ArrowArtboardCreated with Sketch.Title ChevronTitle ChevronIcon FacebookIcon LinkedinIcon Mail ContactPath LayerIcon MailPositive ArrowIcon Print
International relations

Asian neighbors wish departing Abe well -- and eye Japan's next PM

China says resignation is Tokyo's 'internal affair' as others offer praise

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, at center in the blue suit, poses with Asian leaders in Bangkok last November. (Pool photo)

TOKYO -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's decision to step down for health reasons on Friday elicited a mixture of reactions -- some warmer than others -- from governments, business leaders and experts across the region.

Most offered get-well-soon messages to Japan's longest-serving premier, whose physical condition had been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks. Some, including two of Japan's closest neighbors, appeared to have one eye on who will fill Abe's shoes.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored Content This content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.

Discover the all new Nikkei Asia app

  • Take your reading anywhere with offline reading functions
  • Never miss a story with breaking news alerts
  • Customize your reading experience

Nikkei Asian Review, now known as Nikkei Asia, will be the voice of the Asian Century.

Celebrate our next chapter
Free access for everyone - Sep. 30

Find out more