Editorial: Le Monde

• Sanae Takaichi, of the most conservative faction of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), may become the country's first female prime minister.
• Takaichi lacks diplomatic experience and is faced with numerous challenges, including an ailing economy, Sino-US tensions, and a burgeoning alliance between Russia and North Korea.
• Takaichi, a staunch nationalist, threatens to tighten conditions for foreigners despite Japan's demographic decline.
• A strong supporter of Taiwan, Takaichi seeks to strengthen economic relations between Japan and Taiwan.
• The Trump administration is likely to support her wish to drastically increase the defense budget.
• Takaichi's election has been met with defiance from China and little reaction from South Korea.

Conclusion: If Takaichi does not soften her nationalist and ideological stances, Japan risks isolation that could further weaken its economy and security, and heighten regional instability.

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