Japan’s Ishiba Seeks Cross-Party Relief Plan, Rules Out Cabinet Shake-Up

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said political stability remains his top priority as the country confronts rising living costs and longer-term demographic pressures. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Ishiba ruled out expanding the ruling coalition or reshuffling cabinet posts, underscoring that continuity is essential while multiple economic challenges mount. Ishiba signaled a willingness to work with opposition parties on targeted relief measures, aligning with the Constitutional Democratic Party’s call for temporary cash payouts to help households absorb higher prices. He rejected the opposition’s broader tax-cut plan, arguing it would take too long to implement and would delay urgently needed support. The premier also urged lawmakers to build a cross-party platform to address funding for swelling pension and social-welfare costs. He said he has reached a common understanding with Treasury Vice-Minister Bessent on the need for sustainable wage growth and will seek multiparty backing for policies that lift salaries while containing inflation.