Another lunar mission planned by ISRO and JAXA will take place in the near future. The LUPEX, or Lunar Polar Exploration, mission is scheduled to launch in 2024–2025. The procedure will get even more difficult as LUPEX investigates the permanently dark polar area of the Moon.

India-Japan Space Ties: Lupex to be first-ever joint space mission by the two countries

Japan's space agency has postponed the launch of its Moon Sniper lunar Mission. The attribute to the abortion of the mission was poor weather. Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency has given no new date for the start of the mission.

Japan's Space Agency postpones 'moon sniper' lunar mission

<p>A controversial real-estate development proposal has cast a shadow over the existence of Jingu Gaien Park, situated at the heart of Tokyo, the Associated Press news agency said. As per the report, Governor Yuriko Koike has already approved the plan earlier in the year. It is spearheaded by Mitsui Fudosan and aims to erect two towering skyscrapers, each soaring 200 meters (650 feet) into the skyline.</p>

<p>However, the main area of concern is that the project comes at the cost of trees in one of Tokyo's precious green spaces. It also includes demolishing and reconstructing a historic rugby venue and an adjoining baseball stadium, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-authorities-to-ban-wearing-islamic-abayas-in-schools-629795">French authorities to ban wearing Islamic abayas in schools</a></p>

<p>In order to raise their voice against the proposed cutting down&nbsp;of the&nbsp;majestic 100-year-old ginkgo trees, a few hundred protesters gathered at the Jingu Gaien Park on Sunday (August 27), an area that was allocated 100 years ago to honour Japan's Meiji Emperor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A protester, Miho Nakashima, painted herself in green leaves and brown branches to mark her protest in Tokyo. "I'm a tree. Don't chop me down," she told AP, conveying the message loud and clear.</p>

<p>"I want to appreciate the existence of these trees. Sometimes I can feel some sounds inside," another protestor&nbsp;Takayuki Nakamura said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-definitely-be-left-alone-zelensky-says-allies-will-not-back-ukraine-in-hostilities-on-russian-soil-629791">'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil</a></p>

<h2><strong>Lawsuits</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>With lawsuits, mounting opposition, and fervent objections from conservationists, local residents, civic groups, and sports enthusiasts, the decade-long redevelopment project faces significant resistance. At the heart of the dispute are the 18 ginkgo trees facing the threat of being axed behind the rugby stadium.</p>

<p>The dispute is magnified by the historical significance attached to the place.&nbsp;Over the years, this issue has stirred significant controversy. Botanists warn of damage due to construction.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song</strong></p>

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<p>Famed Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami and composer-musician Ryuichi Sakamoto have also voiced their opposition. Sakamoto sent a letter to Governor Koike criticising the plan.</p>

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A controversial real-estate development proposal has cast a shadow over the existence of Jingu Gaien Park, situated at the heart of Tokyo, the Associated Press news agency said.

A controversial real-estate development proposal has cast a shadow over the existence of Jingu Gaien Park, situated at the heart of Tokyo, the Associated Press news agency said. As per the report, Governor Yuriko Koike has already approved the plan earlier in the year. It is spearheaded by Mitsui Fudosan and aims to erect two towering skyscrapers, each soaring 200 meters (650 feet) into the skyline. However, the main area of concern is that the project comes at the cost of trees in one of Tokyo's precious green spaces. It also includes demolishing and reconstructing a historic rugby venue and an adjoining baseball stadium, as per reports. Also Read | French authorities to ban wearing Islamic abayas in schools In order to raise their voice against the proposed cutting down of the majestic 100-year-old ginkgo trees, a few hundred protesters gathered at the Jingu Gaien Park on Sunday (August 27), an area that was allocated 100 years ago to honour Japan's Meiji Emperor. A protester, Miho Nakashima, painted herself in green leaves and brown branches to mark her protest in Tokyo. "I'm a tree. Don't chop me down," she told AP, conveying the message loud and clear. "I want to appreciate the existence of these trees. Sometimes I can feel some sounds inside," another protestor Takayuki Nakamura said. Also Read | 'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil Lawsuits With lawsuits, mounting opposition, and fervent objections from conservationists, local residents, civic groups, and sports enthusiasts, the decade-long redevelopment project faces significant resistance. At the heart of the dispute are the 18 ginkgo trees facing the threat of being axed behind the rugby stadium. The dispute is magnified by the historical significance attached to the place. Over the years, this issue has stirred significant controversy. Botanists warn of damage due to construction. Watch | Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song × Famed Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami and composer-musician Ryuichi Sakamoto have also voiced their opposition. Sakamoto sent a letter to Governor Koike criticising the plan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Tokyo is planning to cut down 100-year-old ginkgo trees to build two skyscrapers

<p>Japan's launch of an H-IIA rocket, carrying a moon lander into space, has been postponed due to unfavourable wind conditions in the upper atmosphere, according to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the operator of the rocket, media reports said. The announcement was made through MHI's launch services unit on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, just 24 minutes before the scheduled launch time. The mission was cancelled "because it was confirmed that the upper wind does not satisfy the constraints at launch," MHI's launch services unit said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The launch was planned to take place at 9:26 am local time (0026 GMT) on Monday (August 28) from the Tanegashima Space Center in southern Japan, operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).</p>

<p>JAXA, during its live YouTube stream, indicated that further information would be provided by MHI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-authorities-to-ban-wearing-islamic-abayas-in-schools-629795">French authorities to ban wearing Islamic abayas in schools</a></p>

<h2>Third failed attempt&nbsp;</h2>

<p>This is Japan's third failed moon mission. Japan's previous endeavours include an unsuccessful endeavour last year when they sought to achieve a lunar landing with the Omotenashi probe, transported by NASA's Artemis 1. Regrettably, this mission encountered setbacks leading to a loss of communication.</p>

<p>In the second failed attempt in April this year, a Japanese start-up ispace faced a setback in its ambitious aspiration to become the pioneering private enterprise to successfully land on the Moon. Unfortunately, communication was lost following what the company described as a "hard landing".</p>

<h2><strong>'Moon Sniper'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Dubbed the "Moon Sniper," JAXA's mission has earned this moniker due to its precise objective of achieving a lunar landing within a mere 100 meters (330 feet) of a designated target. This target range stands in stark contrast to the routine range of several kilometres.</p>

<p>Japan's space exploration journey has been marred by challenges in its rocket launches.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-definitely-be-left-alone-zelensky-says-allies-will-not-back-ukraine-in-hostilities-on-russian-soil-629791">'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil</a></p>

<p>The H3 model, touted as Japan's next-generation launch vehicle, experienced failures post liftoff in March. Moreover, the usually dependable solid-fuel Epsilon also encountered issues in October last year.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song</strong></p>

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<p>JAXA had plans to kick off Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM's) moon landing sometime between January and February 2024, This comes in the backdrop of the success of India's Chandrayaan-3 lunar exploration mission.</p>

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Japan's launch of an H-IIA rocket, carrying a moon lander into space, has been postponed due to unfavourable wind conditions in the upper atmosphere, according to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the operator of the rocket, media reports said.

Japan's launch of an H-IIA rocket, carrying a moon lander into space, has been postponed due to unfavourable wind conditions in the upper atmosphere, according to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the operator of the rocket, media reports said. The announcement was made through MHI's launch services unit on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, just 24 minutes before the scheduled launch time. The mission was cancelled "because it was confirmed that the upper wind does not satisfy the constraints at launch," MHI's launch services unit said. The launch was planned to take place at 9:26 am local time (0026 GMT) on Monday (August 28) from the Tanegashima Space Center in southern Japan, operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). JAXA, during its live YouTube stream, indicated that further information would be provided by MHI. Also Read | French authorities to ban wearing Islamic abayas in schools Third failed attempt This is Japan's third failed moon mission. Japan's previous endeavours include an unsuccessful endeavour last year when they sought to achieve a lunar landing with the Omotenashi probe, transported by NASA's Artemis 1. Regrettably, this mission encountered setbacks leading to a loss of communication. In the second failed attempt in April this year, a Japanese start-up ispace faced a setback in its ambitious aspiration to become the pioneering private enterprise to successfully land on the Moon. Unfortunately, communication was lost following what the company described as a "hard landing". 'Moon Sniper' Dubbed the "Moon Sniper," JAXA's mission has earned this moniker due to its precise objective of achieving a lunar landing within a mere 100 meters (330 feet) of a designated target. This target range stands in stark contrast to the routine range of several kilometres. Japan's space exploration journey has been marred by challenges in its rocket launches. Also Read | 'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil The H3 model, touted as Japan's next-generation launch vehicle, experienced failures post liftoff in March. Moreover, the usually dependable solid-fuel Epsilon also encountered issues in October last year. Watch | Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song × JAXA had plans to kick off Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM's) moon landing sometime between January and February 2024, This comes in the backdrop of the success of India's Chandrayaan-3 lunar exploration mission. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Japan postpones 'Moon Sniper' mission due to wind conditions

