From a 14-hour wait outside Tokyo's main jail on Christmas Day to a momentous photograph filed from the top of a step-ladder, covering the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-nissan-boss-ghosn-to-walk-free-again-after-court-sets-bail-at-45-million-213331&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjN74Wi2OrhAhUj8XMBHTERAgMQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2aBDJQRsDGnK9vqvtcVUSj">Carlos Ghosn</a> story has mostly been about mastering the art of Japanese stakeout journalism.

That often means waiting for hours on suburban streets or outside offices to accost corporate bosses and politicians for what are called "burasagari," or stakeout briefings. Such vigils were an important part of Reuters coverage in the days following the arrest in November of Ghosn, the former head of Nissan Motor Co.

Learning the craft of burasagari - literally "hanging onto," conjuring up the image of a scrum of journalists clinging to a source - is a rite of passage for many young Japanese reporters, photographers and video journalists.

For instance, there is the media gaggle that lurks during the day in the entrance hall of the prime minister's residence, kept at bay in one corner with a strip of blue tape on the granite floor. Journalists are only allowed to cross when someone walks in.

Elsewhere, reporters stalk the halls of Japan's Ministry of Finance for comments on currencies or the economy. Others press their ears to meeting room doors for muffled snippets at the ruling Liberal Democratic Party offices. On the streets, scandal-tainted celebrities and criminal suspects are shadowed by lurking reporters.

One particular kind of ambush journalism practised in Japan is "yomawari," or night raids, when reporters stake out the residence of an executive or politician, hoping to catch them on their way home.

Night raids over the Ghosn story became so frequent and heavily attended that Nissan sent registered letters in December to news organizations asking them to stop visiting the homes of their executives. The company said neighbours had complained and that the "intrusive reporting" had led to one passerby getting injured, without elaborating.

Jail stakeout

From the time Ghosn was arrested, the Reuters team in Tokyo has spent hours, days even, outside the Tokyo jail. There have also been chilly evenings on night stakeouts in front of his lawyer's office or outside the court waiting for news.

Bounded by elevated motor expressways, a river and train line, the imposing Tokyo Detention House sits in one of Tokyo's poorer neighbourhoods, surrounded by small workshops and apartment blocks.

There are few places for the tired and frozen to take refuge and warm up. A solitary 7-Eleven convenience store nearby often sold out of steamed dumplings, hot drinks and other sustenance.

On Christmas Day, Reuters journalists waited 14 hours outside the jail for a glimpse of Ghosn's co-accused, Greg Kelly, when he was freed on bail.

There was a slice of luck when Ghosn himself was freed on bail in March.

Chief Photographer Issei Kato had been waiting outside the detention centre for two days for Ghosn to appear along with about 200 other journalists.

Kato was standing atop a cameraman's ladder, holding the camera and a heavy 200-400 millimetre lens, with a 1.4x extender, worrying about the fading light as the sun began to set. He couldn't use a flash as he was shooting through a fence that would have flooded the picture with reflected light.

It was then Kato suddenly saw a group of guards and men dressed in work clothes and wearing surgical masks walk quickly out of the entrance in tight formation and get into a small van with a ladder on top.

"I didn't immediately recognise Ghosn amongst them, but thought they somehow looked odd," he said. "I instinctively squeezed the shutter."

As the van swung around and drove away, Kato said he began checking the images through the camera's view screen.

"I suddenly realized that the eyes peeking from behind the mask of one of the men belonged to Ghosn.

"Still atop the step-ladder, I quickly transmitted the picture of Ghosn in his disguise to our European photo desk in Gdynia, Poland, directly from my camera using the wireless transmitter attached to it," he said.

"The transmission of the first image took about 15 seconds. The photo editors in Gdynia quickly cropped, captioned and published the photo within a few minutes."

Kato's image of the masked Ghosn was used widely online and in newspapers.

The former Nissan boss has since been re-arrested and is back in jail.

But on Thursday, the court granted him bail a second time, prompting Kato, who has acquired a longer step-ladder and other journalists to race to the detention centre yet again.

From a 14-hour wait outside Tokyo's main jail on Christmas Day to a momentous photograph filed from the top of a step-ladder, covering the Carlos Ghosn story has mostly been about mastering the art of Japanese stakeout journalism.

From a 14-hour wait outside Tokyo's main jail on Christmas Day to a momentous photograph filed from the top of a step-ladder, covering the Carlos Ghosn story has mostly been about mastering the art of Japanese stakeout journalism. That often means waiting for hours on suburban streets or outside offices to accost corporate bosses and politicians for what are called "burasagari," or stakeout briefings. Such vigils were an important part of Reuters coverage in the days following the arrest in November of Ghosn, the former head of Nissan Motor Co. Learning the craft of burasagari - literally "hanging onto," conjuring up the image of a scrum of journalists clinging to a source - is a rite of passage for many young Japanese reporters, photographers and video journalists. For instance, there is the media gaggle that lurks during the day in the entrance hall of the prime minister's residence, kept at bay in one corner with a strip of blue tape on the granite floor. Journalists are only allowed to cross when someone walks in. Elsewhere, reporters stalk the halls of Japan's Ministry of Finance for comments on currencies or the economy. Others press their ears to meeting room doors for muffled snippets at the ruling Liberal Democratic Party offices. On the streets, scandal-tainted celebrities and criminal suspects are shadowed by lurking reporters. One particular kind of ambush journalism practised in Japan is "yomawari," or night raids, when reporters stake out the residence of an executive or politician, hoping to catch them on their way home. Night raids over the Ghosn story became so frequent and heavily attended that Nissan sent registered letters in December to news organizations asking them to stop visiting the homes of their executives. The company said neighbours had complained and that the "intrusive reporting" had led to one passerby getting injured, without elaborating. Jail stakeout From the time Ghosn was arrested, the Reuters team in Tokyo has spent hours, days even, outside the Tokyo jail. There have also been chilly evenings on night stakeouts in front of his lawyer's office or outside the court waiting for news. Bounded by elevated motor expressways, a river and train line, the imposing Tokyo Detention House sits in one of Tokyo's poorer neighbourhoods, surrounded by small workshops and apartment blocks. There are few places for the tired and frozen to take refuge and warm up. A solitary 7-Eleven convenience store nearby often sold out of steamed dumplings, hot drinks and other sustenance. On Christmas Day, Reuters journalists waited 14 hours outside the jail for a glimpse of Ghosn's co-accused, Greg Kelly, when he was freed on bail. There was a slice of luck when Ghosn himself was freed on bail in March. Chief Photographer Issei Kato had been waiting outside the detention centre for two days for Ghosn to appear along with about 200 other journalists. Kato was standing atop a cameraman's ladder, holding the camera and a heavy 200-400 millimetre lens, with a 1.4x extender, worrying about the fading light as the sun began to set. He couldn't use a flash as he was shooting through a fence that would have flooded the picture with reflected light. It was then Kato suddenly saw a group of guards and men dressed in work clothes and wearing surgical masks walk quickly out of the entrance in tight formation and get into a small van with a ladder on top. "I didn't immediately recognise Ghosn amongst them, but thought they somehow looked odd," he said. "I instinctively squeezed the shutter." As the van swung around and drove away, Kato said he began checking the images through the camera's view screen. "I suddenly realized that the eyes peeking from behind the mask of one of the men belonged to Ghosn. "Still atop the step-ladder, I quickly transmitted the picture of Ghosn in his disguise to our European photo desk in Gdynia, Poland, directly from my camera using the wireless transmitter attached to it," he said. "The transmission of the first image took about 15 seconds. The photo editors in Gdynia quickly cropped, captioned and published the photo within a few minutes." Kato's image of the masked Ghosn was used widely online and in newspapers. The former Nissan boss has since been re-arrested and is back in jail. But on Thursday, the court granted him bail a second time, prompting Kato, who has acquired a longer step-ladder and other journalists to race to the detention centre yet again.

Covering Carlos Ghosn saga: Japanese craft of 'burasagari' and a bit of luck for photojournalists

Japan on Wednesday&nbsp;passed a law compensating tens of thousands of people sterilised, often without their consent, under a government programme to prevent the birth of "inferior descendants" that remained in effect until 1996.

Many of the victims were physically or cognitively disabled, but others suffered from mental illness, leprosy - now a curable affliction known as Hansen's disease - or simply had behavioural problems.

The law, which states that "we seriously reflect and deeply apologise," promises to pay each victim 3.2 million yen ($29,000) in compensation.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-world-war-i-shaped-the-20th-century-and-beyond-176601">How World War I shaped the 20th century and beyond</a>

It was unanimously passed by Japan's upper house of parliament, after previously passing the more powerful lower house. According to the law, victims have five years to apply for the compensation, subject to approval by a board of experts.

Japan's "Eugenics Protection Law" came into effect in 1948 as it struggled with food shortages and rebuilding a ravaged nation, and was only revoked in 1996. During that time an estimated 25,000 people were sterilised, with at least 16,500 not giving consent, which eugenics board could order if it signed off on the procedures after an often cursory review. Few records remain. 
&nbsp;

Japan on Wednesday passed a law compensating tens of thousands of people sterilised, often without their consent, under a government programme to prevent the birth of "inferior descendants" that remained in effect until 1996.

Japan on Wednesday passed a law compensating tens of thousands of people sterilised, often without their consent, under a government programme to prevent the birth of "inferior descendants" that remained in effect until 1996. Many of the victims were physically or cognitively disabled, but others suffered from mental illness, leprosy - now a curable affliction known as Hansen's disease - or simply had behavioural problems. The law, which states that "we seriously reflect and deeply apologise," promises to pay each victim 3.2 million yen ($29,000) in compensation. Also read: How World War I shaped the 20th century and beyond It was unanimously passed by Japan's upper house of parliament, after previously passing the more powerful lower house. According to the law, victims have five years to apply for the compensation, subject to approval by a board of experts. Japan's "Eugenics Protection Law" came into effect in 1948 as it struggled with food shortages and rebuilding a ravaged nation, and was only revoked in 1996. During that time an estimated 25,000 people were sterilised, with at least 16,500 not giving consent, which eugenics board could order if it signed off on the procedures after an often cursory review. Few records remain.

Japan passes law to compensate forced sterilisation victims

Indian, Australian warships arrive in China for naval parade

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-22-dialogue-us-japan-discuss-enhancing-ties-with-india-212049">In 2+2 dialogue, US-Japan discuss enhancing ties with India</a>

As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-envoys-meet-syrias-assad-discuss-post-war-efforts-trade-212033">Russian envoys meet Syria's Assad, discuss post-war efforts, trade</a>

Several Russian envoys met Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and discussed a constitutional committee, trade, as well as the ways to improve Syria's relations with neighbouring Arab countries, Russia's Foreign Ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-lawyers-reviewed-mueller-report-for-10-hours-before-it-was-made-public-211967">Trump lawyers reviewed Mueller report for 10 hours before it was made public</a>

US President Donald Trump's personal lawyers spent at least 10 hours reviewing Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on Russian meddling in the 2016 election before it was made public, two of the lawyers told on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-cant-wait-for-people-like-me-to-grow-up-and-be-the-ones-in-charge-climate-activist-greta-warns-212059">'We can't wait for people like me to grow up and be the ones in charge,' climate activist Greta warns</a>

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has a simple wish for the future, she just wants everything fixed.

Sixteen-year-old Thunberg spoke to Reuters underneath a stage in Rome's Piazza del Popolo on Friday before she addressed thousands of Italian youth on the climate crisis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-teenagers-held-after-killing-of-northern-irish-journalist-212030">Two teenagers held after killing of Northern Irish journalist</a>

Two teenagers have been arrested over the killing of a journalist shot dead in Northern Ireland, police said Saturday, after a murder that has triggered international condemnation.

