A piece of good news awaits all the Harry Potter fans! A Harry Potter theme park has been unveiled in Tokyo. It was shown to the media ahead of its official opening on the 16th of June. Enticingly, it is called "Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo - The Making of Harry Potter''

A glimpse into the Harry Potter world ahead of theme park opening in Tokyo

<p>South Korean military, on Thursday (June 15) said that North Korea had fired&nbsp;two short-range ballistic&nbsp;missiles off its east coast, as per Reuters. This comes after North Korea condemned live fire drills South Korea is carrying out with the United States. Meanwhile, the Japanese defence ministry also confirmed the launch&nbsp;and said North Korea might have fired what could have been ballistic missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>North Korea fires another ballistic missile</strong></p>

<p>Notably, since the beginning of this year, North Korea has fired a record number of missiles during weapons tests, including test-firing its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles, and last month attempting to put a military spy satellite into orbit.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff&nbsp;released a statement that said it had detected the launch of "two short-range ballistic missiles from the Sunan area into the East Sea," between 7:25 pm&nbsp;and 7:37 pm&nbsp;(local time), referring to the Sea of Japan.</p>

<p>It added, "We have stepped up monitoring in case of further provocations and are maintaining readiness in close coordination with the United States."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an earlier statement,&nbsp;the South Korean military’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, said "North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile into the East Sea."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Japan confirms launch</strong><br />
<br />
A Tokyo defence ministry official told reporters&nbsp;that two missiles from North Korea fell inside&nbsp;the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).&nbsp;"Two ballistic missiles fell inside the EEZ," said the official from Tokyo, as per AFP.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
According to Japanese officials, one of the missiles&nbsp;landed in the Sea of Japan about 110 kilometres&nbsp;northwest of Hegura island which is a part of the&nbsp;Ishikawa prefecture while the other landed some 250 kilometres away.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The Japanese military had earlier said that&nbsp;Pyongyang had “launched a possible ballistic missile” and the country’s coastguard has since asked vessels to be vigilant in the Sea of Japan and not approach any fallen objects at sea.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>South Korea, US live fire drills</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, in South Korea, thousands of troops from both Seoul and Washington took part in what it described as the largest joint live-fire exercises with the US on Thursday amid a rise in tensions in the region and a show of power following threats from North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The live fire drills are also being overseen by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol which would&nbsp;mark the 70th anniversary of the alliance between the countries as well as the 75th anniversary of the founding of the South Korean military, said his office, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some 2,500 troops from both the US and South Korea have been said to be a part of the drills hosted in the northeast of Seoul with a range of weapons including South Korean F-35 fighters and K9 self-propelled howitzers and the US’ F-16 jets and Gray Eagle drones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The exercises were aimed at checking the ability to conduct combined and joint operations to realise 'peace through strength' through practical manoeuvring and live-fire training under the scenario of a North Korean provocation,” said Yoon’s office.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>North Korea's warning about US-South Korea&nbsp;drill</strong>s</p>

<p>The reported ballistic missiles launched by Pyongyang&nbsp;came hours after it condemned South Korea’s live-fire drills with the US, reported the state media KCNA, citing a spokesperson from North Korea’s Ministry of National Defence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the spokesperson said that North Korean forces will sternly respond to “any kind of protests or provocations by enemies,” as quoted by Reuters. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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South Korean military, on Thursday (June 15) said that North Korea had fired two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast, as per Reuters. This comes after North Korea condemned live fire drills South Korea is carrying out with the United States.

South Korean military, on Thursday (June 15) said that North Korea had fired two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast, as per Reuters. This comes after North Korea condemned live fire drills South Korea is carrying out with the United States. Meanwhile, the Japanese defence ministry also confirmed the launch and said North Korea might have fired what could have been ballistic missiles. North Korea fires another ballistic missile Notably, since the beginning of this year, North Korea has fired a record number of missiles during weapons tests, including test-firing its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles, and last month attempting to put a military spy satellite into orbit. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff released a statement that said it had detected the launch of "two short-range ballistic missiles from the Sunan area into the East Sea," between 7:25 pm and 7:37 pm (local time), referring to the Sea of Japan. It added, "We have stepped up monitoring in case of further provocations and are maintaining readiness in close coordination with the United States." In an earlier statement, the South Korean military’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, said "North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile into the East Sea." Japan confirms launch A Tokyo defence ministry official told reporters that two missiles from North Korea fell inside the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). "Two ballistic missiles fell inside the EEZ," said the official from Tokyo, as per AFP. According to Japanese officials, one of the missiles landed in the Sea of Japan about 110 kilometres northwest of Hegura island which is a part of the Ishikawa prefecture while the other landed some 250 kilometres away. The Japanese military had earlier said that Pyongyang had “launched a possible ballistic missile” and the country’s coastguard has since asked vessels to be vigilant in the Sea of Japan and not approach any fallen objects at sea. South Korea, US live fire drills Meanwhile, in South Korea, thousands of troops from both Seoul and Washington took part in what it described as the largest joint live-fire exercises with the US on Thursday amid a rise in tensions in the region and a show of power following threats from North Korea. The live fire drills are also being overseen by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol which would mark the 70th anniversary of the alliance between the countries as well as the 75th anniversary of the founding of the South Korean military, said his office, in a statement. Some 2,500 troops from both the US and South Korea have been said to be a part of the drills hosted in the northeast of Seoul with a range of weapons including South Korean F-35 fighters and K9 self-propelled howitzers and the US’ F-16 jets and Gray Eagle drones. “The exercises were aimed at checking the ability to conduct combined and joint operations to realise 'peace through strength' through practical manoeuvring and live-fire training under the scenario of a North Korean provocation,” said Yoon’s office. North Korea's warning about US-South Korea drills The reported ballistic missiles launched by Pyongyang came hours after it condemned South Korea’s live-fire drills with the US, reported the state media KCNA, citing a spokesperson from North Korea’s Ministry of National Defence. In a statement, the spokesperson said that North Korean forces will sternly respond to “any kind of protests or provocations by enemies,” as quoted by Reuters. (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.

North Korea launched two missiles, says Japan, South Korea amid Seoul's live-fire drills with Washington

Two soldiers have been killed and a third wounded when a fellow recruit opened fire at a training range in central Japan, the military has said.

Japan military shooting: Two soldiers killed after fellow recruit opens fire

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: 1 person arrested after a shooting incident in Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is likely to call a snap election, perhaps within days. Despite low public support for a prompt election, Kishida eyes consolidating power amid surging popularity and a booming economy.

Japanese PM Kishida likely to call for Snap elections

<p>Two people were killed when a military cadet opened fire at his peers at an army training range in Japan on Wednesday (June 14).<br />
<br />
The military said the 18-year-old personnel opened fire at his colleagues has been arrested.</p>

<p>"The death of another person has been confirmed of the three who were shot at," the Ground Self-Defense Force said in a brief statement after earlier confirming a first death and&nbsp;two&nbsp;injuries.</p>

<p>Local media reported that the victims included a man in his 50s and two in their 20s, and there were no reports of civilian casualties.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">The incident occurred around 9 am (local time)&nbsp;at an SDF shooting range in Hino City in the central Japanese prefecture of Gifu, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said. An SDF spokesperson said eight shots were fired.</p>

<h2><strong>Oracle's cloud kingdom ascends as sales surge</strong></h2>

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<p>Gifu is a major tourist destination and Gifu Castle draws many foreign visitors each year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-goes-on-unhinged-tirade-after-miami-court-proceedings-604154">'I will obliterate...': Trump goes on unhinged tirade after court proceedings</a></p>

<p>The Imperial Japanese Army opened the base in 1907, and it was confiscated by the US&nbsp;Amy after the end of World War II.&nbsp;SDF members began using the 6.7-hectare firing range in 1960.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/microsofts-69-billion-takeover-of-activision-blizzard-temporarily-halted-by-judge-604167">Microsoft’s $69 billion takeover of Activision-Blizzard temporarily halted</a></p>

<p>The firing range is now mainly used by members of the Ground SDF Camp Moriyama in nearby Nagoya.</p>

<p>Shootings are extremely rare in Japan, where gun ownership is tightly regulated and anyone seeking to own a gun must go through a rigorous vetting&nbsp;process.</p>

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Two people were killed when a military cadet opened fire at his peers at an army training range in Japan on Wednesday (June 14). The military said the 18-year-old personnel opened fire at his colleagues has been arrested.

Two people were killed when a military cadet opened fire at his peers at an army training range in Japan on Wednesday (June 14). The military said the 18-year-old personnel opened fire at his colleagues has been arrested. "The death of another person has been confirmed of the three who were shot at," the Ground Self-Defense Force said in a brief statement after earlier confirming a first death and two injuries. Local media reported that the victims included a man in his 50s and two in their 20s, and there were no reports of civilian casualties. The incident occurred around 9 am (local time) at an SDF shooting range in Hino City in the central Japanese prefecture of Gifu, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said. An SDF spokesperson said eight shots were fired. Oracle's cloud kingdom ascends as sales surge Gifu is a major tourist destination and Gifu Castle draws many foreign visitors each year. Also read | 'I will obliterate...': Trump goes on unhinged tirade after court proceedings The Imperial Japanese Army opened the base in 1907, and it was confiscated by the US Amy after the end of World War II. SDF members began using the 6.7-hectare firing range in 1960. Also read | Microsoft’s $69 billion takeover of Activision-Blizzard temporarily halted The firing range is now mainly used by members of the Ground SDF Camp Moriyama in nearby Nagoya. Shootings are extremely rare in Japan, where gun ownership is tightly regulated and anyone seeking to own a gun must go through a rigorous vetting process. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japanese soldier opens fire at colleagues at military base, two dead

A Japanese soldier has been arrested for allegedly shooting and killing two and injuring one of his instructors at an army base, officials said on Wednesday.

