Khaldon Azhari
TOKYO: Prime Minister TAKAICHI Sanae’s sudden decision to dissolve the House of Representatives and call for a general election for February 8 or 15 has led to the postponement of Egypt’s Foreign Minister’s planned visit to Japan on January 28, according to a senior Foreign Ministry official.
However, the official confirmed to Arab News Japan that UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will visit Japan as planned from February 8 to 10. He will meet Emperor Naruhito and Prime Minister Takaichi. The leaders are expected to sign agreements on space projects and clean energy partnerships.
Tokyo’s local media reports that Japanese officials are worried the election frenzy may overshadow preparations to welcome the UAE President.
Former Prime Minister ISHIBA Shigeru is currently visiting the UAE to assist with preparations for Sheikh Mohamed’s visit, according to the Foreign Ministry official.
Egypt Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty was scheduled to meet with his Japanese counterpart Motegi Toshimitsu to discuss bilateral and Middle Eastern issues, in addition to holding a press conference. Officials are presently working to establish a new date for this visit, diplomatic sources told Arab News Japan.
Takaichi will announce the dissolution of the House of Representatives at the start of the regular Diet session on January 23. Senior ruling party members say the general election will probably be held on February 8, with official campaigning starting January 27.
AloJapan.com