台湾：小国の地政学

Lai Ching-te (賴清德)

   Finn Schults & Yuka Sato

   CCGS: Germany & Japan

Email: info@globalculturz.org

(English follows Japanese) 

台湾と中国の間の複雑な政治劇──日本が演じる微妙な役割

台湾海峡180キロメートルを挟んで横たわるのは、近代国家誕生よりも古い政治劇です。断裂した歴史、揺らぐアイデンティティ、くすぶる緊張感。台湾島と中国本土の間で繰り広げられるこの物語を理解するには、歴史の複雑な絡み合い、経済的相互依存、そして国際政治の変わりゆく砂浜をナビゲートする必要があります。その中で、日本は重要ながらも微妙な役割を演じています。

過去が大きく影を落とす

1895年から1945年までの日本による台湾統治は、島に消えない跡を残しました。台湾の人々にとってこの時代の記憶は苦痛を伴うものが多いですが、文化・経済的なつながりも育み、今もなお影響を及ぼしています。日本語、インフラ整備、さらには食文化の一部までもが台湾に残っています。

しかし、この遺産は日本と中国、台湾との関係にも長い影を落としています。中国は過去における日本の行動を疑いの目で見ており、帝国主義的野心の復活を恐れています。こうした歴史的因縁は、日本が台湾海峡問題に関して中立性を保つことを難しくしています。

綱渡り：一中国政策と日本のプラグマティズム

ほとんどの国と同様に、日本も「一中国政策」を順守し、中華人民共和国を中国唯一の合法政府として認めています。しかし、日本は台湾とも非公式な関係を維持しており、広範な経済・文化交流も行っています。このバランスを取る行為は、日本が最大貿易相手国である中国と、地域における重要な経済・戦略的パートナーである台湾の両方と安定した関係を維持しようと模索していることを反映しています。

戦略上の懸念と日米同盟

経済的な考慮を超えて、日本の安全保障上の利益も台湾海峡と密接に絡み合っています。台湾は東シナ海の戦略的な十字路に位置しており、この地域での紛争は重要な航路を乱し、日本のエネルギー安全保障を脅かす可能性があります。さらに、台湾を攻撃された場合に防衛を約束している米国との同盟関係も、日本の立場を複雑にしています。

変わる風景：高まるナショナリズムと移りゆく情勢

中国と台湾の双方でナショナリズムが高まることは、状況をさらに複雑にします。中国では、高まる民族意識と失われた領土奪回の熱望により、台湾との妥協がますます難しくなっています。台湾では、中国統治の影なく育った若い世代は、自己決定への要求をより強く主張しています。

道を切り開く：対話、協力、そして地域の安定

歴史的包袱、経済的相互依存、地政学的現実という複雑な網をナビゲートするには、多面的アプローチが必要です。

• 対話と外交: 北京、台北、東京間のオープンなコミュニケーションと信頼醸成措置は、緊張を緩和し、平和的な解決策を探るために不可欠です。
• 自決権の尊重: 外からの圧力に関係なく、台湾国民が自分たちの未来を決定する権利を認めることは不可欠です。
• 地域協力: すべての関係者が利害を明確に理解した上で協力的な地域秩序を維持することは、紛争防止と安定確保のために最重要です。

パズルにおける日本の役割

この複雑な方程式における日本の役割は依然として重要です。過去のアクションは影を落とし続けますが、日本の経済的・戦略的利益は地域において中国と台湾の両方に結びついています。日本がこの微妙なバランスを巧みに操り、平和的解決と地域の安定を提唱することは、台湾海峡の未来を形作る上で鍵となるでしょう。

結論

台湾海峡問題は単純な解決策のない多面的なドラマです。日本の歴史的つながり、経済的・戦略的懸念、そしてより広範な地政学的状況を理解することは、この未解決の物語の複雑さを理解するために不可欠です。対話、自決権の尊重、地域協力を通じてのみ、関係者たちはすべての人にとって平和で繁栄した未来への道を見出すことができるのです。

この翻訳は元のテキストの内容を忠実に再現し、かつ自然な日本語表現にこだわりました。政治的にデリケートな問題であるため、ニュートラルな表現を心がけ、各方面の視点を考慮しています。

Across the 180-kilometer Taiwan Strait lies a political drama older than the modern world itself. It is a story of fractured history, contested identities, and simmering tensions, playing out between the island of Taiwan and mainland China. To understand this relationship, one must navigate a labyrinth of historical baggage, economic interdependence, and the shifting sands of international politics, with Japan playing a significant, if complex, role.