Japan: 2 dead after shooting at army training range

The global fertility rate is steadily falling since the 1970s. The global fertility rate is now close to the 2.1 threshold. How much worse is the situation going to get? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Global fertility rate plummeting | Japan & China struggle the most

<p>The Japanese government is considering putting off a tax increase that was supposed to fund the nation's defence spending. Speaking to Reuters, a "party source" on Monday revealed that the tax increase may be put off by a year to 2025.</p>

<p>In December, the coalition government agreed to raise some key taxes to fund the raising of the defence budget. However, stiff opposition fro.m lawmakers has reportedly delayed the decision regarding the implementation of the widely unpopular move.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Japan's defence budget increase</strong></h2>

<p>The tax increase plan follows through on Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's commitment to raising taxes to double the nation's defence, spending to two per cent of Japan's gross domestic product (GDP) by the year 2027.</p>

<p>This two per cent target, as per the Japan Times, will put the nation at par with other NATO nations.</p>

<p>Kishida's administration approved the move back in December of last year. As per them, a tax hike it will be put into motion "at an appropriate time" in 2024, or thereafter.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/strong-earthquake-of-62-magnitude-jolts-japans-hokkaido-603117" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/strong-earthquake-of-62-magnitude-jolts-japans-hokkaido-603117&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiz462Dm7__AhWvV2wGHRWbDpY4ChAWegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2RE8KbTMEhiqthfuQ2ActY" dir="ltr" href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/strong-earthquake-of-62-magnitude-jolts-japans-hokkaido-603117&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiz462Dm7__AhWvV2wGHRWbDpY4ChAWegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2RE8KbTMEhiqthfuQ2ActY" target="_blank">Strong earthquake of 6.2 magnitude jolts&nbsp;Japan's&nbsp;Hokkaido</a></strong></p>

<p>However, speaking to Reuters, the source said that the Kishida government's upcoming long-term policy framework which is expected to be released this week, will include information about the delay. It is expected to include language that allows for a delay in the implementation of tax hikes until 2025 or later. Previously, the Kyodo news agency had published a similar report.</p>

<h2><strong>Problems Kishida administration faces in the implementation of the tax hike</strong></h2>

<p>The plan which ultimately aims to increase the nation's defence spending has, as per Reuters, become bogged down in wrangling among lawmakers who objected to near-term tax increases. They oppose that the tax hike could hurt Japan's fragile economy.</p>

<p>As per Reuters, Japan is already struggling to secure funding sources for a planned defence spending of 43 trillion yen ($309 billion) over the next five years. This can potentially further complicate the nation's aim of balancing the budget - excluding new bond sales and debt servicing - by the fiscal year 2025.</p>

<h2><strong>People's opinion of the tax hike</strong></h2>

<p>In December of last year, following news of the tax hike, support for Kishida's Cabinet was 33.1 per cent, the lowest since its launch in 2021. The disapproval rate stood at 51.5 per cent.</p>

<p>A poll conducted by Japan's Kyodo News found that 64.9 per cent of the Japanese disapprove of the tax hike plan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-citizens-oppose-government-plans-to-increase-taxes-to-fund-320-billion-military-expansion-544216">Japan citizens oppose government plans to increase taxes to fund $320 billion military expansion</a></strong></p>

<p>Now, a delay in the implementation is expected to highlight the challenges faced by Kishida. The leader, according to Reuters, is juggling the conflicting priorities of restoring Japan's tattered public finances and addressing geopolitical risks from an 'assertive' China and an 'unpredictable' North Korea.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Japanese government is considering putting off a tax increase that was supposed to fund the nation's defence spending. Speaking to Reuters, a "party source" on Monday revealed that the tax increase may be put off by a year to 2025.

The Japanese government is considering putting off a tax increase that was supposed to fund the nation's defence spending. Speaking to Reuters, a "party source" on Monday revealed that the tax increase may be put off by a year to 2025. In December, the coalition government agreed to raise some key taxes to fund the raising of the defence budget. However, stiff opposition fro.m lawmakers has reportedly delayed the decision regarding the implementation of the widely unpopular move. Japan's defence budget increase The tax increase plan follows through on Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's commitment to raising taxes to double the nation's defence, spending to two per cent of Japan's gross domestic product (GDP) by the year 2027. This two per cent target, as per the Japan Times, will put the nation at par with other NATO nations. Kishida's administration approved the move back in December of last year. As per them, a tax hike it will be put into motion "at an appropriate time" in 2024, or thereafter. Also read | Strong earthquake of 6.2 magnitude jolts Japan's Hokkaido However, speaking to Reuters, the source said that the Kishida government's upcoming long-term policy framework which is expected to be released this week, will include information about the delay. It is expected to include language that allows for a delay in the implementation of tax hikes until 2025 or later. Previously, the Kyodo news agency had published a similar report. Problems Kishida administration faces in the implementation of the tax hike The plan which ultimately aims to increase the nation's defence spending has, as per Reuters, become bogged down in wrangling among lawmakers who objected to near-term tax increases. They oppose that the tax hike could hurt Japan's fragile economy. As per Reuters, Japan is already struggling to secure funding sources for a planned defence spending of 43 trillion yen ($309 billion) over the next five years. This can potentially further complicate the nation's aim of balancing the budget - excluding new bond sales and debt servicing - by the fiscal year 2025. People's opinion of the tax hike In December of last year, following news of the tax hike, support for Kishida's Cabinet was 33.1 per cent, the lowest since its launch in 2021. The disapproval rate stood at 51.5 per cent. A poll conducted by Japan's Kyodo News found that 64.9 per cent of the Japanese disapprove of the tax hike plan. Also read | Japan citizens oppose government plans to increase taxes to fund $320 billion military expansion Now, a delay in the implementation is expected to highlight the challenges faced by Kishida. The leader, according to Reuters, is juggling the conflicting priorities of restoring Japan's tattered public finances and addressing geopolitical risks from an 'assertive' China and an 'unpredictable' North Korea. (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.

Japan to contemplate pushing back defence spending tax hike to 2025 or beyond

<p>The world has long-ditched the Cold War&nbsp;era,&nbsp;two-camp approach of foreign policy and is steadily adapting to the realities of an increasingly multi-polar world. The result of this shift is more and more interest-specific groupings. These cooperation and partnerships are often based on narrow and specific interests, unlike across-the-board alliances or treaty-bound partnerships. The reason for traction to this approach is that it allows grounds for engagement and possible cooperation despite existing tensions and conflicts. Recall all those burgeoning acronyms that now populate the diplomatic landscape – AUKUS, BRICS, I2U2, Quad, SCO among plenty of others. This piece attempts to make a case for one more, Japan – India – France, call it JIF (or anything that sounds more pleasant – FIJ? IJF?).</p>

<p>The reason for making a case for a more formalised partnership between two of the major and influential G7 members with a growing economy from Global South, is the inherent bilateral strengths and potential for cooperation between Paris, Tokyo, and New Delhi. In recent decades, there has been a traditional consensus among Tokyo and Paris on most major international issues, the importance of their bilateral diplomatic relationship is mostly under-appreciated and is often surrounded by negative headlines such as troubles around the Renault-Nissan partnership. The underappreciation is also visible in increasingly stronger partnerships between Paris and New Delhi, as well as in the ties between New Delhi and Tokyo. Alignment of mutual interests can be the sustaining force for this trilateral grouping.</p>

<p>For New Delhi, the importance of both partnerships is crystal clear. Indo-Japan partnerships have thrived for years and received significant impetus from personal chemistry between leaders in Abe-Modi era. The Japanese capital and technology are treated as crucial in realising India’s developmental aspirations. For example, the choice of Japan’s Shinkansen high-speed rail technology for India’s first bullet train project aptly captures the significance of the growing role of Japan – both in terms of providing technology as well as capital – in India’s strategic decision-making.<br />
<br />
Japan still remains a major source for FDI inflows in India, with annual FDI inflow more than USD 1.3 Bn for almost a decade now, peaking in 2017 at around USD 4.2 Bn. The partnership has only gained momentum with similar vision and concerns in Indo-Pacific and working together in Quad grouping alongside the United States and Australia. For Paris, partnership with India has steadily gained momentum and today it serves as its major diplomatic partner outside of the francosphere. New Delhi is also seen as a crucial partner for Paris’s strategic and defence interests, and an important ally for France’ much desired ‘strategic autonomy’, outside of the European Union, G7, and NATO.<br />
<br />
For India, Paris is currently her strongest and most reliable support base in the United Nations Security Council, replacing New Delhi’s traditional reliance on Moscow. While New Delhi’s strategic importance has grown both in London and Washington, the strong presence of anti-India interests in the domestic politics of the US and UK often hinders their reliability from New Delhi’s perspective. For India, Paris is also a crucial partner for defence procurement and technology transfer, given the broader and long-term benefits of diversifying away from Moscow as well as maintaining a strategic distance from Washington as key defence suppliers.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-from-homeland-to-refugee-and-back-to-homeland-only-to-become-refugees-once-again-602661">From homeland to refugee, and back to homeland, only to become refugees once again</a></p>

<p>For Tokyo, stronger and more effective partnerships with major European powers as well as large emerging economy allows for a more independent approach to global affairs. For almost stagnant large economies&nbsp;such as Japan, India fares&nbsp;well as a large and growing market for trade and investment activities. Further, while Quad will continue to remain Tokyo’s Indo-pacific pivot, Paris is undoubtedly a major stakeholder in the region and will add value for both Tokyo and New Delhi, as both countries embark on an ambitious security strategy overhaul. The relative absence of Paris in the current Indo-Pacific discourse is indeed awkward, given France’s vast presence in the region through its overseas territories. It is worthwhile to note that more than 90% of France’s exclusive economic zone lies in the Indo-Pacific and not in the Atlantic.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/pm-modis-us-visit-a-new-chapter-to-be-heralded-for-tech-geopolitics-603309">PM Modi’s US visit: A new chapter to be heralded for tech geopolitics</a></p>

<p>A trilateral partnership with the potential for cooperation across various areas including emerging technologies, trade, security, and defence cooperation would be mutually beneficial for all three major and influential powers in asserting their individual strategic autonomy. For France and Japan, this arrangement will allow for more independent expression of their defence and security concerns outside of their respective European and American security and diplomatic umbrella. And for India, this will allow her to be a more influential voice of the Global South and reinforce a commitment to a multipolar world and no-camp or own-camp diplomacy.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>

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The world has long-ditched the Cold War era, two-camp approach of foreign policy and is steadily adapting to the realities of an increasingly multi-polar world. The result of this shift is more and more interest-specific groupings.

The world has long-ditched the Cold War era, two-camp approach of foreign policy and is steadily adapting to the realities of an increasingly multi-polar world. The result of this shift is more and more interest-specific groupings. These cooperation and partnerships are often based on narrow and specific interests, unlike across-the-board alliances or treaty-bound partnerships. The reason for traction to this approach is that it allows grounds for engagement and possible cooperation despite existing tensions and conflicts. Recall all those burgeoning acronyms that now populate the diplomatic landscape – AUKUS, BRICS, I2U2, Quad, SCO among plenty of others. This piece attempts to make a case for one more, Japan – India – France, call it JIF (or anything that sounds more pleasant – FIJ? IJF?). The reason for making a case for a more formalised partnership between two of the major and influential G7 members with a growing economy from Global South, is the inherent bilateral strengths and potential for cooperation between Paris, Tokyo, and New Delhi. In recent decades, there has been a traditional consensus among Tokyo and Paris on most major international issues, the importance of their bilateral diplomatic relationship is mostly under-appreciated and is often surrounded by negative headlines such as troubles around the Renault-Nissan partnership. The underappreciation is also visible in increasingly stronger partnerships between Paris and New Delhi, as well as in the ties between New Delhi and Tokyo. Alignment of mutual interests can be the sustaining force for this trilateral grouping. For New Delhi, the importance of both partnerships is crystal clear. Indo-Japan partnerships have thrived for years and received significant impetus from personal chemistry between leaders in Abe-Modi era. The Japanese capital and technology are treated as crucial in realising India’s developmental aspirations. For example, the choice of Japan’s Shinkansen high-speed rail technology for India’s first bullet train project aptly captures the significance of the growing role of Japan – both in terms of providing technology as well as capital – in India’s strategic decision-making. Japan still remains a major source for FDI inflows in India, with annual FDI inflow more than USD 1.3 Bn for almost a decade now, peaking in 2017 at around USD 4.2 Bn. The partnership has only gained momentum with similar vision and concerns in Indo-Pacific and working together in Quad grouping alongside the United States and Australia. For Paris, partnership with India has steadily gained momentum and today it serves as its major diplomatic partner outside of the francosphere. New Delhi is also seen as a crucial partner for Paris’s strategic and defence interests, and an important ally for France’ much desired ‘strategic autonomy’, outside of the European Union, G7, and NATO. For India, Paris is currently her strongest and most reliable support base in the United Nations Security Council, replacing New Delhi’s traditional reliance on Moscow. While New Delhi’s strategic importance has grown both in London and Washington, the strong presence of anti-India interests in the domestic politics of the US and UK often hinders their reliability from New Delhi’s perspective. For India, Paris is also a crucial partner for defence procurement and technology transfer, given the broader and long-term benefits of diversifying away from Moscow as well as maintaining a strategic distance from Washington as key defence suppliers. Also read | From homeland to refugee, and back to homeland, only to become refugees once again For Tokyo, stronger and more effective partnerships with major European powers as well as large emerging economy allows for a more independent approach to global affairs. For almost stagnant large economies such as Japan, India fares well as a large and growing market for trade and investment activities. Further, while Quad will continue to remain Tokyo’s Indo-pacific pivot, Paris is undoubtedly a major stakeholder in the region and will add value for both Tokyo and New Delhi, as both countries embark on an ambitious security strategy overhaul. The relative absence of Paris in the current Indo-Pacific discourse is indeed awkward, given France’s vast presence in the region through its overseas territories. It is worthwhile to note that more than 90% of France’s exclusive economic zone lies in the Indo-Pacific and not in the Atlantic. Also read | PM Modi’s US visit: A new chapter to be heralded for tech geopolitics A trilateral partnership with the potential for cooperation across various areas including emerging technologies, trade, security, and defence cooperation would be mutually beneficial for all three major and influential powers in asserting their individual strategic autonomy. For France and Japan, this arrangement will allow for more independent expression of their defence and security concerns outside of their respective European and American security and diplomatic umbrella. And for India, this will allow her to be a more influential voice of the Global South and reinforce a commitment to a multipolar world and no-camp or own-camp diplomacy. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Making a strong and valid case for Japan-India-France grouping