In 2+2 dialogue, US-Japan discuss enhancing ties with India As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea.

In 2+2 dialogue, US-Japan discuss enhancing ties with India As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea. Russian envoys meet Syria's Assad, discuss post-war efforts, trade Several Russian envoys met Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and discussed a constitutional committee, trade, as well as the ways to improve Syria's relations with neighbouring Arab countries, Russia's Foreign Ministry said. Trump lawyers reviewed Mueller report for 10 hours before it was made public US President Donald Trump's personal lawyers spent at least 10 hours reviewing Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on Russian meddling in the 2016 election before it was made public, two of the lawyers told on Friday. 'We can't wait for people like me to grow up and be the ones in charge,' climate activist Greta warns Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has a simple wish for the future, she just wants everything fixed. Sixteen-year-old Thunberg spoke to Reuters underneath a stage in Rome's Piazza del Popolo on Friday before she addressed thousands of Italian youth on the climate crisis. Two teenagers held after killing of Northern Irish journalist Two teenagers have been arrested over the killing of a journalist shot dead in Northern Ireland, police said Saturday, after a murder that has triggered international condemnation.

News brief: Big stories of the day

As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea.

Speaking at the US-Japan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-meeting-india-us-discuss-indo-pacific-afghanistan-peace-reconciliation-189807">2+2 dialogue</a> in Washington, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/still-in-charge-of-north-korea-negotiations-pompeo-211898">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> said, "The United States and Japan will continue to advance trilateral and multilateral cooperation with other regional partners, notably with the Republic of Korea, Australia, India, and Southeast Asian countries."

The US-Japan 2+2 dialogue includes&nbsp;US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Acting US Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan, Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono, and Japanese Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya.

The focus of the statements was to increase engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.

While Japanese Defence minister Iwaya said his country will "make efforts to realize free and open Indo-Pacific", Japanese foreign minister said, "will make efforts to realize free and open Indo-Pacific". Acting US Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan said the 2+2 dialogue is a "testament to our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific."

India, Japan, Australia, the US have been engaging in dialogues over the Indo-Pacific region. The US last year changed the name of its largest naval commands - the Pacific command - to the Indo-Pacific Command to give a boost to the growing concept while India has set up a separate Indo-Pacific desk in the Ministry of External Affairs. Washington, along with Canberra has announced a number of infrastructure projects in the region.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing India's vision for Indo-Pacific at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore last year said, for New Delhi, the concept stands for "Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN centrality".

ASEAN, the IORA groupings are currently discussing the concept.

As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea.

As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea. Speaking at the US-Japan 2+2 dialogue in Washington, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, "The United States and Japan will continue to advance trilateral and multilateral cooperation with other regional partners, notably with the Republic of Korea, Australia, India, and Southeast Asian countries." The US-Japan 2+2 dialogue includes US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Acting US Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan, Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono, and Japanese Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya. The focus of the statements was to increase engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. While Japanese Defence minister Iwaya said his country will "make efforts to realize free and open Indo-Pacific", Japanese foreign minister said, "will make efforts to realize free and open Indo-Pacific". Acting US Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan said the 2+2 dialogue is a "testament to our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific." India, Japan, Australia, the US have been engaging in dialogues over the Indo-Pacific region. The US last year changed the name of its largest naval commands - the Pacific command - to the Indo-Pacific Command to give a boost to the growing concept while India has set up a separate Indo-Pacific desk in the Ministry of External Affairs. Washington, along with Canberra has announced a number of infrastructure projects in the region. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing India's vision for Indo-Pacific at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore last year said, for New Delhi, the concept stands for "Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN centrality". ASEAN, the IORA groupings are currently discussing the concept.

In 2+2 dialogue, US-Japan discuss enhancing ties with India

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a four-day visit to Japan on Sunday.

During his visit, the minister is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with other dignitaries, reported Radio Pakistan.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Muhammad Faisal, in a statement on Friday, said that the Foreign Minister`s visit will help further deepen our friendly ties and advance mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries in diverse fields.

This comes months after Qureshi had cancelled his scheduled visit of Japan amid tensions with India after the February 14 Pulwama attack, in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed.

Japan condemned the attack for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist group had claimed responsibility. Japan also urged Pakistan to take stronger measures to counter terrorism.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a four-day visit to Japan on Sunday. During his visit, the minister is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with other dignitaries, reported Radio Pakistan.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a four-day visit to Japan on Sunday. During his visit, the minister is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with other dignitaries, reported Radio Pakistan. Foreign Office Spokesperson Muhammad Faisal, in a statement on Friday, said that the Foreign Minister`s visit will help further deepen our friendly ties and advance mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries in diverse fields. This comes months after Qureshi had cancelled his scheduled visit of Japan amid tensions with India after the February 14 Pulwama attack, in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed. Japan condemned the attack for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist group had claimed responsibility. Japan also urged Pakistan to take stronger measures to counter terrorism.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi to visit Japan

The world's first museum devoted to exhibiting cute, colourful photogenic poops has attracted numerous visitors in Japan daily, said the company behind the exhibits, Akatsuki Inc on Wednesday.

At the "Unko (poop in Japanese) Museum" in Yokohama, south of Tokyo, visitors each get a pastel-coloured poop figurine and can take quirky photos with unko art pieces. There is even an interactive display where visitors shout "unko" in front of a microphone and see how big of a poop image they can generate on-screen.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/worlds-first-poop-museum-proves-poopular-with-visitors-in-japan-211471/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Ayami Tashiro, public relations official for Akatsuki Inc., said the company decided on the poop theme of the exhibition to change the public's negative impression of the bodily function and they hope the experiences would entertain both the young and the old. More than 1000 people had visited the museum every day, she added.

The exhibition was opened on March 15 and will run until July 15. The entry is priced as 1600 yen ($14) for adults and 900 yen ($8) for children.

The world's first museum devoted to exhibiting cute, colourful photogenic poops has attracted numerous visitors in Japan daily, said the company behind the exhibits, Akatsuki Inc on Wednesday.

The world's first museum devoted to exhibiting cute, colourful photogenic poops has attracted numerous visitors in Japan daily, said the company behind the exhibits, Akatsuki Inc on Wednesday. At the "Unko (poop in Japanese) Museum" in Yokohama, south of Tokyo, visitors each get a pastel-coloured poop figurine and can take quirky photos with unko art pieces. There is even an interactive display where visitors shout "unko" in front of a microphone and see how big of a poop image they can generate on-screen. Ayami Tashiro, public relations official for Akatsuki Inc., said the company decided on the poop theme of the exhibition to change the public's negative impression of the bodily function and they hope the experiences would entertain both the young and the old. More than 1000 people had visited the museum every day, she added. The exhibition was opened on March 15 and will run until July 15. The entry is priced as 1600 yen ($14) for adults and 900 yen ($8) for children.

World's first poop museum proves 'poopular' with visitors in Japan

The United States and Japanese negotiators are set to open the first round of trade talks on Monday, in the latest front in President Donald Trump's aggressive, multi-pronged strategy to address "chronic US trade imbalances."

After launching blistering tariffs on allies and rivals alike, Trump's trade team has completed a new North American trade pact with Canada and Mexico &nbsp;-- the USMCA -- and one with South Korea and appears to be approaching the final stages of a deal with China, while preparing for the start of negotiations with Europe.

Trump has focused attention on the countries which have the biggest trade surpluses with the United States and pushed his preference for country-specific rather than multilateral deals.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Japan's Economy Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will lead the two days of talks starting Monday afternoon.

Golf buddies Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe agreed in September to launch the talks between the world's first and third-largest economies, which represent about 30 per cent of global output.

In Tokyo last week, Motegi predicted the crunch talks would be "candid," with the first round focused on "making a decision on which areas we will discuss, chiefly in the field of goods."

"I will do my best to have thorough discussions so as to produce a good result in line with our national interest," he said.

The agreement between Trump and Abe said the negotiations initially would address "goods, as well as other key areas including services, that can produce early achievements," while leaving access for US agriculture to Japan's market for a later day.

In May, Trump ordered his administration to investigate the possibility of imposing tariffs of up to 25 per cent on foreign autos and auto parts, a prospect that alarmed the industry and could have serious repercussions for Japan and Europe.

'Very quick agreement'&nbsp;

US Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said last week he was seeking a "very quick agreement" with Japan on tariff cuts for agricultural goods.

"I hope we can come to a very quick agreement with Japan over maybe some temporary ... provisions and hash out the many other issues that take longer in this area," Perdue told reporters in Washington, Kyodo News and the business daily Nikkei reported.

However, the US side is likely to run into opposition from Japan on this issue, Jiji Press reported, citing unnamed government sources.

"There's no way for us to conclude an agricultural deal first," a senior Japanese official told Jiji.

If Japan does so, it may violate World Trade Organization rules related to free-trade agreements, the officials noted, according to the report.

Tokyo is expected to counter with demands that the United States scrap tariffs on Japanese industrial goods if Washington urges an early opening of Japanese agricultural markets.

Tokyo aims to focus only on tariff matters, describing the talks as "TAG," or trade agreement on goods.&nbsp;

However, Washington trade officials have spelt out 22 specific negotiation areas also including non-tariff barriers in Japan's auto market and currency.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Saturday any agreement will include a requirement to refrain from manipulating currencies to gain an advantage in international trade.

Trump and Abe will have plenty of opportunities to talk trade in the coming months. Abe is visiting the United States later this month and Trump is expected in Japan in May to pay his respects to the country's new emperor who will take the throne on May 1.

Trump is then expected back in Japan the following month as the western city of Osaka hosts the Group of 20 summits of world leaders on June 28-29.

The United States and Japanese negotiators are set to open the first round of trade talks on Monday, in the latest front in President Donald Trump's aggressive, multi-pronged strategy to address "chronic US trade imbalances.

The United States and Japanese negotiators are set to open the first round of trade talks on Monday, in the latest front in President Donald Trump's aggressive, multi-pronged strategy to address "chronic US trade imbalances." After launching blistering tariffs on allies and rivals alike, Trump's trade team has completed a new North American trade pact with Canada and Mexico -- the USMCA -- and one with South Korea and appears to be approaching the final stages of a deal with China, while preparing for the start of negotiations with Europe. Trump has focused attention on the countries which have the biggest trade surpluses with the United States and pushed his preference for country-specific rather than multilateral deals. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Japan's Economy Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will lead the two days of talks starting Monday afternoon. Golf buddies Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe agreed in September to launch the talks between the world's first and third-largest economies, which represent about 30 per cent of global output. In Tokyo last week, Motegi predicted the crunch talks would be "candid," with the first round focused on "making a decision on which areas we will discuss, chiefly in the field of goods." "I will do my best to have thorough discussions so as to produce a good result in line with our national interest," he said. The agreement between Trump and Abe said the negotiations initially would address "goods, as well as other key areas including services, that can produce early achievements," while leaving access for US agriculture to Japan's market for a later day. In May, Trump ordered his administration to investigate the possibility of imposing tariffs of up to 25 per cent on foreign autos and auto parts, a prospect that alarmed the industry and could have serious repercussions for Japan and Europe. 'Very quick agreement' US Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said last week he was seeking a "very quick agreement" with Japan on tariff cuts for agricultural goods. "I hope we can come to a very quick agreement with Japan over maybe some temporary ... provisions and hash out the many other issues that take longer in this area," Perdue told reporters in Washington, Kyodo News and the business daily Nikkei reported. However, the US side is likely to run into opposition from Japan on this issue, Jiji Press reported, citing unnamed government sources. "There's no way for us to conclude an agricultural deal first," a senior Japanese official told Jiji. If Japan does so, it may violate World Trade Organization rules related to free-trade agreements, the officials noted, according to the report. Tokyo is expected to counter with demands that the United States scrap tariffs on Japanese industrial goods if Washington urges an early opening of Japanese agricultural markets. Tokyo aims to focus only on tariff matters, describing the talks as "TAG," or trade agreement on goods. However, Washington trade officials have spelt out 22 specific negotiation areas also including non-tariff barriers in Japan's auto market and currency. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Saturday any agreement will include a requirement to refrain from manipulating currencies to gain an advantage in international trade. Trump and Abe will have plenty of opportunities to talk trade in the coming months. Abe is visiting the United States later this month and Trump is expected in Japan in May to pay his respects to the country's new emperor who will take the throne on May 1. Trump is then expected back in Japan the following month as the western city of Osaka hosts the Group of 20 summits of world leaders on June 28-29.

