Diplomatic Bluebook 2001
Message from the Minister for Foreign Affairs
The curtain has closed on the 20th century and opened on the 21st century. For Japan to conduct diplomacy appropriate for the new century, it is crucial that we reflect on the events of the previous 100 years and create a vision for our country in the 21st century.
This Diplomatic Bluebook attempts to do just that by describing Japan's diplomacy in the final year of the 20th century. The Bluebook surveys the international situation from the two perspectives of (1) Japan's role in addressing the global issues faced by the international community as it stands on the threshold between two centuries; and (2) maintenance of stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region at the dawn of the 21st century.
The Diplomatic Bluebook explores the significance of the G8 Kyushu-Okinawa Summit, a high-priority issue in Japan's diplomacy in the first half of the year 2000, and describes noteworthy issues such as the Korean Peninsula situation, the Middle East peace process, and Yugoslavia/Kosovo-all areas that saw dramatic development during 2000. Moreover, the Diplomatic Bluebook introduces Japan's key bilateral relationships, regional cooperation, and global efforts, including those led by the United Nations.
We have enlarged the dimensions of this 2001 edition of the Diplomatic Bluebook to enhance readability.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to strive to do its utmost to fulfill its responsibility to be accountable for its activities to the public and to lead Japan's diplomacy with the understanding and support of the Japanese people.
Makiko Tanaka
Minister for Foreign Affairs
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