Japan's Parliament elected Fumio Kishida as the country's new prime minister on Monday.
Why it matters: The former foreign minister faces immediate challenges, including reviving the country's third-largest economy and working with the U.S. and other key allies to address security threats, per the Wall Street Journal.
- He also has to ensure preparations are made in case there's a winter resurgence of COVID-19 cases to avoid burdening the health system, including stepping up vaccination efforts, AP notes.
Yes, but: Kishida must call a general election by Nov. 28.
The big picture: Kishida was elected leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party last week.
- He replaced Yoshihide Suga, who announced his resignation last month after a year in office.
- Suga's approval ratings plunged as Japan's COVID-19 cases surged during the Tokyo Olympics.
Editor's note: This article has been updated with new details throughout.