Japan has been rushing to dump contaminated water into the ocean. Experts and residents are urging japan to stop pushing forward with the ocean discharge plan, that intends to dump hazardous radioactive substances like tritium.

Japan's plan to discharge treated water Fukushima threatens Pacific Ocean | WION Climate Tracker

<p>The court cancelled the pre-trial hearing of the man, who faces an accusation of murdering Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe, on Monday after it received a suspicious object, local media reported.<br />
<br />
The report published by public broadcaster NHK and other outlets was not immediately confirmed by Nara District Court. The court stated that the site was evacuated after what looked like an "unidentified bag" was delivered to the court.<br />
<br />
Tetsuya Yamagami was due to appear in the court on Monday afternoon for the pre-trial hearing over the broad-daylight assassination of Abe which left the world shocked in July last year.<br />
<br />
The 42-year-old man has been charged with murder and violation of arms control laws and is likely to face the death penalty if convicted.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strong-earthquake-of-62-magnitude-jolts-japans-hokkaido-603117">Strong earthquake of 6.2 magnitude jolts Japan’s Hokkaido</a></p>

<h2><strong>Abe targetted due to ties with Unification Church</strong></h2>

<p>The man reportedly targetted Abe because of his ties with the Unification Church, the global sect whose members are called "Moonies" sometimes.<br />
<br />
It is believed that Yamagami resented the church because of large donations that were made by his mother which ultimately led to bankruptcy in his family.<br />
<br />
Japanese politician and longest-serving prime minister, Abe, was apparently shot with a homemade gun while he was addressing a campaign event on July 8.<br />
<br />
The assassination's circumstances have ignited scrutiny of what was admitted by the authorities as security "shortcomings", and led to the resignation of Japan's police chief.<br />
<br />
Yamagami, who had gone through a psychiatric assessment in January, was with the navy for three years and his childhood was marred by the suicide of his father and the alleged neglect and devotion to church activities of his mother.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Reports: Prime Minister Kishida considering early elections | Japan</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Yamagami gets people's support</strong></h2>

<p>After the details of his troubled childhood and upbringing came out, it stoked anger in people against the Unification Church and Yamagami garnered huge sympathy, as people displayed their support for him by making donations and running a petition which called for leniency.<br />
<br />
Self-styled messiah Sun Myung Moon had found the global religious movement, the Unification Church, in Korea in the 1950s.<br />
<br />
In the letter published by media in Japan, Yamagami has accused Abe of extending support to the church and also shared his resentment towards the group.<br />
<br />
His mother's membership was confirmed by the church however it declined to specify the amount of donations she made, which as per reports, stated may have totalled around 100 million yen ($700,000).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The court cancelled the pre-trial hearing of the man, who faces an accusation of murdering Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe, on Monday after it received a suspicious object, local media reported.

The court cancelled the pre-trial hearing of the man, who faces an accusation of murdering Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe, on Monday after it received a suspicious object, local media reported. The report published by public broadcaster NHK and other outlets was not immediately confirmed by Nara District Court. The court stated that the site was evacuated after what looked like an "unidentified bag" was delivered to the court. Tetsuya Yamagami was due to appear in the court on Monday afternoon for the pre-trial hearing over the broad-daylight assassination of Abe which left the world shocked in July last year. The 42-year-old man has been charged with murder and violation of arms control laws and is likely to face the death penalty if convicted. ALSO READ | Strong earthquake of 6.2 magnitude jolts Japan’s Hokkaido Abe targetted due to ties with Unification Church The man reportedly targetted Abe because of his ties with the Unification Church, the global sect whose members are called "Moonies" sometimes. It is believed that Yamagami resented the church because of large donations that were made by his mother which ultimately led to bankruptcy in his family. Japanese politician and longest-serving prime minister, Abe, was apparently shot with a homemade gun while he was addressing a campaign event on July 8. The assassination's circumstances have ignited scrutiny of what was admitted by the authorities as security "shortcomings", and led to the resignation of Japan's police chief. Yamagami, who had gone through a psychiatric assessment in January, was with the navy for three years and his childhood was marred by the suicide of his father and the alleged neglect and devotion to church activities of his mother. WATCH | Reports: Prime Minister Kishida considering early elections | Japan Yamagami gets people's support After the details of his troubled childhood and upbringing came out, it stoked anger in people against the Unification Church and Yamagami garnered huge sympathy, as people displayed their support for him by making donations and running a petition which called for leniency. Self-styled messiah Sun Myung Moon had found the global religious movement, the Unification Church, in Korea in the 1950s. In the letter published by media in Japan, Yamagami has accused Abe of extending support to the church and also shared his resentment towards the group. His mother's membership was confirmed by the church however it declined to specify the amount of donations she made, which as per reports, stated may have totalled around 100 million yen ($700,000). (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

Hearing for Abe murder suspect cancelled over suspicious object. Here's what happened

<p>A&nbsp;powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.2 struck northern Japan's Hokkaido prefecture on Sunday evening, as per Japan Meteorological Agency.&nbsp;The earthquake's epicentre was off the coast of the town of Urakawa. According to the agency, the earthquake had a depth of 140 km (87 miles). No tsunami warning was issued in response to the seismic activity. Footage shared by a media portal depicted the intensity of the seismic event that struck Japan's Hokkaido prefecture.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">JUST IN 🚨 Footage shows shaking during Japan's 6.2 magnitude earthquake<br />
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<a href="https://t.co/Q1oN8plVnk">pic.twitter.com/Q1oN8plVnk</a></p>
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<p>The earthquake, measuring 6.2 magnitude on the Richter scale, caused substantial shaking as per the footage revealing the powerful tremors.</p>

<p>A similar powerful earthquake measuring 6.2 magnitude jolted eastern Tokyo City, Japan on May 26. The seismic event was confirmed by the meteorological agency, with the epicenter located off eastern Chiba Prefecture at a depth of 50 kilometers. The earthquake occurred at 7:03 pm local time (10:03 GMT). Thankfully, no tsunami warning was issued.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Vending machines for natural disaster preparedness</strong></h2>

<p>In an effort to enhance their preparedness for natural disasters, Japan has taken a unique approach by installing vending machines that would provide free food and drinks during major earthquakes or typhoons. This new initiative aims to address the potential impact of future earthquakes and typhoons, particularly along the country's central and southwest Pacific coasts.</p>

<h2><strong>Pilot project implemented in Ako city</strong></h2>

<p>The pilot project has initially been implemented in the western coastal city of Ako, which is situated in an area identified by seismologists as being vulnerable to a large earthquake in the coming decades.</p>

<p>Two vending machines have been installed near buildings designated as evacuation shelters. These machines are stocked with approximately 300 bottles and cans of soft drinks, along with 150 emergency food items, including nutritional supplements.</p>

<h2><strong>Supporting evacuation shelters</strong></h2>

<p>Placing the vending machines near evacuation shelters is a strategic decision to ensure that those seeking refuge during emergencies have access to sustenance and beverages.</p>

<p>This initiative aims to provide a convenient source of food and drinks for affected individuals, relieving some of the immediate challenges faced during times of crisis.</p>

<h2><strong>Communication via local community radio</strong></h2>

<p>When triggered, a radio connected to the machines will broadcast evacuation instructions and other crucial updates from a local community radio station. This mechanism will help ensure that evacuees have access to timely and essential information to navigate the emergency situation effectively.</p>

<p>By implementing innovative measures like these vending machines, Japan is taking proactive steps to improve its disaster response capabilities and support the well-being of its citizens during times of natural calamities.</p>

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A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.2 struck northern Japan's Hokkaido prefecture on Sunday evening, as per Japan Meteorological Agency. The earthquake's epicentre was off the coast of the town of Urakawa.

A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.2 struck northern Japan's Hokkaido prefecture on Sunday evening, as per Japan Meteorological Agency. The earthquake's epicentre was off the coast of the town of Urakawa. According to the agency, the earthquake had a depth of 140 km (87 miles). No tsunami warning was issued in response to the seismic activity. Footage shared by a media portal depicted the intensity of the seismic event that struck Japan's Hokkaido prefecture. JUST IN 🚨 Footage shows shaking during Japan's 6.2 magnitude earthquake pic.twitter.com/Q1oN8plVnk — Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) June 11, 2023 × The earthquake, measuring 6.2 magnitude on the Richter scale, caused substantial shaking as per the footage revealing the powerful tremors. A similar powerful earthquake measuring 6.2 magnitude jolted eastern Tokyo City, Japan on May 26. The seismic event was confirmed by the meteorological agency, with the epicenter located off eastern Chiba Prefecture at a depth of 50 kilometers. The earthquake occurred at 7:03 pm local time (10:03 GMT). Thankfully, no tsunami warning was issued. Vending machines for natural disaster preparedness In an effort to enhance their preparedness for natural disasters, Japan has taken a unique approach by installing vending machines that would provide free food and drinks during major earthquakes or typhoons. This new initiative aims to address the potential impact of future earthquakes and typhoons, particularly along the country's central and southwest Pacific coasts. Pilot project implemented in Ako city The pilot project has initially been implemented in the western coastal city of Ako, which is situated in an area identified by seismologists as being vulnerable to a large earthquake in the coming decades. Two vending machines have been installed near buildings designated as evacuation shelters. These machines are stocked with approximately 300 bottles and cans of soft drinks, along with 150 emergency food items, including nutritional supplements. Supporting evacuation shelters Placing the vending machines near evacuation shelters is a strategic decision to ensure that those seeking refuge during emergencies have access to sustenance and beverages. This initiative aims to provide a convenient source of food and drinks for affected individuals, relieving some of the immediate challenges faced during times of crisis. Communication via local community radio When triggered, a radio connected to the machines will broadcast evacuation instructions and other crucial updates from a local community radio station. This mechanism will help ensure that evacuees have access to timely and essential information to navigate the emergency situation effectively. By implementing innovative measures like these vending machines, Japan is taking proactive steps to improve its disaster response capabilities and support the well-being of its citizens during times of natural calamities. 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. ×

Strong earthquake of 6.2 magnitude jolts Japan’s Hokkaido

Although general elections in Japan are scheduled to take place in 2025, there have been rumours that due to the widening coalition cracks, the prime minister Fumio Kishida, may dissolve the lower house of parliament soon. This is because the conditions are favourable for him to seize back power.

