<p>A missing Japanese army helicopter carrying 10 crew members&nbsp;is likely to have crashed into the water off a southern island after debris&nbsp;resembling aircraft pieces were seen in the area, reported Los Angeles Times.</p>

<p>The UH-60JA Black Hawk helicopter vanished from radar on Thursday afternoon while on a reconnaissance mission north of Miyako island, according to Yasunori Morishita, the director of Japan's army's Ground Self Defence Force.<br />
<br />
Morishita said during a press conference that debris believed to be aircraft pieces was discovered in the area, about 1,120 kilometres southwest of Tokyo, and added that rescue efforts continued for the pilots, mechanics and other members.<br />
<br />
In response to China's increasingly assertive military operations in the region, particularly Taiwan, the Japanese government is aggressively boosting its defence capability in southwestern Japan.</p>

<p>According to Kyodo News, Japanese coast guard ships discovered evidence of oil and debris that could be linked to the missing helicopter, but officials have yet to corroborate the report.</p>

<p>Morishita stated that the helicopter vanished from radar earlier than previously supposed.</p>

<p>According to NHK public television, the helicopter vanished from radar about an hour after departing from a base on Miyako island and about half an hour before its anticipated return.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that the Defence Ministry was investigating the incident.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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A missing Japanese army helicopter carrying 10 crew members is likely to have crashed into the water off a southern island after debris resembling aircraft pieces were seen in the area, reported Los Angeles Times.

A missing Japanese army helicopter carrying 10 crew members is likely to have crashed into the water off a southern island after debris resembling aircraft pieces were seen in the area, reported Los Angeles Times. The UH-60JA Black Hawk helicopter vanished from radar on Thursday afternoon while on a reconnaissance mission north of Miyako island, according to Yasunori Morishita, the director of Japan's army's Ground Self Defence Force. Morishita said during a press conference that debris believed to be aircraft pieces was discovered in the area, about 1,120 kilometres southwest of Tokyo, and added that rescue efforts continued for the pilots, mechanics and other members. In response to China's increasingly assertive military operations in the region, particularly Taiwan, the Japanese government is aggressively boosting its defence capability in southwestern Japan. According to Kyodo News, Japanese coast guard ships discovered evidence of oil and debris that could be linked to the missing helicopter, but officials have yet to corroborate the report. Morishita stated that the helicopter vanished from radar earlier than previously supposed. According to NHK public television, the helicopter vanished from radar about an hour after departing from a base on Miyako island and about half an hour before its anticipated return. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that the Defence Ministry was investigating the incident. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japanese army chopper carrying 10 crew members vanishes from radar near Okinawa

<p>A government survey indicates that the social withdrawal problem known as hikikomori is growing rapidly in Japan. Nearly 1.5 million people of working age are social recluses, according to the poll, with the Covid-19 pandemic being blamed for about 20 per cent&nbsp;of these cases.</p>

<p>In a poll conducted by the cabinet office in November of last year, which included 30,000 people in Japan between the ages of 10 and 69, it was found that two per cent&nbsp;of those in the 15–62 age range were hikikomori. as reported by Moneycontrol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some local authorities have responded to the increase in the number of recluses by taking action. From June, the Tokyo ward of Edogawa will host social gatherings in the metaverse where hikikomori can connect with others through their avatars. According to a 2021 study, the ward is home to more over 9,000 individuals who identify as hikikomori, including students who have stopped attending class.</p>

<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;hikikomori?</strong></h2>

<p>The social withdrawal&nbsp;condition known as hikikomori is becoming more common in Japan. The term describes people, mostly young adults, who isolate themselves from others and stay at home for extended periods of time—sometimes years. Hikikomori is regarded to be a reaction to the pressures of contemporary society, such as high academic expectations, fierce rivalry, and social isolation. It is connected to emotions of anxiety, sadness, and social phobia.</p>

<p>Hikikomori has a tremendous effect on both the affected people and society as a whole. Hikikomori can have terrible effects on individuals who suffer it. It can be challenging for people to reintegrate into society and can result in further mental health issues like sadness and anxiety.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: 1.5 million people in Japan living as social recluses</strong></p>

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<p>In the long run, hiikikomori can affect a person's social and economic prospects, making it more difficult for them to find employment or establish relationships.</p>

<p>Hikikomori, however, has greater&nbsp;ramifications for society. It&nbsp;is viewed in Japan as a sign of more significant social issues, such as high levels of stress and competition, a lack of social support systems, and a feeling of alienation from society at large.</p>

<p>Hikikomori has a wider-ranging effect. The issue has been connected to Japan's general social and political problems as well as the country's economic stagnation. Hikikomori can result in decreased productivity and make it more difficult for people to contribute to the larger economy. It may also make demographic issues like an ageing population and a declining birth rate worse.</p>

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A government survey indicates that the social withdrawal problem known as hikikomori is growing rapidly in Japan. Nearly 1.5 million people of working age are social recluses, according to the poll, with the Covid-19 pandemic being blamed for about 20 per cent of these cases.

