A Japanese hygiene products maker started selling the world's first "horizontally" recycled disposable baby diapers at shopping centres on Saturday (April 20), Japanese media reported.&nbsp;

The company, Unicharm Corp, worked on the concept of "horizontal recycling", which is a form of recycling where products at the end of their lifecycle are used as material in the creation of similar products.&nbsp;

Media reports mentioned that after collecting the diapers, the company ground and washed them first, and then the materials were separated.&nbsp;

In the next process, the company treated&nbsp;the clean materials with ozone to reduce bacteria and odour, after which they were made into diapers.&nbsp;

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Kyodo News reported that the company has collaborated with two local governments in Kagoshima Prefecture for the recycling process.&nbsp;

The firm started manufacturing recycled adult diapers in 2022. At first, such recycled diapers were provided to hospitals and care homes for the elderly.&nbsp;

"We would like to transform a resource-intensive standard to a cyclical one. We have received approval from experts concerning the hygiene" of the diapers, senior executive officer of Unicharm, Tsutomu Kido, said as quoted by Kyodo News.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/columbia-university-shifts-to-virtual-classes-following-on-campus-arrests-amid-anti-israel-protests-713938">Columbia University shifts to virtual classes following on-campus arrests amid anti-Israel protests</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Japan's plummeting birth rate&nbsp;</h2>

Japan is currently struggling with the issue of a plummeting birth rate, which recently forced a diaper manufacturer to stop making them for babies. Instead, the company ramped up production for adults.&nbsp;

In March, Oji Holdings said that it would wrap up domestic output of infant diapers in September after a massive drop in production. In 2001, there was a peak of around 700 million annually, which&nbsp;dropped to 400 million till last month.&nbsp;

"Demand for baby diapers is decreasing because of factors including the falling birth rate," a spokesman told the news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The number of births in Japan dropped to a new low in 2023, with more than twice as many deaths as new babies.

The births in 2023 fell for the eighth consecutive year to 758,631, a drop of 5.1 per cent, preliminary data showed in February. The number of deaths stood at 1,590,503.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A Japanese hygiene products maker started selling the world's first "horizontally" recycled disposable baby diapers at shopping centres on Saturday (April 20), Japanese media reported.

A Japanese hygiene products maker started selling the world's first "horizontally" recycled disposable baby diapers at shopping centres on Saturday (April 20), Japanese media reported. The company, Unicharm Corp, worked on the concept of "horizontal recycling", which is a form of recycling where products at the end of their lifecycle are used as material in the creation of similar products. Media reports mentioned that after collecting the diapers, the company ground and washed them first, and then the materials were separated. In the next process, the company treated the clean materials with ozone to reduce bacteria and odour, after which they were made into diapers. Also read: Beirut turns into cancer hotspot as Lebanon fails to curb use of diesel generators Kyodo News reported that the company has collaborated with two local governments in Kagoshima Prefecture for the recycling process. The firm started manufacturing recycled adult diapers in 2022. At first, such recycled diapers were provided to hospitals and care homes for the elderly. "We would like to transform a resource-intensive standard to a cyclical one. We have received approval from experts concerning the hygiene" of the diapers, senior executive officer of Unicharm, Tsutomu Kido, said as quoted by Kyodo News. Also read: Columbia University shifts to virtual classes following on-campus arrests amid anti-Israel protests Japan's plummeting birth rate Japan is currently struggling with the issue of a plummeting birth rate, which recently forced a diaper manufacturer to stop making them for babies. Instead, the company ramped up production for adults. In March, Oji Holdings said that it would wrap up domestic output of infant diapers in September after a massive drop in production. In 2001, there was a peak of around 700 million annually, which dropped to 400 million till last month. "Demand for baby diapers is decreasing because of factors including the falling birth rate," a spokesman told the news agency AFP. The number of births in Japan dropped to a new low in 2023, with more than twice as many deaths as new babies. The births in 2023 fell for the eighth consecutive year to 758,631, a drop of 5.1 per cent, preliminary data showed in February. The number of deaths stood at 1,590,503. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, Japan launches 'horizontally recycled' diapers. What is it?

North Korea fired a ballistic missile on Monday (April 22) towards the sea off its east coast, South Korea's military said in an official statement. The Japanese coast guard issued an alert and said North Korea had fired what appeared to be a ballistic missile.&nbsp;

The NHK broadcaster said that the projectile appeared to have landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone.