<p>China has raised the issue of wasterwater release from Fukushima nuclear plant in the United Nations and urged Japan to immediately stop the operation. China has termed release of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean a selfish and irresponsible act.</p>

<p>The issue was raised at a plenary meeting of the United Nations General Assembly called to discuss co-operation between the UN and the Pacific Islands Forum on Friday (August 25).</p>

<p>Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the UN said that Japan decided release of wastewater unilaterally disregarding public interests. This, said China, has caused risk of nuclear pollution.</p>

<p>"So far Japan has failed to address the major concerns of the international community about the long-term reliability of nuclear-contaminated water purification devices, the authenticity and accuracy of nuclear-contaminated water data, and the sophistication and validity of the discharge monitoring program. China and other stakeholders have repeatedly pointed out that if the nuclear-contaminated water is safe, then there is no need to discharge it into the sea; if it is not safe, it should not be discharged," Geng said.</p>

<p>He stated that though Japan has referred to the report from International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the agency has has stressed that the water discharge is a national decision by Japan and its report is neither a recommendation nor an endorsement of that policy.</p>

<p>"The IAEA report cannot serve as a 'pass' for Japan to push forward the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water. The report cannot grant Japan legitimacy for the discharge, nor can it absolve Japan from its moral responsibility and obligations to international law," Geng said.</p>

<p>He said that ocean is the common property of all mankind and twleve years after the Fukushima disaster, Japanese government's decision to launch the discharge plan was in disregard to doubts and opposition from the international community. This, he said, would cause secondary harm to locals and even people of the world.</p>

<p>Geng said that China urges Japan to stop the wrongdoing and stop the discharge. He also asked Japan to communicate with neighboring countries with sincerity and good will, dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner and accept rigorous international oversight. </p>

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China has raised the issue of wasterwater release from Fukushima nuclear plant in the United Nations and urged Japan to immediately stop the operation. China has termed release of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean a selfish and irresponsible act.

China has raised the issue of wasterwater release from Fukushima nuclear plant in the United Nations and urged Japan to immediately stop the operation. China has termed release of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean a selfish and irresponsible act. The issue was raised at a plenary meeting of the United Nations General Assembly called to discuss co-operation between the UN and the Pacific Islands Forum on Friday (August 25). Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the UN said that Japan decided release of wastewater unilaterally disregarding public interests. This, said China, has caused risk of nuclear pollution. "So far Japan has failed to address the major concerns of the international community about the long-term reliability of nuclear-contaminated water purification devices, the authenticity and accuracy of nuclear-contaminated water data, and the sophistication and validity of the discharge monitoring program. China and other stakeholders have repeatedly pointed out that if the nuclear-contaminated water is safe, then there is no need to discharge it into the sea; if it is not safe, it should not be discharged," Geng said. He stated that though Japan has referred to the report from International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the agency has has stressed that the water discharge is a national decision by Japan and its report is neither a recommendation nor an endorsement of that policy. "The IAEA report cannot serve as a 'pass' for Japan to push forward the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water. The report cannot grant Japan legitimacy for the discharge, nor can it absolve Japan from its moral responsibility and obligations to international law," Geng said. He said that ocean is the common property of all mankind and twleve years after the Fukushima disaster, Japanese government's decision to launch the discharge plan was in disregard to doubts and opposition from the international community. This, he said, would cause secondary harm to locals and even people of the world. Geng said that China urges Japan to stop the wrongdoing and stop the discharge. He also asked Japan to communicate with neighboring countries with sincerity and good will, dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner and accept rigorous international oversight.  You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China raises Fukushima water issue in UN, asks Japan to stop discharge

<p>In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, North Korea's foreign ministry called for an immediate halt to Japan's&nbsp;release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant into the ocean. The statement, conveyed via the official Korean Central News Agency, characterised the release as "dangerous" and claimed it posed a significant threat to global security and the future of humanity.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">"Japan should immediately withdraw the dangerous release of radioactive wastewater which seriously threatens the lives, safety and the future of humanity," the statement said.</p>

<p>The Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant disaster, which occurred in 2011, resulted from a catastrophic 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. These natural disasters led to the meltdown of three of the plant's reactors, resulting in a severe nuclear crisis.</p>

<h2><strong>Initiation of wastewater release</strong></h2>

<p>On August 24, Japan officially commenced the release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the operator of the plant, estimated that this discharge would equate to the volume of water found in approximately 540 Olympic-sized swimming pools.</p>

<p>A live video broadcast by TEPCO depicted the start of the wastewater release. Engineers closely monitored the operation from their computer screens. The release began with the opening of valves near the seawater transport pumps at the plant.</p>

<p>Both the Japanese government and the operators of the nuclear plant have maintained that the wastewater release is safe. However, this action has garnered strong objections from various countries, including China.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-begins-releasing-wastewater-from-fukushima-nuclear-plant-operator-628601">Japan begins releasing wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant amid fears of sea contamination</a></p>

<h2><strong>International support and monitoring</strong></h2>

<p>The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, has endorsed the plan to release the wastewater. IAEA monitors were present on-site during the procedure to ensure compliance with safety standards. TEPCO workers are scheduled to collect water samples for analysis.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;North Korea's second attempt to launch spy satellite fails: State media</strong></p>

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<p>The wastewater release has sparked controversy and public outcry. Prior to the release, a small protest took place near the plant site, and approximately 100 individuals protested outside TEPCO's headquarters in Tokyo. In South Korea, more than 10 people were arrested as they attempted to enter the Japanese embassy in Seoul to protest against the release.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">China strongly criticised Japan's wastewater release plan, labelling it as "extremely selfish and irresponsible." China's Ministry of Environment expressed its intent to closely monitor and study the impact of the wastewater release on its waters.</div>

<p>TEPCO has been collecting contaminated water since 2011 as part of its efforts to cool down the damaged reactors. To date, they have accumulated approximately 1.34 million cubic meters of such water.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, North Korea's foreign ministry called for an immediate halt to Japan's release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant into the ocean.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, North Korea's foreign ministry called for an immediate halt to Japan's release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant into the ocean. The statement, conveyed via the official Korean Central News Agency, characterised the release as "dangerous" and claimed it posed a significant threat to global security and the future of humanity. "Japan should immediately withdraw the dangerous release of radioactive wastewater which seriously threatens the lives, safety and the future of humanity," the statement said. The Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant disaster, which occurred in 2011, resulted from a catastrophic 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. These natural disasters led to the meltdown of three of the plant's reactors, resulting in a severe nuclear crisis. Initiation of wastewater release On August 24, Japan officially commenced the release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the operator of the plant, estimated that this discharge would equate to the volume of water found in approximately 540 Olympic-sized swimming pools. A live video broadcast by TEPCO depicted the start of the wastewater release. Engineers closely monitored the operation from their computer screens. The release began with the opening of valves near the seawater transport pumps at the plant. Both the Japanese government and the operators of the nuclear plant have maintained that the wastewater release is safe. However, this action has garnered strong objections from various countries, including China. Also read | Japan begins releasing wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant amid fears of sea contamination International support and monitoring The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, has endorsed the plan to release the wastewater. IAEA monitors were present on-site during the procedure to ensure compliance with safety standards. TEPCO workers are scheduled to collect water samples for analysis. Also watch | North Korea's second attempt to launch spy satellite fails: State media The wastewater release has sparked controversy and public outcry. Prior to the release, a small protest took place near the plant site, and approximately 100 individuals protested outside TEPCO's headquarters in Tokyo. In South Korea, more than 10 people were arrested as they attempted to enter the Japanese embassy in Seoul to protest against the release. China strongly criticised Japan's wastewater release plan, labelling it as "extremely selfish and irresponsible." China's Ministry of Environment expressed its intent to closely monitor and study the impact of the wastewater release on its waters. TEPCO has been collecting contaminated water since 2011 as part of its efforts to cool down the damaged reactors. To date, they have accumulated approximately 1.34 million cubic meters of such water. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

N Korea slams Japan's release of treated nuclear wastewater from Fukushima, demands immediate halt

Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant had a huge task at hand even after protests and anger warnings the country started pumping more than a million metric tons of radioactive water into the sea. Tokyo claims it is treated but not everyone is convinced. Tokyo's Electric Power Company has released footage showing the start of the Fukushima water release.

