Impact of Hatoyama's reforms

DPJ-led government's security strategy expected to be the key variable in Sino-Japanese relations

The "reform movement" launched by Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama after his Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) defeated the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in the country's general elections last September has led to political repercussions at home and abroad.

Hatoyama's plan for an East Asian Community (EAC) and his avowed commitment to seek equal status for Japan in its alliance with the United States are expected to influence the security environment in the Asia-Pacific region as well as globally.