IHJ Roundtable
IHJ Policy Roundtable 2025
[Event Report] “Navigating a New Cold War: Japan and the Asia-Pacific in an Era of Strategic Rivalry?”— API Roundtable with Sir Robin Niblett from Chatham House (the Royal Institute of International Affairs), United Kingdom
[Event Report] API Roundtable with Sir Robin Niblett
The Asia Pacific Initiative (API) held a roundtable on October 14th, 2025 welcoming Sir Robin Niblett, Distinguished Fellow and former Director and Chief Executive of Chatham House, United Kingdom.
In his opening remarks, Sir Niblett analyzed the shifting balance of power in the Asia-Pacific and highlighted several key themes. He first contrasted the Asia-Pacific and European security landscapes, noting Europe’s more established security and defense frameworks compared to the relative institutional fluidity of Asia. This divergence, he suggested, may have profound implications for Japan’s strategic positioning.
He also addressed the potential impact of U.S. foreign policy under a second Trump presidency and beyond 2028, emphasizing how changes in Washington could affect alliance structures and regional security. Against this backdrop, Sir Niblett discussed the evolving role of China, the strategic importance of a potential Taiwan contingency, and the need for regional actors to pursue diverse pathways to secure stability and prosperity. He further stressed the importance of Japanese leadership in fostering regional security and economic cooperation.
Looking beyond Asia, Sir Niblett underscored the importance of Europe–Japan cooperation, especially in light of the growing geopolitical and geo-economic contest between the U.S. and China.
In the second half of the session, API experts engaged in a lively discussion with Sir Niblett, offering a rare opportunity to exchange perspectives between Euro-centric and Japan-centric strategic viewpoints. Topics included the resilience of the rules-based order, alliance management, and the potential for deeper transregional collaboration.
API extends its sincere appreciation to Sir Niblett for sharing his insights and contributing to a stimulating and timely discussion on one of the most critical strategic issues facing Japan and the wider region today.
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