Tokyo begins releasing Fukushima wastewater, neighbours raise concerns

<p>Japan issued a warning on Friday (Aug 25) to its citizens living in China to remain incognito for a while after Beijing slammed Tokyo over the release of radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant.</p>

<p>It also asked its people “not to speak Japanese loudly” while out in public as it may attract any unwarranted action.</p>

<p>"When going out, try to be cautious, such as not speaking Japanese loudly unnecessarily," the Japanese embassy said in an alert posted on its website on Friday.</p>

<p>The embassy also warned its people to "pay close attention to the surroundings of the embassy" if planning to visit.</p>

<h2><strong>Japanese consulates in Hong Kong and South Korea on alert</strong></h2>

<p>Similar warnings were also issued in Chinese-ruled Hong Kong and South Korea asking citizens to “behave cautiously”.</p>

<p>Japan's consulate in Hong Kong has warned of protests there relating to the water release, after 100 marchers took to the streets on Thursday (Aug 24) objecting to the discharge.</p>

<p>In South Korea, Japan's embassy issued a notice advising its citizens there to avoid "unnecessary trouble" due to a rally planned around the embassy.</p>

<p>On Thursday, the police in Seoul arrested 16 protesters who entered the Japanese embassy in the capital city.</p>

<h2><strong>Tokyo begins releasing Fukushima wastewater, neighbours raise concerns</strong></h2>

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<p>Meanwhile, China has banned all seafood from Japan after the discharge of 1m tonnes of radioactive water from the ruined Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>The ban began immediately affecting all imports of “aquatic products” including seafood.</p>

<h2><strong>China defends marine food ban move</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Justifying its move, China’s customs agency said that it risks the “radioactive contamination of food safety”. China’s foreign ministry said it was an “extremely selfish and irresponsible act”.</p>

<p>But Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco), the company that manages the plant, said rapid tests of samples taken from the first batch of released wastewater showed radioactivity levels well within safe limits.</p>

<p>“We confirmed that the analysed value is equal to the calculated concentration and that the analysed value is below 1,500 becquerels per litre,” a Tepco spokesperson, Keisuke Matsuo, told reporters. The national safety standard is 60,000 becquerels a litre.</p>

<p>Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also said that his government used diplomatic channels to request China to lift the ban.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“We strongly encourage discussion among experts based on scientific grounds,” Kishida told reporters, according to the Kyodo news agency.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Japan issued a warning on Friday (Aug 25) to its citizens living in China to remain incognito for a while after Beijing slammed Tokyo over the release of radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant.

Japan issued a warning on Friday (Aug 25) to its citizens living in China to remain incognito for a while after Beijing slammed Tokyo over the release of radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant. It also asked its people “not to speak Japanese loudly” while out in public as it may attract any unwarranted action. "When going out, try to be cautious, such as not speaking Japanese loudly unnecessarily," the Japanese embassy said in an alert posted on its website on Friday. The embassy also warned its people to "pay close attention to the surroundings of the embassy" if planning to visit. Japanese consulates in Hong Kong and South Korea on alert Similar warnings were also issued in Chinese-ruled Hong Kong and South Korea asking citizens to “behave cautiously”. Japan's consulate in Hong Kong has warned of protests there relating to the water release, after 100 marchers took to the streets on Thursday (Aug 24) objecting to the discharge. In South Korea, Japan's embassy issued a notice advising its citizens there to avoid "unnecessary trouble" due to a rally planned around the embassy. On Thursday, the police in Seoul arrested 16 protesters who entered the Japanese embassy in the capital city. Tokyo begins releasing Fukushima wastewater, neighbours raise concerns Meanwhile, China has banned all seafood from Japan after the discharge of 1m tonnes of radioactive water from the ruined Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. The ban began immediately affecting all imports of “aquatic products” including seafood. China defends marine food ban move Justifying its move, China’s customs agency said that it risks the “radioactive contamination of food safety”. China’s foreign ministry said it was an “extremely selfish and irresponsible act”. But Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco), the company that manages the plant, said rapid tests of samples taken from the first batch of released wastewater showed radioactivity levels well within safe limits. “We confirmed that the analysed value is equal to the calculated concentration and that the analysed value is below 1,500 becquerels per litre,” a Tepco spokesperson, Keisuke Matsuo, told reporters. The national safety standard is 60,000 becquerels a litre. Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also said that his government used diplomatic channels to request China to lift the ban. “We strongly encourage discussion among experts based on scientific grounds,” Kishida told reporters, according to the Kyodo news agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Don’t speak loudly’: Japan issues warning to citizens living in China over Fukushima water discharge row

<p>Japan on Thursday (August 24) began releasing treated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima-Daiich nuclear plant, said TEPCO, the operator of the plant. The discharge will release around 540 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water into the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>In 2011, the Fukushima nuclear plant was destroyed after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake triggered a tsunami and caused meltdowns of three of its reactors.</p>

<p>A video broadcast from TEPCO showed the wastewater release had begun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The live video showed engineers sitting behind computer screens.</p>

<p>"Now, valves near the seawater transport pumps are opening," a TEPCO official said via&nbsp;video link from the site broadcast at the company's Tokyo headquarters.</p>

<p>The nuclear plant and Japanese government have&nbsp;been insisting that the release of wastewater is safe, but the operation has generated strong reaction from countries including China.</p>

<p>The release is a vital step in decommissioning the nuclear plants which saw one of the world's worst nuclear accidents 12 years ago.</p>

<p>International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN's atomic watchdog, has endorsed the plan of release of wastewater. The monitors from the IAEA were on site for the procedure.</p>

<p>TEPCO workers will take water samples later on Thursday.</p>

<h2><strong>'Like an atomic bomb'</strong></h2>

<p>The release of wastewater has been a controversial topic. Ahead of the release, there was a small protest near the site and about 100 others protested outside TEPCO headquarters in Tokyo.</p>

<p>"It's like dumping an atomic bomb in the ocean. Japan is the first country that was attacked with an atomic bomb in the world, and the prime minister of the country made this decision," said Kenichi Sato, 68, as quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>More than 10 people have been&nbsp;arrested after they tried&nbsp;entering the Japanese embassy in South Korean capital Seoul to protest against the wastewater release.</p>

<p>China on Thursday slammed Japan's plan as "extremely selfish and irresponsible". Chinese environment ministry has said that it will "track and study" impact of wastewater release on its waters.</p>

<p>Since 2011, TEPCO has collected 1.34 million cubic metres of contaminated water as it cooled down the wrecked reactors.</p>

<p>There are four releases of treated water planned from Thursday until March 2024. First discharge will take about 17 days. In this fiscal year, about 5 trillion becquerels - a measure of radioactivity - of tritium will be released, said TEPCO.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Japan on Thursday (August 24) began releasing treated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima-Daiich nuclear plant, said TEPCO, the operator of the plant. The discharge will release around 540 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water into the Pacific Ocean.

Japan on Thursday (August 24) began releasing treated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima-Daiich nuclear plant, said TEPCO, the operator of the plant. The discharge will release around 540 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water into the Pacific Ocean. In 2011, the Fukushima nuclear plant was destroyed after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake triggered a tsunami and caused meltdowns of three of its reactors. A video broadcast from TEPCO showed the wastewater release had begun. The live video showed engineers sitting behind computer screens. "Now, valves near the seawater transport pumps are opening," a TEPCO official said via video link from the site broadcast at the company's Tokyo headquarters. The nuclear plant and Japanese government have been insisting that the release of wastewater is safe, but the operation has generated strong reaction from countries including China. The release is a vital step in decommissioning the nuclear plants which saw one of the world's worst nuclear accidents 12 years ago. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN's atomic watchdog, has endorsed the plan of release of wastewater. The monitors from the IAEA were on site for the procedure. TEPCO workers will take water samples later on Thursday. 'Like an atomic bomb' The release of wastewater has been a controversial topic. Ahead of the release, there was a small protest near the site and about 100 others protested outside TEPCO headquarters in Tokyo. "It's like dumping an atomic bomb in the ocean. Japan is the first country that was attacked with an atomic bomb in the world, and the prime minister of the country made this decision," said Kenichi Sato, 68, as quoted by Reuters. More than 10 people have been arrested after they tried entering the Japanese embassy in South Korean capital Seoul to protest against the wastewater release. China on Thursday slammed Japan's plan as "extremely selfish and irresponsible". Chinese environment ministry has said that it will "track and study" impact of wastewater release on its waters. Since 2011, TEPCO has collected 1.34 million cubic metres of contaminated water as it cooled down the wrecked reactors. There are four releases of treated water planned from Thursday until March 2024. First discharge will take about 17 days. In this fiscal year, about 5 trillion becquerels - a measure of radioactivity - of tritium will be released, said TEPCO. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan begins releasing wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant amid fears of sea contamination

<p>The family members of a 26-year-old doctor, who committed suicide last year, claimed that work-life imbalance and working more than 200 hours overtime every month took a toll on him as they called for a change in the overwork culture which has plagued the country for years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Takashima Shingo was posted as a resident doctor at a hospital in Kobe City when he committed suicide last May, as per the public broadcaster NHK.</p>

