Tanzan Ishibashi

Tanzan Ishibashi became Prime Minister of Japan on December 23, 1956, succeeding Ichiro Hatoyama. His appointment came after winning the LDP presidential election. Ishibashi's tenure was brief, lasting only 65 days, due to his poor health. He prioritized economic growth and improved relations with China.

Ishibashi advocated for expanding trade with the People's Republic of China, despite U.S. opposition and the Cold War context. He supported the fourth Japan-China private trade agreement in 1957. His efforts laid groundwork for future economic ties, though full normalization did not occur until 1972.

Ishibashi resigned as Prime Minister on February 25, 1957, after suffering a stroke. His resignation was the shortest tenure of any post-war Japanese prime minister. He was succeeded by Nobusuke Kishi. Ishibashi's brief term limited his ability to implement major policies.