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On Tue, 1 Oct, 4:04 PM UTC
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[1]
Japan's new train-loving prime minister wants a higher corporate tax rate, more AI investment, and a review of long working hours
Shigeru Ishiba, who became Japan's new prime minister on Tuesday, is a former defence minister known for his in-depth security policy knowledge. Ishiba's push to boost the military and call for the creation of an Asian NATO could rile Beijing, but he is careful with his words concerning China. "I will be committed to protecting Japan's territory," he said on Friday after the ruling party voted him leader. "Japan wants to fulfil our proactive responsibility and start discussions about how to build peace in this region." Tensions are running high after incursions into Japanese airspace by China and Russia. A Japanese warship also last week sailed through the Taiwan Strait for the first time. Although he is relatively popular with the public, Ishiba had four failed bids to lead his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), including a 2012 try against his arch-rival Shinzo Abe, before prevailing this time against a nationalist. For a long time Ishiba alienated party heavyweights with his "outspoken criticism of LDP policies under Abe", said Yu Uchiyama, a politics professor at the University of Tokyo. But recently he has been "vocal about the need for the LDP to turn over a new leaf when it comes to the funding scandal and other issues", which may have worked in his favour. He has also proposed creating a government agency in charge of disaster prevention in the earthquake-prone country that is also frequently hit by typhoons and heavy rains. On Tuesday he was formally elected by parliament, where the conservative LDP holds a majority. Ishiba has said he intends to call a general election for October 27. Ishiba, whose politician father was at one point a cabinet minister, grew up in the remote rural region of Tottori. He studied law at university and became a banker before entering politics, winning his first parliamentary seat with the LDP in 1986, aged 29. During his long career, the father of two has held several key posts including LDP secretary general and minister for agriculture. The political veteran is a fan of trains, 1970s pop idols and making military models. Ishiba has pledged to boost the economy by encouraging domestic investment in the chip and AI sectors among other policies, such as using nuclear power alongside renewables to fuel the resource-poor country. He supports the Bank of Japan's exit from its longstanding unorthodox monetary easing policies -- championed by Abe -- and has said "there is room for raising the corporate tax". The money raised by this tax hike will help the government in its existing plan to ramp up defence spending to the NATO standard of 2% of GDP by 2027, according to Ishiba. He aims to raise Japan's low birth rate through measures including a review of the country's notoriously long working hours and expanding support for parents, and wants to fight rural depopulation by revitalising regional economies. Ishiba has said he is uniquely qualified for the job because he has experienced many setbacks when tackling tough social issues, such as agriculture reforms. "I have always asked myself why and how things didn't always go well. I don't want future generations to repeat the same mistakes," he said in a recent debate.
[2]
Shigeru Ishiba: Defence buff takes Japan's top job
TOKYO (AFP) - Shigeru Ishiba, who became Japan's new prime minister on Tuesday, is a former defence minister known for his in-depth security policy knowledge. Ishiba's push to boost the military and call for the creation of an Asian NATO could rile Beijing, but he is careful with his words concerning China. "I will be committed to protecting Japan's territory," he said on Friday after the ruling party voted him leader. "Japan wants to fulfil our proactive responsibility and start discussions about how to build peace in this region." Tensions are running high after incursions into Japanese airspace by China and Russia. A Japanese warship also last week sailed through the Taiwan Strait for the first time. Although he is relatively popular with the public, Ishiba had four failed bids to lead his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), including a 2012 try against his arch-rival Shinzo Abe, before prevailing this time against a nationalist. For a long time Ishiba alienated party heavyweights with his "outspoken criticism of LDP policies under Abe", said Yu Uchiyama, a politics professor at the University of Tokyo. But recently he has been "vocal about the need for the LDP to turn over a new leaf when it comes to the funding scandal and other issues", which may have worked in his favour. He has also proposed creating a government agency in charge of disaster prevention in the earthquake-prone country that is also frequently hit by typhoons and heavy rains. On Tuesday he was formally elected by parliament, where the conservative LDP holds a majority. Ishiba has said he intends to call a general election for October 27. Don't repeat mistakes Ishiba, whose politician father was at one point a cabinet minister, grew up in the remote rural region of Tottori. He studied law at university and became a banker before entering politics, winning his first parliamentary seat with the LDP in 1986, aged 29. During his long career, the father of two has held several key posts including LDP secretary general and minister for agriculture. The political veteran is a fan of trains, 1970s pop idols and making military models. Ishiba has pledged to boost the economy by encouraging domestic investment in the chip and AI sectors among other policies, such as using nuclear power alongside renewables to fuel the resource-poor country. He supports the Bank of Japan's exit from its longstanding unorthodox monetary easing policies -- championed by Abe -- and has said "there is room for raising the corporate tax". The money raised by this tax hike will help the government in its existing plan to ramp up defence spending to the NATO standard of two percent of GDP by 2027, according to Ishiba. He aims to raise Japan's low birth rate through measures including a review of the country's notoriously long working hours and expanding support for parents, and wants to fight rural depopulation by revitalising regional economies. Ishiba has said he is uniquely qualified for the job because he has experienced many setbacks when tackling tough social issues, such as agriculture reforms. "I have always asked myself why and how things didn't always go well. I don't want future generations to repeat the same mistakes," he said in a recent debate.
