Shinzo Abe vows to focus on reviving Japan’s economy

World Today

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe began a new term after winning snap elections earlier this month. He has also re-appointed most of his cabinet members with the addition of a new defense minister and vowed to focus on the economy. CCTV’s Terrence Terashima reported this story from Tokyo.

Abe has reportedly said that continuity of the cabinet is important to pursue economic recovery measures.

The Prime Minister’s economic policies are known as “Abenomics” and have suffered some setbacks, including the forced delay of a sales tax hike until 2017, after disappointing GDP figures showed that Japan could be slipping back into recession.

Many people said they are relieved that the consumption tax hike was postponed, but there are still worries that economic recovery won’t happen unless Abe steps up his economic plans.

Another of public concern include legalizing the use of collective self-defense and changing the Japan’s pacifist constitution. It’s expected that the change will be presented to Japan’s Diet, or parliament.

Most Japanese fear that Japan’s defense force will turn into an army.

Experts said providing assurances for economic recovery is essential for Abe next year to maintain public confidence, as unpopular defense and constitution issues could trim his public support.

If public support drops too drastically, analysts Abe may have a hard time keeping his post as president of his party, the LDP, during its party election in September.