Japanese and American security specialists and both former and current government officials met at the Hotel Washington in Washington, D.C. on March 21-23, 2004 to discuss the current status and desired future of U.S.-Japan security relations. The sections below closely follow the conference agenda, concentrating on current concerns and developments in East Asian security, and the evolving security policies of both Japan and the United States, including their respective interests on regional and global events. A final section addresses future issues that both governments should be alert to as they consider how to improve alliance management. Readers should note that this summary reflects the rapporteur’s notes and interpretations of discussions, and is not intended to convey consensus. It also strives to respect the off-the-record, not-for-attribution nature of the conference.

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