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Shigeru Ishiba, a veteran politician known for his expertise in defense matters, has been elected as Japan's new Prime Minister. His policy platform emphasizes national security and economic revitalization.
Shigeru Ishiba, a seasoned politician with a strong background in defense matters, has ascended to the position of Prime Minister in Japan, marking a significant shift in the country's leadership 1. The 67-year-old former defense minister secured victory in a closely watched election, bringing his wealth of experience and distinct policy vision to the forefront of Japanese politics.
Ishiba's reputation as a "defense buff" is well-established, and his election signals a potential strengthening of Japan's military stance 2. His policy platform places significant emphasis on national security, reflecting growing concerns about regional tensions and the need for a robust defense strategy. Ishiba has long advocated for a more assertive defense posture, arguing that Japan must be prepared to face evolving security challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.
While defense takes center stage, Ishiba's policy agenda also addresses pressing economic issues. The new Prime Minister has outlined plans for economic revitalization, recognizing the need to boost Japan's economy in the face of global uncertainties 1. His approach includes measures to stimulate growth, address demographic challenges, and enhance Japan's competitiveness on the international stage.
Ishiba's path to the premiership has been marked by years of political experience and a reputation for policy expertise. Having served as defense minister and in other key cabinet positions, he brings a depth of knowledge to his new role 2. His election represents a choice for experienced leadership at a time when Japan faces complex domestic and international challenges.
The appointment of a defense-oriented Prime Minister could have significant implications for regional dynamics in East Asia. Ishiba's stance on security matters may influence Japan's relationships with neighboring countries, particularly in the context of ongoing territorial disputes and the broader balance of power in the region 1. Observers will be closely watching how his leadership affects Japan's diplomatic approach and military posture.
Ishiba's election also reflects shifts within Japan's domestic political landscape. His rise to power suggests a desire for change among voters and within the ruling party, potentially signaling new directions in policy-making and governance 2. The composition of his cabinet and early policy initiatives will be crucial indicators of the direction his administration intends to take.
Reference
[2]
Shigeru Ishiba, a long-time critic of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, has been elected as Japan's new leader. Known for his military expertise and hobby of building model tanks, Ishiba's ascension marks a significant shift in Japanese politics.
3 Sources
3 Sources
Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party is set to choose a new leader to succeed Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The race features four candidates with diverse backgrounds and policy priorities, including a former premier's son and a defense expert.
9 Sources
9 Sources
Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is set to choose a new leader as Prime Minister Fumio Kishida steps down. Nine candidates, including high-profile names, are vying for the top position in a race that could reshape Japan's political landscape.
4 Sources
4 Sources
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announces a massive investment plan to revitalize the country's semiconductor and AI sectors, aiming to strengthen Japan's position in the global tech industry.
4 Sources
4 Sources
Japan's Self-Defense Forces face a severe recruitment shortage, prompting a shift towards AI and automation. The military proposes a record-breaking budget to address the crisis and modernize its capabilities.
3 Sources
3 Sources
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