FOCUS: Japan's new PM Takaichi makes mark at ASEAN amid China concerns

The way Japan's new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, engaged with ASEAN leaders during her busy weekend trip to Malaysia may have left a positive impression, as China is believed to be closely watching the diplomacy of the country's first female leader, known for her hawkish views.Takaichi, who succeeded Shigeru Ishiba last week, took her first step onto the international diplomatic stage Sunday in Kuala Lumpur, where she held talks with leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and met separately with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the grouping's current chair.At the ou…READ FULL ARTICLE