Japan's Leadership Race: Koizumi vs. Veteran Rivals Ishiba and Takaichi

Shinjiro Koizumi, a young and U.S.-educated candidate, positions himself as a change leader in Japan's leadership race. Veteran politicians Shigeru Ishiba and Sanae Takaichi propose different foreign policies that could affect Japan's diplomacy, especially regarding U.S. and South Korea relations. The Liberal Democratic Party's decision on Friday will shape Japan's future amid global political shifts.

Shinjiro Koizumi, the young and U.S.-educated heir to a prominent political dynasty, has emerged as a change candidate in Japan's leadership race. Despite his appeal, veteran competitors Shigeru Ishiba and Sanae Takaichi are proposing bold policies that could impact Japan's diplomatic relations.

The Liberal Democratic Party, ruling Japan for much of the post-war era, is set to select a new leader to succeed Fumio Kishida on Friday. This leadership choice comes at a crucial time as Tokyo aims to strengthen ties with Washington and manage a delicate relationship with South Korea, facing an assertive China.

Koizumi, 43, advocates for a generational shift while maintaining strong U.S. relations. Meanwhile, Ishiba, the 67-year-old former defense minister, and Takaichi, 63, Japan's economic security minister, may pursue less U.S.-aligned foreign policies. The outcome of this unpredictable election will significantly shape Japan's international stance.

(With inputs from agencies.)