[November 3, 2015] The hostile and unfriendly relationship among nations in Asia is persistent and historical. Yet despite all obstacles, key leaders of South Korea, Japan, and China have taken measures to resolving regional cooperation; providing a positive step for Asian leadership in the region. This may seem unimportant for Westerners who don’t appreciate the rich history of these countries and that would be a classic mistake.
The fact that they are high-level meetings is a step that shows an example of what good leadership can do. Economically, all three countries can expect to gain a great deal and their security will be improved as well. It doesn’t take much to derail such cooperation and that is what happened three years ago when territorial disputes and the downplaying of Japan’s military atrocities during World War II interrupted.1
“Through trilateral cooperation I believe that we will contribute to the peace and prosperity and security of not only our three countries but the region and the international community.” – Park Guen-hye, South Korean President
Westerners simply have no appreciation for the difficulties that these leaders have overcome. Just look at the recent disagreements in the United States over the symbolism of the Confederate Flag. While this sparks protests and has influenced the U.S. presidential election cycle, it pales when compared to the issues in East Asia.
All three senior Asian leaders agreed that there needs to be a mutual understanding regarding recent history and resolution to the matter. But what they agree to most is that it should not stand in the way of regional economic and security cooperation. Conspicuously absent is North Korea, an ally of China, which continues to remain uncooperative with nearly all nations.
For us that study senior leadership in the world and at home, this should be something that we follow. It would be of benefit if the media would dig a little deeper and publish more details on the cultural issues and obstacles that hinder their cooperative efforts. An interview of each leader regarding this would add to our understanding and provide some lessons for us to put into our leadership rucksack.
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