Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio appointed former Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Goto Shigeyuki as the new economic revitalization minister on Tuesday.

Goto replaced Yamagiwa Daishiro, who stepped down on Monday amid a series of revelations about his links with the controversial religious group previously known as the Unification Church.

The prime minister cited Goto's political experience, high communication skills and enthusiasm for reforming Japan's economy and society as reasons for the appointment.

Kishida said, "I decided to appoint him as he is work-ready," given that the government will shortly compile a new economic package and a supplementary budget to fund the package.

The prime minister indicated his Cabinet's stance over the former Unification Church will remain unchanged in Goto's appointment. Cabinet members will be asked to give sufficient explanation in case any connection with the church is revealed and sever ties with it.

Goto expressed his determination to act swiftly in response to a variety of challenges, including economic stimulus measures, surging prices, compilation of an extra budget and coronavirus measures.

He also touched on Kishida's economic policy of a "new form of capitalism" as one of the key areas he intends to focus on.

Goto said he has had no ties with the former Unification Church, indicating he is set to follow the Cabinet's principles on the issue.