Kishida vows to lead with 'trust and empathy'

TOKYO: In his first policy speech on Friday, Japan's new Prime Minister Fumio Kishida promised to strengthen pandemic management and health care in case of another coronavirus resurgence, and turn around the battered economy while bolstering the country's defenses against threats from China and North Korea.

Tasked with a crucial mission of rallying public support ahead of national elections expected on October 31, Kishida promised to pursue politics of "trust and empathy."