<p>North Korea has informed Japan of its plan to launch what it calls a &nbsp;'satellite' &nbsp;between May 31 and June 11, said a Japanese coast guard official on Monday.</p>

<p>As per the Japanese officials, the launch is set to involve a ballistic projectile, according to a tweet from the prime minister's office that alludes to a "ballistic missile that it (Pyongyang) describes as a satellite."</p>

<p>Analysts believe that North Korea is launching its military 'satellite' in an attempt to improve its surveillance technology and advance its ability to strike targets whenever a conflict occurs.</p>

<p>The unnamed Japanese coastguard said that the rocket, which is set to be launched between May 31 and June 11, will plummet into the waters near the Yellow Sea, East China Sea and east of Luzon Island in the Philippines, according to news agency AFP.</p>

<p>In a tweet, the Japanese prime minister's office said that PM Fumio Kishida issued instructions "on North Korea's notification about the launch of a ballistic missile that it describes as a satellite".</p>

<p>He further urged North Korea to abstain and said he would work closely with allies.</p>

<p>"We strongly urge North Korea to refrain from launching," the prime minister's office said on Twitter, adding it would cooperate "with relevant countries such as the U.S. and South Korea".</p>

<p>He has instructed the officials to remain vigilant, issuing an order for the Air Self-Defense Force to knock down any ballistic projectile confirmed to be on course to fall into the country's territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry said that the soldiers would be authorised to use Standard Missile SM-3 and Patriot Missile PAC-3 to destroy the missile in mid-air.</p>

<p>"Even if it's described as a satellite, a launch using ballistic missile technology would be a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions and a serious problem that threatens the safety of people," Kishida told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, North Korean state media published a statement from its vice minister of foreign affairs, appearing to endorse a conciliatory approach to relations with Japan.</p>

<p>If Japan avoids "being shackled by the past, and seeks a way out for improving the relations, there is no reason for the DPRK and Japan not to meet", the statement from Pak Sang Gil said.</p>

<h2><strong>Kim Jong Un seen on site</strong></h2>

<p>North Korea's state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim Jong Un inspected a military satellite facility on May 16 from where the military reconnaissance satellite No. 1 will be launched. According to the report, Kim has also authorised the non-permanent satellite-launching preparatory committee's next stages in the action plan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year in December, a report by the state media said that North Korea has executed an "important final-stage" test of launching a military reconnaissance satellite into orbit at its rocket launching site, with plans to finish preparations for the project by April.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The KCNA had reported that the test was carried out at the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground to "evaluate the capabilities of satellite photography, data transmission system, and ground control system".&nbsp;</p>

<p>KCNA said that on Tuesday, "after acquainting himself in detail with the work of the committee, (Kim) inspected the military reconnaissance satellite No. 1, which is ready for loading after undergoing the final general assembly check and space environment test".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


North Korea has informed Japan of its plan to launch what it calls a 'satellite' between May 31 and June 11, said a Japanese coast guard official on Monday. As per the Japanese officials, the launch is set to involve a ballistic projectile, according to a tweet from the prime minister's office that alludes to a "ballistic missile that it (Pyongyang) describes as a satellite.

North Korea has informed Japan of its plan to launch what it calls a 'satellite' between May 31 and June 11, said a Japanese coast guard official on Monday. As per the Japanese officials, the launch is set to involve a ballistic projectile, according to a tweet from the prime minister's office that alludes to a "ballistic missile that it (Pyongyang) describes as a satellite." Analysts believe that North Korea is launching its military 'satellite' in an attempt to improve its surveillance technology and advance its ability to strike targets whenever a conflict occurs. The unnamed Japanese coastguard said that the rocket, which is set to be launched between May 31 and June 11, will plummet into the waters near the Yellow Sea, East China Sea and east of Luzon Island in the Philippines, according to news agency AFP. In a tweet, the Japanese prime minister's office said that PM Fumio Kishida issued instructions "on North Korea's notification about the launch of a ballistic missile that it describes as a satellite". He further urged North Korea to abstain and said he would work closely with allies. "We strongly urge North Korea to refrain from launching," the prime minister's office said on Twitter, adding it would cooperate "with relevant countries such as the U.S. and South Korea". He has instructed the officials to remain vigilant, issuing an order for the Air Self-Defense Force to knock down any ballistic projectile confirmed to be on course to fall into the country's territory. The ministry said that the soldiers would be authorised to use Standard Missile SM-3 and Patriot Missile PAC-3 to destroy the missile in mid-air. "Even if it's described as a satellite, a launch using ballistic missile technology would be a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions and a serious problem that threatens the safety of people," Kishida told reporters. Meanwhile, North Korean state media published a statement from its vice minister of foreign affairs, appearing to endorse a conciliatory approach to relations with Japan. If Japan avoids "being shackled by the past, and seeks a way out for improving the relations, there is no reason for the DPRK and Japan not to meet", the statement from Pak Sang Gil said. Kim Jong Un seen on site North Korea's state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim Jong Un inspected a military satellite facility on May 16 from where the military reconnaissance satellite No. 1 will be launched. According to the report, Kim has also authorised the non-permanent satellite-launching preparatory committee's next stages in the action plan. Last year in December, a report by the state media said that North Korea has executed an "important final-stage" test of launching a military reconnaissance satellite into orbit at its rocket launching site, with plans to finish preparations for the project by April. The KCNA had reported that the test was carried out at the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground to "evaluate the capabilities of satellite photography, data transmission system, and ground control system". KCNA said that on Tuesday, "after acquainting himself in detail with the work of the committee, (Kim) inspected the military reconnaissance satellite No. 1, which is ready for loading after undergoing the final general assembly check and space environment test". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Satellite or missile? Japan prepares defences as N Korea set for 'ballistic object' launch

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida may dissolve the parliament prematurely to hold snap elections. A new media poll however has found over 60 percent of responders opposing this move. The poll conducted by Japanese media house Kyoto news has found 60.6 percent of respondents opposing a potential parliamentary dissolution by the Japanese prime minister only 30.2 percent expressed support for the move the survey has sampled 511 landlines and over 2 700 mobile phone linked to eligible voters.

Will Fumio Kishida dissolve the parliament prematurely?

<p>Japan's foreign ministry announced late on Thursday (May 25) that the country has signed a deal with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for defence equipment and technology transfer. The move is likely to enhance cooperation in joint research, development and production.</p>

<p>Japan has already signed similar deals with UK, US and Australia. Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party is seeking to ease limits on the country's arms exports. Japan is working to develop next-gen fighter aircraft with UK and Italy. The fighter jet is likely to be marketed beyond these three nations.</p>

<p>According to Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, UAE is the world's 11th largest importer of arms.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Japan: Man arrested after four people killed in a rare gun and knife attack</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-man-arrested-after-four-people-killed-in-a-rare-gun-and-knife-attack-596797/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The accord was signed by Isomata Akio, Japan's Ambassador to UAE and Dr Mubarak Saeed Ghafan Al Jabri, Major General Staff of Assistant Undersecretary for Support and Defence Industries of the Ministry of Defence of the United Arab Emirates</p>

<p>This deal has provided legal framework for both countries and will facilitate transfer of defence equipment and tech and will also enhance co-operation in security and defence.</p>

<p>Japanese foreign ministry said that the provisions in the deal will come into effect after necessary procedures between the governments of the two countries are carried out.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/62-quake-jolts-eastern-coast-near-japans-tokyo-596778">6.2 earthquake jolts Japan’s eastern coast, shakes buildings in Tokyo</a></strong></p>

<p>“It is expected that this agreement will contribute to closer bilateral defense equipment and technology cooperation and maintaining and improving the production and technological bases for Japan’s defence industry, thereby contributing to the security of Japan,” said the ministry.</p>

<h2><strong>Fresh sanctions on Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Japan had on Friday slapped fresh sanctions on Russia in connection with Ukraine war. The sanctions are targetted at its military as well as its construction and engineering sectors.</p>

<p>Russia was hit with a wave of sanctions after it sent forces into Ukraine in February last year, but calls have grown from Kyiv and its allies for tougher action against Moscow.</p>

<p>The latest embargo by Tokyo follows the Group of Seven summit Japan hosted last week in Hiroshima, where the bloc's leaders agreed to "starve Russia of G7 technology, industrial equipment and services that support its war machine".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

<p><strong><em>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Japan's foreign ministry announced late on Thursday (May 25) that the country has signed a deal with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for defence equipment and technology transfer.

Japan's foreign ministry announced late on Thursday (May 25) that the country has signed a deal with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for defence equipment and technology transfer. The move is likely to enhance cooperation in joint research, development and production. Japan has already signed similar deals with UK, US and Australia. Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party is seeking to ease limits on the country's arms exports. Japan is working to develop next-gen fighter aircraft with UK and Italy. The fighter jet is likely to be marketed beyond these three nations. According to Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, UAE is the world's 11th largest importer of arms. Watch | Japan: Man arrested after four people killed in a rare gun and knife attack × The accord was signed by Isomata Akio, Japan's Ambassador to UAE and Dr Mubarak Saeed Ghafan Al Jabri, Major General Staff of Assistant Undersecretary for Support and Defence Industries of the Ministry of Defence of the United Arab Emirates This deal has provided legal framework for both countries and will facilitate transfer of defence equipment and tech and will also enhance co-operation in security and defence. Japanese foreign ministry said that the provisions in the deal will come into effect after necessary procedures between the governments of the two countries are carried out. Also Read | 6.2 earthquake jolts Japan’s eastern coast, shakes buildings in Tokyo “It is expected that this agreement will contribute to closer bilateral defense equipment and technology cooperation and maintaining and improving the production and technological bases for Japan’s defence industry, thereby contributing to the security of Japan,” said the ministry. Fresh sanctions on Russia Japan had on Friday slapped fresh sanctions on Russia in connection with Ukraine war. The sanctions are targetted at its military as well as its construction and engineering sectors. Russia was hit with a wave of sanctions after it sent forces into Ukraine in February last year, but calls have grown from Kyiv and its allies for tougher action against Moscow. The latest embargo by Tokyo follows the Group of Seven summit Japan hosted last week in Hiroshima, where the bloc's leaders agreed to "starve Russia of G7 technology, industrial equipment and services that support its war machine". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan inks pact with UAE for defence equipment, tech transfer

<p>Archaeologists in China have made a stunning discovery. They unearthed a World War II "horror bunker" where the Japanese conducted frightening human experiments and gathered data, according to an SCMP report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bunker has been found in northeast China, near the city of Anda in Heilongjiang province. The site was reportedly used by the infamous Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army which conducted terrifying germ warfare experiments on humans between 1935 and 1945.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Historical records show Unit 731's experiments at the Anda site included infecting prisoners with deadly diseases and testing new biological weapons. Some of the most gruesome studies were conducted in underground bunkers designed to contain and control the spread of infectious agents," the publication noted, referring to the&nbsp;official report that was published in "Northern Cultural Relics" journal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bunker&nbsp;was&nbsp;discovered five feet below the surface and has several interconnected chambers where different experiments were carried out. The&nbsp;archaeologists started the investigation in 2019 but are yet to physically enter the facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>the human subjects were lowered into the bunker for observation and dissection. The subjects were dissected for&nbsp;frostbite and syphilis testing. They were&nbsp;as well also exposed to deadly diseases which could be used to develop biological weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-last-comfort-woman-passes-away-all-you-need-to-know-about-japans-sordid-past-595731"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Taiwan’s last ‘comfort woman’ passes away. All you need to know about Japan’s sordid past</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>USA knew about the horror bunker</strong></h2>

<p>Experts say the discovery of the bunker or the underground laboratory is expected to unearth new evidence about war crimes by the Japanese Army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The facility was destroyed in August 1945 to erase the evidence of the experiments. Notably, the US knew about the inhumane experiments and Japan was granted immunity after its surrender in World War II. Declassified documents in the 1990s revealed that US authorities were aware of the programme and that the data from the Anda facility was&nbsp;used in biological warfare development at Fort Detrick in Maryland.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-opposes-natos-plan-to-open-a-liaison-office-in-japan-596071"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;China opposes NATO's plan to open a Liaison office in Japan</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-opposes-natos-plan-to-open-a-liaison-office-in-japan-596071/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Japan and its violent history</strong></h2>

<p>Japan might be one of the most peaceful nations on the planet currently but its history is saddled with some of the most macabre and bloodstained stories. The Imperial Army is infamous for its blood-curdling activities and the massacre of Chinese soldiers in Nanjing.</p>

<p>The Nanjing massacre took place in December 1937 when the Imperial Army began its seizure of Nanjing, the capital of the Republic of China. According to numerous reports, the Japanese troops mercilessly killed Chinese soldiers in violation of the laws of war, tortured and killed civilians, raped Chinese women and destroyed Chinese property on a scale, whose full extent will never be known.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Archaeologists in China have made a stunning discovery. They unearthed a World War II "horror bunker" where the Japanese conducted frightening human experiments and gathered data, according to an SCMP report.

