Despite often not being given due credit, Prime Minister Kishida and his administration have realized several transformative economic and security reforms.
Holding lawmakers individually accountable for public funds is one priority of the Diet. National security and imperial succession matters need attention too.
The security clearance system would also apply to the private sector, still allowing business opportunities without compromising sensitive national interests.
The initial H3 launch failed in 2023, making this launch more important than ever for Japan's economic security and international participation in space.
In his policy speech, Prime Minister Kishida focused on restoring public trust, but left understated the severe security environment Japan faces today.
Previously, the lack of a security clearance system became a bottleneck to Japanese companies' joint development with US and EU governments and research institutes.
The American resentment toward the US Steel buyout is outdated and hypocritical — it neglects the trust that Japan has consistently demonstrated since the war.
Nippon Steel envisions the two companies becoming the "best steelmaker with world-leading capabilities." Both can move forward by combining their strengths.
Toshiba owns power semiconductor, nuclear power, and other technologies important for national security. The new owners aim to keep those from leaking overseas.
While there are still hurdles to be overcome, by combining its output with US Steel's, Nippon Steel would become the world's third-largest steelmaker.
Climate change is the single greatest existential threat facing the Blue Pacific and the Indian Ocean, putting people and entire regional ecosystems at risk.
The PM's policy speech addressed many issues but failed to firmly address the nation's security and his tax cut proposal seemed designed to curry public favor.