US President Donald Trump on Monday praised Japan’s historic move in choosing Sanae Takaichi as the nation’s first female prime minister, describing her as a leader of “wisdom and strength.”
“Japan has just elected its first female Prime Minister, a highly respected person of great wisdom and strength,” Trump declared on his Truth Social account. “This is tremendous news for the incredible people of Japan. Congratulations to all!”
Takaichi, 64, officially became head of Japan’s long-dominant Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) over the weekend, paving the way for her formal confirmation as prime minister later this month. “A new era begins,” she announced after her party victory, while acknowledging that a “mountain of work” awaited her in rebuilding the struggling LDP.
Often compared to Margaret Thatcher—whom she cites as an inspiration—Takaichi faces the challenge of reviving support for a party that has ruled Japan for most of the postwar period but is now bleeding voters to smaller factions, including the rising anti-immigration Sanseito.
Before entering politics, Takaichi was known for her love of heavy metal and even played drums in a student band. She is set to become Japan’s fifth leader in five years, continuing a turbulent stretch of short-lived administrations.
Trump, whose relationship with Japan remains a cornerstone of US foreign policy in Asia, is expected to travel to Tokyo in late October, according to Japanese media.
Outgoing prime minister Shigeru Ishiba, who once made an early visit to the White House during Trump’s second term to navigate delicate trade negotiations, congratulated Takaichi on her win and pledged support for a smooth transition.
With inputs from AFP
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