On Sunday (November 6), Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during Japan's international fleet review, pledged to strengthen the country's naval and military capabilities while warning other countries to be ready to repel aggressors.

The prime minister criticised North Korea for its recent launches of ballistic missiles, one flew over Japan for the first time since 2017, prompting evacuation warnings. Kishida further criticised Russia for its special military operation in Ukraine. Not directly mentioning about China, he said that the national security environment around the country is growing tense with several aggressive stances, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-considers-deployments-of-hypersonic-missiles-by-2030-report-530863">Also read |&nbsp;Japan considers deployment of hypersonic missiles by 2030 to counter security threats: Report</a>

&nbsp;He said, "We must prepare ourselves for an era when actors emerge to disobey rules and use force or threats to destroy the peace and safety of other nations." He continued, " We will accelerate realistic discussions on what's needed to defend our people by keeping all options on the table."

The statement comes after the country is all set to draft its military plan and might double its defence budget, making a major shift, as the constitution of the country limits the military capacity.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-multiple-ballistic-missiles-over-japan-residents-told-to-seek-shelter-530700">Also read |&nbsp;North Korea fires multiple missiles near Japan, residents told to seek shelter</a>

Kishida also mentioned that government will improve the working conditions and pay for the military, along with building new naval ships and increasing the missile capacity.&nbsp;

At Sagami Bay, ships from Japan and 12 other countries including, India, Australia, the US and even South Korea participated in it for the first time in seven years to rebind ties between the two countries.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Sunday (November 6), Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during Japan's international fleet review, pledged to strengthen the country's naval and military capabilities while warning other countries to be ready to repel aggressors.

On Sunday (November 6), Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during Japan's international fleet review, pledged to strengthen the country's naval and military capabilities while warning other countries to be ready to repel aggressors. The prime minister criticised North Korea for its recent launches of ballistic missiles, one flew over Japan for the first time since 2017, prompting evacuation warnings. Kishida further criticised Russia for its special military operation in Ukraine. Not directly mentioning about China, he said that the national security environment around the country is growing tense with several aggressive stances, AFP reported. Also read | Japan considers deployment of hypersonic missiles by 2030 to counter security threats: Report He said, "We must prepare ourselves for an era when actors emerge to disobey rules and use force or threats to destroy the peace and safety of other nations." He continued, " We will accelerate realistic discussions on what's needed to defend our people by keeping all options on the table." The statement comes after the country is all set to draft its military plan and might double its defence budget, making a major shift, as the constitution of the country limits the military capacity. Also read | North Korea fires multiple missiles near Japan, residents told to seek shelter Kishida also mentioned that government will improve the working conditions and pay for the military, along with building new naval ships and increasing the missile capacity. At Sagami Bay, ships from Japan and 12 other countries including, India, Australia, the US and even South Korea participated in it for the first time in seven years to rebind ties between the two countries. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan's PM Fumio Kishida pledges to strengthen naval and military capabilities amid rising border tensions

After Shinzo Abe's assassination in July exposed tight ties between the Unification Church and politicians from the ruling party, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced an investigation into the organisation on Monday.&nbsp;

As a result of mounting resentment that members of his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) did not properly disclose their connections to the church, support for Kishida's government has fallen to its lowest point since he took office a year ago.&nbsp;

Now, he has instructed the culture minister to prepare an investigation into the church under the Religious Corporations Act. Kishida told parliament: "I want to resolve issues related to the church."&nbsp;

But he refrained from commenting on when it would end. He said: "The government will clarify the situation, offer relief measures to the victims and take steps to prevent a similar situation happening again."&nbsp;

Kishida expressed regret over the reports that many LDP members had connections to the religion, which he claimed damaged public confidence in the government.&nbsp;

He also stated he was "taking seriously" claims that the organisation had left many of its adherents destitute, frequently with their families in disarray.&nbsp;

Hiroshi Yamaguchi, a lawyer who has worked on cases against the church, claims that in order to draw members and achieve credibility, the church developed relationships with Japanese politicians.&nbsp;

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After Shinzo Abe's assassination in July exposed tight ties between the Unification Church and politicians from the ruling party, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced an investigation into the organisation on Monday.

After Shinzo Abe's assassination in July exposed tight ties between the Unification Church and politicians from the ruling party, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced an investigation into the organisation on Monday. As a result of mounting resentment that members of his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) did not properly disclose their connections to the church, support for Kishida's government has fallen to its lowest point since he took office a year ago. Now, he has instructed the culture minister to prepare an investigation into the church under the Religious Corporations Act. Kishida told parliament: "I want to resolve issues related to the church." But he refrained from commenting on when it would end. He said: "The government will clarify the situation, offer relief measures to the victims and take steps to prevent a similar situation happening again." Kishida expressed regret over the reports that many LDP members had connections to the religion, which he claimed damaged public confidence in the government. He also stated he was "taking seriously" claims that the organisation had left many of its adherents destitute, frequently with their families in disarray. Hiroshi Yamaguchi, a lawyer who has worked on cases against the church, claims that in order to draw members and achieve credibility, the church developed relationships with Japanese politicians. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan PM Fumio Kishida orders probe into Unification Church links to ruling party members

The Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government approval ratings have fallen due to the party's link with Unification Church and this comes after the government has failed to manage the inflation. Kishida's cabinet witnessed a fall in the support from 40% to 35%, which is the lowest.

Unification Church connection batters Fumio Kishida

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is facing accusations of nepotism after he appointed his inexperienced son to be his executive secretary.

Japanese PM Kishida faces backlash over son's appointment as his executive secretary

US Vice-President Kamala Harris will attend former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe's funeral on Tuesday (September 27) in Tokyo. She also had a meeting with Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Monday to reaffirm the US-Japan alliance.

Kamala Harris Asia Tour: US VP Kamala Harris to attend Shinzo Abe's state funeral in Japan

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will depart for Tokyo on Monday evening to attend the state funeral of former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, scheduled on Tuesday. During his visit, PM Modi will also hold bilateral meeting with his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida.

WION Dispatch: Indian PM Modi to fly to Tokyo to attend Shinzo Abe's funeral

US Vice-President Kamala Harris met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida soon after arriving in Tokyo. Harris is set to attend former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s funeral on Tuesday.

Kamala Harris Asia Tour: US VP Harris holds talks with Japan's PM Fumio Kishida

Japan is honoring its longest serving prime minister Shinzo Abe. World leaders and official figures in Japan have gathered for the rare state funeral organized for the former Japanese prime minister.

PM Fumio Kishida defends decision to honor Shinzo Abe with rare state funeral

Support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tumbled to its lowest level since he took office, hit by growing anger over a state funeral for slain former leader Shinzo Abe and his ruling party's ties to a controversial church, an opinion poll showed.

Kishida's support fell to 32.3% from 44.3% a month before, according to the survey by Jiji news agency conducted at the weekend - approaching what is widely seen as a "danger level" of 30% that signifies a government may run into trouble carrying out its political agenda.

Those who did not support his government climbed to 40%, a rise of 11.5 points, Jiji added.

Links to the Unification Church, founded in South Korea in the 1950s, have become a growing headache for Kishida since July 8, when Abe was killed by a suspect who blamed him for supporting the church, which he said had bankrupted his mother.

Revelations following Abe's assassination of ties between the ruling party and the church, which has faced criticism over the years, have fed into anger about the cost of the Sept. 27 funeral, paid for solely by state funds, and how Kishida decided to hold it.

Kishida defended his decision in parliament last week, the same day his ruling party announced the results of its investigation into party ties to the church, but the poll found that 62.7% of respondents did not approve of his handling of the church matter, while 51.9% were against the state funeral.

Recovery from such steep falls in support may be difficult, analysts said.

"Even once the funeral's past, the problem with the Unification Church will continue. He'll probably face harsh questioning in parliament once it opens in October," said commentator Atsuo Ito.

"With the economy under stress as well, I'm not sure what will help him regain support."

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Support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tumbled to its lowest level since he took office, hit by growing anger over a state funeral for slain former leader Shinzo Abe and his ruling party's ties to a controversial church, an opinion poll showed.