Archaeologists in China have made a stunning discovery. They unearthed a World War II "horror bunker" where the Japanese conducted frightening human experiments and gathered data, according to an SCMP report. The bunker has been found in northeast China, near the city of Anda in Heilongjiang province. The site was reportedly used by the infamous Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army which conducted terrifying germ warfare experiments on humans between 1935 and 1945. "Historical records show Unit 731's experiments at the Anda site included infecting prisoners with deadly diseases and testing new biological weapons. Some of the most gruesome studies were conducted in underground bunkers designed to contain and control the spread of infectious agents," the publication noted, referring to the official report that was published in "Northern Cultural Relics" journal. The bunker was discovered five feet below the surface and has several interconnected chambers where different experiments were carried out. The archaeologists started the investigation in 2019 but are yet to physically enter the facility. the human subjects were lowered into the bunker for observation and dissection. The subjects were dissected for frostbite and syphilis testing. They were as well also exposed to deadly diseases which could be used to develop biological weapons. ALSO READ | Taiwan’s last ‘comfort woman’ passes away. All you need to know about Japan’s sordid past USA knew about the horror bunker Experts say the discovery of the bunker or the underground laboratory is expected to unearth new evidence about war crimes by the Japanese Army. The facility was destroyed in August 1945 to erase the evidence of the experiments. Notably, the US knew about the inhumane experiments and Japan was granted immunity after its surrender in World War II. Declassified documents in the 1990s revealed that US authorities were aware of the programme and that the data from the Anda facility was used in biological warfare development at Fort Detrick in Maryland. WATCH | China opposes NATO's plan to open a Liaison office in Japan × Japan and its violent history Japan might be one of the most peaceful nations on the planet currently but its history is saddled with some of the most macabre and bloodstained stories. The Imperial Army is infamous for its blood-curdling activities and the massacre of Chinese soldiers in Nanjing. The Nanjing massacre took place in December 1937 when the Imperial Army began its seizure of Nanjing, the capital of the Republic of China. According to numerous reports, the Japanese troops mercilessly killed Chinese soldiers in violation of the laws of war, tortured and killed civilians, raped Chinese women and destroyed Chinese property on a scale, whose full extent will never be known. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Horror bunker' where Japanese conducted 'frightening' human experiments unearthed in China

<p>In the tragic shooting incident in Nagano, Japan, a son of a city assembly chief was arrested Friday. The entire episode resulted in the killing of a policeman in a stabbing while four other people died in a shooting attack, as per the police, reported Japan Times. The 31-year-old suspect Masanori Aoki is believed to be the eldest son of the speaker of the city assembly in Nakano, Nagano Prefecture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aoki allegedly shot&nbsp;a police officer and then barricaded himself in the city official's house and remained inside the residence after allegedly stabbing a woman to death and shooting two policemen. However, the reason behind the killings is still to be ascertained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to local media reports, a masked man carrying what appeared to be a hunting rifle and a knife, on Thursday (May 25), attacked at least four people&nbsp;in the Nagano Prefecture in central Japan.&nbsp;Hours later, the NHK reported that the&nbsp;person escaped from the building and that some other people might still be inside.</p>

<p>As per Kyodo News, a pedestrian reported the incident at around 4:25 pm (local time) which prompted authorities to rush to the scene. The country’s public broadcaster NHK said that the police had received reports that a “man stabbed a woman”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An eyewitness told NHK that he was working nearby when he saw a woman being stabbed. “A woman came running from the road saying ‘help me’ and she fell down,” said the man. He also said that he had called the police and gathered the neighbours to help the woman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Behind her came a man wearing camouflage and carrying a large knife, who stabbed her in the back,” said the eyewitness to the public broadcaster. It was later confirmed that two police officers were also killed, although it was not immediately clear if they had been shot or stabbed.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
According to local media reports citing eyewitnesses,&nbsp;the suspect was asked why would he do such a thing, to which he responded by saying "I killed because I wanted to."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The three were taken to a nearby hospital, where the woman was later pronounced dead, said&nbsp;local media reports, citing the police. Kyodo News reported that a fourth person was also injured but couldn't be rescued as he is&nbsp;too close to the scene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the local police, among those attacked were two male police officers, another man and a woman. The man is said to be dressed in a camouflage hat, top and bottoms with sunglasses and a mask, reported NHK.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police have also warned the locals that a man possessing “a knife or a firearm” is on the run in the area. According to&nbsp;the Kyodo news agency, the perpetrator is said to&nbsp;be barricaded in the house of the city council president and multiple gunshots were heard nearby the site.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Nagano City officials have urged people to stay indoors and children still at local elementary and junior high schools were told to shelter in place. Violent crimes, especially those involving guns, are extremely rare in the country which has&nbsp;a low murder rate and some of the world’s toughest gun laws.<br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


In the tragic shooting incident in Nagano, Japan, a son of a city assembly chief was arrested Friday. The entire episode resulted in the killing of a policeman in a stabbing while four other people died in a shooting attack, as per the police, reported Japan Times.

In the tragic shooting incident in Nagano, Japan, a son of a city assembly chief was arrested Friday. The entire episode resulted in the killing of a policeman in a stabbing while four other people died in a shooting attack, as per the police, reported Japan Times. The 31-year-old suspect Masanori Aoki is believed to be the eldest son of the speaker of the city assembly in Nakano, Nagano Prefecture. Aoki allegedly shot a police officer and then barricaded himself in the city official's house and remained inside the residence after allegedly stabbing a woman to death and shooting two policemen. However, the reason behind the killings is still to be ascertained. According to local media reports, a masked man carrying what appeared to be a hunting rifle and a knife, on Thursday (May 25), attacked at least four people in the Nagano Prefecture in central Japan. Hours later, the NHK reported that the person escaped from the building and that some other people might still be inside. As per Kyodo News, a pedestrian reported the incident at around 4:25 pm (local time) which prompted authorities to rush to the scene. The country’s public broadcaster NHK said that the police had received reports that a “man stabbed a woman”. An eyewitness told NHK that he was working nearby when he saw a woman being stabbed. “A woman came running from the road saying ‘help me’ and she fell down,” said the man. He also said that he had called the police and gathered the neighbours to help the woman. “Behind her came a man wearing camouflage and carrying a large knife, who stabbed her in the back,” said the eyewitness to the public broadcaster. It was later confirmed that two police officers were also killed, although it was not immediately clear if they had been shot or stabbed. According to local media reports citing eyewitnesses, the suspect was asked why would he do such a thing, to which he responded by saying "I killed because I wanted to." The three were taken to a nearby hospital, where the woman was later pronounced dead, said local media reports, citing the police. Kyodo News reported that a fourth person was also injured but couldn't be rescued as he is too close to the scene. According to the local police, among those attacked were two male police officers, another man and a woman. The man is said to be dressed in a camouflage hat, top and bottoms with sunglasses and a mask, reported NHK. The police have also warned the locals that a man possessing “a knife or a firearm” is on the run in the area. According to the Kyodo news agency, the perpetrator is said to be barricaded in the house of the city council president and multiple gunshots were heard nearby the site. Meanwhile, Nagano City officials have urged people to stay indoors and children still at local elementary and junior high schools were told to shelter in place. Violent crimes, especially those involving guns, are extremely rare in the country which has a low murder rate and some of the world’s toughest gun laws. 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: Suspect arrested after at least four killed in Nagano shooting incident

<p>A strong 6.2 magnitude earthquake (on the Richter scale) struck eastern Tokyo city in Japan on Friday, local media reported citing the meteorological agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p dir="ltr">The epicentre was recorded at a depth of 50 kilometres off eastern Chiba Prefecture on Friday at 7.03 pm (10.03 GMT).&nbsp; No tsunami warning has been issued so far.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The quake was felt strongly in the capital Tokyo city, forcing railway officials to briefly stop train services in the area and runways at Narita Airport, an international gateway to Tokyo, were closed temporarily. Tremors were also felt in&nbsp;the adjoining areas of Chiba and Ibaraki prefectures, the Japanese Times newspaper reported.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Train services were stopped briefly in the area and runways at Narita Airport, an international gateway to Tokyo, were closed temporarily when the tremors started.</p>

<p>The nuclear plants were also left largely unscathed by the temblor, with no abnormalities being detected, the national nuclear authority said.</p>

<p>As Tokyo residents felt shaking, the nation's advance warning system for earthquakes prompted television networks to alert the arrival of a potentially large eartquake.</p>

<p>"It was like being on a boat floating on water -- sideways rocking that seemed to go on for more than 30 seconds," said a presenter on public broadcaster NHK.&nbsp;There were no immediate reports of major damage.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Gravitas | Indonesia earthquake: Is the Pacific region exploding?</strong></h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indonesia-earthquake-is-the-pacific-region-exploding-586141/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Japan has strict construction regulations intended to ensure buildings can withstand strong quakes, and routinely holds emergency drills to prepare people for major disasters.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Friday’s tremors come just three weeks after a magnitude 6.5 quake was reported off Ishikawa Prefecture, killing one man and injuring several others.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Japan is one of the world’s most seismically active areas, accounting for about one-fifth of the world’s earthquakes of magnitude 6 or greater. Hence, such temblors are pretty common in the Asian country.</p>

<p dir="ltr">It recorded its strongest quake in March 2011 after a massive 9 magnitude struck the northeast coast, triggering a massive tsunami that&nbsp;left around 18,500 people dead or missing.</p>

<p>The 2011 tsunami also sent three reactors into meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant, causing Japan's worst post-war disaster and the most serious nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986.</p>

<p>The Japanese capital was devastated by a huge earthquake a century&nbsp;ago&nbsp;in&nbsp;1923.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><i>(With inputs from agencies)</i></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A strong 6.2 magnitude earthquake (on the Richter scale) struck eastern Tokyo city in Japan on Friday, local media reported citing the meteorological agency. The epicentre was recorded at a depth of 50 kilometres off eastern Chiba Prefecture on Friday at 7.

