October 1, 2025

Japan’s political scene is like a rollercoaster! In just five years, the country sees its fourth Prime Minister fight for the top job. After a long, stable eight years under Abe, the political drama returned as Prime Minister Ishiba stepped down on 7th September, barely eleven months after taking charge. This unstable trend worries many because quick leadership changes have hurt Japan’s foreign policy before, especially its ties with the US. For example, earlier governments couldn’t agree inside their parties on key issues, or they messed up on big events like nuclear disaster responses. Abe’s time as Prime Minister showed what strong leadership can do. His steady hand brought clear foreign policies and a bold idea called the ‘Confluence of the two Seas’—a vision linking the Indo-Pacific, especially India and Japan. This vision sparked a warm bond between the two countries. Ishiba tried to keep this momentum alive. Just a week before quitting, he met India’s Prime Minister Modi at their 15th Annual Summit. They promised big things! Japan vowed to double its investment in India to nearly ₹6 lakh crore in 10 years and boost trade under their existing agreement. They even planned an exciting new program to exchange over 500,000 people between the countries in five years, promoting tourism and cultural ties. But with Ishiba gone, will these plans sail smoothly or hit rough waters? Now, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is gearing up for a nail-biting presidential race on October 4th. The big names fighting it out are Sanae Takaechi, the Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, and Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi. Others in the race are Takayuki Kobayashi and Toshimitsu Motegi. Even though the LDP runs a minority coalition, the winner will likely become Japan’s next Prime Minister. Meet Sanae Takaechi—the only woman in the race and from the strong Abe faction. She’s famous for her tough stance on defense and security, openly supporting Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and even controversial visits to the Yasukuni Shrine. Called a “China-hawk,” she sees India as a key partner to balance regional security. She also worked on science and tech exchanges with India before. If she wins, expect her to continue Abe’s legacy with India playing a star role. On the other side is Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of a former PM known for warming ties with India. His playful, youthful views include supporting same-sex marriage—a rare opinion in his party. His father boosted India-Japan ties with initiatives like the 'eight-fold plan' to enhance Asian relations. Shinjiro might bring fresh energy and youth appeal to the partnership. Yoshimasa Hayashi, with his long experience as a cabinet member and former foreign minister, offers a middle path focused on economic and defense issues. His leadership promises steady Indo-Pacific cooperation, keeping India right at the center. Japan’s future depends on who wins. Ishiba’s exit dims hopes for quick reforms in the party. The LDP needs to prove it can change and stay trusted by the people. But no matter who leads, the India-Japan partnership is strong. Shared interests like countering China’s rise and boosting trade are too important to fall apart. Some issues might slow down, though. Takaechi’s view on stricter visa rules could affect Indians living in Japan. Some projects may get delayed or need revisiting. Still, many agreements agreed “in principle” will likely move forward, with tweaks. The new Prime Minister will want to show stability and keep India-Japan friendship shining bright on the global stage. So, as Japan’s political drama unfolds, Indian eyes stay wide open. Big moments lie ahead for both nations!

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Tags: Japan politics, India-japan relations, Ldp leadership race, Sanae takaechi, Shinjiro koizumi, Yoshimasa hayashi,