Japan’s parliament on Oct. 21 elected Sanae Takaichi, head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), as the new prime minister, making her the first woman to assume the office.
The vote came just a day after the LDP reached a coalition deal with the Japan Innovation Party, securing Takaichi the backing needed to overcome opposition rivals.
Despite the coalition agreement, Takaichi still falls short of a majority in both chambers of parliament and will need to court other opposition parties to pass any legislation. She had earlier called for political stability to boost Japan’s economy.
“Political stability is essential right now,” Takaichi said at an Oct. 20 signing ceremony with Japan Innovation Party leader and Osaka Gov. Hirofumi Yoshimura. “Without stability, we cannot push measures for a strong economy or diplomacy.”
“While this remains a minority government, we intend to cooperate closely with other parties to deliver swift economic measures, starting with steps to curb rising prices. I believe today’s prime ministerial vote has laid the groundwork for that effort,” Suzuki said.
"Takaichi will soon announce an economic package, and a supplementary budget will follow. The most urgent task will be tackling inflation and rising prices. That will be our first priority.”
Takaichi replaces Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned with his Cabinet earlier in the day. Ishiba, who served as prime minister for one year, announced in September that he was stepping down following two election defeats that left his party without a majority.
The new prime minister faces a tight schedule, with a major policy speech later this week, talks with U.S. President Donald Trump, and upcoming regional summits.
Takaichi warned that the growing military activities by China, North Korea, and Russia have created an “increasingly severe and complex” security environment for Japan in recent years.
“Japan and the United States must work closely together to address the challenges we face and enhance deterrence and response capabilities,” she said.
On the issue of China’s military threat against Taiwan, a self-governed island that Beijing claims as part of its territory, Takaichi said that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are “of the utmost importance” to Japan and the international community. She noted that Taiwan is an “extremely important partner” to Japan.
“We are closely monitoring recent developments concerning Taiwan, including the military situation. Unilateral changes to the status quo through force or coercion must never occur,” she said. “I also wish to engage in solid and candid dialogue with Chinese leaders.”