The Particularity of UAE-Japan Relations: How Japan-UAE Relations Stand Out in the Arab Landscape

Introduction

The relationship between Japan and the Arab world, and especially the United Arab Emirates (UAE), represents a convergence of politics, history, energy, and strategic diplomacy on the international stage. Indeed, UAE-Japan relations have been good and strong for now more than half a century (Sekiguchi, 2022). This paper examines the political nature of Japan's engagements in the Middle East, a region that has played a big role in shaping Japan's foreign policy, economic trajectory, and strategic imperatives both locally and on the global stage. This examination begins with a look at the historical context, giving an overview of Japan's relationship the Middle East. From its pre-oil era interactions with the Arabian Peninsula, where trade and cultural exchanges set the stage for deeper engagements, to the nascent days of Japan-UAE relations, it then looks at the evolution of a partnership that has grown for both states. This examination allows for a deep dive into the political factors that illuminate the special nature of Japan-UAE ties. It reveals a relationship that is at once rooted in mutual interests, and that transcends transactional diplomacy. It is a relationship best characterized by shared visions and mutual respect.

However, what sets the Japan-UAE relationship apart from Japan's ties with other Arab nations is, ultimately, the energy nexus. The fact is that Japan's post-war economic miracle came with a price: a profound dependence on Middle Eastern oil (Nippon, 2019). Yet, this energy vulnerability has actually been a cornerstone of Japan-UAE collaborations, driving both nations towards innovative solutions, from nuclear energy to solar power. The UAE's own aspirations to diversify its energy sector have found a found support in Japan, for they share similar goals (UAE, 2022). Thus, between the two states have come many collaborations that are as much about technology as they are about geopolitics. Therefore, this paper offers a view of Japan's engagements in the Arab world, spotlighting its ties with the UAE. Through the lens of politics, history, energy, and strategic diplomacy, it shows a relationship based on international cooperation, mutual respect, shared goals, and grand ambitions for the coming century.

Overview of Japan's Engagement in the Middle East

Before analyzing the record of UAE-Japan relations, this section provides a brief overview of the history. The main themes are introduced in the sub-sections below. Following this overview, a more detailed analysis of these relations is given for each sub-section.

Pre-Oil Era Interactions

The pre-oil era interactions between Japan and the Arabian Peninsula were characterized by political outreach, mutual curiosity, exploratory diplomacy, a desire for more power on the worlds stage, and the need to extend feelers through a complicated geopolitical landscape. During this period, these interactions were limited in terms of scope and depth compared to the post-oil era. However, they did set the initial stage for the much larger relationship that would develop in the latter half of the 20th century. The foundations laid during this period were solidly based on mutual respect and understanding, and it was this solid respect that helped continue to help influence Japan-Arabian Peninsula relations to this day.

Early Days of Japan-UAE Relations

The foundation of Japan-UAE relations can be traced back to the 1960s, shortly after the discovery of oil in the Emirates. While the initial interactions were driven by Japan's growing energy needs, the relationship quickly transcended mere economic considerations. Japan recognized the strategic importance of the UAE as a stable partner in a volatile region and sought to cultivate a deeper diplomatic relationship (Emirates, 2022).

Unlike some Western powers, Japan did not have a colonial legacy in the Middle East, which allowed it to approach the region without the historical baggage that often complicated relations for European nations (Britannica, 2023). This neutrality, combined with Japan's non-interventionist foreign policy, made it an attractive partner for many Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE.

Special Nature of Japan-UAE Ties

The Japan-UAE relationship stands out as unique in the story of Japan's engagement with the Arab world (Walia, 2020). Japan has certainly maintained good relations with many Arab nations, but its ties with the UAE have been strong due to a strategic importance rooted in political-economic agreement. The UAE, with its vast oil reserves and strategic location, became a linchpin in Japan's Middle Eastern strategy, and together they have moved to look beyond a relationship based in oil to one established by a future moored in change.

