WASHINGTON — More than a decade ago, Japanese diplomat Ryozo Kato wrote in an op-ed that Japan should make efforts to “create the next Armitage.” Kato, a former ambassador to Washington, was referring to former Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage, who, with Harvard scholar Joseph Nye, helped shape the modern U.S.-Japan alliance. From 2000 to 2024, the two produced six “Armitage-Nye reports” as roadmaps for the relationship.
This spring, within just 23 days, both Armitage and Nye passed away — at a time when Japan needs solid advice in navigating the second administration of President Donald Trump.
