During a meeting in Tokyo to commemorate the first anniversary of the Reinventing Infrastructure of Wisdom and Action national council, known as Reiwa Rincho, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida conveyed a strong message of global solidarity. He stressed the importance of the international community coming together under the banner of a free and open international order founded on the principles of the rule of law. Kishida expressed his intentions to advocate for these principles in various diplomatic events, including the upcoming Group of 20 summit and U.N. General Assembly session.
Addressing the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, Kishida firmly asserted that the world must not resort to the law of the jungle. The invasion by Russia has raised concerns about the principles of international law and order, prompting the Japanese Prime Minister to call for unity in upholding a rules-based international system.
As part of his diplomatic agenda, Kishida also plans to initiate discussions on the reconstruction of the United Nations. He aims to review the roles of key UN bodies such as the Security Council, the General Assembly, and the Secretary-General to ensure the organization remains effective and relevant in addressing global challenges.
Regarding Japan’s diplomatic relations with neighboring countries, Kishida expressed optimism about the improvement in Japan-South Korea relations. He sees this as an opportunity to further enhance bilateral ties with South Korea.
On the other hand, Japan’s relations with China remain stagnant. Kishida acknowledged the current state of affairs and stated that his government will continue dialogue with Beijing in a patient and constructive manner to find common ground and improve bilateral cooperation.
At the same Reiwa Rincho meeting, leaders from various political parties voiced their perspectives on Japan’s domestic political landscape. Natsuo Yamaguchi, chief of the coalition partner Komeito, assured that their decision to end election cooperation with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in Tokyo would not weaken the ruling coalition. The coalition aims to maintain a stable administration and focus on broader governance goals.
Kenta Izumi, head of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP), emphasized their party’s distinct identity as a “centrist liberal” force in opposition to the LDP government. He ruled out any coalition with rival opposition Nippon Ishin no Kai, as their ideologies differ significantly from being centrist liberal.
In contrast, Nippon Ishin leader Nobuyuki Baba reiterated their ambition to replace the CDP as the largest opposition party. Baba expressed his party’s long-term goal of evolving into a ruling party within the next decade by securing more seats in the House of Representatives election.
Yuichiro Tamaki, chief of the Democratic Party for the People, highlighted his party’s commitment to wage increases and economic well-being for the people. While cautious about cooperating with the CDP, Tamaki indicated that the LDP’s policies may have a more direct impact on raising wages.
As Japan navigates its domestic and international challenges, Prime Minister Kishida’s call for global solidarity and adherence to the rule of law resonates deeply. As the nation participates in key diplomatic events, the international community eagerly awaits Japan’s role in promoting a free and open international order.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s emphasis on global solidarity and adherence to the rule of law sets the tone for Japan’s engagement in upcoming diplomatic events. As the nation prepares to participate in critical international forums, it aims to advocate for a free and open international order and address pressing global issues. While Japan-South Korea relations show signs of improvement, efforts to reinvigorate diplomatic ties with China continue. The Reiwa Rincho meeting served as a platform for various political leaders to articulate their party’s objectives and aspirations in Japan’s domestic political landscape. With diverse ideologies and ambitions, the nation’s political parties are gearing up for future challenges and opportunities.
© TheJapanTimes
