Japanese prime minister urges US leadership amid rising global challenges

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida delivers compelling address to the United States Congress, urging Americans to reaffirm their global leadership role and overcome internal uncertainties

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida delivered a compelling address to the United States Congress on Thursday, urging Americans to reaffirm their global leadership role and overcome internal uncertainties. In a poignant speech, Kishida underscored the imperative of maintaining the international order against the backdrop of emerging challenges, particularly from China.

“As we meet here today, I detect an undercurrent of self-doubt among some Americans about what your role in the world should be,” Kishida told a joint session of the House of Representatives and Senate during a state visit to Washington. “The international order that the US worked for generations to build is facing new challenges, challenges from those with values and principles very different from ours.”

Highlighting Japan’s commitment to bolstering cooperation with its ally, the United States, Kishida emphasized the need for shared responsibility in addressing geopolitical threats. “Without US support, how long before the hopes of Ukraine would collapse under the onslaught from Moscow?” he asked. “Without the presence of the United States, how long before the Indo-Pacific would face even harsher realities?”

The Japanese Prime Minister’s address comes amidst a deadlock in Congress over military aid to Ukraine, a situation exacerbated by pressure from certain factions aligned with former President Donald Trump. However, Kishida’s message transcended partisan divides, garnering bipartisan support and applause from lawmakers.

During his visit, Kishida engaged in high-level discussions with President Joe Biden, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced cooperation. “We must stand together against challenges that threaten the rules-based international order,” Kishida remarked. “Our alliance has never been more important.”

Speaking on the escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific, Kishida highlighted China’s military activities as a significant security challenge. “China’s military actions present an unprecedented, and the greatest, security challenge,” he stated. “They pose challenges not only to the peace and security of Japan but to the peace and stability of the international community at large.”

Against the backdrop of historic congressional halls, Kishida’s address marked a rare moment of bipartisan unity as lawmakers from across the political spectrum expressed support for his vision. “Your words resonate deeply with us,” remarked Senator Elizabeth Warren. “We stand united in the face of global challenges.”

Displaying fluency in English and a touch of humor, Kishida captivated his audience, invoking nostalgia with references to his childhood in New York City. “I still miss that show, although I could never translate, ‘Yabba Dabba Doo,'” he said, quoting Fred Flintstone’s signature phrase.

In a final lighthearted note, Kishida reminisced about his fondness for “The Flintstones,” a classic American cartoon, eliciting laughter and camaraderie among the assembled lawmakers. As the world grapples with evolving geopolitical dynamics, Kishida’s address served as a poignant reminder of the enduring partnership between Japan and the United States in safeguarding global stability and prosperity.

Source: AFP