Fumio Kishida on Shinzo Abe

Fumio Kishida, following the assassination of Shinzo Abe, expressed profound sorrow, describing the event as an "utterly reprehensible" act that pierced the heart of democracy. He reflected on their long history, noting they were first elected to the Diet together 29 years prior and that he served in Abe's cabinet, viewing him as a friend. Kishida paid tribute to Abe's legacy, which he characterized as foundational in areas like national security, diplomacy with the concept of the "Free and Open Indo-Pacific," and pushing for constitutional reform, even if the public viewed some elements as a low priority.

In his memorial address, Kishida pledged to fulfill Abe's last wishes, particularly regarding the return of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea, and vowed to use the foundation laid by his predecessor to build a sustainable and inclusive future for Japan and the world. While Kishida has sought to distance himself from "Abenomics" with his "new form of capitalism," he has continued key policy continuities, such as supporting increased defense spending, though he favors paying for it via tax increases rather than solely new debt as Abe might have preferred. His political standing has also been heavily influenced by controversies stemming from Abe's political faction, such as ties to the Unification Church.