Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has pledged to ensure the safety of world leaders during upcoming G7 meetings in Japan. This promise comes after a man threw what appeared to be a smoke bomb at Kishida during a campaign speech, causing shockwaves throughout the nation.
The incident bears resemblance to the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who was fatally shot in July last year while delivering a speech in Nara. On Saturday, Kishida was forced to abandon his address supporting his ruling party's candidate in a Wakayama by-election when an assailant hurled a small explosive device toward him.
Kishida remains resolute despite this alarming event, vowing that it will not disrupt Japan's democratic process as nationwide local elections are ongoing. "We must not allow such acts of violence to hinder our democracy," said Prime Minister Kishida. "I am committed to ensuring the safety and security of all participants at the upcoming G7 summit."
In response to these events, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno announced on Saturday that police would increase security measures for when Kishida hosts the G7 summit in May. "The safety and well-being of world leaders attending this important gathering is our top priority," stated Matsuno.
As investigations continue into both incidents involving Prime Ministers Abe and Kishida, Japanese authorities remain vigilant against any potential threats or disruptions during these crucial times for both their country and global diplomacy efforts.