IHJ Roundtable
IHJ Policy Roundtable 2026
[Event Report] IHJ Policy Roundtable — “The Dynamics of Structural Dependence in Advanced Technology Infrastructure”
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The International House of Japan (IHJ) convened an IHJ Policy Roundtable with Dr. Kimitake Nakamura, Director-General for Disarmament, Non-Proliferation and Science Department (Ambassador) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. The roundtable explored the theme, “The Dynamics of Structural Dependence in Advanced Technology Infrastructure.”
Dr. Nakamura examined how structural dependence among states is created and reinforced through advanced technology infrastructure amid intensifying geoeconomic competition. Drawing on his recent research, he analyzed the cases of cloud infrastructure, nuclear power, and large language models (LLMs), highlighting how dependence emerges through technological lock-in, operational practices, and institutional arrangements.
Participants exchanged views on how countries, including Japan, can preserve strategic autonomy while managing dependence on critical technologies such as AI and cloud systems. The discussion covered a wide range of issues, including the costs associated with technological development and adoption; the challenges of achieving a risk-free environment and the potential for mitigating risks through technological diversification; lessons from historical experiences with once-emerging technologies; the importance of cultivating human capital; and the applicability of existing analytical frameworks for assessing infrastructural vulnerabilities and risks.
The roundtable provided a valuable opportunity to deepen understanding of the interplay between advanced technology, geoeconomics, and international cooperation. IHJ extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Nakamura for sharing his insights and contributing to a stimulating discussion.
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