Japan reappoints PM Takaichi after election

Japan's lower house formally reappointed Sanae Takaichi as prime minister on Wednesday, 10 days after her February 8 election victory; she is due to give a policy speech outlining defence, economic and legislative plans.

Japan's lower house formally reappointed Sanae Takaichi as prime minister on Wednesday, 10 days after her February 8 landslide win in a snap lower-house election. Takaichi, 64, first became prime minister in October and her party secured a two-thirds majority in the recent vote. She has pledged to strengthen Japan's defences, pursue economic measures and introduce new legislation, and she is due to give a policy speech on Friday. The government also faces the immediate task of obtaining approval for the fiscal year budget that was delayed by the election. Key facts: - Takaichi won a two-thirds majority in the February 8 snap lower-house election and was formally reappointed on Wednesday. - She has pledged stronger defence measures and previously suggested Japan could intervene if Taiwan were attacked, a stance that drew criticism from Beijing. - Planned government steps include updating the "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" strategy, establishing a National Intelligence Agency, and beginning discussions on an anti-espionage law. - Economic proposals reported for Friday include suspending the consumption tax on food for two years and a pledge to pursue a "responsible, proactive" fiscal policy with a target on reducing government debt. - The ruling coalition also aims to advance legislation to outlaw destroying the national flag and to accelerate debate on constitutional change and imperial household rules. Summary: Takaichi's reappointment gives her a clear parliamentary mandate to pursue a security-focused and economic policy agenda. Her immediate priorities are a policy speech expected Friday and securing approval of the delayed budget for the fiscal year beginning April 1. How the proposed measures affect Japan's international relations and public finances will become clearer as specific bills and plans are presented.