Comparison with Other Arab Nations

Historically, Japan's ties with other Arab nations, such as Oman, Kuwait, and Jordan, have been driven by a mix of energy security and geopolitical considerations. For instance, Japan's relationship with Oman was cemented in the 1970s and 1980s, primarily due to Oman's role as a reliable oil supplier (Japan Times, 2022). Similarly, Japan's ties with Kuwait were strengthened after the Gulf War, with Japan playing a significant role in the post-war reconstruction efforts (KUNA, 2021).

However, while Japan has maintained friendly relations with many Arab nations, its relationship with the UAE stands out for its depth and breadth.Unlike other relationships that were primarily transactional in nature, Japan-UAE ties have evolved into a comprehensive partnership encompassing many different fields, including energy cooperation, defense and security.

Pre-Oil Era Interactions Between Japan and the Arabian Peninsula

The relationship between Japan and the Arabian Peninsula in the pre-oil era is a fascinating study of two regions with distinct histories, cultures, and geopolitical considerations. The modern narrative of Japan-Arabian Peninsula relations is dominated by oil and energy security, the pre-oil interactions were characterized by exploratory diplomacy and respectful cultural exchanges.

Japan's Geopolitical Landscape in the Pre-Oil Era

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Japan was undergoing a transformative phase. The Meiji Restoration of 1868 marked the end of the Tokugawa shogunate and the beginning of Japan's rapid modernization and westernization (Heartland Japan, 2020). Japan's primary focus during this period was on consolidating its position in East Asia and countering Western imperialist ambitions in the region (Lipman, 2003). The Middle East, including the Arabian Peninsula, was not a primary focus for Japan, but it was not entirely off Tokyo's radar either.

Japan's interest in the Arabian Peninsula during this period can be understood in the context of its broader strategy to counterbalance Western influence. The Middle East was a region where European powers, particularly the British Empire, had significant interests (Smith, 2022). Japan in many ways wanted to be a global power, and it saw opportunities in engaging with regions where it could potentially offer an alternative to Western dominance.

The Arabian Peninsula's Political Landscape

The Arabian Peninsula during the late 19th and early 20th centuries was a combination of tribal confederations, emirates, and sheikhdoms (Britannica, 2022). The Ottoman Empire had a great deal of influence over much of the region, but its grip was not as powerful as it would have liked (Kiger, 2023). The British Empire saw some weakness and began to plot against the Ottoman Empire, for the British also had significant interests in the region, mainly because it wanted to safeguard its maritime routes to India (Smith, 2022).

In this geopolitical environment, the Arabian Peninsula's leaders were keen to establish diplomatic ties with non-imperial powers, offering them a degree of leverage against both the Ottomans and the British. Japan, with its rising global profile and absence of direct colonial ambitions in the Middle East, was not seen as a considerable threat.

Exploratory Diplomacy and Cultural Exchanges

The initial interactions between Japan and the Arabian Peninsula were tentative and exploratory only. Japan became a member of the League of Nations, which promptly put it on the worlds stage (Columbia, 2022). Japans contact, however, with the Arab world was limited. There are no records of diplomatic interaction at this point in time. Essentially, what is known is that Japan and the Arabian Peninsula had no direct conflicts or contentious issues, but both had a sense that the broader geopolitical environment posed challenges (Columbia, 2022; Kiger, 2023). Japan had many political issues to deal with at home, however; and the Ottoman Empire was caught in World War I and would soon come to an end. The Arab world would be divided up among the European nations, mainly Britain and France, and cultural exchange between the Middle East and the East would have to wait for some time more.

Tracing the Early Days of Japan-UAE Relations

The early days of Japan-UAE relations were not as extensively documented as the modern era, but they still remain important to know in order to have an understanding of the depth and resilience of the ties that bind the two nations today. The foundation of this relationship was laid in a world that was vastly different from today, with both nations facing their own set of unique challenges and aspirations. The one thing they had in common was that they came out of World War II vastly different from what they were before. Both the Arab states and Japan had to struggle with becoming a new identity.

