The East Asian region surrounding Okinawa is changing at a dizzying pace, as rising tensions in the neighboring Taiwan Strait dramatically alter the security situation. The revision of Japan’s Three Security Documents in December, the proposed increase in defense allocations, and the strengthening of the US-Japanese alliance announced at the 2+2 meeting in January—all of these signify the intensification of deterrence efforts in Japan’s southwest.

The risk that bases in Okinawa will be targeted and damaged may be further heightened in the future. Local residents are also increasingly anxious about the increased military presence and the increased frequency of military exercises. Okinawa’s unique geostrategic location makes it the cornerstone of the US-Japan alliance. Widespread discontent among the Okinawan population could signal instability in this vital alliance.

On the other hand, plans are underway for the re-alignment of Marine Corps stationed in Okinawa. Against this backdrop, many voices in Okinawa are calling for persistent dialogue and diplomatic efforts that do not rely solely on deterrence. To ensure that the US-Japanese alliance remains strong and stable, everyone must now heed the voice of the people of Okinawa. Governor Tamaki, on his first visit to the US in three years, will use the opportunity granted by this symposium to engage in dialogue with US experts and to personally convey the situation in Okinawa.