Support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tumbled to its lowest level since he took office, hit by growing anger over a state funeral for slain former leader Shinzo Abe and his ruling party's ties to a controversial church, an opinion poll showed. Kishida's support fell to 32.3% from 44.3% a month before, according to the survey by Jiji news agency conducted at the weekend - approaching what is widely seen as a "danger level" of 30% that signifies a government may run into trouble carrying out its political agenda. Those who did not support his government climbed to 40%, a rise of 11.5 points, Jiji added. Links to the Unification Church, founded in South Korea in the 1950s, have become a growing headache for Kishida since July 8, when Abe was killed by a suspect who blamed him for supporting the church, which he said had bankrupted his mother. Revelations following Abe's assassination of ties between the ruling party and the church, which has faced criticism over the years, have fed into anger about the cost of the Sept. 27 funeral, paid for solely by state funds, and how Kishida decided to hold it. Kishida defended his decision in parliament last week, the same day his ruling party announced the results of its investigation into party ties to the church, but the poll found that 62.7% of respondents did not approve of his handling of the church matter, while 51.9% were against the state funeral. Recovery from such steep falls in support may be difficult, analysts said. "Even once the funeral's past, the problem with the Unification Church will continue. He'll probably face harsh questioning in parliament once it opens in October," said commentator Atsuo Ito. "With the economy under stress as well, I'm not sure what will help him regain support." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Support for Japan's PM Fumio Kishida tumbles as anger over Shinzo Abe's state funeral grows

Denny Tamaki, who wants a smaller footprint of the US military on the chain of islands near Taiwan, has been re-elected as Okinawa's governor.

Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported that Tamaki's victory is a sign of pushback against the ruling party of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Highlighting how his re-election campaign had focused more on the economy, Tamaki emphasised that he would continue to work to bolster the social safety net for the poor.

This worked in favour as the economy of Okinawa, a prefecture comprising Japan's more than 150 southern islands, was hit hard by slumping tourism due to the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-wants-to-keep-rocket-launchers-at-frontline-japanese-base-at-edge-of-east-china-sea-514570">Also read |&nbsp;US wants to keep rocket launchers at frontline Japanese base at edge of East China Sea</a>

After US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, China this summer launched five missiles into the sea close to Okinawa.

Tamaki has received political backing from national opposition parties and defeated the former mayor Atsushi Sakima in 2018.

Calling for the large Futenma US air base to be moved outside the prefecture, Tamaki won local support as residents resent the burden of hosting them because of taking 5 per cent of Okinawa's land.

Prompting officials to issue a warning for locals to seek shelter from the "violent waves and winds" before it made landfall, Typhoon Muifa is approaching Okinawa, according to Japan's Meteorological Agency.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Denny Tamaki, who wants a smaller footprint of the US military on the chain of islands near Taiwan, has been re-elected as Okinawa's governor. Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported that Tamaki's victory is a sign of pushback against the ruling party of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Denny Tamaki, who wants a smaller footprint of the US military on the chain of islands near Taiwan, has been re-elected as Okinawa's governor. Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported that Tamaki's victory is a sign of pushback against the ruling party of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Highlighting how his re-election campaign had focused more on the economy, Tamaki emphasised that he would continue to work to bolster the social safety net for the poor. This worked in favour as the economy of Okinawa, a prefecture comprising Japan's more than 150 southern islands, was hit hard by slumping tourism due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read | US wants to keep rocket launchers at frontline Japanese base at edge of East China Sea After US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, China this summer launched five missiles into the sea close to Okinawa. Tamaki has received political backing from national opposition parties and defeated the former mayor Atsushi Sakima in 2018. Calling for the large Futenma US air base to be moved outside the prefecture, Tamaki won local support as residents resent the burden of hosting them because of taking 5 per cent of Okinawa's land. Prompting officials to issue a warning for locals to seek shelter from the "violent waves and winds" before it made landfall, Typhoon Muifa is approaching Okinawa, according to Japan's Meteorological Agency. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Japanese voters re-elect Okinawa's governor who wants smaller US military footprint on chain of islands

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday said members of his ruling party will have to&nbsp;cut ties with the Unification Church, which has faced renewed scrutiny following ex-premier Shinzo Abe's assassination.

Abe's alleged assassin resented the church over his mother's involvement with and hefty donations to the organisation and targeted the former prime minister believing he was linked to the sect.

In the wake of Abe's&nbsp;murder, revelations of links between the church and a raft of politicians have caused controversy.

The Unification Church has condemned Abe's murder and denied accusations of coercive fundraising tactics, but Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government has seen its approval ratings drop in recent weeks as more details have emerged.

"We will make it the party's policy that our lawmakers sincerely reflect on their past, abandon cosy relationships and cut off ties with the organisation in question," Kishida told reporters Wednesday.

"Politicians must be cautious about having relationships with organisations that society recognises as problematic," he said, promising an investigation into ties between members of his party and the church.

Politicians including Abe's brother and former defence minister Nobuo Kishi have acknowledged receiving help from church members during elections.

The church says political support is decided by individual members without official involvement, but experts say it has long cultivated ties with powerful figures internationally.

There has also been a fresh examination of allegations the church engages in "spiritual sales", pressuring members to buy high-priced items to raise funds.

The church denies engaging in the practice, but Kishida said the government would "make an all-out effort" to assist victims of such sales.

Abe was not a member of the church but had addressed an affiliated group, as have various prominent international businesspeople and politicians, including Donald Trump.

Controversial funeral

Abe was shot last month in the western Nara region while on the campaign trail, and the government is planning a September 27 state funeral expected to be attended by many current and former heads of state.

The plan is controversial in&nbsp;Japan, however, with some questioning if public money should be spent on an event celebrating a politician.

And while Abe was the country's longest-serving and best-known politician, he was also divisive, particularly because of his nationalist views and links to alleged cronyism.

Kishida defended the state funeral on Wednesday and said he would submit to questioning over the issue during a televised session of parliament.

"The fact we are holding this state funeral doesn't mean we're forcing people to express their condolences," Kishida said at his first press conference since he contracted Covid-19 earlier this month.&nbsp;

"But I'm aware that there have been various opinions as well as criticism that we have provided insufficient explanations."&nbsp;

He defended the decision by citing Abe's achievements domestically and internationally, saying he had received requests from world leaders to visit and pay their condolences.&nbsp;

Kishida said 6,000 people were expected to attend the funeral but that its final cost would not be clear until a guest list of foreign dignitaries was finalised.&nbsp;

A budget of 249 million yen ($1.8 million) has been approved for the event, but that figure does not include security for the dozens of high-profile foreign guests expected to attend.&nbsp;

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday said members of his ruling party will have to cut ties with the Unification Church, which has faced renewed scrutiny following ex-premier Shinzo Abe's assassination.

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday said members of his ruling party will have to cut ties with the Unification Church, which has faced renewed scrutiny following ex-premier Shinzo Abe's assassination. Abe's alleged assassin resented the church over his mother's involvement with and hefty donations to the organisation and targeted the former prime minister believing he was linked to the sect. In the wake of Abe's murder, revelations of links between the church and a raft of politicians have caused controversy. The Unification Church has condemned Abe's murder and denied accusations of coercive fundraising tactics, but Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government has seen its approval ratings drop in recent weeks as more details have emerged. "We will make it the party's policy that our lawmakers sincerely reflect on their past, abandon cosy relationships and cut off ties with the organisation in question," Kishida told reporters Wednesday. "Politicians must be cautious about having relationships with organisations that society recognises as problematic," he said, promising an investigation into ties between members of his party and the church. Politicians including Abe's brother and former defence minister Nobuo Kishi have acknowledged receiving help from church members during elections. The church says political support is decided by individual members without official involvement, but experts say it has long cultivated ties with powerful figures internationally. There has also been a fresh examination of allegations the church engages in "spiritual sales", pressuring members to buy high-priced items to raise funds. The church denies engaging in the practice, but Kishida said the government would "make an all-out effort" to assist victims of such sales. Abe was not a member of the church but had addressed an affiliated group, as have various prominent international businesspeople and politicians, including Donald Trump. Controversial funeral Abe was shot last month in the western Nara region while on the campaign trail, and the government is planning a September 27 state funeral expected to be attended by many current and former heads of state. The plan is controversial in Japan, however, with some questioning if public money should be spent on an event celebrating a politician. And while Abe was the country's longest-serving and best-known politician, he was also divisive, particularly because of his nationalist views and links to alleged cronyism. Kishida defended the state funeral on Wednesday and said he would submit to questioning over the issue during a televised session of parliament. "The fact we are holding this state funeral doesn't mean we're forcing people to express their condolences," Kishida said at his first press conference since he contracted Covid-19 earlier this month. "But I'm aware that there have been various opinions as well as criticism that we have provided insufficient explanations." He defended the decision by citing Abe's achievements domestically and internationally, saying he had received requests from world leaders to visit and pay their condolences. Kishida said 6,000 people were expected to attend the funeral but that its final cost would not be clear until a guest list of foreign dignitaries was finalised. A budget of 249 million yen ($1.8 million) has been approved for the event, but that figure does not include security for the dozens of high-profile foreign guests expected to attend.

