China’s military conducted a naval and air patrol in the disputed South China Sea on Sunday – the same day the Philippines, US, Japan and Australia held joint drills in the area. Watch to know more.

Exercise in South China Sea: Japan, US, Australia & the Philippines hold maritime drill

<p>China’s military conducted joint air and sea “combat patrols” in the disputed South China Sea, on Sunday (Apr 7) as the United States held its first joint military drills with the Philippines, Japan and Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>China’s ‘combat patrols’</strong></h2>

<p>“The Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army will conduct a joint air and sea combat patrol in the South China Sea on April 7,” said Southern Theatre Command in a surprising announcement on its WeChat account, on Sunday morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US, Japan, Australia and Philippines hold drills</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-japan-australia-and-philippines-hold-drills-708728/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The statement also indicated that the patrols were conducted in response to the joint naval exercises by the US and its allies in the South China Sea. The PLA, in its brief statement, added “all military activities that disrupt the South China Sea and create hotspots are under control.”</p>

<p>However, the statement did not mention&nbsp;the joint drills being hosted by the Philippines or&nbsp;give any further details about its activities in the South China Sea.</p>

<h2><strong>First joint drills</strong></h2>

<p>The defence chiefs of the four countries, on Saturday (Apr 6) announced that they would conduct a “maritime cooperative activity” to safeguard the rule of law and uphold the right to sail through and fly over the waters and that the exercise would take place within the “Philippine exclusive economic zone.” &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-australia-to-begin-talks-on-bringing-new-members-into-aukus-report-708601">US, UK &amp; Australia to begin talks on bringing new members into AUKUS: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The first full-scale exercise involving the Philippines, the US, Australia and Japan would demonstrate “collective commitment” to strengthening regional and international cooperation “in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said the countries in a joint statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The war games also came days ahead of US President Joe Biden’s first trilateral summit with the leaders of Japan and the Philippines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said that naval vessels and aircraft from the four countries participated in the first Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>“BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS15) with AW109 helicopter, BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) with AW159 Wildcat ASW helicopter, and BRP Valentin Diaz (PS177) from the Philippine Navy; the USS Mobile and a P-8A Poseidon from the United States Navy; the Royal Australian Navy HMAS Warramunga and Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft; and the JS Akebono from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces” participated in the drills, it added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tensions in South China Sea</strong></h2>

<p>China has been at the centre of a long dispute and repeatedly claimed almost the entire South China Sea as its own despite an international tribunal ruling in 2016 which said that Beijing has no legal basis for its claim.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-simulate-military-exercise-to-counter-chinese-threat-against-taiwan-687137">US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan</a></strong></p>

<p>However, China has ignored that decision. Over the years, this&nbsp;territorial dispute has led to several skirmishes between Beijing and Manila which have flared up particularly since last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, China has&nbsp;accused the US of inflaming tensions by meddling in the disputes as Washington backs Manila and even conducted joint patrols with the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;in a show of support.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


China’s military conducted joint air and sea “combat patrols” in the disputed South China Sea, on Sunday (Apr 7) as the United States held its first joint military drills with the Philippines, Japan and Australia.

