Japan has extended the state of emergency until May 31. Japan's PM Shinzō Abe announced the extension and added that the experts will review the situation on May 14. Watch report.

COVID-19 Pandemic: State of emergency in Japan extended till May 31

The Japanese government has conferred a Manipuri doctor to the 'Order of Rising Sun' for his efforts in promoting a better understanding of Japan in India and bringing the two nations closer.&nbsp;

The Manipuri doctor who has been conferred for the 'Order of Rising Sun', is Thangjam Dhabali Singh. He is an allopathic doctor and the founder of Manipur Tourism Forum (MTF).&nbsp;

The 'Order of Rising Sun' was formed under the Japanese Emperor Meiji in 1875, and it is conferred on individuals with achievements in international relations, promotion of Japanese culture, environmental preservation, welfare or achievements in their fields.

Singh had organised the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Imphal that was fought between the Japanese and British India troops during the Second World War. This event was attended by several Japanese citizens including the Embassy of Japan officials.&nbsp;

"With support from the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and the Nippon Foundation of Japan, the Imphal Peace Foundation was launched on June 22 last year. The MTF played an important role in giving shape to it during Dhabali Singh's tenure as president of the forum," the release from Embassy of Japan in India said.

The Embassy of Japan in India has paid tributes to Singh's long years of service in strengthening Japan-India relationship, it added. 
&nbsp;

The Japanese government has conferred a Manipuri doctor to the 'Order of Rising Sun' for his efforts in promoting a better understanding of Japan in India and bringing the two nations closer.

The Japanese government has conferred a Manipuri doctor to the 'Order of Rising Sun' for his efforts in promoting a better understanding of Japan in India and bringing the two nations closer. The Manipuri doctor who has been conferred for the 'Order of Rising Sun', is Thangjam Dhabali Singh. He is an allopathic doctor and the founder of Manipur Tourism Forum (MTF). The 'Order of Rising Sun' was formed under the Japanese Emperor Meiji in 1875, and it is conferred on individuals with achievements in international relations, promotion of Japanese culture, environmental preservation, welfare or achievements in their fields. Singh had organised the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Imphal that was fought between the Japanese and British India troops during the Second World War. This event was attended by several Japanese citizens including the Embassy of Japan officials. "With support from the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and the Nippon Foundation of Japan, the Imphal Peace Foundation was launched on June 22 last year. The MTF played an important role in giving shape to it during Dhabali Singh's tenure as president of the forum," the release from Embassy of Japan in India said. The Embassy of Japan in India has paid tributes to Singh's long years of service in strengthening Japan-India relationship, it added.

Manipuri doctor Thangjam Dhabali Singh conferred Japan's 'Order of Rising Sun'

Japan's March jobless rate rose to its highest in a year, while job availability slipped to a more than three-year low, official data showed on Tuesday, as the coronavirus outbreak and containment measures caused the nation's job market to ease.

While Japan`s comparatively low jobless rate is the envy of many nations, rises in the politically sensitive figure could lead to calls for Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government to do more to stimulate the economy.

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 2.5%, its highest level since March last year, internal affairs ministry data showed, and matching economists' 2.5% median forecast.

The unemployment rate stood at 2.2% in December, the lowest since 1992.

The jobs-to-applicants ratio fell to 1.39 in March, the lowest since September 2016 and below the median forecast of 1.40, health ministry figures showed.

"The employment situation is expected to worsen further in April, so I think it's still the start of a deterioration," said Atsushi Takeda, chief economist at Itochu Research Institute.

"There is no doubt that the number of unemployed people is rising," he said. "I think there will be a sharp reduction in job offers in April."

While conditions in Japan's labour market aren't as severe as in the United States, unemployment in the country could rise to 4% in the months ahead, Takeda said.

"A temporary increase (in unemployment) can`t be avoided, I think," he said.

The steep drop-off in the jobs-to-applicants ratio also reflected a change in the survey method from January, a health ministry official told Reuters.

The ratio had stayed at an over 40-year high of 1.63 from late 2018 through to early last year.

The latest batch of data is likely to increase pressure on the government and Bank of Japan to take steps to prevent the labour market from worsening as declining demand at home and abroad hits businesses' bottom lines.

To ease the pain on the economy, the BOJ on Monday unveiled fresh steps to ease corporate funding strains and pledged to buy unlimited amounts of bonds to keep borrowing costs low as the government tries to stimulate demand by increased spending.

The central bank also slashed its growth forecast and projected inflation would come in well below its 2% target for three more years, suggesting its near-term focus will be to fight the coronavirus crisis.

Last week, the government boosted its spending package to a record $1.1 trillion yen to expand cash payouts to every citizen, as the coronavirus outbreak threatens to hit large parts of the world`s third-largest economy.

The package will be funded partly by issuing more bonds, straining Japan`s already tattered finances.

Japan's March jobless rate rose to its highest in a year, while job availability slipped to a more than three-year low, official data showed on Tuesday, as the coronavirus outbreak and containment measures caused the nation's job market to ease.

Japan's March jobless rate rose to its highest in a year, while job availability slipped to a more than three-year low, official data showed on Tuesday, as the coronavirus outbreak and containment measures caused the nation's job market to ease. While Japan`s comparatively low jobless rate is the envy of many nations, rises in the politically sensitive figure could lead to calls for Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government to do more to stimulate the economy. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 2.5%, its highest level since March last year, internal affairs ministry data showed, and matching economists' 2.5% median forecast. The unemployment rate stood at 2.2% in December, the lowest since 1992. The jobs-to-applicants ratio fell to 1.39 in March, the lowest since September 2016 and below the median forecast of 1.40, health ministry figures showed. "The employment situation is expected to worsen further in April, so I think it's still the start of a deterioration," said Atsushi Takeda, chief economist at Itochu Research Institute. "There is no doubt that the number of unemployed people is rising," he said. "I think there will be a sharp reduction in job offers in April." While conditions in Japan's labour market aren't as severe as in the United States, unemployment in the country could rise to 4% in the months ahead, Takeda said. "A temporary increase (in unemployment) can`t be avoided, I think," he said. The steep drop-off in the jobs-to-applicants ratio also reflected a change in the survey method from January, a health ministry official told Reuters. The ratio had stayed at an over 40-year high of 1.63 from late 2018 through to early last year. The latest batch of data is likely to increase pressure on the government and Bank of Japan to take steps to prevent the labour market from worsening as declining demand at home and abroad hits businesses' bottom lines. To ease the pain on the economy, the BOJ on Monday unveiled fresh steps to ease corporate funding strains and pledged to buy unlimited amounts of bonds to keep borrowing costs low as the government tries to stimulate demand by increased spending. The central bank also slashed its growth forecast and projected inflation would come in well below its 2% target for three more years, suggesting its near-term focus will be to fight the coronavirus crisis. Last week, the government boosted its spending package to a record $1.1 trillion yen to expand cash payouts to every citizen, as the coronavirus outbreak threatens to hit large parts of the world`s third-largest economy. The package will be funded partly by issuing more bonds, straining Japan`s already tattered finances.

