Some media in the United States expressed concern that the new Japanese government to be headed by Democratic Party of Japan leader Yukio Hatoyama may pursue a more independent foreign policy. The DPJ's election platform and a recent article by Mr. Hatoyama that appeared in The New York Times Web site edition are the reason.
The DPJ's platform calls "close and equal" allied ties between Japan and the U.S. the foundation of Japan's diplomacy and says that to create such ties, the party will "establish an autonomous diplomatic strategy and then actively fulfill Japan's responsibility by dividing roles with the U.S."
In his article, Mr. Hatoyama wrote, "How should Japan maintain its political and economic independence and protect its national interest when caught between the United States . . . and China?" He also said, "Of course, the Japan-U.S. security pact will continue to be the cornerstone of Japanese diplomatic policy."