Japan’s next prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, shared his vision for redefining the country’s military alliance with the United States after winning the leadership race of the conservative ruling party on Friday. The 67-year-old former defense minister triumphed over Sanae Takaichi, an arch-nationalist who would have been Japan’s first female leader.
With the Liberal Democratic Party maintaining a majority, Ishiba is expected to be formally elected premier by parliament on Tuesday.
During a press conference, Ishiba emphasized the need to restore confidence in the party following a funding scandal and discussed his reform plans.
He expressed a desire for Japan to take a proactive role in regional peace discussions, including proposals for an Asian NATO that could expand existing alliances like the Quad, which includes Japan, the United States, India, and Australia.
Ishiba also suggested establishing a military training facility in the U.S. to enhance the capabilities of Japanese forces. Following the election outcome, Ishiba aims to call for a snap election to solidify his mandate and address pressing national security challenges amid increasing tensions from China and North Korea.
Peoplesmind