The two countries' governments did not immediately provide any further details.

North Korea claimed last week that it test-launched a strategic cruise missile to test an unnamed large warhead and a new anti-aircraft missile. The development comes amid growing Chinese belligerence around Japanese waters as well as larger maritime tensions in East Asia, largely attributed to Beijing's spree of maritime expansionism.&nbsp;

Pyongyang's missile programmes are clandestinely supported by Beijing. The West claims that Moscow's support for North Korea's missile programme has been crucial to its defence posture in the region vis-a-vis American presence in the region.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, North Korea fired a new hypersonic missile as part of its development of solid-fuelled missiles for all ranges of its arsenal.&nbsp;

Pyongyang openly defies a ban imposed by the United Nations Security Council on developing ballistic missiles. North Korea considers international objections against its missile programmes as an infringement of its sovereign right to defend itself.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fired a ballistic missile on Monday (April 22) towards the sea off its east coast, South Korea's military said in an official statement. The Japanese coast guard issued an alert and said North Korea had fired what appeared to be a ballistic missile.

North Korea fired a ballistic missile on Monday (April 22) towards the sea off its east coast, South Korea's military said in an official statement. The Japanese coast guard issued an alert and said North Korea had fired what appeared to be a ballistic missile. The NHK broadcaster said that the projectile appeared to have landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone. The two countries' governments did not immediately provide any further details. North Korea claimed last week that it test-launched a strategic cruise missile to test an unnamed large warhead and a new anti-aircraft missile. The development comes amid growing Chinese belligerence around Japanese waters as well as larger maritime tensions in East Asia, largely attributed to Beijing's spree of maritime expansionism. Pyongyang's missile programmes are clandestinely supported by Beijing. The West claims that Moscow's support for North Korea's missile programme has been crucial to its defence posture in the region vis-a-vis American presence in the region. Earlier this month, North Korea fired a new hypersonic missile as part of its development of solid-fuelled missiles for all ranges of its arsenal. Pyongyang openly defies a ban imposed by the United Nations Security Council on developing ballistic missiles. North Korea considers international objections against its missile programmes as an infringement of its sovereign right to defend itself. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan issues alert after North Korea fires ballistic missile towards East Sea

The Japanese military on Sunday (Apr 21) confirmed seven people missing after two military helicopters crashed on Saturday, the news agency AFP reported. The two SH-60K helicopters, belonging to the Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) were each carrying four people on board.

The Japanese military on Sunday (Apr 21) confirmed seven people missing after two military helicopters crashed on Saturday, the news agency AFP reported. The two SH-60K helicopters, belonging to the Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) were each carrying four people on board. Addressing a press conference, Defence Minister Minoru Kihara told reporters that rescuers "spotted what are believed to be parts of the aircraft in the sea." Defence Minister Kihara said that the cause of the crash was unknown, adding the helicopters were doing drills to counter submarines at night. Meanwhile, a military spokesperson told AFP that one of the eight people on board had been rescued, but the person died. Search for missing people on A report by Japanese broadcaster NHK said that a search for the seven missing people was on. Defence ministry officials said that communication with one of the helicopters was lost off Torishima Island at around 10.38 pm local time, and one minute later an emergency signal was received from this chopper. The officials added that 25 minutes after this, they realised that communication with the other aircraft was also lost in the same area. The MSDF said that there were no other aircraft or vessels in nearby waters, and involvement of another country in the incident was unlikely. Previous incidents In April last year, a Japanese army helicopter with 10 people on board crashed off Miyako island in southern Okinawa. There were no survivors. In January 2022, a Japanese fighter jet crashed in waters off the central Ishikawa region, killing two pilots on board. In 2019, an F-35A stealth jet crashed into the sea after taking off from northeastern Japan on a training mission, killing the pilot.

Japan confirms one person dead, seven missing after two military helicopters crash

Watch Headlines of the hour: - 2 Japanese Defence choppers crash - US 'poised' to sanction IDF unit - Israel to summon Pro-Palestine envoys - Maldives Elections 2024: Voting underway - US house passes $95 billion aid bill - Kyiv praises, Moscow condemns aid move

2 Japanese Defence choppers crash | Israel to summon Pro-Palestine envoys

Two Japanese navy helicopters have crashed into the Pacific Ocean during a night-time training flight after a possible mid-air collision, killing at least one of the eight crew members on board. Watch in for more details!