China’s military conducted joint air and sea “combat patrols” in the disputed South China Sea, on Sunday (Apr 7) as the United States held its first joint military drills with the Philippines, Japan and Australia. China’s ‘combat patrols’ “The Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army will conduct a joint air and sea combat patrol in the South China Sea on April 7,” said Southern Theatre Command in a surprising announcement on its WeChat account, on Sunday morning. WATCH | US, Japan, Australia and Philippines hold drills The statement also indicated that the patrols were conducted in response to the joint naval exercises by the US and its allies in the South China Sea. The PLA, in its brief statement, added “all military activities that disrupt the South China Sea and create hotspots are under control.” However, the statement did not mention the joint drills being hosted by the Philippines or give any further details about its activities in the South China Sea. First joint drills The defence chiefs of the four countries, on Saturday (Apr 6) announced that they would conduct a “maritime cooperative activity” to safeguard the rule of law and uphold the right to sail through and fly over the waters and that the exercise would take place within the “Philippine exclusive economic zone.” Also Read | US, UK & Australia to begin talks on bringing new members into AUKUS: Report The first full-scale exercise involving the Philippines, the US, Australia and Japan would demonstrate “collective commitment” to strengthening regional and international cooperation “in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said the countries in a joint statement. The war games also came days ahead of US President Joe Biden’s first trilateral summit with the leaders of Japan and the Philippines. In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said that naval vessels and aircraft from the four countries participated in the first Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA). “BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS15) with AW109 helicopter, BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) with AW159 Wildcat ASW helicopter, and BRP Valentin Diaz (PS177) from the Philippine Navy; the USS Mobile and a P-8A Poseidon from the United States Navy; the Royal Australian Navy HMAS Warramunga and Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft; and the JS Akebono from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces” participated in the drills, it added. Tensions in South China Sea China has been at the centre of a long dispute and repeatedly claimed almost the entire South China Sea as its own despite an international tribunal ruling in 2016 which said that Beijing has no legal basis for its claim. Also Read | US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan However, China has ignored that decision. Over the years, this territorial dispute has led to several skirmishes between Beijing and Manila which have flared up particularly since last year. Meanwhile, China has accused the US of inflaming tensions by meddling in the disputes as Washington backs Manila and even conducted joint patrols with the Philippines in a show of support. (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing patrols South China Sea amid first US-led war games with Australia, Japan, and Philippines

Japan, US, Australia and Philippines hold drills in South China Sea

Prior to joint military drills with its partners, the Philippines has claimed that two Chinese coastguard ships "harassed" Filipino fishing vessels within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the disputed South China Sea. Watch to know more.

Philippines accuses ‘harassment’ by Chinese vessels ahead of Japan, US drills

Rescuers are looking for 18 people still missing after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck the islands mountainous and scenic east coast a day after Taiwan was rocked by its most intense earthquake in 25 years.

Taiwan lashes out at China for thanking nations on its behalf

<p>Indians travelling to Japan can now obtain e-visas instead of actual passport stickers as Japan has started issuing eVisas for Indian tourists from April 1. The Japan Visa Application Center of VFS Global is now open to Indian citizens who wish to travel to Japan.</p>

<p>According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, e-visa will be a single-entry short-term stay (up to 90 days) visa for the purpose of tourism. While for other reasons, the travellers would still have to apply for visas on paper at Japanese embassies and consulates.</p>

<p>The ministry further stated that if provided an electronic visa, the passenger will not have a visa sticker in their passport.</p>

<p>"While checking in at the airport, you will be asked to display a visa issuance notice on your device (smartphone, tablet) to show that you have a valid e-visa," it said.</p>

<p>The e-visa facility is now accessible to nationals from Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, USA, China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia, the Republic of Korea and India.</p>

<p><strong>How to apply for Japan e-visa?</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>The traveller will have to visit the Japan e-visa website: https://www.evisa.mofa.go.jp/index and fill in the details.</li>
	<li>The results of the visa application will be sent to the registered e-mail address of the traveller.</li>
	<li>The visa fees will be notified to you by e-mail to Japanese overseas establishments where you are applying.</li>
	<li>The applicant might be requested to come in person to the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over the place of the applicant’s residence for an interview.</li>
</ul>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indians travelling to Japan can now obtain e-visas instead of actual passport stickers as Japan has started issuing eVisas for Indian tourists from April 1. The Japan Visa Application Center of VFS Global is now open to Indian citizens who wish to travel to Japan.

