Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, marking a significant moment as she becomes the country’s first female leader. Modi highlighted the crucial role of the growing India-Japan partnership in fostering peace, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
In a message shared on X, Prime Minister Modi stated, “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.”
Takaichi, who also leads Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party, was elected Prime Minister by parliament. Her victory was secured in the first round of voting in the Lower House, where she garnered 237 votes against her opponent Yoshihiko Noda’s 149. This historic election positions Takaichi as Japan’s first woman prime minister.
Following her election, Takaichi emphasized the importance of collective effort and relentless work to rebuild Japan. She stated, “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 stressed the need for individuals to work tirelessly within their areas of expertise to achieve national goals.
Takaichi faces significant challenges, including a sluggish economy and the need to unite her ruling party, which has recently been affected by scandals and internal conflicts. Ahead of her election, she reached an agreement with Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura, a move seen as a step towards broadening her political base.
Other world leaders have also extended their congratulations and best wishes to Prime Minister Takaichi. UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed his confidence in her leadership, wishing her success in guiding Japan toward progress and development. He remarked, “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.”