Japan PM Fumio Kishida says ruling party to cut ties with Unification Church

Earlier this year, Japan narrowly avoided a major blackout. PM Fumio Kishida wants to fire up nuclear plants again to deal with future shortages. Will the people of Japan back the move - after the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Why Japan feels the need of nuclear power again

Japan&nbsp;will restart more idled nuclear plants and look at developing next-generation reactors, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday, setting the stage for a major policy shift on nuclear energy a decade after the Fukushima disaster.

The comments from Kishida — who also said the government would look at extending the lifespan of existing reactors — highlight how the Ukraine crisis and soaring energy costs have forced both a change in public opinion and a policy rethink toward nuclear power.

Japan&nbsp;has kept most of its nuclear plants idled in the decade since a massive earthquake and tsunami in 2011 triggered a nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-may-deploy-1000-long-range-missiles-to-counter-china-report-508820">Japan may deploy 1,000 long-range missiles to counter China: Report</a>

Kishida told reporters he had instructed officials to come up with concrete measures by the year-end, including on "gaining the understanding of the public" on sustainable energy and nuclear power.

Government officials met on Wednesday to hammer out a plan for so-called "green transformation" aimed at retooling the world's third-largest economy to meet environmental goals. Nuclear energy, which was deeply opposed by the public in the aftermath of the Fukushima crisis, is now seen by some in government as a component for such green transformation.

Public opinion has also shifted, as fuel prices have risen and an early and hot summer spurred calls for energy-saving.

Last month, the government said it hoped to restart more nuclear reactors in time to avert any power crunch over the winter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/warming-rivers-threaten-nuclear-plants-and-already-tight-power-supply-499789">Warming rivers threaten nuclear plants and already tight power supply&nbsp;</a>

As of late July,&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;had seven operating reactors, with three others offline due to maintenance. Many others are still going through a relicencing process under stricter safety standards imposed after Fukushima.

Kishida also said the government would look at extending the lifespan of existing reactors. Local media earlier reported this could be done by not including the time reactors remained offline — years in some cases — when calculating their operating time.

Under current regulations, Japan&nbsp;decommissions plants after a predetermined period, which in many cases is 60 years.

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Japan will restart more idled nuclear plants and look at developing next-generation reactors, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday, setting the stage for a major policy shift on nuclear energy a decade after the Fukushima disaster.

Japan will restart more idled nuclear plants and look at developing next-generation reactors, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday, setting the stage for a major policy shift on nuclear energy a decade after the Fukushima disaster. The comments from Kishida — who also said the government would look at extending the lifespan of existing reactors — highlight how the Ukraine crisis and soaring energy costs have forced both a change in public opinion and a policy rethink toward nuclear power. Japan has kept most of its nuclear plants idled in the decade since a massive earthquake and tsunami in 2011 triggered a nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant. Also read | Japan may deploy 1,000 long-range missiles to counter China: Report Kishida told reporters he had instructed officials to come up with concrete measures by the year-end, including on "gaining the understanding of the public" on sustainable energy and nuclear power. Government officials met on Wednesday to hammer out a plan for so-called "green transformation" aimed at retooling the world's third-largest economy to meet environmental goals. Nuclear energy, which was deeply opposed by the public in the aftermath of the Fukushima crisis, is now seen by some in government as a component for such green transformation. Public opinion has also shifted, as fuel prices have risen and an early and hot summer spurred calls for energy-saving. Last month, the government said it hoped to restart more nuclear reactors in time to avert any power crunch over the winter. Also read | Warming rivers threaten nuclear plants and already tight power supply As of late July, Japan had seven operating reactors, with three others offline due to maintenance. Many others are still going through a relicencing process under stricter safety standards imposed after Fukushima. Kishida also said the government would look at extending the lifespan of existing reactors. Local media earlier reported this could be done by not including the time reactors remained offline — years in some cases — when calculating their operating time. Under current regulations, Japan decommissions plants after a predetermined period, which in many cases is 60 years.

In major shift, Japan signals return to nuclear power to stabilise energy supply

Rishi Sunak is not dropping the towel in the PM race. In a change of strategy, he has dubbed himself as the 'underdog' and even released a video that portrayed him the same. Meanwhile Singapore on Sunday did away with the archaic colonial-era law that criminalised gay sex. In other news, Japanese PM&nbsp;Fumio Kishida has tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/underdog-has-got-nothing-to-lose-he-fights-for-every-inch-rishi-sunak-in-campaign-video-508901">Underdog has nothing to lose, he fights for every inch: Rishi Sunak in campaign video</a>

As allies insisted he is still in a position to win, Rishi Sunak has positioned himself as the "underdog" in the race to become the next prime minister of UK. At the Tories' Friday hustings for the party's top job in Manchester, Sunak was introduced in a brand-new video montage that portrayed the former chancellor as an audacious outsider.

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Israeli spyware firm NSO group that manufactures the controversial Pegasus software has announced a change in the top hierarchy. Reportedly, the company's Chief Executive Officer Shalev Hulio has stepped down with immediate effect from his position on Sunday. Additionaly, the company is&nbsp;laying off 100 employees out of its workforce of 750.

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In what comes as a landmark moment in the history of Singapore, the country has decided to repeal an archaic law that criminalised gay sex. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made the announcement on Sunday during his annual policy address.&nbsp;

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The interior minister for Pakistan, Rana Sanaullah, stated on Sunday that the government was discussing whether to bring a new case against Imran Khan, the PTI chairman, for his "provocative speech" from the previous day or to add him to an existing case.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/21/289302-new-wion-50.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-missiles-pound-odesa-as-ukrainian-independence-day-draws-closer-508917">Russian missiles pound Odesa as Ukrainian Independence Day draws closer</a>

Russian missiles have hit Odesa, the Ukrainian port, overnight. Artillery shells have also rained down on a city close to Europe's biggest nuclear plant. The attacks have come as Ukraine heads towards celebrating its Independence Day on August 24. It will be Ukraine's 31st Independence Day.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/21/289424-ukraine-8.jpg" />

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The Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive.&nbsp;Kishida, 65, had to depart for a visit to Tunisia but the virus has forced him to recuperate at his official residence

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexander-dugins-daughter-killed-in-car-bomb-attack-who-is-darya-dugina-508788">Alexander Dugin's daughter killed in car bomb attack: Who is Darya Dugina?</a>

Russia President Vladimir Putin's ally Alexander Dugin's daughter Darya Dugina, 30, was killed in a car bomb attack near Moscow, reports said. Alexander was in a car behind Darya's vehicle when the explosion occurred. Darya Dugina's death was confirmed by the Russian news agency TASS. She was reportedly driving a Toyota land cruiser Prado when the explosion occurred.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-urged-to-rethink-its-genetics-data-sharing-policy-with-china-508860">Experts urge UK to rethink its genetics data sharing policy with China</a>

Demands are being raised in the United Kingdom to stop the sharing of confidential&nbsp;genetic data&nbsp;of over 500,000 Britons with&nbsp;China.&nbsp;Reportedly, under&nbsp;several hundred ongoing projects of the UK Biobank,&nbsp;researchers in China have&nbsp;been accessing 'detailed genetic information' and other health-related data of UK citizens.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-victory-is-for-my-country-oleksandr-usyk-pays-tribute-to-ukrainian-military-after-beating-anthony-joshua-508866">This victory is for my country: Oleksandr Usyk pays tribute to Ukrainian military after beating Anthony Joshua</a>

&nbsp;"I did this victory for my country, for all people, militaries who are defending the country. Thank you very, very much." said&nbsp;Oleksandr Usyk after defeating&nbsp;British boxer Anthony Joshua.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/netizens-strongly-react-to-anonymous-death-threats-made-against-bts-jimin-and-v-508825">Netizens strongly react to anonymous death threats made against BTS' Jimin and V</a>

On Friday, netizens started reporting suspicious posts containing death threats against BTS' Jimin and V on the fan community platform Weverse. Referring to the upcoming Busan concert, an anonymous person made threats to assassinate the popular South Korean singers and shared a picture of a gun. Screenshots of the death threats have been doing rounds on social media.