US, Japan to open trade talks amid China deal optimism

The operator of Japan's crippled<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-japan-scientists-study-radioactive-fukushima-particles-202064&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiYwLat6dHhAhVIinAKHXXPAQ0QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3YDfnblUJqPHzqdkzIOBS2"> Fukushima</a> power plant on Monday began removing atomic fuel from inside a building housing one of the reactors that melted down in 2011.

The delicate operation represents the first time the Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) has pulled out fuel rods from inside a highly contaminated building containing the melted-down reactor and comes four years behind schedule.

Due to high radiation levels, technicians used remote-controlled equipment to haul fuel from a "storage pool" inside the building.

Operations were briefly suspended early Monday afternoon after a problem with the equipment removing the fuel but resumed shortly afterwards.

"We finally started this work. We will spend two years removing 566 units of fuel from reactor three," said Takahiro Kimoto, a TEPCO spokesman.

TEPCO removed four units as planned on Monday, with workers continuing to remove debris that has fallen inside the pool and other areas, Kimoto told reporters.

"Factors such as removal of debris and various troubles have caused delays, which we realise have caused significant worries to people in the region and others," Kimoto said.

"Putting safety as our priority, we will carefully continue this work," he promised.

Engineers have had to contend with clearing earthquake debris inside the building and an array of other technical challenges, said TEPCO spokeswoman Yuka Matsubara.

"We had to proceed carefully (to remove debris), and we needed to take measures as dust would waft up and increase radiation readings," she told AFP.

TEPCO engineers will not yet attempt to extract molten nuclear fuel that remains deep inside the mangled reactor. This is considered the most difficult part of the massive clean-up operation and is not expected to begin until 2021.

'Reconstruction plan'&nbsp;

In February, TEPCO sent a remote-controlled probe to pick up pebble-sized pieces of the melted fuel in a bid to find out whether the material could be moved.&nbsp;

The next step in that painstaking process will be to remove some of the fuel as a sample, which is scheduled to happen by March 2020.

The company also faces other difficult challenges, including working out how to dispose of large quantities of contaminated water stored in containers at the plant site.

In the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl in 1986, reactors one, two and three at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant melted down after a deadly earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan in 2011.

The tsunami killed around 18,000 people and caused widespread devastation, and the nuclear meltdown forced the evacuation of areas near the plant.

Reactors four through six were offline at the time of the disaster for inspections and did not suffer meltdowns, through reactor four was damaged by an explosion in the days after the tsunami.

In December 2014, TEPCO finished removing all 1,535 units of nuclear fuel kept inside the storage pool at reactor four.

The company aims to conduct the same operations for the buildings for reactor one and two by 2023 as part of a four-decade plan to dismantle the entire Fukushima plant.

Japan's government has pushed a reconstruction plan for the surrounding region that includes decontaminating affected areas and removing topsoil.

This month, an evacuation order was lifted for part of Okuma, one of two towns where the nuclear plant is located.

But regions affected by the disaster have struggled to attract back residents who fled in the wake of the meltdown, with many still concerned about radiation despite government assurances.

The operator of Japan's crippled Fukushima power plant on Monday began removing atomic fuel from inside a building housing one of the reactors that melted down in 2011.

The operator of Japan's crippled Fukushima power plant on Monday began removing atomic fuel from inside a building housing one of the reactors that melted down in 2011. The delicate operation represents the first time the Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) has pulled out fuel rods from inside a highly contaminated building containing the melted-down reactor and comes four years behind schedule. Due to high radiation levels, technicians used remote-controlled equipment to haul fuel from a "storage pool" inside the building. Operations were briefly suspended early Monday afternoon after a problem with the equipment removing the fuel but resumed shortly afterwards. "We finally started this work. We will spend two years removing 566 units of fuel from reactor three," said Takahiro Kimoto, a TEPCO spokesman. TEPCO removed four units as planned on Monday, with workers continuing to remove debris that has fallen inside the pool and other areas, Kimoto told reporters. "Factors such as removal of debris and various troubles have caused delays, which we realise have caused significant worries to people in the region and others," Kimoto said. "Putting safety as our priority, we will carefully continue this work," he promised. Engineers have had to contend with clearing earthquake debris inside the building and an array of other technical challenges, said TEPCO spokeswoman Yuka Matsubara. "We had to proceed carefully (to remove debris), and we needed to take measures as dust would waft up and increase radiation readings," she told AFP. TEPCO engineers will not yet attempt to extract molten nuclear fuel that remains deep inside the mangled reactor. This is considered the most difficult part of the massive clean-up operation and is not expected to begin until 2021. 'Reconstruction plan' In February, TEPCO sent a remote-controlled probe to pick up pebble-sized pieces of the melted fuel in a bid to find out whether the material could be moved. The next step in that painstaking process will be to remove some of the fuel as a sample, which is scheduled to happen by March 2020. The company also faces other difficult challenges, including working out how to dispose of large quantities of contaminated water stored in containers at the plant site. In the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl in 1986, reactors one, two and three at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant melted down after a deadly earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan in 2011. The tsunami killed around 18,000 people and caused widespread devastation, and the nuclear meltdown forced the evacuation of areas near the plant. Reactors four through six were offline at the time of the disaster for inspections and did not suffer meltdowns, through reactor four was damaged by an explosion in the days after the tsunami. In December 2014, TEPCO finished removing all 1,535 units of nuclear fuel kept inside the storage pool at reactor four. The company aims to conduct the same operations for the buildings for reactor one and two by 2023 as part of a four-decade plan to dismantle the entire Fukushima plant. Japan's government has pushed a reconstruction plan for the surrounding region that includes decontaminating affected areas and removing topsoil. This month, an evacuation order was lifted for part of Okuma, one of two towns where the nuclear plant is located. But regions affected by the disaster have struggled to attract back residents who fled in the wake of the meltdown, with many still concerned about radiation despite government assurances.

Nuclear fuel removed from crippled Japan plant

Shares of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-orders-talks-between-teslas-musk-securities-regulators-208033&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjW5dbz5snhAhUMr48KHUkHAJQQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3T2-MF6HF1o32HPqM8ZejE">Tesla </a>fell Thursday following a report the electric car company and electronics giant Panasonic are suspending plans to expand a battery plant due to weak demand for the vehicles.

Tesla Motors, which is led by Elon Musk, finished at $268.42, down 2.8 per cent.

Tesla and Panasonic froze a plan to boost the capacity of the Gigafactory 1 battery factory in the US state of Nevada "as concerns mount on Wall Street about weakening demand at Elon Musk's car company," Nikkei Asian Review reported.

The companies have stepped back as Panasonic's losses on the Tesla batteries deepened in the financial year that ended in March, Nikkei said.&nbsp;

Japan-based Panasonic had been seen pumping as much as $1.4 billion into the plan to boost Nevada production by around 50 per cent.

A Tesla spokesperson said, "we will, of course, continue to make new investments in Gigafactory 1, as needed.&nbsp;

"However, we think there is far more output to be gained from improving existing production equipment than was previously estimated."

Tesla directly criticized Nikkei's characterization of the situation in the subsequent email.

"We will, of course, continue to make new investments in Gigafactory 1, as needed," the Tesla spokesperson said in the follow-up statement.&nbsp;

"Most importantly, contrary to what is implied in this report, our demand for cells continues to outpace supply. It remains the fundamental constraint on Tesla vehicle and Powerwall/Powerpack production."

Nikkei also reported that Panasonic will suspend planned investment at Tesla's new Shanghai plant and will instead provide technical support to the project.

Panasonic has not made announcements about partnering with Tesla in Shanghai.

Shares of Tesla have had a volatile ride over the last year as Musk has overseen the ramp-up of the company's Model 3 sedan, the company's first vehicle directed at the middle market.

Investors have at times punished Tesla due to controversies surrounding Musk, who has sparred repeatedly with US securities regulators and appeared during one filmed interview last year to be smoking marijuana.&nbsp;

Company results have also been up and down. Shares were punished last week following disappointing first-quarter car deliveries.

Shares of Tesla fell Thursday following a report the electric car company and electronics giant Panasonic are suspending plans to expand a battery plant due to weak demand for the vehicles.

Shares of Tesla fell Thursday following a report the electric car company and electronics giant Panasonic are suspending plans to expand a battery plant due to weak demand for the vehicles. Tesla Motors, which is led by Elon Musk, finished at $268.42, down 2.8 per cent. Tesla and Panasonic froze a plan to boost the capacity of the Gigafactory 1 battery factory in the US state of Nevada "as concerns mount on Wall Street about weakening demand at Elon Musk's car company," Nikkei Asian Review reported. The companies have stepped back as Panasonic's losses on the Tesla batteries deepened in the financial year that ended in March, Nikkei said. Japan-based Panasonic had been seen pumping as much as $1.4 billion into the plan to boost Nevada production by around 50 per cent. A Tesla spokesperson said, "we will, of course, continue to make new investments in Gigafactory 1, as needed. "However, we think there is far more output to be gained from improving existing production equipment than was previously estimated." Tesla directly criticized Nikkei's characterization of the situation in the subsequent email. "We will, of course, continue to make new investments in Gigafactory 1, as needed," the Tesla spokesperson said in the follow-up statement. "Most importantly, contrary to what is implied in this report, our demand for cells continues to outpace supply. It remains the fundamental constraint on Tesla vehicle and Powerwall/Powerpack production." Nikkei also reported that Panasonic will suspend planned investment at Tesla's new Shanghai plant and will instead provide technical support to the project. Panasonic has not made announcements about partnering with Tesla in Shanghai. Shares of Tesla have had a volatile ride over the last year as Musk has overseen the ramp-up of the company's Model 3 sedan, the company's first vehicle directed at the middle market. Investors have at times punished Tesla due to controversies surrounding Musk, who has sparred repeatedly with US securities regulators and appeared during one filmed interview last year to be smoking marijuana. Company results have also been up and down. Shares were punished last week following disappointing first-quarter car deliveries.

Tesla shares fall over reports of battery plant suspension

Search and rescue teams found wreckage belonging to a Japanese<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-f-35-fighter-jet-disappears-from-radar-over-pacific-209070"> Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter</a> that disappeared on Tuesday over the Pacific Ocean close to northern Japan, Japanese defence minister said on Wednesday (April 10).

The advanced, single-seat jet was flying about 135 km (84 miles) east of the Misawa air base in Aomori Prefecture at about 7:27 p.m. (1027 GMT) on Tuesday, when it disappeared from radar, Japanese Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya told reporters.

Japan's first squadron of F-35s has just become operational at Misawa and the government plans to buy 87 of the stealth fighters to modernise its air defences as China's military power grows.

A US military short take-off and landing (STOVL) F-35B crashed near the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in South Carolina in September prompting a temporary grounding of the aircraft.

Lockheed Martin also makes a C version of the fighter designed to operate off carriers.

Search and rescue teams found wreckage belonging to a Japanese Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter that disappeared on Tuesday over the Pacific Ocean close to northern Japan, Japanese defence minister said on Wednesday (April 10).

