Foreword
We are pleased to present this second collection of publications under the Japan-Australia Dialogue and Exchange (JADE) for the Next Generation initiative, a collaboration between the United States Studies Centre and the Japan Foundation.
The second collection of JADE Fellow publications focused on achieving a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, exploring issues ranging from defence, diplomacy, trade, economic security and emerging technology. The authors exchanged views with government officials, experts and business leaders and developed their research ideas and policy recommendations during the study tours to Australia and Japan.
The trips to Australia and Japan coincided with key strategic moments. The Japanese authors visited Australia in August, shortly after Australia selected Japan’s upgraded Mogami-class frigate. The Australian authors visited Tokyo at the same time as President Trump met with newly inaugurated Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae. The timing of the reciprocal visits reinforced the importance of strengthening intellectual and strategic exchanges between Australia and Japan.
This publication arrives in the commemorative year of Australia-Japan relations, the 50th anniversary of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation (or NARA treaty). We will continue the JADE initiative to contribute to developing the next generation of leaders who will serve as the intellectual infrastructure that supports the elevation of bilateral relations.
Dr Michael J. Green
Chief Executive Officer, United States Studies Centre
Dr Lavina Lee
Director, Foreign Policy and Defence, United States Studies Centre