The writer is chairman of the Asia Pacific Initiative, a think-tank, and former editor of the Asahi Shimbun
As Shinzo Abe steps down after eight years as Japanese prime minister, the focus at home is on who will succeed him.
The ruling Liberal Democratic party are weighing three candidates, with Yoshihide Suga, the current chief cabinet secretary, in pole position. Under Mr Suga, Japan would probably see a continuation of Mr Abe’s policies. But whoever is chosen to be the next leader, their most critical quality will be diplomatic prowess. In that regard, Mr Abe was exceptional. His legacy will be a record of accomplished diplomacy.
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