Two Japanese naval choppers crash into sea, one dead

Two Japanese Maritime self-defense Force Choppers have reportedly crashed off the islands southern coast as reported by Japanese defense minister Minoru Kihara. The two SH-60 Choppers carrying four crew members each lost contract late Saturday around 10:30 p.m. local time near Tori-Shima island. Watch in for more details!

2 Japanese Navy choppers crash into sea, 1 dead, 7 personnel missing | Rescue & search ops underway

Japan's central bank "very likely" will raise interest rates if underlying inflation continues to go up, and begin reducing its bond buying at some point in the future.

Japan | UEDA: Rate hike likely if inflation continues to go up

In this exciting episode of 'Wings,' we dive into the vibrant celebrations of Songkran, the Thai New Year festival. Join us as we take you to the streets of Bangkok, where revellers engage in the world's biggest water fight, marking the start of the traditional New Year celebrations. Experience the joy and energy of this beloved festival that lasts for several days, blending tradition with lively revelry. Next, we explore the spring harvest festivals in India, including Baisakhi in Punjab and Bihu in Assam. Witness the colourful festivities and cultural richness of these celebrations that showcase the diverse heritage of India. Then, we travel to Japan to witness the breathtaking cherry blossom season, known as Sakura. Experience the beauty of Japan as streets are painted in hues of pink and white, symbolizing new beginnings and the arrival of spring. Join us on this exhilarating journey as 'Wings' explores the cultural richness and vibrant traditions of Songkran, the spring harvest festivals of India, and the mesmerizing cherry blossoms of Japan.

Songkran Water Festival, Indian Spring Harvest Festivals, Cherry Blossoms in Japan

The US Geological Survey said that an earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.3 struck off southwestern Japan on Wednesday night (Apr 17). Meanwhile, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said that the magnitude was 6.4. So far no major damage has been reported. The authorities also didn't issue tsunami warnings.&nbsp;

The USGS stated that the epicentre of the quake was in a channel that separates the islands of Kyushu and Shikoku, which is about 18 kilometres west of Uwajima. It was at a depth of about 25 kilometres. However, the authorities have urged the public to be vigilant for aftershocks.&nbsp;

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Notable quake, preliminary info: M 6.3 - 17 km WSW of Uwajima, Japan <a href="https://t.co/pburoxZ413">https://t.co/pburoxZ413</a>
— USGS Earthquakes (@USGS_Quakes) <a href="https://twitter.com/USGS_Quakes/status/1780605894738547007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Strong quake hits western Japan 
A magnitude 6.4 earthquake has struck western Japan. 
Officials say there is no Tsunami threat.<a href="https://t.co/hlz8V7jCYh">https://t.co/hlz8V7jCYh</a> <a href="https://t.co/32Qg3zzFYD">pic.twitter.com/32Qg3zzFYD</a>
— ＮＨＫ生活・防災 (@nhk_seikatsu) <a href="https://twitter.com/nhk_seikatsu/status/1780610061951443090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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On social media platform X, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said: "In areas where the jolt was strong, please don't approach any dangerous areas. There is no risk of tsunami caused by this earthquake."&nbsp;

The epicentre of the earthquake was the Bungo Channel, a strait separating the Japanese islands of Kyushu and Shikoku, the agency said, adding that no tsunami warning had been issued.&nbsp;

Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority said the Ikata nuclear power plant in the area was operating as normal. It said, "No abnormalities have been detected at the Ikata power plant. and the operation is continuing."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-uaes-flash-floods-result-of-cloud-seeding-712244">Were UAE’s flash floods result of cloud seeding?</a>&nbsp;

While speaking on the situation, government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi said that there were no tsunami warnings or abnormalities at any power plants. Meanwhile, the authorities were probing whether or not the quake caused any damage.&nbsp;

"We will do everything we can to respond," Hayashi said.&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency AFP, a fisherman from the Ehime region told broadcaster NHK: "I was about to go to bed when I felt the rumbling and knew a quake was coming. Then I felt the kind of jolt that I've never experienced in my life, and it kept shaking for 10 or 20 seconds."&nbsp;

"I was a bit panicky," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The US Geological Survey said that an earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.3 struck off southwestern Japan on Wednesday night (Apr 17). Meanwhile, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said that the magnitude was 6.

