Shinzo Abe (2006-07,2012-20)) Yasuo Fukuda (2007-08) Was china leaning and a pacifist Yoshihito Saga Knawel Sibel - Cherry blossom Phase PM Abe in his book Towards a Beautiful country - Natural Ally If any relation can be compared to Indo-Soviet relations - its is India Japan. 2+2 Special Strategic and Global Partnership India & Japan have civilizational links. Warmth in the relations of civil society Modi - on uniqueness of I-J relations - "Mutual trust & faith, understanding of each other's interest and concerns; sharing core values of peace, democracy and ROL; regular high level interaction" Emperor and empress visited to India which they rarely do. Importance of Japan Geo-political & Geo Strat Aggressive China US - Trump - Defence considerations Naval strength - freedom of navigation in SCS Also wants UNSC reforms ...