NKorea key test for Abe's hopes to be Japan PM

TOKYO, July 15 (Reuters) The North Korean missile crisis is giving Shinzo Abe a perfect chance to show whether he's got what it takes to be Japan's next leader.

The popular politician, who holds the key portfolio of chief cabinet secretary, is spearheading Tokyo's drive to seek a U N resolution that would impose sanctions on Pyongyang for firing a barrage of ballistic missiles last week.

With an overwhelming majority of Japanese voters supporting tough steps against the reclusive state, Abe's efforts are likely to boost his popularity and image as a viable successor to Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, who plans to step down in September.

If Japan's diplomacy stumbles, his prospects could be dented.

The 51-year-old Abe said yesterday he hasn't had time to think about his political ambitions.

''We are now debating the U N resolution following the missile launches. So I have no room to think about such personal issues,'' he told Reuters in an interview.

Sitting in a room at the Prime Minister's Official Residence -- which also houses Abe's own office -- the top government spokesman avoided the topic of whether he may be its next tenant.

''It's too early to mention the September presidential race,'' said Abe, wearing a well-cut grey suit, the sort of apparel that has helped polish his elegant image.

The ruling Liberal Democratic Party will hold an election to choose who succeeds Koizumi as its president. Because the party controls parliament, its president becomes the Prime Minister.

A recent survey showed Abe had support from nearly 50 per cent of Japanese voters. His main rival, former chief cabinet secretary Yasuo Fukuda, runs second with around 20 per cent.

Many respondents say they like Abe's image as a well-dressed, well-bred member of Japan's political elite. His grandfather was a Prime Minister and his father a Foreign Minister.

He's also known as a devoted husband, an image that appeals to some female voters.

What made Abe a household name, though, was the tough stance he took four years ago towards North Korea on the emotive issue of Japanese citizens kidnapped by Pyongyang decades ago.

Noting how he had long advocated Japan's deploying a missile defence system to counter North Korea's missile arsenal, Abe yesterday blasted those who had criticised him as too hawkish.

''Four years ago, when I was making a case (for missile defence), many people said it was premature, that it was even wrong to debate it,'' he said. ''Now the same people...are asking why did we not do it earlier.'' But analysts say that if Japan, led by Abe, insists on sticking to a tough line over North Korea, it risks facing a diplomatic defeat, which could harm his image as a leader.

Reuters SB DB0927