A government survey indicates that the social withdrawal problem known as hikikomori is growing rapidly in Japan. Nearly 1.5 million people of working age are social recluses, according to the poll, with the Covid-19 pandemic being blamed for about 20 per cent of these cases. In a poll conducted by the cabinet office in November of last year, which included 30,000 people in Japan between the ages of 10 and 69, it was found that two per cent of those in the 15–62 age range were hikikomori. as reported by Moneycontrol. Some local authorities have responded to the increase in the number of recluses by taking action. From June, the Tokyo ward of Edogawa will host social gatherings in the metaverse where hikikomori can connect with others through their avatars. According to a 2021 study, the ward is home to more over 9,000 individuals who identify as hikikomori, including students who have stopped attending class. What is hikikomori? The social withdrawal condition known as hikikomori is becoming more common in Japan. The term describes people, mostly young adults, who isolate themselves from others and stay at home for extended periods of time—sometimes years. Hikikomori is regarded to be a reaction to the pressures of contemporary society, such as high academic expectations, fierce rivalry, and social isolation. It is connected to emotions of anxiety, sadness, and social phobia. Hikikomori has a tremendous effect on both the affected people and society as a whole. Hikikomori can have terrible effects on individuals who suffer it. It can be challenging for people to reintegrate into society and can result in further mental health issues like sadness and anxiety. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: 1.5 million people in Japan living as social recluses In the long run, hiikikomori can affect a person's social and economic prospects, making it more difficult for them to find employment or establish relationships. Hikikomori, however, has greater ramifications for society. It is viewed in Japan as a sign of more significant social issues, such as high levels of stress and competition, a lack of social support systems, and a feeling of alienation from society at large. Hikikomori has a wider-ranging effect. The issue has been connected to Japan's general social and political problems as well as the country's economic stagnation. Hikikomori can result in decreased productivity and make it more difficult for people to contribute to the larger economy. It may also make demographic issues like an ageing population and a declining birth rate worse. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

What is hikikomori? The trend keeping almost 1.5 mn Japanese in isolation

<p>Japan's Hay Fever, a seasonal allergic reaction caused by large quantities of pollen from trees during the spring months, is affecting a significant portion of the country's population. Amid the Hay Fever season, which goes from February to May every year, the prime minister of Japan Fumio Kishida has made a commitment to combat it. He referred to the pollen allergy as a health issue that needs immediate government action.</p>

<p>This week, Kishida told a parliamentary committee that hay fever has turned into a "social problem." He added that he would collaborate with ministers to come up with a solution as pollen levels in Tokyo reached their highest level in ten years. "We want to get results," according to local media outlets quoting Kishida.</p>

<p>The symptoms of this fever can range from mild to severe and may include sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, throat irritation, and fatigue. For people with severe allergies, the symptoms can be debilitating and impact daily activities.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chatgpt-can-propel-four-day-work-week-heres-what-nobel-prize-winning-economist-says-579621">ChatGPT can propel four-day work-week? Here's what Nobel Prize-winning economist says</a></p>

<p>To alleviate the symptoms of Japan Hay Fever, people can take over-the-counter medicines, nasal sprays, and eye drops. In addition, many people in Japan wear masks during the spring months to protect themselves from pollen exposure.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-us-south-korea-drills-driving-tensions-in-korean-peninsula-to-brink-of-nuclear-war-579606">North Korea says US-South Korea drills driving tensions in Korean Peninsula to 'brink of nuclear war'</a></p>

<p>It is a significant health issue in Japan during the spring months and affects millions of people each year.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Gravitas: Is India emerging as a space leader?</strong></p>

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<p>Despite relaxations in face masks people wear to fight Covid-19, so many individuals still choose to wear masks outside to save themselves from the pollen crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hay fever is quite common in Japan. It is attributed to a post-war reforestation initiative that saw trees being planted quickly to support the nation's building sector. Japanese forests were allowed to increase in density when the cost of imported building materials fell in the 1970s and 1980s.</p>

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Japan's Hay Fever, a seasonal allergic reaction caused by large quantities of pollen from trees during the spring months, is affecting a significant portion of the country's population.

