Abe also spoke of the need for Japan to be allowed to assume a larger role in issues of global security. Since he came to power, Abe has put forth his vision of a "New Japan", which in his mind should reflect the beauty of the country's democratic nature and its willingness to do its fair share to maintain international peace and stability. Unfortunately his wonderful vision of Japan has been marred by some of his myopic views concerning the nation's past dealings with neighbouring countries.

As far as Japan is concerned, one has to be clear that the proposed constitutional changes and the stated desire for greater international responsibility are two separate issues. In more ways than one, the two could be interconnected. However to make them inclusive of each other could bring further controversy.

Japan, as the world's second-largest economy, can be a major force in global prosperity and stability. Over the past four decades, Japan has been content with its role in assisting development. The country's growth in the 1960s and 1970s enabled Japan to provide assistance to poor countries in Asia and beyond. Furthermore, Tokyo has been instrumental in providing humanitarian assistance to all corners of the world. It has also spearheaded discussions and policy initiatives related to human security. One of the country's greatest achievements has been in the refugee area, with Japan providing general financial-aid packages.

Since the 1990s, Japanese leaders have realised that the country could be useful in maintaining international peace and security. Japan began to dispatch its civilian and uniformed personnel to participate in peacekeeping and peace-building initiatives in various parts of the world.

However, it was Japan's active peacekeeping role in Cambodia that highlighted its readiness to assume a more prominent role in the region and internationally. Subsequently, Japan broadened its participation to East Timor, and also should be commended for the rapid assistance it provided to victims of the Asian tsunami in 2004. Such moves showed flexibility and a new pragmatism in Japan's foreign policy.

This much is clear: recent improvements in relations between Japan and China have loosened tensions in the region. Now there are new prospects to discuss the future of the East Asian community, in which both countries play a leading role. It is undeniable that Beijing's attitude towards Tokyo's efforts to change the constitution is most imperative. It is indicative of whether Japan's review will be problematic or not. For practical purposes, members countries of Asean have come to accept Japan's growing role. More so than they would want to admit, Japan will play a large role in helping to balance China's powerful influence.

One question must be asked and that is whether Japan's ultimate objective is to send its military out to take part in peacekeeping missions overseas in order to protect its national sovereignty or if the country has something else in mind. It is important for Japan and its leaders to explain Japan's moves in a clear manner.

Any mishaps of the past, such as Abe's faux pas concerning the subject of comfort women during World War II, hardly could contribute to a better understanding of Japan's future position. It is very interesting to note all of the ambiguities and controversies that are embedded in the region and the world that emanate from Japan. For example, the Yasukuni Shrine visits continue to haunt Abe. Tokyo has failed to communicate effectively and frankly with the rest of the world. To do so, words and deeds by Japanese leaders must complement one another, without stirring up old wounds.

Then and only then can Japan gain the kind of confidence that would enable it to become a normal country.