Japan’s new PM Fumio Kishida vows to end coronavirus crisis, boost defences against China, North Korea
- Rallying support ahead of an expected October 31 general election, Kishida promised in his first policy speech to pursue politics of ‘trust and empathy’
- He said establishing a stable relationship with China is important, but Tokyo will still ‘speak up’ against Beijing’s activities in the region
Tasked with a crucial mission of rallying public support ahead of national elections expected on October 31, Kishida promised to pursue politics of “trust and empathy”.
He was elected by parliament and sworn in on Monday as Japan’s 100th prime minister, succeeding Yoshihide Suga who left after only a year in office. Suga’s perceived high-handed approach to virus measures and holding the Olympics despite rising cases angered the public and hurt the ruling Liberal Democrats.
“I will devote my body and soul to overcome the national crisis together with the people to pioneer the new era so that we can pass a bountiful Japan to the next generation,” said Kishida.
He promised to be more attentive to public concerns and needs, and prepare virus measures based on “a worst-case scenario”. That includes taking advantage of a drop in infections to improve crisis management before the weather turns cold, approving Covid-19 treatment pills by the end of December and digitalising vaccine certificates for use at home as Japan gradually tries to expand social and economic activity, Kishida said.
A former moderate who recently turned hawk on security issues, he said Japan should also increase preparedness for growing regional threats.