The leader's counteroffensive came at a critical time, sandwiched between two summits — the Group of Seven summit in May and a NATO summit earlier this month.
At a G7 summit, Yasuhiro Nakasone took the lead and helped to heal a growing rift between France and the United States.
Amid the rise of authoritarian regimes, unity among the G7 countries, with their shared values, has become increasingly significant.
A rapid turnover of leaders, the fallout of the war in Ukraine and an ever-worsening energy crisis are threatening stability in the home of parliamentary democracy.
To cope with current and future threats and problems, the government must consider a plan that integrates issues related to both national security and economic interests.
Executives of the Asia Pacific Initiative discuss the part Tokyo should play as Russia's invasion of Ukraine approaches six months.
While Russia seems wary of interventions by the U.S. or NATO, and is trying to avoid them, economic sanctions placed on Moscow have done little to halt the war.
While the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, Japan must remain actively engaged if it is to help protect a functioning global system.
Post-World War II, Japan has had to contend with its economy, its relationship with China and the United States' influence in the region, leading an uncertain approach to Beijing.
By labeling his foreign policy stance as “realism,” the prime minister is apparently trying to avoid being criticized by conservative members of the party.
