As policy discussions between Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the second-largest opposition party, Nippon Ishin (Japan Innovation Party), make progress toward forming a coalition government, the likelihood of Sanae Takaichi, president of the Liberal Democratic Party, being elected as prime minister in the prime ministerial nomination vote has increased.
This round of talks was attended by President Takaichi, Secretary-General Shunichi Suzuki, and Policy Research Council Chairperson Takayuki Kobayashi. From the Nippon Ishin side, Co-Leader Fumitake Fujita participated along with the secretary-general, policy chief, and other key executives.
After the meeting, Nippon Ishin Co-Leader Fujita stated, "We exchanged views on the 12 policy areas presented yesterday, and there was significant progress. From here, we will move toward final adjustments and wrap up all items."
However, he explained that there are still a few unresolved issues, so an agreement has not yet been reached. It has not been disclosed exactly which of the 12 policy areas proposed by Nippon Ishin have the most significant differences in opinion.
Nippon Ishin plans to support President Takaichi in the prime ministerial nomination vote if policy negotiations with the Liberal Democratic Party are concluded. The combined seats of the two parties in the House of Representatives total 231, which is close to the majority threshold of 233. If they can also secure cooperation from the far-right Sanseito and some independent lawmakers, a majority is possible.
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