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Rishi Sunak is not dropping the towel in the PM race. In a change of strategy, he has dubbed himself as the 'underdog' and even released a video that portrayed him the same.

Rishi Sunak is not dropping the towel in the PM race. In a change of strategy, he has dubbed himself as the 'underdog' and even released a video that portrayed him the same. Meanwhile Singapore on Sunday did away with the archaic colonial-era law that criminalised gay sex. In other news, Japanese PM Fumio Kishida has tested positive for coronavirus. Click the headlines to read more Underdog has nothing to lose, he fights for every inch: Rishi Sunak in campaign video As allies insisted he is still in a position to win, Rishi Sunak has positioned himself as the "underdog" in the race to become the next prime minister of UK. At the Tories' Friday hustings for the party's top job in Manchester, Sunak was introduced in a brand-new video montage that portrayed the former chancellor as an audacious outsider. Israel: NSO Group CEO steps down amid mounting legal actions for Pegasus Israeli spyware firm NSO group that manufactures the controversial Pegasus software has announced a change in the top hierarchy. Reportedly, the company's Chief Executive Officer Shalev Hulio has stepped down with immediate effect from his position on Sunday. Additionaly, the company is laying off 100 employees out of its workforce of 750. Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, repeals Section 377A, but upholds marriage ban In what comes as a landmark moment in the history of Singapore, the country has decided to repeal an archaic law that criminalised gay sex. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made the announcement on Sunday during his annual policy address. Pakistan govt warns Imran Khan, mulls filing case against him over 'threat speech' The interior minister for Pakistan, Rana Sanaullah, stated on Sunday that the government was discussing whether to bring a new case against Imran Khan, the PTI chairman, for his "provocative speech" from the previous day or to add him to an existing case. Russian missiles pound Odesa as Ukrainian Independence Day draws closer Russian missiles have hit Odesa, the Ukrainian port, overnight. Artillery shells have also rained down on a city close to Europe's biggest nuclear plant. The attacks have come as Ukraine heads towards celebrating its Independence Day on August 24. It will be Ukraine's 31st Independence Day. Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tests positive for coronavirus ahead of an African trip The Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive. Kishida, 65, had to depart for a visit to Tunisia but the virus has forced him to recuperate at his official residence Alexander Dugin's daughter killed in car bomb attack: Who is Darya Dugina? Russia President Vladimir Putin's ally Alexander Dugin's daughter Darya Dugina, 30, was killed in a car bomb attack near Moscow, reports said. Alexander was in a car behind Darya's vehicle when the explosion occurred. Darya Dugina's death was confirmed by the Russian news agency TASS. She was reportedly driving a Toyota land cruiser Prado when the explosion occurred. Experts urge UK to rethink its genetics data sharing policy with China Demands are being raised in the United Kingdom to stop the sharing of confidential genetic data of over 500,000 Britons with China. Reportedly, under several hundred ongoing projects of the UK Biobank, researchers in China have been accessing 'detailed genetic information' and other health-related data of UK citizens. This victory is for my country: Oleksandr Usyk pays tribute to Ukrainian military after beating Anthony Joshua "I did this victory for my country, for all people, militaries who are defending the country. Thank you very, very much." said Oleksandr Usyk after defeating British boxer Anthony Joshua. Netizens strongly react to anonymous death threats made against BTS' Jimin and V On Friday, netizens started reporting suspicious posts containing death threats against BTS' Jimin and V on the fan community platform Weverse. Referring to the upcoming Busan concert, an anonymous person made threats to assassinate the popular South Korean singers and shared a picture of a gun. Screenshots of the death threats have been doing rounds on social media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Top 10 world news: Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, Japan's PM tests positive for COVID-19 and more

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has joined the list of world leaders to contract Covid-19 in recent times. Reportedly, the Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive.&nbsp;

Kishida, 65, had to depart for a visit to Tunisia but the virus has forced him to recuperate at his official residence, according to a statement released by the Cabinet Secretariat. It is pertinent to note that Kishida is double vaxxed and had a booster shot, earlier this month.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, Kishida had worked till August 15, performing his official duties before taking a short holiday with his family. He was supposed to return to work on Monday but will now be forced to take a break or work remotely.&nbsp;

Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-may-deploy-1000-long-range-missiles-to-counter-china-report-508820">&nbsp;Japan may deploy 1,000 long-range missiles to counter China: Report</a>

The Japanese PM, on his trip to Tunisia, was expected to attend the eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) on August 27 and 28.&nbsp;

Akin to several Asian countries, Japan is witnessing a resurgence of Covid cases in the country. Reportedly, 24,780 Covid cases were recorded on Sunday in the capital city of Tokyo alone.&nbsp;

While the hospitalisation and death rates have been low, the rise in cases has made the government rethink its steps to contain the virus. The Japanese economy grew at 2.2 per cent in the second quarter, slower than what the experts had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-economy-rebounds-from-covid-sees-growth-in-second-quarter-506920">predicted</a>.&nbsp;

Thus, making sure that the caseload remains low and the country is not closed is how the authorities may like to proceed.&nbsp;

US Prez had contracted the virus too

As reported by WION, last month, it was US President Joe Biden that contracted the virus. At the time, Biden's physician reported that he had a runny nose, dry cough, and lethargy.

Read more:<a href="US President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19, has 'mild symptoms'"> US President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19, has 'mild symptoms'</a>

Prior to taking office, 79-year-old Biden <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/days-after-recovery-us-president-joe-biden-contracts-covid-disease-again-502133">received </a>two doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine. A first booster shot was given to him in September, then a second one on March 30.&nbsp;

Moreover, a few weeks after Biden's positive report, his wife, Jill Biden also tested positive for the virus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has joined the list of world leaders to contract Covid-19 in recent times. Reportedly, the Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has joined the list of world leaders to contract Covid-19 in recent times. Reportedly, the Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive. Kishida, 65, had to depart for a visit to Tunisia but the virus has forced him to recuperate at his official residence, according to a statement released by the Cabinet Secretariat. It is pertinent to note that Kishida is double vaxxed and had a booster shot, earlier this month. According to local media reports, Kishida had worked till August 15, performing his official duties before taking a short holiday with his family. He was supposed to return to work on Monday but will now be forced to take a break or work remotely. Read More: Japan may deploy 1,000 long-range missiles to counter China: Report The Japanese PM, on his trip to Tunisia, was expected to attend the eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) on August 27 and 28. Akin to several Asian countries, Japan is witnessing a resurgence of Covid cases in the country. Reportedly, 24,780 Covid cases were recorded on Sunday in the capital city of Tokyo alone. While the hospitalisation and death rates have been low, the rise in cases has made the government rethink its steps to contain the virus. The Japanese economy grew at 2.2 per cent in the second quarter, slower than what the experts had predicted. Thus, making sure that the caseload remains low and the country is not closed is how the authorities may like to proceed. US Prez had contracted the virus too As reported by WION, last month, it was US President Joe Biden that contracted the virus. At the time, Biden's physician reported that he had a runny nose, dry cough, and lethargy. Read more: US President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19, has 'mild symptoms' Prior to taking office, 79-year-old Biden received two doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine. A first booster shot was given to him in September, then a second one on March 30. Moreover, a few weeks after Biden's positive report, his wife, Jill Biden also tested positive for the virus. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tests positive for coronavirus ahead of an African trip

