Japan’s PM Takaichi Skips G7 Oil Meeting; Opposition Demands Diplomacy Focus

Prime Minister Takaichi skipped a G7 online summit on October 2 where France led talks on diesel price controls, sending Foreign Ministry official Endo Kazuya instead. Opposition Democratic Party leader Tamaki Yuichiro said the absence raises concerns about Japan’s diplomatic standing, arguing only a prime minister can represent the nation in talks with other leaders.

Why the opposition is pushing back

Tamaki criticized the absence at an October 6 press conference, saying it creates a “sense of discomfort” about Japan’s commitment to G7 affairs. He argued that reducing the prime minister’s parliamentary time should free capacity for diplomacy, not reduce it. “If we cut parliamentary time but the prime minister does not engage in diplomacy, the reduction loses its meaning,” Tamaki said, demanding foreign policy become the top priority.

What Takaichi said about the absence

The prime minister explained via X on October 5 that France set the meeting on short notice and proxy attendance was permitted. She noted that the UK prime minister also skipped the session. Japan sent Endo, the G7 sherpa, to represent Tokyo. The meeting focused on diesel price measures as France held the rotating G7 presidency.

North Korea drone threat adds urgency

Tamaki raised alarm about North Korean military capability, citing information that Pyongyang has built production capacity for jet drones with speeds of 500-600 kilometers per hour and range exceeding several thousand kilometers. He warned Japan lacks an interception system for such drones, unlike the air defense systems built for ballistic missiles. Tamaki called for a fundamental overhaul of Japan’s defense strategy, set for year-end review.

Final Thoughts

Takaichi’s G7 absence highlights a debate over how Japan should balance parliamentary duties with diplomatic engagement. With North Korea expanding military capabilities, opposition lawmakers argue the prime minister must prioritize international summits to protect national interests.

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