Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in Japan to attend the G20 summit, addressed the Indian community inKobe today amid "Modi Modi" chants.

India Watch: PM Modi meets Indian community in Kobe

India's PM Narendra Modi will hold talks with his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. WION correspondent Siddhant Sibal talks about what's on the agenda.

Here is what could be on the agenda during PM Modi's meeting with Shinzo Abe

WION correspondent Siddhant Sibal talks about what to expect from the upcoming meeting between PM Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe.

G20 Summit: WION's ground report from Osaka

Trade talks between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping are expected to dominate the upcoming G20 summit in Osaka, where the two leaders are expected to meet on the final day of the event.

Trump-Xi trade talks to dominate G20 Summit

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi ended his address to the Indian diaspora at Hyogo Prefecture Guest House in Kobe, Japan, the attendees broke into the chants of "Jai Shri Ram". PM Modi is in Kobe to attend the two-day G20 summit.

PM Modi addresses Indian community in Japan

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In this segment of WION World Order, the concern is G20 summit and its outcomes. When asked to the Ambassador of Argentina to India Daniel Chuburu about the G20 summit and the possible outcomes.

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A dialogue with G20 Ambassadors in the WION newsroom. Can leaders overcome bilateral differences at the G20 Summit? Introducing WIONWorldOrder, our new platform for a dialogue on foreign policy & politics - a meeting of the minds, global conversation, aligning perspectives and reinvigorating economies.

Watch WION World Order: Centre Stage Osaka - Spotlight G20

PM Modi today addressed the Indian diaspora in Kobe, Japan ahead of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-pm-modi-to-meet-trump-and-attend-two-trilateral-meetings-on-friday-230703">the G20 summit in Osaka</a>.

The Indian prime minister expressed his happiness over coming to Japan after seven months&nbsp;as he told the crowd that PM Shinzo Abe is a "good friend". "I am humbled by your support," the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-to-discuss-progress-in-tackling-terrorism-climate-change-pm-modi-230700">Indian prime minister said</a>.

"I'm fortunate to be here once again after seven&nbsp;months. It's a coincidence that last time I was here, election results were held&nbsp;here and you had shown trust in my dear friend Shinzo Abe. Today when I'm here and the largest democracy has shown even greater trust in this 'Pradhan Sevak'."

"I stand before you as PM with a greater mandate, India has reposed its faith in me," he said.

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"130 core people have formed a "mazboot sarkar"(strong government)," the prime minister asserted.

"It is a victory of truth and democracy," PM Modi said, adding, "dedication to democratic values led to victory."

"The nation gave pro-incumbency mandate after 1971," he told the Indian diaspora.&nbsp;"This is big. After three decades, for the first time, a government with a clear majority formed a government for the second time in a row."

"Sabka saath, sabka vikas is our mantra," the PM said. "Indian democracy inspires others in the world."

"Japan helping India to become $5 trillion economy," the Indian prime minister said. "From making a car, India and Japan are now cooperating to make bullet trains," he said.

PM Modi told the crowd that he would work towards ensuring global trust on India.

"Besides Delhi and Ahmedabad, I had the opportunity to take PM Abe to Varanasi. He visited my parliamentary constituency and participated in the Ganga aarti there. Whenever he got the opportunity, he spoke of this divine experience."

"After I became PM in 2014, I got an opportunity to strengthen India-Japan friendship, together with my friend PM Shinzo Abe. We took our diplomatic relations beyond the purview of capitals and ambassadors and took them directly among the public," he said.

"India, Japan ties will&nbsp;become stronger in 'New India',"&nbsp;PM Modi told the Indian community in Kobe.

"We managed Cyclone Fani with minimum damage and the world praised that government machinery, human resource and space technology can be used to perform well," he said.

"Also, we'll launch Chandrayaan-2 in a few months and by 2022 we're planning to launch India's maiden human spaceflight program-Gaganyaan," he informed the Indian community gathered at the Hyogo Prefecture guest house in Kobe.

PM Modi today addressed the Indian diaspora in Kobe, Japan ahead of the G20 summit in Osaka. The Indian prime minister expressed his happiness over coming to Japan after seven months as he told the crowd that PM Shinzo Abe is a "good friend".

PM Modi today addressed the Indian diaspora in Kobe, Japan ahead of the G20 summit in Osaka. The Indian prime minister expressed his happiness over coming to Japan after seven months as he told the crowd that PM Shinzo Abe is a "good friend". "I am humbled by your support," the Indian prime minister said. "I'm fortunate to be here once again after seven months. It's a coincidence that last time I was here, election results were held here and you had shown trust in my dear friend Shinzo Abe. Today when I'm here and the largest democracy has shown even greater trust in this 'Pradhan Sevak'." "I stand before you as PM with a greater mandate, India has reposed its faith in me," he said. #WATCH live from Japan: Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends a community event at the Hyogo Prefecture Guest House in Kobe. https://t.co/j74qRF8v5F — ANI (@ANI) June 27, 2019 × "130 core people have formed a "mazboot sarkar"(strong government)," the prime minister asserted. "It is a victory of truth and democracy," PM Modi said, adding, "dedication to democratic values led to victory." "The nation gave pro-incumbency mandate after 1971," he told the Indian diaspora. "This is big. After three decades, for the first time, a government with a clear majority formed a government for the second time in a row." "Sabka saath, sabka vikas is our mantra," the PM said. "Indian democracy inspires others in the world." "Japan helping India to become $5 trillion economy," the Indian prime minister said. "From making a car, India and Japan are now cooperating to make bullet trains," he said. PM Modi told the crowd that he would work towards ensuring global trust on India. "Besides Delhi and Ahmedabad, I had the opportunity to take PM Abe to Varanasi. He visited my parliamentary constituency and participated in the Ganga aarti there. Whenever he got the opportunity, he spoke of this divine experience." "After I became PM in 2014, I got an opportunity to strengthen India-Japan friendship, together with my friend PM Shinzo Abe. We took our diplomatic relations beyond the purview of capitals and ambassadors and took them directly among the public," he said. "India, Japan ties will become stronger in 'New India'," PM Modi told the Indian community in Kobe. "We managed Cyclone Fani with minimum damage and the world praised that government machinery, human resource and space technology can be used to perform well," he said. "Also, we'll launch Chandrayaan-2 in a few months and by 2022 we're planning to launch India's maiden human spaceflight program-Gaganyaan," he informed the Indian community gathered at the Hyogo Prefecture guest house in Kobe.

Japan helping India to become $5 trillion economy: PM Modi to Indian diaspora

Asian markets rose Thursday as investors brushed off <a href="https://www.wionews.com/americas/donald-trump-xi-jinping-and-trade-a-high-stakes-game-of-chicken-216697">Donald Trump</a>'s latest dig at China and threatened to impose more tariffs on the country's goods if crunch talks with Xi Jinping fail this weekend.

Before setting off for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-and-trump-impersonators-wow-osaka-crowds-ahead-of-g20-summit-230561">G20 summit in Japan</a>, the president said in an interview that he had a "Plan B" in case the face-to-face talks show no progress, adding he would "take in billions and billions of dollars a month and we'll do less and less business with them".

