politics
Japanese PM Takaichi Meets Australian PM; Protesters Rally Against Constitutional Changes
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra, focusing on energy security and defense cooperation. The low-key visit followed large protests in Japan against proposed revisions to the country's pacifist constitution. Takaichi advocated for updating the document to address current security threats.
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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi concluded a brief visit to Australia on Tuesday, where she met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to strengthen ties in defense, energy security, and critical minerals. The leaders issued joint statements emphasizing collaboration to counter economic disruptions from China's dominance in rare earths and fuel-supply issues linked to the ongoing war in Iran.
No major new policies emerged from the discussions, which took place amid heavy rain that forced the cancellation of an outdoor ceremonial welcome. The bilateral meeting extended longer than scheduled, and the pair dined together at the official residence.
Takaichi, known for her interest in music, presented Albanese with a rock album by a Japanese band as a gift. Australian officials noted that Takaichi requested no joint press conference, resulting in limited media engagement during the trip.
Takaichi's visit to Australia followed her comments in Vietnam, where she called for advanced discussions on revising Japan's pacifist constitution. She stated that the document, drafted by U.S. occupation forces after World War II, should be updated to reflect contemporary demands.
Revision efforts target Article 9, which prohibits Japan from using military force to settle international disputes.
“We mustn’t have discussion just for discussion’s sake," — Sanae Takaichi, in Hanoi, according to Kyodo. Takaichi and conservative members of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party argue that the constitution limits Japan's response to threats from North Korea and China. Recent legislation has allowed for collective self-defense, but Takaichi has made reform a key part of her administration since taking office last autumn. Any changes would require a two-thirds majority in both houses of parliament and approval in a national referendum.”