Indians travelling to Japan can now obtain e-visas instead of actual passport stickers as Japan has started issuing eVisas for Indian tourists from April 1. The Japan Visa Application Center of VFS Global is now open to Indian citizens who wish to travel to Japan. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, e-visa will be a single-entry short-term stay (up to 90 days) visa for the purpose of tourism. While for other reasons, the travellers would still have to apply for visas on paper at Japanese embassies and consulates. The ministry further stated that if provided an electronic visa, the passenger will not have a visa sticker in their passport. "While checking in at the airport, you will be asked to display a visa issuance notice on your device (smartphone, tablet) to show that you have a valid e-visa," it said. The e-visa facility is now accessible to nationals from Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, USA, China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia, the Republic of Korea and India. How to apply for Japan e-visa? The traveller will have to visit the Japan e-visa website: https://www.evisa.mofa.go.jp/index and fill in the details. The results of the visa application will be sent to the registered e-mail address of the traveller. The visa fees will be notified to you by e-mail to Japanese overseas establishments where you are applying. The applicant might be requested to come in person to the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over the place of the applicant’s residence for an interview. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan rolls out e-visas for Indian tourists. All you need to know

At least about nine people have been killed and over 700 others have been injured after a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake jolted Taiwan's Capital Taipei. An estimated 50 people at this moment are still said to be missing. Watch in for more details!

Taiwan Earthquake: Rescue efforts continue

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe.

Taiwan Earthquake triggers landslides | Iran, Syria condemn Israel attack

Nine people have died and at least 50 others are missing following a 7.2 magnitude quake in Taiwan. The tremors were felt a little before 8 AM. Tsunami alerts were issued in the Philippines and Japan. Taiwan is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire. Is the island prepared for mega quakes?

Taiwan Earthquake: Two Indians reportedly missing | Is the island prepared for mega earthquakes?

At least about nine people have been killed and over 700 others have been injured after a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake jolted Taiwan's Capital Taipei. An estimated 50 people at this moment are still said to be missing.

Taiwan Earthquake: Japan and Philippines lift Tsunami warnings

Taiwan Earthquake: A powerful earthquake of 7.2 magnitude earthquake jolted the Islands capital of Tapei. The earthquake has prompted tsunami warnings in the self-ruled island parts of Southern Japan and Philippines.

Taiwan Earthquak hits at depth of 15.5 kilometers, strongest quake to hit in 25 years

Taiwan Earthquake: Major earthquake collapses buildings in Taiwan, shocks felt in China

Taiwan Earthquake: Epicentre of quake in waters off Eastern coastline of Taiwan

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidSZgpjSgDWIjX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>People in Japan could all have the same surname in about 500 years, a study has suggested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hiroshi Yoshida, a professor of economy at Tohoku University, led the study as part of a campaign to update the civil code that has been in place since the 1800s. The research revealed that the entire Japanese population might go by the last name of Sato-san by 2531 unless married couples are permitted to use separate surnames. For now, Japanese couples must have the same family name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study, based on several assumptions, aimed to draw attention to the impact the present system has on Japanese society.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If everyone becomes Sato, we may have to be addressed by our first names or by numbers," the professor said, according to the Japanese publication Mainichi. "I don't think that would be a good world to live in."</p>

<p>Sato is the most common surname in Japan at the moment. It accounts for 1.5 per cent of the 125.1 million-strong population. The second is Suzuki.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-services-sector-shows-accelerated-growth-in-march-caixin-pmi-reveals-707153">China's services sector shows accelerated growth in March, Caixin PMI reveals</a></p>

<p>Since the study was published on April 1, some people think it's a prank. However, Yoshida wants people to take the matter seriously. According to him, if everyone had the same surname, it would be difficult to find another way to differentiate between people. The professor called it, "not only inconvenient but also [undermining] individual dignity."</p>

<p>Apart from practical difficulties, losing different surnames would cause a loss of cultural, regional, and family heritage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The proportion of Satos increased 1.0083 times between 2022 and 2023. Around half of the Japanese population would have that name in 2446 if Satos increased at this rate, reaching 100 per cent in 2531.</p>

<p>In Japan, the woman has to change her last name in 95 per cent of marriages. However, it is not specific in the current laws. But more and more people are now in support of married couples using separate surnames.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Japan does not allow couples to have separate last names, becoming the only country in the world that requires spouses to use the same family name. However, the government has allowed maiden names to appear alongside married names on passports, driving licences and residence certificates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ruling Liberal Democratic Party has given the main argument against the issue. They say changing the law would undermine family unity and could cause confusion among children.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


People in Japan could all have the same surname in about 500 years, a study has suggested. Hiroshi Yoshida, a professor of economy at Tohoku University, led the study as part of a campaign to update the civil code that has been in place since the 1800s.