A strong 6.2 magnitude earthquake (on the Richter scale) struck eastern Tokyo city in Japan on Friday, local media reported citing the meteorological agency. The epicentre was recorded at a depth of 50 kilometres off eastern Chiba Prefecture on Friday at 7.03 pm (10.03 GMT). No tsunami warning has been issued so far. The quake was felt strongly in the capital Tokyo city, forcing railway officials to briefly stop train services in the area and runways at Narita Airport, an international gateway to Tokyo, were closed temporarily. Tremors were also felt in the adjoining areas of Chiba and Ibaraki prefectures, the Japanese Times newspaper reported. Train services were stopped briefly in the area and runways at Narita Airport, an international gateway to Tokyo, were closed temporarily when the tremors started. The nuclear plants were also left largely unscathed by the temblor, with no abnormalities being detected, the national nuclear authority said. As Tokyo residents felt shaking, the nation's advance warning system for earthquakes prompted television networks to alert the arrival of a potentially large eartquake. "It was like being on a boat floating on water -- sideways rocking that seemed to go on for more than 30 seconds," said a presenter on public broadcaster NHK. There were no immediate reports of major damage. Gravitas | Indonesia earthquake: Is the Pacific region exploding? Japan has strict construction regulations intended to ensure buildings can withstand strong quakes, and routinely holds emergency drills to prepare people for major disasters. Friday’s tremors come just three weeks after a magnitude 6.5 quake was reported off Ishikawa Prefecture, killing one man and injuring several others. Japan is one of the world’s most seismically active areas, accounting for about one-fifth of the world’s earthquakes of magnitude 6 or greater. Hence, such temblors are pretty common in the Asian country. It recorded its strongest quake in March 2011 after a massive 9 magnitude struck the northeast coast, triggering a massive tsunami that left around 18,500 people dead or missing. The 2011 tsunami also sent three reactors into meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant, causing Japan's worst post-war disaster and the most serious nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986. The Japanese capital was devastated by a huge earthquake a century ago in 1923. (With inputs from agencies)

6.2 earthquake jolts Japan’s eastern coast, shakes buildings in Tokyo

A 31-year-old guy has been detained by Japanese authorities in a rural area on suspicion of murder. the arrest follows an unusual shooting and stopping episode that resulted in a 12-hour standoff with the police and the deaths of four persons.

Japan: Man arrested after four people killed in a rare gun and knife attack

<p>Japan will place additional sanctions on Russia after the Group of Seven (G7) summit the country hosted last week agreed to step up measures to punish Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said on Friday.</p>

<p>Matsuno, Tokyo's top government spokesperson, also condemned Russia's move on Thursday to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, saying it would further intensify situations around the invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/more-than-5000-new-species-discovered-in-planned-mining-zone-of-pacific-ocean-596583">More than 5,000 new species discovered on seabed of Pacific Ocean</a></p>

<p>"As the only country to have suffered atomic bombings during wartime, Japan never accepts Russia's nuclear menace, let alone its use," Matsuno told a regular press conference.</p>

<p>The leaders of G7, including the United States, Britain, Germany and France, last week showed their resolve to support Ukraine with additional military aids and sanctions on Russia, at the annual summit held in the world's first atomic-bombed city Hiroshima.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musks-neuralink-cleared-for-human-test-of-brain-implants-596576">Elon Musk's Neuralink cleared for human test of brain implants</a></p>

<p>In a co-ordinated action with G7, Japan will freeze assets of 78 groups and 17 individuals including army officers in Russia and ban exports to 80 Russian entities such as military-affiliated research labs, according to a Friday foreign ministry statement.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Battleground Bakhmut: Russia vs Ukraine | WION Wideangle</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/battleground-bakhmut-russia-vs-ukraine-wion-wideangle-596550/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Japan will also ban providing construction and engineering services to Russia, although the details of the measure will be announced at a later date, a trade ministry statement said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Japan will place additional sanctions on Russia after the Group of Seven (G7) summit the country hosted last week agreed to step up measures to punish Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said on Friday.

Japan will place additional sanctions on Russia after the Group of Seven (G7) summit the country hosted last week agreed to step up measures to punish Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said on Friday. Matsuno, Tokyo's top government spokesperson, also condemned Russia's move on Thursday to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, saying it would further intensify situations around the invasion of Ukraine. Also Read | More than 5,000 new species discovered on seabed of Pacific Ocean "As the only country to have suffered atomic bombings during wartime, Japan never accepts Russia's nuclear menace, let alone its use," Matsuno told a regular press conference. The leaders of G7, including the United States, Britain, Germany and France, last week showed their resolve to support Ukraine with additional military aids and sanctions on Russia, at the annual summit held in the world's first atomic-bombed city Hiroshima. Also Read | Elon Musk's Neuralink cleared for human test of brain implants In a co-ordinated action with G7, Japan will freeze assets of 78 groups and 17 individuals including army officers in Russia and ban exports to 80 Russian entities such as military-affiliated research labs, according to a Friday foreign ministry statement. Watch | Battleground Bakhmut: Russia vs Ukraine | WION Wideangle × Japan will also ban providing construction and engineering services to Russia, although the details of the measure will be announced at a later date, a trade ministry statement said. 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 ramps up Russia sanctions with G7, condemns nuke deployment in Belarus

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe met Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Tokyo. The two leaders affirmed the importance of transparent and fair debt restructuring, according to a summary of their discussions issued by Japan.

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe meets Japanese PM Fumio Kishida

<p>The Japanese defence ministry, on Thursday (May 25), said that it scrambled fighters after it saw&nbsp;what it described as Russian “intelligence-gathering” aircraft&nbsp;off its coast. The brief statement released by Japan’s Joint Staff said that it detected the Russian aircraft IL-20&nbsp;along the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the statement, the military planes flew a round-trip from the Sea of Okhotsk to the Pacific while the other IL-20 flew toward the waters near Sado Island before turning toward the continent.&nbsp;The aircraft in question travelled from Japan's north down along part of its west coast, while the other took a similar route along the opposite coast and returned the same way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In response, fighters of the Air Self-Defense Force’s Northern Air Force and other units were scrambled,” said the Japanese defence ministry. The brief statement did not give any further information about the incident.</p>

<p>This comes days after Japan hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) summit, in Hiroshima. Similarly, last year, Chinese and Russian military jets carried out joint flights when&nbsp;Tokyo hosted the Quad Summit with the leaders of the United States, India, Australia, and Japan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Japan has also recently joined its allies in the West to announce sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine which began over a year ago. In its latest security document, Tokyo, which, had previously called to strengthen ties and cooperation with Moscow, has&nbsp;now warned of its military posturing in Asia and called its cooperation with China “a strong security concern”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia has also now dubbed Japan as a “hostile” country, a category which it now shares with the countries in the European Union, the US, the United Kingdom, and Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this year, Moscow also carried out military exercises, where the Russian Navy, test-fired supersonic anti-ship missiles at a mock target in the Sea of Japan, which was some 100 kilometres away. Another test was conducted in late March, a week after two Russian strategic bomber planes flew over the Sea of Japan for more than seven hours in what Moscow said was a “planned flight”.</p>

<p>At the time, Japan’s foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, in his daily press conference, said that Tokyo will be more vigilant against Russia’s military operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The Japanese defence ministry, on Thursday (May 25), said that it scrambled fighters after it saw what it described as Russian “intelligence-gathering” aircraft off its coast.

The Japanese defence ministry, on Thursday (May 25), said that it scrambled fighters after it saw what it described as Russian “intelligence-gathering” aircraft off its coast. The brief statement released by Japan’s Joint Staff said that it detected the Russian aircraft IL-20 along the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan. According to the statement, the military planes flew a round-trip from the Sea of Okhotsk to the Pacific while the other IL-20 flew toward the waters near Sado Island before turning toward the continent. The aircraft in question travelled from Japan's north down along part of its west coast, while the other took a similar route along the opposite coast and returned the same way. “In response, fighters of the Air Self-Defense Force’s Northern Air Force and other units were scrambled,” said the Japanese defence ministry. The brief statement did not give any further information about the incident. This comes days after Japan hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) summit, in Hiroshima. Similarly, last year, Chinese and Russian military jets carried out joint flights when Tokyo hosted the Quad Summit with the leaders of the United States, India, Australia, and Japan. Japan has also recently joined its allies in the West to announce sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine which began over a year ago. In its latest security document, Tokyo, which, had previously called to strengthen ties and cooperation with Moscow, has now warned of its military posturing in Asia and called its cooperation with China “a strong security concern”. Meanwhile, Russia has also now dubbed Japan as a “hostile” country, a category which it now shares with the countries in the European Union, the US, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Earlier this year, Moscow also carried out military exercises, where the Russian Navy, test-fired supersonic anti-ship missiles at a mock target in the Sea of Japan, which was some 100 kilometres away. Another test was conducted in late March, a week after two Russian strategic bomber planes flew over the Sea of Japan for more than seven hours in what Moscow said was a “planned flight”. At the time, Japan’s foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, in his daily press conference, said that Tokyo will be more vigilant against Russia’s military operations. (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 scrambles jets after Russian ‘intelligence-gathering’ aircraft detected off its coast

China may move up its plan to build a world-class military by the mid-21st century. This is as per the draft of the annual defence report by Japan. This comes after claims that Beijing is building up and modernising its military. China could possess fifteen hundred nuclear warheads by 2035. China is focused on seeking dominance in new frontiers including the outer space, cyberspace and electromagnetic warfare. Chinese leader Xi Jinping vowed to build a world-class military by the mid-21st century..

Japanese defence: China might move up plan to build world-class military by mid-21st century

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida says that Japan has no plans to join NATO, but has agreed to a liaison office in the nation. China has called out NATO and said that the new move will not be welcome. Why did NATO not include Japan as a member earlier? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Japan says no to NATO membership

China may move up its plan to build a world-class military by the mid-21st century. This as per the draft of the annual Defence report by Japan. This comes after claims that Beijing is building up and modernising its military. China could possess fifteen hundred nuclear warheads by 2035.

China could have 1,500 Nuclear warheads by 2035: Japenese Defence Report draft

<p>Japan is hosting the&nbsp;G7 Summit&nbsp;in Hiroshima, the home town of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, from May 19 -21, welcoming leaders form Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The European Union is a ‘non-enumerated member’. Additionally, the United Kingdom will impose fresh sanctions on Russia, including a ban on diamonds and copper. In other news,&nbsp;Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has&nbsp;introduced articles of impeachment against President Joe Biden over his handling of migrant crossings along the United States-Mexico border.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-summit-2023-us-g7-to-announce-further-sanctions-against-russia-over-ukraine-593884">G7 summit LIVE 2023: US, 'Group of Seven' to announce further sanctions against Russia over Ukraine</a></p>

<p><img alt="pic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bc6fc70-9015-4499-8de8-2302c45d8585" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv-15.jpg" /></p>

<p>The G7 summit is being hosted by Japan's G7 presidency&nbsp;this year in Hiroshima, Japan.&nbsp;The&nbsp;summit in Hiroshima&nbsp;provides an opportunity for G7 leaders to demonstrate their strong commitment to upholding the international order based on the rule of law, as well as to expand their outreach to the Global South.</p>

<p>The United States and the rest of the "Group of Seven" major economies will announce additional sanctions and export limits targeting Russia for its war in Ukraine, a US official said ahead of a G7 summit in Japan.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rip-youtube-elon-musk-rolls-out-game-changing-new-feature-for-twitter-blue-subscribers-593898">RIP YouTube? Elon Musk rolls out game-changing new feature for Twitter Blue subscribers</a></p>

<p><img alt="pic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="184ba36e-980b-452f-85a6-b4f9bf8d0b10" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/350549-untitled-design-2023-05-08t221619119.png.jpeg" /></p>