Japan's Hay Fever, a seasonal allergic reaction caused by large quantities of pollen from trees during the spring months, is affecting a significant portion of the country's population. Amid the Hay Fever season, which goes from February to May every year, the prime minister of Japan Fumio Kishida has made a commitment to combat it. He referred to the pollen allergy as a health issue that needs immediate government action. This week, Kishida told a parliamentary committee that hay fever has turned into a "social problem." He added that he would collaborate with ministers to come up with a solution as pollen levels in Tokyo reached their highest level in ten years. "We want to get results," according to local media outlets quoting Kishida. The symptoms of this fever can range from mild to severe and may include sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, throat irritation, and fatigue. For people with severe allergies, the symptoms can be debilitating and impact daily activities. Also Read | ChatGPT can propel four-day work-week? Here's what Nobel Prize-winning economist says To alleviate the symptoms of Japan Hay Fever, people can take over-the-counter medicines, nasal sprays, and eye drops. In addition, many people in Japan wear masks during the spring months to protect themselves from pollen exposure. Also Read | North Korea says US-South Korea drills driving tensions in Korean Peninsula to 'brink of nuclear war' It is a significant health issue in Japan during the spring months and affects millions of people each year. Watch | Gravitas: Is India emerging as a space leader? × Despite relaxations in face masks people wear to fight Covid-19, so many individuals still choose to wear masks outside to save themselves from the pollen crisis. Hay fever is quite common in Japan. It is attributed to a post-war reforestation initiative that saw trees being planted quickly to support the nation's building sector. Japanese forests were allowed to increase in density when the cost of imported building materials fell in the 1970s and 1980s. 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.

Spring 'in the air': Japanese PM Kishida calls hay fever a social problem

In a bid to embrace a more proactive defence strategy to address the growing regional threats, Japan will begin offering aid to militaries of like-minded countries. Tokyo, on Wednesday, announced that it would provide financial support to help nations strengthen their defences.

Japan introduces new aid scheme; Tokyo selects four countries for new programme

Japan's services sector activity grew at the fastest rate in over nine years in March that indicates the country's post-Covid economic recovery is gaining momentum and according to a private sector in Japan, purchasing managers index roles to 55.

Japan's services growth pace fastest in 9-years | WION Business News

<p>Japan announced on Wednesday (April 5) that it would provide financial support&nbsp;to help nations strengthen their defences, marking the country's first radical departure from the regulations preventing the use of foreign aid for military objectives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno, the Overseas Security Assistance (OSA) programme of Japan will be run independently from the Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) programme, which has been funding roads, dams, and other types of civilian infrastructure for decades, as per Reuters.</p>

<p>"By enhancing their security and deterrence capabilities, OSA aims to deepen our security cooperation with the countries, to create a desirable security environment for Japan," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.</p>

<p>As per three principles that regulate arms exports, no aid&nbsp;under the new arrangement would be used to purchase deadly weapons that recipients might use&nbsp;in disputes with other nations, the foreign ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As put forth by the ministry, specific projects would likely include radio equipment for maritime surveillance and satellite communication, and work is already under progress to finish the first assistance programme this fiscal year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Philippines, Malaysia, Bangladesh, or Fiji are likely to be the initial beneficiaries. In order to increase the maritime security of those nations, the foreign ministry launched a bid on Wednesday to begin an OSA feasibility study there.</p>

<p>The Yomiuri newspaper claimed on Monday that Japan is considering providing the Philippines radars to help it monitor Chinese operations in the disputed South China Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the foreign ministry, since the help would be offered as grants, only poor nations will, in theory, be able to receive it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following Japan's statement in December that it would double its defence spending over the next five years in an effort to stave off China's expanding military power, the decision to broaden the scope of international assistance to military-related projects was made.</p>

<p>The movement to loosen Japan's ban on exporting weapons is gaining pace in response to the revamping of its defence strategy. In keeping with previous recommendations made under the new policy, the ruling coalition is hoping to begin working-level negotiations about easing the present restrictions on weaponry exports in late April, according to broadcaster TBS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an effort to compete with China, Japan has also been expanding its relationships with developing nations. As part of his efforts to build closer links with South and Southeast Asia, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced in March a $75 billion investment across the Indo-Pacific.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Japan announced on Wednesday (April 5) that it would provide financial support to help nations strengthen their defences, marking the country's first radical departure from the regulations preventing the use of foreign aid for military objectives.

