Outgoing PM Kishida to Meet Biden During U.S. Visit in Late September

Last updated on September 12th, 2024 at 12:18 pm

The Yomiuri newspaper reports that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning a U.S. visit in late September, where he will attend the U.N. General Assembly and might meet with President Joe Biden.

The visit likely spanning several days starting September 22 comes as Kishida prepares to step down from his role. He recently withdrew from the leadership race for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), signaling the end of his term as prime minister when his party leadership concludes in late September. The exact date for the LDP election is yet to be determined, though it could occur as early as September 20.

Should this timing align Kishida may address the General Assembly following Japan’s parliamentary selection of his successor, who will also serve as the next prime minister. Some in the Japanese government reportedly believe that it may not be ideal for Kishida’s successor to establish a close relationship with Biden.

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