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Tokyo Report
Japan Ex-Diplomat Kishida Wins Party Vote, to Become New PM
By Mari Yamaguchi
Japan's new leader faces an uphill battle in reviving a pandemic-hit economy and addressing growing regional security risks.
AUKUS: Lessons for Japan’s Defense Industry
By Yuki Tatsumi
If Japan’s leaders were surprised to be left out, they shouldn’t be. The culture surrounding Japan’s defense industry is not ready for an AUKUS-like partnership.
Ghosts of the Past in the LDP Presidential Election
By Taro Tsuda
The backgrounds and formative influences of the candidates are a particularly rich trove of information, given the powerful role of factional lineages and dynastic politics in Japan.
Where Are Japan’s Policy Entrepreneurs?
By Jake Northey
For all the focus on Japan’s ruling LDP, some of Japan’s most influential policy innovators aren’t found within government at all.
What If Kono Taro Becomes Japan’s Next Prime Minister?
By Daisuke Akimoto
The spirit of the Kono Statement will be welcomed by Beijing and Seoul - if Kono Taro truly intends to follow in his father's footsteps.
Japan’s Prime Minister Hopefuls Outline Different Visions
By Mari Yamaguchi
The LDP presidential race – which will determine the country’s next leader – is shaping up.
The Arrival of Kishida Diplomacy?
By Daisuke Akimoto
If Kishida Fumio, Japan's longest-serving foreign minister, becomes prime minister, what will his foreign policy agenda look like?
Suga Bows Out of Party Vote, Paves Way for New Japan Leader
By Mari Yamaguchi
The Liberal Democrats and their coalition partner have a majority in parliament. Whoever wins the September 29 party vote is likely to become the new prime minister.
US Climate Envoy in Japan to Push Efforts to Cut Emissions
By Mari Yamaguchi
John Kerry is in Japan to press Tokyo for more aggressive action on emissions.
Japan’s COVID-19 Vaccination Drive Success Is an Opportunity for Global Leadership
By James Gannon and Kazuyo Kato
Tokyo is battling a surge in COVID-19 cases, but its initially slow vaccination campaign has surged ahead too.
Will Japan Become a Hub for China and Russia to Evade Sanctions?
By Francis Shin
Compared to the rest of the G-7, Japan’s relatively lax stance could make it a prime candidate for money laundering and other sanctions evasion activities.
Japan Further Expands Virus Emergency Areas as Cases Surge
By Mari Yamaguchi
33 of Japan's 47 prefectures are now under some type of emergency measures.