People in Japan could all have the same surname in about 500 years, a study has suggested. Hiroshi Yoshida, a professor of economy at Tohoku University, led the study as part of a campaign to update the civil code that has been in place since the 1800s. The research revealed that the entire Japanese population might go by the last name of Sato-san by 2531 unless married couples are permitted to use separate surnames. For now, Japanese couples must have the same family name. The study, based on several assumptions, aimed to draw attention to the impact the present system has on Japanese society. "If everyone becomes Sato, we may have to be addressed by our first names or by numbers," the professor said, according to the Japanese publication Mainichi. "I don't think that would be a good world to live in." Sato is the most common surname in Japan at the moment. It accounts for 1.5 per cent of the 125.1 million-strong population. The second is Suzuki. ALSO READ | China's services sector shows accelerated growth in March, Caixin PMI reveals Since the study was published on April 1, some people think it's a prank. However, Yoshida wants people to take the matter seriously. According to him, if everyone had the same surname, it would be difficult to find another way to differentiate between people. The professor called it, "not only inconvenient but also [undermining] individual dignity." Apart from practical difficulties, losing different surnames would cause a loss of cultural, regional, and family heritage. The proportion of Satos increased 1.0083 times between 2022 and 2023. Around half of the Japanese population would have that name in 2446 if Satos increased at this rate, reaching 100 per cent in 2531. In Japan, the woman has to change her last name in 95 per cent of marriages. However, it is not specific in the current laws. But more and more people are now in support of married couples using separate surnames. Japan does not allow couples to have separate last names, becoming the only country in the world that requires spouses to use the same family name. However, the government has allowed maiden names to appear alongside married names on passports, driving licences and residence certificates. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party has given the main argument against the issue. They say changing the law would undermine family unity and could cause confusion among children. (With inputs from agencies)

Entire population of Japan to have same surname by 2531, study suggests

Taiwan Earthquake: 7.4 magnitude quake joltsTaiwan

<p>A powerful earthquake of 7.5 magnitude hit Taiwan around 9:00 am Japanese local time (0000 GMT) on Wednesday (April 3) which led to tsunami warnings for southern Japanese islands, said Japan Meteorological Agency. Seven people were&nbsp;killed and more than 700 others were reported injured in the massive earthquake.</p>

<p>According to the agency, tsunami waves as high as three metres (10 feet) were expected in remote Japanese islands close to Taiwan, which includes Miyakojima Island. However, tsunami warnings have now been lifted.</p>

<p>The earthquake reportedly knocked out power in different parts of the city. The footage of some collapsed buildings near the quake's epicentre was telecast&nbsp;on Taiwan television stations.&nbsp;As per media reports, some people are also trapped in the debris. The quake was felt as far as Shanghai.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-say-tectonic-plate-tearing-apart-under-pacific-ocean-from-japan-to-new-zealand-688973">Scientists say tectonic plate tearing apart under Pacific Ocean from Japan to New Zealand</a></p>

<p>The earthquake's epicentre was near the coast of the eastern county of Hualien, in waters off Taiwan Island's eastern coastline, said the Taiwan Central Weather Administration.</p>

<h2><strong>Japan issues evacuation advisory</strong></h2>

<p>An evacuation advisory was issued by the Japanese authorities for the coastal areas of the southern prefecture of Okinawa, in the wake of the tsunami alert.</p>

