Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s abrupt cancellation of his visit to Central Asia has raised concerns within the Japanese government and the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. The trip, which included stops in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Mongolia, was called off due to an increased risk of a Nankai Trough earthquake.
While many understand the prime minister’s decision to prioritize safety in the face of a potential natural disaster, some officials see this as a missed opportunity for Japan to strengthen its diplomatic ties in a region considered vital due to its proximity to China and Russia.
The cancellation has sparked debate within the government and the LDP about the impact it may have on Japan’s relations with Central Asia. Despite the setback, Kishida’s focus on addressing domestic concerns has been commended by some, while others worry about the potential repercussions on Japan’s international standing.