Takaichi Confirmed as Japan's PM, Allies with Nippon Ishin

Sanae Takaichi was elected leader of the Liberal Democratic Party and confirmed by the Diet as Japan’s first female prime minister after cobbling a governing majority when Komeito exited the coalition and the LDP formed a new alliance with the more hawkish Nippon Ishin. A long-standing conservative and protégé of Shinzo Abe, Takaichi is expected to pursue stronger defence capabilities, closer security and economic ties with the United States, and a hawkish stance on Taiwan. Major partners including the United States, India, Singapore, Taiwan and South Korea officially congratulated her and signalled readiness to deepen cooperation on security, trade and strategic partnerships. Beijing initially declined to offer immediate congratulations and criticised her Taiwan stance, though state media later said it hoped to “advance” ties with Tokyo. Seoul sent veteran diplomat Lee Hyuk to Tokyo and emphasised a desire for continuity and pragmatic, interest-driven diplomacy despite concerns about historical and nationalist strains under the new government.