Japan's March jobless rate rises to one-year high as coronavirus hits economy

Osaka's Mayor in Japan, Ichiro Matsui said that men should shop for basic groceries amidst spread of Coronavirus pandemic as women take more time in buying groceries and spend more time outside than men. Osaka Mayor get slammed & criticised for this sexist remark.

Japanese Mayor: 'Men should shop amid COVID-19 outbreak as women take more time in buying groceries'

The mayor of Japan's Osaka came under fire after he made sexist comments amid coronavirus pandemic. Speaking to reporters on Thursday,&nbsp;Ichiro Matsui said that women should refrain from grocery shopping as they are "indecisive" and "take a long time".

Men should be entrusted with grocery runs because women "take a long time as they browse around and hesitate about this and that," local media quoted the 56-year-old leader as saying.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-death-toll-passes-190000-us-has-most-fatalities-with-over-50000-294484">Global coronavirus death toll passes 190,000; US has most fatalities with over 50,000</a>

"Men can snap up things they are told (to buy) and go, so I think it's good that they go shopping, avoiding human contact," the Osaka mayor also said.

During the media interaction, Matsui was challenged by a reporter after his statement to which he responded saying that his remarks might be "viewed as out-of-touch, but said they were true in his family."

The statement sparked massive outrage on social media, as people condemned the Japanese leader's statement and accused him of being "disrespectful &nbsp;to women and men."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-prosecute-american-citizen-for-alleged-meddling-in-hong-kong-294470">China to prosecute American citizen for alleged meddling in Hong Kong</a>

Another user on social media said that his comment was "full of prejudice against women". &nbsp;"There are indecisive men and nimble and sharp women," the user added.&nbsp;

Japan is under a state of emergency over the pandemic, and residents in some areas have been asked to shop less frequently and only send one family member out to get supplies to limit contact.

Despite its highly educated female population, Japan ranked 121 out of 153 countries in the World Economic Forum's 2020 gender gap index, primarily because of its poor showing in political representation.

Traditional gender roles are still deeply rooted in Japanese society and women are often still expected to take primary responsibility for childcare and domestic chores, even while holding down professional jobs.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The mayor of Japan's Osaka came under fire after he made sexist comments amid coronavirus pandemic. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Ichiro Matsui said that women should refrain from grocery shopping as they are "indecisive" and "take a long time".

The mayor of Japan's Osaka came under fire after he made sexist comments amid coronavirus pandemic. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Ichiro Matsui said that women should refrain from grocery shopping as they are "indecisive" and "take a long time". Men should be entrusted with grocery runs because women "take a long time as they browse around and hesitate about this and that," local media quoted the 56-year-old leader as saying. Also read: Global coronavirus death toll passes 190,000; US has most fatalities with over 50,000 "Men can snap up things they are told (to buy) and go, so I think it's good that they go shopping, avoiding human contact," the Osaka mayor also said. During the media interaction, Matsui was challenged by a reporter after his statement to which he responded saying that his remarks might be "viewed as out-of-touch, but said they were true in his family." The statement sparked massive outrage on social media, as people condemned the Japanese leader's statement and accused him of being "disrespectful to women and men." Also read: China to prosecute American citizen for alleged meddling in Hong Kong Another user on social media said that his comment was "full of prejudice against women". "There are indecisive men and nimble and sharp women," the user added. Japan is under a state of emergency over the pandemic, and residents in some areas have been asked to shop less frequently and only send one family member out to get supplies to limit contact. Despite its highly educated female population, Japan ranked 121 out of 153 countries in the World Economic Forum's 2020 gender gap index, primarily because of its poor showing in political representation. Traditional gender roles are still deeply rooted in Japanese society and women are often still expected to take primary responsibility for childcare and domestic chores, even while holding down professional jobs. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan: Osaka mayor under fire after he says men should do grocery shopping as women are 'indecisive'

Over 100,000 tulips were chopped at a Japanese park in Chiba prefecture to avoid visitors congregating at the park amid the coronavirus state of emergency declared by the government.

Japanese park cuts 100,000 tulips to avoid people gathering amid coronavirus crisis

After a state of emergency was announced in Japan by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on April 7, babies in the country&nbsp;tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-fears-of-second-coronavirus-wave-in-chinas-northeast-294018" hreflang="en">After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast</a>

A total of eight children have been tested positive at a Tokyo care centre. The incident occurred&nbsp;after a staff member tested positive on April 16.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germanys-vaccines-regulator-approves-first-trial-of-covid-19-vaccine-candidate-294014" hreflang="en">Germany's vaccines regulator approves first trial of COVID-19 vaccine candidate</a>

The officials of Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital said the&nbsp;children have been hospitalised, and other kids, who tested negative, are still under observation.

Tests have also been conducted for other 46 employees of the care centre, who have self-isolated themselves at home for the time being. The children who tested positive did not have high fever, according to local media sources.&nbsp;

While Japan has been trying its&nbsp;best to avoid the spread of the virus, the country has been battling with positive cases that have been in hospital transmissions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-records-higher-one-day-coronavirus-death-toll-for-second-consecutive-day-294008" hreflang="en">Spain records higher one-day coronavirus death toll for second consecutive day</a>

Shinzo Abe had announced a national emergency on April 7 as the number of positive cases were still rising even after two weeks of lockdown in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. The spread of infection has also been accelerating in other parts of Japan.&nbsp;

The death toll in Japan now stands at 276, out of 11,137 positive COVID-19 cases. This tally excludes the positive cases from Diamond Princess cruise ship which was quarantined on the shore of Tokyo two months ago, and also the residents who returned back to Japan from China through charter flights.

Following the lockdown and the rapid increase in cases, around 220 Indians, which includes 92 dependants, have reached out to the Indian Embassy in Tokyo with a request to be evacuated to India.

After a state of emergency was announced in Japan by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on April 7, babies in the country tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday. Also read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast A total of eight children have been tested positive at a Tokyo care centre.