<p>Twitter is continuously evolving and introducing new features over time and on Thursday Elon Musk announced yet another feature that will allow Twitter Blue subscribers to be able to upload two-hour-long videos. Taking to Twitter, Musk said, "Twitter Blue Verified subscribers can now upload 2-hour videos (8GB)!" This is a big change as Twitter Blue earlier provided 60 minutes to Twitter Blue subscribers. Meanwhile, non-Blue subscribers will only be able to upload videos up to a length of 140 seconds.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-imposes-new-russian-sanctions-including-ban-on-diamonds-copper-593877">UK unveils new Russian sanctions, including ban on diamonds, copper</a></p>

<p><img alt="pic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a26e0dfb-ac30-4783-86f6-9392d4972cdc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/352760-rishi-sunak-2.png.jpeg" /></p>

<p>The United Kingdom on Friday (May 19) unveiled new sanctions against Russia's minerals sector. In the latest round, Britain has targeted imports of aluminium, diamonds, copper, and nickel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the margins of a G7 summit in Japan, said, "As today's sanctions announcements demonstrate, the G7 remains unified in the face of the threat from Russia and steadfast in our support for Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-congresswoman-announces-impeachment-articles-against-president-joe-biden-593860">Republican congresswoman announces impeachment articles against President Joe Biden</a></p>

<p><img alt="pic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eef30c58-b307-4e83-aedc-a3c4a6e8ced3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/352746-joe-biden-and-marjorie-taylor-greene.png.jpeg" /></p>

<p>Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene on Thursday introduced articles of impeachment against President Joe Biden over his handling of migrant crossings along the United States-Mexico border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Greene said: "It is with the highest amount of solemnity that I announce my intention to introduce articles of impeachment today on the head of this America-at-last Executive Branch that has been working since January 20th, 2021, to systematically destroy this country: the President of the United States, Joseph Robinette Biden."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-made-an-accounting-error-it-overvalued-ukraines-weapons-aid-by-3-billion-593869">Pentagon made an accounting error. It overvalued Ukraine's weapons aid by $3 billion</a></p>

<p><img alt="pic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eca7e9ca-fd98-4757-a62b-4266aa896583" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/345892-wion-images-2023-04-17t163531344.png.jpeg" /></p>

<p>The United States, among other Western nations, sent million-dollar worth of military aid to Ukraine to help in its fight against Russia in the ongoing war which began after Moscow launched a "special military" operation on February 24 last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the Pentagon overestimated the value of the ammunition, missiles and other equipment it sent to Ukraine, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday citing a Senate aide and a defence official.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Japan is hosting the G7 Summit in Hiroshima, the home town of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, from May 19 -21, welcoming leaders form Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Japan is hosting the G7 Summit in Hiroshima, the home town of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, from May 19 -21, welcoming leaders form Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The European Union is a ‘non-enumerated member’. Additionally, the United Kingdom will impose fresh sanctions on Russia, including a ban on diamonds and copper. In other news, Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has introduced articles of impeachment against President Joe Biden over his handling of migrant crossings along the United States-Mexico border. Click on the headlines to read more. G7 summit LIVE 2023: US, 'Group of Seven' to announce further sanctions against Russia over Ukraine The G7 summit is being hosted by Japan's G7 presidency this year in Hiroshima, Japan. The summit in Hiroshima provides an opportunity for G7 leaders to demonstrate their strong commitment to upholding the international order based on the rule of law, as well as to expand their outreach to the Global South. The United States and the rest of the "Group of Seven" major economies will announce additional sanctions and export limits targeting Russia for its war in Ukraine, a US official said ahead of a G7 summit in Japan. RIP YouTube? Elon Musk rolls out game-changing new feature for Twitter Blue subscribers Twitter is continuously evolving and introducing new features over time and on Thursday Elon Musk announced yet another feature that will allow Twitter Blue subscribers to be able to upload two-hour-long videos. Taking to Twitter, Musk said, "Twitter Blue Verified subscribers can now upload 2-hour videos (8GB)!" This is a big change as Twitter Blue earlier provided 60 minutes to Twitter Blue subscribers. Meanwhile, non-Blue subscribers will only be able to upload videos up to a length of 140 seconds. UK unveils new Russian sanctions, including ban on diamonds, copper The United Kingdom on Friday (May 19) unveiled new sanctions against Russia's minerals sector. In the latest round, Britain has targeted imports of aluminium, diamonds, copper, and nickel. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the margins of a G7 summit in Japan, said, "As today's sanctions announcements demonstrate, the G7 remains unified in the face of the threat from Russia and steadfast in our support for Ukraine." Republican congresswoman announces impeachment articles against President Joe Biden Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene on Thursday introduced articles of impeachment against President Joe Biden over his handling of migrant crossings along the United States-Mexico border. In a statement, Greene said: "It is with the highest amount of solemnity that I announce my intention to introduce articles of impeachment today on the head of this America-at-last Executive Branch that has been working since January 20th, 2021, to systematically destroy this country: the President of the United States, Joseph Robinette Biden." Pentagon made an accounting error. It overvalued Ukraine's weapons aid by $3 billion The United States, among other Western nations, sent million-dollar worth of military aid to Ukraine to help in its fight against Russia in the ongoing war which began after Moscow launched a "special military" operation on February 24 last year. But the Pentagon overestimated the value of the ammunition, missiles and other equipment it sent to Ukraine, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday citing a Senate aide and a defence official.

Morning brief: Japan hosts G7 meet in Hiroshima, impeachment articles against Biden, and more

<p>Taiwan's last known "comfort woman" has passed away. According to a statement released by the Taipei Women's Rescue Foundation (TWRF) on Monday (May 22), the Taiwanese woman who was coerced into becoming a "comfort woman" for the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II has passed away.</p>

<p>The woman, aged 92, died on the evening of May 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a statement published by the organisation on its website, in consideration of her desire for privacy, TWRF withheld the announcement of her passing until after her funeral had taken place.</p>

<p>"Since grandma didn't want to be disturbed when she was alive, we waited for the farewell ceremony before releasing this news," they wrote. The original statement was written in traditional Chinese.</p>

<p>The group said that its members had maintained regular contact with the woman's family and often visited her home to engage in conversation or simply provide companionship. Taiwan News reports that despite her advanced age, the members of the organisation were deeply saddened by the news of her death.</p>

<p>Shortly before the farewell ceremony, social workers from TWRF paid their respects at the woman's mourning hall and extended condolences to her family. On the day of the funeral, TWRF Chair Theresa D. Yeh reportedly attended the ceremony.</p>

<p>TWRF expressed its commitment to ensuring that the "historical truth of the 'comfort women'/military sex slaves in Taiwan" is included in the country's educational curriculum, National History Museum, and history books. By doing so, they aim to prevent this history from fading away with the passing of these women.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The foundation also pledged to continue its efforts towards educating the public about the harm inflicted upon women through sexual violence during World War II and to continue demanding an apology and compensation from the Japanese government for the victims and their family members.</p>

<h2><strong>Who were comfort women?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Association for Asian Studies, "comfort women refers to the system of sexual slavery created and controlled by the Imperial Japanese government between 1932 and 1945."</p>

<p>"It is the largest case of government-sponsored human trafficking and sexual slavery in modern history."</p>

<p>However, many experts contend that the Japanese military's euphemism "comfort women" obscures the gravity of the crime and the much more accurate term would be "military sexual slaves".</p>

<h2><strong>Why was this practice started?</strong></h2>

<p>As per history.com, "On December 13, 1937, Japanese troops began a six-week-long massacre that essentially destroyed the Chinese city of Nanking. Along the way, Japanese troops raped between 20,000 and 80,000 Chinese women."</p>

<p>These mass rapes horrified the world and concerned about Japan's image, Emperor Hirohito established military brothels or the so-called "comfort stations".</p>

<h2><strong>Where did these ‘comfort women’ come from?</strong></h2>

<p>During the initial phase, comfort stations were initially staffed by Japanese prostitutes who volunteered for the role. However, as the Japanese military expanded its operations in the late 1930s, it resorted to coercing women from the local populations in occupied territories like Korea, Taiwan, and China into providing sexual services at these stations.</p>

<h2>How many women were put through this ordeal?</h2>

<p>While the true numbers remain unknown, estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands of women, including girls as young as 12 years old were victimised.</p>

<p>These women were forced into prostitution "comforting" the tens of thousands of military men during World War II.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Taiwan's last known "comfort woman" has passed away. According to a statement released by the Taipei Women's Rescue Foundation (TWRF) on Monday (May 22), the Taiwanese woman who was coerced into becoming a "comfort woman" for the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II has passed away.

Taiwan's last known "comfort woman" has passed away. According to a statement released by the Taipei Women's Rescue Foundation (TWRF) on Monday (May 22), the Taiwanese woman who was coerced into becoming a "comfort woman" for the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II has passed away. The woman, aged 92, died on the evening of May 10. As per a statement published by the organisation on its website, in consideration of her desire for privacy, TWRF withheld the announcement of her passing until after her funeral had taken place. "Since grandma didn't want to be disturbed when she was alive, we waited for the farewell ceremony before releasing this news," they wrote. The original statement was written in traditional Chinese. The group said that its members had maintained regular contact with the woman's family and often visited her home to engage in conversation or simply provide companionship. Taiwan News reports that despite her advanced age, the members of the organisation were deeply saddened by the news of her death. Shortly before the farewell ceremony, social workers from TWRF paid their respects at the woman's mourning hall and extended condolences to her family. On the day of the funeral, TWRF Chair Theresa D. Yeh reportedly attended the ceremony. TWRF expressed its commitment to ensuring that the "historical truth of the 'comfort women'/military sex slaves in Taiwan" is included in the country's educational curriculum, National History Museum, and history books. By doing so, they aim to prevent this history from fading away with the passing of these women. The foundation also pledged to continue its efforts towards educating the public about the harm inflicted upon women through sexual violence during World War II and to continue demanding an apology and compensation from the Japanese government for the victims and their family members. Who were comfort women? As per the Association for Asian Studies, "comfort women refers to the system of sexual slavery created and controlled by the Imperial Japanese government between 1932 and 1945." "It is the largest case of government-sponsored human trafficking and sexual slavery in modern history." However, many experts contend that the Japanese military's euphemism "comfort women" obscures the gravity of the crime and the much more accurate term would be "military sexual slaves". Why was this practice started? As per history.com, "On December 13, 1937, Japanese troops began a six-week-long massacre that essentially destroyed the Chinese city of Nanking. Along the way, Japanese troops raped between 20,000 and 80,000 Chinese women." These mass rapes horrified the world and concerned about Japan's image, Emperor Hirohito established military brothels or the so-called "comfort stations". Where did these ‘comfort women’ come from? During the initial phase, comfort stations were initially staffed by Japanese prostitutes who volunteered for the role. However, as the Japanese military expanded its operations in the late 1930s, it resorted to coercing women from the local populations in occupied territories like Korea, Taiwan, and China into providing sexual services at these stations. How many women were put through this ordeal? While the true numbers remain unknown, estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands of women, including girls as young as 12 years old were victimised. These women were forced into prostitution "comforting" the tens of thousands of military men during World War II. (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.

Taiwan’s last ‘comfort woman’ passes away. All you need to know about Japan’s sordid past

China warned the NATO against implementing its plans of integrating a Liaison office in Japan to coordinate with the allies in the Indo-Pacific region.