The US Geological Survey said that an earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.3 struck off southwestern Japan on Wednesday night (Apr 17). Meanwhile, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said that the magnitude was 6.4. So far no major damage has been reported. The authorities also didn't issue tsunami warnings. The USGS stated that the epicentre of the quake was in a channel that separates the islands of Kyushu and Shikoku, which is about 18 kilometres west of Uwajima. It was at a depth of about 25 kilometres. However, the authorities have urged the public to be vigilant for aftershocks. Also read: Indonesia’s Ruang volcano erupts, forces evacuation of 800 to nearby islands Notable quake, preliminary info: M 6.3 - 17 km WSW of Uwajima, Japan https://t.co/pburoxZ413 — USGS Earthquakes (@USGS_Quakes) April 17, 2024 × Strong quake hits western Japan A magnitude 6.4 earthquake has struck western Japan. Officials say there is no Tsunami threat.https://t.co/hlz8V7jCYh pic.twitter.com/32Qg3zzFYD — ＮＨＫ生活・防災 (@nhk_seikatsu) April 17, 2024 × On social media platform X, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said: "In areas where the jolt was strong, please don't approach any dangerous areas. There is no risk of tsunami caused by this earthquake." The epicentre of the earthquake was the Bungo Channel, a strait separating the Japanese islands of Kyushu and Shikoku, the agency said, adding that no tsunami warning had been issued. Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority said the Ikata nuclear power plant in the area was operating as normal. It said, "No abnormalities have been detected at the Ikata power plant. and the operation is continuing." Also read: Were UAE’s flash floods result of cloud seeding? While speaking on the situation, government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi said that there were no tsunami warnings or abnormalities at any power plants. Meanwhile, the authorities were probing whether or not the quake caused any damage. "We will do everything we can to respond," Hayashi said. As quoted by the news agency AFP, a fisherman from the Ehime region told broadcaster NHK: "I was about to go to bed when I felt the rumbling and knew a quake was coming. Then I felt the kind of jolt that I've never experienced in my life, and it kept shaking for 10 or 20 seconds." "I was a bit panicky," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Earthquake with magnitude of 6.3 hits southern Japan

Japanese business confidence has taken a hit in April, according to a Reuters poll. This follows a decline in the previous month, with sentiment among manufacturers and service sector firms dropping. Rising costs of living and concerns about China's economic health are cited as key factors.

Cost of living, china concerns hurt Japan’s business sentiment

Markets in the region opened mixed after a broad sell-off in the previous session. Traders will now watch trade data out of Japan and Singapore.

Cues to watch today: Japan's trade data

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - 'Operation true promise' revealed - Indonesia's Ruang volcano erupts - Dubai: Heavy rains cause flash floods - Morgan Stanley's profit soars - Scholz urges China to use Russia 'influence'

Japan' business sentiment dips | US, EU to up Iran sanctions

South Korea and Japan are locked in a fresh territorial dispute over a group of small Islets. A fresh territorial row erupted after Japan renewed its claim to the disputed islets controlled by Seoul. Watch in for more details!

Japan claims sovereignty over disputed Island

Japan annual diplomatic report renews claims to Islets Island

The Philippines' foreign secretary has said that Manila will continue to assert its sovereignty in the South China Sea. Speaking at the US State Department Enrique Manalo has accused China of 'escalating' harassment during the meeting.

US reiterates support for Manila while China refutes claims of aggression

As the tensions between China and Philippines over the military outpost in the contested South China Sea rise, China has issued a demand to its neighbor.

<h2>China's message to&nbsp;Philippines</h2>

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, when asked about a recent remark by Philippine President Mao Ning said on Thursday (April 11), said, "The Philippines went back on its word and refuses to tow away the warship illegally grounded at Ren'ai Jiao." Beijing refers to the Second Thomas Shoal as Ren'ai Jiao, while Philippines calls it Ayungin Shoal.

"If the Philippines truly wants to ease tensions...through dialogue and communication, it needs to honour the commitments and understandings and stop provocations," Mao added. She said China's first demand is that the Philippines remove the warship immediately and restore the reef to its original, uninhabited state.