After a state of emergency was announced in Japan by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on April 7, babies in the country tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday. Also read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast A total of eight children have been tested positive at a Tokyo care centre. The incident occurred after a staff member tested positive on April 16. Also read: Germany's vaccines regulator approves first trial of COVID-19 vaccine candidate The officials of Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital said the children have been hospitalised, and other kids, who tested negative, are still under observation. Tests have also been conducted for other 46 employees of the care centre, who have self-isolated themselves at home for the time being. The children who tested positive did not have high fever, according to local media sources. While Japan has been trying its best to avoid the spread of the virus, the country has been battling with positive cases that have been in hospital transmissions. Also read: Spain records higher one-day coronavirus death toll for second consecutive day Shinzo Abe had announced a national emergency on April 7 as the number of positive cases were still rising even after two weeks of lockdown in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. The spread of infection has also been accelerating in other parts of Japan. The death toll in Japan now stands at 276, out of 11,137 positive COVID-19 cases. This tally excludes the positive cases from Diamond Princess cruise ship which was quarantined on the shore of Tokyo two months ago, and also the residents who returned back to Japan from China through charter flights. Following the lockdown and the rapid increase in cases, around 220 Indians, which includes 92 dependants, have reached out to the Indian Embassy in Tokyo with a request to be evacuated to India.

COVID-19 : Babies test positive in Japanese care centre

Iran claims to have developed a test that can detect the Coronavirus in 5 seconds. Meanwhile, there's a 22% drop in new home construction in the United States. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the big global developments for Friday.

Gravitas: The big global developments for April 17 | Wuhan Coronavirus

Japan has decided to offer 100,000 yen which equals to $930 as a cash payment to every resident. The&nbsp;announcement was made by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as a measure to contain the accelerated coronavirus cases which has been affecting the world's third-largest economy.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-expands-coronavirus-emergency-nationwide-amid-spike-in-cases-292928">Japan expands coronavirus emergency nationwide amid spike in cases</a>

In a televised news conference Shinzo Abe said: "We are moving quickly to deliver cash to all people." He held the conference to explain his previous decision which involved the expansion of the emergency.&nbsp;

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Previously, it was planned that the residents who have found it difficult to get an income due to the lockdown will get a stimulus payment three times the current amount. But the plan was later scrapped and Abe apologised for it.&nbsp;

Despite having relatively fewer coronavirus cases than the US and Europe, Tokyo saw a surge in cases on Friday with over 201 people testing&nbsp;positive which has left the top brass concerned.

On Thursday, Japan decided to expand the coronavirus emergency to the whole country covering all prefectures.

"Areas, where a state of emergency should be carried out, will be expanded from the seven prefectures to all prefectures," Japanese PM Shinzo Abe said.

The Japanese prime minister had earlier declared an emergency in seven regions which included the capital Tokyo. The government had declared a state of emergency after medical experts warned the disease could grow exponentially if people did not stay inside.

Japan was set to host the 2020 Summer Olympics in July but due to surge in cases, the games were postponed and are due to be held in 2021.&nbsp;

Japan has decided to offer 100,000 yen which equals to $930 as a cash payment to every resident. The announcement was made by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as a measure to contain the accelerated coronavirus cases which has been affecting the world's third-largest economy.

Japan has decided to offer 100,000 yen which equals to $930 as a cash payment to every resident. The announcement was made by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as a measure to contain the accelerated coronavirus cases which has been affecting the world's third-largest economy. Also read: Japan expands coronavirus emergency nationwide amid spike in cases In a televised news conference Shinzo Abe said: "We are moving quickly to deliver cash to all people." He held the conference to explain his previous decision which involved the expansion of the emergency. × Previously, it was planned that the residents who have found it difficult to get an income due to the lockdown will get a stimulus payment three times the current amount. But the plan was later scrapped and Abe apologised for it. Despite having relatively fewer coronavirus cases than the US and Europe, Tokyo saw a surge in cases on Friday with over 201 people testing positive which has left the top brass concerned. On Thursday, Japan decided to expand the coronavirus emergency to the whole country covering all prefectures. "Areas, where a state of emergency should be carried out, will be expanded from the seven prefectures to all prefectures," Japanese PM Shinzo Abe said. The Japanese prime minister had earlier declared an emergency in seven regions which included the capital Tokyo. The government had declared a state of emergency after medical experts warned the disease could grow exponentially if people did not stay inside. Japan was set to host the 2020 Summer Olympics in July but due to surge in cases, the games were postponed and are due to be held in 2021.

Japan to offer $930 to every household as stimulus payment amid coronavirus pandemic

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expanded a state of emergency to cover the whole country on Thursday in an attempt to prevent the further spread of the new coronavirus

Japan declares nationwide state of emergency amid coronavirus spread

Until last year, leading countries were happy to call China the workshop of the world. Also read: Coronavirus replaced by racism, xenophobia and hate against foreigners in China Not anymore, the over dependence on China has cost them dearly.

Until last year, leading countries were happy to call China the workshop of the world. Also read: Coronavirus replaced by racism, xenophobia and hate against foreigners in China Not anymore, the over dependence on China has cost them dearly. China has been the world's largest exporter of goods since 2009 but this might change now in the times of "social distancing". Also read: France to extend the lockdown as Thailand begins mobile testing Maybe, the time has come to launch a campaign of "economic distancing" from China. Two countries are ready to do just that, the United States and Japan. Both countries are badly hit by the coronavirus. They are learning their lessons and taking steps to bring their businesses back home. Japan is taking the lead. On Tuesday, the country unveiled its largest-ever economic stimulus package. It's worth a whopping $990 billion. This "world-class" relief package has a unique allocation. Japan wants to keep its businesses safe. So, it is ready to pay them to shift their factories out of China. A little more than $2 billion has been set aside for this. This fund will be used to pay businesses who want to move back to Japan. Another $215 million will be made available to those who want to move to other countries. This has caught Beijing off guard. China's foreign ministry was asked about Japan's moves yesterday. What about the United States? The exodus of American companies had already begun. Thanks to US President Donald Trump, his "America First" agenda had forced companies to rethink their supply chains. The trade war forced some to ditch China. Last year, more than 50 American companies had reportedly escaped from China. Now, they could leave at a much faster rate. A report by consulting firm Kearney claims companies are rethinking their approach. Now, they would want to diversify their sourcing and supply. A fragile system that broke instantaneously, when China shutdown its entire country. Now, half of the earth's humanity is under a lockdown. That's more than three billion people. Companies that could not get their suppliers earlier, now can't sell because the stores need to remain shut. The losses are mounting and the coronavirus outbreak is a black swan moment for the world. It is forcing countries, even businesses to rethink their approach. Japan and the United States might have just shown them the way. Which country is the next global export hub? A group of five countries, known as the "mighty five" -- could benefit from withdrawals from China. India is one of them. It can offer manpower at the same scale as China. The trade war benefited some emerging markets. They will be fighting for new contracts after the global lockdown lifts. Vietnam is one of them. Before the coronavirus crisis, it was exporting around 5,000 products to the United States. Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia could gain too, again due to, low labour and raw material costs.