Japan's Shadow Looms Large

Japan's colonial rule of Taiwan from 1895 to 1945 left an indelible mark on the island. While memories of this period are often painful for Taiwanese people, it also fostered cultural and economic ties that continue to resonate today. The Japanese language, infrastructure projects, and even some culinary traditions remain present in Taiwan

However, this legacy also casts a long shadow on Japan's relationship with both China and Taiwan. China views Japan's past actions with suspicion, fearing any potential revival of its imperial ambitions. This historical baggage complicates Japan's ability to navigate the Taiwan Strait issue with neutrality.

Walking a Tightrope: The One China Policy and Japan's Pragmatism

Like most countries, Japan adheres to the "One China" policy, recognizing the PRC as the sole legitimate government of China. However, Japan also maintains unofficial ties with Taiwan, including extensive economic and cultural exchanges. This balancing act reflects Japan's pragmatism, seeking to maintain stable relations with both China, its largest trading partner, and Taiwan, a vital economic and strategic partner in the region.

Strategic Concerns and the US-Japan Alliance

Beyond economic considerations, Japan's security interests intertwine with the Taiwan Strait. The island sits at a strategic crossroads in the East China Sea, and any conflict there could disrupt vital shipping lanes and threaten Japan's energy security. This, coupled with Japan's alliance with the United States, which has committed to defending Taiwan in case of attack, further complicates Japan's position.

The Evolving Landscape: Rising Nationalism and Shifting Sands

The rise of nationalism in both China and Taiwan further complicates the situation. In China, a growing sense of national pride and a desire to reclaim historical territories make any compromise with Taiwan increasingly difficult. In Taiwan, a younger generation raised without the shadow of Chinese rule is more assertive in its demands for self-determination.

Finding a Path Forward: Dialogue, Cooperation, and Regional Stability

Navigating this complex web of historical baggage, economic interdependence, and geopolitical realities requires a multifaceted approach:

• Dialogue and Diplomacy: Open communication and trust-building measures between Beijing, Taipei, and Tokyo are crucial to de-escalate tensions and explore peaceful solutions.
• Respect for Self-Determination: Recognizing the right of the Taiwanese people to determine their own future is essential, regardless of external pressures.
• Regional Cooperation: Maintaining a cooperative regional order, with a clear understanding of the stakes for all players, is paramount to preventing conflict and ensuring stability.

Japan's Role in the Puzzle

Japan's role in this complex equation remains crucial. While its past actions continue to cast a shadow, its economic and strategic interests in the region tie it to both China and Taiwan. Japan's ability to navigate this delicate balance, advocating for peaceful resolution and regional stability, will be key to shaping the future of the Taiwan Strait.

Conclusion

The Taiwan Strait issue is a multifaceted drama with no easy solutions. Understanding Japan's historical ties, its economic and strategic concerns, and its position within the broader geopolitical landscape is essential to comprehending the complexities of this ongoing saga. Only through dialogue, respect for self-determination, and regional cooperation can the actors involved find a path towards a peaceful and prosperous future for all.

Remember, this is a highly sensitive topic with diverse perspectives. To delve deeper, consider researching specific aspects of the conflict, such as Japan's role in the Cold War, its current security concerns, or its economic ties with Taiwan. Additionally, explore diverse viewpoints from academic sources, news outlets, and individual narratives to gain a more nuanced understanding of this ongoing drama.

I hope this provides a more comprehensive picture of Japan's role in the Taiwan-China relations, taking into account the historical, economic, and strategic factors at play.

Mr. Tokio Hasegawa: His Life and Social Contribution

Mr. Hasegawa along with Bihar CM Hon'ble Nitish Kumar Ji & H.E. Sujan Chinoy Ji

Mr. Masayuki Handa,

Executive Director

Japanese Association of Museums 

世界はいよいよ危機的な局面に入っている。2011 年 3 月 11 日の東日本大震災による福 島原子力発電所事故による災害、世界的な気象異変になる大規模災害の多発、さら に、新型コロナ・ウィルスの世界的大流行。こうした問題はいずれも、人間と自然の 関係、大都市圏に人口が集中する暮らし方について、根本的に再考することが不可欠 になっていることを意味している。 

