Tokyo and Washington celebrated the 60th anniversary of their security partnership on Jan. 19, honoring a bond that has let Japan find prosperity in the aftermath of World War II. But the rise of inward-looking nationalism worldwide could threaten this relationship. Now is the time to reevaluate the alliance and discuss the course the two countries should take in the coming years.
The protection of its citizens is one of the most important duties for any nation, which makes bolstering defensive capabilities a priority. But Japan, the only country to experience a nuclear bombing, does not have the option of taking up nuclear arms itself. Japan can do only so much on its own, and the country would be far more secure with others on its side.