<p>Japan’s national broadcaster&nbsp;broadcasted&nbsp;warnings like&nbsp;“Tsunami is coming. Please evacuate immediately,” said an anchor on NHK. “Do not stop. Do not go back," they said.</p>

<p>“Evacuate!” read a banner on the broadcast channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another warning was issued by the Philippines Seismology Agency for residents in coastal areas of different provinces, appealing to them to evacuate to higher ground.</p>

<p>The earthquake tremors were also felt in Fuzhou, Xiamen, Quanzhou and Ningde in China's Fujian province, as per the Chinese state media.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;2,000 earthquakes near Canada coast making the ocean come apart</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/2000-earthquakes-near-canada-coast-making-the-ocean-come-apart-703397/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>No reports of damage were received by the Taipei city government and the MRT of the city was up and running soon after the quake. However, visuals shared on social media platforms showed shaking bridges and collapsed buildings.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Now we're starting to see some real damage from the Taiwan earthquake<br />
<br />
Pray for Taiwan 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/6EXy0yanra">pic.twitter.com/6EXy0yanra</a></p>
— Brian BJ (@iamBrianBJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamBrianBJ/status/1775323818904416566?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKIN: A Multistory Building on the Corner of Congquing and Zhongshan Road has Partially Collapsed in Hualien as 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake hit Taiwan.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taiwan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Earthquake</a> <a href="https://t.co/ePZ2XhgcFC">pic.twitter.com/ePZ2XhgcFC</a></p>
— Wali Khan (@WaliKhan_TK) <a href="https://twitter.com/WaliKhan_TK/status/1775325700783853870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨BREAKING: 7.5 magnitude earthquake in Taiwan <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a><br />
The shaking was so bad that people commuting to work stopped.<a href="https://t.co/jNgUZm9pMl">pic.twitter.com/jNgUZm9pMl</a></p>
— AJ Huber (@Huberton) <a href="https://twitter.com/Huberton/status/1775325620395819288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Southern Taiwan Science Park, where the plant of semiconductor giant Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co is located, said that the companies have been operating without impact.</p>

<p>According to Taiwan’s official central news agency, this was the biggest earthquake to hit the island since 1999 when around 2,400 people were killed in a quake of 7.6 magnitude.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A powerful earthquake of 7.5 magnitude hit Taiwan around 9:00 am Japanese local time (0000 GMT) on Wednesday (April 3) which led to tsunami warnings for southern Japanese islands, said Japan Meteorological Agency.

A powerful earthquake of 7.5 magnitude hit Taiwan around 9:00 am Japanese local time (0000 GMT) on Wednesday (April 3) which led to tsunami warnings for southern Japanese islands, said Japan Meteorological Agency. Seven people were killed and more than 700 others were reported injured in the massive earthquake. According to the agency, tsunami waves as high as three metres (10 feet) were expected in remote Japanese islands close to Taiwan, which includes Miyakojima Island. However, tsunami warnings have now been lifted. The earthquake reportedly knocked out power in different parts of the city. The footage of some collapsed buildings near the quake's epicentre was telecast on Taiwan television stations. As per media reports, some people are also trapped in the debris. The quake was felt as far as Shanghai. Also Read: Scientists say tectonic plate tearing apart under Pacific Ocean from Japan to New Zealand The earthquake's epicentre was near the coast of the eastern county of Hualien, in waters off Taiwan Island's eastern coastline, said the Taiwan Central Weather Administration. Japan issues evacuation advisory An evacuation advisory was issued by the Japanese authorities for the coastal areas of the southern prefecture of Okinawa, in the wake of the tsunami alert. Japan’s national broadcaster broadcasted warnings like “Tsunami is coming. Please evacuate immediately,” said an anchor on NHK. “Do not stop. Do not go back," they said. “Evacuate!” read a banner on the broadcast channel. Another warning was issued by the Philippines Seismology Agency for residents in coastal areas of different provinces, appealing to them to evacuate to higher ground. The earthquake tremors were also felt in Fuzhou, Xiamen, Quanzhou and Ningde in China's Fujian province, as per the Chinese state media. Watch: 2,000 earthquakes near Canada coast making the ocean come apart No reports of damage were received by the Taipei city government and the MRT of the city was up and running soon after the quake. However, visuals shared on social media platforms showed shaking bridges and collapsed buildings. Now we're starting to see some real damage from the Taiwan earthquake Pray for Taiwan 🙏 pic.twitter.com/6EXy0yanra — Brian BJ (@iamBrianBJ) April 3, 2024 × BREAKIN: A Multistory Building on the Corner of Congquing and Zhongshan Road has Partially Collapsed in Hualien as 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake hit Taiwan.#Taiwan #Earthquake pic.twitter.com/ePZ2XhgcFC — Wali Khan (@WaliKhan_TK) April 3, 2024 × 🚨BREAKING: 7.5 magnitude earthquake in Taiwan #earthquake The shaking was so bad that people commuting to work stopped.pic.twitter.com/jNgUZm9pMl — AJ Huber (@Huberton) April 3, 2024 × Southern Taiwan Science Park, where the plant of semiconductor giant Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co is located, said that the companies have been operating without impact. According to Taiwan’s official central news agency, this was the biggest earthquake to hit the island since 1999 when around 2,400 people were killed in a quake of 7.6 magnitude. (With inputs from agencies)

