On 13 November 2023, the Modern War Institute at West Point hosted the Sasakawa Peace Foundation for an important discussion about the US-Japan military alliance and security concerns in the Indo-Pacific.
The Sasakawa Peace Foundation was created to address he diverse and complicated issues that human society is encountering in the 21st century. The Japan US Military Program (JUMP) is a collaborative effort between Sasakawa Peace Foundation USA, the Embassy of Japan in the United States, and the National Association of Japan-America Societies. Launched in April 2015, the program connects past and present service members, families, and government civilians who have served in Japan. Through social networks and events, JUMP builds relationships and provides opportunities for service members to engage with each other. JUMP provides a powerful foundation for sustaining the solid alliance and relationship that exists between the U.S. and Japan.
MWI and Sasakawa partnered on an academic panel titled “The Importance of the U.S.-Japan Security Alliance in the Indo-Pacific,” which underscored the pivotal role played by the enduring partnership between the United States and Japan in shaping the security dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region. This alliance, which has evolved since the end of World War II, has not only provided a cornerstone for regional stability but has also facilitated economic prosperity and the promotion of democratic values. The discussion explored the historical evolution of the alliance, its contemporary significance in the context of geopolitical challenges, and its broader implications for regional security, as well as addressing emerging issues such as China’s rise and regional security architecture. By analyzing the multifaceted aspects of this alliance, the panel shed light on its far-reaching impact and its role in maintaining peace and stability in one of the world’s most strategically significant regions.