S/ Takaichi Sanae, Prime Minister / The top priority of this Cabinet is addressing the rising cost of living that the people are facing. We will deliver peace of mind to daily life in a reliable and swift manner. With all hands of our nation on deck, let us build a strong economy together.

Takaichi Sanae, who became Japan’s first female prime minister this week, told her first policy speech in parliament on October 24 that she aims to pass a bill to abolish the provisional gasoline tax rate during the current extraordinary Diet session.

She also expressed her intention to provide support for electricity and gas bills during the winter season.

The prime minister added that the government will submit a supplementary budget bill to parliament to support measures against inflation.

Takaichi said she will launch a new growth strategy council aimed at achieving economic growth through investment in cutting-edge technologies.

Apparently mindful that her ruling Liberal Democratic Party holds a minority in both houses of the Diet, Takaichi said she welcomes policy proposals from all political parties as long as they do not conflict with the government’s basic principles.

S/ Takaichi Sanae, Prime Minister / Politics is not about unilateral decisions but about discussing together, struggling together and deciding together. Let us all take a new step forward for Japan, together.

Takaichi said she plans to establish a new national conference involving ruling and opposition parties as well as experts to discuss the structure of social security benefits and burdens.

On foreign affairs, she emphasized her commitment to regain Japan’s diplomatic presence that flourishes at the center of the world.

Touching on US President Donald Trump’s visit to Japan next week, the Japanese leader pledged to work on building a relationship of trust with him while elevating the bilateral relationship to even greater heights.