Former Japan PM Yasuo Fukuda dies at age 90
Fukuda, who led Japan for a year from 2007, was known for efforts to improve relations with China.
At a glance
- Fukuda served as prime minister for one year, from September 2007 to September 2008
- He prioritised improving Japan-China relations and hosted the first Chinese presidential visit to Japan in a decade
- He resigned due to declining approval ratings and retired from politics in 2012
- China's Foreign Ministry praised his contributions to bilateral relations
Yasuo Fukuda, who served as Japanese prime minister from September 2007 to September 2008, has died at the age of 90, according to a ruling Liberal Democratic Party official. Fukuda passed away on October 22.
During his tenure, Fukuda prioritised building stable ties with China, inviting then-president Hu Jintao to visit Japan in May 2008—the first visit by a Chinese head of state in a decade. The two leaders issued a joint statement on a mutually beneficial relationship. Fukuda resigned as his approval ratings declined and retired from politics in 2012. China's Foreign Ministry described him as "an old friend" who made positive contributions to bilateral relations.
Why it matters
Fukuda's diplomatic efforts toward China represented a significant period in Japan-China relations, though ties later deteriorated over territorial disputes and historical issues.
Original reporting
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