<p class="rtejustify">As the international system undergoes a major overhaul, Japan is emerging as one pillar of the multilateral rules-based order. Despite being often perceived as a declining country, it remains the world's third largest economy and, as a member of the RCEP, CP-TPP and the Japan-EU Economic Partnership Agreement, plays a key role in trade liberalization and norms shaping. In recent years, Tokyo has also demonstrated a proactive diplomacy, especially in the Indo-Pacific area where it is one of the core stakeholders. In this regard, Japan has become a major partner for Europe and for France.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="rtejustify">Through its research activities, <strong><a href="/en/recherche/zones-geographiques/asie">Ifri's Center for Asian Studies</a></strong> aims to provide a better understanding of Japan's action in the world and to foster the dialogue and cooperation between France and Japan.</p>