Takaichi: New Japanese Prime Minister Calls Korea APEC Summit "A Valuable Opportunity to Meet World Leaders"

At Her First Press Conference as Prime Minister
"APEC Is an Important Regional Cooperation Framework"

New Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated on the 21st, "The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit to be held in Korea next week is a valuable opportunity to meet with the leaders of various countries."

During her first press conference after taking office, held at the Prime Minister's residence that night, Prime Minister Takaichi said, "APEC is an important regional cooperation framework," expressing this view.

She emphasized, "I will stress the importance of maintaining and strengthening a free and fair economic order based on rules," and added, "I want to take the time to build relationships of trust and for Japan to regain its presence and conduct diplomacy that flourishes at the center of the world."

On this day, Prime Minister Takaichi did not make any particular comments regarding Japan-Korea relations.

The APEC summit will be held in Gyeongju from October 31 to November 1. Prime Minister Takaichi also indicated her intention to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit, which will be held in Malaysia on the 26th.

Regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to Japan, Prime Minister Takaichi said, "The Japan-U.S. alliance is the cornerstone of our country's diplomatic security," and added, "If I have the opportunity to meet with the President, I hope to deepen the relationship of trust between our leaders through candid exchanges of views."

President Trump is expected to visit Korea after his stay in Japan from the 27th to the 29th.