Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba emphasized the importance of strengthening Japan’s alliance with the United States, expressing his desire to meet with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump at the earliest opportunity.
Japan faces growing challenges from an increasingly assertive China and a nuclear-armed North Korea. “At this time, further reinforcing the U.S.-Japan alliance is crucial… We must also align our perspectives on the evolving situation in Northeast Asia,” Ishiba said, adding that while no date for a potential meeting had been set, efforts were ongoing.
Additionally, Ishiba announced that his cabinet plans to approve a draft state budget for the upcoming fiscal year starting in April, with discussions set for December 27. He reaffirmed his commitment to raising minimum wages and addressing public concerns to stimulate private consumption and drive economic growth.