There is growing talk of “disappearing Japan”, particularly in America. On Wall Street, I noticed in a recent visit that the presence of Japanese businessmen has faded. In Washington, congressional friends informed me, Japan is no longer on the radar screen. Now China attracts American attention, and is the focus of seminars and symposiums.

In Japan, there is a new assertiveness. A growing call within certain political circles for greater assertiveness in relations with east Asia has aroused apprehension in some quarters. China seemed a poor nation just five years ago. Now a perceived giant on Japan’s doorstep, its activities are received mostly in negative terms. North Korea remains a serious concern. Pyongyang’s recent missile launch provoked uproar in Japan. And territorial tensions persist with South Korea.