The new prime minister of Japan attended the ASEAN Summit and emphasized strengthening security cooperation

At the Asian-Japan Summit, Japan's new Prime Minister, Saane Takashi, reaffirmed the political legacy of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe - a commitment to promoting a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) region.

Kyodo News reported that Sawa Takaishi attended the 28th Asian-Japan Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Sunday (October 26). This was her first overseas visit since she became prime minister last Tuesday (October 21).

In his speech, Takashi said that Japan will seek to strengthen its relations with Asia and promote cooperation. The consideration behind Kaohsiung's commitment is believed to be China's strong actions in the maritime field in recent years.

She emphasized that it is of vital importance for Japan to establish closer relations with Southeast Asian countries, as this region not only boasts crucial sea routes but also serves as a significant driving force for global economic growth.

"Japan and Asia have established a relationship of mutual trust and mutual understanding, and are cooperating in multiple fields." "

Japan advocates a free and open Indo-Pacific region and has always supported the "ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific" (AOIP for short).

She also mentioned that Japan plans to expand the Assistance scope of the "Official Security Assistance" (OSA) mechanism, include more ASEAN countries, and promote cooperation in the fields of maritime security and disaster response.

Kaohsiung plans to leave Malaysia for Japan on Monday (27th) to welcome visiting US President Trump, and then travel to South Korea at the end of the month to attend the APEC summit.