PM Modi Congratulates Japan’s First Woman Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Highlights Strengthening India-Japan Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended his congratulations to Sanae Takaichi, newly elected as Japan’s first woman Prime Minister. He emphasized that the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership is crucial for peace, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

In a post on X, PM Modi said:
“Heartiest congratulations, Sanae Takaichi, on your election as the Prime Minister of Japan. I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Our deepening ties are vital for peace, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific and beyond.”

Global Leaders Extend Best Wishes

Following her election, world leaders began congratulating PM Takaichi.

• UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan wrote on X:
  “I extend my congratulations to Sanae Takaichi on becoming Prime Minister of Japan and wish her success in leading the country towards further progress and development. Building on the foundations of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, I look forward to working together to deepen UAE-Japan ties and foster growth and prosperity for our nations and peoples.”

Takaichi’s Vision for Japan

In her speech to the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) members who elected her, Takaichi emphasized generational cooperation and relentless work:
“I will keep my promises. We can only rebuild by reuniting every generation and with everybody’s participation. Because there are only a few of us, I ask everybody to work; Work like a horse. I myself will cast aside the idea of ‘work-life balance’. I’ll work, work, work, work, and work.”

She added, “To rebuild Japan and the LDP, each must work tirelessly in their area of expertise. I will also work with humility, so please provide me your guidance.”

Election Victory

Takaichi, 64, was elected Prime Minister by Parliament on Tuesday, becoming Japan’s first woman leader. She secured 237 votes in the Lower House, defeating Constitutional Democratic Party leader Yoshihiko Noda, who received 149 votes, thus avoiding a runoff, according to Kyodo News.

Challenges Ahead

PM Takaichi faces a sluggish economy and the task of uniting the ruling LDP, which has been rocked by scandals and internal conflicts. She has already moved to strengthen her political base, reaching an agreement with Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura, leader of the JIP (Nippon Ishin no Kai), as she looks for new political partners.