As coronavirus grips China, Japan & US take lead to pull out companies

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announces the state of emergency. He also unveils a stimulus package to tackle the pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Japan PM announces state of emergency, unveils stimulus package to tackle COVID-19

Japan on Monday said that it is imposing a state of emergency in Tokyo and six other prefectures as early as Tuesday to try to stop the coronavirus, the prime minister said.

Japan on Monday said that it is imposing a state of emergency in Tokyo and six other prefectures as early as Tuesday to try to stop the coronavirus, the prime minister said. The government is also preparing a $990 billion stimulus package to soften the economic blow. More than 3,500 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in Japan while 85 have died so far. But the numbers keep rising with particular alarm over the spread in Tokyo, which has more than 1,000 cases, including 83 new ones on Monday. "Given the state of crisis on the medical front, the government was advised to prepare to declare the state of emergency," Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told reporters. An emergency, which Abe said would last about a month, will give governors authority to call on people to stay at home and businesses to close, but will not be as restrictive as lockdowns in some other countries. In most cases, there will be no penalties for ignoring requests to stay at home, and enforcement will rely more on peer pressure and respect for authority. It was not immediately clear how much of that package would be new government spending. "The government wants to help businesses continue and protect jobs," Abe said. (With inputs from Reuters)

Japan to declare coronavirus emergency, launch $990 billion stimulus: PM Abe

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is likely to declare state of emergency to curb the spread of coronavirus as the confirmed number of cases in the country surged to over 4,500, local media reported.

Japan all set to declare state of emergency

Amid reports that Japan capital could witness second wave of coronavirus cases, Tokyo governor on Sunday said that the city has reported 143 new cases, the highest daily jump bringing the number of cases in the Japanese capital to more than 1,000.

Amid reports that Japan capital could witness second wave of coronavirus cases, Tokyo governor on Sunday said that the city has reported 143 new cases, the highest daily jump bringing the number of cases in the Japanese capital to more than 1,000. Tokyo's metropolitan government has asked the people to stay at home as the city of nearly 14 million has seen a surge in the number of cases in recent days, reported news agency Reuters. The number of cases with untraceable transmission routes had increased in recent days, Governor Yuriko Koike said in a livecast YouTube video, adding it was worrying that several people were infected at hospitals. The majority of confirmed COVID-19 cases over the weekend in Tokyo were of people under the age of 50, a member of Japan's health ministry taskforce for the virus said in the same livecast, adding that many of them were in their 20s and 30s. Tokyo's metropolitan government has repeatedly called on residents in the densely populated city to avoid all unnecessary outings. Koike said in an earlier TV appearance that "lives were at stake". Global cases of the new coronavirus have shot past 1 million with more than 64,000 deaths. Japan, with some 3,000 cases and 73 deaths as of Friday, has so far been spared the kind of explosive surge seen in Europe, the United States and elsewhere. (With inputs from Reuters)

Tokyo reports 143 new COVID-19 cases, highest jump in one day

In Tokyo, the metropolitan government reported 89 new cases, bringing the total number of cases over the past week to 474. The figure represents about 60 percent of the 773 confirmed cases in the capital.

Asia-Pacific Countries Grapple With Coronavirus Pandemic

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Saturday requested people to refrain from non-essential meetings and said coronavirus infections could escalate if people let down their guard and don't take proper containment measures.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Saturday requested people to refrain from non-essential meetings and said coronavirus infections could escalate if people let down their guard and don't take proper containment measures. Abe made the comments at a news conference in Tokyo. Abe also promised a massive unprecedented package of steps to cushion the economy from the coronavirus pandemic, saying the country was close to a national emergency as infections surged in Tokyo. Abe told a country that is seeing a rising number of deaths and cases from the outbreak that the "huge, powerful" measures would be greater than the response to the global financial crisis of 2008. "Japan is holding up barely, but it would not be strange if there were a rapid spread (of the virus) at any time," Abe told a nationally televised news conference, though he held back from declaring a state of emergency. He also announced plans to approve the drug Avigan that has proved helpful in treatment. The government will craft the stimulus within about 10 days, Abe said, as officials confirmed a further 60 cases in Tokyo. (With inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus outbreak could worsen if people don't take proper measures: Japan PM Abe 

27 March in history: Twenty-two years ago today, Viagra was approved for commercial use

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan agreeing to postpone the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to not later than the summer of 2021 has&nbsp;come as a historic decision in the world of sports. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken almost the entire world under its dreaded wings and as a result, the entire sporting calendar has been left shattered. The decision to postpone the Games by a year is likely to torment Japan’s economy, which has already taken a hit due to the novel coronavirus outbreak. But how much financial hit Japan will take after postponing the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to 2021?

<h2 class="MsoNormal">How much has Japan invested?</h2>

At the end of 2019, the organisers of the Games had estimated a total cost to be around 1.35 trillion Japanese Yen ($12.6 billion). The investment is divided between Tokyo, Japanese organizing committee and the central government, who have contributed 597 billion, 603 billion and 150 billion Yen respectively.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-japan-agree-to-postpone-2020-tokyo-olympics-by-one-year-to-be-held-no-later-than-summer-of-2021-288259">IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021'</a>

However, the actual cost for Japan has, as per an audit report, stands approximately around 1.06 trillion Yen, which is 10 times the budget. This spending by the national government comes from the bid in 2013 until 2018, which makes the numbers even more staggering.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Japanese businesses have also splashed in money for sponsorship while pouring a record 348 billion Yen ($3.3 billion). Notably, the figure doesn’t include partnership deals signed between major companies and IOC for rights to sponsor several Games. Among those are giants including Japan's Toyota, Bridgestone and Panasonic.

<h2 class="MsoNormal">How the postponement will affect Japan's economy?</h2>

As per Capital Economics, Japan’s economy is likely to take a major hit because most of the spending has already happened for the Tokyo Olympics 2020, meaning the effects of outlays, constructions of new sporting venues, have already been factored into GDP in recent years.

However, the postponement of Games could majorly drag down tourism industry, which is already under pressure after a widely-debated sales tax hike in 2019 and with the COVID-19 pandemic, enforcing a lockdown in many countries, it remains to be seen how many people would want to visit Tokyo for the Olympics.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-concrete-problem-olympic-delay-spells-limbo-on-athletes-village-288379">A concrete problem: Olympic delay spells limbo on Athletes' Village</a>

The COVID-19 pandemic has already taken Japan towards recession as the GDP has contracted 1.8 per cent in the October-December quarter. 
Research firm Fitch on Monday revised its 2020 growth forecast for Japan to -1.1 per cent from -0.2 per cent as it reflected risks to consumption, tourism and exports industry being hit by the novel coronavirus pandemic. It further stated the postponement of the Games might worsen the situation even more and “could impact GDP between 0.5 and 0.8 percentage point to our forecast."

