Prime Minister Kishida Expresses Support for Ueda as Bank of Japan Governor Candidate

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has expressed his support for the nomination of Haruhiko Ueda as the next governor of the Bank of Japan. The Prime Minister made the announcement at a press conference on Monday, saying that he believes Ueda is an excellent candidate and will be able to bring about positive change in the bank. Ueda’s nomination has been met with some criticism from opposition parties, but Abe said that he does not find any of Ueda’s statements to be out of line with government policy. He also said that he would like to meet with Ueda as soon as possible after his appointment is officially confirmed in order to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation between the government and the Bank of Japan. The Prime Minister also praised outgoing governor Masaaki Shirakawa for his service during his five-year term, noting that Shirakawa had done much to help stabilize financial markets and ensure economic growth during difficult times. Ueda is currently serving as vice minister for international affairs at the Ministry of Finance, and if appointed, will become only the second non-career central banker ever chosen to lead the Bank of Japan. His appointment must still be approved by both houses of parliament before it can take effect.