Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi explains his absence from the G7 summit video conference

On the 5th, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi explained on his X (formerly Twitter) account that he was absent from the video conference of the leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) countries held on the evening of the 2nd (Japan time). ``This was hurriedly arranged by France, the country hosting the meeting, on the day of the meeting, and delegates were allowed to attend on their behalf.''

The video conference was held for about 30 minutes starting at 9:30 pm on the 2nd, during which the leaders of each country decided on the coordinated release of oil reserves. From Japan, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Kazuya Endo attended on his behalf and read the outline of the Prime Minister's remarks on his behalf.

In his post, the prime minister emphasized that the main focus of the meeting was "the delay in releasing stockpiles in Europe," as fuel prices continue to soar due to the tense situation in the Middle East. There was a sense that there was little significance for Japan to attend. "Japan has been releasing stockpiles for some time," he explained. He noted that other leaders, including British Prime Minister Burnham, were also absent.

The prime minister dined with Liberal Democratic Party leaders at the prime minister's official residence for over an hour starting at 6:30 p.m. on the 2nd. According to those in attendance, alcohol was served and the prime minister also drank alcohol.