Japan’s Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi will not attend the NATO summit in July, breaking a recent trend. Japan has been invited to NATO summits since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, signifying increased engagement between the alliance and the Indo-Pacific nation. The reason for Takaichi’s absence has not been officially disclosed. This decision follows recent parliamentary scrutiny regarding Takaichi’s past comments and political affiliations. Her non-attendance may impact discussions surrounding economic security and regional cooperation. It remains unclear if another Japanese representative will take her place at the summit.