Advertisement SKIP ADVERTISEMENT You have a preview view of this article while we are checking your access. When we have confirmed access, the full article content will load. News Analysis Courting Anxious Allies, Japan Pitches Stability and Strength in Asia Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is attempting to raise Japan’s profile at a time when China’s clout is rising and doubts about the United States are spreading. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of Japan arriving in Canberra, Australia, on Sunday. Credit... Hollie Adams/Reuters May 6, 2026, 12:00 a.m. ET Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s visit to Vietnam and Australia over the past few days had all the trappings of a standard diplomatic tour. She showered her hosts with praise and gifts, including prized Japanese melons. She snapped selfies with students in Canberra and tried her hand at playing traditional drums in Hanoi. But by the time Ms. Takaichi departed the Australian capital on Tuesday, it was clear that the trip had been far from routine.…