China opposes NATO's plan to open a Liaison office in Japan

<p>China's automobile exports increased by about 60 per cent&nbsp;in the first quarter, surpassing Japan as the world's top automotive exporter.</p>

<p>As per&nbsp;the most recent statistics from the General Administration of Customs, China's automotive exports increased by 58 per cent year on year to over 1.1 million units from January to March. Meanwhile, according to the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Japan exported 954,000 automobiles.</p>

<p>The surplus is expected to persist as China's auto exports may increase by about 30 per cent&nbsp;to four million cars this year, exceeding Japan's yearly forecast, according to the China Passenger Auto Association, reported Yicai Global.</p>

<h2><strong>What's the trend?</strong></h2>

<p>The trend has been evident for some time, as China shipped 3.1 million automobiles last year, surpassing Germany to become the world's second-largest auto exporter, trailing only Japan.</p>

<p>Chinese automakers are looking for fresh opportunities abroad, since exports accounted for about 12 per cent&nbsp;of total Chinese vehicle sales last year, rising to nearly 18 per cent&nbsp;in the first quarter.</p>

<p>As per&nbsp;Shi Jianhua, deputy secretary-general of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, if the percentage grows to 20 per cent, China would be on its way to becoming a major auto exports country.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dangerous-airbag-alert-over-30-million-us-drivers-unaware-if-they-are-at-risk-593969"><strong>&nbsp;</strong>Dangerous airbag alert! Over 30 million US drivers unaware if they are at risk</a></p>

<p>China's auto exports have risen in recent years because suppliers have been less affected by chip and battery shortages in Europe, the United States, and Japan, and they have been able to fill the output gap of new energy vehicles and gas-powered cars, according to an auto exporter in Wuhu, Anhui province.</p>

<p>Experts believe that&nbsp;as competition in the Chinese market heats up, local automakers might enhance their sales and profit margins by exporting their goods.</p>

<p>As per CAAM figures, China's car exports increased by nearly thrice last month to 425,000 units. SAIC Motor shipped 82,000 vehicles, nearly double its previous figure. BYD's shipments increased roughly 17-fold to 15,000 units.</p>

<h2><strong>Stats from 2022</strong></h2>

<p>In 2022, China became the world's second largest car exporter by surpassing Germany. GAC data showed that China exported 3.22 million vehicles in 2022, increasing 56.8 per cent year-on-year while Germany exported 2.61 million vehicles.</p>

<p>Xu Haidong, deputy general engineer of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), said that China-made vehicles have become more competitive on a global level, owing to tough&nbsp;quality control, sophisticated industrial chain and advanced maintenance services, reported the Global Times.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


China's automobile exports increased by about 60 per cent in the first quarter, surpassing Japan as the world's top automotive exporter. As per the most recent statistics from the General Administration of Customs, China's automotive exports increased by 58 per cent year on year to over 1.

China's automobile exports increased by about 60 per cent in the first quarter, surpassing Japan as the world's top automotive exporter. As per the most recent statistics from the General Administration of Customs, China's automotive exports increased by 58 per cent year on year to over 1.1 million units from January to March. Meanwhile, according to the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Japan exported 954,000 automobiles. The surplus is expected to persist as China's auto exports may increase by about 30 per cent to four million cars this year, exceeding Japan's yearly forecast, according to the China Passenger Auto Association, reported Yicai Global. What's the trend? The trend has been evident for some time, as China shipped 3.1 million automobiles last year, surpassing Germany to become the world's second-largest auto exporter, trailing only Japan. Chinese automakers are looking for fresh opportunities abroad, since exports accounted for about 12 per cent of total Chinese vehicle sales last year, rising to nearly 18 per cent in the first quarter. As per Shi Jianhua, deputy secretary-general of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, if the percentage grows to 20 per cent, China would be on its way to becoming a major auto exports country. ALSO READ | Dangerous airbag alert! Over 30 million US drivers unaware if they are at risk China's auto exports have risen in recent years because suppliers have been less affected by chip and battery shortages in Europe, the United States, and Japan, and they have been able to fill the output gap of new energy vehicles and gas-powered cars, according to an auto exporter in Wuhu, Anhui province. Experts believe that as competition in the Chinese market heats up, local automakers might enhance their sales and profit margins by exporting their goods. As per CAAM figures, China's car exports increased by nearly thrice last month to 425,000 units. SAIC Motor shipped 82,000 vehicles, nearly double its previous figure. BYD's shipments increased roughly 17-fold to 15,000 units. Stats from 2022 In 2022, China became the world's second largest car exporter by surpassing Germany. GAC data showed that China exported 3.22 million vehicles in 2022, increasing 56.8 per cent year-on-year while Germany exported 2.61 million vehicles. Xu Haidong, deputy general engineer of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), said that China-made vehicles have become more competitive on a global level, owing to tough quality control, sophisticated industrial chain and advanced maintenance services, reported the Global Times. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China becomes world’s top auto exporter, outperforming Japan

<p>China and Russia already registered their strong protest against the G7 communique which rebuked both nations over issues ranging from human rights violations, marine militarisation and war in Ukraine. However, it seems Beijing wants to take it a notch up and make it a case in point. China Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong summoned the Japanese ambassador over the G7 joint statement, a ministry statement said Sunday.</p>

<p>Chinese minister Sun said Japan along with the other G7 leaders built&nbsp;"hype around China-related issues" at the Group of Seven (G7) summit over the weekend."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/debt-ceiling-biden-mccarthy-to-meet-monday-after-productive-phone-call-594885">Debt ceiling: Biden, McCarthy to meet Monday after 'productive' phone call</a></p>

<p>Pointing towards the content of the statement, Sun said the joint declaration "smear and attack China, grossly interfering in China's internal affairs, violating the basic principles of international law and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan."</p>

<p>Sun was apparently speaking about the 1972 joint statement which was issued between China and Japan. As per the 1972 statement, Japan and China had agreed on "non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit and peaceful co-existence."</p>

<p>China is of the view that Japan's stance in the joint statement is damaging for Beijing's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Sun expressed strong dissatisfaction and registered a stern opposition.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/hundreds-of-thousands-lose-jobs-in-2023-as-tech-giants-race-to-cut-costs-594876">Hundreds of thousands lose jobs in 2023 as tech giants race to cut costs</a></p>

<p>"Japan should correct its understanding of China, grasp strategic autonomy, adhere to the principles of the four political documents between China and Japan, and truly promote the stable development of bilateral relations with a constructive attitude," Sun said.</p>

<p>The Chinese embassy in Britain had earlier urged London to stop defaming and disparaging China in order to prevent additional harm to the relationship between China and the UK.</p>

<h2><strong>What did G7 statement say on China?</strong></h2>

<p>The joint declaration voiced its concerns about the human rights situation in China, including in Tibet and Xinjiang saying "forced labor is of major concern."</p>

<p>It also called China to "honor its commitments under the Sino-British Joint Declaration and the Basic Law, which enshrine rights, freedoms and a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: US President Joe Biden vows unwavering support to Ukraine</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-us-president-joe-biden-vows-unwavering-support-to-ukraine-594898/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Urging China to uphold the Law of the Seas, the leaders in the communique said there is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea. It opposed China’s militarization activities in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from China, the leaders also condemned, in the strongest terms, the war of aggression by Russia against Ukraine pointing that it constitutes a "serious violation of international law, including the UN Charter."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


China and Russia already registered their strong protest against the G7 communique which rebuked both nations over issues ranging from human rights violations, marine militarisation and war in Ukraine.

China and Russia already registered their strong protest against the G7 communique which rebuked both nations over issues ranging from human rights violations, marine militarisation and war in Ukraine. However, it seems Beijing wants to take it a notch up and make it a case in point. China Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong summoned the Japanese ambassador over the G7 joint statement, a ministry statement said Sunday. Chinese minister Sun said Japan along with the other G7 leaders built "hype around China-related issues" at the Group of Seven (G7) summit over the weekend." Also Read | Debt ceiling: Biden, McCarthy to meet Monday after 'productive' phone call Pointing towards the content of the statement, Sun said the joint declaration "smear and attack China, grossly interfering in China's internal affairs, violating the basic principles of international law and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan." Sun was apparently speaking about the 1972 joint statement which was issued between China and Japan. As per the 1972 statement, Japan and China had agreed on "non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit and peaceful co-existence." China is of the view that Japan's stance in the joint statement is damaging for Beijing's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Sun expressed strong dissatisfaction and registered a stern opposition. Also Read | Hundreds of thousands lose jobs in 2023 as tech giants race to cut costs "Japan should correct its understanding of China, grasp strategic autonomy, adhere to the principles of the four political documents between China and Japan, and truly promote the stable development of bilateral relations with a constructive attitude," Sun said. The Chinese embassy in Britain had earlier urged London to stop defaming and disparaging China in order to prevent additional harm to the relationship between China and the UK. What did G7 statement say on China? The joint declaration voiced its concerns about the human rights situation in China, including in Tibet and Xinjiang saying "forced labor is of major concern." It also called China to "honor its commitments under the Sino-British Joint Declaration and the Basic Law, which enshrine rights, freedoms and a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong." Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: US President Joe Biden vows unwavering support to Ukraine × Urging China to uphold the Law of the Seas, the leaders in the communique said there is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea. It opposed China’s militarization activities in the region. Apart from China, the leaders also condemned, in the strongest terms, the war of aggression by Russia against Ukraine pointing that it constitutes a "serious violation of international law, including the UN Charter." 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. ×

'Gross interference': China summons Japanese envoy over G7 communique

After the United States gave a green signal to its allies on the supply of F-16 Fighter jets to Ukraine, Russia's ambassadors to United States Anatoly Antonov has said that this transfer would raise questions of NATO involvement Ukraine-Russia conflict.

China's mission in UK responds to PM Sunak's and Japan's slanderous remarks in G7

<p>The Quad group leaders – Australia, India, Japan and the United States – took a thinly veiled swipe at China's behaviour at their meeting in Hiroshima on Saturday, on the sidelines of the G7 Summit.<br />
<br />
United States President Joe Biden and the three other leaders of the Quad group did not take China's name, however, the South Asian nation emerged as a clear target in the language of their joint statement which called for “peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific maritime domain”.<br />
<br />
“We strongly oppose destabilising or unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion,” the statement added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-host-quad-summit-in-2024-594495">India to host Quad summit in 2024, work for global welfare, peace, prosperity: PM Modi</a></p>

<p>The group's diplomatic language further referred to the economic tactics of China which the nation allegedly uses to gain leverage over poor nations. The Quad group also attacked China's military expansion in the Pacific.<br />
<br />
“We express serious concern at the militarisation of disputed features, the dangerous use of coastguard and maritime militia vessels, and efforts to disrupt other countries’ offshore resource exploitation activities,” the statement stated, as it clearly referred to the construction of bases by China on former offshore reefs and the harassment faced by non-Chinese ships in the disputed waters.</p>

<h2><strong>Quad reiterates support for improving&nbsp;infrastructure across Asia-Pacific</strong></h2>

<p>The meeting was held by Quad leaders while they had gathered in Hiroshima for the G7 Summit.<br />
<br />
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was scheduled to host Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Joe Biden in Sydney next week.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Why was Quad called off?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-was-quad-called-off-594560/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>However, the meeting was cancelled after Biden changed his schedule citing his need to return to Washington from Japan on Sunday for negotiating the US debt ceiling with Republican opponents.<br />
<br />
The group, in their statement, emphasised on the Quad’s support for improvements in infrastructure across the vast Asia-Pacific region while stating, in what appeared as another alleged dig at China, that they wished to assist such investments but would “not impose unsustainable debt burdens” on the recipients of assistance.<br />
<br />
The Quad leaders highlighted various projects and called the “urgent need to support quality undersea cable networks in the Indo-Pacific, which are key to global growth and prosperity”.<br />
<br />
The leaders announced a partnership which is aimed at drawing on the expertise of their countries in the specialist maritime cable sector.<br />
<br />
The leaders stated they were “deeply concerned” by repression in Myanmar, and further condemned “North Korea’s destabilising ballistic missile launches and pursuit of nuclear weapons in violation of multiple UN security council resolutions”.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi’s ‘not an era of war’ comment endorsed in joint statement&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Quad's statement mentioned ‘not an era of war’ comment which&nbsp;was made by Indian Prime Minister Modi when he had met&nbsp;Russia’s President Vladimir Putin in September 2022.</p>

<p>The joint statement stated, “In this context, today we express our deep concern over the war raging in Ukraine and mourn its terrible and tragic humanitarian consequences. We recognise its serious impacts on the global economic system including on food, fuel and energy security and critical supply chains. We will continue to render humanitarian assistance to Ukraine for its recovery. Conscious that ours must not be an era of war, we remain committed to dialogue and diplomacy."</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The Quad group leaders – Australia, India, Japan and the United States – took a thinly veiled swipe at China's behaviour at their meeting in Hiroshima on Saturday, on the sidelines of the G7 Summit.

