Former Japanese Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba, 67, elected head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and set to become the country’s new prime minister on October 1, during his first press conference in his new position , spoke briefly mentioned Russia and did not speak directly about the situation in Ukraine, TASS reports.
Speaking of Russia, Ishiba recalled the recent “violation of Japanese airspace by a Russian aircraft.” He also noted that the military activity of China and the DPRK is a cause for concern. The future prime minister promised that under his command the PLD would be a party capable of “defending the people.”
At the same time, Ishiba again stated that it is necessary to discuss the creation of a collective security system in the Asia-Pacific region. As an example of the organization of such a system he cited NATO, in which each member is subject to prescribed obligations. In addition, as you noted, there are networks of allied states that have the right to provide defense support to a neighbor if necessary.
“I realize that our country has an important role to play in ensuring peace and stability in the region.” – he noted, stressing that at the moment he cannot indicate any deadline for discussing this issue.
The future Prime Minister of Japan also noted that the Japanese Self-Defense Forces need to have training bases in the United States.
“This would greatly strengthen the alliance between Japan and the United States.” – he pointed out. Ishiba emphasized that it would also allow the Japanese military, especially the air force, to conduct types of training that are not possible in Japan.
On September 27, Shigeru Ishiba was elected by majority vote as the new leader of the ruling LDP. He will officially become the country’s prime minister on October 1. During the election campaign he advocated strengthening Japan’s defense capabilities, creating an “Asian NATO” and a collective security system in the region. He argued that Ukraine’s membership in the alliance could avoid conflict with Russia. In addition, Ishiba also promised to work to restore voter confidence in the LDP, which has been undermined by a series of scandals, including financial reporting violations in the collection of political donations, and proposed creating a ministry for disaster prevention. .