Profiles of Japanese cabinet ministers after Kishida reshuffle

If reports coming from Japanese media are to be believed, the Fumio Kishida government may not allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the funeral of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

If reports coming from Japanese media are to be believed, the Fumio Kishida government may not allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the funeral of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Asian country has banned Putin from entering the country. Thus, if the Russian leader decides to participate in the funeral, he will be turned back. After a family funeral was held for Abe in the aftermath of the assassination, the government decided to host a formal state funeral on September 27 for the public and other dignitaries. The programme is expected to be held at Nippon Budokan in central Tokyo. Moreover, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is expected to extend the invitation to all big political leaders, across the globe. Read More: Shinzo Abe: A timeline of the career of the assassinated former Japanese PM Ever since the war broke out between Russia and Ukraine, Japan has picked the latter's side. Up until now, Tokyo has imposed several sanctions on Moscow while providing non-lethal military equipment to Zelensky's troops. While Japan plans to close its gates for Putin, the citizens are not impressed with the government for spending taxpayer money on the funeral, when the family has already performed one. Read More: Japanese government's decision to fund Shinzo Abe's funeral sparks protests As reported by WION, 50 people filed an injunction in a Tokyo court seeking a halt to the use of public funds for the event. In a recent public opinion poll by public broadcaster NHK, only 49 per cent supported the idea of a state funeral. Shinzo Abe was the longest-serving PM of Japan. He had stepped down from his position after developing some health complications. He was assassinated earlier this month while giving a speech in western Japan’s Nara prefecture. Tetsuya Yamagami, the assassinator, was captured on the spot and is currently enduring an investigation, with Japanese authorities expected to conduct a mental health evaluation. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Japan may not allow Vladimir Putin to attend Shinzo Abe's funeral

Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion. In elections for half of the seats in the upper house, both parties increased their combined share to 146 in the 248-seat chamber, far over the majority. This will allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to continue his tenure in office until the next scheduled election in 2025. Given the loss of Abe and the challenge of unifying his party without him, Kishida appreciated the victory but wasn’t grinning. He reiterated, "Party unity is more important than anything else," as reported by AP.

At the party election headquarters, Kishida and top party MPs spent a moment of silence for Abe, 67, who was shot while campaigning and died after severe blood loss, before attaching victory ribbons and names of candidates who won their seats on&nbsp; whiteboard.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-loss-shadows-polls-but-japan-says-it-not-halt-the-democratic-process-496055">Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process'</a>

Shinzo Abe’s death might have resulted in sympathy votes. Sunday’s election turnout was 52 per cent, up almost 3 points from the previous year’s 48.8 per cent.

Watch |&nbsp;Polling for the upper house ends in Japan; The Ruling LDP set for a strong show

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Kishida will focus on long-term initiatives like national security, his nebulous "new capitalism" economic programme and his party’s ardent desire to change the post war pacifist constitution. He also stated that Covid, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and rising prices will be his top priorities. Kishida stated that, in addition to constitutional reform, he will continue to advocate for strengthening Japan’s national security.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-cracks-down-on-cyberbullying-the-crime-can-now-get-you-a-year-in-jail-496033">Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why</a>

However, Shinzo Abe’s death has already caused a significant change, making it doubtful that Japan’s existing security and diplomatic stance will shift. His death has caused a great deal of controversy because of his pragmatic policies and ultra-nationalist views, especially in China and the Republic of Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion.

Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion. In elections for half of the seats in the upper house, both parties increased their combined share to 146 in the 248-seat chamber, far over the majority. This will allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to continue his tenure in office until the next scheduled election in 2025. Given the loss of Abe and the challenge of unifying his party without him, Kishida appreciated the victory but wasn’t grinning. He reiterated, "Party unity is more important than anything else," as reported by AP. At the party election headquarters, Kishida and top party MPs spent a moment of silence for Abe, 67, who was shot while campaigning and died after severe blood loss, before attaching victory ribbons and names of candidates who won their seats on whiteboard. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process' Shinzo Abe’s death might have resulted in sympathy votes. Sunday’s election turnout was 52 per cent, up almost 3 points from the previous year’s 48.8 per cent. Watch | Polling for the upper house ends in Japan; The Ruling LDP set for a strong show Kishida will focus on long-term initiatives like national security, his nebulous "new capitalism" economic programme and his party’s ardent desire to change the post war pacifist constitution. He also stated that Covid, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and rising prices will be his top priorities. Kishida stated that, in addition to constitutional reform, he will continue to advocate for strengthening Japan’s national security. Also read | Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why However, Shinzo Abe’s death has already caused a significant change, making it doubtful that Japan’s existing security and diplomatic stance will shift. His death has caused a great deal of controversy because of his pragmatic policies and ultra-nationalist views, especially in China and the Republic of Korea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling coalition party achieves significant victory

Japan's ruling coalition is projected to have won the most votes in an election held just two days after the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, local media said Sunday. The ex-premier's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito are expected to claim between 70 and 83 of the 125 upper house seats up for grabs, according to national broadcaster NHK. Even before Abe's murder, the LDP and Komeito were expected to cement their majority, though the final number of seats will be scrutinised for signs of whether the attack bolstered support for them. 
&nbsp; 
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told NHK, "I think it is significant we were able to complete the elections." He had insisted the election proceed despite the assassination, saying "we must never allow violence to suppress speech." Abe was gunned down at close range on Friday in the western region of Nara and died of blood loss at a local hospital. His body was brought to his family home in Tokyo on Saturday. The assassination rattled the nation and sent shockwaves around the world, prompting an outpouring of sympathy even from nations with which the hawkish Abe had sometimes difficult relations, like China and South Korea.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-elon-musks-hyperloop-still-popular-even-after-decade-of-setback-496171">Why is Elon Musk's 'hyperloop' still popular even after decade of setback?</a> 
&nbsp; 
Abe, Japan's longest-serving prime minister, who sought to lift the economy out of chronic deflation with his bold "Abenomics" policies, beef up the military and counter China's growing clout, died after being gunned down during a campaign speech two days before the election. The death of the namesake of Japan's "Abenomics" policy makes any immediate challenge to Abe's legacy highly unlikely but could eventually allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to phase out Abe's government spending and monetary stimulus.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Kishida, 64, was once described as among Abe's favoured successors and holds a solid majority in parliament with Komeito. But he faces significant policy headwinds, including rising prices and energy shortages, particularly after an early summer heatwave that led to a power crunch. 
&nbsp; 
(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Japan's ruling coalition is projected to have won the most votes in an election held just two days after the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, local media said Sunday.

Japan's ruling coalition is projected to have won the most votes in an election held just two days after the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, local media said Sunday. The ex-premier's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito are expected to claim between 70 and 83 of the 125 upper house seats up for grabs, according to national broadcaster NHK. Even before Abe's murder, the LDP and Komeito were expected to cement their majority, though the final number of seats will be scrutinised for signs of whether the attack bolstered support for them. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told NHK, "I think it is significant we were able to complete the elections." He had insisted the election proceed despite the assassination, saying "we must never allow violence to suppress speech." Abe was gunned down at close range on Friday in the western region of Nara and died of blood loss at a local hospital. His body was brought to his family home in Tokyo on Saturday. The assassination rattled the nation and sent shockwaves around the world, prompting an outpouring of sympathy even from nations with which the hawkish Abe had sometimes difficult relations, like China and South Korea. Also Read: Why is Elon Musk's 'hyperloop' still popular even after decade of setback? Abe, Japan's longest-serving prime minister, who sought to lift the economy out of chronic deflation with his bold "Abenomics" policies, beef up the military and counter China's growing clout, died after being gunned down during a campaign speech two days before the election. The death of the namesake of Japan's "Abenomics" policy makes any immediate challenge to Abe's legacy highly unlikely but could eventually allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to phase out Abe's government spending and monetary stimulus. Kishida, 64, was once described as among Abe's favoured successors and holds a solid majority in parliament with Komeito. But he faces significant policy headwinds, including rising prices and energy shortages, particularly after an early summer heatwave that led to a power crunch. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan election: Kishida's coalition projected to win in wake of Abe's assassination

Japan's former Prime Minister and also its longest-serving PM Shinzo Abe has been assassinated early this morning. He was 67-years-old and was someone who has been credited for the transformation of the Japanese economy.