<img alt="Tokyo 2020 Olympics postponed to 2021" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fba8486-75e0-4f2e-af4e-72c1280336ce" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1PS34A.jpg" />

<h2 class="MsoNormal">What about ticket-holders?</h2>

The effect, the postponement of the Games, on spending from foreign spectators which was estimated to be 240 billion yen ($2.28 billion) is unclear as of now. Furthermore, a staggering 4.5 million tickets have already been sold in Japan with an estimated 7.8 million to be sold overall. But how the postponement will affect the already sold tickets is not clear yet.

Economists at SMBC Nikko Securities on Tuesday said that delaying the Games would reduce the impact Japan’s GDP this year by some $6 billion. However, they added, the amount would be recovered when the Games are eventually held, effectively cancelling out the losses.&nbsp; 
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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan agreeing to postpone the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to not later than the summer of 2021 has come as a historic decision in the world of sports.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan agreeing to postpone the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to not later than the summer of 2021 has come as a historic decision in the world of sports. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken almost the entire world under its dreaded wings and as a result, the entire sporting calendar has been left shattered. The decision to postpone the Games by a year is likely to torment Japan’s economy, which has already taken a hit due to the novel coronavirus outbreak. But how much financial hit Japan will take after postponing the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to 2021? How much has Japan invested? At the end of 2019, the organisers of the Games had estimated a total cost to be around 1.35 trillion Japanese Yen ($12.6 billion). The investment is divided between Tokyo, Japanese organizing committee and the central government, who have contributed 597 billion, 603 billion and 150 billion Yen respectively. ALSO READ: IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021' However, the actual cost for Japan has, as per an audit report, stands approximately around 1.06 trillion Yen, which is 10 times the budget. This spending by the national government comes from the bid in 2013 until 2018, which makes the numbers even more staggering. Furthermore, Japanese businesses have also splashed in money for sponsorship while pouring a record 348 billion Yen ($3.3 billion). Notably, the figure doesn’t include partnership deals signed between major companies and IOC for rights to sponsor several Games. Among those are giants including Japan's Toyota, Bridgestone and Panasonic. How the postponement will affect Japan's economy? As per Capital Economics, Japan’s economy is likely to take a major hit because most of the spending has already happened for the Tokyo Olympics 2020, meaning the effects of outlays, constructions of new sporting venues, have already been factored into GDP in recent years. However, the postponement of Games could majorly drag down tourism industry, which is already under pressure after a widely-debated sales tax hike in 2019 and with the COVID-19 pandemic, enforcing a lockdown in many countries, it remains to be seen how many people would want to visit Tokyo for the Olympics. ALSO READ: A concrete problem: Olympic delay spells limbo on Athletes' Village The COVID-19 pandemic has already taken Japan towards recession as the GDP has contracted 1.8 per cent in the October-December quarter. Research firm Fitch on Monday revised its 2020 growth forecast for Japan to -1.1 per cent from -0.2 per cent as it reflected risks to consumption, tourism and exports industry being hit by the novel coronavirus pandemic. It further stated the postponement of the Games might worsen the situation even more and “could impact GDP between 0.5 and 0.8 percentage point to our forecast." What about ticket-holders? The effect, the postponement of the Games, on spending from foreign spectators which was estimated to be 240 billion yen ($2.28 billion) is unclear as of now. Furthermore, a staggering 4.5 million tickets have already been sold in Japan with an estimated 7.8 million to be sold overall. But how the postponement will affect the already sold tickets is not clear yet. Economists at SMBC Nikko Securities on Tuesday said that delaying the Games would reduce the impact Japan’s GDP this year by some $6 billion. However, they added, the amount would be recovered when the Games are eventually held, effectively cancelling out the losses.

COVID-19 hits Olympics: What could 2020 Tokyo Games postponement cost Japan?

Japan's iconic cherry blossom season has bloomed in Tokyo, but this year, streets and parks were empty as people shunned "viewing parties" to stay indoors amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Japanese shun cherry blossom viewing parties due to coronavirus

At least 35 companies and academic institutions are working on a coronavirus vaccine. But, is a cure in sight? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more about the drugs that are being used to treat coronavirus patients.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: Is a Japanese drug the ultimate cure?

Komaki Yamashita and her daughter Konoha are both classical Japanese dance students and as they were forced to stay indoors during this period, they have been taking dance lessons from home using webcams and tablets.

Japanese classical dancer offers live-streaming lessons during coronavirus lockdown

A Japanese anti-viral drug has been found to be effective in treating coronavirus patients in medical trials undertaken by China. The drug, Favipiravir, also known as Avigan, was approved for use in Japan in 2014 and is active against influenza strains, yellow fever, Ebola and foot-and-mouth disease.

"It has a high degree of safety and is clearly effective in treatment," Zhang Xinmin, an official at China’s science and technology ministry, told reporters on Tuesday.

China carried out clinical trials of 320 people in Shenzhen and Wuhan, in which the drug showed encouraging results in treating patients with COVID-19.

Favipiravir also proved to be effective in improving the lung conditions of those who received the treatment.

Other drug treatments have also been tested for COVID-19 treatment, and are in the process of development.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-the-coronavirus-self-check-test-circulating-on-social-media-is-not-helpful-at-all-287173">Also read: Why the coronavirus 'self-check test', circulating on social media, is not helpful at all</a>

No antiviral, however, has yet been approved or created. These drugs include remadesivir -- a compound developed by Gilead Sciences.

Doctors in Japan are using Favipiravir in clinical studies on coronavirus patients with mild to moderate symptoms. A Japanese health ministry source has, however, suggested the drug was not as effective in people with more severe symptoms.

The same limitations were observed when a combination of the HIV antiretrovirals lopinavir and ritonavir was used to treat COVID-19.

Favipiravir would still need government approval for full-scale use on COVID-19 patients. In 2016, the Japanese government supplied favipiravir as an emergency aid to counter the Ebola virus outbreak in Guinea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-lockdown-in-china-has-saved-more-lives-by-controlling-pollution-than-preventing-infection-287195">Also read: Coronavirus lockdown in China has saved more lives by controlling pollution than preventing infection</a>

A Japanese anti-viral drug has been found to be effective in treating coronavirus patients in medical trials undertaken by China. The drug, Favipiravir, also known as Avigan, was approved for use in Japan in 2014 and is active against influenza strains, yellow fever, Ebola and foot-and-mouth disease.