Search and rescue teams found wreckage belonging to a Japanese Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter that disappeared on Tuesday over the Pacific Ocean close to northern Japan, Japanese defence minister said on Wednesday (April 10). The advanced, single-seat jet was flying about 135 km (84 miles) east of the Misawa air base in Aomori Prefecture at about 7:27 p.m. (1027 GMT) on Tuesday, when it disappeared from radar, Japanese Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya told reporters. Japan's first squadron of F-35s has just become operational at Misawa and the government plans to buy 87 of the stealth fighters to modernise its air defences as China's military power grows. A US military short take-off and landing (STOVL) F-35B crashed near the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in South Carolina in September prompting a temporary grounding of the aircraft. Lockheed Martin also makes a C version of the fighter designed to operate off carriers.

Rescue teams find F-35 stealth fighter jet wreckage off Japan coast

Japan's Olympic Minister, Yoshitaka Sakurada, resigned on Wednesday after he made remarks that offended people affected by the massive earthquake and tsunami that triggered nuclear meltdowns in 2011.

Sakurada's resignation comes only a year before the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.

"Minister Sakurada offered to resign as he made comments that hurt the feelings of those in the disaster affected areas," Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told reporters after he accepted Sakurada's resignation.

"It is the Abe government's unwavering policy to do everything we can for recovery while keeping in touch with the feelings of people in disaster-hit areas ... As prime minister, I would like to offer my deep apology for the comment."

Abe has decided to tap lower house lawmaker Shunichi Suzuki, who was Olympic minister before Sakurada took the post last October, to fill the vacancy, public broadcaster NHK said.

Japan's Olympic Minister, Yoshitaka Sakurada, resigned on Wednesday after he made remarks that offended people affected by the massive earthquake and tsunami that triggered nuclear meltdowns in 2011.

Japan's Olympic Minister, Yoshitaka Sakurada, resigned on Wednesday after he made remarks that offended people affected by the massive earthquake and tsunami that triggered nuclear meltdowns in 2011. Sakurada's resignation comes only a year before the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. "Minister Sakurada offered to resign as he made comments that hurt the feelings of those in the disaster affected areas," Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told reporters after he accepted Sakurada's resignation. "It is the Abe government's unwavering policy to do everything we can for recovery while keeping in touch with the feelings of people in disaster-hit areas ... As prime minister, I would like to offer my deep apology for the comment." Abe has decided to tap lower house lawmaker Shunichi Suzuki, who was Olympic minister before Sakurada took the post last October, to fill the vacancy, public broadcaster NHK said.

2020 Tokyo games: Japan Olympic minister Yoshitaka Sakurada resigns after offending remarks

The British Ministry of Defence is in close touch with US officials and reviewing the status of its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rescue-teams-find-f-35-stealth-fighter-jet-wreckage-off-japan-coast-209186">17 F-35B fighter jets</a> after the crash of a Japanese F-35 jet in the Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, a ministry spokesperson said.

"Safety is of the utmost importance and very closely managed on the F-35 programme. We will continue to review the situation as further information becomes available," the spokesperson said.

Britain, which plans to buy a total of 138 F-35 fighter jets built by Lockheed Martin, declared its fleet of F-35B fighter jets ready for initial combat operations from land in January.

The British Ministry of Defence is in close touch with US officials and reviewing the status of its 17 F-35B fighter jets after the crash of a Japanese F-35 jet in the Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, a ministry spokesperson said.

The British Ministry of Defence is in close touch with US officials and reviewing the status of its 17 F-35B fighter jets after the crash of a Japanese F-35 jet in the Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, a ministry spokesperson said. "Safety is of the utmost importance and very closely managed on the F-35 programme. We will continue to review the situation as further information becomes available," the spokesperson said. Britain, which plans to buy a total of 138 F-35 fighter jets built by Lockheed Martin, declared its fleet of F-35B fighter jets ready for initial combat operations from land in January.

UK reviewing status of 17 F-35s after Japan crash

A Japanese F-35 stealth fighter jet with one pilot on board disappeared from radar while on a training mission over the Pacific on Tuesday night, the defence ministry said.

The fighter jet went missing at around 7:30 pm as it was flying some 135 kilometres east of Misawa, northeastern Japan, a ministry spokeswoman said.

It was not immediately clear if it had it crashed, the spokeswoman said, adding: "We are still trying to search for the aircraft."

The fate of the pilot was not immediately clear.

The plane lost contact about 30 minutes after taking off from Misawa Air Base, public broadcaster NHK said.

The Self-Defence Forces and coastguard dispatched vessels to carry out rescue operations, NHK added.

A Japanese F-35 stealth fighter jet with one pilot on board disappeared from radar while on a training mission over the Pacific on Tuesday night, the defence ministry said.

A Japanese F-35 stealth fighter jet with one pilot on board disappeared from radar while on a training mission over the Pacific on Tuesday night, the defence ministry said. The fighter jet went missing at around 7:30 pm as it was flying some 135 kilometres east of Misawa, northeastern Japan, a ministry spokeswoman said. It was not immediately clear if it had it crashed, the spokeswoman said, adding: "We are still trying to search for the aircraft." The fate of the pilot was not immediately clear. The plane lost contact about 30 minutes after taking off from Misawa Air Base, public broadcaster NHK said. The Self-Defence Forces and coastguard dispatched vessels to carry out rescue operations, NHK added.

Japan F-35 fighter jet disappears from radar over Pacific

Suicide has a long history in Japan as a way to avoid shame or dishonour, and getting psychological help was stigmatised. But when suicides hit a peak of 34,427 in 2003, it alarmed policymakers and drew foreign attention, often a catalyst for change in Japan.

Helping, listening, caring: Japanese prefecture records dramatic decrease in suicides

Japan's Prime Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-cronyism-scandal-japans-finance-minister-to-skip-g20-meeting-35618&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiSytLyk8DhAhVt7HMBHVX2AfUQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1RKFW75e3aATX6dN0qXfsA">Shinzo Abe </a>announced Monday plans to visit the United States, Canada and France this month before his country hosts the G20 later this year.

The tour from April 22 to 29 will also include stops in Italy, Belgium and Slovakia, a foreign ministry official said.

The trip comes ahead of long-awaited trade talks between Washington and Tokyo, as US President<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-opens-under-assault-from-trump-on-collective-action-180345&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiSytLyk8DhAhVt7HMBHVX2AfUQFggOMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1GXHmUZ8HyCRuZwl_Nph4O"> Donald Trump</a> looks to negotiate a bilateral deal and threatens auto tariffs.

The visit to France comes at a sensitive time, with ex-Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn, who holds French citizenship, back behind bars in Tokyo.

He was re-arrested last week while out on bail and faces multiple charges of financial misconduct.

Abe said the trip was intended to "affirm close co-operation for success in the G20 summit in Osaka", which will be held June 28 and 29.

Trump is also expected to visit Japan in May to become the first foreign head of state to meet Japan's new emperor, Naruhito, who will be enthroned on May 1.

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced Monday plans to visit the United States, Canada and France this month before his country hosts the G20 later this year.

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced Monday plans to visit the United States, Canada and France this month before his country hosts the G20 later this year. The tour from April 22 to 29 will also include stops in Italy, Belgium and Slovakia, a foreign ministry official said. The trip comes ahead of long-awaited trade talks between Washington and Tokyo, as US President Donald Trump looks to negotiate a bilateral deal and threatens auto tariffs. The visit to France comes at a sensitive time, with ex-Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn, who holds French citizenship, back behind bars in Tokyo. He was re-arrested last week while out on bail and faces multiple charges of financial misconduct. Abe said the trip was intended to "affirm close co-operation for success in the G20 summit in Osaka", which will be held June 28 and 29. Trump is also expected to visit Japan in May to become the first foreign head of state to meet Japan's new emperor, Naruhito, who will be enthroned on May 1.

Japan's Abe to visit US, France on pre-G20 tour

Arrested former Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn is set to name the people he believes are responsible for his downfall in Japan, his wife said in an interview on Sunday as she fled Tokyo out of fear she could be detained.

Ghosn was re-arrested last week in the Japanese capital over fresh allegations of financial misconduct which will see him held in custody until at least April 14.&nbsp;

Speaking to the Journal du Dimanche newspaper in France, his wife Carole detailed the latest twists in the extraordinary saga, saying that Ghosn had recorded a video interview in English before his detention.&nbsp;

"He names the people responsible for what has happened to him. The lawyers have it. It will be released soon," she told the newspaper.

Carole added that she had fled Tokyo on a flight to Paris — with support from the French ambassador to Tokyo— because she "felt in danger."

Despite her Lebanese passport being confiscated by Japanese authorities, Carole said she was able to use her American passport to board a flight and was accompanied by the ambassador to the airport.

"He didn't leave me until the plane," she explained. "Up to the last second, I didn't know if they were going to let me fly. It was surreal."&nbsp;

The role of the French ambassador could lead to fresh friction between the countries over the highly sensitive case, which involves Nissan and French car maker Renault, which were both previously run by Ghosn.

Japanese news channel NHK said prosecutors in Tokyo wanted to question Carole on a voluntary basis.

Other reports in Japan say that investigators are looking into allegations that company money allegedly misused by Ghosn could have transited through a business that was run by his wife.

'Different person' 
Carole intends now to try to pressure the French government to do more for her husband whose 108-day imprisonment in Japan between November 19 and March 6 had left him a "different person," she told The Financial Times in a separate interview.

France's foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Saturday he had raised the case during talks with his Japanese counterpart Taro Kono on the sidelines of the meeting of Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers in the French resort of Dinard.

Le Drian said he had "reminded him of our attachment to the presumption of innocence and the full rights of consular protection."

Japanese authorities are looking into new allegations that Ghosn transferred some $15 million in Nissan funds between late 2015 and mid-2018 to a dealership in Oman.

They suspect around $5 million of these funds were siphoned off for Ghosn's use, including for the purchase of a luxury yacht and financing personal investments.

Prosecutors say Ghosn "betrayed" his duty not to cause losses to Nissan "in order to benefit himself."

Ghosn denies the allegations and says he is also innocent of the three formal charges he faces: two charges of deferring his salary and concealing that in official shareholders' documents, and a further charge related to investment losses.

The man previously seen as the most powerful figure in the global car industry told French channel TF1 last week that he was "a combative man and an innocent man" and vowed to "defend myself to the bitter end".

And he voiced concern that he would not be given a fair hearing in Japan where around 99 percent of trials result in a conviction.

Arrested former Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn is set to name the people he believes are responsible for his downfall in Japan, his wife said in an interview on Sunday as she fled Tokyo out of fear she could be detained.

Arrested former Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn is set to name the people he believes are responsible for his downfall in Japan, his wife said in an interview on Sunday as she fled Tokyo out of fear she could be detained. Ghosn was re-arrested last week in the Japanese capital over fresh allegations of financial misconduct which will see him held in custody until at least April 14. Speaking to the Journal du Dimanche newspaper in France, his wife Carole detailed the latest twists in the extraordinary saga, saying that Ghosn had recorded a video interview in English before his detention. "He names the people responsible for what has happened to him. The lawyers have it. It will be released soon," she told the newspaper. Carole added that she had fled Tokyo on a flight to Paris — with support from the French ambassador to Tokyo— because she "felt in danger." Despite her Lebanese passport being confiscated by Japanese authorities, Carole said she was able to use her American passport to board a flight and was accompanied by the ambassador to the airport. "He didn't leave me until the plane," she explained. "Up to the last second, I didn't know if they were going to let me fly. It was surreal." The role of the French ambassador could lead to fresh friction between the countries over the highly sensitive case, which involves Nissan and French car maker Renault, which were both previously run by Ghosn. Japanese news channel NHK said prosecutors in Tokyo wanted to question Carole on a voluntary basis. Other reports in Japan say that investigators are looking into allegations that company money allegedly misused by Ghosn could have transited through a business that was run by his wife. 'Different person' Carole intends now to try to pressure the French government to do more for her husband whose 108-day imprisonment in Japan between November 19 and March 6 had left him a "different person," she told The Financial Times in a separate interview. France's foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Saturday he had raised the case during talks with his Japanese counterpart Taro Kono on the sidelines of the meeting of Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers in the French resort of Dinard. Le Drian said he had "reminded him of our attachment to the presumption of innocence and the full rights of consular protection." Japanese authorities are looking into new allegations that Ghosn transferred some $15 million in Nissan funds between late 2015 and mid-2018 to a dealership in Oman. They suspect around $5 million of these funds were siphoned off for Ghosn's use, including for the purchase of a luxury yacht and financing personal investments. Prosecutors say Ghosn "betrayed" his duty not to cause losses to Nissan "in order to benefit himself." Ghosn denies the allegations and says he is also innocent of the three formal charges he faces: two charges of deferring his salary and concealing that in official shareholders' documents, and a further charge related to investment losses. The man previously seen as the most powerful figure in the global car industry told French channel TF1 last week that he was "a combative man and an innocent man" and vowed to "defend myself to the bitter end". And he voiced concern that he would not be given a fair hearing in Japan where around 99 percent of trials result in a conviction.

