Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has elected Sanae Takaichi as its new leader, setting her on course to become the country’s first female prime minister.

Takaichi, a veteran conservative lawmaker and former internal affairs minister, won the party leadership contest on Friday following the resignation of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. 

Her victory ensures that she will take office as Japan’s next prime minister since the LDP controls the lower house of parliament, which chooses the head of government.

In her acceptance speech, Takaichi pledged to strengthen Japan’s economy, bolster national defense, and continue the country’s alliance with the United States amid rising regional security concerns. 

She also vowed to pursue policies that promote innovation and support families facing economic pressures.

The 63-year-old politician is closely aligned with former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s policy agenda.