A Japanese anti-viral drug has been found to be effective in treating coronavirus patients in medical trials undertaken by China. The drug, Favipiravir, also known as Avigan, was approved for use in Japan in 2014 and is active against influenza strains, yellow fever, Ebola and foot-and-mouth disease. "It has a high degree of safety and is clearly effective in treatment," Zhang Xinmin, an official at China’s science and technology ministry, told reporters on Tuesday. China carried out clinical trials of 320 people in Shenzhen and Wuhan, in which the drug showed encouraging results in treating patients with COVID-19. Favipiravir also proved to be effective in improving the lung conditions of those who received the treatment. Other drug treatments have also been tested for COVID-19 treatment, and are in the process of development. Also read: Why the coronavirus 'self-check test', circulating on social media, is not helpful at all No antiviral, however, has yet been approved or created. These drugs include remadesivir -- a compound developed by Gilead Sciences. Doctors in Japan are using Favipiravir in clinical studies on coronavirus patients with mild to moderate symptoms. A Japanese health ministry source has, however, suggested the drug was not as effective in people with more severe symptoms. The same limitations were observed when a combination of the HIV antiretrovirals lopinavir and ritonavir was used to treat COVID-19. Favipiravir would still need government approval for full-scale use on COVID-19 patients. In 2016, the Japanese government supplied favipiravir as an emergency aid to counter the Ebola virus outbreak in Guinea. Also read: Coronavirus lockdown in China has saved more lives by controlling pollution than preventing infection

Japanese flu drug found to be effective in coronavirus treatment, says China after clinical trials

Waving their arms and stomping their feet, Japanese seniors in Saitama are exercising indoors and avoiding exposure amid the outbreak with the help of a new Youtube video.

Youtube video helps Japanese seniors get in shape amid outbreak

COVID-19 has claimed over 4,200 lives and infected more than 117,330 people across 107 countries and territories. And global stock markets have been sinking despite central banks putting in effort to ease the effects of the outbreak.

In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, the global markets have been observing a mass sell-off wherein shelves are falling empty in malls, and shopping complexes; and online deliveries are being delayed. There has been a sharp spike in sales of food items, daily necessities and personal hygiene products, precipitating a shortage in the markets.

The massive sell-off has impacted trading in various markets, leading to a loss in shares.

In India, sensex on Monday recorded a loss of over 7 per cent. This happened even after Prime Minister Narendra Modi advised to not panic, and follow precaution.&nbsp;

India, which has reported 79 positive cases of COVID-19, has stepped up surveillance to contain the spread of the disease.

Japan and Singapore are the other two countries that have been facing the worst crisis ever since the outbreak of coronavirus.

In Singapore, photos of queues at various supermarkets, and later empty shelves at supermarkets started circulating online on Monday. This happened after Malaysian government's announcement that there was no need to horde supplies.

To this end, reports say, the Singapore Government worked with supermarket chains to increase the country's stock of food and essential supplies. And it, being a small-sized economy, helped.

The opposite happened in Japan. It's initial response was mild, and later, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe shut down all school and institutes.

Japan even had to introduce penalties for the resale of masks. And the e-commerce website eBay banned new listings for health products.

The markets are looking to governments for more co-ordinated effort and more targetted support.

 
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COVID-19 has claimed over 4,200 lives and infected more than 117,330 people across 107 countries and territories. And global stock markets have been sinking despite central banks putting in effort to ease the effects of the outbreak.

COVID-19 has claimed over 4,200 lives and infected more than 117,330 people across 107 countries and territories. And global stock markets have been sinking despite central banks putting in effort to ease the effects of the outbreak. In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, the global markets have been observing a mass sell-off wherein shelves are falling empty in malls, and shopping complexes; and online deliveries are being delayed. There has been a sharp spike in sales of food items, daily necessities and personal hygiene products, precipitating a shortage in the markets. The massive sell-off has impacted trading in various markets, leading to a loss in shares. In India, sensex on Monday recorded a loss of over 7 per cent. This happened even after Prime Minister Narendra Modi advised to not panic, and follow precaution. India, which has reported 79 positive cases of COVID-19, has stepped up surveillance to contain the spread of the disease. Japan and Singapore are the other two countries that have been facing the worst crisis ever since the outbreak of coronavirus. In Singapore, photos of queues at various supermarkets, and later empty shelves at supermarkets started circulating online on Monday. This happened after Malaysian government's announcement that there was no need to horde supplies. To this end, reports say, the Singapore Government worked with supermarket chains to increase the country's stock of food and essential supplies. And it, being a small-sized economy, helped. The opposite happened in Japan. It's initial response was mild, and later, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe shut down all school and institutes. Japan even had to introduce penalties for the resale of masks. And the e-commerce website eBay banned new listings for health products. The markets are looking to governments for more co-ordinated effort and more targetted support.

Coronavirus outbreak triggers mass sell-off in global markets

Doubts are growing in Japan about the Tokyo Olympics, with growing opposition to holding them as scheduled and some urging officials not to risk lives by pressing ahead during the coronavirus emergency.

Officials like Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach have repeatedly insisted preparations should continue to light the Olympic flame on July 24.

But with events from the Premier League to NBA basketball scrapped, and Japanese sport also at a standstill, even US President Donald Trump has suggested putting the Olympics on hold.

Japan has seen relatively few cases, with 814 testing positive and 24 dead. But some people on the streets of Tokyo voiced concern for the fans that would pour in from abroad.

Koki Miura, a 27-year-old employee at an internet company, told AFP: "To be honest, even if Japan overcomes this crisis, we wouldn't&nbsp;receive visitors from the world. I think we'd better not hold it."

"We cannot sacrifice&nbsp;people's lives for it," added Miura, who said the Games should be postponed -- if not cancelled outright.&nbsp;

Public opinion in Japan appears to be moving against the Games. A poll for public broadcaster NHK taken March 6-9 suggested 45 percent were opposed to going ahead as planned, with 40 percent in favour.

And a new poll of more than 1,000 people released Monday by Japan's Kyodo news agency showed 69.9 percent of respondents believe Tokyo will not be able to hold the Games as scheduled.

Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike has said it is "unthinkable" to cancel the Olympics but the decision rests with the IOC, which is planning emergency talks with international sports federations on Tuesday, according to an IOC source.

Bach has stressed the IOC will follow World Health Organization recommendations regarding a possible postponement. But he has also acknowledged that the cancellation of qualifying events was posing "serious problems".

At the beginning of March, Bach said the IOC would show "flexibility" regarding qualifications for the Tokyo, and encouraged "all athletes to continue to prepare" for the Games.

