Diet remains stalled as LDP calls for normalization, opposition demands PM's attendance

LDP's Hagiuida calls for Diet normalization, opposition demands PM's attendance LDP Acting Secretary-General Koichi Hagiuida said in a speech in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture on the 4th, "I hope we can normalize things somehow by next week," showing a humble attitude in seeking cooperation from the opposition. Meanwhile, Komeito leader Junya Ogawa emphasized that Prime Minister Takaichi's attendance at party leader debates and the budget committee is essential. Five opposition parties continue to refuse deliberations, and there is no prospect of normalization before the end of the Diet session on the 17th. 123

Takaichi administration's consumption tax cut faces uncertain future amid ruling-opposition conflict and funding difficulties The bipartisan National Council on Social Security is struggling to reach an interim conclusion on the food consumption tax cut sought by the Takaichi administration. The LDP's Tax Commission Chairman Onodera proposed a plan combining a temporary reduction to 1% with benefits, but opposition parties have strongly objected, calling it a "de facto tax increase." Within the LDP, voices calling for a "zero consumption tax rate" and concerns over insufficient funding have emerged, and the Diet deadlock is further slowing discussions. 4

Rift between PM's Office and LDP executive; information sharing 'clog' contributes to Diet deadlock Behind the ongoing Diet deadlock, a reality has emerged where information sharing between Prime Minister Takaichi's office team and the LDP executive has stalled. LDP executives have expressed dissatisfaction that "the Prime Minister is not feeling the sense of crisis," while the PM's Office has also shown displeasure with the LDP's moves, making adjustments difficult due to a gap in perceptions on both sides. 5

Prime Minister Takaichi returns from India visit, builds 'sibling' relationship with PM Modi Prime Minister Takaichi returned home on the 3rd after a three-day visit to India. In talks with Prime Minister Modi, she emphasized their personal trust, calling each other 'sister' and 'brother.' They agreed to cooperate in a wide range of fields including economic security and clean energy. She is scheduled to attend the House of Councillors Audit Committee on Monday the 6th, but there is still no prospect of Diet normalization. 67

US Micron breaks ground on new building in Hiroshima with 1.5 trillion yen investment; METI minister pledges support US semiconductor giant Micron Technology announced on the 4th plans to build a new manufacturing building at its Hiroshima plant and begin production of next-generation memory. The total investment is approximately 1.5 trillion yen, and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has decided to provide up to 500 billion yen in subsidies. METI Minister Akazawa stated, "Securing a stable supply system is extremely important," indicating continued support. 89

Tokyo hosts commemorative event for US 250th anniversary; Trump sends video message A reception hosted by the US Embassy in Japan was held in Tokyo on the 3rd to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. President Trump emphasized the importance of freedom in a video message, saying, "I am not a king." US Ambassador Glass and Defense Minister Koizumi attended, reaffirming the strengthening of the Japan-US alliance. 1011