Japan announced on Wednesday (April 5) that it would provide financial support to help nations strengthen their defences, marking the country's first radical departure from the regulations preventing the use of foreign aid for military objectives. According to Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno, the Overseas Security Assistance (OSA) programme of Japan will be run independently from the Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) programme, which has been funding roads, dams, and other types of civilian infrastructure for decades, as per Reuters. "By enhancing their security and deterrence capabilities, OSA aims to deepen our security cooperation with the countries, to create a desirable security environment for Japan," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. As per three principles that regulate arms exports, no aid under the new arrangement would be used to purchase deadly weapons that recipients might use in disputes with other nations, the foreign ministry said. As put forth by the ministry, specific projects would likely include radio equipment for maritime surveillance and satellite communication, and work is already under progress to finish the first assistance programme this fiscal year. The Philippines, Malaysia, Bangladesh, or Fiji are likely to be the initial beneficiaries. In order to increase the maritime security of those nations, the foreign ministry launched a bid on Wednesday to begin an OSA feasibility study there. The Yomiuri newspaper claimed on Monday that Japan is considering providing the Philippines radars to help it monitor Chinese operations in the disputed South China Sea. As per the foreign ministry, since the help would be offered as grants, only poor nations will, in theory, be able to receive it. Following Japan's statement in December that it would double its defence spending over the next five years in an effort to stave off China's expanding military power, the decision to broaden the scope of international assistance to military-related projects was made. The movement to loosen Japan's ban on exporting weapons is gaining pace in response to the revamping of its defence strategy. In keeping with previous recommendations made under the new policy, the ruling coalition is hoping to begin working-level negotiations about easing the present restrictions on weaponry exports in late April, according to broadcaster TBS. In an effort to compete with China, Japan has also been expanding its relationships with developing nations. As part of his efforts to build closer links with South and Southeast Asia, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced in March a $75 billion investment across the Indo-Pacific. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japan introduces new aid scheme to permit funding for foreign defence

Japan is offering a hand of help to its friendly allies. For the first time in history, Japan is breaking its aid rules. Japan plans to offer friendly nations financial assistance to help them bolster their defences. The move marks Tokyo's first departure from rules that forbid using international aid for military purposes.

What is Japan's new aid scheme that allows for overseas defence funding?

IN PICS | Images released show internal damage to Fukushima nuclear plant

In Japan, almost 1.5 million people of working age are living as social recluses. A fifth of these people blame the Wuhan virus pandemic. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: 1.5 million people in Japan living as social recluses

Japanese defence firms have unveiled new anti-drone laser weapon prototypes. The new weapons release comes amid increasing Indo-Pacific tensions. Is Japan preparing its new weapons against Chinese attacks? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Japan unveils new anti-drone laser weapons

<p>In a first, two Japanese firms recently unveiled their respective laser systems which will be used to shoot down incoming unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones, reported the United States-based online newspaper The Diplomat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes amid concerns about an increased presence of Chinese and Russian militaries near Japan which has seemingly prompted Tokyo to ramp up investment in such technology.<br />
<br />
The companies in question are the Japan-based Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) who displayed this technology at the DSEI Japan 2023 show, held in Chiba Prefecture.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ 10-kilowatt laser system</strong></p>

<p>A video by MHI shows the 10-kilowatt (kilowatt) fibre laser shooting down drones at a distance of at least 1.2 kilometres within two to three seconds. The officials from the company also plan to deliver the prototype to the Japanese Ministry of Defense (MoD) in December, as per The Diplomat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-japan-unveils-new-anti-drone-laser-weapons-578755">Gravitas: Japan unveils new anti-drone laser weapons</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking about the lasers’ features, MHI also said the Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) can be fitted onto ground vehicles for mobility and also utilised by the land bases of the Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces. “Any Self-Defense Force can use it from the ground as long as it is intended to shoot down flying objects,” said an MHI official, as quoted by the Washington-based newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked about the laser system’s capabilities to intercept incoming missiles an official said that while they have not conducted a “high level of research in-house”, it may be possible by increasing the output energy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-scrambled-jets-over-1000-times-amid-chinese-russian-air-activity-471349">Japan scrambled jets over 1,000 times amid Chinese, Russian air activity</a></strong></p>