He said Xi wanted to make a deal as "China's economy is going down the tubes".

His remarks on Fox Business Network came soon after Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the two sides were "90 per cent" of the way to an agreement when talks broke down last month, with the US blaming Beijing for backsliding.

Still, observers said traders were taking the latest developments with a pinch of salt.

"The market is unreactive to these types of headlines given that Trump has continued to adopt a 'good cop/bad cop' strategy with... Mnuchin," said Stephen Innes at Vanguard Markets.

"Instead, market participants are content to wait for Saturday's meeting to unfold where the proof will be in the pudding.

"A harmonious photo op could go a long way to soothing investors' concerns at the market open on Monday."

Oil steps back after the rally&nbsp;

However, while there is optimism for an eventual agreement, analysts say they are not expecting anything major to come out of the Osaka meeting.

OANDA senior market analyst Alfonso Esparza said: "The G20 is looking to be a disappointment to investors looking for a blockbuster trade deal to be announced and is now expected to yield a new round of talks between the US and China to be held later this year."

And Eli Lee, head of the investment strategy at Bank of Singapore, added: "Our baseline scenario is that both sides will commit to re-engaging in trade negotiations while Trump puts the final round of tariffs on hold for a few months."

Hong Kong added 1.4 per cent, Shanghai jumped 0.7 per cent and Tokyo ended up 1.2 per cent.

Sydney was 0.4 per cent higher, Singapore rose 0.7 per cent, Seoul put on 0.6 per cent and Taipei jumped 1.1 per cent. Wellington, Mumbai, Manila and Jakarta also rose.

In early trade London gained 0.3 per cent, Paris rose 0.2 per cent and Frankfurt gained 0.7 per cent.

Regional energy firms enjoyed healthy interest after a rally in oil prices Wednesday fuelled by data showing US inventories had seen their biggest weekly drop since September 2016 owing to a dip in US production and improving exports.&nbsp;

Brent rallied more than two per cent and WTI shot up almost three per cent on the news, though both edged down Thursday.

&nbsp;Key figures around 0810 GMT&nbsp;

Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 1.2 percent at 21,338.17 (close)

Hong Kong - Hang Seng: UP 1.4 per cent at 28,621.42 (close)

Shanghai - Composite: UP 0.7 percent at 2,996.79 (close)

London - FTSE 100: UP 0.3 percent at 7,437.60

Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.1360 from $1.1366 at 2050 GMT

Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.2680 from $1.2685

Dollar/yen: UP at 108.04 yen from 107.78

Bitcoin: DOWN at $12,355 from $13,661

West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 21 cents at $59.17 per barrel

Brent North Sea crude: DOWN 37 cents at $66.12 per barrel

New York - Dow: FLAT at 26,536.82 (close)

Asian markets rose Thursday as investors brushed off Donald Trump's latest dig at China and threatened to impose more tariffs on the country's goods if crunch talks with Xi Jinping fail this weekend.

Asian markets rose Thursday as investors brushed off Donald Trump's latest dig at China and threatened to impose more tariffs on the country's goods if crunch talks with Xi Jinping fail this weekend. Before setting off for the G20 summit in Japan, the president said in an interview that he had a "Plan B" in case the face-to-face talks show no progress, adding he would "take in billions and billions of dollars a month and we'll do less and less business with them". He said Xi wanted to make a deal as "China's economy is going down the tubes". His remarks on Fox Business Network came soon after Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the two sides were "90 per cent" of the way to an agreement when talks broke down last month, with the US blaming Beijing for backsliding. Still, observers said traders were taking the latest developments with a pinch of salt. "The market is unreactive to these types of headlines given that Trump has continued to adopt a 'good cop/bad cop' strategy with... Mnuchin," said Stephen Innes at Vanguard Markets. "Instead, market participants are content to wait for Saturday's meeting to unfold where the proof will be in the pudding. "A harmonious photo op could go a long way to soothing investors' concerns at the market open on Monday." Oil steps back after the rally However, while there is optimism for an eventual agreement, analysts say they are not expecting anything major to come out of the Osaka meeting. OANDA senior market analyst Alfonso Esparza said: "The G20 is looking to be a disappointment to investors looking for a blockbuster trade deal to be announced and is now expected to yield a new round of talks between the US and China to be held later this year." And Eli Lee, head of the investment strategy at Bank of Singapore, added: "Our baseline scenario is that both sides will commit to re-engaging in trade negotiations while Trump puts the final round of tariffs on hold for a few months." Hong Kong added 1.4 per cent, Shanghai jumped 0.7 per cent and Tokyo ended up 1.2 per cent. Sydney was 0.4 per cent higher, Singapore rose 0.7 per cent, Seoul put on 0.6 per cent and Taipei jumped 1.1 per cent. Wellington, Mumbai, Manila and Jakarta also rose. In early trade London gained 0.3 per cent, Paris rose 0.2 per cent and Frankfurt gained 0.7 per cent. Regional energy firms enjoyed healthy interest after a rally in oil prices Wednesday fuelled by data showing US inventories had seen their biggest weekly drop since September 2016 owing to a dip in US production and improving exports. Brent rallied more than two per cent and WTI shot up almost three per cent on the news, though both edged down Thursday. Key figures around 0810 GMT Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 1.2 percent at 21,338.17 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng: UP 1.4 per cent at 28,621.42 (close) Shanghai - Composite: UP 0.7 percent at 2,996.79 (close) London - FTSE 100: UP 0.3 percent at 7,437.60 Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.1360 from $1.1366 at 2050 GMT Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.2680 from $1.2685 Dollar/yen: UP at 108.04 yen from 107.78 Bitcoin: DOWN at $12,355 from $13,661 West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 21 cents at $59.17 per barrel Brent North Sea crude: DOWN 37 cents at $66.12 per barrel New York - Dow: FLAT at 26,536.82 (close)

Asian markets rally as crucial Donald Trump-Xi Jin Ping meeting approaches

US President Donald Trump today said India's imposition of retaliatory tariffs was "unacceptable" and must be withdrawn. In a tweet this morning, he said he was looking forward to discussing the matter with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders have a bilateral summit scheduled tomorrow on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Japan's Osaka.

'Tariffs must be withdrawn': Trump's message to PM Modi before G20 meeting

WION correpsondent Siddhant Sibal reports on the key takeaways from the bilateral meeting between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Japan PM Shinzo Abe on the sidelines of the G20 Summit.

Here are the key takeaways from PM Modi-Shinzo Abe meeting in Osaka

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe and discussed several matters of mutual interest. This is the first meeting between the two leaders since the beginning of Japan’s Reiwa era.

PM Modi, Japan PM discuss global trade and climate change ahead of G20 Summit

PM Modi will be in Japan later this week for 2 days - June 28 and 29 - to participate at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-should-find-solutions-to-global-challenges-german-ambassador-230040">14th G20 Summit in Osaka</a>. This will be the 6th G20 he will be participating in since 2014 and the first one of his second term. PM Modi has earlier participated at the summit held in Brisbane (2014), Antalya (2015), Hangzhou (2016), Hamburg (2017) and Buenos Aires (2018).