Carlos Ghosn to name names as wife flees Tokyo

From a ritual New Year's breakfast and Shinto prayers to receiving state visits and opening parliament, Japan's emperor has a diverse professional brief that occupies virtually every day of his year.

National responsibilities

Under the post-war 1947 constitution, Japan's emperor has no political power, but he retains several duties that relate to the country's political scene.

He signs the documents formalising the nomination of the prime minister, members of the government, and Supreme Court president.

He is not considered Japan's head of state, but he nonetheless plays a key role in matters of protocol, including opening sessions of parliament, promulgating laws and treaties, awarding honours and receiving credentials from incoming ambassadors.

The emperor each year signs around a thousand documents and, according to the Imperial Household Agency, he scrutinises the contents of each one carefully.

State visits are only qualified as such when they include a meeting with the emperor, and state banquets for visiting dignitaries are held at the palace.

Receptions and ceremonies

The royal couple also attend or preside over hundreds of ceremonies, receptions, performances, audiences and meals throughout the year, and welcome a wide range of guests to the palace including figures from the political and business world and civil society.

But conversation must be careful: Members of the imperial family are prohibited from public statements of opinion that could be interpreted as weighing in on the political scene.

And the emperor is also a key part of numerous rituals in Japan's native Shinto religion, including prayers for imperial ancestors held at the palace and for a good harvest.

Visits and trips

The imperial couple travel at least three times a year inside Japan, and they have put a focus on travelling soon after natural disasters to affected areas to meet survivors.

This effort was characterised by the solemn address Emperor Akihito gave days after the 2011 tsunami to calm public fears in the wake of the disaster and the meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant.

From 2012 to 2016, the royal couple led the annual national ceremony commemorating the victims of the March 2011 tsunami.

The royal couple have also visited hundreds of establishments for children, the elderly and people with handicaps across the country.

And each year they preside over several national festivals promoting sports and the environment.

Until recently, the royal pair were still travelling overseas though far less than in their younger years. The emperor has now largely handed over foreign engagements to other members of the royal family.

Traditions and hobbies

Both the emperor and empress enjoy composing "waka", a traditional form of Japanese poetry long associated with the royal family.

Each January, the emperor organises readings of traditional New Year poetry at the palace. Poems written by the couple and ordinary citizens are read in front of the royal family and screened by national broadcaster NHK.

Like his father Hirohito (known posthumously as Emperor Showa, after the name of his reign), Akihito each year plants and harvests rice from a field in the imperial grounds.

He is also a passionate scientist with an interest in marine life and has published several journal articles.

Empress Michiko is a pianist and music lover, and with the help of palace employees she cultivates silkworms at a centre in the royal residence.

Part of the silk produced at the palace has been used to restore historic fabric artifacts belonging to the royal family.

From a ritual New Year's breakfast and Shinto prayers to receiving state visits and opening parliament, Japan's emperor has a diverse professional brief that occupies virtually every day of his year.

From a ritual New Year's breakfast and Shinto prayers to receiving state visits and opening parliament, Japan's emperor has a diverse professional brief that occupies virtually every day of his year. National responsibilities Under the post-war 1947 constitution, Japan's emperor has no political power, but he retains several duties that relate to the country's political scene. He signs the documents formalising the nomination of the prime minister, members of the government, and Supreme Court president. He is not considered Japan's head of state, but he nonetheless plays a key role in matters of protocol, including opening sessions of parliament, promulgating laws and treaties, awarding honours and receiving credentials from incoming ambassadors. The emperor each year signs around a thousand documents and, according to the Imperial Household Agency, he scrutinises the contents of each one carefully. State visits are only qualified as such when they include a meeting with the emperor, and state banquets for visiting dignitaries are held at the palace. Receptions and ceremonies The royal couple also attend or preside over hundreds of ceremonies, receptions, performances, audiences and meals throughout the year, and welcome a wide range of guests to the palace including figures from the political and business world and civil society. But conversation must be careful: Members of the imperial family are prohibited from public statements of opinion that could be interpreted as weighing in on the political scene. And the emperor is also a key part of numerous rituals in Japan's native Shinto religion, including prayers for imperial ancestors held at the palace and for a good harvest. Visits and trips The imperial couple travel at least three times a year inside Japan, and they have put a focus on travelling soon after natural disasters to affected areas to meet survivors. This effort was characterised by the solemn address Emperor Akihito gave days after the 2011 tsunami to calm public fears in the wake of the disaster and the meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant. From 2012 to 2016, the royal couple led the annual national ceremony commemorating the victims of the March 2011 tsunami. The royal couple have also visited hundreds of establishments for children, the elderly and people with handicaps across the country. And each year they preside over several national festivals promoting sports and the environment. Until recently, the royal pair were still travelling overseas though far less than in their younger years. The emperor has now largely handed over foreign engagements to other members of the royal family. Traditions and hobbies Both the emperor and empress enjoy composing "waka", a traditional form of Japanese poetry long associated with the royal family. Each January, the emperor organises readings of traditional New Year poetry at the palace. Poems written by the couple and ordinary citizens are read in front of the royal family and screened by national broadcaster NHK. Like his father Hirohito (known posthumously as Emperor Showa, after the name of his reign), Akihito each year plants and harvests rice from a field in the imperial grounds. He is also a passionate scientist with an interest in marine life and has published several journal articles. Empress Michiko is a pianist and music lover, and with the help of palace employees she cultivates silkworms at a centre in the royal residence. Part of the silk produced at the palace has been used to restore historic fabric artifacts belonging to the royal family.

Poetry and prayers: The daily life of Japan's emperor

When Japan's Crown Prince Naruhito ascends the Chrysanthemum Throne, he will be taking on a role that has changed almost beyond recognition from its mythological origins.

Naruhito will be Japan's 126th emperor, in a line said to stretch back more than 2,600 years.

Recent decades have seen the emperor's role recast, as Naruhito's father - Akihito - stepped beyond his religious remit to offer not just prayers but also comfort to survivors of Japan's natural disasters.

He stunned the nation in 1991 when he rolled up his sleeves and took off his shoes in a shelter to kneel before survivors of a volcanic eruption - drawing outcry from some nationalist zealots.

His more modern approach was once seen as risky, said Yuji Otabe, history professor at Shizuoka University of Welfare.

"It was a sort of gamble," Otabe told AFP. "Such an act would have been impossible in the past because the Emperor was regarded as god."

But the changes have helped cement Akihito's popularity, with the vast majority of Japanese saying they have "positive feelings" or "respect" for him.

"In one era, emperors were like popes and in another they were like czars. Now the Emperor's role can be said to be similar to kings," said Asao Kure, associate professor at Kyoto Sangyo University.

"The roles of the emperor have mirrored each era of the country," Kure added.

Enormous power

Tradition holds that Japanese emperors are descended from legendary sun goddess Amaterasu, who imparted the "three treasures" of a mirror, sword and jewels that are a key part of the imperial regalia.

In keeping with their mythological status, the "treasures" are kept from public sight and will remain hidden even when handed to Naruhito as he takes the throne.

In the early years of Japan's imperial history, emperors were military commanders from powerful families who controlled wealthy settlements.

Regarded as descendants of Amaterasu, emperors have always played a key role in performing the rites of Japan's native Shinto religion, which venerates deities found in nature.

The role of the emperor in governing, however, has varied. Some, like Emperor Tenmu in the seventh century, wielded enormous power.

Dubbed "king of kings" by imperial enthusiasts, Tenmu shaped the political system based on ancient law and cemented imperial power.

But many other emperors served as little more than puppets or rubber stamps for samurai warriors or ambitious officials from leading families.

'Long live the emperor'

In the late 1860s, reformists brought in an era of rapid change that turned Japan from a rural backwater into a world power.

Compared to the titular heads of state that had come before, the new emperor Meiji -- great-grandfather of outgoing Emperor Akihito - wielded significant power.

Defined as "sacred and inviolable", the emperor was now a father figure to be served and obeyed by his family - the state.

That ideological framework was used by nationalists in the military and government to lead the country into conflict during World War II, when many young soldiers carried out suicide attacks screaming: "Long live the Emperor."

When Akihito was born in 1933, the role he was expected to inherit came with full sovereign powers, including dissolving parliament, issuing decrees and commanding the armed forces.

All that ended with Japan's defeat in World War II. Then crown prince Akihito listened in tears on August 15, 1945 as his father Hirohito made an unprecedented radio address to announce the shock loss.

The future of the imperial household hung in the balance, with some in favour of dissolving the monarchy because of Hirohito's war role.

But US General Douglas MacArthur, who led the post-war occupation of Japan, opted to preserve the dynasty while greatly curbing its power, effectively turning the emperor into a figurehead.

After World War II, an imperial rescript clarified the emperor should not be regarded as divine, but performing prayers for a successful harvest and national peace is still considered one of his key responsibilities.

Shifting with the times

Akihito embraced the revised role when he took the throne in 1989, and focused on remoulding the monarchy for a democratic age.

On top of religious and formal duties such as attending ceremonies and receiving foreign guests, he has advocated for peace even as debate continues on Hirohito's war role.

Akihito has also rejected nationalism, expressed "deep remorse" over Japan's past and called for history to be remembered, rather than revised.

He has said defining his position as emperor has been an "endless" process, one he now bequeaths to Naruhito.

The crown prince has already indicated he will continue reshaping the role, calling for "new royal duties" to fit modern times and saying he hopes, like his father, to be "close to the people".

When Japan's Crown Prince Naruhito ascends the Chrysanthemum Throne, he will be taking on a role that has changed almost beyond recognition from its mythological origins.