The Quad group leaders – Australia, India, Japan and the United States – took a thinly veiled swipe at China's behaviour at their meeting in Hiroshima on Saturday, on the sidelines of the G7 Summit. United States President Joe Biden and the three other leaders of the Quad group did not take China's name, however, the South Asian nation emerged as a clear target in the language of their joint statement which called for “peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific maritime domain”. “We strongly oppose destabilising or unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion,” the statement added. ALSO READ | India to host Quad summit in 2024, work for global welfare, peace, prosperity: PM Modi The group's diplomatic language further referred to the economic tactics of China which the nation allegedly uses to gain leverage over poor nations. The Quad group also attacked China's military expansion in the Pacific. “We express serious concern at the militarisation of disputed features, the dangerous use of coastguard and maritime militia vessels, and efforts to disrupt other countries’ offshore resource exploitation activities,” the statement stated, as it clearly referred to the construction of bases by China on former offshore reefs and the harassment faced by non-Chinese ships in the disputed waters. Quad reiterates support for improving infrastructure across Asia-Pacific The meeting was held by Quad leaders while they had gathered in Hiroshima for the G7 Summit. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was scheduled to host Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Joe Biden in Sydney next week. WATCH | Why was Quad called off? However, the meeting was cancelled after Biden changed his schedule citing his need to return to Washington from Japan on Sunday for negotiating the US debt ceiling with Republican opponents. The group, in their statement, emphasised on the Quad’s support for improvements in infrastructure across the vast Asia-Pacific region while stating, in what appeared as another alleged dig at China, that they wished to assist such investments but would “not impose unsustainable debt burdens” on the recipients of assistance. The Quad leaders highlighted various projects and called the “urgent need to support quality undersea cable networks in the Indo-Pacific, which are key to global growth and prosperity”. The leaders announced a partnership which is aimed at drawing on the expertise of their countries in the specialist maritime cable sector. The leaders stated they were “deeply concerned” by repression in Myanmar, and further condemned “North Korea’s destabilising ballistic missile launches and pursuit of nuclear weapons in violation of multiple UN security council resolutions”. PM Modi’s ‘not an era of war’ comment endorsed in joint statement Quad's statement mentioned ‘not an era of war’ comment which was made by Indian Prime Minister Modi when he had met Russia’s President Vladimir Putin in September 2022. The joint statement stated, “In this context, today we express our deep concern over the war raging in Ukraine and mourn its terrible and tragic humanitarian consequences. We recognise its serious impacts on the global economic system including on food, fuel and energy security and critical supply chains. We will continue to render humanitarian assistance to Ukraine for its recovery. Conscious that ours must not be an era of war, we remain committed to dialogue and diplomacy." 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

Quad Meet: Australia, US, India and Japan take veiled swipe at China

<p>The Russian and Chinese sides did not take lightly the statements released at the G7 summit&nbsp;held in the Japanese city of Hiroshima. Moscow was the first to react, saying decisions at the G7 meet were aimed at the "double containment of Russia and China". Meanwhile, Beijing said G7's "approach has no international credibility whatsoever".</p>

<p>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, addressing a televised conference said the Western world was using Ukraine as a tool to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The task was set loudly and openly — to defeat Russia on the battlefield, but not to stop there, but to eliminate it as a geopolitical competitor," said Lavrov.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Look at the decisions that are being discussed and adopted today in Hiroshima at G7 summit of the Seven, and which are aimed at the double containment of Russia and China," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lavrov was referring to a statement released by the grouping under which it was agreed to tighten sanctions against Moscow. The G7 statement also urged China, Moscow's partner to press President Vladimir Putin to halt his military aggression and withdraw troops from Ukraine.</p>

<p>Kremlin could have also been irked after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was given a space at the platform, holding a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi who promised to make all efforts to end the war by using any means possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India, and I, personally would do whatever it takes to stop the war in Ukraine," PM Modi told Zelensky in their meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-zelenskiy-at-centre-of-last-day-of-g7-summit-594607"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine's Zelenskiy at centre of last day of G7 summit</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-zelenskiy-at-centre-of-last-day-of-g7-summit-594607/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>G7 manipulating China-related issues: Beijing</strong></h2>

<p>As for China, the country expressed 'strong dissatisfaction' with a communique issued by the grouping which targetted Beijing on issues such as the South China Sea, human rights and its alleged interference in foreign democracies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The G7 insisted on manipulating China-related issues, smearing and attacking China," said a spokesperson of the foreign ministry in Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China expresses its strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition and has lodged an official protest with Japan, the host country of the summit, as well as other relevant parties."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-summit-2023-live-pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talk-with-british-pm-rishi-sunak-594599"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;G7 summit 2023 LIVE | PM Modi holds bilateral talks with British PM Rishi Sunak</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, the bloc instructed China to not "conduct interference activities" whilst simultaneously expressing concerns about the human rights abuse of the Uyghur Muslims in the Xinjiang province as well as the treatment of other minorities in Tibet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The G7 trumpets that it wants to move towards a peaceful, stable and prosperous world. But in fact it is hindering world peace, undermining regional stability and inhibiting the development of other countries," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The Russian and Chinese sides did not take lightly the statements released at the G7 summit held in the Japanese city of Hiroshima. Moscow was the first to react, saying decisions at the G7 meet were aimed at the "double containment of Russia and China".

The Russian and Chinese sides did not take lightly the statements released at the G7 summit held in the Japanese city of Hiroshima. Moscow was the first to react, saying decisions at the G7 meet were aimed at the "double containment of Russia and China". Meanwhile, Beijing said G7's "approach has no international credibility whatsoever". Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, addressing a televised conference said the Western world was using Ukraine as a tool to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia. "The task was set loudly and openly — to defeat Russia on the battlefield, but not to stop there, but to eliminate it as a geopolitical competitor," said Lavrov. "Look at the decisions that are being discussed and adopted today in Hiroshima at G7 summit of the Seven, and which are aimed at the double containment of Russia and China," he added. Lavrov was referring to a statement released by the grouping under which it was agreed to tighten sanctions against Moscow. The G7 statement also urged China, Moscow's partner to press President Vladimir Putin to halt his military aggression and withdraw troops from Ukraine. Kremlin could have also been irked after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was given a space at the platform, holding a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi who promised to make all efforts to end the war by using any means possible. "India, and I, personally would do whatever it takes to stop the war in Ukraine," PM Modi told Zelensky in their meeting. WATCH | Ukraine's Zelenskiy at centre of last day of G7 summit × G7 manipulating China-related issues: Beijing As for China, the country expressed 'strong dissatisfaction' with a communique issued by the grouping which targetted Beijing on issues such as the South China Sea, human rights and its alleged interference in foreign democracies. "The G7 insisted on manipulating China-related issues, smearing and attacking China," said a spokesperson of the foreign ministry in Beijing. "China expresses its strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition and has lodged an official protest with Japan, the host country of the summit, as well as other relevant parties." ALSO READ | G7 summit 2023 LIVE | PM Modi holds bilateral talks with British PM Rishi Sunak Notably, the bloc instructed China to not "conduct interference activities" whilst simultaneously expressing concerns about the human rights abuse of the Uyghur Muslims in the Xinjiang province as well as the treatment of other minorities in Tibet. "The G7 trumpets that it wants to move towards a peaceful, stable and prosperous world. But in fact it is hindering world peace, undermining regional stability and inhibiting the development of other countries," the spokesperson added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia, China come down heavily on G7 nations after grouping targets them in communique

India's Union Minister of electronics & information technology Ashwini Vaishnaw has responded to WION's interview of Japan's digital minister and praised Japan's interest in joining India's UPI payment system. Ashwini Vaishnav spoke to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent, Siddhant Sibbal and shared the road map of how the UPI payment system could become more widely acceptable around the world.

Indian Minister for Electronics and IT Ashwini Vaishnaw in a conversation with WION

China has responded to the remarks made at the G7 Summit in Hiroshima very strongly. Late on Saturday, the G7 leaders released a joint statement that included information from China's foreign ministry. China has also filed an official complaint with Japan, the summit's host country, as well as with other relevant parties.

G7 Hiroshima Meet 2023: A joint statement from G7 leaders has drawn criticism from China

<p>On Saturday (May 20th) at the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima, the leaders of the United States, Japan, India, and Australia, collectively known as the Quad, held a meeting. The meeting was hosted by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and this was the third time that the leaders met for an in-person Quad summit.</p>

<p>In a joint statement released after the summit, the bloc leaders condemned "North Korea's destabilising ballistic missile launches and pursuit of nuclear weapons in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs)." They also expressed their concern over the situation in Myanmar and condemned "terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism".</p>

<p>As per Reuters, during the opening remarks at the meeting, the four leaders — Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan, and President Joe Biden of the United States reiterated their commitment to the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Biden said that "a great deal of the future of our world is going to be written here in the Indo-Pacific."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-host-quad-summit-in-2024-594495">India to host Quad summit in 2024, work for global welfare, peace, prosperity: PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>In their joint statement released after the meeting, the four leaders reaffirmed their "shared vision," seeking "a region where no country dominates and no country is dominated – one where all countries are free from coercion, and can exercise their agency to determine their futures. Our four countries are united by this shared vision."</p>

<p>The leaders said they support ASEAN centrality and unity, and that they are committed to working with Pacific island countries "to achieve shared aspirations and address shared challenges" and that they remain committed to strengthening cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.</p>

<p>"We welcome the work of IORA as the Indian Ocean region’s premier forum for addressing the region’s challenges. We recognise India’s leadership in finalising the IORA Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (IOIP) and express our support for its implementation. We thank Bangladesh for its term as IORA Chair and commit to working with Sri Lanka and India as they assume the roles of IORA Chair and Vice Chair respectively this year," it said.</p>

<p>They discussed various areas of collaboration, including climate change, health security, infrastructure development, digital connectivity, and cybersecurity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the statement announces the launch of multiple new initiatives in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Quad announced its 'Statement of Principles on Clean Energy Supply Chains in the Indo-Pacific', which will provide a basis for the bloc's engagement in the region on clean energy supply chain development.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-leaders-call-for-responsible-use-of-generative-artificial-intelligence-594471">G7 leaders call for ‘responsible’ use of generative Artificial Intelligence, set up ‘Hiroshima Process’</a></strong></p>

<p>As per a statement, "the principles are designed to promote diverse, secure, transparent and resilient clean energy supply chains and support a sustainable, and inclusive clean energy transition."</p>

<p>They also announced a Clean Energy Supply Chains initiative, which is designed to accelerate the Indo-Pacific’s clean energy transition.</p>

<p>Recognising the Quad nations' work in delivering millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses globally, the leaders announced that their Quad Vaccine Partnership will now evolve into a broader Quad Health Security Partnership. Through this, they "plan to implement a suite of activities to build the region’s capacity to detect and respond rapidly to outbreaks of diseases with epidemic and pandemic potential."</p>

<p>To boost infrastructure expertise across the Indo-Pacific they announced the 'Quad Infrastructure Fellowships Program'.</p>

<p>The leaders also highlighted the importance of upholding international law and addressing maritime challenges. They expressed support for the United Nations and its reform agenda and emphasised the need to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will also host the G20 summit later this year, informed the leaders of the other three Quad countries that India would host the next Quad summit in the coming year. He also emphasised the importance of the Quad as a platform for promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.</p>


On Saturday (May 20th) at the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima, the leaders of the United States, Japan, India, and Australia, collectively known as the Quad, held a meeting.

