Updated Oct 4, 2021 - World

Japan's Parliament elects Fumio Kishida as prime minister

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Japan's former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida after winning the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's presidential election on September 29, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. — Japan's new Prime Minister Fumio Kishida after winning the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's presidential election on Sept. 29 in Tokyo. Photo: Du Xiaoyi - Pool/Getty Images

Japan's Parliament elected Fumio Kishida as the country's new prime minister on Monday.

Why it matters: The former foreign minister faces immediate challenges, including reviving the world's third-largest economy and working with the U.S. and other key allies to address security threats, per the Wall Street Journal.

He also has to ensure preparations are made in case there's a winter resurgence of COVID-19 cases to avoid burdening the health system, including stepping up vaccination efforts, AP notes.

Yes, but: Kishida must call a general election by Nov. 28.

The big picture: Kishida was elected leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party last week.

He replaced Yoshihide Suga, who announced his resignation last month after a year in office.
Suga's approval ratings plunged as Japan's COVID-19 cases surged during the Tokyo Olympics.

Editor's note: This article has been updated with new details throughout.

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Japan's Parliament elects Fumio Kishida as prime minister

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