<p>According to the lawyers of the family, Takashima had to work more than 207 hours of overtime in the month of April and could not take a day off for three months, reported NHK.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, Hospital Konan Medical Centre refuted the allegations in a press conference. However, in June, the labour inspection body of the government ruled that the man's death was a work-related incident because of prolonged working hours, as per NHK, which also highlighted the immense pressure that health care workers face.</p>

<p>For long, Japan has battled a persistent overwork culture, as employees across different sectors report punishing hours, deference to the company and high pressure from supervisors, as per the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-us-south-korea-and-japan-over-their-statements-on-south-china-sea-627643">China slams US, South Korea and Japan over their statements on South China Sea</a></p>

<p>The mental health toll and increasing stress have also caused a phenomenon called “karoshi,” or “death by overwork”, which resulted in legislation aimed at preventing injury and death from excessive work hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a press conference last Friday (August 18), the family of Takashima claimed that the young man was driven to desperation and expressed their sorrow over his sudden demise.</p>

<h2><strong>'Too hard', complained the man who committed suicide</strong></h2>

<p>Before his suicide, his mother Junko Takashima stated that the doctor would complain “it was too hard” and that “no one would help him,” as per a video published by local media of the news conference.</p>

<p>“'No one is looking out for me,' he kept telling me. I think the environment put him over the edge. My son will not become a kind doctor, nor will he be able to save patients and contribute to society,” she stated. “However, I sincerely hope that the working environment for doctors will improve&nbsp;so that the same thing will not happen again in the future," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Japan: Fukushima Nuclear plant to begin release of 1.34 metric tonnes of water | WION Dispatch</strong></p>

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<p>The brother of Takashima, speaking at the news conference, said, “No matter how we look at my brother’s work hours, 200 hours (of overtime) is an unbelievable number, and I don’t think the hospital is taking a solid approach to labour management in the first place.”</p>

<p>Last week, the Konan Medical Centre pushed back the allegations in the press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There are many times when (doctors) spend time studying on their own and sleeping according to their physiological needs. Due to the very high degree of freedom, it is not possible to accurately determine working hours," said a spokesperson.</p>

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The family members of a 26-year-old doctor, who committed suicide last year, claimed that work-life imbalance and working more than 200 hours overtime every month took a toll on him as they called for a change in the overwork culture which has plagued the country for years.

The family members of a 26-year-old doctor, who committed suicide last year, claimed that work-life imbalance and working more than 200 hours overtime every month took a toll on him as they called for a change in the overwork culture which has plagued the country for years. Takashima Shingo was posted as a resident doctor at a hospital in Kobe City when he committed suicide last May, as per the public broadcaster NHK. According to the lawyers of the family, Takashima had to work more than 207 hours of overtime in the month of April and could not take a day off for three months, reported NHK. Last week, Hospital Konan Medical Centre refuted the allegations in a press conference. However, in June, the labour inspection body of the government ruled that the man's death was a work-related incident because of prolonged working hours, as per NHK, which also highlighted the immense pressure that health care workers face. For long, Japan has battled a persistent overwork culture, as employees across different sectors report punishing hours, deference to the company and high pressure from supervisors, as per the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. ALSO READ | China slams US, South Korea and Japan over their statements on South China Sea The mental health toll and increasing stress have also caused a phenomenon called “karoshi,” or “death by overwork”, which resulted in legislation aimed at preventing injury and death from excessive work hours. In a press conference last Friday (August 18), the family of Takashima claimed that the young man was driven to desperation and expressed their sorrow over his sudden demise. 'Too hard', complained the man who committed suicide Before his suicide, his mother Junko Takashima stated that the doctor would complain “it was too hard” and that “no one would help him,” as per a video published by local media of the news conference. “'No one is looking out for me,' he kept telling me. I think the environment put him over the edge. My son will not become a kind doctor, nor will he be able to save patients and contribute to society,” she stated. “However, I sincerely hope that the working environment for doctors will improve so that the same thing will not happen again in the future," she added. WATCH | Japan: Fukushima Nuclear plant to begin release of 1.34 metric tonnes of water | WION Dispatch The brother of Takashima, speaking at the news conference, said, “No matter how we look at my brother’s work hours, 200 hours (of overtime) is an unbelievable number, and I don’t think the hospital is taking a solid approach to labour management in the first place.” Last week, the Konan Medical Centre pushed back the allegations in the press conference. “There are many times when (doctors) spend time studying on their own and sleeping according to their physiological needs. Due to the very high degree of freedom, it is not possible to accurately determine working hours," said a spokesperson. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan: Family of young doctor claims working overtime for over 200 hours a month took his life

Japan's plan to release treated radioactive water into the ocean, led several to protest in south korea's capital. Demonstrators staged a rally in central Seoul, to show their disagreement against the plan. The plan is all set to be implemented on August 24th from the destroyed Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Japan Fukushima wastewater release plan: China bans all Japanese seafood imports

<p>Japan began&nbsp;releasing millions of tonnes of treated radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday (August 24), a move that has already triggered strong opposition from neighbouring countries.</p>

<p>An estimated 1.34 million tonnes of radioactive water— enough to fill 500 Olympic-size pools—has&nbsp;accumulated in the tank at the site since the 2011 tsunami incident.</p>

<p>The water will be released over 30 years after being filtered and diluted.</p>

<p>The Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco)—the nuclear plant’s operator—has been designated to execute the plan.</p>

<p>The release of water has started&nbsp;a month after Japan’s nuclear regulator gave the nod to Tepco to start releasing the water, which has been termed “safe” by the Japanese government and the International Atomic Energy Agency amidst fears expressed by neighbouring countries that the water may contaminate food.</p>

<h2><strong>How will contaminated water get discharged?</strong></h2>

<p>The 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water that is stored in huge tanks on the site has been filtered through Tepco’s advanced liquid processing system (Alps) to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium—an isotope of hydrogen that is difficult to separate from water.</p>

<p>The “treated” water, as Japan has objected to the use of the word “contaminated”, will be diluted with seawater so that the concentration of tritium is well below regulatory-approved levels before being released into the ocean one&nbsp;kilometre from the shoreline via an undersea tunnel.</p>

<p>This practice is common around the world and regulatory authorities support dealing with the Fukushima water in this way.</p>

<p>According to experts, tritium is relatively harmless as its radiation is not strong enough to affect human skin.</p>

<p>When ingested at levels above those in the released water, it can raise cancer risks, a Scientific American article said in 2014.</p>

<p>It is estimated that the water discharge would take decades to complete, with ongoing filtering and dilution, alongside the planned decommissioning of the plant.</p>

<h2><strong>The safety concerns </strong></h2>

<p>Though the Japanese government and the IAEA have asserted that the so-called “treated” water is safe, environmental activists have raised concerns arguing that all the possible impacts have not been studied.</p>

<p>The UN nuclear watchdog, which approved the plan in July, says that Japan is meeting the international standards of discharging the water and reiterated that it would have a “negligible” impact on people and the environment.</p>

<p>On Tuesday&nbsp;(Aug 22), Greenpeace said that the radiological risks have not been fully assessed and that the biological impacts of tritium, carbon-14, strontium-90 and iodine-129 —to be released with the water —"have been ignored”.</p>

<p>But&nbsp;Tepco and Japan have argued that the filtering process will remove strontium-90 and iodine-129, adding that the concentration of carbon-14 in the contaminated water would be far lower than its regulatory standard for discharge.</p>

<p>The government will take "appropriate measures, including immediate suspension of the discharge" if an unusually high concentration&nbsp;of radioactive materials is detected, the Japanese government document said, according to Reuters news agency.</p>

<p>The South Korean government, too, concurred with Japan, saying that its own study conducted recently has indicated that the water release meets international standards and said it respects the IAEA's assessment.</p>

<h2><strong>The opposition</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from Japan’s neighbouring countries, many people, including fishermen in Japan, have expressed opposition fearing that the discharged treated water might affect their livelihoods.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, a crowd of protesters staged a rally outside the prime minister's official residence, urging the government to stop the release.</p>

<p>But the most vocal opposition came from China, which accused Japan of treating the ocean like its "private sewer."</p>

<p>Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin reiterated Beijing's objection on Tuesday, adding it would take "necessary measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and public health".</p>

<p>Japan is "putting its own self-interest over the long-term well-being of all humankind" with the release of wastewater, Wang said.</p>

<p>Hong Kong said it would "immediately activate" import curbs on some Japanese food products.</p>

<p>Both South Korea and China have already banned fish imports from around Fukushima.</p>

<h2><strong>Hong Kong's ban on Japanese seafood</strong></h2>

<p>Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the release was "irresponsible" and posed "impossible risks to food&nbsp;safety" and risked "irreparable pollution and destruction of the marine environment".</p>

<p>Lee, in a post on his Facebook account, said he had told Environment Secretary Tse Chin-wan and relevant departments to immediately activate import controls to protect food safety and public health.</p>

<p>"There is no timetable at this point about how long the ban will last," Tse told a press conference, adding that a decision would depend on data and information from Japan after the discharge.</p>

<p>The measure covers live, frozen, refrigerated, dried aquatic products, sea salt and seaweed.</p>

<p>Hong Kong is Japan's second-largest market, after mainland China, for agricultural and fisheries exports.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Japan began releasing millions of tonnes of treated radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday (August 24), a move that has already triggered strong opposition from neighbouring countries.

