Japan's Prime Minister has shown opposition to the criticism of the Pope by the US President. The details add nuance to the perceived shift in Japan's diplomatic strategies and its approach towards religious topics discussed at a global stage. The timeline of this event isn't explicitly stated in the headline but its international scope suggests it is being followed closely in real-time by observers in Japan and across the world.

In Japan, there's a unique perspective on religion and its relation to politics; the two are often viewed separately. The Prime Minister's intervention in a topic regarding the Pope indicates Japan's larger interests in global diplomacy, showcasing an uncharacteristic stance that the Japanese public will meticulously scrutinize.

In the US or EU, such religious criticisms by high-ranking officials would also lead to a public backlash, debates among political figures, and media attention. However, the separation of church and state is more a matter of principle and often leads to controversies, especially when political leaders comment on religious figures or affairs.