Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi
Coverage of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in the Nexus archive.
- Japan’s economy manages 1.1% growth rate despite headwinds
Japan's economy grew at an annual rate of 1.1% in the April-June quarter, even while private consumption remained flat and exports declined. Although quarterly GDP growth was lower than expected due to economic headwinds such as high energy costs from the war in Iran, strong global demand for autos and semiconductors helped support Japan’s exports.
- China Protests Japan PM, Defense Minister’s Yasukuni Actions
China lodged a formal protest with Japan concerning Yasukuni actions. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi sent an offering to the shrine, while Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi visited it on the anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II.
- Japan's defense chief visits shrine neighbors see as symbol of Japanese militarism
The Japanese defense minister prayed at Tokyo’s Yasukuni Shrine on Saturday, an act seen by Asian neighbors as symbolizing Japan's past militarism. This visit is criticized by China and South Korea for showing a lack of remorse over wartime atrocities. The event intensified tensions amid discussions about increasing military capability under the government.
- Hiroshima marks 81st atomic bomb anniversary as mayor deplores the pursuit of nuclear weapons
On the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Mayor Kazumi Matsui deplored nuclear weapons, criticizing major powers for waging wars and urging them to reject deterrence as a policy. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged a 'realistic approach' toward achieving a world without nuclear weapons within the United Nations framework. The commemoration occurred amid speculation regarding Japan’s potential review of its postwar three non-nuclear principles.
- Japan's parliament enshrines male-only succession for the shrinking imperial family
Japan's parliament revised the Imperial House Law to enforce male-only succession for the emperor, excluding female heirs like Princess Aiko and sparking concerns about the shrinking imperial family. New measures allow adoption of distant male relatives and let princesses retain royal status after marrying commoners.
- Japan's imperial family is diminishing. Plan for male-only succession could make it worse
Japan's parliament revised the Imperial House Law to enforce male-only succession, sparking concerns about the shrinking imperial family. Princess Aiko, Emperor Naruhito's daughter, is ineligible to succeed, making Prince Hisahito the heir. The law allows adopting distant male relatives and permits princesses to retain royal status after marrying commoners.