TOKYO (REUTERS) - Japanese Economy Minister Toshimitsu Motegi is set to replace Mr Taro Kono as foreign minister when Prime Minister Shinzo Abe reshuffles his Cabinet on Sept 11, the Yomiuri newspaper reported on Wednesday (Sept 4).

As the top diplomat, Mr Motegi will likely continue in his role as lead negotiator in Japan's tough trade talks with United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, the daily said, without citing sources.

Mr Abe has said he would emphasise "stability" and "challenge" in the new line-up, and is expected to keep Finance Minister Taro Aso and Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga in their key posts, while appointing some younger members to the Cabinet, local media has reported.