Ukraine’s leader and the US administration have both welcomed Japan’s new leadership and expressed willingness to strengthen ties.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted on social media on Tuesday that he extends his warmest congratulations to Ishiba Shigeru on his election as Prime Minister of Japan.
He said he looks forward to working closely with Ishiba and his Cabinet to further deepen the two countries’ special global partnership and strengthen the true friendship that exists between them.
He added, “Together, we will overcome the interconnected challenges to security and stability, not only in Europe and East Asia, but across the globe as well.”
Zelenskyy also thanked Japan’s outgoing Prime Minister Kishida Fumio. He posted: “I am deeply grateful to the former Prime Minister of Japan Kishida for the strong support and friendship shown to Ukraine in these difficult times. Japan has demonstrated true global leadership, standing as one of Ukraine’s most reliable and closest friends.”
Zelenskyy added, “Your determination and wisdom have not only strengthened the partnership between our nations but have also helped protect the lives of many Ukrainians.”
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council told NHK on Monday, “We look forward to working with the next Japanese prime minister to further strengthen the US-Japan Alliance and advance our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.”