The election o f Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency has brought surprise and uncertainty to the world, and Japan and the Asia-Pacific region are no exception.

Given American interests in the region during a time of increasing tension, it is vital that Trump communicate where his administration stands on key economic and defense issues affecting Tokyo and the broader region.

Providing clarity in the following areas would lessen chances of miscalculations by allies and adversaries, instill confidence in stakeholders and help the new administration take advantage of new opportunities that changes of leadership bring.