Tokyo:A prominent Japanese scholar has expressed skepticism about the likelihood of a significant summit between North Korea and the United States taking place this year. Junya Nishino, a professor of political science at Tokyo's Keio University, indicated that neither side seems prepared for a meeting that would lead to substantial negotiations.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Nishino shared his views during a meeting with Korean reporters in Tokyo. He mentioned that U.S. President Donald Trump has shown interest in meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, but the motivation appears to be more personal than policy-driven. Speculation suggests Trump may consider meeting Kim during his upcoming visit to China for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit.
Nishino emphasized the need for negotiations to follow any potential meeting, stating that the U.S. and North Korea are not currently ready for such discussions. He also addressed the complex relationship between South Korea and Japan, advising that historical issues be managed rather than resolved to maintain stable ties. He credited shuttle diplomacy between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for the steady relationship but warned that constant management is required due to domestic political impacts.
On the contentious issue of the Sado mine memorial ceremony, Nishino acknowledged a significant historical perspective gap between the countries but suggested continued diplomatic efforts could lead to a joint ceremony. Additionally, he discussed South Korea's plans to regain wartime operational control of its troops from the U.S., noting potential security impacts on Japan.
Nishino also touched on the influence of external pressures, particularly from the Trump administration, on Japan and South Korea, highlighting areas like energy and supply chains where cooperation could help stabilize the international order.