Mao warned, "If the Philippines sends large amounts of construction materials to the warship and attempts to build fixed facilities and a permanent outpost, China will not accept it and will resolutely stop it in accordance with law and regulations." 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuid2jCHDn8lxrua" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="http://wionews.com/world/us-defence-commitments-to-japan-and-philippines-are-ironclad-president-joe-biden-710344" target="_blank">US defence commitments to Japan and Philippines are 'ironclad': President Joe Biden</a>

Pending the towing, Beijing will permit Manila to send "living necessities, out of humanitarianism" to the Sierra Madre, but only if the Philippine side gives advance notice of the supply trips and "after on-site verification is conducted" by China, she added.

<h2>What is causing tensions between China and&nbsp; Philippines?</h2>

In 1999, Manila grounded a warship, the BRP Sierra Madre, to stake its claim on the atoll. China sends ships to confront Philippine convoys supplying marines on the ship. Tensions rise as China accuses convoys of repairing the ship. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr opposes a deal allowing Chinese activities in Philippine waters. "I am horrified by the idea that we have compromised, through a secret agreement, the territory, the sovereignty, and the sovereign rights of the Philippines," he said.

<h2>US, Japan,&nbsp;Philippines trilateral summit</h2>

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden was joined at the White House on Thursday by Philippine Prime Minister Rodrigo Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

The leaders issued a joint statement that read, "We express our serious concerns about the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) dangerous and aggressive behaviour in the South China Sea. We are also concerned by the militarisation of reclaimed features and unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea. We steadfastly oppose the dangerous and coercive use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea, as well as efforts to disrupt other countries’ offshore resource exploitation."

China called this trilateral summit an "anti-China gathering." Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said that the summit was not 'against any country'. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

As the tensions between China and Philippines over the military outpost in the contested South China Sea rise, China has issued a demand to its neighbor. China's message to Philippines Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, when asked about a recent remark by Philippine President Mao Ning said on Thursday (April 11), said, "The Philippines went back on its word and refuses to tow away the warship illegally grounded at Ren'ai Jiao.

As the tensions between China and Philippines over the military outpost in the contested South China Sea rise, China has issued a demand to its neighbor. China's message to Philippines Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, when asked about a recent remark by Philippine President Mao Ning said on Thursday (April 11), said, "The Philippines went back on its word and refuses to tow away the warship illegally grounded at Ren'ai Jiao." Beijing refers to the Second Thomas Shoal as Ren'ai Jiao, while Philippines calls it Ayungin Shoal. "If the Philippines truly wants to ease tensions...through dialogue and communication, it needs to honour the commitments and understandings and stop provocations," Mao added. She said China's first demand is that the Philippines remove the warship immediately and restore the reef to its original, uninhabited state. Mao warned, "If the Philippines sends large amounts of construction materials to the warship and attempts to build fixed facilities and a permanent outpost, China will not accept it and will resolutely stop it in accordance with law and regulations." Also read: US defence commitments to Japan and Philippines are 'ironclad': President Joe Biden Pending the towing, Beijing will permit Manila to send "living necessities, out of humanitarianism" to the Sierra Madre, but only if the Philippine side gives advance notice of the supply trips and "after on-site verification is conducted" by China, she added. What is causing tensions between China and Philippines? In 1999, Manila grounded a warship, the BRP Sierra Madre, to stake its claim on the atoll. China sends ships to confront Philippine convoys supplying marines on the ship. Tensions rise as China accuses convoys of repairing the ship. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr opposes a deal allowing Chinese activities in Philippine waters. "I am horrified by the idea that we have compromised, through a secret agreement, the territory, the sovereignty, and the sovereign rights of the Philippines," he said. US, Japan, Philippines trilateral summit Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden was joined at the White House on Thursday by Philippine Prime Minister Rodrigo Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The leaders issued a joint statement that read, "We express our serious concerns about the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) dangerous and aggressive behaviour in the South China Sea. We are also concerned by the militarisation of reclaimed features and unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea. We steadfastly oppose the dangerous and coercive use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea, as well as efforts to disrupt other countries’ offshore resource exploitation." China called this trilateral summit an "anti-China gathering." Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said that the summit was not 'against any country'. (With inputs from agencies)

China asks Philippines to ‘stop provocations’ if it wants to ‘ease tensions’

China's military aggression and dominance in the Indo-Pacific region have brought together the US, Japan and the Philippines. White House hosted the first trilateral meeting between the leaders of these nations. Keep watching to know more!