Reports: Prime Minister Kishida considering early elections | Japan

<p>Two airplanes appear to have bumped into each other near a taxiway&nbsp;at Haneda Airport in Japan's capital of Tokyo causing concerns, media reports said.&nbsp;According to reports citing Japan's transport ministry, the collision incident involved a Thai Airways plane scheduled for departure to Bangkok and an Eva Airways jet bound for Taipei.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although no injuries were reported, the collision resulted in the closure of one of the airport's runways, causing delays and inconveniences for several flights.</p>

<h2><strong>Visual evidence, cleanup efforts</strong></h2>

<p>Footage broadcasted by media outlets showcased the aftermath of the likely collision, with both planes situated on the ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/san-francisco-nine-people-shot-at-in-yet-another-targeted-shooting-incident-602856">San Francisco: Nine people shot at in yet another 'targeted' shooting incident</a></p>

<p>The Thai Airways aircraft displayed visible damage to its winglet, the part located at the tip of the right-wing, while fragments were scattered near the runway. Aviation personnel swiftly initiated operations to clear the debris, ensuring the safety of the area.</p>

<h2><strong>Thai Airways' account of the incident</strong></h2>

<p>Thai Airways provided insights into the incident, explaining that their Bangkok-bound flight was preparing for takeoff on a taxiway when its winglet collided with the Eva Airways aircraft positioned on the same taxiway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/archbishop-of-canterbury-urges-anglican-church-of-uganda-to-reject-anti-lgbt-law-602861">Archbishop of Canterbury urges Anglican church of Uganda to reject anti-LGBT law</a></p>

<p>The collision rendered the Thai airplane's winglet inoperable, necessitating the cancellation of the flight. The Airbus A330, carrying 250 passengers and 14 crew members, faced unexpected disruption due to the incident. Eva Airways has yet to provide an official statement regarding the collision.</p>

<h2><strong>Investigation, pending clarity</strong></h2>

<p>Following the incident, questions arose about the cause of the collision and the events leading up to it. The Tokyo Airport Office promptly dispatched staff members to examine the situation and ascertain the details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft</p>

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<p>Thai Airways confirmed that Japan's civil aviation authority had initiated an investigation into the incident. The hope is that this ongoing investigation will shed light on the circumstances surrounding the collision, including the multitude of factors and scenarios that may have contributed to it.</p>

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Two airplanes appear to have bumped into each other near a taxiway at Haneda Airport in Japan's capital of Tokyo causing concerns, media reports said. According to reports citing Japan's transport ministry, the collision incident involved a Thai Airways plane scheduled for departure to Bangkok and an Eva Airways jet bound for Taipei.

Two airplanes appear to have bumped into each other near a taxiway at Haneda Airport in Japan's capital of Tokyo causing concerns, media reports said. According to reports citing Japan's transport ministry, the collision incident involved a Thai Airways plane scheduled for departure to Bangkok and an Eva Airways jet bound for Taipei. Although no injuries were reported, the collision resulted in the closure of one of the airport's runways, causing delays and inconveniences for several flights. Visual evidence, cleanup efforts Footage broadcasted by media outlets showcased the aftermath of the likely collision, with both planes situated on the ground. Also Read | San Francisco: Nine people shot at in yet another 'targeted' shooting incident The Thai Airways aircraft displayed visible damage to its winglet, the part located at the tip of the right-wing, while fragments were scattered near the runway. Aviation personnel swiftly initiated operations to clear the debris, ensuring the safety of the area. Thai Airways' account of the incident Thai Airways provided insights into the incident, explaining that their Bangkok-bound flight was preparing for takeoff on a taxiway when its winglet collided with the Eva Airways aircraft positioned on the same taxiway. Also Read | Archbishop of Canterbury urges Anglican church of Uganda to reject anti-LGBT law The collision rendered the Thai airplane's winglet inoperable, necessitating the cancellation of the flight. The Airbus A330, carrying 250 passengers and 14 crew members, faced unexpected disruption due to the incident. Eva Airways has yet to provide an official statement regarding the collision. Investigation, pending clarity Following the incident, questions arose about the cause of the collision and the events leading up to it. The Tokyo Airport Office promptly dispatched staff members to examine the situation and ascertain the details. Watch | Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft × Thai Airways confirmed that Japan's civil aviation authority had initiated an investigation into the incident. The hope is that this ongoing investigation will shed light on the circumstances surrounding the collision, including the multitude of factors and scenarios that may have contributed to it. 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. ×

Two planes collide at Haneda airport in Japan's capital

Japanese stocks are defying expectations and leaving their global counterparts in the dust in a market rally that's taking investors by storm, the Nikkei has soared to its highest level in over three decades, outpacing other major markets by a significant margin.

Japan's stock market renaissance | World Business Watch

<p>A diner who recorded himself licking a soy sauce bottle and wiping saliva on a fish slice at one of Japan's leading sushi&nbsp;restaurants is being sued by the&nbsp;sushi chain in Japan for ¥67mn ($480,859)&nbsp;in damages. This incident was one of a string of "sushi terrorism" episodes that disgraced Japan's food industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Japan's&nbsp;Kyodo news agency reported that&nbsp;Sushiro, the largest operator of revolving sushi restaurants in the country, filed the lawsuit with a court in Osaka, claiming it had incurred financial damages because the incident raised public concerns about food sanitation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The unidentified teenager is accused of licking the rim of a teacup and a bottle of soy sauce before setting them back on a shelf. He then is said to have wiped saliva on a platter of sushi that was being served to other people.</p>

<p>Restaurant chains were forced to take severe measures to calm alarmed customers when a second person's video of the incident went viral.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-fukuoka-district-court-rules-ban-on-same-sex-marriage-in-a-state-of-unconstitutionality-602002">Japan's Fukuoka district court says ban on same-sex marriage ‘in a state of unconstitutionality</a></p>

<h2><strong>Charges levied against the teenager</strong></h2>

<p>A 21-year-old who reportedly drank from a shared soy sauce bottle at a kaitenzushi restaurant owned by Kura Sushi was one of three individuals detained by police in March on suspicion of forcible&nbsp;obstruction of business.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The firm said at the time: “We sincerely hope that society widely acknowledges antisocial acts are crimes, and that these kinds of actions are not committed in future.”</p>

<p>The arrests — the first involving customers accused of "unhygienic and harassing behaviour" — came as news broke of further food-related acts of sabotage in the multibillion-dollar budget dining sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A 30-year-old man was charged with comparable offences in April after being seen on camera using his own&nbsp;chopsticks&nbsp;to remove pickled&nbsp;ginger out of a container meant for everyone at a beef bowl eatery.</p>

<p>Several chains were obliged to act as a result of the pranks. To make it harder for other diners to tamper with food, one restaurant stopped using its conveyor belts, and another started serving sushi to guests who order using touch-screen devices via an "express lane."</p>

<p>Sushiro said in its lawsuit against the teenager that following the event, sales had drastically decreased.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Japan's stock market renaissance</strong></p>

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<p>After being compelled to spend an additional $645,084&nbsp;on additional sanitary measures, including constructing plastic barriers at more than 600 restaurants, the news agency said that the company may pursue additional damages.</p>

<p>The teenager has expressed regret for his behaviour and acknowledged licking shared items.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He didn't intend for the video&nbsp;to be circulated online, according to his lawyers, who also argued that it was hard to attribute the decline in Sushiro customers to him given the severe competition in the $740 billion budget sushi market.</p>

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A diner who recorded himself licking a soy sauce bottle and wiping saliva on a fish slice at one of Japan's leading sushi restaurants is being sued by the sushi chain in Japan for ¥67mn ($480,859) in damages.

A diner who recorded himself licking a soy sauce bottle and wiping saliva on a fish slice at one of Japan's leading sushi restaurants is being sued by the sushi chain in Japan for ¥67mn ($480,859) in damages. This incident was one of a string of "sushi terrorism" episodes that disgraced Japan's food industry. Japan's Kyodo news agency reported that Sushiro, the largest operator of revolving sushi restaurants in the country, filed the lawsuit with a court in Osaka, claiming it had incurred financial damages because the incident raised public concerns about food sanitation. The unidentified teenager is accused of licking the rim of a teacup and a bottle of soy sauce before setting them back on a shelf. He then is said to have wiped saliva on a platter of sushi that was being served to other people. Restaurant chains were forced to take severe measures to calm alarmed customers when a second person's video of the incident went viral. Also read | Japan's Fukuoka district court says ban on same-sex marriage ‘in a state of unconstitutionality Charges levied against the teenager A 21-year-old who reportedly drank from a shared soy sauce bottle at a kaitenzushi restaurant owned by Kura Sushi was one of three individuals detained by police in March on suspicion of forcible obstruction of business. The firm said at the time: “We sincerely hope that society widely acknowledges antisocial acts are crimes, and that these kinds of actions are not committed in future.” The arrests — the first involving customers accused of "unhygienic and harassing behaviour" — came as news broke of further food-related acts of sabotage in the multibillion-dollar budget dining sector. A 30-year-old man was charged with comparable offences in April after being seen on camera using his own chopsticks to remove pickled ginger out of a container meant for everyone at a beef bowl eatery. Several chains were obliged to act as a result of the pranks. To make it harder for other diners to tamper with food, one restaurant stopped using its conveyor belts, and another started serving sushi to guests who order using touch-screen devices via an "express lane." Sushiro said in its lawsuit against the teenager that following the event, sales had drastically decreased. Also watch | Japan's stock market renaissance After being compelled to spend an additional $645,084 on additional sanitary measures, including constructing plastic barriers at more than 600 restaurants, the news agency said that the company may pursue additional damages. The teenager has expressed regret for his behaviour and acknowledged licking shared items. He didn't intend for the video to be circulated online, according to his lawyers, who also argued that it was hard to attribute the decline in Sushiro customers to him given the severe competition in the $740 billion budget sushi market. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japanese restaurant chain files damages suit against 'sushi terrorist' for licking soy bottle

