Peaceful Coexistence with China −Considering China’s Response to the Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

Abstract

By Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the post-Cold War international order has come to an end, and what kind of international order will be formed in the future is expected to depend largely on China's behavior. How can we live in harmony with China, which does not blame Russia for the war in Ukraine but blames the United States? To answer this question, first, I will identify what kind of international order and international society China desires and what China is doing to achieve it. Then, it is revealed that the reason China does not condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine even though it is inconsistent with the international order that China defends, is because opposition to the US-led international order is much more important to China. Based on the above, in order to coexist peacefully with China, it is necessary for Japan to engage in substantive dialogue with China as well as to strengthen deterrence. This is because strengthening deterrence is intended to prevent war and enhance bargaining power. In dialogue with China, it is important not only to point out China's worrisome trends, but also to discuss closing the mutual perception gap, the possibility of building a world of peaceful coexistence and working together on global issues. Coordination with the United States is also important so that the United States does not act hastily.