Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba took center stage in parliament Friday, delivering his first policy speech with promises to rebuild trust after scandals rocked the ruling party and ease the sting of rising living costs. 🌏✨
📉 Inflation Relief & Wage Goals
Ishiba pledged swift action to support households battling inflation, fueled by the yen’s slump and soaring import prices. He vowed to keep aid flowing until wages outpace price hikes, targeting a bold 1,500 yen ($10) minimum hourly wage nationwide by 2030 — up from 1,055 yen today. 💵📈
🔌 Energy Mix Shift?
While Ishiba previously pushed for a zero-nuclear future, his speech struck a cautious balance: prioritizing reactor safety while meeting energy demand. Critics call it a ‘pragmatic pivot’ amid global energy uncertainty. ⚡🌱
🤝 Diplomacy in Focus
The PM emphasized ‘constructive’ dialogue with China and stronger South Korea ties — signaling a steady hand in regional relations. But with a snap election set for October 27, his agenda faces a rapid political test. 🗳️🇯🇵
Can Ishiba’s mix of economic relief and reform win back public trust? The clock’s ticking. ⏳
