affairs of state; state affairs
Refers to the official business and responsibilities of a national government. Often used in formal or political contexts.
The Secretary of State is in charge of foreign policy.
The prime minister is busy with affairs of state.
The prime minister works from early morning to conduct state affairs.
He has been engaged in state affairs for many years.
minister of state; cabinet minister
Compound of 国 (country, state) and 務 (duty, affairs). The reading is on'yomi.