'It is a barbarian act amid election campaigns,' says PM Fumio Kishida on Shinzo Abe's assassination

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning to attend a summit of leaders from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), news agency Reuters reported citing sources familiar with the matter said.&nbsp;

The summit is scheduled for late June in Spain and if he attends, it will make him the first Japanese leader to take part in a NATO summit, a gathering of the Western alliance.&nbsp;

Kishida's attendance at the June 29 to 30 event in Madrid is dependent on the domestic political situation leading up to a House of Councillors election likely to be held July 10, the sources said.&nbsp;

A report by Kyodo News mentioned citing sources that the scenario of Kishida's attendance at the event in Madrid is dependent on the House of Councillors election, which is likely to happen on July 10. The NATO summit will be held from June 29 to 30.&nbsp;

Kishida's decision regarding the summit will be finalised after the country's domestic political situation is sorted. However, the Japan-based news agency reported that a government spokesman said officials would be unable to comment on the matter.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, NATO has invited Japan to the summit, along with Australia, New Zealand and South Korea as its partners in the Asia-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The sources, who asked not to be named, told Reuters that Kishida plans to arrive in Madrid after attending a meeting of the Group of Seven (G7) industrialized nations in Germany.&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Kishida's presence at the summit would be&nbsp;treated as a strong message of international solidarity during the crisis, Kyodo's sources noted.&nbsp;

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning to attend a summit of leaders from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), news agency Reuters reported citing sources familiar with the matter said.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning to attend a summit of leaders from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), news agency Reuters reported citing sources familiar with the matter said. The summit is scheduled for late June in Spain and if he attends, it will make him the first Japanese leader to take part in a NATO summit, a gathering of the Western alliance. Kishida's attendance at the June 29 to 30 event in Madrid is dependent on the domestic political situation leading up to a House of Councillors election likely to be held July 10, the sources said. A report by Kyodo News mentioned citing sources that the scenario of Kishida's attendance at the event in Madrid is dependent on the House of Councillors election, which is likely to happen on July 10. The NATO summit will be held from June 29 to 30. Kishida's decision regarding the summit will be finalised after the country's domestic political situation is sorted. However, the Japan-based news agency reported that a government spokesman said officials would be unable to comment on the matter. Meanwhile, NATO has invited Japan to the summit, along with Australia, New Zealand and South Korea as its partners in the Asia-Pacific region. The sources, who asked not to be named, told Reuters that Kishida plans to arrive in Madrid after attending a meeting of the Group of Seven (G7) industrialized nations in Germany. Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Kishida's presence at the summit would be treated as a strong message of international solidarity during the crisis, Kyodo's sources noted. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida considers joining NATO summit in Spain: Report

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifts a wooden carved box with the traditional Rogan painting on it to the Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with him at the sidelines of the QUAD Summit in Tokyo, Japan.

The Rogan painting is usually done on a dark coloured cloth to make the intense colours stand out. The thick and shiny paint is prepared by boiling castor oil (extracted from hand-pounded castor seeds) for a few days and then adding vegetable pigment and a binding agent to it. The pastes are stored in earthen pots with water to prevent them from drying up.

A kalam or an iron rod is used to paint half the design on the cloth with the support of the fingers of the left hand, and then it is impressed on the other half of the cloth by pressing the two sides of the cloth together.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-former-japanese-pm-shinzo-abe-speaks-to-wion-on-china-taiwan-relations-481891">Exclusive | Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe speaks to WION on China-Taiwan relations</a>

This traditional Gujarati art form is practised by Hindu and Muslim Khatri communities of Gujarat. It has been practised for over a hundred years, but the art nearly died&nbsp;out in the 20th century, and now only a single-family in Nirona, Kachchh is carrying forward the tradition.

Gravitas: Exclusive: Shinzo Abe backs strong India-Japan ties

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They are popular as inexpensive substitutes for embroidered textiles. Usually, skirts, dresses, bedsheets, cushion covers, curtains and table cloths are painted with this technique. Either geometrical motifs or motifs inspired by nature like the tree-of-life are generally preferred.

PM Narendra Modi gifted two Rogan paintings including a tree-of-life to the then United States President Barak Obama during his visit to the White House, official workplace and the residence of the United States President, in 2014.

At the meeting, the two leaders appreciated the growing economic ties between India and Japan and agreed to further enhance ties by focusing on bilateral security and defence cooperation, including in the area of defence manufacturing.

(With inputs from ANI) 
 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifts a wooden carved box with the traditional Rogan painting on it to the Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with him at the sidelines of the QUAD Summit in Tokyo, Japan.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifts a wooden carved box with the traditional Rogan painting on it to the Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with him at the sidelines of the QUAD Summit in Tokyo, Japan. The Rogan painting is usually done on a dark coloured cloth to make the intense colours stand out. The thick and shiny paint is prepared by boiling castor oil (extracted from hand-pounded castor seeds) for a few days and then adding vegetable pigment and a binding agent to it. The pastes are stored in earthen pots with water to prevent them from drying up. A kalam or an iron rod is used to paint half the design on the cloth with the support of the fingers of the left hand, and then it is impressed on the other half of the cloth by pressing the two sides of the cloth together. Exclusive | Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe speaks to WION on China-Taiwan relations This traditional Gujarati art form is practised by Hindu and Muslim Khatri communities of Gujarat. It has been practised for over a hundred years, but the art nearly died out in the 20th century, and now only a single-family in Nirona, Kachchh is carrying forward the tradition. Gravitas: Exclusive: Shinzo Abe backs strong India-Japan ties They are popular as inexpensive substitutes for embroidered textiles. Usually, skirts, dresses, bedsheets, cushion covers, curtains and table cloths are painted with this technique. Either geometrical motifs or motifs inspired by nature like the tree-of-life are generally preferred. PM Narendra Modi gifted two Rogan paintings including a tree-of-life to the then United States President Barak Obama during his visit to the White House, official workplace and the residence of the United States President, in 2014. At the meeting, the two leaders appreciated the growing economic ties between India and Japan and agreed to further enhance ties by focusing on bilateral security and defence cooperation, including in the area of defence manufacturing. (With inputs from ANI) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian PM Modi gifts carved wooden box with rogan painting to Japan's PM Fumio Kishida

Ending its two-year pandemic closure, Japan on Thursday announced that it will reopen to tourists from 98 countries starting June 10.

However, the country added that travellers will only be allowed in with tour groups.

This is because these tour groups are expected to bear the responsibility of ensuring that all the travellers with it respect Japan's near-universal mask mandate and other steps that have helped keep the toll from Covid-19 remarkably low.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-man-spends-2-million-yen-to-become-a-dog-watch-how-it-turns-out-482118">Japanese man spends over $15,000 to become a dog. Watch how it turns out</a>

Beginning June 10, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said that people on scheduled tours with guides will be allowed to enter Japan.

The nation's Prime Minister has also stated his desire to relax border control rules, but progress is expected to be slow.

Small experimental package trips from Australia, Singapore, Thailand, and the United States are being hosted in Japan this week.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A trip to Japan's Little Edo

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The trial includes only 50 people who were given special visas rather than tourist visas. The experiment&nbsp;is scheduled to close on May 31.

Revisiting the border controls, the country will soon resume accepting package tours from counties like Britain, Canada, France, Malaysia and the United States.

Japan will also increase the number of airports that accept international flights to seven, adding Naha in southern Okinawa and New Chitose near Sapporo in northern Hokkaido.

For the majority of the pandemic, Japan has prevented all visitors from entering, allowing only nationals and foreign residents to do so, though even these have been turned away on occasion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-japan-prefers-higher-inflation-481910">Why Japan prefers higher inflation</a>

Following complaints that its rigorous border controls were xenophobic, Japan began loosening its restrictions earlier this year.

Currently, it&nbsp;permits up to 10,000 individuals per day to enter the country, including Japanese citizens, foreign students, and certain business travellers.

All visitors must test negative before travelling to Japan, and many must be tested again after they arrive, however, triple-vaccinated visitors from select countries are exempt from the additional test and the three-day quarantine required of others.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ending its two-year pandemic closure, Japan on Thursday announced that it will reopen to tourists from 98 countries starting June 10. However, the country added that travellers will only be allowed in with tour groups.