<p>In scenes uncommon for Japan’s normally sedate parliament, the left-wing lawmakers engaged in a brawl with other parliamentarians in an attempt to block a controversial immigration bill, the New York Post reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Liberal Democratic Party&nbsp;as well as two opposition parties, the Democratic Party for the People and Nippon Ishin no Kai voted in favour of the bill. However, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP) and the Japanese Communist Party (JCP) opposed the legislation saying it did nothing to protect the rights of asylum-seekers as well as&nbsp;improving&nbsp;the current treatment of detainees stuck at immigration facilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though the protest started off ordinarily,&nbsp;Taro Yamamoto, an actor and leader of the Reiwa party, soon jumped onto the crowd, seemingly trying to reach the discussion table.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Steamrolling this bill is unacceptable.&nbsp;That’s why we demand that it be withdrawn and that thorough deliberations be conducted,” said Sohei Nihia, a JCP member during the debate.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Battle Royale" actor and left-wing populist Reiwa party leader Taro Yamamoto tried to climb over lawmakers to stop the passing of an anti-refugee law through Japan's Upper House (via <a href="https://twitter.com/mrjeffu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mrjeffu</a>) <a href="https://t.co/HuPTMXvDef">pic.twitter.com/HuPTMXvDef</a></p>
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<p>By the end of the initial question-and-answer session, the opposition leaders once again started making noise as they gathered around&nbsp;Hisatake Sugi, the chairman of the committee, to impede the passing of the law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the chaos, the bill, which overhauls immigration rules and rolls back the long-term detention of asylum-seekers passed a key Upper House committee.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-enacts-law-to-tackle-loneliness-and-social-isolation-599527"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Japan enacts law to tackle loneliness and social isolation</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Second attempt to get the bill passed</strong></h2>

<p>This was the second attempt in the Japanese parliament to get the bill cleared. The previous attempt in February 2021 had to be abandoned&nbsp;amid a public outcry over the death of 33-year-old Sri Lankan asylum seeker named&nbsp;Ratnayake Liyanage Wishma Sandamali.</p>

<p>Sandamali, reportedly died in an immigration detention centre as subsequent investigations revealed that officers intentionally denied her request for provisional release. Moreover, the officers believed that she was faking her illness to get out.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-millions-in-japan-told-to-take-immediate-cover-582258"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Millions in Japan told to take immediate cover</strong></a></p>

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<p>Amnesty International has opposed the Japanese government's proposed changes to the immigration bill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Migrants have painted a grim picture of what it’s like to claim refugee status in Japan. Far from being helped in their hour of need, they speak of being subjected to arbitrary, endless detention in prison-like immigration facilities,” said Hideaki Nakagawa, Director of Amnesty International Japan.</p>

<p>Notably, this was not the first instance when a scuffle broke out in the Japanese parliament. In 2015, members of the opposition and the ruling coalition pushed and shoved each other during a heated debate over a security bill that batted for the military fighting abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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In scenes uncommon for Japan’s normally sedate parliament, the left-wing lawmakers engaged in a brawl with other parliamentarians in an attempt to block a controversial immigration bill, the New York Post reported.

In scenes uncommon for Japan’s normally sedate parliament, the left-wing lawmakers engaged in a brawl with other parliamentarians in an attempt to block a controversial immigration bill, the New York Post reported. The Liberal Democratic Party as well as two opposition parties, the Democratic Party for the People and Nippon Ishin no Kai voted in favour of the bill. However, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP) and the Japanese Communist Party (JCP) opposed the legislation saying it did nothing to protect the rights of asylum-seekers as well as improving the current treatment of detainees stuck at immigration facilities. Though the protest started off ordinarily, Taro Yamamoto, an actor and leader of the Reiwa party, soon jumped onto the crowd, seemingly trying to reach the discussion table. “Steamrolling this bill is unacceptable. That’s why we demand that it be withdrawn and that thorough deliberations be conducted,” said Sohei Nihia, a JCP member during the debate. "Battle Royale" actor and left-wing populist Reiwa party leader Taro Yamamoto tried to climb over lawmakers to stop the passing of an anti-refugee law through Japan's Upper House (via @mrjeffu) pic.twitter.com/HuPTMXvDef — Populism Updates (@PopulismUpdates) June 8, 2023 × By the end of the initial question-and-answer session, the opposition leaders once again started making noise as they gathered around Hisatake Sugi, the chairman of the committee, to impede the passing of the law. Despite the chaos, the bill, which overhauls immigration rules and rolls back the long-term detention of asylum-seekers passed a key Upper House committee. Also read | Japan enacts law to tackle loneliness and social isolation Second attempt to get the bill passed This was the second attempt in the Japanese parliament to get the bill cleared. The previous attempt in February 2021 had to be abandoned amid a public outcry over the death of 33-year-old Sri Lankan asylum seeker named Ratnayake Liyanage Wishma Sandamali. Sandamali, reportedly died in an immigration detention centre as subsequent investigations revealed that officers intentionally denied her request for provisional release. Moreover, the officers believed that she was faking her illness to get out. WATCH | Gravitas: Millions in Japan told to take immediate cover × Amnesty International has opposed the Japanese government's proposed changes to the immigration bill. “Migrants have painted a grim picture of what it’s like to claim refugee status in Japan. Far from being helped in their hour of need, they speak of being subjected to arbitrary, endless detention in prison-like immigration facilities,” said Hideaki Nakagawa, Director of Amnesty International Japan. Notably, this was not the first instance when a scuffle broke out in the Japanese parliament. In 2015, members of the opposition and the ruling coalition pushed and shoved each other during a heated debate over a security bill that batted for the military fighting abroad. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Watch | Lawmakers spar and scuffle in Japanese parliament over controversial refugee bill

<p>The defence force&nbsp;of Japan&nbsp;has&nbsp;been rethinking removing the ban on tattoos as it is making efforts to increase recruitment from a rapidly shrinking population.</p>

<p>For a long time, tattoos have been a taboo in the nation and are often linked to mafia-like criminal gangs which are popularly known as yakuza. These criminal gangs carry elaborate skin art on their body.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, officials have stated that Japan's youth have been getting these tattoos done for sartorial reasons and hence, they must not be identified as yakuza.</p>

<p>The officials have further argued that the ban is hindering enlistment. The country's military Japanese Self-Defence Forces (JSDF) is 10 per cent short of its troop capacity and couldn't meet its recruitment target last April, stated officials,&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rejecting applicants just because they have tattoos poses a problem in terms of enhancing the human resources base," Masahisa Sato, governing Liberal Democratic Party's MP, said recently.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-gives-thumbs-down-to-natos-plans-of-opening-liaison-office-in-japan-601605">France gives thumbs down to NATO’s plans of opening liaison office in Japan</a></p>

<p>Head of the defence ministry's personnel bureau Kazuhito Machida said that they must reconsider the ban on tattoos, taking into account the country's declining birth rate.</p>

<p>In 2022, the country of 125 million recorded less than 800,000 births, which was less than two million in the 1970s. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that it is a "now or never" situation for the country to address its ageing and shrinking population.</p>

<h2><strong>Japan under pressure to fill&nbsp;vacancies in JSDF</strong></h2>

<p>This situation has further increased pressure on the country to fill vacancies in the JSDF as it is doubling its spending on military, in response to the nuclear arsenal of North Korea and the growing might of China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Japan has also been facing enduring calls to revise its post-war pacifist constitution so that it is capable of responding to the increasing tensions in the Asia-Pacific, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is still unknown when the government will take a final decision, however, scholars said that there was an era when tattoos were common in Japanese culture.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Typhoon Mawar: Japanese streets flooded after heavy rains</strong></p>

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<p>A cultural anthropologist at Tsuru University Yoshimi Yamamoto, who has been studying the culture of tatoo in Japan and Taiwan, said that encounters of Japanese with Europeans in the 1800s changed that.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Civilized Europe" considered the full-body tattoos on the people of Japan as "backward", because of which people covered up the ink, except during religious festivals, said Yamamoto, in an online lecture in 2019.</p>

<p>"Tattooed people are feared almost automatically," Yamamoto said.</p>

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The defence force of Japan has been rethinking removing the ban on tattoos as it is making efforts to increase recruitment from a rapidly shrinking population. For a long time, tattoos have been a taboo in the nation and are often linked to mafia-like criminal gangs which are popularly known as yakuza.

The defence force of Japan has been rethinking removing the ban on tattoos as it is making efforts to increase recruitment from a rapidly shrinking population. For a long time, tattoos have been a taboo in the nation and are often linked to mafia-like criminal gangs which are popularly known as yakuza. These criminal gangs carry elaborate skin art on their body. However, officials have stated that Japan's youth have been getting these tattoos done for sartorial reasons and hence, they must not be identified as yakuza. The officials have further argued that the ban is hindering enlistment. The country's military Japanese Self-Defence Forces (JSDF) is 10 per cent short of its troop capacity and couldn't meet its recruitment target last April, stated officials, "Rejecting applicants just because they have tattoos poses a problem in terms of enhancing the human resources base," Masahisa Sato, governing Liberal Democratic Party's MP, said recently. ALSO READ | France gives thumbs down to NATO’s plans of opening liaison office in Japan Head of the defence ministry's personnel bureau Kazuhito Machida said that they must reconsider the ban on tattoos, taking into account the country's declining birth rate. In 2022, the country of 125 million recorded less than 800,000 births, which was less than two million in the 1970s. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that it is a "now or never" situation for the country to address its ageing and shrinking population. Japan under pressure to fill vacancies in JSDF This situation has further increased pressure on the country to fill vacancies in the JSDF as it is doubling its spending on military, in response to the nuclear arsenal of North Korea and the growing might of China. Japan has also been facing enduring calls to revise its post-war pacifist constitution so that it is capable of responding to the increasing tensions in the Asia-Pacific, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. It is still unknown when the government will take a final decision, however, scholars said that there was an era when tattoos were common in Japanese culture. WATCH | Typhoon Mawar: Japanese streets flooded after heavy rains A cultural anthropologist at Tsuru University Yoshimi Yamamoto, who has been studying the culture of tatoo in Japan and Taiwan, said that encounters of Japanese with Europeans in the 1800s changed that. "Civilized Europe" considered the full-body tattoos on the people of Japan as "backward", because of which people covered up the ink, except during religious festivals, said Yamamoto, in an online lecture in 2019. "Tattooed people are feared almost automatically," Yamamoto said. 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 rethinks tattoo ban to boost recruitment in defence forces

After passing the landmark bill to redefine rape and increase the age of consent in the Lower House, Japan's Upper House discusses the legislation as it moves ahead to make it a law.