The Emergence of the UAE

The United Arab Emirates emerged as a unified political entity and came into officially recognized existence in 1971 (History, 2022). Before this, the region was a collection of Trucial States under British protection (National Archives, 2023). The decision to form a union was driven by a combination of the impending British withdrawal and the realization among the emirates that unity would provide strength and stability (Barrett, 2021). However, there were some challenges in early days, such as border disputes, economic disparities, and the overarching need for nation-building.

Japan's Post-War Rebuilding and Energy Needs

Post-World War II Japan was geared toward rapid economic growth and modernization (Shiohara, 2023). The devastation of the war had left Japan with a pressing need to rebuild its economy and infrastructure. Central to Japan's economic miracle was its burgeoning industrial sector, which had an insatiable appetite for energy. At first, Japan advanced under post-war US occupation, but eventually Japan emerged from under the US as an ally or partner with the Americans (Daily History, 2023). In the following decades, it began to look to the Middle East to satisfy its limited domestic energy resources. It was in this time of rebuilding that Japan the Arab States began to become closer.

Laying the Foundations of a Relationship

The discovery of oil in the UAE in the 1960s coincided with Japan's increasing demand for energy (Gulf News, 2010; Mosk, 2022). Thus, the initial interactions were driven by this economic imperative, but still both nations quickly realized the potential for a deeper, larger relationship.

For the UAE, Japan represented a non-imperial, technologically advanced nation that could assist in its developmental goals. Japan's expertise in areas like infrastructure development, technology, and urban planning was invaluable for the UAE's ambitious nation-building projects (Arab News, 2023).

Japan, on the other hand, saw in the UAE a stable and reliable partner in a region that was often characterized by volatility. The UAE's pragmatic approach to international relations, beginning with its own region, combined with its strategic location and vast energy reserves, made it an attractive partner for Japan.

Navigating Political Needs and Issues

The early days of Japan-UAE relations were not without their challenges. The UAE eventually wanted to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil. Japan, with its technological prowess and experience in economic diversification, was an ideal partner in this endeavor. However, the UAE also wanted to ensure that its relationship with Japan did not come at the expense of its ties with other major powers, especially its Arab neighbors and the West (Walia, 2020).

Japan had to balance its relationship with the UAE with its broader Middle East policy as well as its relationship with the US, which was tense due to other Middle East conflicts between Israel and Palestine (Yoshioka, 2018). Japan did not want to cause problems with its Arab partners by siding with the US and Israel against Palestine, but at the same...

…solar energy offers a path to energy independence. Collaborations, such as technology transfers or joint research initiatives, can bolster a nation's energy security, reducing its geopolitical vulnerabilities. Plus, collaborative solar projects can strengthen bilateral ties. For instance, when a technologically advanced nation partners with a sun-rich country to set up solar farms, it's not just an economic venture but also a diplomatic gesture, fostering goodwill and mutual trust. As for leadership, collaborative efforts in solar energy can enhance a country's standing in global forums. Leading international solar initiatives or hosting global renewable energy summits can position countries as champions of the global energy transition, influencing international energy policies and norms.

Nuclear Energy: The Quest for Clean Baseload Power

Nuclear energy has been around for decades, but its role as a clean energy source has gained prominence in recent years as climate change has taken front and center stage around the world. Collaborative efforts in nuclear energy research and deployment are politically significant because of non-proliferation concerns, regional balances, regulatory frameworks, and safety issues. Nuclear energy collaborations often come with stringent non-proliferation agreements. Countries with advanced nuclear technologies are cautious about sharing them, given the dual-use nature of nuclear technology. Collaborative agreements in this sector are, therefore, not just energy deals but also political pacts, emphasizing trust and mutual security concerns. On top of this, the deployment of nuclear energy in a region can shift geopolitical balances. Collaborations in nuclear energy can be seen as endorsements, signaling support for a nation's regional aspirations and strategic ambitions. Additionally, since the Fukushima disaster in 2011, safety concerns around nuclear energy have only become stronger. Collaborative efforts now emphasize shared safety standards, joint regulatory frameworks, and mutual oversight mechanisms. These collaborations are as much about political reassurances as they are about technological advancements.