PM will be taking part in nearly 10 bilaterals and pull-asides during the summit.

He will be meeting Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump. This will be PM's first meet with Shinzo Abe and Donald Trump in his second term. He met Chinese and Russian leaders on the sidelines of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-refuses-to-endorse-chinas-bri-at-sco-says-connectivity-projects-must-respect-territorial-integrity-227208">the Shanghai Cooperation Organization</a> (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan just 2 weeks ago.

During last year's summit in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires, PM Modi met these leaders under the JAI- Japan, America, India grouping; RIC-Russia, India and China tri-laterals and during the BRICS Summit. Remember, the informal meeting between Modi and Xi during the informal BRICS Summit at the 2017 Hamburg G20 acted as a major icebreaker between the two countries in the backdrop of the Doklam crisis that year.

New Delhi is expected to strongly raise the issue of economic offenders and black money this year at the summit.&nbsp;

"We are keen that the economic offenders and those who are the perpetrators of economic crime, holders of black money should be brought to book. Those are running away from India should be brought back and no country should provide them shelter," India's sherpa or the chief negotiator for G20 Suresh Prabhu told WION.

Other than this, climate change, countering terrorism, disaster resilient infrastructure, reformed multilateralism, WTO reforms will be other areas of focus for India. The summit is happening in the backdrop of trade wars between the world's biggest economies - US and China - and Washington's diminishing commitment to global trade body the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

"India is of the strong view that global trade should be free from any restrictions. Multilateralism should prevail, it should happen under WTO. Reforming WTO is necessary but it should happen in a way that all the countries in the world should have the right to decide. WTO should be a forum for growth, equity and inclusiveness," Prabhu explained.

But the annual gathering of the world's power club will have plenty to talk about including the much talked about meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping to resolve issues on trade. The US-Iran tiff is also expected to dominate the discourse.

The theme of this year's summit under the Japanese presidency is "Human-centred future society” and the focus will be on a range of issues from digital economy and artificial intelligence to inclusive and sustainable world and pressing issues like energy and environment, global health, climate change and marine plastic waste.&nbsp;

The G20 emerged in the backdrop of the Asian financial crisis in 1999 when it was a forum of finance ministers and central bank governors of developing and developed countries.&nbsp;

After the 2008 global financial crisis, it took shape into its present form and has summits across the world.&nbsp;

G20 members represent around 85 per cent of global gross domestic product, over 75 per cent of global trade and two-thirds of the world’s population.

PM Modi will be in Japan later this week for 2 days - June 28 and 29 - to participate at the 14th G20 Summit in Osaka. This will be the 6th G20 he will be participating in since 2014 and the first one of his second term.

PM Modi will be in Japan later this week for 2 days - June 28 and 29 - to participate at the 14th G20 Summit in Osaka. This will be the 6th G20 he will be participating in since 2014 and the first one of his second term. PM Modi has earlier participated at the summit held in Brisbane (2014), Antalya (2015), Hangzhou (2016), Hamburg (2017) and Buenos Aires (2018). PM will be taking part in nearly 10 bilaterals and pull-asides during the summit. He will be meeting Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump. This will be PM's first meet with Shinzo Abe and Donald Trump in his second term. He met Chinese and Russian leaders on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan just 2 weeks ago. During last year's summit in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires, PM Modi met these leaders under the JAI- Japan, America, India grouping; RIC-Russia, India and China tri-laterals and during the BRICS Summit. Remember, the informal meeting between Modi and Xi during the informal BRICS Summit at the 2017 Hamburg G20 acted as a major icebreaker between the two countries in the backdrop of the Doklam crisis that year. New Delhi is expected to strongly raise the issue of economic offenders and black money this year at the summit. "We are keen that the economic offenders and those who are the perpetrators of economic crime, holders of black money should be brought to book. Those are running away from India should be brought back and no country should provide them shelter," India's sherpa or the chief negotiator for G20 Suresh Prabhu told WION. Other than this, climate change, countering terrorism, disaster resilient infrastructure, reformed multilateralism, WTO reforms will be other areas of focus for India. The summit is happening in the backdrop of trade wars between the world's biggest economies - US and China - and Washington's diminishing commitment to global trade body the World Trade Organisation (WTO). "India is of the strong view that global trade should be free from any restrictions. Multilateralism should prevail, it should happen under WTO. Reforming WTO is necessary but it should happen in a way that all the countries in the world should have the right to decide. WTO should be a forum for growth, equity and inclusiveness," Prabhu explained. But the annual gathering of the world's power club will have plenty to talk about including the much talked about meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping to resolve issues on trade. The US-Iran tiff is also expected to dominate the discourse. The theme of this year's summit under the Japanese presidency is "Human-centred future society” and the focus will be on a range of issues from digital economy and artificial intelligence to inclusive and sustainable world and pressing issues like energy and environment, global health, climate change and marine plastic waste. The G20 emerged in the backdrop of the Asian financial crisis in 1999 when it was a forum of finance ministers and central bank governors of developing and developed countries. After the 2008 global financial crisis, it took shape into its present form and has summits across the world. G20 members represent around 85 per cent of global gross domestic product, over 75 per cent of global trade and two-thirds of the world’s population.

With focus on economic offenders and countering terror, PM Modi to participate in 14th G20 Summit in Japan

Chinese equipment provider Huawei has proposed to sign an agreement, including "no back door", with the Indian government to allay any security concerns it may have regarding its network equipment. The company is facing heat in the Indian market following the ban of Huawei in the US market, which has been followed by Australia and Japan. However, some countries are yet to take a decision.

Huawei ready for 'no back door' pact

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a two-day, 14th G20 Summit in Osaka in Japan from June 28, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday. "For the sixth time, Modi will be participating in the G20 Summit. Apart from participating in the summit, PM will also have bilateral meetings. He will also participate in a few plurilateral meetings," Raveesh Kumar, MEA`s spokesperson said.

India Watch: PM Modi to hold 10 bilaterals at G20

Fernando <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fernando-torres-spains-world-cup-winning-striker-announces-retirement-229179">Torres will hang up his boots</a> for good after taking on Andres Iniesta and David Villa in a J League match in August, the former Spain striker said on Sunday, having decided to retire before his body gives up on him.

The 35-year-old former Atletico Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea and AC Milan forward told a news conference that he would bring down the curtain on his career after his Sagan Tosu hosted the Vissel Kobe side of his fellow World Cup winners on August&nbsp;23.

"The reason is just personal," he said. "I feel that physically and mentally I'm coming to a stage, where the time when I will not able to perform at the level I want is approaching, and I don’t want to be there when it arrives.

"I don’t want to look back in a few years and see myself playing in a level I don’t want to, so it was an easy (decision)."

Torres, who scored the winning goal in the 2008 European Championship final before helping Spain win their first World Cup in 2010, said he would be returning home after his retirement but beyond that, his future plans were unclear.

"I think I need time to be away from daily football, it’s been so many years ... training every day and playing at the highest level every day," he added.

