Takaichi vows to make Japan ‘strong’, says no to ‘reckless’ fiscal policy
South China Morning Post
by Agence France-PresseFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has vowed to strengthen Japan's position on the global stage, emphasizing the need for national resilience amid escalating security threats from China, Russia, and North Korea. In her policy address following a significant election victory, Takaichi highlighted the urgency of addressing these challenges, which she described as the most complex since World War II. She underscored China's assertive actions in the East and South China Seas and its expanding military presence near Japan, alongside threats from Russia and North Korea.
Takaichi announced plans to revise Japan's defense policies, including adapting to emerging forms of warfare and preparing for prolonged conflicts. Her strategy includes accelerating discussions on loosening export restrictions on lethal weapons, aiming to enhance deterrence for allies while bolstering Japan's defense industry and technological capabilities. This shift reflects a broader strategic pivot towards national security and economic resilience.
This focus on strengthening defenses not only underscores the growing tensions in the region but also has implications for global alliances and trade dynamics. As
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/20/2026