Sanae Takaichi and the Geopolitical Implications for India
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: International Relations (India-Japan relations, Quadrilateral Security Dialogue - Quad, Indo-Pacific region); World Geography (Map Locations - Japan and its neighbours); World History (Post-WWII developments); Current events of international importance.
Mains:
General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations): Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests (India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, Quad); Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.
Key Highlights from the News
Sanae Takaichi was elected as the first female leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (Liberal Democratic Party - LDP). She is likely to become Japan's first female Prime Minister.
Takaichi, a follower of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, is known as a socially conservative right-winger.
Major challenges she might face if she becomes Prime Minister:
Leading a fractious coalition government without a majority.
Her hardliner stance on China could cause tensions in the region.
The argument to amend Japan's pacifist constitution.
Visiting the controversial Yasukuni shrine could worsen relations with South Korea.
The country's economic stagnation and demographic decline.
Significance for India:
Takaichi's victory is generally welcomed in India.
This will help continue the India-Japan ties that strengthened during Shinzo Abe's tenure.
In an uncertain Quad and Indo-Pacific context, a strong leader in Tokyo is beneficial for India.
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