On Saturday (May 20th) at the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima, the leaders of the United States, Japan, India, and Australia, collectively known as the Quad, held a meeting. The meeting was hosted by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and this was the third time that the leaders met for an in-person Quad summit. In a joint statement released after the summit, the bloc leaders condemned "North Korea's destabilising ballistic missile launches and pursuit of nuclear weapons in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs)." They also expressed their concern over the situation in Myanmar and condemned "terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism". As per Reuters, during the opening remarks at the meeting, the four leaders — Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan, and President Joe Biden of the United States reiterated their commitment to the Indo-Pacific region. President Biden said that "a great deal of the future of our world is going to be written here in the Indo-Pacific." Also read | India to host Quad summit in 2024, work for global welfare, peace, prosperity: PM Modi In their joint statement released after the meeting, the four leaders reaffirmed their "shared vision," seeking "a region where no country dominates and no country is dominated – one where all countries are free from coercion, and can exercise their agency to determine their futures. Our four countries are united by this shared vision." The leaders said they support ASEAN centrality and unity, and that they are committed to working with Pacific island countries "to achieve shared aspirations and address shared challenges" and that they remain committed to strengthening cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. "We welcome the work of IORA as the Indian Ocean region’s premier forum for addressing the region’s challenges. We recognise India’s leadership in finalising the IORA Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (IOIP) and express our support for its implementation. We thank Bangladesh for its term as IORA Chair and commit to working with Sri Lanka and India as they assume the roles of IORA Chair and Vice Chair respectively this year," it said. They discussed various areas of collaboration, including climate change, health security, infrastructure development, digital connectivity, and cybersecurity. Additionally, the statement announces the launch of multiple new initiatives in the Indo-Pacific region. Quad announced its 'Statement of Principles on Clean Energy Supply Chains in the Indo-Pacific', which will provide a basis for the bloc's engagement in the region on clean energy supply chain development. Also read | G7 leaders call for ‘responsible’ use of generative Artificial Intelligence, set up ‘Hiroshima Process’ As per a statement, "the principles are designed to promote diverse, secure, transparent and resilient clean energy supply chains and support a sustainable, and inclusive clean energy transition." They also announced a Clean Energy Supply Chains initiative, which is designed to accelerate the Indo-Pacific’s clean energy transition. Recognising the Quad nations' work in delivering millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses globally, the leaders announced that their Quad Vaccine Partnership will now evolve into a broader Quad Health Security Partnership. Through this, they "plan to implement a suite of activities to build the region’s capacity to detect and respond rapidly to outbreaks of diseases with epidemic and pandemic potential." To boost infrastructure expertise across the Indo-Pacific they announced the 'Quad Infrastructure Fellowships Program'. The leaders also highlighted the importance of upholding international law and addressing maritime challenges. They expressed support for the United Nations and its reform agenda and emphasised the need to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will also host the G20 summit later this year, informed the leaders of the other three Quad countries that India would host the next Quad summit in the coming year. He also emphasised the importance of the Quad as a platform for promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Quad summit: Leaders condemn North Korea for its 'destabilising ballistic missile launches'

<p>World leaders, during the G7 Summit held in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20th) emphasised the urgent need to assess the impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI). They announced their plans to initiate discussions this year on the responsible use of this technology and establish a working group to address various issues related to it.</p>

<p>Governments worldwide are facing pressure to swiftly address the risks associated with generative AI. This week, Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, the organisation behind ChatGPT, testified before a US Senate panel and stressed the necessity of regulating AI. G7 leaders acknowledged the increasing prominence of generative AI across countries and sectors and emphasised the need to assess its opportunities and challenges.</p>

<p>"We recognise the need to immediately take stock of the opportunities and challenges of generative AI, which is increasingly prominent across countries and sectors," said the G7 in a statement.</p>

<p>The G7 statement outlined plans regarding the establishment of the Hiroshima AI process.</p>

<p>"We task relevant ministers to establish the Hiroshima AI process, through a G7 working group, in an inclusive manner... for discussions on generative AI by the end of this year."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-hiroshima-summit-ukraines-zelensky-meets-indias-pm-modi-594458">G7 Hiroshima summit: Ukraine's Zelensky meets India's PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>"These discussions could include topics such as governance, safeguard of intellectual property rights including copyrights, promotion of transparency, response to foreign information manipulation, including disinformation, and responsible utilisation of these technologies," said the statement.</p>

<p>The new working group, as per an AFP report, will collaborate with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI). This month, the European Parliament also took steps towards EU-wide regulation of AI systems, including ChatGPT, with the aim of adopting a final law after negotiations with member states.</p>

<p>Speaking before a US Senate Panel on Tuesday, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman testified that while generative AI has the potential to address significant challenges, such as climate change and cancer treatment, its increasing power necessitates regulatory intervention by governments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We think that regulatory intervention by governments will be critical to mitigate the risks of increasingly powerful models," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-hiroshima-communique-skips-use-of-term-global-south-594408">G7 Hiroshima communique skips use of term ‘Global South’ citing variations</a></strong></p>

<p>The G7 emphasised that the governance of new digital technologies, including AI and immersive metaverses, should align with shared democratic values.&nbsp;Among others, these values include fairness, respect for privacy and protection from online harassment, hate and abuse,&nbsp;it added.</p>

<p>Generative AI, which encompasses text generation tools like ChatGPT, AI-generated images, and music composed using AI, has in recent days sparked a range of reactions, from delight to alarm and legal disputes. Creators have accused these tools of utilising their materials without permission, leading to copyright concerns.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


World leaders, during the G7 Summit held in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20th) emphasised the urgent need to assess the impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI).

World leaders, during the G7 Summit held in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20th) emphasised the urgent need to assess the impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI). They announced their plans to initiate discussions this year on the responsible use of this technology and establish a working group to address various issues related to it. Governments worldwide are facing pressure to swiftly address the risks associated with generative AI. This week, Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, the organisation behind ChatGPT, testified before a US Senate panel and stressed the necessity of regulating AI. G7 leaders acknowledged the increasing prominence of generative AI across countries and sectors and emphasised the need to assess its opportunities and challenges. "We recognise the need to immediately take stock of the opportunities and challenges of generative AI, which is increasingly prominent across countries and sectors," said the G7 in a statement. The G7 statement outlined plans regarding the establishment of the Hiroshima AI process. "We task relevant ministers to establish the Hiroshima AI process, through a G7 working group, in an inclusive manner... for discussions on generative AI by the end of this year." Also read | G7 Hiroshima summit: Ukraine's Zelensky meets India's PM Modi "These discussions could include topics such as governance, safeguard of intellectual property rights including copyrights, promotion of transparency, response to foreign information manipulation, including disinformation, and responsible utilisation of these technologies," said the statement. The new working group, as per an AFP report, will collaborate with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI). This month, the European Parliament also took steps towards EU-wide regulation of AI systems, including ChatGPT, with the aim of adopting a final law after negotiations with member states. Speaking before a US Senate Panel on Tuesday, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman testified that while generative AI has the potential to address significant challenges, such as climate change and cancer treatment, its increasing power necessitates regulatory intervention by governments. "We think that regulatory intervention by governments will be critical to mitigate the risks of increasingly powerful models," he said. Also read | G7 Hiroshima communique skips use of term ‘Global South’ citing variations The G7 emphasised that the governance of new digital technologies, including AI and immersive metaverses, should align with shared democratic values. Among others, these values include fairness, respect for privacy and protection from online harassment, hate and abuse, it added. Generative AI, which encompasses text generation tools like ChatGPT, AI-generated images, and music composed using AI, has in recent days sparked a range of reactions, from delight to alarm and legal disputes. Creators have accused these tools of utilising their materials without permission, leading to copyright concerns. (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.

G7 leaders call for ‘responsible’ use of generative Artificial Intelligence, set up ‘Hiroshima Process’

<p>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;reached the Japanese city of Hiroshima on a French aircraft on Saturday to attend the G7 summit that is scheduled to run through Sunday. The Ukrainian president was escorted by a large convoy of vehicles as he arrived in Hiroshima.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Group of Seven (G7) consists of the world's major advanced economies, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>G7 position on Russia</strong></h2>

<p>G7 leaders on Friday pledged to impose more sanctions on Russia in a show of strength for&nbsp;Ukraine. The leaders vowed "to stand together against Russia's illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-71-earthquake-rocks-east-of-new-caledonia-in-pacific-ocean-594298">Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued</a></p>

<p>The G7 countries have taken a collective stance on Russia over its Ukraine invasion. In 2014, Russia's annexation of Crimea and its involvement in the conflict in Eastern Ukraine led to its suspension from the then-G8, which became the G7. The G7 countries condemned Russia's actions as a violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-depicted-as-hitler-on-posters-in-france-avignon-police-initiate-probe-594370">Macron depicted as Hitler on posters in France's Avignon, police initiate probe</a></p>

<p>Since then, the G7 has maintained a firm stance on Russia. The group has consistently expressed concerns over Russia's actions in areas such as Ukraine, its destabilising activities in other countries, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and human rights issues.</p>

<p>G7 nations in a joint statement said the countries are "imposing further sanctions and measures to increase the costs to Russia and those who are supporting its war effort" to "starve Russia's war machine."</p>

<p>"We are also building on the success of our efforts to ensure that Russia is no longer able to weaponize the availability of energy against us and against the world," the statement added.</p>

<p>UK PM Rishi Sunak tweeted that ensuring Ukraine wins is the most important thing the leaders can do for global peace and security. "We are banning all imports of Russian diamonds, copper, aluminium and nickel. Sanctions are having a clear impact in degrading Putin’s war effort. The G7 stands united with Ukraine," he tweeted.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky reached the Japanese city of Hiroshima on a French aircraft on Saturday to attend the G7 summit that is scheduled to run through Sunday.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky reached the Japanese city of Hiroshima on a French aircraft on Saturday to attend the G7 summit that is scheduled to run through Sunday. The Ukrainian president was escorted by a large convoy of vehicles as he arrived in Hiroshima. The Group of Seven (G7) consists of the world's major advanced economies, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. G7 position on Russia G7 leaders on Friday pledged to impose more sanctions on Russia in a show of strength for Ukraine. The leaders vowed "to stand together against Russia's illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine." Also Read | Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued The G7 countries have taken a collective stance on Russia over its Ukraine invasion. In 2014, Russia's annexation of Crimea and its involvement in the conflict in Eastern Ukraine led to its suspension from the then-G8, which became the G7. The G7 countries condemned Russia's actions as a violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Also Read | Macron depicted as Hitler on posters in France's Avignon, police initiate probe Since then, the G7 has maintained a firm stance on Russia. The group has consistently expressed concerns over Russia's actions in areas such as Ukraine, its destabilising activities in other countries, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and human rights issues. G7 nations in a joint statement said the countries are "imposing further sanctions and measures to increase the costs to Russia and those who are supporting its war effort" to "starve Russia's war machine." "We are also building on the success of our efforts to ensure that Russia is no longer able to weaponize the availability of energy against us and against the world," the statement added. UK PM Rishi Sunak tweeted that ensuring Ukraine wins is the most important thing the leaders can do for global peace and security. "We are banning all imports of Russian diamonds, copper, aluminium and nickel. Sanctions are having a clear impact in degrading Putin’s war effort. The G7 stands united with Ukraine," he tweeted. 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. ×

