Japan's female foreign minister queries women's worth without birth in election speech

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa on Saturday asked central Japan constituents how "we women can call ourselves women without giving birth," equating the importance of childbirth to electing a new governor in a speech ahead of a gubernatorial election.

Kamikawa made the remarks during a visit to her native Shizuoka Prefecture in an attempt to garner support for a candidate backed by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

While known for her efforts to further gender equality, the comments are expected to garner criticism for their lack of sensitivity.