Fumio Kishida

“Raising taxes is not our objective. It's bolstering and maintaining the country's defense capabilities.”

“Since I entered politics in 1993, I have worked on industrial policy, science and technology policy, and policies for small and medium-sized enterprises. Indeed, one could say my life's work has been to revitalize the Japanese economy.”

“As the only Asian member of the Group of Seven, we are working with the G7 as well as many other countries to impose tough sanctions against Russia and to continue support for Ukraine. I hope that such a response will send a proper message to east Asia, and especially to China.”

“Multilateralism has already played an important role in dealing with the Iranian nuclear issue, leading to more constructive approach by Iran.”

“After the Cold War, a nuclear-free world appeared to be within reach. However, the lack of a collective sense of ownership allowed the issue to fade from the public consciousness.”

“Public support for change is vital, and with that in mind I encourage political leaders and young people from around the world to visit Hiroshima and Nagasaki to see firsthand the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons. Such visits themselves, I believe, would act as a powerful force for nuclear disarmament.”

“As the only country to have suffered the devastation of atomic bombings, Japan will seize every opportunity to... convey the stark realities of these bombing to the world.”

“We will squarely deal with wealth distribution towards the middle class.”

“With regard to relationship with China and the Republic of Korea, I believe it is important to develop future-oriented co-operative relationship and I would like to continue to do so.”

“We cannot properly address the issue of nuclear disarmament without knowing the exact scope of the weapons, both deployed and stockpiled. Another benefit of greater transparency is that it will also help build public confidence that progress is being made on this issue.”

“GX will bring about a major transformation of all sectors, including energy, and the broader economy and society.”

“The G7 is based on key, shared fundamental values, including a commitment to maintain international order.”

“I want to support the travel, entertainment and other industries that have been struggling during the coronavirus pandemic.”

“Foreign exchange rates are determined by various factors.”

“For our part, Japan aims to be a 'partner growing together with Africa' and do all it can to help the continent's efforts to achieve sustainable development.”

“Since the end of World War II Japan has worked as a peaceful nation to promote co-operation and dialogue.”

“I have privately met with victims of the former Unification Church, and directly heard about their horrifying experiences. As a politician, I felt my heart almost burst with grief.”

“I believe that the security of Asia is inseparable from that of Europe.”

“We need to heal Japan-South Korea ties and further develop them based on the amicable and cooperative relationship we have cultivated since ties were normalized.”

“To unify an international community where strife and divisions are coming to a head, we need to further strengthen relationships with the Global South and respond to energy and food crises.”