1. INTRODUCTION

Over the past five decades, ASEAN-Japan relations have thrived on a foundation of mutually beneficial cooperation and shared interests. This partnership has matured into a multifaceted collaboration deeply rooted in a common commitment to friendship, mutual understanding and trust across cultural, linguistic, and historical differences.

The alignment between ASEAN and Japan, notably demonstrated in the Joint Statement on Cooperation on ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific adopted at the 23rd ASEAN-Japan Summit in 2020, underscores a shared interest in shaping the region's future. While approaches and priorities may vary, both sides find common ground through a reaffirmation of key values such as an open rules-based order and a multilateral trading system.

Japan's pivotal role in supporting ASEAN's regional integration efforts is complimented by the significance of ASEAN as Japan’s vital partner for economic development and strategic engagement in Southeast Asia. Economically, Japan stands as ASEAN's fourth-largest trading partner and was the fifth-largest source of foreign direct investment in 2023. This robust economic relationship is bolstered by Japan's commitment to intensify economic cooperation at the grassroots level, including substantial investments in fostering people-to-people connections and research networks.

The establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) in September 2023 marked a significant milestone, reaffirming the commitment of both ASEAN and Japan to deepen their long-standing relations. The subsequent ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit held in December 2023 with the theme “Trusted Partners” highlighted the enduring partnership based on shared values, mutual respect, and common interests.

Japan's unique strength lies in its commitment to understanding and respecting diverse perspectives, a trait that aligns seamlessly with ASEAN cultural norms and values. This approach has earned Japan the moniker of a “courteous power”, as it prioritizes respectful listening and collaboration with Southeast Asian partners, eschewing assertive influence-seeking tactics in the process. Scholars have further posited that Japan may indeed be the leading external partner in nurturing ASEAN and bolstering the broader multilateral framework crucial for maintaining ASEAN's central role in the region. Consequently, Japan has not only emerged as one of the region's top economic, security, and diplomatic partners but also gained the reputation of being the region's most trusted partner.