Prime Minister Kishida finished the first day of “condolence diplomacy” with more than 10 foreign leaders on the 26th, and in a meeting with Vice President Harris of the United States, he expressed his desire to further develop bilateral relations, following the wishes of former Prime Minister Abe. showed that.
Prime Minister Kishida said, “It is my duty to carry on (former Prime Minister Abe’s) will, develop the diplomatic legacy, and further develop bilateral relations.”
Furthermore, Prime Minister Kishida called for cooperation toward the realization of a free and open Indo-Pacific advocated by former Prime Minister Abe.
In response, Vice President Harris said, “America’s commitment to Japan’s defense is unwavering,” and added, “When Japan is threatened, we are ready to stand together.”
After that, a dinner party was held with Vice President Harris and others, and it is believed that they exchanged opinions on the growing tensions in Taiwan and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The condolence diplomacy is scheduled to be held for three days until the 28th, and Prime Minister Kishida plans to hold talks with foreign dignitaries from more than 30 countries.
On the other hand, opposition parties and civic groups appealed against the “state funeral” inside and outside the Diet.
Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan’s former policy chief Junya Ogawa said, “Tomorrow Mr. Kishida will force it, but I would like him to regret his decision.”
Social Democratic Party Leader Mizuho Fukushima “It’s not too late, cancel it now”
On the night of the 26th, in front of Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, lawmakers from opposition parties such as the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and citizens’ groups opposed to state funerals said, “It is impossible to force condolences.” And so on.
In the Diet, journalist Shuntaro Torigoe and other experts, including university professors, held a rally to oppose the state funeral.
Journalist Shuntaro Torigoe said, “The state funeral for Mr. Shinzo Abe, which the Kishida Cabinet is trying to do, is a minority among the people. It is not a majority.”
On the 27th, demonstrations are planned around the Budokan where the national funeral will be held and in front of the main gate of the Diet.