The past week was crucial for Japan’s government and business communities. On Sept. 22, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in New York, followed two days later by a U.S.-China summit in Washington between Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Ahead of the U.S.-China summit, there were concerns in Tokyo that Japan and the United States might have somewhat different priorities. Japan sought to confirm a shared understanding not only on the East and South China seas but also on peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait — specifically, a position that would not tolerate attempts by China to alter the status quo.

The U.S. side, meanwhile, appeared particularly focused on reaching at least a minimal understanding with China on the risks posed by artificial intelligence and their implications for military security.

Washington also had an interest in such issues as critical-mineral supply chains, including rare earths, as well as tariffs and trade. In Japan, however, there were concerns that the Taiwan issue and U.S. arms sales to Taiwan might receive lower priority.

As it turned out, the Japanese and U.S. leaders had a frank exchange on China, including economic security, semiconductors and artificial intelligence, and the meeting reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-Japan alliance.

But my focus today lies elsewhere.

At the U.S.-China summit, neither side was likely to make major........

© The Japan Times