Note to myself for an article of the Economist about Japan's diplomacy.
On the surface, it appears hard to see an improvement in strained relationship between Japan and other East Asian countries. This week, over 150 politicians showed their respect to Yasukuni shrine during the spring festival, where Japan's war dead and convicted war criminal are honoured. Barack Obama became first American president who pledged to include in it's defence obligation Senkaku which is uninhabited islands also claimed by China. But increasing diplomatic activities are implying the relationship may become constructive than others think.
There are many common things among Japan and South Korea. Both are democratic and American allies. Even Mr Abe visited Yasukuni last year with belief that Japan does not need to apologies for the past, President Park Geun-hye indicated her acceptance for meeting with Mr Abe under Obama's suggestion.
Recently Mr Abe clarified his position that he stands by Japan's past expression of remorse for the war and comfort women. Senior diplomas from both sides had meeting in Seoul for discussion of comfort women.
Japan has aimed that the South Korean government stop inflaming anti-Japan protests or anit-Japan third country such as China. Both governments are also seeking to put aside territorial dispute over Takeshima/Dokdo island. In June 2015, it is 50th anniversary of the two countries' friendship treaty. If no progress can be seen, this would be diplomatic disaster for Ms Park as it is his farther who signed the treaty as South Korea's former dictator.
Dispute between Japan and China seems less optimistic. Even though Senkaku islands have been part of Japan for over a century, China has challenged Japan's control. It also declared 'air-defence identification zone' over the East China seas.
Recently, however, China's leaders have toned down their approach. It is reported that the number of incursions by Chinese coastguard has decreased dramatically. Also Xi Jingping, general secretary of the Communist Party, visited Japan and met Mr Abe in secret. In early May, a group of Japanese lawmakers are heading to Beijing.
There is another new situation appeared. North Korea desires to get closer to Japan to gain it's sponsor under difficult circumstance that China is getting on with South Korea. The talks for abducted Japanese citizen in 1970s - 80s is priority. It is said that a number of abductees are still alive. Mr Abe will claim a breakthrough to progress in the issue of the abduction even if North Korea conducts a nuclear test.
A majority of South Korean citizen prefer better relations with Japan. Mr Abe's private side is nationalist ideologue with revisionist view, but he also understands his personal ideology is not necessarily agreed with Japan's interest. He didn't visit Yasukuni during the spring festival. Soi far Japan's leader as a prime minster is superior to his private face.