Ending its two-year pandemic closure, Japan on Thursday announced that it will reopen to tourists from 98 countries starting June 10. However, the country added that travellers will only be allowed in with tour groups. This is because these tour groups are expected to bear the responsibility of ensuring that all the travellers with it respect Japan's near-universal mask mandate and other steps that have helped keep the toll from Covid-19 remarkably low. Watch | Japanese man spends over $15,000 to become a dog. Watch how it turns out Beginning June 10, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said that people on scheduled tours with guides will be allowed to enter Japan. The nation's Prime Minister has also stated his desire to relax border control rules, but progress is expected to be slow. Small experimental package trips from Australia, Singapore, Thailand, and the United States are being hosted in Japan this week. Watch | Gravitas: A trip to Japan's Little Edo The trial includes only 50 people who were given special visas rather than tourist visas. The experiment is scheduled to close on May 31. Revisiting the border controls, the country will soon resume accepting package tours from counties like Britain, Canada, France, Malaysia and the United States. Japan will also increase the number of airports that accept international flights to seven, adding Naha in southern Okinawa and New Chitose near Sapporo in northern Hokkaido. For the majority of the pandemic, Japan has prevented all visitors from entering, allowing only nationals and foreign residents to do so, though even these have been turned away on occasion. Also read | Why Japan prefers higher inflation Following complaints that its rigorous border controls were xenophobic, Japan began loosening its restrictions earlier this year. Currently, it permits up to 10,000 individuals per day to enter the country, including Japanese citizens, foreign students, and certain business travellers. All visitors must test negative before travelling to Japan, and many must be tested again after they arrive, however, triple-vaccinated visitors from select countries are exempt from the additional test and the three-day quarantine required of others. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan to resume tourism after two-years of strict pandemic closure

Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifts a wooden carved box with the traditional Rogan painting on it to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with him at the sidelines of the QUAD Summit in Tokyo, Japan.

&nbsp;

The Rogan painting is usually done on a dark coloured cloth to make the intense colours stand out. The thick and shiny paint is prepared by boiling castor oil (extracted from hand-pounded castor seeds) for a few days and then adding vegetable pigment and a binding agent to it. The pastes are stored in earthen pots with water to prevent them from drying up.

&nbsp;

A kalam or an iron rod is used to paint half the design cloth with the support of the fingers of the left hand, and then it is impressed on the other half of the cloth by pressing the two sides of the cloth together.

&nbsp;

This traditional Gujarati art form is practised by Hindu and Muslim Khatri communities of Gujarat. It has been practised for over a hundred years, but the art nearly dies out in the 20th century, and now only a single-family in Nirona, Kachchh is carrying forward the tradition.

&nbsp;

They are popular as inexpensive substitutes for embroidered textiles. Usually, skirts, dresses, bedsheets, cushion covers, curtains and table cloths are painted with this technique. Either geometrical motifs or motifs inspired by nature like the tree-of-life are generally preferred.

&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi gifted two Rogan paintings including a tree-of-life to the then United States President Barak Obama during his visit to the White House, official workplace and the residence of the United States President, in 2014.

&nbsp;

At the meeting, the two leaders appreciated the growing economic ties between India and Japan, and agreed to further enhance ties by focusing on bilateral security and defence cooperation, including in the area of defence manufacturing.

&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifts a wooden carved box with the traditional Rogan painting on it to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with him at the sidelines of the QUAD Summit in Tokyo, Japan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifts a wooden carved box with the traditional Rogan painting on it to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with him at the sidelines of the QUAD Summit in Tokyo, Japan. The Rogan painting is usually done on a dark coloured cloth to make the intense colours stand out. The thick and shiny paint is prepared by boiling castor oil (extracted from hand-pounded castor seeds) for a few days and then adding vegetable pigment and a binding agent to it. The pastes are stored in earthen pots with water to prevent them from drying up. A kalam or an iron rod is used to paint half the design cloth with the support of the fingers of the left hand, and then it is impressed on the other half of the cloth by pressing the two sides of the cloth together. This traditional Gujarati art form is practised by Hindu and Muslim Khatri communities of Gujarat. It has been practised for over a hundred years, but the art nearly dies out in the 20th century, and now only a single-family in Nirona, Kachchh is carrying forward the tradition. They are popular as inexpensive substitutes for embroidered textiles. Usually, skirts, dresses, bedsheets, cushion covers, curtains and table cloths are painted with this technique. Either geometrical motifs or motifs inspired by nature like the tree-of-life are generally preferred. PM Narendra Modi gifted two Rogan paintings including a tree-of-life to the then United States President Barak Obama during his visit to the White House, official workplace and the residence of the United States President, in 2014. At the meeting, the two leaders appreciated the growing economic ties between India and Japan, and agreed to further enhance ties by focusing on bilateral security and defence cooperation, including in the area of defence manufacturing. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi gifts rogan painted, carved wooden box to Japanese PM

US President Joe Biden and Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida attended a joint news conference after their bilateral meeting at Akasaka Palace in Tokyo, Japan.

Biden, Kishida hold joint press conference: US reiterates commitment to Japan's defence

The QUAD summit is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (May 24) as leaders of Japan, India, Australia and the US will meet in Tokyo to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss global issues. Ahead of this the US President Joe Biden held bilateral talks with Japanese PM Fumio Kishida.

QUAD Summit 2022: US President Biden holds bilateral with Japan PM Kishida

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Japan to attend the Quad summit on Tuesday (May 24), where he will meet the leaders of the United States, Japan and Australia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Japan to attend the Quad summit on Tuesday (May 24), where he will meet the leaders of the United States, Japan and Australia. Before boarding the plane, PM Modi on Sunday said that the Quad leaders will once again have the opportunity to discuss various initiatives and issues of mutual interest. PM Modi received a rousing welcome when he reached Tokyo Monday morning. On his first day, he met with business leaders and held talks aiming to boost investments in India. PM Modi chaired a roundtable with Japanese business leaders where top executives and CEOs of 34 Japanese companies participated. Quad Summit 2022 Live Updates: PM Modi meets Indian diaspora As per the official statement, the companies were from various sectors, including automobiles, electronics, semiconductors, steel, technology, trading and banking and finance. The Indian Prime Minister also said that how India has attracted a record FDI of USD 84 billion in the previous financial year despite a slump in global FDI. The official release also noted: "He invited greater participation by Japanese companies in India and proposed celebrating Japan's contribution to India's development journey in the form of a 'Japan Week'". ALSO READ | Quad Summit 2022: Japanese kid's fluent Hindi impresses Indian PM Narendra Modi, watch his reaction On Tuesday, PM Modi will attend the Quad summit (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue), which is widely regarded as a counterweight to China that builds its economic and military weight in the Indo-Pacific region. As far as China is concerned, what steps Quad is likely to take to ensure a free Indo-Pacific, especially after US President Joe Biden said that the US remains committed to Japan's defence. Biden also announced that 13 countries have joined a new, US-led Asia-Pacific trade initiative touted as a counterweight to China's aggressive expansion. Watch this in-depth report: × Biden also said that China was "flirting with danger" and said the US would defend Taiwan militarily if Beijing invaded. On being asked whether the US would intervene militarily in case an against has been made to forcibly take control of Taiwan, Biden said, "That's the commitment we made." China considers Taiwan a renegade province to be unified with the mainland. "We agreed with the One China policy, we signed on to it... but the idea that (Taiwan) can be taken by force is just not appropriate. It will dislocate the entire region and be another action similar to what happened in Ukraine," said Biden. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WION reports from Tokyo: PM Modi's crucial meetings with business leaders; focus on Quad summit

Quad Summit 2022: PM Narendra Modi receives rousing welcome in Tokyo, meets top business leaders - see pics

United States President Joe Biden on Monday (May 23) said that 13 countries have joined a new, US-led Asia-Pacific trade initiative. The alliance is deemed a counterweight to China's aggressive expansion in the region.&nbsp;

Biden embarked on an East Asia trip where he visited South Korea and then arrived in Japan to attend the four-nation Quad summit, which is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (May 24).&nbsp;