国際交流基金賞の趣旨は、国際交流に貢献した人物や団体を表彰することだという が、こうした危機的な局面において、国際交流のあり方について根本的なところから 考え直し、これからの時代の国際交流の指針となるような人物や団体に光を当てる必 要があるのではないだろうか。私が、長谷川時夫を推薦するのは、そうした視点から 注目すべき人物だからだ。 

Threats to Cultural Properties

Shuri Castle: Okinawa, Japan

     Michio Matsukubo

               Academic Fellow

CCGS, Fukuoka

E-mail: info@globalculturz.org

In many parts of the globe violence and war-like situations are emerging, and they pose a potential threat to cultural properties. Earlier in Afghanistan and later in Iraq, Syria and other parts of the globe, terrorism was the main cause for destruction of the cultural properties in their respective territories.   

Recently, in countries like France and Japan, it was fire which destroyed Notre Dome and Shuri Castle, respectively. Some times socio-political unrest becomes the root cause of such destructions. The protection, preservation and maitainance of such cultural properties cost millions of dollars all over the world. There is also a debate, whether this huge amount can be utilized for other purposes like eradication of poverty etc. Why cultural properties are so important to be preserved and maintained for the posteriority? 

Cultural properties are, ‘movable or immovable property of great importance to the cultural heritage of every people, such as monuments of architecture, art or history, whether religious or secular; archaeological sites; groups of buildings which, as a whole, are of historical or artistic interest; works of art; manuscripts, books and other objects of artistic, historical or archaeological interest; as well as scientific collections and important collections of books or archives or of reproductions of the property defined above.’ It clearly reflects the importance and necessity of cultural properties. Though there are other issues before humankind but cultural properties too cannot be ignored.

Addressing social unrests, terrorism, natural disasters properly, ensure protection of cultural properties. The world is becoming more violent as dissatisfaction from the governments are on rise. The civilizational and religious clashes are also increasing and makes a potential threat to cultural properties. Saving them is as necessary as anything else. Proper security arrangements, awareness, safety from natural and manmade disasters, socio-political harmony are the key points to avoid threats for these important properties.    

G-20 SUMMIT AT OSAKA: ACHIEVEMENTS, EVALUATION AND FUTURE ACTIONS

Credit: g20.org

 Laura Frank

Research Associate, CCGS

Berlin Chair

E-mail: Info@globalculturz.org

G-20 is a group of twenty powerful nations of the globe, which also includes European Union. In 1999 the group was founded with the aim to promote the international financial stability and a few other issues. Economic cooperation was the key agenda behind its establishment. Its consists of Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Spain is a permanent invitee.

Since then G20 leaders have met thirteen times at different global venues and the summit held in Osaka (Japan) on 28-29 June 2019 was the fourteenth one. The economists have raised the doubts of its achievements and its relevance too. The G20 leaders are divided on several issues and the global character of the G20 is severally hampered in new emerging situations globally. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), US=China Trade tussles, Japan-Korea cultural relations, US-Russia tensions and many other regional issues are more dominant over the global goals. In that case G20 summits just become a mere ceremonial meet without a concrete purpose.

Eight themes were put forth for discussion in Osaka. These were (i) Global Economy, (ii) Trade and Investment, (iii)Innovation, (iv) Environment and Energy, (v) Employment, (vi) Women’s empowerment, (vii) Development and (viii) Health. These were important issues before the global leaders to ensure the global sustainable development. Whereas the US has already moved out of Paris climate accord and has faced criticism, it was expected that there will be hardly any progress to control global warming. The worries expressed by Japanese PM Shinzo Abe through the press release is quite obvious, ‘The world economy still faces downside risks due to trade tensions. The G20 shared the determination to take further actions and lead strong economic growth while paying attention to such circumstances.’TheUS-China trade war is, as experts say, is not going to settle till Mr. Trump is in office. Chinese BRI project is boycotted by India, the most accelerating economy of the world. BREXIT has created a big trouble for European Union and Germany is passing through a phase of sluggish growth.

The preamble of the summit declaration suggests that there is a will to get united and make the world a prosperous, terror free, energy secured, gender justice and healthy place for every human individual. It says, 1. We, the Leaders of the G20, met in Osaka, Japan on 28-29 June 2019 to make united efforts to address major global economic challenges. We will work together to foster global economic growth, while harnessing the power of technological innovation, in particular digitalization, and its application for the benefit of all.