'No means no': Japan redefining sexual assault, making room for consent

<p>France has rejected a proposal by NATO to open a liaison office in Japan. As per media reports, French officials are of the view that NATO’s presence in the East Asian region will distract it from its prime region of focus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NATO’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg previously hinted that an office in Japan will help the military alliance counter the rising security threats from China. However, Paris is not keen on pursuing any plan which could put Europe-China ties in jeopardy.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why is France opposing NATO’s planned office in Japan?</strong></h2>

<p>French officials believe that putting NATO’s focus away from the Atlantic region goes against the provisions of the military alliance. “NATO (stands for) North Atlantic, and both article V and article VI (in its statutes) clearly limit the scope to North Atlantic,” a French official was quoted as saying by several media reports.</p>

<p>“There is no NATO liaison office in any country in the region. If NATO needs situational awareness in the region it can use the embassies designated as point of contact,” the official added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Who will be next NATO chief as Jen Stoltenberg to retire soon</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier, it was French President Emmanuel Macron who referred to the move as “a big mistake.” France’s opposition can stymie NATO’s plans for Japan as a unanimous approval of the North Atlantic Council is required.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Reactions from Japan and China</strong></h2>

<p>Japan declined to comment on Macron’s latest remarks, saying “deliberations” at various levels were still underway. “Various considerations are underway within NATO. At this point, I will refrain from commenting with prejudgment,” Japan’s top government spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/india-a-nato-state-whose-gain-whose-loss-600030"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India, a NATO state? Whose gain, whose loss?</strong></a></p>

<p>On the other hand, Beijing has blasted NATO for formulating plans that could “destabilise” the region. Wang Wenbin, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, was quoted by Financial Times as saying that opening a NATO office in Japan will amount to “interfering in regional affairs and inciting bloc confrontation.” He said, “Asia lies beyond the geographical scope of the North Atlantic.”</p>

<h2><strong>Japan says ‘No’ to NATO</strong></h2>

<p>Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida last month said that his nation had no plans to join NATO, although he was aware of the plans of opening a liaison office in Tokyo. NATO, over the last few years, has expressed its concerns about China’s rising aggression in the Indo-Pacific region. &nbsp;However, France has hinted that it will no longer operate under the security umbrella of the US, and will seek strategic autonomy. Macron even suggested earlier this year that Europe must not become an American “vassal” while the French leader was visiting China.</p>

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France has rejected a proposal by NATO to open a liaison office in Japan. As per media reports, French officials are of the view that NATO’s presence in the East Asian region will distract it from its prime region of focus.

France has rejected a proposal by NATO to open a liaison office in Japan. As per media reports, French officials are of the view that NATO’s presence in the East Asian region will distract it from its prime region of focus. NATO’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg previously hinted that an office in Japan will help the military alliance counter the rising security threats from China. However, Paris is not keen on pursuing any plan which could put Europe-China ties in jeopardy. Why is France opposing NATO’s planned office in Japan? French officials believe that putting NATO’s focus away from the Atlantic region goes against the provisions of the military alliance. “NATO (stands for) North Atlantic, and both article V and article VI (in its statutes) clearly limit the scope to North Atlantic,” a French official was quoted as saying by several media reports. “There is no NATO liaison office in any country in the region. If NATO needs situational awareness in the region it can use the embassies designated as point of contact,” the official added. Watch | Who will be next NATO chief as Jen Stoltenberg to retire soon × Earlier, it was French President Emmanuel Macron who referred to the move as “a big mistake.” France’s opposition can stymie NATO’s plans for Japan as a unanimous approval of the North Atlantic Council is required. Reactions from Japan and China Japan declined to comment on Macron’s latest remarks, saying “deliberations” at various levels were still underway. “Various considerations are underway within NATO. At this point, I will refrain from commenting with prejudgment,” Japan’s top government spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno said. Also read | India, a NATO state? Whose gain, whose loss? On the other hand, Beijing has blasted NATO for formulating plans that could “destabilise” the region. Wang Wenbin, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, was quoted by Financial Times as saying that opening a NATO office in Japan will amount to “interfering in regional affairs and inciting bloc confrontation.” He said, “Asia lies beyond the geographical scope of the North Atlantic.” Japan says ‘No’ to NATO Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida last month said that his nation had no plans to join NATO, although he was aware of the plans of opening a liaison office in Tokyo. NATO, over the last few years, has expressed its concerns about China’s rising aggression in the Indo-Pacific region. However, France has hinted that it will no longer operate under the security umbrella of the US, and will seek strategic autonomy. Macron even suggested earlier this year that Europe must not become an American “vassal” while the French leader was visiting China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

France gives thumbs down to NATO’s plans of opening liaison office in Japan

<p>South Korea and Japan said that they scrambled their air force jets after Russian and Chinese military planes entered the former’s air defence zones as they flew over the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p dir="ltr">This is the sixth time that Russia and China have undertaken patrols near South Korean and Japanese territories since 2019.</p>

<p dir="ltr">China and Russia conducted joint patrol as part of the two militaries' annual cooperation plan, China's defence ministry said.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Four Chinese and four Russian military planes entered South Korea's air defence identification zone (KADIZ) without notice, Seoul's military said.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Joint Chiefs of Staff said that between 11.52 am and 1.49 pm (local time), the Chinese and Russian aircraft entered the KADIZ and exited it.</p>

<h2><strong>Indonesia: 36 countries including US, China participate in multilateral naval exercise</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr">The South Korean military, however, clarified that the Russian and Chinese planes did not violate their airspace before exiting the area.</p>

<p dir="ltr">An air defence zone is an area where countries demand that foreign aircraft identify themselves to prevent accidents.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Unlike a country's airspace — the air above its territory and territorial waters —there are no international rules governing air defence zones.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Growing tensions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">It comes after the defence chiefs of South Korea, the United States and Japan highlighted their commitment to strengthening trilateral security cooperation during the Shangri-La Dialogue, an annual security conference in Singapore, over the weekend.</p>

<p dir="ltr">In November, China conducted an aerial patrol with Russia, forcing South Korea to deploy its fighter jets. Chinese H-6K bombers and Russian TU-95 bombers and SU-35 fighter jets had entered its Air Defence Identification Zone (KADIZ).</p>

<p dir="ltr">During the May 2022 joint exercise, Chinese and Russian warplanes neared Japan's airspace as Tokyo hosted a Quad summit with the leaders of the United States, India and Australia. The move alarmed Japan despite China saying that its flights were not directed at third parties.</p>

<p dir="ltr">There have been concerns among China’s neighbouring countries and their Western allies over China’s increasing military assertiveness in the South China Sea.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The growing tensions prompted the coast guard of the United States, Japan and the Philippines to hold held their first trilateral naval exercise in the South China Sea last week.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Moreover, a Chinese warship came within 150 yards (137 metres) of a US destroyer while the US and Canadian navies were conducting a joint exercise in the volatile Taiwan Strait over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Shortly before that, a video showed a Chinese fighter jet passing in front of a US&nbsp;plane's nose with the cockpit of the RC-135 shaking due to the turbulence caused by the flight.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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South Korea and Japan said that they scrambled their air force jets after Russian and Chinese military planes entered the former’s air defence zones as they flew over the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea on Tuesday.

South Korea and Japan said that they scrambled their air force jets after Russian and Chinese military planes entered the former’s air defence zones as they flew over the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea on Tuesday. This is the sixth time that Russia and China have undertaken patrols near South Korean and Japanese territories since 2019. China and Russia conducted joint patrol as part of the two militaries' annual cooperation plan, China's defence ministry said. Four Chinese and four Russian military planes entered South Korea's air defence identification zone (KADIZ) without notice, Seoul's military said. The Joint Chiefs of Staff said that between 11.52 am and 1.49 pm (local time), the Chinese and Russian aircraft entered the KADIZ and exited it. Indonesia: 36 countries including US, China participate in multilateral naval exercise The South Korean military, however, clarified that the Russian and Chinese planes did not violate their airspace before exiting the area. An air defence zone is an area where countries demand that foreign aircraft identify themselves to prevent accidents. Unlike a country's airspace — the air above its territory and territorial waters —there are no international rules governing air defence zones. Growing tensions It comes after the defence chiefs of South Korea, the United States and Japan highlighted their commitment to strengthening trilateral security cooperation during the Shangri-La Dialogue, an annual security conference in Singapore, over the weekend. In November, China conducted an aerial patrol with Russia, forcing South Korea to deploy its fighter jets. Chinese H-6K bombers and Russian TU-95 bombers and SU-35 fighter jets had entered its Air Defence Identification Zone (KADIZ). During the May 2022 joint exercise, Chinese and Russian warplanes neared Japan's airspace as Tokyo hosted a Quad summit with the leaders of the United States, India and Australia. The move alarmed Japan despite China saying that its flights were not directed at third parties. There have been concerns among China’s neighbouring countries and their Western allies over China’s increasing military assertiveness in the South China Sea. The growing tensions prompted the coast guard of the United States, Japan and the Philippines to hold held their first trilateral naval exercise in the South China Sea last week. Moreover, a Chinese warship came within 150 yards (137 metres) of a US destroyer while the US and Canadian navies were conducting a joint exercise in the volatile Taiwan Strait over the weekend. Shortly before that, a video showed a Chinese fighter jet passing in front of a US plane's nose with the cockpit of the RC-135 shaking due to the turbulence caused by the flight. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korea, Japan scramble fighter jets after Russia, China hold joint patrol over Pacific 

Heavy rains that began on Friday and lasted until early Saturday in Japan have caused one person to pass away, at least three others are reported missing, and dozens of others have been hurt. Due to the excessive rains, transport services have been affected throughout the nation. On Friday, bullet trains were stopped in central Japan.

Typhoon Mawar: Japanese streets flooded after heavy rains

In Pics | Tropical storm Mawar batters Japan

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong denounced the United Nations Security Council meeting on the country’s recent satellite launch upon “robbery demands” from the United States, reported the state media KCNA, on Sunday (June 4). She also dubbed the meeting “most unfair” while rejecting sanctions and vowed to take “self-defensive” action.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Very offended’ over the UNSC meeting: Kim’s sister</strong></h2>

<p>The North Korean leader’s sister, as per the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said that the UN meeting last week was yet another reminder that the council is acting as a “political appendage” to the “gangster-like” Washington. She also went on to say that the UNSC by accepting US’ “robbery demands” is ignoring North Korea’s right to space development.</p>

<p>“I am very offended that the UNSC routinely criticises our exercise of sovereign rights as the United States wants, and strongly condemn and reject this as the most unfair, prejudiced act of interfering in internal affairs and infringing our sovereignty,” said Kim Yo Jong, as quoted KCNA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also called North Korea’s satellite launch a “legitimate, self-defensive countermeasure” amid threats from the US and its allies. Pyongyang had also accused Washington of raising tensions in the region with their recent annual military drills.</p>

<p>The North Korean leader’s sister also vowed to continue launching spy satellites which the country has called necessary to counter Washington’s growing US military presence in the region.</p>

<p>“The DPRK will continue to take proactive measures to exercise all the lawful rights of a sovereign state, including the one to military reconnaissance satellite launch,” said Kim Yo Jong, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Additionally, she said Pyongyang will never acknowledge sanctions resolutions by the UN, “even if they slap them hundred, thousand times.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened at the meeting?</strong></h2>

<p>The UNSC meeting over North Korea’s failed launch of its spy satellite was called by the US last week. The launch has since been slammed by the US, South Korea and Japan who said it violated UN resolutions barring the nuclear-armed country from any tests using ballistic missile technology.</p>