<h2>- 'Look at the panic' -</h2>

Masao Sugawara, a 90-year-old pensioner, told AFP: "Personally, I think it would be safer to postpone the Olympics for a year, just as President Trump said. Look at the panic."&nbsp;

"Of course it would be disappointing, though," he admitted.

Manfred Otto, 45, a half-Japanese, half-German lawyer, said he was "worried" about the Games and stressed: "We really need to be careful."

"If the outbreak does not get controlled by June or July, I think we should postpone it," said Otto.

The betting odds are increasingly shifting towards the opening ceremony not taking place on July 24. Bookmaker Paddy Power is offering 4-1 against the Games opening on time.

This comes as the virus -- which has killed 6,400 people worldwide -- shreds the international sporting calendar, with almost no elite sporting action taking place last weekend.

Preparations for the Games have already been affected, with qualifiers cancelled, test events scaled back and the Olympic torch arrival and relay altered.

Plans have been scrapped to involve hundreds of children in the torch's arrival ceremony, while an exhibition and three events to display the flame have also been axed.

Cancelling the Olympics would be a heartbreaking decision for Tokyo residents who rushed to buy tickets, and authorities whose preparations have won widespread praise -- with the majority of venues ready well ahead of schedule.

Hisaya Suzuki, 47, said he had tickets to see baseball, Japan's most popular sport.

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so I really wanted to take my son," he said, but added: "If there will be negative consequences, it may be wiser to pause it (the Games)."

Sugawara said the magnitude of the coronavirus trumped sporting considerations.

"I am 90 years old. Except for wartime, I have never felt so worried."

Doubts are growing in Japan about the Tokyo Olympics, with growing opposition to holding them as scheduled and some urging officials not to risk lives by pressing ahead during the coronavirus emergency.

Doubts are growing in Japan about the Tokyo Olympics, with growing opposition to holding them as scheduled and some urging officials not to risk lives by pressing ahead during the coronavirus emergency. Officials like Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach have repeatedly insisted preparations should continue to light the Olympic flame on July 24. But with events from the Premier League to NBA basketball scrapped, and Japanese sport also at a standstill, even US President Donald Trump has suggested putting the Olympics on hold. Japan has seen relatively few cases, with 814 testing positive and 24 dead. But some people on the streets of Tokyo voiced concern for the fans that would pour in from abroad. Koki Miura, a 27-year-old employee at an internet company, told AFP: "To be honest, even if Japan overcomes this crisis, we wouldn't receive visitors from the world. I think we'd better not hold it." "We cannot sacrifice people's lives for it," added Miura, who said the Games should be postponed -- if not cancelled outright. Public opinion in Japan appears to be moving against the Games. A poll for public broadcaster NHK taken March 6-9 suggested 45 percent were opposed to going ahead as planned, with 40 percent in favour. And a new poll of more than 1,000 people released Monday by Japan's Kyodo news agency showed 69.9 percent of respondents believe Tokyo will not be able to hold the Games as scheduled. Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike has said it is "unthinkable" to cancel the Olympics but the decision rests with the IOC, which is planning emergency talks with international sports federations on Tuesday, according to an IOC source. Bach has stressed the IOC will follow World Health Organization recommendations regarding a possible postponement. But he has also acknowledged that the cancellation of qualifying events was posing "serious problems". At the beginning of March, Bach said the IOC would show "flexibility" regarding qualifications for the Tokyo, and encouraged "all athletes to continue to prepare" for the Games. - 'Look at the panic' - Masao Sugawara, a 90-year-old pensioner, told AFP: "Personally, I think it would be safer to postpone the Olympics for a year, just as President Trump said. Look at the panic." "Of course it would be disappointing, though," he admitted. Manfred Otto, 45, a half-Japanese, half-German lawyer, said he was "worried" about the Games and stressed: "We really need to be careful." "If the outbreak does not get controlled by June or July, I think we should postpone it," said Otto. The betting odds are increasingly shifting towards the opening ceremony not taking place on July 24. Bookmaker Paddy Power is offering 4-1 against the Games opening on time. This comes as the virus -- which has killed 6,400 people worldwide -- shreds the international sporting calendar, with almost no elite sporting action taking place last weekend. Preparations for the Games have already been affected, with qualifiers cancelled, test events scaled back and the Olympic torch arrival and relay altered. Plans have been scrapped to involve hundreds of children in the torch's arrival ceremony, while an exhibition and three events to display the flame have also been axed. Cancelling the Olympics would be a heartbreaking decision for Tokyo residents who rushed to buy tickets, and authorities whose preparations have won widespread praise -- with the majority of venues ready well ahead of schedule. Hisaya Suzuki, 47, said he had tickets to see baseball, Japan's most popular sport. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so I really wanted to take my son," he said, but added: "If there will be negative consequences, it may be wiser to pause it (the Games)." Sugawara said the magnitude of the coronavirus trumped sporting considerations. "I am 90 years old. Except for wartime, I have never felt so worried."

'Don't sacrifice lives': doubts grow in Japan over Tokyo Olympics

A Japanese court on Monday sentenced a man to death for the 2016 murder of 19 disabled people at a care home, one of the country's worst mass killings.

Satoshi Uematsu, a former employee of the facility, never disputed his involvement in the grisly stabbing rampage, but his lawyers entered a plea of not guilty, arguing the 30-year-old was suffering a "mental disorder" linked to his use of marijuana.

Chief judge Kiyoshi Aonuma dismissed that argument and ruled Uematsu deserved no leniency over the horrifying attack, which shocked the country.

"The lives of 19 people were taken away. This is profoundly grave," he told the court.&nbsp;

Uematsu planned the murders and had "an extreme intention to kill", the judge said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/19-dead-25-wounded-in-knife-attack-on-disabled-care-centre-in-tokyo-3240">19 dead, 25 wounded in knife attack on disabled care centre in Tokyo</a>

Prosecutors sought the death penalty, which in Japan is implemented by hanging, arguing Uematsu was capable of taking responsibility for what they said was an "inhumane" attack at the Tsukui Yamayuri-en centre in Sagamihara town, just outside Tokyo.

Uematsu's behaviour in court, including apparently trying to put something in his mouth, disrupted proceedings at the first hearing in January, with the judge calling a recess and then resuming without him.

But he was impassive on Monday as the verdict was announced, looking straight ahead at the judge during the sentencing.

He wore a black suit with his hair in a long ponytail down to his waist, and was flanked by six uniformed court officers wearing surgical masks.

'I hate you so much'

Uematsu, who faced six charges including murder, reportedly said before the trial that he would not appeal any verdict, though he argued he did not deserve the death penalty.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/knife-attackers-house-raided-day-after-japans-worst-mass-killing-in-decades-3346">Knife attacker?s house raided day after Japan's worst mass killing in decades?</a>

He has reportedly said he wanted to eradicate all disabled people in the horrifying attack that also left 26 people wounded.