US-Japan-Philippines Summit: Biden hosts summit amid growing China provocations

#Gravitas | Will the next major war be in the Indo-Pacific? All signs point to it. Countries that China has angered with its territorial claims are banding together with the U.S. as concerns grow that Beijing will invade Taiwan by mid-century.

China's Expansionism Prompts Navies to Work Closer Together

United States (US) President Joe Biden said on Thursday (Apr 11) that Washington's defence commitments to Japan and the Philippines were "ironclad" as he hosted Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

United States (US) President Joe Biden said on Thursday (Apr 11) that Washington's defence commitments to Japan and the Philippines were "ironclad" as he hosted Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. amid the two countries' territorial disputes with China. In a first-of-its-kind trilateral summit, Biden, Kishida, and Marcos Jr. unveiled a wide range of agreements to enhance security and economic ties. "United States defence commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad," Biden said. South China Sea tops summit agenda Topping the summit's agenda was China's increasing presence in the South China Sea, which has escalated despite a personal appeal by Biden to Chinese President Xi Jinping last year, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Also read | Support from 'indispensable' US vital for Ukraine's survival, Japan PM tells Congress The Philippines and China had several maritime run-ins in March that included the use of water cannons and heated verbal exchanges. These disputes centre on the Second Thomas Shoal, home to a small number of Filipino troops stationed on a warship that Manila grounded there in 1999 to reinforce its sovereignty claims. During Thursday's meeting, Biden affirmed that a 1950s-era mutual defence treaty binding Washington and Manila would require the US to respond to an armed attack on the Philippines in the South China Sea. Japan, meanwhile, has a dispute with China over islands in the East China Sea. Deals struck on defence, AI, space During the summit, deals were struck in the areas of defence, artificial intelligence (AI), space, and other areas. The US and Japan announced plans to upgrade their military alliance, and Biden's meeting with Kishida addressed Japan's possible involvement in advanced capabilities projects of the AUKUS security pact. Also watch | US-Japan forge new deals and partnership eyeing Indo-Pacific tensions × On Tuesday, American software giant Microsoft announced it would invest $2.9 billion over two years to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure in Japan. In the space sector, Japan is hoping to land its first astronaut on the moon with the US Artemis project. The US and Japan also signalled support for a plan to build the first high-speed rail in the US using Japanese bullet trains. Meanwhile, the US would place undisclosed "humanitarian relief commodities" at Philippine military bases. Facebook parent Meta has invested in a submarine cable system that would connect the US with the Philippines. Biden's Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment backed a new Luzon corridor effort in the Philippines, aimed at infrastructure projects including ports, rail, clean energy and semiconductor supply chains. (With inputs from agencies)

US defence commitments to Japan and Philippines are 'ironclad': President Joe Biden

US-Japan-Philippines Summit: Biden warns on Beijing's South China Sea moves

US-Japan-Philippines summit: First trilateral summit between Biden, Kishida & Marcos

US-Japan-Philippines summit: Biden vows to back Japan and Philippines

President Joe Biden hosted an inaugural trilateral summit Thursday with the leaders of the Philippines and Japan in the midst of growing concern about provocative Chinese military action in the Indo-Pacific. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida gathered with Biden at the White House to try to show they are in lockstep about countering China's military assertiveness.

US-Japan-Philippines summit: US President Biden warns on Beijing's South China Sea moves

US President Joe Biden said he was dedicated to "deepening maritime and security ties" with Japan and the Philippines, as he sought to reassure friends concerned about China's increasingly assertive behavior in disputed regions.

US President Joe Biden vows to Back Japan, Philippines

Japan PM bats for Ukraine, urges US to maintain Ukraine aid flow

South Korea, Japan and the United States conducted joint Naval exercises to enhance readiness against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. Watch in for more details!

US, South Korea and Japan conduct naval drills amid North Korea threats

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Biden hosts summit with Japan & Philippines amid Chinese provocation. White House says US was not involved in Damascus air attack. AAP leader Manish Sisodia moves Delhi Court, seeking interim bail. Watch in for more details!

