S/ Takaichi Sanae, Japanese Prime Minister / We have begun a strong and steady journey to restore Japan’s diplomacy that flourishes at the center of the world. I also held candid talks with China and South Korea, which are important neighboring countries. I believe these events have become the foundation for moving forward with future summit diplomacy.

Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae made the remarks on November 1 after attending meetings related to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea.

Looking back on the series of summit talks she took part in just after becoming Japan’s first female prime minister, Takaichi said she feels the in-person meetings and casual conversations have narrowed the distance between her and fellow leaders.

Her diplomatic engagements included hosting US President Donald Trump in Tokyo.

Takaichi denied the possibility of renegotiating the tariff agreement with the United States, saying that a change in prime minister should not alter commitments made between governments.

She emphasized the importance of moving toward the promotion of mutual benefits for Japan and the United States and of Japan’s economic growth.

With Cabinet approval ratings and stock prices remaining high after Takaichi took office in late October, there is speculation that she might dissolve the House of Representatives for a snap general election.

But she dismissed such speculation.

S/ Takaichi Sanae, Japanese Prime Minister / If people have high expectations, then the important next step is to implement the policies we promised everyone, starting with economic measures, and move them forward. Right now, I have no time to think about dissolution.

On the domestic front, Takaichi commented on the plan to reduce the number of parliamentary seats, one of the agreements between her Liberal Democratic Party and the Japan Innovation Party, also known as Nippon Ishin, when they formed a coalition.

The prime minister emphasized the importance of discussing the matter sincerely with opposition parties that are cautious about the plan.