2. Building on work done by previous presidencies, we will strive to create a virtuous cycle of growth by addressing inequalities and realize a society where all individuals can make use of their full potential. We are resolved to build a society capable of seizing opportunities, and tackling economic, social and environmental challenges, presented today and in the future, including those of demographic change.

3. We will further lead efforts to foster development and address other global challenges to pave the way toward an inclusive and sustainable world, as envisioned in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’.

One journalist said at the venue, Honesty is prime, rest will follow.

For us, Center for Culture & Global Studies, it is satisfactory that there is special mention of promoting tourism and strengthening cultural diplomacy. The Declaration states in its article ’24. Tourism accounts for a significant share of the world's GDP and is expected to continue to be an important driver of global economic growth. We will work to maximize the sector's contribution to the creation of quality jobs and entrepreneurship, especially for women and youth and in the creative industry; economic resilience and recovery; the preservation of natural resources through sustainable tourism planning and management; and the achievement of inclusive and sustainable development’.

We appreciate such endeavors of G20 leaders.

"We will rebuild it. All together."

      Sayu Sekiguchi

The Open University of Japan

              (Hoso Daigaku)

       Faculty of Liberal Arts

E-mail: info@globalculturz.org

Many a time we have seen the destruction by fire. There were several incidents in Edo-Japan that fire engulfed towns and properties of cultural and historical importance. The human civilization moves ahead despite natural calamities and man-made disasters. The fear of apocalypse is very much rooted in Japanese society. In modern history of Japan the great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and bombardment on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 changed the overall experience of life and death among common people of Japan. It is the great human will that inspires to survive and rebuild.

Recently, Notre Dame, Paris came under the grip of severe fire. There was quick response from the global community and culture and art lover. Many nations, including Japan, pledged to contribute sumptuous amount of money to rebuild the 850 years old historic site.  The process of reconstruction will start soon but it may take a decade or so to complete the work. As CBS News reported, ‘Bells tolled at cathedrals across the French capital exactly 48 hours after the fire began. Cecile Deleville can hardly look at the destruction she has worshipped there for 44 years’. There are many deep memories in people’s mind about Notre Dame.

We visit places not only for businesses but for nature and cultural assets too. A building is not just a structure. It becomes live in our heart. Notre Dame, the Great  Pyramids, Taj Mahal and many more are photographed and kept as a memories not only in our albums but in our hearts as well. Here is a sigh of relief. USA Today states, ‘Officials said other treasures inside the cathedral, such as a dozen large paintings of religious scenes and huge bells made famous by the bell-ringer in Victor Hugo's 1831 novel "The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” were also spared, after a plan to safeguard heritage was quickly put into action’. Millions of people across the world are still stunned with this fire.  It would be a big challenge to rebuild the cathedral. Despite money, other skills are required to rebuilding. Kare reported, The roof cannot be rebuilt exactly as it was because "we don't, at the moment, have trees on our territory of the size that were cut in the 13th century," said Bertrand de Feydeau, vice president of preservation group Fondation du Patrimoine, adding the roof restoration work would have to use new technology.

Also of concern, Feydeau said, is the organ, "a very fragile instrument, especially its pipes."

 There is pain and sorrow on this happening. Investigators are doing their job. Government is putting its best effort. UNESCO and other global agencies are seeking cooperation in rebuilding. At the end we have lost a historic treasure, which cannot be seen and loved anymore.   

Life is Delicious, Food is Precious

Life is Great in All Ages 

               Yuki Sakurai

Tokyo University of Agriculture & Technology, Tokyo, Japan

              ( Diet Researcher )

E-mail: info@globalculturz.org

In various world indices the age considered to be old is different. In some countries, it is 62 whereas in others it goes up to 90. Life in the posterior part brings many psychological and social complexities. To cope with this situation one has to be joyous and stress free and the most essential thing is to eat nutritious food. As we move in the old age, we are favored in public places, with in the family and like that though there are always exceptions.  

We have enough time for ourselves and for our hobbies. Spare time is to contribute to society academically. There are a lot of recreational activities on screens and off the screen. Travelling and tracking provide a refreshing experience. The localized food and drinks give a different taste of life. To explore the nature for a longer time is quite charming. One can sit with the side of a sea-shore or watching snow flakes without any specific reason.    

If a person has commercial orientation, that can also be done. One can open a small café or a bookshop or something like that. An earning in old age is good for self and decreases the burden of the family. Earning and hobbies can go together and fill your mind with joy. Life is beautiful in all stages, one has to accept and relish the time he is passing through. 

