Friends of Japan abroad understand why Japanese politicians often assume a low profile in international relations. When they don't — as when paying much-publicized official visits to Yasukuni Shrine or taking a recalcitrant position on whaling — they attract criticism.

Japan has nevertheless managed since World War II to produce a number of prime ministers with personality who knew how to get on with foreign politicians, and to ensure that due account is taken of Japanese interests and that Japan exercises its rightful role in the world.

Japanese prime ministers of international acclaim over the past 60 years have included Shigeru Yoshida, Eisaku Sato, Yasuhiro Nakasone and Junichiro Koizumi. Others such as Hayato Ikeda, Nobusuke Kishi, Kakuei Tanaka and Takeo Fukuda, did achieve some international recognition, but their impact was limited.