South Korea’s foreign ministry said Tuesday it will continue to work closely with Japan following the election of Sanae Takaichi as Japan’s new prime minister.

In a statement, the ministry said the South Korean government would maintain communication with Tokyo’s new leadership and seek to build on recent progress in bilateral relations.

“We hope the two countries will continue efforts to develop future-oriented ties,” the statement said, emphasising the importance of cooperation amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and global trade realignments.

Mr Takaichi, of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, was elected earlier Tuesday by Japan’s parliament, becoming the country’s first female prime minister.

The ministry noted that, as neighbouring countries and global partners, South Korea and Japan shared common interests and responsibilities in addressing regional and international challenges.

(Xinhua/NAN)