Earthquake in Taiwan: Powerful quake of 7.5 magnitude rocks Taiwan, seven killed

Tokyo residents rush to view cherry blossoms ahead of rainy weather. Tokyo and Osaka are set to be among the first locations to witness the colourful spectacle in March, excitement is building for an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s splendour.

Japan: Cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo

US President Joe Biden will meet Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippines President Fernando Marcos Jr in Washington on April 11th. This will be the first US-Japan-Philippines trilateral Summit and is seen as US's Outreach to counter China's influence.

US to host trilateral summit with Japan, Philippines on April 11

While dietary supplements are at the centre of an expanding Health Care in Japan, the renowned Kobayashi Pharmaceuticals has reported five deaths possibly tied to its dietary supplements.

After 5 deaths, concerns grow in Japan over dietary supplement

Oil rose a little, with Brent crude hitting 87 dollars per barrel even as red sea tensions escalated. Gold rose by 1.1%, continuing its upward trajectory. The dollar continues its gains as expectations for a fed cut in June gain traction. Japan's markets are down 1.5%.

Global markets performance in March

Japan's economic outlook remains uncertain, with mixed signals emerging from a recent central bank survey. The survey showed a surprising surge in sentiment among large non-manufacturing businesses. Their confidence index reached the highest level since 1991. Watch in for more details!

Japan’s service sector sentiment hits 3-decade high, says survey

According to reports Japan and the European Union have agreed to begin discussions on collaborating for Advanced Materials in Next Generation chips and batteries. Watch in for more details!

Japan, EU in discussions over chips & EV batteries

Japanese Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki has said there were speculative moves behind recent Yen declines. He asked authorities to remain on standby to intervene in the highly volatile currency market.

Japan: Finance minister on weak Yen

The battle for AI dominance is all set to heat up in Asia. Japan and the US are all set to announce closer cooperation in artificial intelligence, when President Joe Biden will host prime minister Fumio Kishida next month. According to Japanese media reports, the joint statement will advocate stronger cooperation in AI and semiconductors.

