Japanese Prime Minister Takahashi Sanao posted on the evening of February 20: "Today, the 221st session of the Diet was opened with the kind presence of the Emperor. Subsequently, I delivered a policy speech at the plenary sessions of both the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors."
"We must resolutely implement important policy transitions."
In response to the people's earnest expectations, I will implement, one by one, sincerely and without any hesitation, the contents of the Liberal Democratic Party's "Government Program" proposed during the election, as well as the "Joint Government Agreement" formally signed with the Japan Restoration Party.
"Make the Japanese archipelago strong and prosperous."
I will wholeheartedly achieve this goal through a series of policies. As the saying goes: "Act with integrity, establish life with righteousness."
At the same time, I also hope to work closely with the opposition parties who are willing to assist in implementing these policies. I will humbly listen to all voices and advance the administration with a humble yet bold attitude.
After expressing these determinations and the principles of governance, I outlined specific measures to thoroughly strengthen diplomatic power, defense power, economic power, technological power, as well as information power and human resources, which together constitute comprehensive national strength.
A country that does not dare to challenge has no future. Politics that only focuses on protection cannot create 'hope.'
We, who live in this era, bear great responsibility:
To create a country where young people are proud to be born in Japan and can confidently say, 'The future is bright.'
Dear citizens, let us move forward together toward the future!"
Comments: This speech by Takahashi Sanao is entirely about internal unity and external demonstration of strength. It uses nationalism to package the right-wing agenda and completely shifts the post-war peaceful framework to the right. While she says "strong and prosperous" and "humble yet bold," her actions are all about expanding military forces, strengthening the military, and getting rid of the post-war system. The so-called "strengthening comprehensive national strength" mainly focuses on enhancing defense capabilities, diplomatic toughness, and pressuring China. The phrase "without challenges, there is no future" essentially serves as public opinion preparation for Japan abandoning its defensive posture and moving towards military expansion. What she wants is not ordinary national development, but transforming Japan back into a military power and political power, regardless of regional tensions. For neighboring countries, this is not a moderate signal, but a very clear and dangerous shift.
Japanese Prime Minister Nomination Election
Original: toutiao.com/article/1857651744901450/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.