<p>In 2021, the Japan-based firm also signed a $6 million contract with the MoD’s Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Agency (ATLA) to build a prototype of a vehicle-mounted high-power laser demonstration device.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Kawasaki Heavy Industries’ 100-kW and 2-kW laser system</strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, KHI has been developing a more powerful 100-kilowatt vehicle-mounted laser system, reported the Diplomat. According to KHI officials, their device in the two-kilowatt laser prototype can eliminate UAVs at the range of several 100 metres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, both their two-kilowatt and 100-kilowatt laser systems use the same one-micrometre band fibre laser. The system detects a drone with an infrared (IR) camera, tracks it down and then shoots it with the laser, said the report citing officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-uses-scrambled-jets-to-monitor-chinese-aircraft-carrier-operations-548726">Japan scrambled jet fighters to monitor Chinese aircraft carrier operations</a></strong><br />
<br />
According to the media report one of their prototypes has already been sent to the ATLA earlier this year and will begin tests and evaluation this month. In 2021, the KHI was allocated around $21 million from the MoD budget for demonstration costs of the vehicle-mounted laser system, reported The Diplomat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, KHI’s 100-kilowatt laser system would be mounted on a larger, trailer-type vehicle given the increased power output of the lasers which require a large power supply and cooling water circulation system.&nbsp;</p>

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In a first, two Japanese firms recently unveiled their respective laser systems which will be used to shoot down incoming unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones, reported the United States-based online newspaper The Diplomat.

In a first, two Japanese firms recently unveiled their respective laser systems which will be used to shoot down incoming unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones, reported the United States-based online newspaper The Diplomat. This comes amid concerns about an increased presence of Chinese and Russian militaries near Japan which has seemingly prompted Tokyo to ramp up investment in such technology. The companies in question are the Japan-based Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) who displayed this technology at the DSEI Japan 2023 show, held in Chiba Prefecture. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ 10-kilowatt laser system A video by MHI shows the 10-kilowatt (kilowatt) fibre laser shooting down drones at a distance of at least 1.2 kilometres within two to three seconds. The officials from the company also plan to deliver the prototype to the Japanese Ministry of Defense (MoD) in December, as per The Diplomat. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Japan unveils new anti-drone laser weapons Speaking about the lasers’ features, MHI also said the Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) can be fitted onto ground vehicles for mobility and also utilised by the land bases of the Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces. “Any Self-Defense Force can use it from the ground as long as it is intended to shoot down flying objects,” said an MHI official, as quoted by the Washington-based newspaper. When asked about the laser system’s capabilities to intercept incoming missiles an official said that while they have not conducted a “high level of research in-house”, it may be possible by increasing the output energy. ALSO READ | Japan scrambled jets over 1,000 times amid Chinese, Russian air activity In 2021, the Japan-based firm also signed a $6 million contract with the MoD’s Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Agency (ATLA) to build a prototype of a vehicle-mounted high-power laser demonstration device. Kawasaki Heavy Industries’ 100-kW and 2-kW laser system On the other hand, KHI has been developing a more powerful 100-kilowatt vehicle-mounted laser system, reported the Diplomat. According to KHI officials, their device in the two-kilowatt laser prototype can eliminate UAVs at the range of several 100 metres. Additionally, both their two-kilowatt and 100-kilowatt laser systems use the same one-micrometre band fibre laser. The system detects a drone with an infrared (IR) camera, tracks it down and then shoots it with the laser, said the report citing officials. ALSO READ | Japan scrambled jet fighters to monitor Chinese aircraft carrier operations According to the media report one of their prototypes has already been sent to the ATLA earlier this year and will begin tests and evaluation this month. In 2021, the KHI was allocated around $21 million from the MoD budget for demonstration costs of the vehicle-mounted laser system, reported The Diplomat. Notably, KHI’s 100-kilowatt laser system would be mounted on a larger, trailer-type vehicle given the increased power output of the lasers which require a large power supply and cooling water circulation system. 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: Defence firms unveil high energy laser wielding anti-drone weapons

<p>Nearly 1.5 million Japanese people of working age are keeping a solitary living, that is they are living as social loners. The revelations related to the reclusive sense of being of young Japanese people came in a government survey and showed increasingly thinning demographic realities of Japan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People who avoid social contact are called Hikikomori in Japan. Hikikomori account for 2 per cent of people aged 15-62, the survey found.</p>

<h2><strong>Relationship issues, career woes: Why Japanese are choosing social isolation?</strong></h2>

<p>The government survey said that large number of Hikikomori started stepping back from mainstream society due to relationship issues and after losing or leaving their jobs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A fifth of the surveyed people said that their self-isolation&nbsp;sense of being came from changes in lifestyle due to Covid pandemic.</p>