US-Japan-Philippines Summit: Biden hosts summit amid Chinese provocation

An escalating diplomatic row and China-Philippines maritime run-ins have made the South China Sea a potential flashpoint between Washington and Beijing. Here's a look at the US-Philippines enhanced defense cooperation agreement, South China Sea tensions and Washington's presence in the region.

Bid to checkmate China? Key US defence pact with Manila; Washington expands Asia military presence

US ramps up ties with Japan, Philippines to counter China at sea

Ukraine risks collapsing under Russia's onslaught without U.S. support, a disaster that could embolden China and spark a new crisis in East Asia, Japan's prime minister told U.S. lawmakers on Thursday, urging them to overcome "self-doubt" about the country's role on the world stage.

In the first speech to a joint meeting of Congress by a Japanese leader in nine years,&nbsp;Fumio&nbsp;Kishida&nbsp;urged Americans not to doubt the country's "indispensable" role in world affairs, and said Tokyo was undertaking historic military upgrades to support its ally.

He spoke amid deep divisions in U.S. politics over the country's role on the world stage in a presidential election year, including in the House of Representatives chamber where he gave his address.

President Joe Biden's request for $60 billion in aid for Ukraine, which passed the Democratic-led Senate with 70% support in February, has been stalled in the Republican-controlled House as Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to allow a vote.

"I want to address those Americans who feel the loneliness and exhaustion of being the country that has upheld the international order,"&nbsp;Kishida&nbsp;said.

"The leadership of the United States is indispensable. Without U.S. support, how long before the hopes of Ukraine would collapse under the onslaught from Moscow? Without the presence of the United States, how long before the Indo-Pacific would face even harsher realities?"

Addresses to joint meetings of the Senate and House are an honor generally reserved for the closest U.S. allies, typically no more than once or twice a year. The last was by Israeli President Isaac Herzog on July 19, 2023.

Kishida&nbsp;is only the second Japanese prime minister ever to address a joint meeting, after Shinzo Abe on April 29, 2015.

His remarks were greeted several times by standing ovations, especially as he recounted the years of his childhood spent in New York and close Japanese-U.S. ties.

Kishida&nbsp;said the world was at a "historic turning point," with freedom and democracy under threat, emerging countries holding more economic power and climate change and rapid advances in artificial intelligence disrupting peoples' lives.

<h2>CHINA 'UNPRECEDENTED' CHALLENGE</h2>

He also warned about North Korea's nuclear program and exports of missiles supporting Russia's war in Ukraine. But the biggest challenge the world faces comes from China, he said.

"China's current external stance and military actions present an unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge, not only to the peace and security of Japan but to the peace and stability of the international community at large,"&nbsp;Kishida&nbsp;said. "Ukraine of today may be East Asia of tomorrow."

Japan has consistently raised concerns about Chinese military activity close to its islands and neighboring Taiwan.

Taiwan, claimed by China as its own territory, has raised its alert level since Russia invaded Ukraine, wary of the possibility Beijing might make a similar move on the island, though it has reported no signs this is about to happen.

To stress the importance of Taiwan, Republican Representative Michael McCaul, chairman of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, brought Taiwan's Representative to the United States, Alexander Yui, as his guest for&nbsp;Kishida's speech.

China's state-run Global Times newspaper said in an editorial this week that Japan and the U.S. were taking a leading role in efforts to "contain and suppress China."

Despite deep-rooted reservations in Japan about its militaristic past,&nbsp;Kishida&nbsp;said the country was embarking on a major shift in its defense posture to support U.S. efforts to ward off current threats.

"Japan has changed over the years. We have transformed ourselves from a reticent ally, recovering from the devastation of World War II, to a strong, committed ally, looking outward to the world," he said.

Japan's pacifist constitution, adopted after its defeat in World War Two, prohibits it waging war or maintaining the means to do so. But successive administrations have chipped away at that restraint, and plans unveiled at the end of 2022 to significantly beef up the military may soon see Japan become the world's third biggest military spender.

Kishida&nbsp;and Biden on Wednesday unveiled plans for military cooperation and projects ranging from missiles to moon landings, strengthening their alliance with an eye on countering China and Russia.

