On Monday, December 18th, 2024, YCAPS hosted Professor Garren Mulloy of Daito Bunka University for a seminar in Yokosuka on Japan’s strategic ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. This event was part of the YCAPS Community Conversations series. A lively group of participants from the Yokosuka community gathered to enjoy an evening of thought-provoking discussion, accompanied by light refreshments.
Professor Mulloy’s presentation examined the controversial concept of an “Asian NATO,” as proposed by Ishiba Shigeru in a Hudson Institute opinion piece. He explored the challenges and implications of such an idea, particularly in the context of Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) strategy. By analyzing Japan’s approach to alliance-complementing partnerships and multilateral cooperation, Professor Mulloy unpacked whether elements of value could be found beneath the provocative headline.
The seminar also sparked a robust discussion about Japan’s strategic priorities in the Indo-Pacific, including how Japan might balance assertiveness and diplomacy in its regional engagements. Professor Mulloy invited attendees to consider how these strategies could evolve to better align with Japan’s goals and international relations.
Following the presentation, attendees participated in an engaging question-and-answer session to delve deeper into the topic and exchange ideas in an open and collaborative environment.
YCAPS extends its heartfelt gratitude to Professor Mulloy for delivering such an engaging and thought-provoking presentation. We look forward to hosting more captivating events in the Community Conversations series in 2025, continuing to foster meaningful dialogue on critical regional and global issues!