The Japanese government, led by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, is under increased scrutiny due to a political funds scandal, prompting aggressive measures to pass the fiscal 2024 budget. Amidst this political climate, Kishida has canceled his planned trip to South Korea on March 20, a move seen as a relief to Korean bureaucrats and PPP politicians concerned about its impact on the upcoming National Assembly election in April. Furthermore, Kishida has denied any intentions to dissolve the Lower House in April, contrary to speculation that the swift passage of the budget might lead to a snap election. In addition, Kishida is scheduled to deliver a speech to a joint session of Congress on April 11, an invitation extended by Hill leadership, including Johnson and other Congressional leaders. Kishida has also expressed a strong determination to address the issue of North Korea abductees.
Japan PM vows strong determination in repatriating North Korea abductees https://t.co/xbB285pjmM
Hill leadership has announced that Kishida Fumio, PM of Japan, will deliver a speech to a joint session of Congress April 11.
Johnson, other Congressional ldrs invite Japanese PM Kishida Fumio to speak before a Jt Mtg of Congress on April 11
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has denied that the prompt passage of the government's fiscal 2024 draft budget last week was because he had plans to call a snap election in April. https://t.co/6bNvA5SgHW
Kishida denies intent to dissolve Lower House in April https://t.co/Q0ou6mmCs1
PM Kishida will not be going to South Korea on March 20, and will postpone the trip. This news will come as a relief to many Korean bureaucrats and PPP politicians who were worried about the potential political impact on April’s Natl Assembly election. https://t.co/As97bSJTHO
The government and ruling bloc have taken aggressive measures to pass the fiscal 2024 budget, as scrutiny intensifies over a high-profile political funds scandal. https://t.co/8wWRHaIbkq