When Japan's Crown Prince Naruhito ascends the Chrysanthemum Throne, he will be taking on a role that has changed almost beyond recognition from its mythological origins. Naruhito will be Japan's 126th emperor, in a line said to stretch back more than 2,600 years. Recent decades have seen the emperor's role recast, as Naruhito's father - Akihito - stepped beyond his religious remit to offer not just prayers but also comfort to survivors of Japan's natural disasters. He stunned the nation in 1991 when he rolled up his sleeves and took off his shoes in a shelter to kneel before survivors of a volcanic eruption - drawing outcry from some nationalist zealots. His more modern approach was once seen as risky, said Yuji Otabe, history professor at Shizuoka University of Welfare. "It was a sort of gamble," Otabe told AFP. "Such an act would have been impossible in the past because the Emperor was regarded as god." But the changes have helped cement Akihito's popularity, with the vast majority of Japanese saying they have "positive feelings" or "respect" for him. "In one era, emperors were like popes and in another they were like czars. Now the Emperor's role can be said to be similar to kings," said Asao Kure, associate professor at Kyoto Sangyo University. "The roles of the emperor have mirrored each era of the country," Kure added. Enormous power Tradition holds that Japanese emperors are descended from legendary sun goddess Amaterasu, who imparted the "three treasures" of a mirror, sword and jewels that are a key part of the imperial regalia. In keeping with their mythological status, the "treasures" are kept from public sight and will remain hidden even when handed to Naruhito as he takes the throne. In the early years of Japan's imperial history, emperors were military commanders from powerful families who controlled wealthy settlements. Regarded as descendants of Amaterasu, emperors have always played a key role in performing the rites of Japan's native Shinto religion, which venerates deities found in nature. The role of the emperor in governing, however, has varied. Some, like Emperor Tenmu in the seventh century, wielded enormous power. Dubbed "king of kings" by imperial enthusiasts, Tenmu shaped the political system based on ancient law and cemented imperial power. But many other emperors served as little more than puppets or rubber stamps for samurai warriors or ambitious officials from leading families. 'Long live the emperor' In the late 1860s, reformists brought in an era of rapid change that turned Japan from a rural backwater into a world power. Compared to the titular heads of state that had come before, the new emperor Meiji -- great-grandfather of outgoing Emperor Akihito - wielded significant power. Defined as "sacred and inviolable", the emperor was now a father figure to be served and obeyed by his family - the state. That ideological framework was used by nationalists in the military and government to lead the country into conflict during World War II, when many young soldiers carried out suicide attacks screaming: "Long live the Emperor." When Akihito was born in 1933, the role he was expected to inherit came with full sovereign powers, including dissolving parliament, issuing decrees and commanding the armed forces. All that ended with Japan's defeat in World War II. Then crown prince Akihito listened in tears on August 15, 1945 as his father Hirohito made an unprecedented radio address to announce the shock loss. The future of the imperial household hung in the balance, with some in favour of dissolving the monarchy because of Hirohito's war role. But US General Douglas MacArthur, who led the post-war occupation of Japan, opted to preserve the dynasty while greatly curbing its power, effectively turning the emperor into a figurehead. After World War II, an imperial rescript clarified the emperor should not be regarded as divine, but performing prayers for a successful harvest and national peace is still considered one of his key responsibilities. Shifting with the times Akihito embraced the revised role when he took the throne in 1989, and focused on remoulding the monarchy for a democratic age. On top of religious and formal duties such as attending ceremonies and receiving foreign guests, he has advocated for peace even as debate continues on Hirohito's war role. Akihito has also rejected nationalism, expressed "deep remorse" over Japan's past and called for history to be remembered, rather than revised. He has said defining his position as emperor has been an "endless" process, one he now bequeaths to Naruhito. The crown prince has already indicated he will continue reshaping the role, calling for "new royal duties" to fit modern times and saying he hopes, like his father, to be "close to the people".

Japan's emperors: From divine commander to 'comforter-in-chief'

Japan to take help of AI tool for fashion industry

Nepal and Japan have signed a labour pact under which Nepali workers residing in Japan will receive the status of 'Specified Skilled Workers' (SSW).

The signed pact will come into effect from April 1 and would not include those who went to Japan earlier.

Ram Prasad Ghimire, Joint Secretary at Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security and Masamichi Saigo, Japanese Ambassador to Nepal signed the&nbsp;pact on Monday.

As per the Memorandum of Cooperation, a separate unit will be established under the Department of Foreign Employment (DOFE) to facilitate the recruitment the process of Nepali workers with the status of residence of SSW including call for applicants, facilitating the Japanese side to conduct the language and skills tests and overseeing the deployment of successful applicants to Japan.

The MoC also states that a joint committee with representatives from both sides has been established to ensure the proper implementation of the MoC and to take necessary corrective measures to improve the recruitment, employment and repatriation of Nepali workers with the status of residence of SSW.

On the basis of the agreement, Japan is planning to take Nepal migrant workers to work in 14 sectors including industrial, nursing, construction and sanitation.&nbsp;

As per the Japanese plan, a total of 345,150 workers are expected to be flown in the first five years which includes 60,000 nurses and 53,000 workers for restaurants.

All those workers will flow to Japan from Nepal as per the South Korean model and they will be paid a minimum salary of Nepal rs. 200,000 per months after they match the eligibility criteria.

Nepal had proposed to send workers to Japan through the government during the discussion between the technical teams of the two countries on January 16 to decide the process for sending workers.

Japan will take those workers from Nepal, Vietnam, China, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia and Mongolia. Japan has already implemented a new visa system to take migrant workers.

Nepal and Japan have signed a labour pact under which Nepali workers residing in Japan will receive the status of 'Specified Skilled Workers' (SSW). The signed pact will come into effect from April 1 and would not include those who went to Japan earlier.

Nepal and Japan have signed a labour pact under which Nepali workers residing in Japan will receive the status of 'Specified Skilled Workers' (SSW). The signed pact will come into effect from April 1 and would not include those who went to Japan earlier. Ram Prasad Ghimire, Joint Secretary at Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security and Masamichi Saigo, Japanese Ambassador to Nepal signed the pact on Monday. As per the Memorandum of Cooperation, a separate unit will be established under the Department of Foreign Employment (DOFE) to facilitate the recruitment the process of Nepali workers with the status of residence of SSW including call for applicants, facilitating the Japanese side to conduct the language and skills tests and overseeing the deployment of successful applicants to Japan. The MoC also states that a joint committee with representatives from both sides has been established to ensure the proper implementation of the MoC and to take necessary corrective measures to improve the recruitment, employment and repatriation of Nepali workers with the status of residence of SSW. On the basis of the agreement, Japan is planning to take Nepal migrant workers to work in 14 sectors including industrial, nursing, construction and sanitation. As per the Japanese plan, a total of 345,150 workers are expected to be flown in the first five years which includes 60,000 nurses and 53,000 workers for restaurants. All those workers will flow to Japan from Nepal as per the South Korean model and they will be paid a minimum salary of Nepal rs. 200,000 per months after they match the eligibility criteria. Nepal had proposed to send workers to Japan through the government during the discussion between the technical teams of the two countries on January 16 to decide the process for sending workers. Japan will take those workers from Nepal, Vietnam, China, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia and Mongolia. Japan has already implemented a new visa system to take migrant workers.

Nepal, Japan ink labour agreement

Japanese exports declined for the third straight month in February while imports also fell, according to government data Monday, indicating a possible slowdown in the world's third-biggest economy.

Exports slipped 1.2 per cent from a year earlier to 6.38 trillion yen ($57 billion) and imports declined even more sharply -- by 6.7 per cent to 6.05 trillion yen.

"Concerns remain for the immediate future given worries over the global economy and weak demand in the IT sector," Asuka Sakamoto, an economist at Mizuho Research Institute, told AFP.

The weak import figure is also a source of concern as it may reflect declining orders for companies as they reduce production domestically, added Sakamoto.

Analysts will be closely watching export and corporate investment data for further clues on the economy's health, she said.

Exports to China increased 5.5 per cent while imports dropped 15.8 per cent, as imports declined of clothes, metal products and parts for audiovisual products.

Japan's politically sensitive surplus with the United States slipped 0.9 per cent from a year earlier to 624.9 billion yen.

With the European Union, Japan logged a 58.2 billion yen surplus.

Overall, the country logged a 339 billion yen trade surplus in February, the first surplus for five months.

Japanese exports declined for the third straight month in February while imports also fell, according to government data Monday, indicating a possible slowdown in the world's third-biggest economy.

Japanese exports declined for the third straight month in February while imports also fell, according to government data Monday, indicating a possible slowdown in the world's third-biggest economy. Exports slipped 1.2 per cent from a year earlier to 6.38 trillion yen ($57 billion) and imports declined even more sharply -- by 6.7 per cent to 6.05 trillion yen. "Concerns remain for the immediate future given worries over the global economy and weak demand in the IT sector," Asuka Sakamoto, an economist at Mizuho Research Institute, told AFP. The weak import figure is also a source of concern as it may reflect declining orders for companies as they reduce production domestically, added Sakamoto. Analysts will be closely watching export and corporate investment data for further clues on the economy's health, she said. Exports to China increased 5.5 per cent while imports dropped 15.8 per cent, as imports declined of clothes, metal products and parts for audiovisual products. Japan's politically sensitive surplus with the United States slipped 0.9 per cent from a year earlier to 624.9 billion yen. With the European Union, Japan logged a 58.2 billion yen surplus. Overall, the country logged a 339 billion yen trade surplus in February, the first surplus for five months.

Japan's exports decline for third straight month

A social media campaign against employers forcing women to wear high heels to work has been picking up the pace in Japan, drawing support from tens of thousands of people, including more than 15,000 signatures in an online petition Thursday.

Yumi Ishikawa, a 32-year-old actress and model, involuntarily started the protest movement by tweeting a message in late January about suffering from wearing heels every day, which has received around 100,000 likes or retweets.&nbsp;

“I want to lose the custom that a woman must wear heels and pumps at work someday... Why do I have to work while my feet hurt,” she tweeted.

Following the huge wave of support, she created the hashtag #KuToo - a mixture of "kutsu" (shoe in Japanese) and "kutsuu" (pain), and a play on the universal #MeToo movement.

Many women responded with messages illustrating their own experiences and expressing similar complaints, with some of them even posting pictures of sores on their feet caused by daily use of heels.

Ishikawa then started a petition on Change.org with the aim of getting support against firms differentiating between genders while establishing rules of etiquette for its employees, and ending the custom of women having to wear high heels due to their detrimental impact on health and productivity.&nbsp;

The campaign started a week ago, has received a promising response from the public with more than 15,000 signatures – well on its way to the target of 25,000.

Most companies and public organizations in Japan have a dress code requiring its employees to wear a suit and dark-coloured shoes for men, and skirts and heels for women.

However, a growing number of firms of public entities are relaxing the norms for its employees on grounds of comfort, following initiatives such as those set out by the authorities in Tokyo allowing employees to do away with jackets and ties during the summer and even letting them wear sneakers.

The global #MeToo movement went viral from October 2017 as a hashtag on social media in an attempt to demonstrate the prevalence of sexual assault and harassment, especially in the workplace.

A social media campaign against employers forcing women to wear high heels to work has been picking up the pace in Japan, drawing support from tens of thousands of people, including more than 15,000 signatures in an online petition Thursday.

A social media campaign against employers forcing women to wear high heels to work has been picking up the pace in Japan, drawing support from tens of thousands of people, including more than 15,000 signatures in an online petition Thursday. Yumi Ishikawa, a 32-year-old actress and model, involuntarily started the protest movement by tweeting a message in late January about suffering from wearing heels every day, which has received around 100,000 likes or retweets. “I want to lose the custom that a woman must wear heels and pumps at work someday... Why do I have to work while my feet hurt,” she tweeted. Following the huge wave of support, she created the hashtag #KuToo - a mixture of "kutsu" (shoe in Japanese) and "kutsuu" (pain), and a play on the universal #MeToo movement. Many women responded with messages illustrating their own experiences and expressing similar complaints, with some of them even posting pictures of sores on their feet caused by daily use of heels. Ishikawa then started a petition on Change.org with the aim of getting support against firms differentiating between genders while establishing rules of etiquette for its employees, and ending the custom of women having to wear high heels due to their detrimental impact on health and productivity. The campaign started a week ago, has received a promising response from the public with more than 15,000 signatures – well on its way to the target of 25,000. Most companies and public organizations in Japan have a dress code requiring its employees to wear a suit and dark-coloured shoes for men, and skirts and heels for women. However, a growing number of firms of public entities are relaxing the norms for its employees on grounds of comfort, following initiatives such as those set out by the authorities in Tokyo allowing employees to do away with jackets and ties during the summer and even letting them wear sneakers. The global #MeToo movement went viral from October 2017 as a hashtag on social media in an attempt to demonstrate the prevalence of sexual assault and harassment, especially in the workplace.

