Shortly after returning from his first leaders-level visit to Washington, D.C., Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida sat down with Newsweek for an exclusive interview in his Tokyo office to discuss the main takeaways from his trip, as well as the historic changes he is overseeing in his nation's military, economic and diplomatic strategies.
Kishida, who took office in October 2021, is looking to fortify his country's long-standing alliance with the United States and expand regional ties. At the same time, Japan is undergoing its largest military buildup since World War II amid conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, and worsening tensions in the Asia-Pacific. Meanwhile, Kishida is also tasked with difficulties that beset Japan's economy.
Throughout his 40-minute interview-lightly edited for space and clarity, below-with Newsweek President and CEO Dev Pragad, Global Editor in Chief Nancy Cooper and Deputy Foreign Policy Editor Tom O'Connor, Kishida spoke candidly about challenges his nation faces on multiple fronts, but he also expressed confidence that new initiatives being taken under his leadership would help Japan to navigate the deepening uncertainties that lie ahead.
NEWSWEEK: You've just recently returned from a trip to the United States, where you aimed to fortify the Japan-U.S. alliance in your meetings with President Joe Biden. What were your main takeaways from the visit and its achievements?
This story is from the May 10, 2024 edition of Newsweek US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 10, 2024 edition of Newsweek US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Exhausted No More
Political polarization has led to burned-out Americans, weary of civic discourse. The answer lies not in disengagement but, rather, positive engagement
Reef Rehab
Innovative concrete structures mix with corals to defend the coastline during hurricane season
Biden's European Headache
The right-wing surge in the EU elections could hamper the president's ambitions in Ukraine and play into the hands of his election rival, Donald Trump
Lupita Nyong'o
THE TRAILER FOR A QUIET PLACE: DAY ONE (JUNE 28) SHOWS STAR LUPITA Nyong'o carrying a cat around moments before New York City is overtaken by aliens.
Do Films Have a Future?
With the movie industry under threat from streaming and Al, experts predict how Tinseltown will look in 10 years' time
MOST TRUSTED by PHARMACISTS OTC BRANDS in AMERICA 2024
HEADACHES, UPSET STOMACHS AND FEVERS-THESE ARE some of the minor conditions that many people treat with over-the-counter medication.
DISSENTING OPINIONS
BUCKING THEIR TRADITIONAL RESERVE, JUDGES FROM ACROSS THE SPECTRUM ARE PUBLICLY DISAGREEING WITH THE SUPREME COURT JUSTICES AND DECISIONS
'I'm Happy To Disrupt'
Libertarian presidential candidate Chase Oliver talks to Newsweek about Trump, Biden, NATO, Gaza and maximum freedom
Budget Battle
Protesters demonstrate in Kenya's capital city as the country's members of parliament debate a finance bill on June 18.
AMERICA'S BEST SPECIALISTS & SURGEONS
FINDING THE BEST MEDICAL SPECIALIST IS A DAUNTING TASK for anyone requiring specific treatment.