Having good food, traveling to open spaces, running a cafe, reading books or watching movies will make old age a great and joyful experience.

Language, Media & Truth

         Sandra Alva

Social Scientist at CCGS, Sao Paulo, Brazil

E-mail: sandra_a@globalculturz.org

All languages are media, though media consist of several other complex components. From verbal to the scripted one, languages have played a vital role in human communication and preservation of knowledge. Language needs an effective media for an effective communication and it’s true vice-versa.

The history of the evolution of languages is quite interesting. They are a complex system of arbitrary sound signs. This arbitrariness has given human mind to expand its imagination manifold. With the invent of print media, like Gutenberg Press, languages got more stability historically and geographically as well. Textual language began to dominate over verbal one and established a more authentic communication in human society. It also unburdened human minds to retain the knowledge and information through memory.

Places of Interest: Odaiba

                                                                                        Tina Williams

Research Director, CCGS

 New York City

E-mail: info@globalculturz.org

As soon as you arrive at Narita Airport and move towards Tokyo main city you come across a magnificent place known as Odaiba. Particularly in the night, Odaiba, gives a beautiful glimpse of colors in the backdrop of Pacific ocean. There are two monorail loops, which connect Odaiba to Central Tokyo. A beautiful ship ride is also possible from Hamamatsu-cho. After sunset, Tokyo City skyline emerges and worth seeing. There are many attractions in Odaiba, including shopping complexes, onsens and Giant Wheel, Gundam Robot etc. The most fascinating thing for me in Odaiba is the sea-walk. By the coming of the evening, the seashore is filled with colorful boats and Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree start glowing in a mystic darkness. Sometimes clear blue-black sky adds a magical dimension to it.   

It can take up to a whole day on foot. People of different nationalities can be seen in their traditional costumes. Odaiba is an icon of global culture. It is located on a reclaimed land from the sea and its landscape just fascinates. There are several Japanese and Foreign Restaurants to enjoy tasteful seafood. There is also a replica of Statue of Liberty, which reflects Japan-US friendship. During WW-II, Allied forces bombarded Tokyo and Odaiba was the most affected city. Un-exploded bombs-shells can be touched near sea area. There is also one aquarium to go and see colorful fishes. I recommend going there in the evening. It is a charming place to roam, sure aimlessly too.  

गणिका विमर्श (A Discourse on Indian Court Entertainers)

  

                          Dr. Satya Priya Pandey

                             University of Delhi

                              New Delhi, India
                   E-mail: info@globalculturz.org

Summary in English:

Indian female entertainers known as Ganika were an essential part of Indian courts. The auspicious presence, during crowning ceremony of princes and to encourage the departing soldiers, reflects their importance in the society.  The female dancers were the prime source of sublime energy in male-dominated society. Their references are documented in mythological and historical scriptures of India. Different literary works have depicted the importance Ganikas in social life. Needless to say, that a very similar tradition in Japanese culture as Geisha is also present. Prof. S.P.Pandey in his scholarly article-GANIKA VIMARSH-has discussed the many dimensions of this common tradition of India and Japan. Though he has elucidated the Indian context only in this research.

  

प्राचीन साहित्य को देखकर यह लगता है कि वेश्याओं की स्थिति आज की अपेक्षा काफी अच्छी थी , उन्हें राज्याश्रय प्राप्त था , राज्य में वेश्याओं को लिए समुचित व्यवस्था थी | राजा के राज्याभिषेक के अवसर पर अथवा सेना के प्रयाण के अवसर पर वेश्याओं को सम्मुख किया जाता था , इनका दर्शन शुभ माना जाता  था | वाल्मीकि रामायण में लंका विजयोपरांत  राम के राज्याभिषेक के अवसर पर गणिकाओं की उपस्थिति वर्णित है , जिसके अनुसार – स्तुति और पुराणों के जानकार सूत , समस्त वैतालिक ( भांट) बाजे बजाने में कुशल सब लोग , सभी गणिकाएँ , राजरानियाँ , मंत्रीगण, सेनाएँ, सैनिकों की स्त्रियाँ, ब्राह्मण, क्षत्रिय तथा व्यवसायी – संघ के मुखियालोग श्रीरामचंद्र जी के मुखचन्द्रका दर्शन करनेके लिए नगर से बाहर चलें | ( वाल्मीकि रामायण, युद्धकाण्ड , 127 / 3 – 4 |