Japanese women mobilise online against having to wear high heels to work

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/carlos-ghosn-out-on-bail-will-be-under-strict-monitoring-202032">Former Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn</a> is seeking court permission to attend a board meeting at the Japanese automaker while out on bail, local media reported Monday.

Ghosn wants to attend a Tuesday meeting at the company's headquarters in the city of Yokohama, Kyodo news agency reported, citing one of his lawyers.

The office of Ghosn's lead lawyer Junichiro Hironaka declined to comment.

Nissan said it could not confirm that Ghosn was seeking to attend the meeting but that it would be "for the court to decide" whether its former chief could be present.

Several Japanese newspapers also reported that Ghosn would seek to attend the meeting.

Nissan removed Ghosn as chief shortly after his shock November 19 arrest, but he cannot be officially removed from his seat on the board without a shareholder meeting.

The company has scheduled one for April 8, but Ghosn retains the right to attend board meetings until then.

But he must also obtain the court's approval, which may prove challenging given the stringent measures that govern his release on bail.&nbsp;

Under the terms of his release, he is forbidden from contacting people who could be involved in his case, including Nissan executives likely to attend board meetings, such as CEO Hiroto Saikawa.

Ghosn, who paid nearly $9 million in bail money, must also live in a residence that is monitored from the outside by camera, and can only access a non-internet connected computer at his lawyer's office.

The 65-year-old was released on bail on March 6 after more than 100 days in detention.

He faces three charges of financial misconduct over allegations he under-reported his compensation and sought to transfer personal losses to Nissan's books.

Former Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn is seeking court permission to attend a board meeting at the Japanese automaker while out on bail, local media reported Monday. Ghosn wants to attend a Tuesday meeting at the company's headquarters in the city of Yokohama, Kyodo news agency reported, citing one of his lawyers.

Former Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn is seeking court permission to attend a board meeting at the Japanese automaker while out on bail, local media reported Monday. Ghosn wants to attend a Tuesday meeting at the company's headquarters in the city of Yokohama, Kyodo news agency reported, citing one of his lawyers. The office of Ghosn's lead lawyer Junichiro Hironaka declined to comment. Nissan said it could not confirm that Ghosn was seeking to attend the meeting but that it would be "for the court to decide" whether its former chief could be present. Several Japanese newspapers also reported that Ghosn would seek to attend the meeting. Nissan removed Ghosn as chief shortly after his shock November 19 arrest, but he cannot be officially removed from his seat on the board without a shareholder meeting. The company has scheduled one for April 8, but Ghosn retains the right to attend board meetings until then. But he must also obtain the court's approval, which may prove challenging given the stringent measures that govern his release on bail. Under the terms of his release, he is forbidden from contacting people who could be involved in his case, including Nissan executives likely to attend board meetings, such as CEO Hiroto Saikawa. Ghosn, who paid nearly $9 million in bail money, must also live in a residence that is monitored from the outside by camera, and can only access a non-internet connected computer at his lawyer's office. The 65-year-old was released on bail on March 6 after more than 100 days in detention. He faces three charges of financial misconduct over allegations he under-reported his compensation and sought to transfer personal losses to Nissan's books.

Carlos Ghosn wants to attend Nissan board meeting: Report

At least 87 passengers in a high-speed ferry were injured in an apparent collision with a marine animal in the sea of Japan on Saturday, coastguards and media said.

Five people were seriously injured in the accident, which occurred just before the hydrofoil was due to arrive on Sado island after a short trip from the mainland, the Japan Coast Guard said.

It is likely the ferry hit a whale, as both humpbacks and minkes are often found in the area, public broadcaster NHK quoted a marine wildlife expert as saying.

"It was a huge impact," a passenger told public broadcaster NHK. "One person was bleeding."

There was damage to the back of the vessel, local media said, but the ferry -- with 121 passengers and four crew on board -- reached its destination without outside help, local media said.

At least 87 passengers in a high-speed ferry were injured in an apparent collision with a marine animal in the sea of Japan on Saturday, coastguards and media said.

At least 87 passengers in a high-speed ferry were injured in an apparent collision with a marine animal in the sea of Japan on Saturday, coastguards and media said. Five people were seriously injured in the accident, which occurred just before the hydrofoil was due to arrive on Sado island after a short trip from the mainland, the Japan Coast Guard said. It is likely the ferry hit a whale, as both humpbacks and minkes are often found in the area, public broadcaster NHK quoted a marine wildlife expert as saying. "It was a huge impact," a passenger told public broadcaster NHK. "One person was bleeding." There was damage to the back of the vessel, local media said, but the ferry -- with 121 passengers and four crew on board -- reached its destination without outside help, local media said.

At least 87 injured after boat collides with 'marine creature' in Japan

A 116-year-old Japanese woman who still enjoys studying math and playing board games has been recognised as the world's oldest person, the Guinness World Records said Saturday.

Kane Tanaka was born on 2 January 1903, the year when the Wright brothers launched humanity's first powered flight, according to Guinness.

Tanaka's recognition was celebrated at the nursing home where she lives in western Japan's Fukuoka by city mayor Soichiro Takashima and other well-wishers.

Asked what moment she was the most happy in life, she replied: "Now."

She married Hideo Tanaka in 1922, giving birth to four children and adopting a fifth.

Kane normally wakes each morning at 6 am and passes the afternoons by studying mathematics and practicing calligraphy.&nbsp;

"One of Kane's favourite pastimes is a game of Othello and she's become an expert at the classic board game, often beating rest-home staff," Guinness said.

Japan has one of the world's highest life expectancies and has been home to several people recognised as among the oldest humans to have ever lived.

They include Jiroemon Kimura, the longest-living man on record, who died soon after his 116th birthday in June 2013.

The oldest verified person ever -- Jeanne Louise Calment of France -- died in 1997 at the age of 122, according to Guinness.

A 116-year-old Japanese woman who still enjoys studying math and playing board games has been recognised as the world's oldest person, the Guinness World Records said Saturday.

A 116-year-old Japanese woman who still enjoys studying math and playing board games has been recognised as the world's oldest person, the Guinness World Records said Saturday. Kane Tanaka was born on 2 January 1903, the year when the Wright brothers launched humanity's first powered flight, according to Guinness. Tanaka's recognition was celebrated at the nursing home where she lives in western Japan's Fukuoka by city mayor Soichiro Takashima and other well-wishers. Asked what moment she was the most happy in life, she replied: "Now." She married Hideo Tanaka in 1922, giving birth to four children and adopting a fifth. Kane normally wakes each morning at 6 am and passes the afternoons by studying mathematics and practicing calligraphy. "One of Kane's favourite pastimes is a game of Othello and she's become an expert at the classic board game, often beating rest-home staff," Guinness said. Japan has one of the world's highest life expectancies and has been home to several people recognised as among the oldest humans to have ever lived. They include Jiroemon Kimura, the longest-living man on record, who died soon after his 116th birthday in June 2013. The oldest verified person ever -- Jeanne Louise Calment of France -- died in 1997 at the age of 122, according to Guinness.

Japanese woman confirmed as world's oldest person at 116

Eight years after the Fukushima nuclear meltdown in Japan, radioactive particles collected from the site are undergoing new forensic investigation in Britain in an effort to understand the exact sequence of events.

A 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck on March 11, 2011, off the Japanese coast, triggering a tsunami that killed some 18,000 people and the world`s worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl in 1986. Meltdowns at three of the Fukushima Daiichi plant`s six reactors spewed radiation into the air, soil and ocean, forcing over 100,000 residents to flee. Many have still not returned.

The Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) is currently collaborating with British researchers to learn more about the state of the radioactive particles created by the meltdown.

Dr Yukihiko Satou from the JAEA oversaw the transportation of particles collected from within the restricted zone, very close to the disaster site, to Britain. 
"The particles were fundamentally extracted from those attached to soil, dust and debris," Satou told Reuters.

Encased in protective tape, the samples were brought to the Diamond Light Source, Britain`s national synchrotron, or cyclic particle accelerator, near Oxford.&nbsp;

Here electrons are accelerated to near light speeds until they emit light 10 billion times brighter than the sun, then directed into laboratories in `beamlines` which allow scientists to study minute specimens in extreme detail.

Researchers have created a 3D map of a radioactive sample using the synchrotron, allowing them to see the distribution of elements within the sample. 
Understanding the current state of these particles and how they behave in the environment could ultimately determine if and when the area could be declared safe for people to return.

The head of the team leading the analysis, Tom Scott of Bristol University, said the particles have a structure like a pumice, a very light, porous volcanic rock.

"Studying... this glassy matrix tells us how available within the environment they are," he said.

The British and Japanese governments have awarded funding to the research team to examine larger particles closer to the site of the meltdown at Fukushima to better define radiation risk in the surrounding area.

The research could have significance beyond nuclear accidents, the team said, because the techniques employed could also be used to image particles in air pollution to better understand the risk they pose to human health.

Eight years after the Fukushima nuclear meltdown in Japan, radioactive particles collected from the site are undergoing new forensic investigation in Britain in an effort to understand the exact sequence of events.

Eight years after the Fukushima nuclear meltdown in Japan, radioactive particles collected from the site are undergoing new forensic investigation in Britain in an effort to understand the exact sequence of events. A 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck on March 11, 2011, off the Japanese coast, triggering a tsunami that killed some 18,000 people and the world`s worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl in 1986. Meltdowns at three of the Fukushima Daiichi plant`s six reactors spewed radiation into the air, soil and ocean, forcing over 100,000 residents to flee. Many have still not returned. The Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) is currently collaborating with British researchers to learn more about the state of the radioactive particles created by the meltdown. Dr Yukihiko Satou from the JAEA oversaw the transportation of particles collected from within the restricted zone, very close to the disaster site, to Britain. "The particles were fundamentally extracted from those attached to soil, dust and debris," Satou told Reuters. Encased in protective tape, the samples were brought to the Diamond Light Source, Britain`s national synchrotron, or cyclic particle accelerator, near Oxford. Here electrons are accelerated to near light speeds until they emit light 10 billion times brighter than the sun, then directed into laboratories in `beamlines` which allow scientists to study minute specimens in extreme detail. Researchers have created a 3D map of a radioactive sample using the synchrotron, allowing them to see the distribution of elements within the sample. Understanding the current state of these particles and how they behave in the environment could ultimately determine if and when the area could be declared safe for people to return. The head of the team leading the analysis, Tom Scott of Bristol University, said the particles have a structure like a pumice, a very light, porous volcanic rock. "Studying... this glassy matrix tells us how available within the environment they are," he said. The British and Japanese governments have awarded funding to the research team to examine larger particles closer to the site of the meltdown at Fukushima to better define radiation risk in the surrounding area. The research could have significance beyond nuclear accidents, the team said, because the techniques employed could also be used to image particles in air pollution to better understand the risk they pose to human health.