Japan began releasing millions of tonnes of treated radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday (August 24), a move that has already triggered strong opposition from neighbouring countries. An estimated 1.34 million tonnes of radioactive water— enough to fill 500 Olympic-size pools—has accumulated in the tank at the site since the 2011 tsunami incident. The water will be released over 30 years after being filtered and diluted. The Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco)—the nuclear plant’s operator—has been designated to execute the plan. The release of water has started a month after Japan’s nuclear regulator gave the nod to Tepco to start releasing the water, which has been termed “safe” by the Japanese government and the International Atomic Energy Agency amidst fears expressed by neighbouring countries that the water may contaminate food. How will contaminated water get discharged? The 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water that is stored in huge tanks on the site has been filtered through Tepco’s advanced liquid processing system (Alps) to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium—an isotope of hydrogen that is difficult to separate from water. The “treated” water, as Japan has objected to the use of the word “contaminated”, will be diluted with seawater so that the concentration of tritium is well below regulatory-approved levels before being released into the ocean one kilometre from the shoreline via an undersea tunnel. This practice is common around the world and regulatory authorities support dealing with the Fukushima water in this way. According to experts, tritium is relatively harmless as its radiation is not strong enough to affect human skin. When ingested at levels above those in the released water, it can raise cancer risks, a Scientific American article said in 2014. It is estimated that the water discharge would take decades to complete, with ongoing filtering and dilution, alongside the planned decommissioning of the plant. The safety concerns Though the Japanese government and the IAEA have asserted that the so-called “treated” water is safe, environmental activists have raised concerns arguing that all the possible impacts have not been studied. The UN nuclear watchdog, which approved the plan in July, says that Japan is meeting the international standards of discharging the water and reiterated that it would have a “negligible” impact on people and the environment. On Tuesday (Aug 22), Greenpeace said that the radiological risks have not been fully assessed and that the biological impacts of tritium, carbon-14, strontium-90 and iodine-129 —to be released with the water —"have been ignored”. But Tepco and Japan have argued that the filtering process will remove strontium-90 and iodine-129, adding that the concentration of carbon-14 in the contaminated water would be far lower than its regulatory standard for discharge. The government will take "appropriate measures, including immediate suspension of the discharge" if an unusually high concentration of radioactive materials is detected, the Japanese government document said, according to Reuters news agency. The South Korean government, too, concurred with Japan, saying that its own study conducted recently has indicated that the water release meets international standards and said it respects the IAEA's assessment. The opposition Apart from Japan’s neighbouring countries, many people, including fishermen in Japan, have expressed opposition fearing that the discharged treated water might affect their livelihoods. On Tuesday, a crowd of protesters staged a rally outside the prime minister's official residence, urging the government to stop the release. But the most vocal opposition came from China, which accused Japan of treating the ocean like its "private sewer." Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin reiterated Beijing's objection on Tuesday, adding it would take "necessary measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and public health". Japan is "putting its own self-interest over the long-term well-being of all humankind" with the release of wastewater, Wang said. Hong Kong said it would "immediately activate" import curbs on some Japanese food products. Both South Korea and China have already banned fish imports from around Fukushima. Hong Kong's ban on Japanese seafood Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the release was "irresponsible" and posed "impossible risks to food safety" and risked "irreparable pollution and destruction of the marine environment". Lee, in a post on his Facebook account, said he had told Environment Secretary Tse Chin-wan and relevant departments to immediately activate import controls to protect food safety and public health. "There is no timetable at this point about how long the ban will last," Tse told a press conference, adding that a decision would depend on data and information from Japan after the discharge. The measure covers live, frozen, refrigerated, dried aquatic products, sea salt and seaweed. Hong Kong is Japan's second-largest market, after mainland China, for agricultural and fisheries exports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | Row over planned release of radioactive water from Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant

The Japanese Prime Minister has announced that the wastewater released from the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant. Japan says that the discharge of treated radioactive water is safe.

Row over release of radioactive water as Fukushima water release to begin on Thursday | WION

Japan to release 1.3 metric tonnes of Fukushima radioactive wastewater

<p>Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday (August 22) announced that the release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific will start on Thursday (August 24), amid opposition from fishermen and China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Japan continues to claim that it is safe to slowly release more than 500 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water. United Nations atomic agency has been supporting Japan's viewpoint.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will request TEPCO to promptly prepare for the start of oceanic discharge based on the plan approved by the Nuclear Regulation Authority, with discharge expected to be August 24 if weather and sea conditions do not hinder it," said Kishida on Tuesday after a meeting of ministers in Tokyo, which referred to the plant's operator.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 18,000 people were killed due to a massive earthquake and tsunami&nbsp;in March 2011, with the&nbsp;Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant also being affected,&nbsp;turning the event into one of the worst-ever atomic disasters in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-pm-kishida-visits-fukushima-plant-to-discuss-timing-for-release-of-treated-radioactive-water-627206">Japanese PM Kishida visits Fukushima plant, to discuss timing for release of treated radioactive water</a></p>

<p>Since then, 1.34 million tonnes of water, which was used to cool&nbsp;highly radioactive reactors, has been collected by operator TEPCO and mixed with groundwater and rain that has seeped in. TEPCO claimed that the water was filtered and diluted for the removal of all radioactive substances except for&nbsp;tritium, which is below dangerous levels.</p>

<h2><strong>Water to be released at a maximum rate of 500,000 litres per day</strong></h2>

<p>The water will be released from the plant into the ocean off Japan's northeast coast at a maximum rate of 500,000 litres per day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Environmental pressure group Greenpeace called the filtration process 'flawed' and said that in the coming decades, an "immense" quantity of radioactive waste will be spread into the sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A nuclear expert from the University of Adelaide, Tony Hooker while speaking to AFP news agency, dismissed that as "fear-mongering". "Tritium has been released (by nuclear power plants) for decades with no evidential detrimental environmental or health effects," Hooker said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Japan's Kishida visits Fukushima plant to highlight safety before start of treated water release</strong></p>

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<p>In July, the UN atomic watchdog said that the release would have a "negligible radiological impact on people and the environment".</p>

<p>However, a lot of South Koreans are alarmed at the prospect of water's release from the plant and have been protesting as well as stocking up on sea salt in case there is contamination.</p>

<p>But the government of President Yoon Suk Yeol, taking political risks at home, is aiming at improvising long-frosty relations with Japan and has not objected to the plan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday (August 22) announced that the release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific will start on Thursday (August 24), amid opposition from fishermen and China.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday (August 22) announced that the release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific will start on Thursday (August 24), amid opposition from fishermen and China. Japan continues to claim that it is safe to slowly release more than 500 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water. United Nations atomic agency has been supporting Japan's viewpoint. "We will request TEPCO to promptly prepare for the start of oceanic discharge based on the plan approved by the Nuclear Regulation Authority, with discharge expected to be August 24 if weather and sea conditions do not hinder it," said Kishida on Tuesday after a meeting of ministers in Tokyo, which referred to the plant's operator. Around 18,000 people were killed due to a massive earthquake and tsunami in March 2011, with the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant also being affected, turning the event into one of the worst-ever atomic disasters in the world. ALSO READ | Japanese PM Kishida visits Fukushima plant, to discuss timing for release of treated radioactive water Since then, 1.34 million tonnes of water, which was used to cool highly radioactive reactors, has been collected by operator TEPCO and mixed with groundwater and rain that has seeped in. TEPCO claimed that the water was filtered and diluted for the removal of all radioactive substances except for tritium, which is below dangerous levels. Water to be released at a maximum rate of 500,000 litres per day The water will be released from the plant into the ocean off Japan's northeast coast at a maximum rate of 500,000 litres per day. Environmental pressure group Greenpeace called the filtration process 'flawed' and said that in the coming decades, an "immense" quantity of radioactive waste will be spread into the sea. A nuclear expert from the University of Adelaide, Tony Hooker while speaking to AFP news agency, dismissed that as "fear-mongering". "Tritium has been released (by nuclear power plants) for decades with no evidential detrimental environmental or health effects," Hooker said. WATCH | Japan's Kishida visits Fukushima plant to highlight safety before start of treated water release In July, the UN atomic watchdog said that the release would have a "negligible radiological impact on people and the environment". However, a lot of South Koreans are alarmed at the prospect of water's release from the plant and have been protesting as well as stocking up on sea salt in case there is contamination. But the government of President Yoon Suk Yeol, taking political risks at home, is aiming at improvising long-frosty relations with Japan and has not objected to the plan. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant to start releasing wastewater on Thursday