"So I just need time to spend with my family and think about the next step. I don’t know if it will be coaching or managing."

Torres scored more than 100 goals over two spells at Atletico Madrid and said he hoped that he could make his boyhood club part of his future at some stage.

"Atletico Madrid is my life so probably there will be a way for us to link up somehow in the future, but not immediately," he added.

"What I’d like to do with Atletico, if I have a chance to go back, will be something so big that I'll need training for it," he said.

"I'll need to study and understand perfectly how it works, so I will not be back just as a face on show. If I go back it will be a big role, to take the club to the next level."

Torres's time in Japan has not been an unqualified success and Sagan Tosu narrowly avoided relegation in his first season. They are currently bottom of the J.League with four wins from 16 matches.

Citing his pride at having scored the goal that kept Tosu up last season, Torres said he would do everything he could to help their cause before retiring and that he would continue to act as an advisor to the club board afterwards.

"I want to really (have) an intense last two months I'll give everything that is left inside of me to help the team to improve the current situation, which is not the best," he said.

The match against Iniesta and Villa's Vissel will kick off matchday 24 of the 31-round J.League on a Friday night at Tosu's home ground.

"I tried to find an iconic moment to play my final game and I guess that's perfect timing," Torres said.

"To say goodbye to football next to my dear friends is something that I could never imagine, and Japan is going to make it possible."

Fernando Torres will hang up his boots for good after taking on Andres Iniesta and David Villa in a J League match in August, the former Spain striker said on Sunday, having decided to retire before his body gives up on him.

Fernando Torres will hang up his boots for good after taking on Andres Iniesta and David Villa in a J League match in August, the former Spain striker said on Sunday, having decided to retire before his body gives up on him. The 35-year-old former Atletico Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea and AC Milan forward told a news conference that he would bring down the curtain on his career after his Sagan Tosu hosted the Vissel Kobe side of his fellow World Cup winners on August 23. "The reason is just personal," he said. "I feel that physically and mentally I'm coming to a stage, where the time when I will not able to perform at the level I want is approaching, and I don’t want to be there when it arrives. "I don’t want to look back in a few years and see myself playing in a level I don’t want to, so it was an easy (decision)." Torres, who scored the winning goal in the 2008 European Championship final before helping Spain win their first World Cup in 2010, said he would be returning home after his retirement but beyond that, his future plans were unclear. "I think I need time to be away from daily football, it’s been so many years ... training every day and playing at the highest level every day," he added. "So I just need time to spend with my family and think about the next step. I don’t know if it will be coaching or managing." Torres scored more than 100 goals over two spells at Atletico Madrid and said he hoped that he could make his boyhood club part of his future at some stage. "Atletico Madrid is my life so probably there will be a way for us to link up somehow in the future, but not immediately," he added. "What I’d like to do with Atletico, if I have a chance to go back, will be something so big that I'll need training for it," he said. "I'll need to study and understand perfectly how it works, so I will not be back just as a face on show. If I go back it will be a big role, to take the club to the next level." Torres's time in Japan has not been an unqualified success and Sagan Tosu narrowly avoided relegation in his first season. They are currently bottom of the J.League with four wins from 16 matches. Citing his pride at having scored the goal that kept Tosu up last season, Torres said he would do everything he could to help their cause before retiring and that he would continue to act as an advisor to the club board afterwards. "I want to really (have) an intense last two months I'll give everything that is left inside of me to help the team to improve the current situation, which is not the best," he said. The match against Iniesta and Villa's Vissel will kick off matchday 24 of the 31-round J.League on a Friday night at Tosu's home ground. "I tried to find an iconic moment to play my final game and I guess that's perfect timing," Torres said. "To say goodbye to football next to my dear friends is something that I could never imagine, and Japan is going to make it possible."

Fernando Torres to sign off after Japan reunion with Andres Iniesta and David Villa

Alexis Sanchez shrugged off an ankle injury and continued his resurgent form at the Copa America as the Chile striker fired his side to a 2-1 victory over Ecuador on Friday which took the holders into the quarter-finals of the competition.

Chile took the lead in the eighth minute when Jose Fuenzalida volleyed into the net but Ecuador were awarded a penalty when goalkeeper Gabriel Arias clattered Jhegson Mendez, allowing Enner Valencia to level from the spot in the 26th.

Sanchez, who had ended a barren five-month spell by scoring in Monday's 4-0 win against Japan, put Chile ahead early in the second half, expertly guiding a bouncing cross into the net with one touch.

Ecuador, who were hammered 4-0 by <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-luis-suarez-edinson-cavani-score-as-uruguay-crush-10-man-ecuador-227872&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiOz4_Tr_ziAhUILI8KHZqPBesQFjAFegQIChAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1WrwxdskkJ5ve4oWgzrnu-">Uruguay </a>in their opening game, rarely threatened again and saw defender Gabriel Achilier receive a straight red card in stoppage time for a rash tackle on Arturo Vidal, who had to be taken off.

Sanchez later revealed he had been playing with an ankle injury sustained in the first half.

"After a cross, I rolled my ankle but I put a bandage on it, I took a pill for the pain and I came out again," he told reporters.

"I think I have a sprain, I was playing with pain but I hope it's not too serious," he said.

Chile coach Reinaldo Rueda praised Sanchez for playing on, adding that the ankle was not the same one he injured in May.

"He was evaluated by the doctors at halftime who said he could continue, although he put lots of ice on it at halftime. He made a huge effort in the second half," he said.

"We'll evaluate it again but we hope it isn't serious," Rueda said.

Chile, Copa champions in 2015 and 2016, lead Group C on six points. Uruguay are second on four with Japan third on one and Ecuador bottom with no points.

Ecuador still have an outside chance of sneaking into the quarter-finals as one of the two best ranked third-place finishers but they must win their game against <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-koji-miyoshi-shines-japan-plays-2-2-draw-against-uruguay-229170&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiOz4_Tr_ziAhUILI8KHZqPBesQFjAHegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw200dFTbFxA3KruVs3N4eyg">Japan </a>on Monday and hope other results go their way.

Their coach, Hernan Dario Gomez, gave the briefest of post-match news conferences, saying he was not in the mood to take questions and gave a short assessment of the game before leaving.

Alexis Sanchez shrugged off an ankle injury and continued his resurgent form at the Copa America as the Chile striker fired his side to a 2-1 victory over Ecuador on Friday which took the holders into the quarter-finals of the competition.

