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Japan’s prime minister forms new cabinet, replaces defense chief

The country’s new defense chief is Gen Nakatani, who served as head of the Japan Defense Agency in the cabinet of Junichiro Koizumi in 2001-2002
Gen Nakatani (centre) at the Lower House of Parliament in Tokyo EPA/FRANCK ROBICHON
Gen Nakatani (centre) at the Lower House of Parliament in Tokyo
© EPA/FRANCK ROBICHON

TOKYO, December 24. /TASS/. Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who was re-elected to his next term earlier on Wednesday by the lower house of parliament, has formed a new cabinet of ministers.

The Japanese premier has replaced only his defense minister, Akinori Eto, who has faced questions over his use of political funds.

The country’s new defense chief is Gen Nakatani, who served as head of the Japan Defense Agency in the cabinet of Junichiro Koizumi in 2001-2002.

The new cabinet ministers are to start performing their duties after a ceremonial presentation to the emperor, which is due to take place later on Wednesday.

Earlier on Wednesday, Japan’s cabinet resigned en masse in a formal procedure ahead of naming the premier after a December 14 snap election.

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