Ahead of the Quad summit in Tokyo, Biden launched Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) in the Japanese capital in the presence of Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio.&nbsp;

Quad Summit 2022 | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-summit-2022-leaders-of-japan-united-states-india-australia-meet-in-tokyo-481143">Live Updates:&nbsp;Indian PM pens op-ed for Japanese daily, hails India-Japan ties</a>

At a press conference alongside the Japanese PM, Biden said, "The United States and Japan, together with 11 other nations will be launching" the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity.&nbsp;

Biden added, "This framework is a commitment to working with our close friends and partners in the region on challenges that matter most to ensuring economic competitiveness in the 21st century".&nbsp;

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidzi9pglDFS5Xx" /><meta charset="utf-8" />

List of countries who will be 'initial partners' of the US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework released:

US

Australia

Brunei

India

Indonesia

Japan

South Korea&nbsp;

Malaysia

New Zealand

Philippines

Singapore

Thailand

Vietnam

WATCH |&nbsp;Biden, Kishida hold joint press conference: US reiterates commitment to Japan's defence

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-summit-2022-japanese-kids-fluent-hindi-impresses-indian-pm-narendra-modi-watch-his-reaction-481364">Quad Summit 2022: Japanese kid's fluent Hindi impresses Indian PM Narendra Modi, watch his reaction</a>

As per the US, the deal will provide a way to sort through key issues from climate change to supply chain resilience and digital trade to the countries that join. Although, the deal doesn't offer tariff relief or market access to the countries.&nbsp;

The framework will help countries together to negotiate the various aspects of trade and also to discuss how to consider potential future members, including China, which is not taking part, officials told reporters. Taiwan was also left out of the initial talks.&nbsp;

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United States President Joe Biden on Monday (May 23) said that 13 countries have joined a new, US-led Asia-Pacific trade initiative. The alliance is deemed a counterweight to China's aggressive expansion in the region.

United States President Joe Biden on Monday (May 23) said that 13 countries have joined a new, US-led Asia-Pacific trade initiative. The alliance is deemed a counterweight to China's aggressive expansion in the region. Biden embarked on an East Asia trip where he visited South Korea and then arrived in Japan to attend the four-nation Quad summit, which is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (May 24). Ahead of the Quad summit in Tokyo, Biden launched Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) in the Japanese capital in the presence of Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio. Quad Summit 2022 | Live Updates: Indian PM pens op-ed for Japanese daily, hails India-Japan ties At a press conference alongside the Japanese PM, Biden said, "The United States and Japan, together with 11 other nations will be launching" the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity. Biden added, "This framework is a commitment to working with our close friends and partners in the region on challenges that matter most to ensuring economic competitiveness in the 21st century". List of countries who will be 'initial partners' of the US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework released: US Australia Brunei India Indonesia Japan South Korea Malaysia New Zealand Philippines Singapore Thailand Vietnam WATCH | Biden, Kishida hold joint press conference: US reiterates commitment to Japan's defence × ALSO READ | Quad Summit 2022: Japanese kid's fluent Hindi impresses Indian PM Narendra Modi, watch his reaction As per the US, the deal will provide a way to sort through key issues from climate change to supply chain resilience and digital trade to the countries that join. Although, the deal doesn't offer tariff relief or market access to the countries. The framework will help countries together to negotiate the various aspects of trade and also to discuss how to consider potential future members, including China, which is not taking part, officials told reporters. Taiwan was also left out of the initial talks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US President Joe Biden says 13 countries to join new Asia-Pacific trade initiative

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Japan to attend the Quad leaders meeting on May 24 (Tuesday) but there's an interesting fact revealed regarding his travel. It has been revealed that PM Modi prefers night travel for foreign tours, India-based news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Ahead of the summit, PM Modi on Sunday (May 22) tweeted: "This evening, I will be leaving for Japan to take part in the second in-person Quad Summit. The Quad leaders will once again have the opportunity to discuss the various Quad initiatives and other issues of mutual interest."&nbsp;

After analysing his travelling patterns, it has been understood that PM Modi apparently prefers night travel. ANI reported that PM Modi tries to save time. Most of the time, he attends engagements and meetings the next day and after that, he again travels in case needed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-summit-2022-leaders-of-japan-united-states-india-australia-meet-in-tokyo-481143">WION @ Quad: Updates from Japan&nbsp;</a>

Earlier this month, PM Modi was on a three-day visit to Germany, Denmark and France. He recently visited Nepal on Buddha Jayanti. ANI analysed his travel timings as it reported that PM Modi spent just one night in Germany and Denmark each.&nbsp;

PM Modi will be leaving on May 22 night for the Quad summit, where he will hold meetings with world leaders, and top businessmen, and will also address the Indian community.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modis-schedule-for-quad-summit-in-tokyo-23-engagements-in-40-hours-of-stay-481163">Quad summit 2022: Here's PM Narendra Modi's schedule for Tokyo visit</a>

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This evening, I will be leaving for Japan to take part in the second in-person Quad Summit. The Quad leaders will once again have the opportunity to discuss the various Quad initiatives and other issues of mutual interest. <a href="https://t.co/xTSH2sTYI1">https://t.co/xTSH2sTYI1</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1528269908873969664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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As per ANI, a source who knows PM Modi for several years explained that long back in the early nineties he used to put the special frequent-flyer card to good use.&nbsp;

The source added that PM Modi used to visit the destinations during the day and usually take the last flight back so that hotel-stay money could be saved. He used to sleep in the plane and airports very often, the source added.&nbsp;

Ahead of the visit, PM Modi in a statement said: "In Japan, I will also participate in the second in-person Quad Leaders’ Summit, which will provide an opportunity for the leaders of the four Quad countries to review the progress of Quad initiatives. We will also exchange views about developments in the Indo-Pacific region and global issues of mutual interest."&nbsp;

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Japan to attend the Quad leaders meeting on May 24 (Tuesday) but there's an interesting fact revealed regarding his travel.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Japan to attend the Quad leaders meeting on May 24 (Tuesday) but there's an interesting fact revealed regarding his travel. It has been revealed that PM Modi prefers night travel for foreign tours, India-based news agency ANI reported. Ahead of the summit, PM Modi on Sunday (May 22) tweeted: "This evening, I will be leaving for Japan to take part in the second in-person Quad Summit. The Quad leaders will once again have the opportunity to discuss the various Quad initiatives and other issues of mutual interest." After analysing his travelling patterns, it has been understood that PM Modi apparently prefers night travel. ANI reported that PM Modi tries to save time. Most of the time, he attends engagements and meetings the next day and after that, he again travels in case needed. WION @ Quad: Updates from Japan Earlier this month, PM Modi was on a three-day visit to Germany, Denmark and France. He recently visited Nepal on Buddha Jayanti. ANI analysed his travel timings as it reported that PM Modi spent just one night in Germany and Denmark each. PM Modi will be leaving on May 22 night for the Quad summit, where he will hold meetings with world leaders, and top businessmen, and will also address the Indian community. ALSO READ | Quad summit 2022: Here's PM Narendra Modi's schedule for Tokyo visit This evening, I will be leaving for Japan to take part in the second in-person Quad Summit. The Quad leaders will once again have the opportunity to discuss the various Quad initiatives and other issues of mutual interest. https://t.co/xTSH2sTYI1 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 22, 2022 × As per ANI, a source who knows PM Modi for several years explained that long back in the early nineties he used to put the special frequent-flyer card to good use. The source added that PM Modi used to visit the destinations during the day and usually take the last flight back so that hotel-stay money could be saved. He used to sleep in the plane and airports very often, the source added. Ahead of the visit, PM Modi in a statement said: "In Japan, I will also participate in the second in-person Quad Leaders’ Summit, which will provide an opportunity for the leaders of the four Quad countries to review the progress of Quad initiatives. We will also exchange views about developments in the Indo-Pacific region and global issues of mutual interest." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Why does Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi prefer night travel for foreign tours?

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to host his Japanese counterpart for Fumio Kishida in London today. The two leaders are expected to agree on a new defense agreement measures to reduce dependency on Russian energy supplies.

UK PM will host Japanese leader Fumio Kishida in London

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