JAPAN'S SEARCH FOR A POLITICAL ROLE
Japan. However, Tokyo's contribution to regional security in Southeast Asia will not be underpinned by a direct military presence but by a substantial economic and an increasing political role. This troika is operating in an area where many regional states have enjoyed impressive economic growth, progress in nation building, enhanced military capabilities, the development and expansion of a regional grouping, ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and a strong desire not to be dominated by any regional or extra regional powers. Tokyo's post Cold War attempts to exercise political initiatives in Southeast Asia are framed by its relationship with the United States and China, the favour able or negative outlook of the regional states to an increased Japanese role, and the domestic politics of Japan. The country seeks a higher political profile within the bilateral framework of the U.S. Japan Alliance, and multilateral regional and international organizations. Such a non unilateral approach is more acceptable to the United States, China, the Southeast Asian states and Japanese public opinion. This article addresses the following questions. WTiy does Japan seek to be an increasingly important political actor in Southeast Asia? In what ways have the end of the Cold War directly or indirectly provided Tokyo the opportunities to play a regional political role? What political role is Japan adopting in the region? What are the domestic and international considerations to Tokyo's ambitions to play a larger political role in the region?