Prime Minister Kishida recently announced the cancellation of his trip to Central Asia and Mongolia in light of the Japan Meteorological Agency's unprecedented warning about the increased likelihood of a major earthquake along the country's Pacific coast. The warning specifically focuses on the Nankai trough, an underwater trench known for seismic activity that has historically resulted in massive tsunamis following earthquakes.
The decision to call off the prime minister's visit was motivated by the need to prioritize domestic preparedness and communication efforts in response to the earthquake warning. Although the advisory did not specify a timeframe for potential earthquake occurrences or recommend evacuations at the time, Kishida expressed a sense of responsibility to address public concerns and alleviate anxiety surrounding the situation.
With the cancelation of the overseas trip, the Japanese government is exploring alternative ways to engage with regional leaders, potentially opting for virtual meetings instead of in-person discussions. The decision to stay in the country and focus on readiness measures highlights the seriousness with which the government is approaching the earthquake warning and the potential risks associated with seismic activity in the region.