The relationship between the transatlantic partners and Japan has been internationally considered as being of paramount importance in the past. Now, however, the relationship between the transatlantic community and Japan has lost precedence due to a greater focus on a rising India and China. The G7/8 has made way for the G20.

In this brief, the author argues that there should be an attempt to reverse this trend. The reality is that the transatlantic community and Japan have yet to fulfill their true potential for cooperation, be it in trade, climate change, or foreign policy. This under-developed link between the transatlantic community and Japan is a huge loss in terms of making the world safer and more stable. To create this synergy, there is a need for greater strategic European engagement in Asia, an active Europe-Japan relationship, and more U.S.-Europe dialogue and cooperation on wider Asian issues. This brief argues that the fundamental goal should be the establishment of a relationship where Europe, North America, and Japan "use" each other to advance their own interests in Asia and beyond.