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Former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s recent visit to Taiwan has provided him with a strategic platform to strengthen his foreign policy credentials as he positions himself for the upcoming Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) presidential election. Scheduled for September 2024, the election will determine the party’s next leader, a role that often leads to Japan’s premiership.
During his trip, Ishiba emphasized Japan’s commitment to supporting Taiwan amid rising regional tensions, particularly with China. His stance resonated with the Japanese public, as the nation’s security dynamics increasingly focus on the Asia-Pacific region. By engaging with Taiwanese officials and reiterating Japan’s support for Taiwan’s democratic values, Ishiba aims to appeal to LDP members who prioritize strong foreign policy leadership.
Ishiba’s visit comes at a crucial time as he prepares to challenge other potential candidates in the LDP leadership race. Recent polls have shown that Ishiba is a favored candidate among the Japanese public, particularly among older voters, with 25% supporting his bid for the LDP presidency. This support stems from his reputation for being a policy-focused leader with extensive experience in defense and security matters.
His focus on Taiwan also reflects his broader foreign policy vision, which advocates for Japan to play a more proactive role in regional and global security. Ishiba’s experience and clear stance on Taiwan may distinguish him from other candidates, particularly in a race where voters are looking for a leader with the “ability to implement policy,” a trait Ishiba is widely recognized for.
Ishiba’s Taiwan visit underscores his intent to leverage foreign policy as a key differentiator in his campaign, aiming to secure the 20 LDP lawmaker recommendations needed to officially enter the race. With Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s decision not to seek re-election, the field remains open, making Ishiba’s foreign policy maneuvering all the more significant.