Alexis Sanchez shrugged off an ankle injury and continued his resurgent form at the Copa America as the Chile striker fired his side to a 2-1 victory over Ecuador on Friday which took the holders into the quarter-finals of the competition. Chile took the lead in the eighth minute when Jose Fuenzalida volleyed into the net but Ecuador were awarded a penalty when goalkeeper Gabriel Arias clattered Jhegson Mendez, allowing Enner Valencia to level from the spot in the 26th. Sanchez, who had ended a barren five-month spell by scoring in Monday's 4-0 win against Japan, put Chile ahead early in the second half, expertly guiding a bouncing cross into the net with one touch. Ecuador, who were hammered 4-0 by Uruguay in their opening game, rarely threatened again and saw defender Gabriel Achilier receive a straight red card in stoppage time for a rash tackle on Arturo Vidal, who had to be taken off. Sanchez later revealed he had been playing with an ankle injury sustained in the first half. "After a cross, I rolled my ankle but I put a bandage on it, I took a pill for the pain and I came out again," he told reporters. "I think I have a sprain, I was playing with pain but I hope it's not too serious," he said. Chile coach Reinaldo Rueda praised Sanchez for playing on, adding that the ankle was not the same one he injured in May. "He was evaluated by the doctors at halftime who said he could continue, although he put lots of ice on it at halftime. He made a huge effort in the second half," he said. "We'll evaluate it again but we hope it isn't serious," Rueda said. Chile, Copa champions in 2015 and 2016, lead Group C on six points. Uruguay are second on four with Japan third on one and Ecuador bottom with no points. Ecuador still have an outside chance of sneaking into the quarter-finals as one of the two best ranked third-place finishers but they must win their game against Japan on Monday and hope other results go their way. Their coach, Hernan Dario Gomez, gave the briefest of post-match news conferences, saying he was not in the mood to take questions and gave a short assessment of the game before leaving.

Copa America: Alexis Sanchez strikes again to take Chile into quarters

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Uruguay's 2-2 draw against Japan in the Copa America on Friday left Luis Suarez with a bittersweet feeling, who insisted that they need to correct their mistakes.

"We have to correct mistakes and praise the positive things. We were the ones who created the most-clear chances. That is why we left with a bittersweet feeling," Goal.com quoted Suarez, as saying.

Japan's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-koji-miyoshi-shines-japan-plays-2-2-draw-against-uruguay-229170&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwith4L1z_riAhUVfSsKHclzDeMQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw06YhH9IL0kZ4xoZpoRzoto">Koji Miyoshi</a> scored the opening goal of the match but just after seven minutes, Suarez scored an equaliser through a penalty.

Miyoshi, in the 59th minute, again netted a goal for his side.

However, Jose Gimenez's goal in the 66th minute brought the score to 2-2 and the match concluded on the same.

Despite admitting that <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-luis-suarez-edinson-cavani-score-as-uruguay-crush-10-man-ecuador-227872&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwith4L1z_riAhUVfSsKHclzDeMQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1wVib59FhEK8YYuE1B8Sn9">Uruguay </a>played a good game, Suarez said that they have to be more careful.

"We played a good game at a general level, but we have the consequence that in this kind of tournament you have two mistakes and they make two goals and you have to be more careful," he said.

Japan was coming to the match after they faced a humiliating 0-4 defeat against Chile in their opening match of the tournament.

Suarez opined that Japan's performance against Chile was not a true reflection as the team has a lot of quality.

"We knew that Japan's performance with Chile was not a true reflection.

They are quick, they have a lot of quality, they put pressure on us and they did not let us play well," Suarez said.

Uruguay will now face Chile on June 25.

Uruguay's 2-2 draw against Japan in the Copa America on Friday left Luis Suarez with a bittersweet feeling, who insisted that they need to correct their mistakes.

Uruguay's 2-2 draw against Japan in the Copa America on Friday left Luis Suarez with a bittersweet feeling, who insisted that they need to correct their mistakes. "We have to correct mistakes and praise the positive things. We were the ones who created the most-clear chances. That is why we left with a bittersweet feeling," Goal.com quoted Suarez, as saying. Japan's Koji Miyoshi scored the opening goal of the match but just after seven minutes, Suarez scored an equaliser through a penalty. Miyoshi, in the 59th minute, again netted a goal for his side. However, Jose Gimenez's goal in the 66th minute brought the score to 2-2 and the match concluded on the same. Despite admitting that Uruguay played a good game, Suarez said that they have to be more careful. "We played a good game at a general level, but we have the consequence that in this kind of tournament you have two mistakes and they make two goals and you have to be more careful," he said. Japan was coming to the match after they faced a humiliating 0-4 defeat against Chile in their opening match of the tournament. Suarez opined that Japan's performance against Chile was not a true reflection as the team has a lot of quality. "We knew that Japan's performance with Chile was not a true reflection. They are quick, they have a lot of quality, they put pressure on us and they did not let us play well," Suarez said. Uruguay will now face Chile on June 25.

Copa America: Uruguay's Luis Suarez wants to correct mistakes after draw against Japan

Japan played a 2-2 draw against Uruguay in their group C clash in the ongoing <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-colombia-defeats-qatar-1-0-moves-to-quarter-final-228873&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEkYClkPriAhUXIIgKHeoSDQ0QFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2-USPP7zYM0xFWi4Z4R2b5">Copa America</a> on Friday.

Japan started the game at a high-tempo as Koji Miyoshi scored the opening goal in the 25th minute of the first half.&nbsp;

He scored another goal in the 59th minute of the game.

After Miyoshi's opener, Luis Suarez scored the equaliser on penalty for Uraguay in the 32nd minute.&nbsp;

The penalty was offered after <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-brazil-have-three-goals-denied-by-var-in-draw-with-venezuela-228581&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEkYClkPriAhUXIIgKHeoSDQ0QFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2KHwUK6D9I7k46RvHXPY9c">Video Assistant Referee (VAR)</a> review as Naomichi Ueda tried to block the ball under minimal contact on Edinson Cavani.

In the second half again, Miyoshi netted the ball to the goal in the 59th minute making their lead to 2-1.&nbsp;

Uruguay played with high morale as they defeated Ecuador 4-0 in their last game.&nbsp;

Jose Gimenez in the 66th minute of the match scored a goal to make it 2-2.

Although Uruguay attempted more chances to convert a goal but ended up with equal goals.&nbsp;

It was an entertaining game from both the teams.

Japan, in their last match, faced the 4-0 defeat at the hands of Chile while Uruguay won the last encounter 4-0 against Ecuador.

Japan will next face Ecuador while Uruguay will play against Chile on June 25.

Japan played a 2-2 draw against Uruguay in their group C clash in the ongoing Copa America on Friday. Japan started the game at a high-tempo as Koji Miyoshi scored the opening goal in the 25th minute of the first half.

Japan played a 2-2 draw against Uruguay in their group C clash in the ongoing Copa America on Friday. Japan started the game at a high-tempo as Koji Miyoshi scored the opening goal in the 25th minute of the first half. He scored another goal in the 59th minute of the game. After Miyoshi's opener, Luis Suarez scored the equaliser on penalty for Uraguay in the 32nd minute. The penalty was offered after Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review as Naomichi Ueda tried to block the ball under minimal contact on Edinson Cavani. In the second half again, Miyoshi netted the ball to the goal in the 59th minute making their lead to 2-1. Uruguay played with high morale as they defeated Ecuador 4-0 in their last game. Jose Gimenez in the 66th minute of the match scored a goal to make it 2-2. Although Uruguay attempted more chances to convert a goal but ended up with equal goals. It was an entertaining game from both the teams. Japan, in their last match, faced the 4-0 defeat at the hands of Chile while Uruguay won the last encounter 4-0 against Ecuador. Japan will next face Ecuador while Uruguay will play against Chile on June 25.

