The sun is setting on the longest premiership in the history of the Land of the Rising Sun. On Aug. 28, Shinzo Abe announced his intention to resign, citing health concerns.

A strong and steady leader, Abe ushered in a period of renewed economic growth and confident international engagement. Understanding the long-term challenges inherent in China’s ascendance, Abe invested in Japan’s alliance with the United States and its relationships across the Indo-Pacific. Japan in a post-Abe era will have to grapple with heightened risks on all fronts — including in Washington.