How Japanese Emperor Naruhito’s visit signals stronger Japan–Netherlands ties as 'middle powers' between the US and China

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How Japanese Emperor Naruhito’s visit signals stronger Japan–Netherlands ties as 'middle powers' between the US and China
Japanese Emperor Naruhito in Mauritshuis in The Hague / photo: Koninklijk Huis

The state visit of Japanese Emperor Naruhito to the Netherlands highlights how relations between The Hague and Tokyo are evolving from a historically burdened relationship into an increasingly close strategic partnership. Whereas previous visits were still heavily shaped by the legacy of the Second World War, the focus has now clearly shifted towards cooperation on security, technology and geopolitics.