Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japanese Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA Yoko unveiled her key word for 2024 at a press conference in Tokyo on Tuesday. 

“On the occasion of this year’s final press conference, let me state my hope and ambition for the next year (of 2024) while reflecting on what we have been through this year,” she said. “As a foreign minister facing ever-changing international situations like those in Ukraine and the Middle East, I recognize the importance of a strong and flexible diplomacy for maintaining a resolute (diplomatic) presence and protecting the national interest despite all the drastic changes we face. For this, I have selected the word ‘shinayaka’ for this coming year. It represents strength and flexibility.”

“Shinakaya,” Kamikawa pointed out, is often used in the realm of economics and security to describe the resilience of the supply chain, but she believes it is also applicable to democracy.

“The truth of democracy is being tested in the international community,” she said. “The democratic system that is built on diverse views sometimes looks insufficient compared to authoritarian systems.  However, it is a flexible system that can embrace diversity and inclusivity.”

“Democracy is crucially important for protecting peace and people’s freedoms. Protecting Democracy is therefore a crucial part of Japan’s diplomacy. Building on this approach I would like to continue my diplomatic efforts into the next year.”

Kamikawa said her priority was maintaining and strengthening the free and open order based on the rule of law and committed herself to maintaining a free and open Indo Pacific (FOIP). In addition, she said she would “strengthen the rule of law” in relation to official security assistance (OSA), economic security and cyber security, calling on her experience as justice minister.