<p>China on Tuesday (August 22) expressed grave concern over Japan’s announcement to release wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean, saying that it was extremely 'irresponsible' on Tokyo's part to take such a decision.</p>

<p>"The Government of Japan has defied the serious concerns and resolute opposition of the international community. It has insisted on announcing that the discharge of contaminated water from Fukushima will start on August 24. It is blatantly transferring the risk of nuclear contamination to the whole world and putting its own selfish interests above the long-term well-being of all humankind,"&nbsp;China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said.</p>

<p>"This is extremely selfish and irresponsible. China is gravely concerned about and strongly opposes it, and has made solemn representations to the Japanese side."</p>

<p>Wang added that Japan should "rectify its wrongful decision" and dispose of nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner.</p>

<p>"China strongly urges the Japanese side to rectify its wrongful decision and withdraw its plan to discharge nuclear-contaminated water into the sea. It should communicate in good faith with its neighbours in a sincere manner.</p>

<p>"Dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner and accept strict international supervision. China will take all necessary measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and public health," he said at a press briefing.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-curb-some-japan-food-imports-over-fukushima-city-leader-627809"> </a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-curb-some-japan-food-imports-over-fukushima-city-leader-627809">Hong Kong to curb some Japan food imports over Fukushima: City leader</a></p>

<p>Accusing Japan of planning to arbitrarily dump nuclear-contaminated water, China said, "the ocean is the common property of all humankind, not a place for Japan to arbitrarily dump nuclear-contaminated water".</p>

<p>Beijing would take "necessary measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and public health," said the spokesperson.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Japan to start releasing Fukushima&nbsp;wastewater on Thursday</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday (August 22), Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced that the wastewater from the tsunami-wrecked nuclear plant will be released into the Pacific Ocean starting Thursday.</p>

<p>Japan continues to claim that it is safe to slowly release more than 500 Olympic swimming pools' amount of water.</p>

<p>United Nations atomic agency has been supporting Japan's viewpoint.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will request TEPCO to promptly prepare for the start of oceanic discharge based on the plan approved by the Nuclear Regulation Authority, with discharge expected to be August 24 if weather and sea conditions do not hinder it," said Kishida on Tuesday after a meeting of ministers in Tokyo, which referred to the plant's operator.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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China on Tuesday (August 22) expressed grave concern over Japan’s announcement to release wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean, saying that it was extremely 'irresponsible' on Tokyo's part to take such a decision.

China on Tuesday (August 22) expressed grave concern over Japan’s announcement to release wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean, saying that it was extremely 'irresponsible' on Tokyo's part to take such a decision. "The Government of Japan has defied the serious concerns and resolute opposition of the international community. It has insisted on announcing that the discharge of contaminated water from Fukushima will start on August 24. It is blatantly transferring the risk of nuclear contamination to the whole world and putting its own selfish interests above the long-term well-being of all humankind," China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said. "This is extremely selfish and irresponsible. China is gravely concerned about and strongly opposes it, and has made solemn representations to the Japanese side." Wang added that Japan should "rectify its wrongful decision" and dispose of nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner. "China strongly urges the Japanese side to rectify its wrongful decision and withdraw its plan to discharge nuclear-contaminated water into the sea. It should communicate in good faith with its neighbours in a sincere manner. "Dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner and accept strict international supervision. China will take all necessary measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and public health," he said at a press briefing. Also read: Hong Kong to curb some Japan food imports over Fukushima: City leader Accusing Japan of planning to arbitrarily dump nuclear-contaminated water, China said, "the ocean is the common property of all humankind, not a place for Japan to arbitrarily dump nuclear-contaminated water". Beijing would take "necessary measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and public health," said the spokesperson. Japan to start releasing Fukushima wastewater on Thursday On Tuesday (August 22), Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced that the wastewater from the tsunami-wrecked nuclear plant will be released into the Pacific Ocean starting Thursday. Japan continues to claim that it is safe to slowly release more than 500 Olympic swimming pools' amount of water. United Nations atomic agency has been supporting Japan's viewpoint. "We will request TEPCO to promptly prepare for the start of oceanic discharge based on the plan approved by the Nuclear Regulation Authority, with discharge expected to be August 24 if weather and sea conditions do not hinder it," said Kishida on Tuesday after a meeting of ministers in Tokyo, which referred to the plant's operator. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China strongly opposes Japan’s decision to release Fukushima water 

Japan: Fukushima Nuclear plant to begin release of 1.34 metric tonnes of water | WION Dispatch

<p>Astronomers in Japan are expecting an extraterrestrial response to radio signals transmitted into space four decades ago, aimed at confirming the presence of extraterrestrial life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report from Asahi Shimbun, Professors Masaki Morimoto and Hisashi Hirabayashi used Stanford University's antenna to send a series of radio signals, including 13 drawings illustrating Earth's history and humanity's appearance, on August 15, 1983.</p>

<p>Now, a team led by Shinya Narusawa at the University of Hyogo is preparing to deploy a 64-metre-wide antenna in Saku, Nagano Prefecture.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/perus-7ft-tall-alien-attackers-are-illegal-gold-mining-gang-claims-officials-624880">Peru’s 7ft-tall ‘alien’ attackers are illegal gold mining gang, claim officials</a></strong></p>

<p>They hope to detect any radio signals in response to the 1983 message.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The astronomers are focusing on Altair, a star 16.7 light years away in the Aquila constellation, expecting a potential response around this time, according to report in Metro.</p>

<p>The team aims to scan the skies for a reply on August 22, coinciding with Tanabata, the 'star festival' in Japan, which is celebrated on the seventh day of the seventh month according to the Lunar Calendar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Narusawa believes that the vast universe likely hosts intelligent life beyond Earth, pointing out the numerous exoplanets discovered since the 1990s.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UFOs and aliens: What's the truth?</strong></p>

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<p>He told Japanese media that Altair, with its potentially habitable planet, is a prime candidate for such extraterrestrial habitat.</p>

<p>Professor Masaki Morimoto was a Japanese pioneer in the field known as the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). He worked at the Tokyo Astronomical Observatory of the University of Tokyo, now part of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan. He died in 2010.</p>

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Astronomers in Japan are expecting an extraterrestrial response to radio signals transmitted into space four decades ago, aimed at confirming the presence of extraterrestrial life.

Astronomers in Japan are expecting an extraterrestrial response to radio signals transmitted into space four decades ago, aimed at confirming the presence of extraterrestrial life. According to a report from Asahi Shimbun, Professors Masaki Morimoto and Hisashi Hirabayashi used Stanford University's antenna to send a series of radio signals, including 13 drawings illustrating Earth's history and humanity's appearance, on August 15, 1983. Now, a team led by Shinya Narusawa at the University of Hyogo is preparing to deploy a 64-metre-wide antenna in Saku, Nagano Prefecture. Also read | Peru’s 7ft-tall ‘alien’ attackers are illegal gold mining gang, claim officials They hope to detect any radio signals in response to the 1983 message. The astronomers are focusing on Altair, a star 16.7 light years away in the Aquila constellation, expecting a potential response around this time, according to report in Metro. The team aims to scan the skies for a reply on August 22, coinciding with Tanabata, the 'star festival' in Japan, which is celebrated on the seventh day of the seventh month according to the Lunar Calendar. Narusawa believes that the vast universe likely hosts intelligent life beyond Earth, pointing out the numerous exoplanets discovered since the 1990s. Also watch | UFOs and aliens: What's the truth? × He told Japanese media that Altair, with its potentially habitable planet, is a prime candidate for such extraterrestrial habitat. Professor Masaki Morimoto was a Japanese pioneer in the field known as the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). He worked at the Tokyo Astronomical Observatory of the University of Tokyo, now part of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan. He died in 2010. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Do aliens exist? Response to a message sent 40 years back holds the answer

Reports say the Japanese military is hiding thousands of sexual harassment cases and victims are too afraid to report the incidents. Is the Japanese military's image stained? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Sexual harassment cases mount on the Japanese military

<p>Hong Kong leader John Lee said Tuesday that he had instructed his government to "immediately activate" import curbs on some Japanese food after Tokyo announced it would release water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean.</p>

<p>"The Japanese government has decided on its own to discharge nuclear wastewater into the sea," Hong Kong leader John Lee said in a Facebook post.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-air-defence-intercepts-and-downs-two-attack-drones-near-moscow-627704">Russian Air Defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow</a></p>

<p>"I express my strong objections," he added, calling the move "irresponsible" as it disregarded food safety and environmental risks.</p>

<p>He went on to say he had "instructed the Secretary for the Environment and Ecology and relevant departments to immediately activate the import control measures to protect food safety and public health in Hong Kong".</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-threatens-thermonuclear-war-over-camp-david-summit-and-us-south-korea-drills-627702">North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills</a></p>

<p>Japan, for its part, insists the gradual release into the sea of the more than 500 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water that has accumulated at the stricken nuclear plant is safe, a view backed by the UN atomic agency.</p>

<p>Hong Kong is the second-largest receiver of Japanese food imports, after mainland China, according to Japan's ministry of agriculture.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes</strong></p>

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<p>Last month, the city announced that it planned to "prohibit the import of aquatic products originating from 10 prefectures" in Japan if the country went ahead with its wastewater discharge.</p>

<p>The announcement followed a similar one by China's General Administration of Customs, which had threatened a blanket ban on all foodstuffs from the areas.</p>

<p>The 10 prefectures named were Tokyo, Fukushima, Chiba, Tochigi, Ibaraki, Gunma, Miyagi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama.</p>

<p>Japan's diplomatic representatives in Hong Kong have opposed the import curbs and have met with Lee and senior government officials in recent weeks.</p>

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Hong Kong leader John Lee said Tuesday that he had instructed his government to "immediately activate" import curbs on some Japanese food after Tokyo announced it would release water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean.