Comparison: Japan's Relations with Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, and the UAE

Japan's engagement with the Arab world is a big picture of strategic partnerships, economic collaborations, and diplomatic endeavors. Japan's ties with countries like Oman, Kuwait, and Jordan are significant in their own right, but its relationship with the UAE stands out in several dimensions. This comparison, especially from a political perspective, underscores the nuances and depth of Japan's Middle Eastern strategy.

Japan and Oman: Maritime and Energy Diplomacy

Oman has a strategic location overseeing the Strait of Hormuz, and holds maritime significance for Japan (Oman Report, 2022). Given that a significant portion of Japan's oil imports traverse this strait, ensuring its uninterrupted access is paramount. Japan's relationship with Oman is characterized by energy diplomacy and maritime cooperation. The two countries have engaged in joint maritime exercises and shared intelligence to ensure the security of shipping lanes. However, while the relationship is cordial and strategic, it doesn't encompass the multifaceted depth seen in Japan-UAE ties.

Japan and Kuwait: Post-War Reconstruction and Energy Ties

Kuwait holds a special place in Japan's Middle Eastern engagements, especially in the context of the Gulf War. Post the war, Japan played a significant role in Kuwait's reconstruction efforts, both in terms of financial aid and infrastructural projects. The energy ties between the two nations are robust, with Kuwait being a major supplier of oil to Japan. However, the relationship, while important, is primarily transactional, centered around energy and economic collaborations.

Japan and Jordan: Diplomatic Engagements and Cultural Exchanges

Jordan, known for its diplomatic role in the Middle East, has a unique relationship with Japan. While not anchored in energy or strategic imperatives, Japan-Jordan ties are marked by cultural exchanges, developmental aid, and diplomatic collaborations. Japan has supported Jordan's peace initiatives and has been involved in various developmental projects in the country. The relationship, while cordial, lacks the strategic depth and breadth seen in Japan's ties with the UAE.

Japan-UAE Relations: A Comprehensive Partnership

When juxtaposed against Japan's relations with Oman, Kuwait, and Jordan, Japan-UAE ties stand out in several dimensions, especially in energy cooperation, defense and security, environmental initiatives, and political dialogue. It is true that Japan's energy ties with other Arab nations are significant, but its relationship with the UAE transcends mere oil imports. The two nations collaborate on renewable energy projects, nuclear energy research, and energy security strategies. The UAE's role in Japan's energy matrix is not just as a supplier but also as a strategic partner. Japan-UAE defense and security ties are also more robust than between Japan and other Arab states. The two nations have engaged in joint military exercises, shared intelligence, and collaborated on regional security initiatives. This level of defense collaboration is unparalleled in Japan's relations with other Arab nations.

Plus, Japan and the UAE are at the forefront of environmental diplomacy. Collaborative projects in areas like water conservation, desertification control, and sustainable urban development underscore the depth of their environmental partnership. Added to this are the political dialogues between Japan and the UAE are comprehensive, covering regional geopolitics, global challenges, and shared visions for the future. The high-level diplomatic engagements between the two nations are more frequent and encompassing than Japan's interactions with Oman, Kuwait, or Jordan.

Conclusion

From the early days of pre-oil interactions on the Arabian Peninsula to the forward-looking partnership of today, Japan's relationship with the UAE and other Arab states in the Middle East reveals many practical and political characteristics. Central to this relationship is the energy nexus. Japan's economic resurgence post-World War II brought with it a profound dependence on Middle Eastern oil, particularly from nations like the UAE. This energy interdependence, while initially transactional, transformed into a strategic partnership, with both nations collaborating on diversifying energy sources, from nuclear to solar. The UAE's vision of an energy-diverse future found resonance with Japan, leading to collaborations that transcended mere economic imperatives. Yet, what truly distinguishes Japan-UAE ties from Japan's relations with other Arab nations is the depth of their partnership. Beyond energy, the two nations have forged ties in defense, environmental initiatives, and cultural exchanges. This comprehensive engagement, marked by high-level diplomatic dialogues and shared geopolitical interests, sets the Japan-UAE relationship apart. In juxtaposing Japan's ties with…