Yasuo Fukuda, former Prime Minister of Japan, dies at 90

Yasuo Fukuda, the 91st Prime Minister of Japan, has passed away at the age of 90. He served as Prime Minister from September 2007 to September 2008, navigating a difficult period characterized by a divided parliament.

Fukuda was a significant figure in Japanese politics, previously serving as Chief Cabinet Secretary under the administrations of Mori Yoshiro and Koizumi Junichiro. He was noted for his role as a stabilizing force and his efforts to improve relations with neighboring Asian countries, particularly China.

In Vietnam, Deputy Prime Minister Le Tien Chau visited the Japanese Embassy in Hanoi to pay respects to the late leader. He described Fukuda as a great friend to the Vietnamese people, highlighting the former Prime Minister's role in deepening bilateral relations, including hosting Vietnamese President Nguyen Minh Triet in 2007.