Hong Kong leader John Lee said Tuesday that he had instructed his government to "immediately activate" import curbs on some Japanese food after Tokyo announced it would release water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean. "The Japanese government has decided on its own to discharge nuclear wastewater into the sea," Hong Kong leader John Lee said in a Facebook post. Also Read | Russian Air Defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow "I express my strong objections," he added, calling the move "irresponsible" as it disregarded food safety and environmental risks. He went on to say he had "instructed the Secretary for the Environment and Ecology and relevant departments to immediately activate the import control measures to protect food safety and public health in Hong Kong". Also Read | North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills Japan, for its part, insists the gradual release into the sea of the more than 500 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water that has accumulated at the stricken nuclear plant is safe, a view backed by the UN atomic agency. Hong Kong is the second-largest receiver of Japanese food imports, after mainland China, according to Japan's ministry of agriculture. Watch | Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes × Last month, the city announced that it planned to "prohibit the import of aquatic products originating from 10 prefectures" in Japan if the country went ahead with its wastewater discharge. The announcement followed a similar one by China's General Administration of Customs, which had threatened a blanket ban on all foodstuffs from the areas. The 10 prefectures named were Tokyo, Fukushima, Chiba, Tochigi, Ibaraki, Gunma, Miyagi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama. Japan's diplomatic representatives in Hong Kong have opposed the import curbs and have met with Lee and senior government officials in recent weeks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Hong Kong to curb some Japan food imports over Fukushima: City leader

North Korea has told Japan that it plans to launch a satellite in the coming few days according to Japanese officials this would be Pyongyang's second trying to put a military spy satellite into orbit three months after the first effort failed. Japan's Coast Guard says that the North Korean authorities notified them about the plan to launch a satellite from the 24th of August till the end of August however, the notice does not specify what type of satellite it is.

Japan: North Korea planning second spy satellite launch

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida made a brief visit to the tsunami-wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant on Sunday to highlight the safety of an impending release of treated radioactive wastewater into the Pacific Ocean, a divisive plan that his government wants to start soon despite protests at home and abroad.

Japan's Kishida visits Fukushima plant, to finalise wastewater release date

The high-voltage Malabar exercises featuring the navies of all four quad countries - United States, India, Australia and Japan conclude conclude today. The quad drills previously held in the India Ocean were held in Australia for the first time.

China's irrational territorial ambitions: Xi Jinping deploys swarm of satellites at Quad drills

<p>Ahead of the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida paid a visit to the facility on Sunday (August 20), Japan's local media outlets reported. The move comes amid opposition from local fishermen and certain neighbouring countries regarding the disposal plan.&nbsp;Kishida's visit occurred just before a scheduled meeting with his cabinet members on Tuesday (August 22).</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-wildfires-about-30000-in-british-columbia-under-evacuation-order-with-thousands-more-on-alert-627128">Canada wildfires: About 30,000 in British Columbia under evacuation order with thousands more on alert</a></p>

<p>The agenda of the meeting revolves around determining the appropriate timing for commencing the water discharge. According to media reports citing sources, the process is expected to initiate sometime between late August and early September.&nbsp;During a visit to Washington, Kishida revealed that the government is in the conclusive stages of the decision-making process regarding the timing of the water release. He made these statements after attending a three-way summit with the United States and South Korea.</p>

<h2><strong>Origin of contaminated water and treatment</strong></h2>

<p>The Fukushima Daiichi plant, ravaged by an earthquake and subsequent tsunami in 2011, has been producing a substantial volume of contaminated water due to the need to cool melted reactor fuel.</p>

<p>To address this issue, the water has undergone treatment using an advanced liquid processing system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twenty-five-chinese-air-force-planes-crossed-taiwan-straits-median-line-taipei-627130">Twenty-five Chinese air force planes crossed Taiwan Strait's median line: Taipei</a></p>

<p>This system eliminates the majority of radionuclides, excluding tritium. Traces of Tritium, a less harmful radioactive element compared to substances like cesium and strontium, remains present in the treated water.</p>

<p>Storage containers have been employed to hold the treated water, but their capacity is gradually nearing its limit.</p>

<p>Before release, the treated water, containing traces of tritium, will be diluted to a concentration that adheres to Japanese safety standards, one-40th of the concentration permitted. This diluted water will then be discharged through an underwater tunnel situated 1 kilometer from the power plant.&nbsp;The plan to release the treated water into the ocean is facing resistance from local fishermen and certain neighboring countries.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Canada’s British Columbia under state of emergency as Kelowna wildfire rages</strong></p>

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<p>China, for instance, has initiated comprehensive radiation testing of imported Japanese seafood as a response.</p>

<p>In addition to his visit, Kishida intends to meet with the leader of the National Federation of Fisheries Cooperative Associations, potentially scheduled for Monday.&nbsp;The decision to proceed with the water discharge aligns with the endorsement of global safety standards as articulated in the final report of the International Atomic Energy Agency, issued last month.</p>

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Ahead of the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida paid a visit to the facility on Sunday (August 20), Japan's local media outlets reported.

Ahead of the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida paid a visit to the facility on Sunday (August 20), Japan's local media outlets reported. The move comes amid opposition from local fishermen and certain neighbouring countries regarding the disposal plan. Kishida's visit occurred just before a scheduled meeting with his cabinet members on Tuesday (August 22). Also Read | Canada wildfires: About 30,000 in British Columbia under evacuation order with thousands more on alert The agenda of the meeting revolves around determining the appropriate timing for commencing the water discharge. According to media reports citing sources, the process is expected to initiate sometime between late August and early September. During a visit to Washington, Kishida revealed that the government is in the conclusive stages of the decision-making process regarding the timing of the water release. He made these statements after attending a three-way summit with the United States and South Korea. Origin of contaminated water and treatment The Fukushima Daiichi plant, ravaged by an earthquake and subsequent tsunami in 2011, has been producing a substantial volume of contaminated water due to the need to cool melted reactor fuel. To address this issue, the water has undergone treatment using an advanced liquid processing system. Also Read | Twenty-five Chinese air force planes crossed Taiwan Strait's median line: Taipei This system eliminates the majority of radionuclides, excluding tritium. Traces of Tritium, a less harmful radioactive element compared to substances like cesium and strontium, remains present in the treated water. Storage containers have been employed to hold the treated water, but their capacity is gradually nearing its limit. Before release, the treated water, containing traces of tritium, will be diluted to a concentration that adheres to Japanese safety standards, one-40th of the concentration permitted. This diluted water will then be discharged through an underwater tunnel situated 1 kilometer from the power plant. The plan to release the treated water into the ocean is facing resistance from local fishermen and certain neighboring countries. Watch | Canada’s British Columbia under state of emergency as Kelowna wildfire rages × China, for instance, has initiated comprehensive radiation testing of imported Japanese seafood as a response. In addition to his visit, Kishida intends to meet with the leader of the National Federation of Fisheries Cooperative Associations, potentially scheduled for Monday. The decision to proceed with the water discharge aligns with the endorsement of global safety standards as articulated in the final report of the International Atomic Energy Agency, issued last month. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Japanese PM Kishida visits Fukushima plant, to discuss timing for release of treated radioactive water

The presidents of South Korea, Japan, and the United States came to an agreement at Camp David on Friday to strengthen their military and economic cooperation and to jointly denounce China's "dangerous and aggressive behavior" in the South China Sea. The Biden administration convened the summit with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in an effort to project unity in the face of China's expanding influence and North Korea's nuclear threats.

Trilateral Meet: US, Japan, South Korea announce deeper defence cooperation

Liverpool have signed a much-needed defensive midfielder and it’s a name nobody would have seen coming at the start of the week, with the club officially announcing the arrival of Japan and Stuttgart captain Wataru Endo ahead of their Saturday fixture against Bournemouth.

