Why are China, Japan, and South Korea resuming trilateral talks after a four-year hiatus?

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Resumption of Trilateral Talks Driven by Need for Regional Cooperation Amid Shifting Geopolitics

China, Japan, and South Korea are resuming their trilateral summit after a four-year hiatus due to a confluence of factors, including the disruption of established cooperation mechanisms by bilateral disputes and the COVID-19 pandemic, and a broader geopolitical environment characterized by intensifying Sino-US rivalry. The resumption signifies a renewed effort to foster regional cooperation, particularly in areas of mutual economic and social interest, despite ongoing historical and strategic tensions among the three East Asian nations.
Interruption of Annual Summits and Bilateral Tensions

The established practice of annual trilateral summits, initiated in 2008 to enhance regional cooperation, was significantly disrupted by persistent bilateral feuds between the participating nations, alongside the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These historical disputes, particularly between South Korea and Japan, had previously strained their relationship, leading to a breakdown in consistent high-level dialogue. The pandemic further exacerbated this by making in-person meetings impossible, leading to the last summit taking place in late 2019.
Deepening Security Partnerships and Geopolitical Rivalry

The current geopolitical landscape, marked by escalating Sino-US rivalry, has also influenced the dynamics of these trilateral talks. Both South Korea and Japan have been actively working to mend their bilateral ties, partly to strengthen a trilateral security partnership with the United States. This strategic alignment is seen as a response to regional security concerns, including warnings from Seoul and Tokyo against any attempts to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
China's Concerns and Regional Stability

China has expressed reservations about the deepening security cooperation between the US, South Korea, and Japan, cautioning that such moves could escalate regional tensions and confrontation. Beijing has also voiced criticism, for instance, regarding the attendance of South Korean and Japanese lawmakers at the inauguration of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te. These reactions highlight China's sensitivity to perceived shifts in regional alliances and its concerns about stability in the broader East Asian context.
Focus on Practical Cooperation

While major breakthroughs on sensitive political issues might be unlikely, the summit is expected to yield progress in areas of practical cooperation. Leaders are set to adopt a joint statement covering six key domains: economy and trade, science and technology, people-to-people exchanges, and health and the aging population. This focus suggests an intent to rebuild trust and foster future-oriented collaboration on issues that directly impact the well-being and development of their respective populations.

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Why are China, Japan, and South Korea resuming trilateral talks after a four-year hiatus?

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