InsideJapan News Network

A funding scandal has led to a change in Japan's foreign minister post holder.

Seiji Maehara stepped down from the post last week after he admitted receiving a political donation from a foreign national of South Korea.

Takeaki Matsumoto, the former deputy foreign minister, has been promoted to foreign minister, in a move that Japanese political experts believe will create stability for the country despite the current domestic political happenings.

Mr Matsumoto is the great-great-grandson of Japan's first prime minister and is seen as a key figure in the ruling Democratic party. However, there are some concerns that he may not support the views of his predecessor on the need for strong US/Japan ties.

Although, officials within the Japanese government told the Financial Times that it is unlikely that he will attempt to cut ties in the current climate.

"Smooth and stable management of US relations is the top priority at the moment, regardless of who is in charge at the ministry," explained an unnamed official.

Written by Mark Smith.
 


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