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NEW DELHI: On his maiden state visit to the US, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida spoke to a joint session of Congress, suggesting that American lawmakers are grappling with “self-doubt” precisely when strong US leadership is crucial, according to The Hill’s report on Friday.
“You believed that freedom is the oxygen of humanity. The world needs the United States to continue playing this pivotal role in the affairs of nations,” Japanese PM said.
“And yet, as we meet here today, I detect an undercurrent of self-doubt among some Americans about what your role in the world should be,” Kishida added.
The Hill reported that House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) presided over the first-ever address by a foreign leader, amid a conference marked by disorder. A handful of GOP lawmakers, often obstructing legislative efforts based on their own critiques, have contributed to the tumultuous atmosphere.
Kishida’s government has explicitly linked backing Ukraine in its defensive conflict against Russia to the crucial deterrence of potential Chinese aggression against Taiwan and the prevention of a conflict in East Asia.
While Harris and other attendees rose to their feet in applause, Johnson remained seated as Kishida remarked, “As I often say, Ukraine of today may be East Asia of tomorrow.”
In his address, Kishida highlighted that China’s military maneuvers pose an unprecedented challenge to the peace and stability of the global community.
“China’s current external stance and military actions present an unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge, not only to the peace and security of Japan, but to the peace and stability of the international community at large.”
Kishida’s plea resonated with a rare consensus across party lines in Congress, acknowledging China as the foremost threat to the current US-led global order.
Japanese PM’s appeal was specifically targeted at Republicans who perceive US involvement on the international stage as a diversion from addressing domestic issues, according to The Hill.
(With inputs from agencies)



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