Copa America: Koji Miyoshi shines, Japan plays 2-2 draw against Uruguay

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-shinzo-abe-calls-for-strengthing-ties-with-india-221913">Japan</a> on Thursday flatly rejected as "unacceptable" a South Korean proposal to set up a joint fund to compensate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-shift-blame-over-wartime-labour-ruling-japan-tells-south-korea-189507">wartime forced labourers</a>, a bitter dispute that has bogged down bilateral ties.

The proposed fund would not solve the issue, the top government spokesman told a regular press conference in Tokyo.

"The South Korean proposal is utterly unacceptable," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told reporters.

"We will continue to urge South Korea to agree to arbitration," he added. Relations between the two US allies have been increasingly strained by a series of rulings from South Korean courts ordering Japanese firms that used wartime forced labour to compensate victims.

Japan's government and the firms involved have rejected the rulings, with Tokyo saying the issue was settled when the two countries normalised relations.

Last month, Tokyo proposed the issue be put to arbitration under the terms of an agreement signed by the two countries in 1965 when ties were normalised.

The agreement calls for the two countries to set up an arbitration panel if they cannot resolve a dispute through diplomatic negotiations.

South Korea on Wednesday offered a counterproposal that would see South Korean and Japanese firms, including those involved in the court cases, set up a voluntary fund to compensate the victims.

"If Tokyo accepts our offer, our government is willing to review the Japanese government's request (to discuss the issue)," Seoul said in a statement.

Japan and South Korea are both democracies, market economies and US allies, but their relationship has been strained for decades as a result of Tokyo's brutal 1910-45 colonial rule over the Korean peninsula.

The tense ties between Tokyo and Seoul come amid diplomatic efforts to persuade North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to give up his nuclear weapons, to ease one of the key security risks for the region.

When relations were normalised, Tokyo agreed on a reparations package that included grants and cheap loans intended to cover victims of various wartime policies. Japan argues that the package should have permanently resolved the issue.

Japan on Thursday flatly rejected as "unacceptable" a South Korean proposal to set up a joint fund to compensate wartime forced labourers, a bitter dispute that has bogged down bilateral ties.

Japan on Thursday flatly rejected as "unacceptable" a South Korean proposal to set up a joint fund to compensate wartime forced labourers, a bitter dispute that has bogged down bilateral ties. The proposed fund would not solve the issue, the top government spokesman told a regular press conference in Tokyo. "The South Korean proposal is utterly unacceptable," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told reporters. "We will continue to urge South Korea to agree to arbitration," he added. Relations between the two US allies have been increasingly strained by a series of rulings from South Korean courts ordering Japanese firms that used wartime forced labour to compensate victims. Japan's government and the firms involved have rejected the rulings, with Tokyo saying the issue was settled when the two countries normalised relations. Last month, Tokyo proposed the issue be put to arbitration under the terms of an agreement signed by the two countries in 1965 when ties were normalised. The agreement calls for the two countries to set up an arbitration panel if they cannot resolve a dispute through diplomatic negotiations. South Korea on Wednesday offered a counterproposal that would see South Korean and Japanese firms, including those involved in the court cases, set up a voluntary fund to compensate the victims. "If Tokyo accepts our offer, our government is willing to review the Japanese government's request (to discuss the issue)," Seoul said in a statement. Japan and South Korea are both democracies, market economies and US allies, but their relationship has been strained for decades as a result of Tokyo's brutal 1910-45 colonial rule over the Korean peninsula. The tense ties between Tokyo and Seoul come amid diplomatic efforts to persuade North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to give up his nuclear weapons, to ease one of the key security risks for the region. When relations were normalised, Tokyo agreed on a reparations package that included grants and cheap loans intended to cover victims of various wartime policies. Japan argues that the package should have permanently resolved the issue.

Japan rejects South Korea deal over wartime forced labour

The US Navy on Wednesday said it has collected biometric information including fingerprints from the body of one of two oil tankers that were attacked in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flying-objects-damaged-japanese-tanker-during-attack-in-gulf-of-oman-kokuka-sangyo-co-president-227084">Gulf of Oman last week.</a>

Displaying the fragments of limpet mines that the US Navy said had been used to attack the Japanese-owned '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanker-attacks-in-gulf-of-oman-stoke-security-and-oil-fears-226939">Kokuka Courageous' tanker</a>, near the UAE port of Fujairah today, Commander Sean Kido from the Naval Forces Central Command said that the devices bore a "striking resemblance" to the Iranian ones, The New York Post reported.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/limpet-mine-used-in-oil-tanker-attack-resembled-iranian-mines-us-navy-228762">The limpet mine</a> that was used in the attack is distinguishable and also strikingly bearing a resemblance to Iranian mines that have already been publicly displayed in Iranian military parades," Kido said.

The Commander also showed small fragments alleged to have been removed from the Japanese-owned 'Kokuka Courageous' tanker.

In addition, a magnet purportedly left by a team from Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) was also displayed during the media briefing.

The US military had previously released images it said showed the IRGC removing an unexploded limpet mine from the Kokuka Courageous, which was hit by explosions along with the Norwegian-owned Front Altair ship on June 13.

However, Tehran has denied any involvement in the attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global oil supplies, but the incidents have sparked fears of a broader confrontation in the Gulf region.

The company that owns the Kokuka Courageous has said the vessel was damaged by two "flying objects."

Kido said, "The damage at the blast hole is consistent with a limpet mine attack, it is not consistent with an external flying object striking the ship," adding that nail holes indicated how the mine was attached to the hull.

He also stated that the fingerprints from the hull would help in building a criminal case, apparently in reference to Iran.

The Commander added that Washington is working with regional partners on a "joint and combined investigation," but declined to name the countries involved.

The attack on the oil tankers came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran after President Donald Trump announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier and bombers to the Middle East and sent additional troops to the Arabian Gulf region.

On its part, Iran recently has quadrupled its production of low-enriched uranium and threatened to boost its enrichment closer to weapons-grade levels in an attempt to pressure Europe for new terms to the 2015 nuclear deal.

The US Navy on Wednesday said it has collected biometric information including fingerprints from the body of one of two oil tankers that were attacked in the Gulf of Oman last week.