<p>This led the UN’s under-secretary-general for political and peacebuilding affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo on Friday to take the UNSC to task over the “lack of unity and action” on North Korea’s tests. Meanwhile, analysts have warned that if Pyongyang succeeds in its satellite deployment, the surveillance capabilities would allow North Korea to target the US and its ally South Korea more accurately.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On May 31, North Korea launched its Chollima-1 rocket which minutes later lost thrust and crashed into the sea with its satellite payload. Subsequently,&nbsp;in a rare announcement on the same day, Pyongyang said that it would conduct another test as soon as possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong denounced the United Nations Security Council meeting on the country’s recent satellite launch upon “robbery demands” from the United States, reported the state media KCNA, on Sunday (June 4).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong denounced the United Nations Security Council meeting on the country’s recent satellite launch upon “robbery demands” from the United States, reported the state media KCNA, on Sunday (June 4). She also dubbed the meeting “most unfair” while rejecting sanctions and vowed to take “self-defensive” action. ‘Very offended’ over the UNSC meeting: Kim’s sister The North Korean leader’s sister, as per the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said that the UN meeting last week was yet another reminder that the council is acting as a “political appendage” to the “gangster-like” Washington. She also went on to say that the UNSC by accepting US’ “robbery demands” is ignoring North Korea’s right to space development. “I am very offended that the UNSC routinely criticises our exercise of sovereign rights as the United States wants, and strongly condemn and reject this as the most unfair, prejudiced act of interfering in internal affairs and infringing our sovereignty,” said Kim Yo Jong, as quoted KCNA. She also called North Korea’s satellite launch a “legitimate, self-defensive countermeasure” amid threats from the US and its allies. Pyongyang had also accused Washington of raising tensions in the region with their recent annual military drills. The North Korean leader’s sister also vowed to continue launching spy satellites which the country has called necessary to counter Washington’s growing US military presence in the region. “The DPRK will continue to take proactive measures to exercise all the lawful rights of a sovereign state, including the one to military reconnaissance satellite launch,” said Kim Yo Jong, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Additionally, she said Pyongyang will never acknowledge sanctions resolutions by the UN, “even if they slap them hundred, thousand times.” What happened at the meeting? The UNSC meeting over North Korea’s failed launch of its spy satellite was called by the US last week. The launch has since been slammed by the US, South Korea and Japan who said it violated UN resolutions barring the nuclear-armed country from any tests using ballistic missile technology. This led the UN’s under-secretary-general for political and peacebuilding affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo on Friday to take the UNSC to task over the “lack of unity and action” on North Korea’s tests. Meanwhile, analysts have warned that if Pyongyang succeeds in its satellite deployment, the surveillance capabilities would allow North Korea to target the US and its ally South Korea more accurately. On May 31, North Korea launched its Chollima-1 rocket which minutes later lost thrust and crashed into the sea with its satellite payload. Subsequently, in a rare announcement on the same day, Pyongyang said that it would conduct another test as soon as possible. (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.

‘Very offended’: North Korean leader’s sister slams UN meeting on spy satellite launch

The coronavirus pandemic had a huge toll on populations worldwide. However, one often ignored the cost of the pandemic stemming from the subsequent lockdowns. With most of the world forced to quarantine themselves, social isolation and loneliness have cropped up as a wound with a lasting scar. To help its citizens navigate their way through social isolation and loneliness, Japan has now introduced legislation.

Japan enacts law to tackle loneliness and social isolation

To help its citizens navigate their way through social isolation and loneliness, Japan has introduced legislation. The legislation will go into effect on April 1 next year.

Japan enacts bill to tackle social isolation

<p>Japan has expanded its natural disaster preparations to include vending machines that would provide free food and drink in the event of a major earthquake or typhoon.</p>

<p>Two machines have been installed&nbsp;in the western coastal city of Ako, which is located in an area that seismologists predict is vulnerable to a large earthquake that is projected to impact the country's central and south-west Pacific coasts in the decades to come.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The machines, which carry around 300 bottles and cans of soft drinks and 150 emergency food items, including nutritional supplements, have been placed near buildings designated as evacuation shelters.</p>

<p>As per the Japanese newspaper&nbsp;Mainichi Shimbun, they are intended to "unlock" and make their contents available free of charge in the case of a severe rain warning or an evacuation order following a quake of an upper five or higher on the Japanese seismic intensity scale of seven.</p>

<p>Their contents must be paid for the remainder of the period, according to the newspaper.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeking-explosives-in-japan-for-ukraine-artillery-shells-599545">US seeking explosives in Japan for Ukraine artillery shells: Report</a></p>

<h2><strong>First of their kind&nbsp;in Japan</strong></h2>

<p>Earth Corp, which has a facility in the city, claims the devices are the first of their kind in Japan, one of the world's most seismically active countries, where increasingly violent typhoons have caused significant floods and landslides in recent years.</p>

<p>The rest of the time, its contents must be paid for, according to the newspaper.</p>

<p>“We would like to install [the machines] throughout the country,” a company representative told the Mainichi, as reported by the Guardian.</p>

<p>A city official said: “We expect that the stockpile will lead to the safety and security of our residents.”</p>

<p>Earlier this year, a vending machine equipped with a radio that automatically releases emergency notifications, was installed in a Tokyo park.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea says it launched satellite | Japan put its ballistic missiles on alert&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Media reports said, earthquakes registering five&nbsp;or higher on the Japanese intensity scale would trigger the radio, which will relay evacuation and other crucial information from a local community radio station.</p>

<p>Experts have increased the likelihood of a "megaquake" occurring at the Nankai trough, off Japan's Pacific coast, from 50 per cent&nbsp;to 60 per cent&nbsp;over the next 20 years, and to about 90 per cent&nbsp;within the next 40 years.</p>

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Japan has expanded its natural disaster preparations to include vending machines that would provide free food and drink in the event of a major earthquake or typhoon.

Japan has expanded its natural disaster preparations to include vending machines that would provide free food and drink in the event of a major earthquake or typhoon. Two machines have been installed in the western coastal city of Ako, which is located in an area that seismologists predict is vulnerable to a large earthquake that is projected to impact the country's central and south-west Pacific coasts in the decades to come. The machines, which carry around 300 bottles and cans of soft drinks and 150 emergency food items, including nutritional supplements, have been placed near buildings designated as evacuation shelters. As per the Japanese newspaper Mainichi Shimbun, they are intended to "unlock" and make their contents available free of charge in the case of a severe rain warning or an evacuation order following a quake of an upper five or higher on the Japanese seismic intensity scale of seven. Their contents must be paid for the remainder of the period, according to the newspaper. Also read | US seeking explosives in Japan for Ukraine artillery shells: Report First of their kind in Japan Earth Corp, which has a facility in the city, claims the devices are the first of their kind in Japan, one of the world's most seismically active countries, where increasingly violent typhoons have caused significant floods and landslides in recent years. The rest of the time, its contents must be paid for, according to the newspaper. “We would like to install [the machines] throughout the country,” a company representative told the Mainichi, as reported by the Guardian. A city official said: “We expect that the stockpile will lead to the safety and security of our residents.” Earlier this year, a vending machine equipped with a radio that automatically releases emergency notifications, was installed in a Tokyo park. ALSO WATCH | North Korea says it launched satellite | Japan put its ballistic missiles on alert Media reports said, earthquakes registering five or higher on the Japanese intensity scale would trigger the radio, which will relay evacuation and other crucial information from a local community radio station. Experts have increased the likelihood of a "megaquake" occurring at the Nankai trough, off Japan's Pacific coast, from 50 per cent to 60 per cent over the next 20 years, and to about 90 per cent within the next 40 years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japan aces disaster preparedness, vending machines to offer free food if earthquake hits

In Pics | Extreme weather conditions hit several nations

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">The United States is seeking to secure supplies of TNT in Japan for 155mm artillery shells, as Washington rushes&nbsp;weapons and ammunition&nbsp;to Ukraine for a counteroffensive against Russian forces, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">For war-renouncing Japan, any procurement would test its willingness to court controversy to help Kyiv because export rules ban Japanese companies from selling lethal items overseas, such as the howitzer shells that Ukraine fires daily at Russian units occupying its southeastern regions.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">Nonetheless, the allies appear to have found a workaround to enable the TNT sale amid global&nbsp;shortages&nbsp;of munitions.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">"There is a way for the United States to buy explosives from Japan," one of the people with knowledge of discussions on the matter in Japan told Reuters on the condition of anonymity, citing the issue's sensitivity.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4">Export restrictions for dual-use products or equipment sold commercially are less stringent than for items with a purely military purpose, which is why the US&nbsp;can buy Panasonic Toughbook laptops for its military.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-5">Tokyo, which hosted US&nbsp;Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin this week, has told the US&nbsp;government it will allow the sale of industrial TNT because the explosive is not a military-use-only product, the other source said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-6">The US&nbsp;wants to plug a Japanese company into a TNT supply chain to deliver explosives to US&nbsp;army-owned munitions plants that would pack them into 155mm shell cases, the person added.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-7">Japan's Ministry of Trade, Industry and Economy declined to say whether any Japanese company had approached it about exporting TNT. It added in an email that items not subject to military restrictions would be assessed under regular export rules that consider the buyer's intent, including whether their use would impede international security.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-8">The Japanese defence ministry's Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency declined to comment.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-8">The US&nbsp;State Department did not directly address questions from Reuters about whether the US&nbsp;planned to buy TNT in Japan but said Washington was working with allies and partners "to provide Ukraine with the support it needs" to defend itself. Japan, it added, "has demonstrated leadership in supporting Ukraine's defense".</p>

<h2 data-testid="Heading">Eager to help</h2>

<p data-testid="paragraph-10">Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida wants to help Ukraine because his administration fears a Russian victory would embolden China to attack Taiwan and embroil his country in a regional war. Last year, he warned that Ukraine may be "East Asia tomorrow", and his administration announced&nbsp;Japan's biggest military build-up since World War Two.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-11">That retreat from the state pacifism that has dominated Japan's foreign policy for decades has not so far extended to lethal military aid, limiting Tokyo's offerings to Kyiv to kit such as flak jackets, helmets and food rations.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-12">Following Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Japan during the Hiroshima G7 leaders summit last month, Kishida agreed to donate jeeps and trucks.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-13">There appears to be growing acceptance in Japan about providing military aid to Ukraine, but the degree of lethality is contentious, said Tsuneo Watanabe, a senior fellow at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-14">"The fact that Japan has decided to give trucks to Ukraine shows that things are changing. However, there doesn't yet appear to be any political consensus around the issue of sending lethal aid," he said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-15">Japan is one of dozens of friends and allies that Washington is asking to help arm Ukraine as it wrestles with stretched military supply chains.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-16">South Korea, which also uses 155mm shells, is among those the US&nbsp;has&nbsp;approached. A South Korean defence official told Reuters that Seoul's stance against providing lethal aid to Kyiv had not changed.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-17">Asked in Tokyo this week about the possibility of a shift in Japanese policy on lethal aid, Austin said at a press briefing that any change would be a matter for Japan but "any bit of support" for Ukraine was "always welcome".</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-18">The sources who spoke to Reuters declined to identify the Japanese company that would supply explosives to the US&nbsp;government and did not say how much TNT Washington wanted to buy.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-19">Reuters contacted 22 explosives makers listed on the Japan Explosives Industry Association's website. The only one that said it made industrial TNT was Chugoku Kayaku, a Hiroshima-based firm that supplies Japan's military.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-20">"We have not received any direct inquiry from the US&nbsp;government or US&nbsp;military," the company said in an email.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-21">Asked if it was discussing any TNT sales through an intermediary, the firm, which lists an industrial TNT product on its website, said it did not disclose the identity of customers or potential buyers.</p>

