Ishiba leaves G-7 summit with Upper House election on mind
CALGARY, Canada—Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba wrapped up his first Group of Seven summit, ready to return to domestic politics, including the Upper House election, but without a deal with the United States to show voters.
The G-7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, ended on June 17 without a comprehensive joint declaration by the G-7 leaders.
Still, Ishiba said the summit gave him and the other world leaders the opportunity to exchange frank opinions on international affairs, including the situation in the Middle East.
'Through the intensive discussions during these two days, we were able to demonstrate our united G-7 leadership in addressing the various issues facing the international community,' Ishiba said at a news conference in Calgary on June 17.
'It was a great achievement that we were able to issue a leaders' statement in solidarity on important issues, when the world is facing a new turning point.'
Ishiba said he discussed topics related to North Korea and disaster prevention.
'We will continue to deepen multi-layered cooperation with our allies and like-minded countries, and we will work hard on diplomacy to protect our country's independence, peace and our people's lives,' he said.
The Japanese government had hoped that Ishiba and U.S. President Donald Trump would reach an agreement at the summit on removing or reducing U.S. tariffs, particularly on automobiles. But no deal was reached.
'I will do everything I can to ensure there is no insufficiency in countermeasures against urgent issues, such as rising prices and responding to U.S. tariffs,' Ishiba said in response to a question about the July 20 Upper House election.
Asked how he would respond if opposition parties submitted a no-confidence motion against his Cabinet, Ishiba said, 'I will refrain from commenting on hypothetical questions.'
Regarding the ruling coalition's plan to provide 20,000 yen ($138) in cash handouts to every resident, Ishiba said: 'We are also taking measures to combat rising prices. So, please consider this handout as part of our comprehensive strategy.'
He also expressed his view that 20,000 yen is 'not a small amount.'
In addition, Ishiba frowned on the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan's promise for a temporary lifting of the consumption tax on food items as a countermeasure against rising prices.
'A cash handout is much more effective,' Ishiba said. 'We should be extremely cautious about reducing the consumption tax.'
(This article was written by Junichiro Ishii and Shinya Tokushima.)
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