"On the spaceship called 'Freedom and Democracy,' Japan is proud to be your shipmate. We are on deck, we are on task. And we are ready to do what is necessary,"&nbsp;Kishida&nbsp;said.

Ukraine risks collapsing under Russia's onslaught without U.S. support, a disaster that could embolden China and spark a new crisis in East Asia, Japan's prime minister told U.

Ukraine risks collapsing under Russia's onslaught without U.S. support, a disaster that could embolden China and spark a new crisis in East Asia, Japan's prime minister told U.S. lawmakers on Thursday, urging them to overcome "self-doubt" about the country's role on the world stage. In the first speech to a joint meeting of Congress by a Japanese leader in nine years, Fumio Kishida urged Americans not to doubt the country's "indispensable" role in world affairs, and said Tokyo was undertaking historic military upgrades to support its ally. He spoke amid deep divisions in U.S. politics over the country's role on the world stage in a presidential election year, including in the House of Representatives chamber where he gave his address. President Joe Biden's request for $60 billion in aid for Ukraine, which passed the Democratic-led Senate with 70% support in February, has been stalled in the Republican-controlled House as Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to allow a vote. "I want to address those Americans who feel the loneliness and exhaustion of being the country that has upheld the international order," Kishida said. "The leadership of the United States is indispensable. Without U.S. support, how long before the hopes of Ukraine would collapse under the onslaught from Moscow? Without the presence of the United States, how long before the Indo-Pacific would face even harsher realities?" Addresses to joint meetings of the Senate and House are an honor generally reserved for the closest U.S. allies, typically no more than once or twice a year. The last was by Israeli President Isaac Herzog on July 19, 2023. Kishida is only the second Japanese prime minister ever to address a joint meeting, after Shinzo Abe on April 29, 2015. His remarks were greeted several times by standing ovations, especially as he recounted the years of his childhood spent in New York and close Japanese-U.S. ties. Kishida said the world was at a "historic turning point," with freedom and democracy under threat, emerging countries holding more economic power and climate change and rapid advances in artificial intelligence disrupting peoples' lives. CHINA 'UNPRECEDENTED' CHALLENGE He also warned about North Korea's nuclear program and exports of missiles supporting Russia's war in Ukraine. But the biggest challenge the world faces comes from China, he said. "China's current external stance and military actions present an unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge, not only to the peace and security of Japan but to the peace and stability of the international community at large," Kishida said. "Ukraine of today may be East Asia of tomorrow." Japan has consistently raised concerns about Chinese military activity close to its islands and neighboring Taiwan. Taiwan, claimed by China as its own territory, has raised its alert level since Russia invaded Ukraine, wary of the possibility Beijing might make a similar move on the island, though it has reported no signs this is about to happen. To stress the importance of Taiwan, Republican Representative Michael McCaul, chairman of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, brought Taiwan's Representative to the United States, Alexander Yui, as his guest for Kishida's speech. China's state-run Global Times newspaper said in an editorial this week that Japan and the U.S. were taking a leading role in efforts to "contain and suppress China." Despite deep-rooted reservations in Japan about its militaristic past, Kishida said the country was embarking on a major shift in its defense posture to support U.S. efforts to ward off current threats. "Japan has changed over the years. We have transformed ourselves from a reticent ally, recovering from the devastation of World War II, to a strong, committed ally, looking outward to the world," he said. Japan's pacifist constitution, adopted after its defeat in World War Two, prohibits it waging war or maintaining the means to do so. But successive administrations have chipped away at that restraint, and plans unveiled at the end of 2022 to significantly beef up the military may soon see Japan become the world's third biggest military spender. Kishida and Biden on Wednesday unveiled plans for military cooperation and projects ranging from missiles to moon landings, strengthening their alliance with an eye on countering China and Russia. "On the spaceship called 'Freedom and Democracy,' Japan is proud to be your shipmate. We are on deck, we are on task. And we are ready to do what is necessary," Kishida said.

Support from 'indispensable' US vital for Ukraine's survival, Japan PM tells Congress

Not just the Japanese prime minister who is currently in the US to bolster Security in the Indo-Pacific, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has landed in Washington as well to take part in the trilateral summit. Keep watching to know more!

Trilateral summit: US, Philippines, Japan to tackle South China Sea row in summit

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