Prime Minister Fumio Kishida decided Monday to name former Defense Minister Gen Nakatani as his special adviser on human rights issues to address China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims in its far-western Xinjiang region and pro-democracy advocates in Hong Kong.
Nakatani's appointment is expected to be formalized Wednesday, when Kishida launches his second Cabinet in a special parliamentary session. The prime minister said in September that he would create the new post — a move that has already angered China. Beijing typically slams such moves as interference in its internal affairs.
"I was asked to give appropriate advice and proposals regarding human rights issues by consulting with the foreign and industry ministers," Nakatani told reporters after meeting Kishida at the Prime Minister's Office. "As a politician who has worked intensely on human rights issues, I hope to utilize my knowledge and experience."