Liverpool signs Japan and Stuttgart captain Wataru Endo

<p>Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, on Friday (August 18), following a trilateral meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and President Joe Biden, said that he will visit the Fukushima nuclear plant on Sunday (August 20).</p>

<p>His visit to the nuclear plant will be ahead of the government's final verdict on when it will begin discharging treated radioactive water from the tsunami-wrecked power plant into the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>"The government is at the final stage of when it has to make a decision," Kishida said in the United States.</p>

<p>During the press briefing, he declined to comment on when the country will begin discharging the water.</p>

<p>Tokyo is planning to release wastewater of same volume&nbsp;as 500 Olympic-size swimming pools from the wrecked facility into the ocean.</p>

<h2><strong>South Korean activists protest against Japan's decision</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, hundreds of thousands of activists in South Korea took to the streets in central Seoul and staged a demonstration against Japan's decision to discharge water contaminated with radioactive substances.</p>

<p>"If it is discarded, radioactive substances contained in the contaminated water will eventually destroy the marine ecosystem," said Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch, an activist group that organised the protest.</p>

<p>"We are opposed... because we believe the sea is not just for the Japanese government, but for all of us and for mankind."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-british-columbia-declares-state-of-emergency-amid-worst-wildfires-626892">Canada: British Columbia declares state of emergency amid 'worst wildfires'</a></p>

<p>Demonstrators held up signboards saying "Keep It Inland" and "Protect the Pacific Ocean!" while singing songs and listening to rally organisers. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Japan's nuclear regulator permitted plant operator Tokyo Electric Power to begin releasing the water into the ocean, which as per &nbsp;Japan and the International Atomic Energy Agency is safe, but neighbouring countries have raised concerns that it may contaminate food.</p>

<p>"There is talk that the dumping of contaminated water is on the summit agenda. The governments of South Korea, the U.S., and Japan should view it an environmental disaster, rather than a political issue, and agree to block it... for future generations," Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, on Friday (August 18), following a trilateral meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and President Joe Biden, said that he will visit the Fukushima nuclear plant on Sunday (August 20).

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, on Friday (August 18), following a trilateral meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and President Joe Biden, said that he will visit the Fukushima nuclear plant on Sunday (August 20). His visit to the nuclear plant will be ahead of the government's final verdict on when it will begin discharging treated radioactive water from the tsunami-wrecked power plant into the Pacific Ocean. "The government is at the final stage of when it has to make a decision," Kishida said in the United States. During the press briefing, he declined to comment on when the country will begin discharging the water. Tokyo is planning to release wastewater of same volume as 500 Olympic-size swimming pools from the wrecked facility into the ocean. South Korean activists protest against Japan's decision Last week, hundreds of thousands of activists in South Korea took to the streets in central Seoul and staged a demonstration against Japan's decision to discharge water contaminated with radioactive substances. "If it is discarded, radioactive substances contained in the contaminated water will eventually destroy the marine ecosystem," said Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch, an activist group that organised the protest. "We are opposed... because we believe the sea is not just for the Japanese government, but for all of us and for mankind." Also read: Canada: British Columbia declares state of emergency amid 'worst wildfires' Demonstrators held up signboards saying "Keep It Inland" and "Protect the Pacific Ocean!" while singing songs and listening to rally organisers. Last month, Japan's nuclear regulator permitted plant operator Tokyo Electric Power to begin releasing the water into the ocean, which as per Japan and the International Atomic Energy Agency is safe, but neighbouring countries have raised concerns that it may contaminate food. "There is talk that the dumping of contaminated water is on the summit agenda. The governments of South Korea, the U.S., and Japan should view it an environmental disaster, rather than a political issue, and agree to block it... for future generations," Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japanese PM Fumio Kishida to visit Fukushima nuclear plant before government's decision on water release

Asia-pacific markets began the day with decline as investors digested a mix of factors including Japan's recent inflation figures and fresh challenges in China's real estate sector.

Asian markets open lower; US stocks extend losing run | World Business Watch

US President Joe Biden will host Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yun Suk Yeol in Camp David. Now reports say that the leaders will launch a series of joint initiatives on defence and technology.

US-Japan-South Korea historic first trilateral summit at Camp David

For the first time the leaders of Japan, South Korea and the United States are holding a trilateral summit. The leaders will meet at Camp David – the traditional presidential retreat. They’re expected to discuss increasing security ties and a plan by Japan to start releasing treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant – as soon as the end of August. Henry Ridgwell reports from Tokyo.

Leaders of Japan, South Korea & the US are holding a trilateral summit

<p>Japan on Friday (August 18) scrambled its fighter jets after two Russian&nbsp;IL-38 information-gathering aircraft were spotted flying near its maritime border in the Sea of Japan, Reuters reported.</p>

<p>Russia and China are holding a joint naval exercise in the East China Sea. “Russian and Chinese navy ships have been jointly patrolling the Pacific Ocean and holding naval exercises in the East China Sea,” the Russian Defence Ministry said.</p>

<p>"In the East China Sea, an exercise was conducted to replenish ships with water and fuel supplies from support vessels," the ministry said.</p>

<p>"A detachment of ships of the Russian Navy and the PLA Navy is currently operating in the waters of the East China Sea and has covered more than 6,400 nautical miles since the beginning of the patrol," it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Anti-submarine exercises conducted</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian defence ministry also said that the two nations conducted anti-submarine exercises. The two navies “repelled a simulated enemy air raid, conducted rescue training at sea and practised helicopter takeoffs and landings on the decks of warships,” read the statement.</p>

<p>Earlier, Japan spotted Russian and Chinese naval ships faring in the proximity of the southern Japanese islands of Okinawa and Miyako on Thursday (August 17).</p>

<h2><strong>Recent activities near Japanese islands</strong></h2>

<p>A total of six Chinese ships, including missile destroyers, and five Russian vessels, some of which were destroyers, traversed between Japan's Okinawa Island and Miyako Island before proceeding towards the East China Sea on Thursday, according to the Japanese defence ministry.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-to-agree-to-develop-hypersonic-missile-interceptor-report-624969"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;US, Japan all set to develop hypersonic missile interceptor: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>This occurred just a day before Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s scheduled summit with counterparts from South Korea and the United States to address escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.</p>

<p>However, the ships did not violate Japan's territorial waters.</p>

<h2><strong>Japan-Russia ties</strong></h2>

<p>Japan's relationship with Russia has soured since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine which commenced 18 months ago. Tokyo, in alignment with its Western allies, has imposed sanctions on Moscow and committed substantial humanitarian aid to Kyiv.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Millions in Japan told to take immediate cover</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, China has strengthened its political and economic ties with Russia, while asserting its stance as a neutral party in the conflict and an advocate for peace.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Japan on Friday (August 18) scrambled its fighter jets after two Russian IL-38 information-gathering aircraft were spotted flying near its maritime border in the Sea of Japan, Reuters reported.

Japan on Friday (August 18) scrambled its fighter jets after two Russian IL-38 information-gathering aircraft were spotted flying near its maritime border in the Sea of Japan, Reuters reported. Russia and China are holding a joint naval exercise in the East China Sea. “Russian and Chinese navy ships have been jointly patrolling the Pacific Ocean and holding naval exercises in the East China Sea,” the Russian Defence Ministry said. "In the East China Sea, an exercise was conducted to replenish ships with water and fuel supplies from support vessels," the ministry said. "A detachment of ships of the Russian Navy and the PLA Navy is currently operating in the waters of the East China Sea and has covered more than 6,400 nautical miles since the beginning of the patrol," it added. Anti-submarine exercises conducted The Russian defence ministry also said that the two nations conducted anti-submarine exercises. The two navies “repelled a simulated enemy air raid, conducted rescue training at sea and practised helicopter takeoffs and landings on the decks of warships,” read the statement. Earlier, Japan spotted Russian and Chinese naval ships faring in the proximity of the southern Japanese islands of Okinawa and Miyako on Thursday (August 17). Recent activities near Japanese islands A total of six Chinese ships, including missile destroyers, and five Russian vessels, some of which were destroyers, traversed between Japan's Okinawa Island and Miyako Island before proceeding towards the East China Sea on Thursday, according to the Japanese defence ministry. Also read: US, Japan all set to develop hypersonic missile interceptor: Report This occurred just a day before Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s scheduled summit with counterparts from South Korea and the United States to address escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. However, the ships did not violate Japan's territorial waters. Japan-Russia ties Japan's relationship with Russia has soured since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine which commenced 18 months ago. Tokyo, in alignment with its Western allies, has imposed sanctions on Moscow and committed substantial humanitarian aid to Kyiv. Watch: Gravitas: Millions in Japan told to take immediate cover × Meanwhile, China has strengthened its political and economic ties with Russia, while asserting its stance as a neutral party in the conflict and an advocate for peace. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan scrambles fighter jets after two Russian aircraft fly near Sea of Japan

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