Kono Taro, Minister for Administrative Reform, Japan

Please note that the time of this briefing has changed since first publication. The briefing now takes place at 10:30-11:30 UK time

Despite early success in stopping the initial spread of COVID-19 last year, Japan’s slow vaccine roll-out has faced criticism, putting at risk its economic recovery and plans to host the Olympic Games in July. However, with Japan’s vaccine supply now secured and the Moderna and, tentatively, AstraZeneca vaccines recently approved, there is hope that the government will be able to hit its target of vaccinating all citizens aged 65 or over by the end of July.

To update Corporate Members on Japan’s vaccination progress and the country’s broader economic prospects, Asia House will welcome Kono Taro, Japan’s Minister for Administrative Reform and the man tasked with delivering Japan’s vaccination programme, for a briefing on Friday 18 June.

Having previously held positions including Foreign Minister and Minister of Defense under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Minister Kono is known as one of Japan’s most outspoken politicians and clearest foreign policy thinkers. As well as updating Corporate Members on Japan’s vaccination roll-out, Minister Kono will discuss his efforts to accelerate digital adoption throughout Japan, and what success in this endeavour may mean for Japan’s place in an increasingly digital world.

Minister Kono will also reflect upon the outcomes of the recent G7 summit in Cornwall, and consider Japan’s strategic role as allies including the US, the UK and the EU re-focus their foreign policy strategies towards the Indo-Pacific region.

This digital briefing is being held exclusively for Asia House Corporate Members. Find out more about Corporate Membership at Asia House.

To register interest in joining this briefing, please email Edward Danks: edward.danks@asiahouse.co.uk