In the case of Japan, proclaiming a ‘proactive pacifism’12) based on the U.S.-Japan Alliance, its government is moving toward a more proactive defense policy. In April 2014, Japan set out the ‘Three Principles of Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology’ which drastically alleviated the restrictions on exporting weapons and military equipment. Also, by reinterpreting the post-war pacifist constitution to allow engagement in collective self-defense, the role of the Self-Defense Forces is expanding beyond the region and towards the international community. Russia is focusing on restoring its influence in the former Soviet region through such moves as the establishment of the Eurasia Economic Union (EEU) and integration of the Crimean peninsula, while actively intervening in international issues like the Syrian crisis and Iranian nuclear program. Given how Russia is expanding its Eastern Military District and the Pacific Fleet and showing active interest in international cooperation in the development of Russia’s Far East, the country’s influence in the region is likely to continue to increase going forward. As the ‘Asia’s paradox’ is expected to linger on in Northeast Asia at least for the foreseeable future, how U.S.-China relations develop in the near future may be the determining factor for the security order and stability in the region. The U.S. and China are likely to share benefits from regional stability and peace, while maintaining a relationship of cooperation or competition depending on the issues at stake. However, when their core national interests clash, this could exacerbate the discord between the two countries, affecting the security environment in the region. 2. expanding Influence of Countries surrounding the Korean Peninsula and Military Modernization While the U.S. maintains its military superiority, China, Japan and Russia are vying to build up their own military strength, spurring an arms race especially in naval and air forces. <Chart 1-2> below summarizes the military strength of the four countries surrounding the Korean peninsula: 12) the expression was first used by Japanese Premier Shinzo abe, during his speech to the UN General assembly in September 2013, to convey Japan’s desire to make the Self-Defense Forces an active participant of UN peacekeeping operations (PKO) and contribute to global peace and stability. 14 Chapter 1 Changes and Challenges in the Security environment