China sincerely hopes that the next Japanese PM will be "meek and conciliatory" to the country. (Image via Finance Brokerage)

China hopes the next PM will be 'friendly'

China, one of the closest neighboring countries of Japan, stated its hope for the next PM, that he will be more conciliatory. The fact that Japan is a "bridge" between China and the United States (U.S), the next PM should be able to the escalation of tension between China and the U.S in politics and economy.

Despite the election for leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has not begun yet, the most likely candidate and the Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yoshihide Suga, is already seen as the next leader of LDP and soon, the Prime Minister (PM) of Japan. Moreover, it was revealed that Suga received support from Secretary-General Toshihiro Nikai, known for his close ties with the Chinese.

Late August, the former PM, Shinzo Abe, resigned due to his health condition. Struggling to improve their bilateral ties, China hopes Suga will carry on what Abe has left, a balancing act between the U.S and China. Caught in political and economic tension with the U.S, China said that it is willing to improve ties with Japan. As for Japan, bridging the Chinese and Americans will be an advantage.

The election for LDP's leader is taking place on 14 September, and according to the poll by Kyodo, Suga might have secured 77% of votes, further securing his grip for the PM's seat. Last Saturday, Suga announced that improving ties with China will be one of his objectives as PM while adhering to the U.S-Japan alliance for security.

Source: https://bit.ly/33oGnsm