The US Navy on Wednesday said it has collected biometric information including fingerprints from the body of one of two oil tankers that were attacked in the Gulf of Oman last week. Displaying the fragments of limpet mines that the US Navy said had been used to attack the Japanese-owned 'Kokuka Courageous' tanker, near the UAE port of Fujairah today, Commander Sean Kido from the Naval Forces Central Command said that the devices bore a "striking resemblance" to the Iranian ones, The New York Post reported. "The limpet mine that was used in the attack is distinguishable and also strikingly bearing a resemblance to Iranian mines that have already been publicly displayed in Iranian military parades," Kido said. The Commander also showed small fragments alleged to have been removed from the Japanese-owned 'Kokuka Courageous' tanker. In addition, a magnet purportedly left by a team from Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) was also displayed during the media briefing. The US military had previously released images it said showed the IRGC removing an unexploded limpet mine from the Kokuka Courageous, which was hit by explosions along with the Norwegian-owned Front Altair ship on June 13. However, Tehran has denied any involvement in the attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global oil supplies, but the incidents have sparked fears of a broader confrontation in the Gulf region. The company that owns the Kokuka Courageous has said the vessel was damaged by two "flying objects." Kido said, "The damage at the blast hole is consistent with a limpet mine attack, it is not consistent with an external flying object striking the ship," adding that nail holes indicated how the mine was attached to the hull. He also stated that the fingerprints from the hull would help in building a criminal case, apparently in reference to Iran. The Commander added that Washington is working with regional partners on a "joint and combined investigation," but declined to name the countries involved. The attack on the oil tankers came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran after President Donald Trump announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier and bombers to the Middle East and sent additional troops to the Arabian Gulf region. On its part, Iran recently has quadrupled its production of low-enriched uranium and threatened to boost its enrichment closer to weapons-grade levels in an attempt to pressure Europe for new terms to the 2015 nuclear deal.

United States army recovers finger prints from Japanese oil tanker attacked in Gulf of Oman

Defending champions started their <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentinas-lionel-messi-hopes-to-end-trophy-heartache-at-copa-america-227262&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiux5jQr_LiAhWIs48KHXImBIkQFjAEegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw29YWRhuOSeieSssiRxDAmI">Copa America</a> campaign with a win against Japan 4-0 in their opening match in the group C on Tuesday here at Sao&nbsp;Paulo.

Japan who travelled with the young side in the tournament failed to register a win against much experienced Chile's team.

Chile started attacking Japan's defence after the 30th minute of the game as Alexis Sanchez fired two attempts which went off the target.

For Chile, Erick Pulgar started scoring before the final minutes of the first half.

Pulgar scored in the 41st minute by converting Eduardo Vargas ball to goal through the header, giving Chile a lead of 1-0.

No further goal was scored by the end of the half.

Chile doubled their lead to 2-0 just after the nine minutes of play in the second half. Vargas who struck from the edge of the area got deflected and landed in the goalpost.

Japan's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-sign-japanese-messi-takefusa-kubo-from-fc-tokyo-227165&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjOueHzr_LiAhVJsI8KHew7DoAQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3YlrK-IT0iYyqcHMDYhiEU">Takefusa Kubo</a>, signed by Real Madrid last week, also had an opportunity to score but the ball missed the target and hit on the side-net.

Although Chile's win was confirmed after their 2-0 lead, Sanchez and Vargas had other plans as they doubled it to 4-0.

Vargas scored two goals in the match while Pulgar and Sanchez netted one goal each.

Chile will next play against Ecuador on June 21, while Japan will face Uruguay on June 20.

Defending champions started their Copa America campaign with a win against Japan 4-0 in their opening match in the group C on Tuesday here at Sao Paulo. Japan who travelled with the young side in the tournament failed to register a win against much experienced Chile's team.

Defending champions started their Copa America campaign with a win against Japan 4-0 in their opening match in the group C on Tuesday here at Sao Paulo. Japan who travelled with the young side in the tournament failed to register a win against much experienced Chile's team. Chile started attacking Japan's defence after the 30th minute of the game as Alexis Sanchez fired two attempts which went off the target. For Chile, Erick Pulgar started scoring before the final minutes of the first half. Pulgar scored in the 41st minute by converting Eduardo Vargas ball to goal through the header, giving Chile a lead of 1-0. No further goal was scored by the end of the half. Chile doubled their lead to 2-0 just after the nine minutes of play in the second half. Vargas who struck from the edge of the area got deflected and landed in the goalpost. Japan's Takefusa Kubo, signed by Real Madrid last week, also had an opportunity to score but the ball missed the target and hit on the side-net. Although Chile's win was confirmed after their 2-0 lead, Sanchez and Vargas had other plans as they doubled it to 4-0. Vargas scored two goals in the match while Pulgar and Sanchez netted one goal each. Chile will next play against Ecuador on June 21, while Japan will face Uruguay on June 20.

Copa America: Defending champions Chile begin campaign with 4-0 win against Japan

Japan issued a tsunami warning on&nbsp;Tuesday after a strong 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit the northwest of the country.

A wave of one metre (three feet) is expected to hit the coast of the Sea of Japan, north of Tokyo, the nation's meteorological agency said.

Officials immediately stopped bullet train services in the region as a precautionary measure, according to public broadcaster NHK, which also said around 200 households were without power.

The meteorological agency said some waves were expected to have already reached some coastlines of Yamagata and Niigata, in the northwest of the country.&nbsp;

NHK said no abnormality was monitored at nuclear power plants near the epicentre.

The quake registered six on the Japanese scale, which goes up to seven.

Japan sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire" where many of the world's earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are recorded.

Last June, a deadly tremor rocked the Osaka region, killing five people and injuring over 350.

On March 11, 2011, a devastating 9.0-magnitude quake struck under the Pacific Ocean, and the resulting tsunami caused widespread damage and claimed thousands of lives.

Japan issued a tsunami warning on Tuesday after a strong 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit the northwest of the country. A wave of one metre (three feet) is expected to hit the coast of the Sea of Japan, north of Tokyo, the nation's meteorological agency said.

Japan issued a tsunami warning on Tuesday after a strong 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit the northwest of the country. A wave of one metre (three feet) is expected to hit the coast of the Sea of Japan, north of Tokyo, the nation's meteorological agency said. Officials immediately stopped bullet train services in the region as a precautionary measure, according to public broadcaster NHK, which also said around 200 households were without power. The meteorological agency said some waves were expected to have already reached some coastlines of Yamagata and Niigata, in the northwest of the country. NHK said no abnormality was monitored at nuclear power plants near the epicentre. The quake registered six on the Japanese scale, which goes up to seven. Japan sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire" where many of the world's earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are recorded. Last June, a deadly tremor rocked the Osaka region, killing five people and injuring over 350. On March 11, 2011, a devastating 9.0-magnitude quake struck under the Pacific Ocean, and the resulting tsunami caused widespread damage and claimed thousands of lives.

Japan issues tsunami warning after earthquake in northwest coastal area; bullet trains stopped

Two oil tankers were hit by explosions in the Gulf of Oman, prompting the evacuation and rescue of Japanese crew members. Watch this video to know more.

Gulf tankers attack: U.S. rescues Japanese crew from tanker

U.S blamed Iran for attacks on two oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday that drove up oil prices and raised concerns, Tehran bluntly denied the allegation. Watch this video to know more.

U.S. blames Iran for tanker attacks in Gulf of Oman

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe warned of unintended clashes in the crisis-hit Middle East after meeting the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-expects-positive-change-if-us-ends-economic-war-226665">Iranian president in Tehran</a> on Wednesday, amid a brewing confrontation between Iran and the United States.