He turned himself in to police after the assault, carrying bloodied knives, and it later emerged he had left his job at the home just months earlier and been forcibly hospitalised after telling colleagues he intended to kill disabled people at the centre.

But he was discharged after just 12 days when a doctor decided he was not a threat. He had also written a letter outlining plans to attack the home, claiming "disabled people only create unhappiness".

Among the few victims to be identified publicly was a 19-year-old woman, Miho, whose mother had said at the court that Uematsu "didn't need a future".

"I hate you so much. I want to rip you apart. Even the most extreme penalty is light for you. I will never forgive you," her mother said before the verdict, according to public broadcaster NHK.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-killing-spree-lasted-2-months-23282">Japan killing spree 'lasted 2 months'</a>

"Please bring back my most precious daughter... You're still alive. It's not fair. It's wrong."

"I demand capital punishment," she added.

No remorse

The trial has been closely watched, and a court spokesman said 1,603 people lined up for 10 seats available for the verdict.

The number of spots was reduced because of rules requiring spectators sit apart to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Uematsu has shown no remorse for the attack, telling Japan's Mainichi Shimbun daily that people with mental disabilities "have no heart", and for them "there's no point in living".

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-death-penalty-demanded-for-man-accused-of-killing-19-disabled-people-281233">Japan: Death penalty demanded for man accused of killing 19 disabled people</a>

"I had to do it for the sake of society," he said.

Uematsu's beliefs shocked Japan, with experts and activists raising questions about whether others might hold similar views.

Japan has been making efforts to increase accessibility particularly in Tokyo ahead of this year's Paralympic Games and activists hailed last year's election of two disabled lawmakers.

But some critics feel the country still falls short of fully integrating people with disabilities.

A Japanese court on Monday sentenced a man to death for the 2016 murder of 19 disabled people at a care home, one of the country's worst mass killings. Satoshi Uematsu, a former employee of the facility, never disputed his involvement in the grisly stabbing rampage, but his lawyers entered a plea of not guilty, arguing the 30-year-old was suffering a "mental disorder" linked to his use of marijuana.

A Japanese court on Monday sentenced a man to death for the 2016 murder of 19 disabled people at a care home, one of the country's worst mass killings. Satoshi Uematsu, a former employee of the facility, never disputed his involvement in the grisly stabbing rampage, but his lawyers entered a plea of not guilty, arguing the 30-year-old was suffering a "mental disorder" linked to his use of marijuana. Chief judge Kiyoshi Aonuma dismissed that argument and ruled Uematsu deserved no leniency over the horrifying attack, which shocked the country. "The lives of 19 people were taken away. This is profoundly grave," he told the court. Uematsu planned the murders and had "an extreme intention to kill", the judge said. Also read: 19 dead, 25 wounded in knife attack on disabled care centre in Tokyo Prosecutors sought the death penalty, which in Japan is implemented by hanging, arguing Uematsu was capable of taking responsibility for what they said was an "inhumane" attack at the Tsukui Yamayuri-en centre in Sagamihara town, just outside Tokyo. Uematsu's behaviour in court, including apparently trying to put something in his mouth, disrupted proceedings at the first hearing in January, with the judge calling a recess and then resuming without him. But he was impassive on Monday as the verdict was announced, looking straight ahead at the judge during the sentencing. He wore a black suit with his hair in a long ponytail down to his waist, and was flanked by six uniformed court officers wearing surgical masks. 'I hate you so much' Uematsu, who faced six charges including murder, reportedly said before the trial that he would not appeal any verdict, though he argued he did not deserve the death penalty. Also see: Knife attacker?s house raided day after Japan's worst mass killing in decades? He has reportedly said he wanted to eradicate all disabled people in the horrifying attack that also left 26 people wounded. He turned himself in to police after the assault, carrying bloodied knives, and it later emerged he had left his job at the home just months earlier and been forcibly hospitalised after telling colleagues he intended to kill disabled people at the centre. But he was discharged after just 12 days when a doctor decided he was not a threat. He had also written a letter outlining plans to attack the home, claiming "disabled people only create unhappiness". Among the few victims to be identified publicly was a 19-year-old woman, Miho, whose mother had said at the court that Uematsu "didn't need a future". "I hate you so much. I want to rip you apart. Even the most extreme penalty is light for you. I will never forgive you," her mother said before the verdict, according to public broadcaster NHK. Also read: Japan killing spree 'lasted 2 months' "Please bring back my most precious daughter... You're still alive. It's not fair. It's wrong." "I demand capital punishment," she added. No remorse The trial has been closely watched, and a court spokesman said 1,603 people lined up for 10 seats available for the verdict. The number of spots was reduced because of rules requiring spectators sit apart to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Uematsu has shown no remorse for the attack, telling Japan's Mainichi Shimbun daily that people with mental disabilities "have no heart", and for them "there's no point in living". Also see: Japan: Death penalty demanded for man accused of killing 19 disabled people "I had to do it for the sake of society," he said. Uematsu's beliefs shocked Japan, with experts and activists raising questions about whether others might hold similar views. Japan has been making efforts to increase accessibility particularly in Tokyo ahead of this year's Paralympic Games and activists hailed last year's election of two disabled lawmakers. But some critics feel the country still falls short of fully integrating people with disabilities.

Man sentenced to death for murder of 19 people at a caring home for disabled

Japan continues to prepare to host the Olympic Games in Tokyo this summer, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Saturday, despite widening concern about the viability of the Games given the global coronavirus outbreak.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-praises-tokyo-olympic-preparations-after-suggesting-delay-286110">Donald Trump praises Tokyo Olympic preparations after suggesting delay</a>

Abe also told a news conference that he had not discussed a possible delay or cancellation of the Games, which are due to start in July, in a recent telephone call with U.S. President Donald Trump.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/scenarios-of-olympics-under-the-shadow-of-coronavirus-285546">Scenarios of Olympics under the shadow of coronavirus</a>

&nbsp;

Japan continues to prepare to host the Olympic Games in Tokyo this summer, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Saturday, despite widening concern about the viability of the Games given the global coronavirus outbreak.

Japan continues to prepare to host the Olympic Games in Tokyo this summer, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Saturday, despite widening concern about the viability of the Games given the global coronavirus outbreak. Also read: Donald Trump praises Tokyo Olympic preparations after suggesting delay Abe also told a news conference that he had not discussed a possible delay or cancellation of the Games, which are due to start in July, in a recent telephone call with U.S. President Donald Trump. Also see: Scenarios of Olympics under the shadow of coronavirus

Japan continues to prepare for Olympics, PM Abe says

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