Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, facing challenges in stabilizing his minority government after an election loss in October, plans to prioritize regional security and strengthen Japan-U.S. relations.

He is preparing for talks with President Donald Trump to secure continued U.S. presence in the Asia-Pacific amid growing threats from China and North Korea. I

shiba emphasized the need for Japan to bolster defense capabilities and deepen ties with regional partners like South Korea, the Philippines, and the Quad countries, the Associated Press has reported.

His policy goals also include addressing Japan’s population decline, economic stagnation, and enhancing disaster resilience.

Written by B.C. Begley