TOKYO, September 22, SPA -- Japan's ruling party has elected former Foreign Minister Taro Aso as its new leader, the Associated Press reported. The Liberal Democratic Party vote all but guarantees thatAso will be chosen as Japan's next prime minister in aballot on Wednesday. Aso, who defeated four other LDP candidates, is considereda conservative who favors an assertive Japan.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/592266