Japanese Foreign Minister to Attend Trump's Second Inauguration
Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya will attend Donald Trump's inauguration for his second term as president, ensuring that a high-ranking official from a key Asian ally is present for the event. Iwaya was invited by Trump's camp and has accepted, confirming earlier Japanese media reports.
This will be the first time a Japanese cabinet member attends the swearing-in of a U.S. president. Iwaya is hoping to arrange a meeting with Senator Marco Rubio, Trump's pick for secretary of state, during his visit to the United States.
Iwaya's visit to the U.S. comes as Japan seeks to maintain good relations with Trump during his second administration. Japan, a long-time U.S. ally, enjoyed good relations with Trump during his first term.
Iwaya will also visit South Korea, the Philippines, and Palau during his trip. In South Korea, he will discuss security cooperation between the two countries and their mutual U.S. ally in the face of China's growing regional power. In the Philippines, he will discuss the U.S. treaty alliance with the country. And in Palau, he will discuss the island nation's reliance on Washington for economic support and defense.
The Financial Times reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping would send a high-level envoy to Trump's inauguration. Xi could send Han Zheng, a vice president who sometimes stands in for him in ceremonial roles, or Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
12 Comments
Karamba
I believe it's a mistake for Japan to send a high-ranking official to Trump's inauguration. He does not represent the values of democracy and human rights that Japan stands for.
Matzomaster
I am confident that Trump and Iwaya will be able to work together to improve relations between the two countries.
Rotfront
This is a positive step for Japan. I hope that it will lead to more cooperation between the two countries.
Matzomaster
I am deeply disappointed by this decision. I hope that the Japanese government will reconsider and send a representative to a different inauguration.
Rotfront
I believe that Japan is making the right decision by sending a representative to Trump's inauguration.
Leonardo
This is a sign that Japan is taking Trump seriously and wants to work with him.
Mariposa
This is a good opportunity for Japan to build a stronger relationship with Trump and his administration.
Muchacha
I am so disappointed in my country. I hope that they will change course and start standing up for what is right.
Bella Ciao
I am glad that Japan is sending a representative to Trump's inauguration. It shows that they are committed to maintaining a strong relationship with the United States.
Muchacho
I am glad that Japan is not giving in to the pressure from some other countries to boycott the inauguration.
Bella Ciao
This is a terrible decision by the Japanese government. It shows that they are not taking the threat of Trump seriously.
ZmeeLove
This is a good opportunity for Japan to show the world that it is a strong and independent country.