Ukraine’s Zelensky lands in Hiroshima on French aircraft to attend G7 summit

<p>The Japanese government refrained from using the phrase "Global South" in the communiqué that the G-7 leaders issued at the summit in Hiroshima. According to official sources cited by Japan Times, the term Global South, which refers to emerging and developing countries in the Southern Hemisphere, groups together countries with different circumstances. Therefore, the term is considered inappropriate for such a document.</p>

<p>The sources argued that it can oversimplify the diverse realities and experiences of countries within this category. Additionally, there are variations in development, wealth, and political stability among countries within the Global South itself.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-71-earthquake-rocks-east-of-new-caledonia-in-pacific-ocean-594298">Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued</a></p>

<p>In their joint statement, which was adopted at a meeting in April, the G7 foreign ministers also avoided using the phrase 'Global South'. The G7 FM meet rather used terms like "regional," "willing," and "like-minded" partners.&nbsp;According to a senior foreign ministry official quoted by the media outlet, several nations believe the word is derogatory, and G7 members are beginning to see that grouping such nations together is unwise.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida earlier said there is a requirement for "stronger involvement in the Global South." At press conferences as well, the Japanese PM regularly uses the phrase. "It's a powerful term. We'll use it domestically because it has an established image," a government source told the outlet.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-depicted-as-hitler-on-posters-in-france-avignon-police-initiate-probe-594370">Macron depicted as Hitler on posters in France's Avignon, police initiate probe</a></p>

<p>The G7 forum comprises of the leaders of seven major advanced economies, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with representatives from the European Union.</p>

<h2><strong>G7 document supports&nbsp;food security</strong></h2>

<p>"Stressing that we have exceeded our joint commitment of $14 billion to the global food security announced at the 2022 G7 Elmau Summit, we will continue to provide assistance in the food and nutrition related sectors to vulnerable countries and regions affected by the current food security crisis, in particular in Africa and the Middle East," the communique read.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Who was behind the 2022 clashes in Leicester?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-was-behind-the-2022-clashes-in-leicester-594279/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>A senior official from the foreign ministry told Japan Times that the global food crisis is a significant problem and that the G7's collaborative preparation of the paper is "also intended as an effort to strengthen ties with the Global South."</p>

<h2><strong>What is Global South?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The term "Global South" emerged as a response to the "North-South divide" and as a way to highlight the disparities and power imbalances in the global order. It recognises the challenges faced by these countries. It includes issues such as poverty, inequality, limited access to resources, political instability, and historical legacies of colonialism and imperialism. The Global South is often associated with issues such as development, poverty eradication, social justice, and the pursuit of a more equitable global order.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Japanese government refrained from using the phrase "Global South" in the communiqué that the G-7 leaders issued at the summit in Hiroshima. According to official sources cited by Japan Times, the term Global South, which refers to emerging and developing countries in the Southern Hemisphere, groups together countries with different circumstances.

The Japanese government refrained from using the phrase "Global South" in the communiqué that the G-7 leaders issued at the summit in Hiroshima. According to official sources cited by Japan Times, the term Global South, which refers to emerging and developing countries in the Southern Hemisphere, groups together countries with different circumstances. Therefore, the term is considered inappropriate for such a document. The sources argued that it can oversimplify the diverse realities and experiences of countries within this category. Additionally, there are variations in development, wealth, and political stability among countries within the Global South itself. Also Read | Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued In their joint statement, which was adopted at a meeting in April, the G7 foreign ministers also avoided using the phrase 'Global South'. The G7 FM meet rather used terms like "regional," "willing," and "like-minded" partners. According to a senior foreign ministry official quoted by the media outlet, several nations believe the word is derogatory, and G7 members are beginning to see that grouping such nations together is unwise. Meanwhile, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida earlier said there is a requirement for "stronger involvement in the Global South." At press conferences as well, the Japanese PM regularly uses the phrase. "It's a powerful term. We'll use it domestically because it has an established image," a government source told the outlet. Also Read | Macron depicted as Hitler on posters in France's Avignon, police initiate probe The G7 forum comprises of the leaders of seven major advanced economies, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with representatives from the European Union. G7 document supports food security "Stressing that we have exceeded our joint commitment of $14 billion to the global food security announced at the 2022 G7 Elmau Summit, we will continue to provide assistance in the food and nutrition related sectors to vulnerable countries and regions affected by the current food security crisis, in particular in Africa and the Middle East," the communique read. Watch | Who was behind the 2022 clashes in Leicester? × A senior official from the foreign ministry told Japan Times that the global food crisis is a significant problem and that the G7's collaborative preparation of the paper is "also intended as an effort to strengthen ties with the Global South." What is Global South? The term "Global South" emerged as a response to the "North-South divide" and as a way to highlight the disparities and power imbalances in the global order. It recognises the challenges faced by these countries. It includes issues such as poverty, inequality, limited access to resources, political instability, and historical legacies of colonialism and imperialism. The Global South is often associated with issues such as development, poverty eradication, social justice, and the pursuit of a more equitable global order. 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. ×

G7 Hiroshima communique skips use of term ‘Global South’ citing variations

With the G7 summit underway in Hiroshima, Japan, the world leaders are planning to impose new sanctions on Russia. In a new round of sanctions, the United Kingdom (UK) has announced a ban on Russian diamonds and imports of metals from Russia including copper, aluminum, and nickel in support of Ukraine.

Hiroshima G7 summit: PM Kishida holds bilateral meetings with G7 leaders | World News | WION

Japan and India are trying to promote digital cooperation, says Kono Taro, Japan's Digital Minister while speaking to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibbal. He also added that Japan is now seriously thinking about joining Indian UPI payment system.

Japan to join India's UPI payment system, says Kono Taro, Japan's Digital Minister

40 engagements are lined up & Narendra Modi will hold meetings with over two dozen leaders. The Indian Prime Minister will arrive in Japan later today. During the summit, he will speak at G7 sessions with partner countries, on subjects such as peace, stability & prosperity of a sustainable planet; food, fertiliser & energy security; health; gender equality; climate change & environment; resilient infrastructure; and development cooperation.

Indian PM to attend G7 summit & co-chair summit of the Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation

<p>In an interview to Nikkei Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India wants "normal and neighbourly relations" with Pakistan but it is incumbent on Islamabad to create a conducive environment free from terrorism and to take necessary steps. PM Modi further added that “the onus is on Pakistan to take necessary steps in this regard”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi’s interview to&nbsp;Nikkei Asia comes ahead of the G7 Summit in Japan and at a point when the world is raging with several international issues.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India’s concern over Pakistan’s support to terror</strong></h2>

<p>In his interview, PM Modi stated that "it is incumbent upon them (Pakistan) to create a conducive environment free from terrorism and hostilities”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India, on multiple occasions, has raised its concern over Pakistan’s support to various terror groups and has repeatedly asserted that terror and peace talks can’t go hand-in-hand.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India-China bilateral ties</strong></h2>

<p>During his interview, PM Modi also clarified India’s stance on China and answered queries related to India-China ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-pm-modi-president-zelenskyy-to-meet-in-hiroshima-594003">EXCLUSIVE: Modi, Zelensky to meet in Hiroshima, have first in-person interaction since Russian invasion</a></strong></p>

<p>While PM Modi stressed that ‘normalizing’ ties is for the greater good of the whole world, he also added that "peace and tranquillity in the border areas are essential for normal bilateral ties with China. The future development of the India-China relationship can only be based on mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests”.</p>

<h2><strong>India to play bigger role on international stage</strong></h2>

<p>During the interview, when asked if India could play the role of a mediator in the Russia-Ukraine war, PM Modi responded by saying that his country's position on the Ukraine conflict "is clear and unwavering". He further added that "cooperation and collaboration should define our times, not conflict".</p>

<h2><strong>India at the G7 Summit</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi reached Hiroshima on Friday, May 19 to attend the G7 Summit. India, which has been participating in the G7 since 2003 has been invited as a guest country to&nbsp;the summit. PM Modi vowed to "amplify the voices and concerns of the Global South" nations at the G7 summit.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Hiroshima G7 summit: Modi-Zelensky expected to discuss situation in Ukraine</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hiroshima-g7-summit-modi-zelensky-expected-to-discuss-situation-in-ukraine-594138/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his interview, PM Modi added that he was looking forward to discussing global changes and challenges in areas such as energy, digital technology and supply chains.</p>

<p>He further added that India's experience would "resonate strongly at the meeting" and that he would “emphasise India's role as a reliable partner in addressing these challenges.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In an interview to Nikkei Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India wants "normal and neighbourly relations" with Pakistan but it is incumbent on Islamabad to create a conducive environment free from terrorism and to take necessary steps.

In an interview to Nikkei Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India wants "normal and neighbourly relations" with Pakistan but it is incumbent on Islamabad to create a conducive environment free from terrorism and to take necessary steps. PM Modi further added that “the onus is on Pakistan to take necessary steps in this regard”. PM Modi’s interview to Nikkei Asia comes ahead of the G7 Summit in Japan and at a point when the world is raging with several international issues. India’s concern over Pakistan’s support to terror In his interview, PM Modi stated that "it is incumbent upon them (Pakistan) to create a conducive environment free from terrorism and hostilities”. India, on multiple occasions, has raised its concern over Pakistan’s support to various terror groups and has repeatedly asserted that terror and peace talks can’t go hand-in-hand. India-China bilateral ties During his interview, PM Modi also clarified India’s stance on China and answered queries related to India-China ties. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: Modi, Zelensky to meet in Hiroshima, have first in-person interaction since Russian invasion While PM Modi stressed that ‘normalizing’ ties is for the greater good of the whole world, he also added that "peace and tranquillity in the border areas are essential for normal bilateral ties with China. The future development of the India-China relationship can only be based on mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests”. India to play bigger role on international stage During the interview, when asked if India could play the role of a mediator in the Russia-Ukraine war, PM Modi responded by saying that his country's position on the Ukraine conflict "is clear and unwavering". He further added that "cooperation and collaboration should define our times, not conflict". India at the G7 Summit PM Modi reached Hiroshima on Friday, May 19 to attend the G7 Summit. India, which has been participating in the G7 since 2003 has been invited as a guest country to the summit. PM Modi vowed to "amplify the voices and concerns of the Global South" nations at the G7 summit. WATCH | Hiroshima G7 summit: Modi-Zelensky expected to discuss situation in Ukraine × In his interview, PM Modi added that he was looking forward to discussing global changes and challenges in areas such as energy, digital technology and supply chains. He further added that India's experience would "resonate strongly at the meeting" and that he would “emphasise India's role as a reliable partner in addressing these challenges.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

PM Modi puts onus for good ties on Pakistan, says ‘terror and talks can’t go together’

japan

Japan, News on Japan, stories on Japan, articles on Japan, Japan stories at Wion, Japan news, Japan latest news