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Japan Remains Most Trusted Power in Southeast Asia, Trust Declines

4/16/2026

41 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute conducted a survey of 2,008 Southeast Asian respondents and found Japan is the most trusted power at 65.6%, down from 66.8% last year.
Analysts say Japan must be transparent about its military actions as it amends its pacifist constitution.
The European Union and the United States follow Japan in trust, at 55.9% and 44%, respectively.
China and India rank lower at 39.8% and 38.5%.

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Story summary

The ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute conducted a survey of 2,008 Southeast Asian respondents and found Japan is the most trusted power at 65.6%, down from 66.8% last year.
Analysts say Japan must be transparent about its military actions as it amends its pacifist constitution.
The European Union and the United States follow Japan in trust, at 55.9% and 44%, respectively.
China and India rank lower at 39.8% and 38.5%.