UK, Japan scientists study radioactive Fukushima particles

A new <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/former-nissan-chief-carlos-ghosn-leaves-tokyo-jail-on-bail-after-3-and-a-half-month-detention-201557">bail application for Carlos Ghosn</a> includes an offer for him to be monitored by surveillance cameras to ensure he does not flee Japan or tamper with evidence, his lawyer said, according to a report from Dow Jones Newswires supplied to EFE on Monday.&nbsp;

Ghosn, who has been detained by prosecutors since November 19, is determined to win bail after having two earlier applications turned down, Junichiro Hironaka said at a news conference Monday. Ghosn replaced his previous lawyer with Hironaka, who is known for winning several high-profile defence cases in Japan after he was denied bail for the second time in late January.&nbsp;

Hironaka said Ghosn was willing to face the inconvenience of being monitored to earn his release. He did not specify where the cameras would be placed or who would monitor him. The new application was submitted last Thursday. A ruling is likely this week.&nbsp;

Ghosn earlier offered to wear an ankle monitor to limit his movements, but prosecutors said the proposal was irrelevant because Japan does not use such devices.&nbsp;

"We have presented our own convincing application showing there is no flight risk or risk of tampering with evidence," Hironaka said.&nbsp;

Ghosn's case has highlighted long detention periods in Japan, where prosecutors have greater leeway to hold and question suspects than their counterparts in many Western countries.&nbsp;

Prosecutors have charged Ghosn with failing to report more than $80 million in deferred compensation on eight years of Nissan Motor Co.'s financial reports and with causing Nissan to pay a Saudi businessman who helped Ghosn with a personal financial problem. Ghosn was stripped of his title as chairman of Nissan in November.&nbsp;

Ghosn says he is innocent of the charges. In a January court hearing, he called discussions about the compensation "hypothetical" and not subject to reporting rules, and he said the Saudi businessman's company "was appropriately compensated" for "critical services that substantially benefited Nissan."&nbsp;

Hironaka, who is known as "the razor" for his string of past legal victories, said he was confident of winning bail for his client, the Dow Jones report added.&nbsp;

"I'm now 73 years old, but I want to test how sharp the razor still is," he said.

A new bail application for Carlos Ghosn includes an offer for him to be monitored by surveillance cameras to ensure he does not flee Japan or tamper with evidence, his lawyer said, according to a report from Dow Jones Newswires supplied to EFE on Monday.

A new bail application for Carlos Ghosn includes an offer for him to be monitored by surveillance cameras to ensure he does not flee Japan or tamper with evidence, his lawyer said, according to a report from Dow Jones Newswires supplied to EFE on Monday. Ghosn, who has been detained by prosecutors since November 19, is determined to win bail after having two earlier applications turned down, Junichiro Hironaka said at a news conference Monday. Ghosn replaced his previous lawyer with Hironaka, who is known for winning several high-profile defence cases in Japan after he was denied bail for the second time in late January. Hironaka said Ghosn was willing to face the inconvenience of being monitored to earn his release. He did not specify where the cameras would be placed or who would monitor him. The new application was submitted last Thursday. A ruling is likely this week. Ghosn earlier offered to wear an ankle monitor to limit his movements, but prosecutors said the proposal was irrelevant because Japan does not use such devices. "We have presented our own convincing application showing there is no flight risk or risk of tampering with evidence," Hironaka said. Ghosn's case has highlighted long detention periods in Japan, where prosecutors have greater leeway to hold and question suspects than their counterparts in many Western countries. Prosecutors have charged Ghosn with failing to report more than $80 million in deferred compensation on eight years of Nissan Motor Co.'s financial reports and with causing Nissan to pay a Saudi businessman who helped Ghosn with a personal financial problem. Ghosn was stripped of his title as chairman of Nissan in November. Ghosn says he is innocent of the charges. In a January court hearing, he called discussions about the compensation "hypothetical" and not subject to reporting rules, and he said the Saudi businessman's company "was appropriately compensated" for "critical services that substantially benefited Nissan." Hironaka, who is known as "the razor" for his string of past legal victories, said he was confident of winning bail for his client, the Dow Jones report added. "I'm now 73 years old, but I want to test how sharp the razor still is," he said.

Former Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn offers to accept camera surveillance in bid for bail

Washington's North Korea envoy Stephen Biegun was to meet Wednesday with officials from Japan and South Korea to discuss the outcome of the Hanoi summit last week, amid new evidence that Pyongyang is rebuilding a rocket launch site.

Biegun was to meet separately in Washington with Lee Do-hoon, Seoul's chief nuclear envoy, and Japan's Kenji Kanasugi, with a three-way meeting also expected, according to the US State Department.

Their talks take place after US President Donald Trump abruptly cut short the February 27-28 summit in Vietnam with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un amid fundamental differences between the two sides over dismantling North Korea's nuclear weapons program.

The summit, their second in under a year, broke up without even a joint statement, and each sought to blame the other's intransigence for the deadlock.

Both sides pledged to continue talking, but no new meetings have been scheduled.

State Department Spokesman Robert Palladino declined Tuesday to say whether contacts between Washington and Pyongyang have resumed since the summit.

On Monday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he hopes to be able to send a team to Pyongyang in "the next couple weeks," while acknowledging there had been no commitment from Pyongyang on resuming talks.&nbsp;

The US, Japan and South Korea were confronted with a fresh challenge when new photographs released Tuesday appeared to show that Pyongyang may be pursuing the "rapid rebuilding" of a long-range rocket site at Sohae, after having pulled back nuclear-related activity.

The Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies said the renewed activity, recorded two days after the summit, may "demonstrate resolve in the face of US rejection" of the North's request for an easing of sanctions.

The site, dormant since August 2018, "has been used in the past for satellite launches, which use ICBM technology banned under UN Security Council resolutions," CSIS said.

The State Department declined to address the reports Wednesday.

Washington's North Korea envoy Stephen Biegun was to meet Wednesday with officials from Japan and South Korea to discuss the outcome of the Hanoi summit last week, amid new evidence that Pyongyang is rebuilding a rocket launch site.

Washington's North Korea envoy Stephen Biegun was to meet Wednesday with officials from Japan and South Korea to discuss the outcome of the Hanoi summit last week, amid new evidence that Pyongyang is rebuilding a rocket launch site. Biegun was to meet separately in Washington with Lee Do-hoon, Seoul's chief nuclear envoy, and Japan's Kenji Kanasugi, with a three-way meeting also expected, according to the US State Department. Their talks take place after US President Donald Trump abruptly cut short the February 27-28 summit in Vietnam with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un amid fundamental differences between the two sides over dismantling North Korea's nuclear weapons program. The summit, their second in under a year, broke up without even a joint statement, and each sought to blame the other's intransigence for the deadlock. Both sides pledged to continue talking, but no new meetings have been scheduled. State Department Spokesman Robert Palladino declined Tuesday to say whether contacts between Washington and Pyongyang have resumed since the summit. On Monday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he hopes to be able to send a team to Pyongyang in "the next couple weeks," while acknowledging there had been no commitment from Pyongyang on resuming talks. The US, Japan and South Korea were confronted with a fresh challenge when new photographs released Tuesday appeared to show that Pyongyang may be pursuing the "rapid rebuilding" of a long-range rocket site at Sohae, after having pulled back nuclear-related activity. The Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies said the renewed activity, recorded two days after the summit, may "demonstrate resolve in the face of US rejection" of the North's request for an easing of sanctions. The site, dormant since August 2018, "has been used in the past for satellite launches, which use ICBM technology banned under UN Security Council resolutions," CSIS said. The State Department declined to address the reports Wednesday.

US, North Korea envoy in talks after Pyongyang rocket site work revealed

Japan has given the green light to a controversial research process involving implanting animals with human stem cells that could eventually help grow human organs for transplant inside animal hosts.

The decision by the education and science ministry Friday to revise its guidelines means Japanese researchers can now apply for permits to carry out studies employing the technique, a ministry official told AFP.

The process involves implanting embryonic animals, likely first pigs, with human "induced pluripotent stem" (iPS) cells, which can transform into the building blocks of any part of the body.

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The idea is for the iPS cells to grow into transplantable human organs inside the animal embryos.

Japan had previously required researchers to terminate animal embryos implanted with human cells after 14 days "due to ethical concerns over the vague line between human beings and animals," the official said.

The old regulations also prevented researchers from placing the embryos into animal wombs to allow them to develop.

But the ministry has dropped both restrictions "as we have concluded that there is technically zero risks of producing a new organism mixing human and animal elements under the research," the official added.

Researchers will now, for instance, be allowed to create animal embryos with a human pancreas and transplant it into the womb of a pig, which could, in theory, result in the birth of a baby pig with a human pancreas.

In practice, where similar research has been carried elsewhere, the embryos have been terminated before delivery, avoiding the thorny moral issues raised by creating creatures that contain both human and animal cells.

Research involving the hybrids sometimes called "chimeras" -- after the monster in Greek mythology with a lion's head, goat's body and dragon's tail -- has been controversial elsewhere too.

Ethical questions have been raised about the status of animals containing human cells, and whether human iPS cells implanted into animals could develop into brain matter or reproductive organs.

But a shortage of transplantable human organs means researchers around the world are racing to create mixed human-animal embryos.

Japan has given the green light to a controversial research process involving implanting animals with human stem cells that could eventually help grow human organs for transplant inside animal hosts.

Japan has given the green light to a controversial research process involving implanting animals with human stem cells that could eventually help grow human organs for transplant inside animal hosts. The decision by the education and science ministry Friday to revise its guidelines means Japanese researchers can now apply for permits to carry out studies employing the technique, a ministry official told AFP. The process involves implanting embryonic animals, likely first pigs, with human "induced pluripotent stem" (iPS) cells, which can transform into the building blocks of any part of the body. The process involves implanting embryonic animals, likely first pigs, with human 'induced pluripotent stem' (iPS) cells, which can transform into the building blocks of any part of the body × The idea is for the iPS cells to grow into transplantable human organs inside the animal embryos. Japan had previously required researchers to terminate animal embryos implanted with human cells after 14 days "due to ethical concerns over the vague line between human beings and animals," the official said. The old regulations also prevented researchers from placing the embryos into animal wombs to allow them to develop. But the ministry has dropped both restrictions "as we have concluded that there is technically zero risks of producing a new organism mixing human and animal elements under the research," the official added. Researchers will now, for instance, be allowed to create animal embryos with a human pancreas and transplant it into the womb of a pig, which could, in theory, result in the birth of a baby pig with a human pancreas. In practice, where similar research has been carried elsewhere, the embryos have been terminated before delivery, avoiding the thorny moral issues raised by creating creatures that contain both human and animal cells. Research involving the hybrids sometimes called "chimeras" -- after the monster in Greek mythology with a lion's head, goat's body and dragon's tail -- has been controversial elsewhere too. Ethical questions have been raised about the status of animals containing human cells, and whether human iPS cells implanted into animals could develop into brain matter or reproductive organs. But a shortage of transplantable human organs means researchers around the world are racing to create mixed human-animal embryos.

Japan okays research using human cells in animals

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Thursday he fully backed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-deal-with-kim-thwarted-by-north-korean-sanction-demands-200231">US President Donald Trump`s decision</a> to end his summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un without an agreement.&nbsp;

"I fully support President Trump`s decision not to make the easy choice," Abe said following a telephone call with Trump.

"I am determined that I must meet Chairman Kim next," he added, reiterating his desire to have a summit with the North Korean leader.

Abe said Trump, at his meeting with Kim in Vietnam, had raised the issue of Japanese citizens abducted by North Koreans agents.&nbsp;

Abe has said Japan would not normalise diplomatic ties with Pyongyang or provide economic assistance until North Korea gave a full accounting of all those taken and return any abductees who are still alive.&nbsp;

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Thursday he fully backed US President Donald Trump`s decision to end his summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un without an agreement.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Thursday he fully backed US President Donald Trump`s decision to end his summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un without an agreement. "I fully support President Trump`s decision not to make the easy choice," Abe said following a telephone call with Trump. "I am determined that I must meet Chairman Kim next," he added, reiterating his desire to have a summit with the North Korean leader. Abe said Trump, at his meeting with Kim in Vietnam, had raised the issue of Japanese citizens abducted by North Koreans agents. Abe has said Japan would not normalise diplomatic ties with Pyongyang or provide economic assistance until North Korea gave a full accounting of all those taken and return any abductees who are still alive.

Japanese PM Abe says fully backs Trump over North Korea no deal

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