As if a poll was needed...

I really should keep up with the Japanese news on occasion. Anyways, I came across a short article from the Yomiuri here:
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/world/news/20091231-OYT1T00523.htm

It basically talks about a poll conducted by the Chinese newspaper the People's Daily, the CCP's bulletin, concerning the most important international relationship. The Chinese polled answered in a large majority for the US-China relationship as the most important international relationship.

Concerning the most important neighboring country - Russia leads Japan by about 6%.

Of particular interest is the 2006 result mentioned in the general category, with the Japan-China relationship scored 48.7%. Possibly a residual effect of the 2005 textbook scandal. Showing the impact nationalism can play into these decisions, but also its sharp decline over time when considering more material issues China faces.