Japan & the US set to announce closer cooperation in AI

<p>On Sunday (Mar 31), Japan announced that its specialists have engaged in discussions with Chinese officials to alleviate Beijing's worries regarding the release of treated radioactive wastewater from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean.</p>

<p>Fishing associations and nearby nations, particularly China, have opposed the discharge of treated radioactive wastewater. China's response, which involved stopping all imports of Japanese seafood, has significantly impacted Japanese scallop producers and exporters who rely on the Chinese market.</p>

<p>During the discussions in Dalian, a northeastern city in China, Japanese officials provided a "science-based" explanation of the safe execution of the wastewater discharges, as reported by the Japanese Foreign Ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Japan pays tribute to victims of 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pays-tribute-to-victims-of-2011-fukushima-nuclear-disaster-699135/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Background: Fukushima disaster and wastewater accumulation</h2>

<p>Following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant suffered damage to its power supply and reactor cooling systems, leading to meltdowns in three reactors.</p>

<p>Consequently, a large&nbsp;amount of radioactive wastewater accumulated on-site. After more than a decade of storage in tanks, occupying considerable space on the complex, the plant commenced the discharge of treated wastewater into the ocean on August 24, 2023. This process, which involves treating the water at least once and diluting it with seawater, is anticipated to continue for several decades.</p>

<p>During a summit meeting in November, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to have scientific discussions by experts.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/high-radiation-level-detected-in-japans-fukushima-nuclear-plant-workers-nose-670069">Also read |&nbsp;Fukushima nuclear plant: High radiation level detected in nose of a worker</a></p>

<p>Since then, there have been several informal meetings between the two countries. Sunday's statement from the Japanese Foreign Ministry was the first public acknowledgment of these talks.</p>

<p>Experts discussed technical matters related to the wastewater discharges, focussing on transparency. However, details, including what the Chinese side said and whether differences were resolved, were not disclosed due to the sensitivity of the issue.</p>

<p>This meeting followed a visit by Rafael Mariano Rafael, Chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency, to the plant in mid-March, where he confirmed the safe execution of the ongoing discharges as planned.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


On Sunday (Mar 31), Japan announced that its specialists have engaged in discussions with Chinese officials to alleviate Beijing's worries regarding the release of treated radioactive wastewater from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean.

On Sunday (Mar 31), Japan announced that its specialists have engaged in discussions with Chinese officials to alleviate Beijing's worries regarding the release of treated radioactive wastewater from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean. Fishing associations and nearby nations, particularly China, have opposed the discharge of treated radioactive wastewater. China's response, which involved stopping all imports of Japanese seafood, has significantly impacted Japanese scallop producers and exporters who rely on the Chinese market. During the discussions in Dalian, a northeastern city in China, Japanese officials provided a "science-based" explanation of the safe execution of the wastewater discharges, as reported by the Japanese Foreign Ministry. Also watch | Japan pays tribute to victims of 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster Background: Fukushima disaster and wastewater accumulation Following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant suffered damage to its power supply and reactor cooling systems, leading to meltdowns in three reactors. Consequently, a large amount of radioactive wastewater accumulated on-site. After more than a decade of storage in tanks, occupying considerable space on the complex, the plant commenced the discharge of treated wastewater into the ocean on August 24, 2023. This process, which involves treating the water at least once and diluting it with seawater, is anticipated to continue for several decades. During a summit meeting in November, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to have scientific discussions by experts. Also read | Fukushima nuclear plant: High radiation level detected in nose of a worker Since then, there have been several informal meetings between the two countries. Sunday's statement from the Japanese Foreign Ministry was the first public acknowledgment of these talks. Experts discussed technical matters related to the wastewater discharges, focussing on transparency. However, details, including what the Chinese side said and whether differences were resolved, were not disclosed due to the sensitivity of the issue. This meeting followed a visit by Rafael Mariano Rafael, Chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency, to the plant in mid-March, where he confirmed the safe execution of the ongoing discharges as planned. (With inputs from agencies)

Fukushima disaster: Japan says experts met in China to dispel concerns over radioactive water

The government disclosed guidelines for the construction of underground shelters on outlying islands in Okinawa Prefecture in case of a military crisis involving Taiwan.

Japan's shelters near Taiwan, govt to pay for designing & construction

Japan to build shelters on Isles near Taiwan to protect citizens for two weeks

Japan to build shelters on isles near Taiwan

Japan's Yen dropped to its lowest level since 1990 on Wednesday before rebounding slightly. With the currency hitting a 34-year-low, Japanese authorities are now likely to intervene in the forex market. The dollar reached 151.975 yen, its strongest against the yen since mid-1990, before easing 0.13% to end at 151.36.

