Minister for Foreign Affairs (Japan) facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Quick facts for kids Minister of Foreign Affairs
Emblem of the Government of Japan
Incumbent Yōko Kamikawa since 13 September 2023
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Style	Her Excellency
Member of	Cabinet of Japan National Security Council
Reports to	Prime Minister of Japan
Appointer	Prime Minister subject to formal attestation by the Emperor
Formation	December 22, 1885; 139 years ago (1885-12-22)
Deputy	State Minister of Foreign Affairs
Salary	¥20,916,000

The Minister for Foreign Affairs (also called the Gaimu Daijin in Japanese) is a very important member of the Cabinet of Japan. This person is the main leader of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Their big job is to handle Japan's relationships with other countries. They also help make important decisions about Japan's safety as part of the National Security Council.

The Prime Minister chooses who will be the Foreign Minister. Then, the Emperor officially approves this choice.

This job has been very powerful since the end of World War II. This is because Japan relies a lot on good relationships with other countries for its economy. More recently, former Prime Ministers like Junichiro Koizumi and Shinzo Abe wanted Japan to be more active in world affairs. This made the Foreign Minister's role even more important.

The person who is currently the Minister for Foreign Affairs is Yōko Kamikawa. She started this job on September 13, 2023.

What Does the Foreign Minister Do?
A Look at Past Foreign Ministers
Images for kids
See also

What Does the Foreign Minister Do?

The Minister for Foreign Affairs is like Japan's chief diplomat. They are responsible for making sure Japan has strong and friendly relationships with countries all over the world. This includes things like:

Talking with leaders from other nations.
Signing agreements and treaties.
Representing Japan at international meetings.
Helping Japanese citizens who are living or traveling abroad.

Their work helps keep Japan safe and helps its economy grow by working with other countries.

A Look at Past Foreign Ministers

Japan has had many Foreign Ministers since the position was created in 1885. These leaders have played a key role in shaping Japan's place in the world. Some have served during times of big changes, like wars or major economic shifts. Others have helped build strong friendships with many nations.

For example, during the time of the Empire of Japan (1885–1945), ministers like Mutsu Munemitsu and Kijūrō Shidehara helped guide Japan's foreign policy. After World War II, during the "Postwar Japan" period, figures like Shigeru Yoshida and Mamoru Shigemitsu worked to rebuild Japan's international standing.

Many Foreign Ministers have also served as Prime Minister at some point in their careers. This shows how important the role of Foreign Minister is in Japan's government.