Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Saturday pledged to achieve a “breakthrough” in resolving the decades-old issue of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea, indicating she would consider all options including direct summit talks.
The remarks came at a rally in Tokyo demanding the return of abductees, where Takaichi urged Kim Jong-un to take a “courageous step” together for the benefit of both nations. “Whatever it takes, I will resolve the abduction issue,” she said.
No specific numbers or timelines were provided. The abduction issue has long strained bilateral relations, with Japan officially recognizing 17 citizens as having been abducted by North Korean agents during the 1970s and 1980s.
A diplomatic breakthrough could reshape regional dynamics, potentially reopening channels for broader engagement with Pyongyang. However, previous efforts have stalled amid North Korea's nuclear ambitions and its refusal to fully account for the abductees.
Critics warn that Pyongyang may use the abduction issue as leverage without making substantive concessions, as it has done in past negotiations.