Minister for Administrative Reform, Kono Taro, discusses Japan’s role in a changing global order

Japan’s vaccination progress and its broader role within the post-COVID global order were discussed during an Asia House briefing with Kono Taro, Japan’s Minister for Administrative Reform, today (18 June).

Speaking from Tokyo, Minister Kono – who is also the minister responsible for Japan’s vaccine rollout – gave an update on the country’s inoculation progress ahead of next month’s Olympic Games, and discussed his brief to increase digital capacity within government. The shifts taking place in the rules based international order, and Japan’s position within the Indo-Pacific’s changing geopolitical landscape, were also explored.

Asia House Corporate Members, joining the briefing from markets around the world, put a range of questions to Minister Kono, who previously held defence and foreign ministerial briefs. He was asked about efforts to revitalise the Japanese economy, opportunities in the country’s digital sector, and Japan’s role in tackling climate change. The balance of power in the Indo-Pacific, the situation in Myanmar, and a potential accession of China to CPTPP were also discussed.

Chaired by Asia House Chief Executive Michael Lawrence, the comprehensive briefing saw Corporate Members gain unique insights from a key member of the Japanese government.

FIND OUT MORE about Corporate Membership at Asia House

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST to receive Asia House insights, analysis and research direct to your inbox.