Key moments in Shinzo Abe's life and political career

Born into a political family, Shinzo Abe had been Japan's longest-serving prime minister. Here is a look at some key moments in Abe's life and political career.

Sept 21, 1954: Abe is born in Tokyo.

1982: Pursues positions at the Foreign Ministry and with the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

1993: First elected as LDP legislator representing the southwestern prefecture of Yamaguchi.

2005: Appointed chief cabinet secretary under prime minister Junichiro Koizumi. The same year, he is elected head of the LDP.

Sept 26, 2006: Abe becomes Japan's prime minister for the first time.

2007: Abe resigns as prime minister citing health reasons.

2012: After being elected as LDP president again, Abe becomes prime minister for the second time.

2013: Seeking to boost growth, Abe launches his "Abenomics" policies.

2014-2020: Reelected LDP leader, he serves two additional terms as prime minister.

Aug 28, 2020: Announces he will step down as prime minister after his ulcerative colitis flared up.

July 8, 2022: Abe dies after being shot during a campaign speech.

Agencies Via Xinhua