Japan’s Foreign Minister Welcomes Ambassador Emanuel

Fortunately for Rahm Emanuel, he got his ambassadorship confirmation through the U.S. Senate early. Dozens of nominees are waiting. His credentials were just accepted by Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi.

Emanuel arrived at a key moment with the U.S. and Japan leading the way on a “free and open Indo-Pacific." Along with the revived QUAD representing the U.S., Japan, Australia and India, he will be dealing quickly with the leadership of allies South Korea and Taiwan. And, of course, he will be in frequent communication with his ambassador colleague in China, Nicholas Burns.

He’s also fortunate to miss the winter in Chicago.

Read Kyodo News: New U.S. envoy Emanuel, Japan foreign minister affirm alliance