Oman and Japan can work together to enhance maritime order, freedom of navigation: Expert

Professor Atsuko Kanehara, a renowned expert in international law, recently visited the Sultanate of Oman to deliver a lecture on maritime security and international legal challenges. In an exclusive interview with the Observer, she shared her insights on the legal complexities of the law of the sea, her experiences in international litigation, and her aspirations for enhanced cooperation between Oman and Japan.

Reflecting on her visit to Oman, Professor Kanehara highlighted the strong maritime connection between Oman and Japan. “Oman is a maritime country, just like Japan. Given its strategic location near the Strait of Hormuz and its proximity to the Arabian Gulf, Oman shares common interests with Japan, particularly in ensuring the safety and security of sea routes. These factors inspired me to visit Oman,” she explained.

As a specialist in international law, Professor Kanehara identifies violent obstructions to the lawful use of the sea as one of today’s most pressing legal challenges.

“The situation in the Red Sea, where the freedom of navigation is at risk, is a serious concern. Additionally, frequent acts of sabotage against submarine cables and pipelines pose significant threats. Japan has also experienced instances where its whaling vessels were violently obstructed by the Sea Shepherd in the Antarctic Ocean,” she noted.

With extensive experience in international legal disputes, Professor Kanehara has worked on pivotal cases that have shaped her perspective. “The South Bluefin Tuna case and the Antarctic Whaling case were significant due to the emotional environmental reactions they provoked. These cases taught me that legal justice sometimes struggles to convince public opinion purely through legal arguments,” she shared.

Throughout her career, Professor Kanehara has worked in academia, think tanks, and discharged advisory roles within governments and international organizations. “I taught public international law at a university in Tokyo before moving to think tanks to focus on research. I have also participated in study group meetings hosted by Japanese governmental bodies. Additionally, I serve on the board of governors for the International Maritime Law Institute under the International Maritime Organization,” she said.

For young scholars considering a career in international law, Professor Kanehara offers a crucial piece of advice. “It is essential to establish that international law is a legal and positive law. Unfortunately, there is often confusion between international law and theories related to international relations or security,” she emphasized.

During her visit, Professor Kanehara aimed to promote deeper collaboration between Oman and Japan in maritime affairs. “I would like to convey to the Omani people that our two nations can work together to maintain and enhance the maritime order, particularly ensuring freedom of navigation. This is not only in our mutual interest but also a vital concern for the broader international community. The freedom of navigation is one of the oldest principles of international law and the law of the sea,” she concluded.

As maritime security continues to be a critical issue globally, Professor Kanehara’s visit to Oman underscores the importance of legal frameworks in maintaining stability and cooperation at sea. Her expertise and insights serve as a valuable contribution to the ongoing dialogue on the law of the sea and security.

Interviewer : NASRULAH AL AJMI