<h2 data-testid="Heading">Japan's next move</h2>

<p data-testid="paragraph-22">Supplying commercial TNT to the US&nbsp;may only be a stop-gap measure because many lawmakers of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) want to ease or eliminate the export restrictions.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-23">In December, when Kishida announced Japan's five-year military build-up, he pledged to revise the export rules, opening up the possibility that Japan could supply lethal weapons not only to Ukraine but to other nations that Tokyo and Washington see as potential allies against Russia and China.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-24">Akihisa Nagashima, a former deputy defence minister and a ranking LDP member of the parliamentary committee on national security, said the military build-up would take Japan four-fifths of the way to becoming a "normal country" unencumbered by the legacy of its World War Two defeat.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-25">"Tackling the export restrictions is the remaining 20 per cent," he said.</p>


The United States is seeking to secure supplies of TNT in Japan for 155mm artillery shells, as Washington rushes weapons and ammunition to Ukraine for a counteroffensive against Russian forces, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The United States is seeking to secure supplies of TNT in Japan for 155mm artillery shells, as Washington rushes weapons and ammunition to Ukraine for a counteroffensive against Russian forces, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters. For war-renouncing Japan, any procurement would test its willingness to court controversy to help Kyiv because export rules ban Japanese companies from selling lethal items overseas, such as the howitzer shells that Ukraine fires daily at Russian units occupying its southeastern regions. Nonetheless, the allies appear to have found a workaround to enable the TNT sale amid global shortages of munitions. "There is a way for the United States to buy explosives from Japan," one of the people with knowledge of discussions on the matter in Japan told Reuters on the condition of anonymity, citing the issue's sensitivity. Export restrictions for dual-use products or equipment sold commercially are less stringent than for items with a purely military purpose, which is why the US can buy Panasonic Toughbook laptops for its military. Tokyo, which hosted US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin this week, has told the US government it will allow the sale of industrial TNT because the explosive is not a military-use-only product, the other source said. The US wants to plug a Japanese company into a TNT supply chain to deliver explosives to US army-owned munitions plants that would pack them into 155mm shell cases, the person added. Japan's Ministry of Trade, Industry and Economy declined to say whether any Japanese company had approached it about exporting TNT. It added in an email that items not subject to military restrictions would be assessed under regular export rules that consider the buyer's intent, including whether their use would impede international security. The Japanese defence ministry's Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency declined to comment. The US State Department did not directly address questions from Reuters about whether the US planned to buy TNT in Japan but said Washington was working with allies and partners "to provide Ukraine with the support it needs" to defend itself. Japan, it added, "has demonstrated leadership in supporting Ukraine's defense". Eager to help Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida wants to help Ukraine because his administration fears a Russian victory would embolden China to attack Taiwan and embroil his country in a regional war. Last year, he warned that Ukraine may be "East Asia tomorrow", and his administration announced Japan's biggest military build-up since World War Two. That retreat from the state pacifism that has dominated Japan's foreign policy for decades has not so far extended to lethal military aid, limiting Tokyo's offerings to Kyiv to kit such as flak jackets, helmets and food rations. Following Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Japan during the Hiroshima G7 leaders summit last month, Kishida agreed to donate jeeps and trucks. There appears to be growing acceptance in Japan about providing military aid to Ukraine, but the degree of lethality is contentious, said Tsuneo Watanabe, a senior fellow at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation. "The fact that Japan has decided to give trucks to Ukraine shows that things are changing. However, there doesn't yet appear to be any political consensus around the issue of sending lethal aid," he said. Japan is one of dozens of friends and allies that Washington is asking to help arm Ukraine as it wrestles with stretched military supply chains. South Korea, which also uses 155mm shells, is among those the US has approached. A South Korean defence official told Reuters that Seoul's stance against providing lethal aid to Kyiv had not changed. Asked in Tokyo this week about the possibility of a shift in Japanese policy on lethal aid, Austin said at a press briefing that any change would be a matter for Japan but "any bit of support" for Ukraine was "always welcome". The sources who spoke to Reuters declined to identify the Japanese company that would supply explosives to the US government and did not say how much TNT Washington wanted to buy. Reuters contacted 22 explosives makers listed on the Japan Explosives Industry Association's website. The only one that said it made industrial TNT was Chugoku Kayaku, a Hiroshima-based firm that supplies Japan's military. "We have not received any direct inquiry from the US government or US military," the company said in an email. Asked if it was discussing any TNT sales through an intermediary, the firm, which lists an industrial TNT product on its website, said it did not disclose the identity of customers or potential buyers. Japan's next move Supplying commercial TNT to the US may only be a stop-gap measure because many lawmakers of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) want to ease or eliminate the export restrictions. In December, when Kishida announced Japan's five-year military build-up, he pledged to revise the export rules, opening up the possibility that Japan could supply lethal weapons not only to Ukraine but to other nations that Tokyo and Washington see as potential allies against Russia and China. Akihisa Nagashima, a former deputy defence minister and a ranking LDP member of the parliamentary committee on national security, said the military build-up would take Japan four-fifths of the way to becoming a "normal country" unencumbered by the legacy of its World War Two defeat. "Tackling the export restrictions is the remaining 20 per cent," he said.

US seeking explosives in Japan for Ukraine artillery shells: Report

<p>The coronavirus pandemic had a huge toll on populations worldwide. However, one often ignored the cost of the pandemic stemming&nbsp;from the subsequent lockdowns. With most of the world forced to quarantine themselves, social isolation and loneliness have cropped up as a wound with a lasting scar. To help its citizens navigate their way through social isolation and loneliness, Japan has now introduced legislation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The legislation was approved by the Japanese Parliament Diet's upper chamber on Wednesday. The House of Representatives, the nation's lower chamber, had already cleared the bill in April.</p>

<p>The legislation will go into effect on April 1 next year. Here's all you need to know.</p>

<h2><strong>How will the government help lonely people?</strong></h2>

<p>Local governments and the state will have to work hand-in-hand to tackle social loneliness and isolation, which as per the legislation is "an issue for the entire society".</p>

<p>The legislation calls for the creation of a task force that will be headed by the nation's prime minister. This task force will work on the implementation of countermeasures at the cabinet office. At the same time, it will require the government to formulate a priority policy that will serve as guidelines for such measures.</p>

<p>Japan has taken several steps to tackle the problem. In 2021, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the nation created a post of minister in charge of measures against loneliness and isolation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-unmasks-shocking-toll-social-isolation-has-on-human-body-592437">Research unmasks shocking toll social isolation has on human body</a></strong></p>

<p>A dedicated council was set up at the Central Secretariat and the government also ran an around-the-clock telephonic consultation service, and launched a chatbot-based website.</p>

<h2><strong>Will the government work alone under the legislation?</strong></h2>

<p>No, it obliges local governments to set up regional councils made up of groups that offer help to people suffering from social isolation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per Japan Times, local governments will provide these groups with personal information on individuals suffering from the effects of such isolation. These groups will have to keep the shared information confidential. Any violation of this rule can earn these groups fines up to ¥500,000 or $3,600, and up to 12 months in jail.</p>

<h2><strong>People of what ages are affected?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the legislation, loneliness and social isolation can "affect anyone at any stage of his or her life".&nbsp;Experts say that these issues are one huge factor behind an increase in the number of suicides.</p>

<p>In a survey conducted by the Japanese government in 2022, 40.3 per cent of people said they felt lonely. This number was up 3.9 percentage points from the preceding year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Compared to this, the number of people who said they have never felt lonely dropped by 5.3 percentage points to 18.4 per cent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/people-with-mental-health-issues-at-increased-risk-of-death-in-heat-waves-study-591292">People with mental health issues at increased risk of death in heat waves: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>20,000 individuals aged 16 and up were sent the survey. Of them, 56.1 per cent responded to make up the survey results mentioned above.</p>

<p>The survey helped highlight the need for support measures that could help in the early stages of the problem. Additionally, it also sheds light on the importance of the creation of an environment where people facing social isolation can ask for help.</p>

<h2><strong>Is there any global research on this issue?</strong></h2>

<p>Research published last month shows that isolation affects your energy levels the same way as going without food does.</p>

<p>Researchers from the University of Vienna found that socially isolating for eight hours has detrimental effects on a person. This long without company, a person's body experiences a fall in energy levels equivalent to the decrease that comes with starving for eight hours.</p>

<p>The research suggests that social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic may have had an unexpected energy toll on people.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The coronavirus pandemic had a huge toll on populations worldwide. However, one often ignored the cost of the pandemic stemming from the subsequent lockdowns. With most of the world forced to quarantine themselves, social isolation and loneliness have cropped up as a wound with a lasting scar.

The coronavirus pandemic had a huge toll on populations worldwide. However, one often ignored the cost of the pandemic stemming from the subsequent lockdowns. With most of the world forced to quarantine themselves, social isolation and loneliness have cropped up as a wound with a lasting scar. To help its citizens navigate their way through social isolation and loneliness, Japan has now introduced legislation. The legislation was approved by the Japanese Parliament Diet's upper chamber on Wednesday. The House of Representatives, the nation's lower chamber, had already cleared the bill in April. The legislation will go into effect on April 1 next year. Here's all you need to know. How will the government help lonely people? Local governments and the state will have to work hand-in-hand to tackle social loneliness and isolation, which as per the legislation is "an issue for the entire society". The legislation calls for the creation of a task force that will be headed by the nation's prime minister. This task force will work on the implementation of countermeasures at the cabinet office. At the same time, it will require the government to formulate a priority policy that will serve as guidelines for such measures. Japan has taken several steps to tackle the problem. In 2021, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the nation created a post of minister in charge of measures against loneliness and isolation. Also read | Research unmasks shocking toll social isolation has on human body A dedicated council was set up at the Central Secretariat and the government also ran an around-the-clock telephonic consultation service, and launched a chatbot-based website. Will the government work alone under the legislation? No, it obliges local governments to set up regional councils made up of groups that offer help to people suffering from social isolation. As per Japan Times, local governments will provide these groups with personal information on individuals suffering from the effects of such isolation. These groups will have to keep the shared information confidential. Any violation of this rule can earn these groups fines up to ¥500,000 or $3,600, and up to 12 months in jail. People of what ages are affected? As per the legislation, loneliness and social isolation can "affect anyone at any stage of his or her life". Experts say that these issues are one huge factor behind an increase in the number of suicides. In a survey conducted by the Japanese government in 2022, 40.3 per cent of people said they felt lonely. This number was up 3.9 percentage points from the preceding year. Compared to this, the number of people who said they have never felt lonely dropped by 5.3 percentage points to 18.4 per cent. Also read | People with mental health issues at increased risk of death in heat waves: Study 20,000 individuals aged 16 and up were sent the survey. Of them, 56.1 per cent responded to make up the survey results mentioned above. The survey helped highlight the need for support measures that could help in the early stages of the problem. Additionally, it also sheds light on the importance of the creation of an environment where people facing social isolation can ask for help. Is there any global research on this issue? Research published last month shows that isolation affects your energy levels the same way as going without food does. Researchers from the University of Vienna found that socially isolating for eight hours has detrimental effects on a person. This long without company, a person's body experiences a fall in energy levels equivalent to the decrease that comes with starving for eight hours. The research suggests that social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic may have had an unexpected energy toll on people. (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.

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