Japanese Yen drops to its lowest level since 1990

<p>Japan's unmanned Moon lander has reactivated after encountering its second cold, two-week lunar night, and has sent back new images to Earth, according to Japan's space agency on Thursday (Mar 28).</p>

<p>"We received a response from SLIM last night and confirmed that SLIM had successfully completed its second overnight," the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) said in a post on its official X account about&nbsp;the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) probe.</p>

<p>"Since the sun was still high in the sky last night and the equipment was still hot, we recorded images of the usual scenery with the navigational camera, among other activities, for a short period of time," it added.</p>

<h2><strong>JAXA's lunar journey</strong></h2>

<p>Formerly posted on X, a grayscale image capturing the rough terrain of a crater accompanied the update on the SLIM mission, shared via a platform similar to Twitter. The SLIM lander's touchdown in January happened&nbsp;at an unexpected angle, misaligning its solar panels.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japans-moon-lander-goes-dormant-once-again-amazing-final-image-of-lunar-surface-see-it-here-686216">Also read |&nbsp;Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again</a></p>

<p>Despite this roadblock JAXA&nbsp;marked Japan as the fifth country to achieve a lunar landing.</p>

<p>Subsequently, in late January, as the sun's position shifted, SLIM reawakened for a brief period, using&nbsp;its high-spec camera to conduct scientific observations.</p>

<p>However, the harsh lunar nights, with temperatures dropping to minus 133 degrees Celsius, presented&nbsp;a challenge as SLIM was not made to withstand&nbsp;such conditions.</p>

<p>The successful revival of the spacecraft in late February brought relief to JAXA scientists, earning SLIM the nickname "Moon Sniper" for its smooth&nbsp;landing capabilities.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Japanese moon lander 'SLIM' comes back to life and resumes mission</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japanese-moon-lander-slim-comes-back-to-life-and-resumes-mission-684772/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>The central objective of the mission is to investigate a segment of the Moon's mantle.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japan's unmanned Moon lander has reactivated after encountering its second cold, two-week lunar night, and has sent back new images to Earth, according to Japan's space agency on Thursday (Mar 28).

Japan's unmanned Moon lander has reactivated after encountering its second cold, two-week lunar night, and has sent back new images to Earth, according to Japan's space agency on Thursday (Mar 28). "We received a response from SLIM last night and confirmed that SLIM had successfully completed its second overnight," the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) said in a post on its official X account about the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) probe. "Since the sun was still high in the sky last night and the equipment was still hot, we recorded images of the usual scenery with the navigational camera, among other activities, for a short period of time," it added. JAXA's lunar journey Formerly posted on X, a grayscale image capturing the rough terrain of a crater accompanied the update on the SLIM mission, shared via a platform similar to Twitter. The SLIM lander's touchdown in January happened at an unexpected angle, misaligning its solar panels. Also read | Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again Despite this roadblock JAXA marked Japan as the fifth country to achieve a lunar landing. Subsequently, in late January, as the sun's position shifted, SLIM reawakened for a brief period, using its high-spec camera to conduct scientific observations. However, the harsh lunar nights, with temperatures dropping to minus 133 degrees Celsius, presented a challenge as SLIM was not made to withstand such conditions. The successful revival of the spacecraft in late February brought relief to JAXA scientists, earning SLIM the nickname "Moon Sniper" for its smooth landing capabilities. Also watch | Japanese moon lander 'SLIM' comes back to life and resumes mission The central objective of the mission is to investigate a segment of the Moon's mantle. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan's unmanned moon lander wakes up after surviving second lunar night

A Japanese nappy maker has announced that it will stop producing diapers for babies in the country and, instead, focus on the market for adults. Watch in for more details!

Japan nappy maker shifts from babies to adults

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