As a US ally that also has good<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-ask-japans-abe-to-mediate-over-us-oil-sanctions-officials-226578"> diplomatic relations with Iran</a>, Japan could be in a unique position to mediate between the Islamic Republic and the United States.&nbsp;

"Armed conflict needs to be prevented at all costs. Peace and stability in the Middle East is indispensable not only for this region but for global prosperity. No one is hoping for war," the Japanese leader said.

"We would like to play the maximum role we can for easing tension. That is what brought me to Iran," said Abe, whose two-day visit is the first by a Japanese leader to Iran since its 1979 Islamic Revolution.&nbsp;

While Abe did not mention Japan`s currently suspended purchases of Iranian oil, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Japan wants to keep buying Iranian oil.&nbsp;

"In our meeting, Mr. Abe said that Japan was interested in continuing buying Iran`s oil," Rouhani told a joint news conference with Abe, broadcast live on state TV.&nbsp;

Earlier, two Iranian officials told Reuters that Tehran would ask Tokyo to mediate between it and Washington to ease oil sanctions on Iran. "America should either lift the unjust oil sanctions or extend the waivers or suspend them," one senior official said.

To slash Iran`s oil exports, Washington has revoked waivers since May that had allowed some countries, including Japan, to continue buying Iranian crude and has effectively ordered countries to stop purchasing Iranian oil or face sanctions of their own.

Despite pushing for imports to continue, Japan has stopped importing oil from Iran for now to avoid U.S. sanctions.

On a visit to Japan last month, U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Abe`s help in dealing with Iran, highlighting what he called the "very good relationship" between Tokyo and Tehran.

Strains between Washington and Tehran have sharply increased in recent weeks, a year after the United States abandoned a 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and world powers to curb Tehran’s nuclear programme in exchange for the lifting of sanctions.

"Iran will remain committed to the deal, which is important for the security of the region and the world. Tehran and Tokyo both oppose nuclear weapons," said Rouhani.

Trump cranks up pressure on Iran

Washington, calling the nuclear deal flawed and seeking to push Iran into new negotiations, intensified sanctions from the start of May, ordering all countries and firms to halt imports of Iranian oil or be banished from the global financial system.

It has also dispatched extra armed forces to the region to counter what it describes as Iranian threats.

Iran has warned against any military aggression.

"Iran will never initiate a war but will give a crushing response to any aggression," Rouhani said.

"The source of tensions is America`s staged economic war against Iran. As soon as this war ends, we shall see a very positive development in the region and in the world."

Abe has talked to US regional allies like Israel`s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who have supported Trump`s Iran policy.

Iran said in May that after 60 days it would resume its enrichment of uranium beyond the low fissile purity - suitable for civilian nuclear power generation - allowed under the deal, unless other powers stuck to their commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal.&nbsp;

European parties the deal have promised to help Iran find other ways to trade, although with no success so far.&nbsp;

Japan wants to do as much as possible towards peace and stability in the Middle East," Abe said in Tokyo ahead of his departure, according to Iranian TV.

But just hours before Abe`s visit to Iran, Yemen`s Iran-backed Houthi rebels carried out a missile attack on a civilian airport in southern Saudi Arabia which wounded 26 people.

The Western-backed, Sunni Muslim alliance that has been battling the Houthis in Yemen said the attack was proof of Tehran`s support for what it called cross-border terrorism.

Abe will also meet the Islamic Republic`s top authority, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe warned of unintended clashes in the crisis-hit Middle East after meeting the Iranian president in Tehran on Wednesday, amid a brewing confrontation between Iran and the United States.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe warned of unintended clashes in the crisis-hit Middle East after meeting the Iranian president in Tehran on Wednesday, amid a brewing confrontation between Iran and the United States. As a US ally that also has good diplomatic relations with Iran, Japan could be in a unique position to mediate between the Islamic Republic and the United States. "Armed conflict needs to be prevented at all costs. Peace and stability in the Middle East is indispensable not only for this region but for global prosperity. No one is hoping for war," the Japanese leader said. "We would like to play the maximum role we can for easing tension. That is what brought me to Iran," said Abe, whose two-day visit is the first by a Japanese leader to Iran since its 1979 Islamic Revolution. While Abe did not mention Japan`s currently suspended purchases of Iranian oil, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Japan wants to keep buying Iranian oil. "In our meeting, Mr. Abe said that Japan was interested in continuing buying Iran`s oil," Rouhani told a joint news conference with Abe, broadcast live on state TV. Earlier, two Iranian officials told Reuters that Tehran would ask Tokyo to mediate between it and Washington to ease oil sanctions on Iran. "America should either lift the unjust oil sanctions or extend the waivers or suspend them," one senior official said. To slash Iran`s oil exports, Washington has revoked waivers since May that had allowed some countries, including Japan, to continue buying Iranian crude and has effectively ordered countries to stop purchasing Iranian oil or face sanctions of their own. Despite pushing for imports to continue, Japan has stopped importing oil from Iran for now to avoid U.S. sanctions. On a visit to Japan last month, U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Abe`s help in dealing with Iran, highlighting what he called the "very good relationship" between Tokyo and Tehran. Strains between Washington and Tehran have sharply increased in recent weeks, a year after the United States abandoned a 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and world powers to curb Tehran’s nuclear programme in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. "Iran will remain committed to the deal, which is important for the security of the region and the world. Tehran and Tokyo both oppose nuclear weapons," said Rouhani. Trump cranks up pressure on Iran Washington, calling the nuclear deal flawed and seeking to push Iran into new negotiations, intensified sanctions from the start of May, ordering all countries and firms to halt imports of Iranian oil or be banished from the global financial system. It has also dispatched extra armed forces to the region to counter what it describes as Iranian threats. Iran has warned against any military aggression. "Iran will never initiate a war but will give a crushing response to any aggression," Rouhani said. "The source of tensions is America`s staged economic war against Iran. As soon as this war ends, we shall see a very positive development in the region and in the world." Abe has talked to US regional allies like Israel`s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who have supported Trump`s Iran policy. Iran said in May that after 60 days it would resume its enrichment of uranium beyond the low fissile purity - suitable for civilian nuclear power generation - allowed under the deal, unless other powers stuck to their commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal. European parties the deal have promised to help Iran find other ways to trade, although with no success so far. Japan wants to do as much as possible towards peace and stability in the Middle East," Abe said in Tokyo ahead of his departure, according to Iranian TV. But just hours before Abe`s visit to Iran, Yemen`s Iran-backed Houthi rebels carried out a missile attack on a civilian airport in southern Saudi Arabia which wounded 26 people. The Western-backed, Sunni Muslim alliance that has been battling the Houthis in Yemen said the attack was proof of Tehran`s support for what it called cross-border terrorism. Abe will also meet the Islamic Republic`s top authority, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Japan's Abe warns of unintended armed conflict amid soaring US-Iran tension

Japan is in a unique position as a U.S. ally because it has long maintained close ties with Iran, making Abe an ideal mediator. U.S.-Iran ties have frayed since President Donald Trump pulled out of an Iran nuclear deal in which it agreed to curb its nuclear program in return for the lifting of sanctions. The United States has also hinted at military confrontation, sending extra forces to the region to counter what it describes as Iranian threats

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