This book explores the current state of Japan's role in the contemporary Middle East, and discusses its implications for the future. The studies which comprise Japan and the Contemporary Middle East deal with the relevant period of the twentieth century and especially with the rapid transformation of Japan's relationship with the region since 1973. The essays provide access in English to the current economic and political analyses by Japanese specialists concerned with the Middle East and will assist anyone interested in Japan's relationship with this crucial region.

The book attempts to cover major features of these relations with an interdisciplinary perspective. The dependence of Japan on Middle Eastern oil is examined together with the changing nature of Japan's energy consumption policies at home and its involvement in joining ventures in the region. Japan's role as a major provider of economic assistance is also reviewed and its future potential role in this area is emphasized.