Japan Considers Meeting Between Takaichi and ICC President
The Japanese government is considering arranging a meeting between Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and International Criminal Court (ICC) President Tomoko Akane when she returns to Japan later this month.
Asahi Travel Service Pvt Ltd
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara announced the government’s consideration on November 12 after receiving a proposal from a cross-party group of Japanese lawmakers. The group urged Takaichi and Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi to meet Akane and express Japan’s support for the international court.
Akane, a Japanese national, has become a target of sanctions imposed by US President Donald Trump’s administration.
US Sanctions Raise Concerns Over the ICC
The US sanctions against Akane have created diplomatic concerns for Japan, which has consistently supported the ICC and its role in international justice.
Washington has criticised the court over its investigations and actions involving US and Israeli officials. The sanctions against Akane include restrictions affecting her access to the US financial system and travel to the country.
Japan has expressed concern over the measures while seeking to maintain its close relationship with the United States. Prime Minister Takaichi previously described the US action as unfortunate and said the Japanese government would continue communicating with Washington and other relevant countries.
Lawmakers Urge Japan to Strengthen Support
The proposal was submitted by Gen Nakatani and Yasue Funayama, co-chairs of a multiparty parliamentary group focused on human rights diplomacy.
The lawmakers called for direct engagement with Akane and continued support for the ICC at a time when the court is facing pressure from US sanctions.
Their request also highlighted the importance of Japan’s financial contribution to the institution. Japan is the ICC’s largest financial contributor and provided approximately ¥4.6 billion to the court this year.
Japan Considers Early Payment of 2027 Contribution
Kihara also said the government would like to make its financial contribution to the ICC for 2027 ahead of schedule, potentially within this year.
However, the decision has not yet been finalised. Kihara explained that the government would continue examining possible financial measures.
An early payment could provide additional financial support to the court as it deals with the impact of the US sanctions.
Final Word
Japan’s consideration of a meeting between Takaichi and Akane highlights the country’s efforts to support international justice while managing its diplomatic relationship with the United States. The proposed meeting and possible advance financial contribution could become important signals of Tokyo’s continued commitment to the ICC.
