Sanae Takaichi’s G7 mission: bridge Trump-bloc divides, polish ‘Iron Lady’ image
The Japanese leader also proposed a strategic mineral stockpiling plan during the summit to counter China and boost Tokyo’s global role
At a working dinner on Monday – the opening night of the three-day meeting in Evian, eastern France – Takaichi also proposed a joint strategic stockpile partnership to bolster critical mineral supply chains and reduce China’s dominance in the sector.
“As a representative of Asia, I’m eager to express Japan’s position and efforts, including the perspective of the Indo-Pacific region.”
Rintaro Nishimura, a senior associate at The Asia Group consultancy, said Takaichi’s presence at the summit would help ease Trump’s friction with other G7 leaders who have expressed displeasure over Washington’s trade tariffs and foreign policy.
“Takaichi has maintained positive relations with the G7 nations, including good rapport with Trump while seeking deeper cooperation with European partners in areas ranging from defence and economic security,” Nishimura said.