On January 19th (local time), Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba commented on the arrest of South Korean President Yoon Seok-yeol, stating that regardless of any potential changes in the South Korean government, the importance of South Korea-Japan relations would remain unchanged. Speaking on an NHK program, Ishiba highlighted that this year marks the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Japan. He expressed his intention to continue efforts to maintain and strengthen the positive relationship between the two countries, which had significantly improved during President Yoon’s term.
Prime Minister Ishiba also revealed that he is in the process of coordinating schedules for his first summit with President-elect Donald Trump, who will be inaugurated on January 20th. Although the specific date for the summit has not been finalized, Ishiba mentioned that discussions are ongoing, with the meeting expected to take place “around this time.” He emphasized the importance of the summit, stating that it would provide an opportunity for both countries to engage in proactive discussions on foreign policy matters, including security, economic issues, and the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
In addition, Prime Minister Ishiba addressed the issue of U.S. President Joe Biden’s order blocking Nippon Steel’s acquisition of U.S. Steel, expressing his intention to seek President-elect Trump’s understanding on the matter. Ishiba conveyed that he would explain how the acquisition would contribute to job creation in both countries, hoping to gain support for the deal from the incoming Trump administration.
Local media, including the Nihon Keizai Shimbun, have recently reported that Prime Minister Ishiba and President-elect Trump are coordinating to hold their summit in early February. On the domestic front, Ishiba discussed the upcoming House of Councillors (Upper House) elections in Japan, scheduled for July. He set the benchmark for success as securing a majority for the entire ruling party, calling it the “minimum line” for victory.
Finally, regarding the possibility of the opposition party submitting a motion of no confidence in the cabinet during the regular session scheduled to take place from January 24th to June 22nd, Ishiba hinted that such a move could lead to the dissolution of the House of Representatives. He noted that the purpose of the Constitution is to seek the people’s trust, suggesting that he might take such a drastic step to maintain stability and confidence in the government.