<p>The cabinet office surveyed 30,000 people between the ages of 10 and 69 across Japan last November. The poll found that just over a fifth of respondents aged 15-39 had been socially isolated from six months to less than a year. More than 20 per cent said they had experienced problems with interpersonal relationships, while just over 18 per cent cited the pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-naked-hermit-who-spent-around-30-years-on-tropical-island-alone-returns-for-final-farewell-493161">Japan’s ‘naked hermit’ who spent around 30 years on tropical island alone returns for final farewell</a></strong></p>

<p>Among people in the 40-64 age range, 44.5 per cent said their behaviour had been triggered by leaving their jobs, followed by 20.6 per cent who cited the pandemic.</p>

<p>Recognising the challenge of increasing social isolation among youngsters, some local authorities have stepped up.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Japan represents the epitome of honesty</strong></p>

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<p>Edogawa, a ward in Tokyo, said that it will hold metaverse socialising events from June to give hikikomori the opportunity to meet people via their avatars.</p>

<p>The ward is reportedly home to more than 9,000 people, including students who have stopped attending classes, some of whom describe themselves as hikikomori.</p>

<p>"We don’t think everything will be solved just because we offer a metaverse. It’ll probably be helpful for some people," the ward’s mayor, Takeshi Saito, told the Mainichi Shimbun. "We are targeting those who can’t leave their rooms and haven’t been interacting with other people. We want to help them take a step forward."</p>

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Nearly 1.5 million Japanese people of working age are keeping a solitary living, that is they are living as social loners. The revelations related to the reclusive sense of being of young Japanese people came in a government survey and showed increasingly thinning demographic realities of Japan.

Nearly 1.5 million Japanese people of working age are keeping a solitary living, that is they are living as social loners. The revelations related to the reclusive sense of being of young Japanese people came in a government survey and showed increasingly thinning demographic realities of Japan. People who avoid social contact are called Hikikomori in Japan. Hikikomori account for 2 per cent of people aged 15-62, the survey found. Relationship issues, career woes: Why Japanese are choosing social isolation? The government survey said that large number of Hikikomori started stepping back from mainstream society due to relationship issues and after losing or leaving their jobs. A fifth of the surveyed people said that their self-isolation sense of being came from changes in lifestyle due to Covid pandemic. The cabinet office surveyed 30,000 people between the ages of 10 and 69 across Japan last November. The poll found that just over a fifth of respondents aged 15-39 had been socially isolated from six months to less than a year. More than 20 per cent said they had experienced problems with interpersonal relationships, while just over 18 per cent cited the pandemic. ALSO READ | Japan’s ‘naked hermit’ who spent around 30 years on tropical island alone returns for final farewell Among people in the 40-64 age range, 44.5 per cent said their behaviour had been triggered by leaving their jobs, followed by 20.6 per cent who cited the pandemic. Recognising the challenge of increasing social isolation among youngsters, some local authorities have stepped up. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Japan represents the epitome of honesty × Edogawa, a ward in Tokyo, said that it will hold metaverse socialising events from June to give hikikomori the opportunity to meet people via their avatars. The ward is reportedly home to more than 9,000 people, including students who have stopped attending classes, some of whom describe themselves as hikikomori. "We don’t think everything will be solved just because we offer a metaverse. It’ll probably be helpful for some people," the ward’s mayor, Takeshi Saito, told the Mainichi Shimbun. "We are targeting those who can’t leave their rooms and haven’t been interacting with other people. We want to help them take a step forward." 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's loneliness crisis has nearly 1.5 million social loners

Two Japanese defense firms, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) have unveiled prototypes of their high-energy laser weapons to shoot down sophisticated enemy drones.

Japanese Defence firms introduce high-energy laser anti-drone weapons

In a continuing effort to be the country's leading investment destination, a high-level delegation led by Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister of Odisha, India will be visiting Japan from 4th April 2023 to promote investment opportunities in Odisha.

India: Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik to lead delegation to japan from April 4 to 11

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, who is on a two-day visit to China met with the Chinese counterpart Qin Gang in Beijing. With this Hayashi has become the Japan's first top diplomat to visit China in more than three years.

Japan Foreign Minister meets his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang | World News | WION

<p>Japan and China on Friday set up a military hotline in an effort to strengthen their capability of managing and controlling maritime and air incidents. Such incidents have become a regular affair between the two neighbours,&nbsp;mostly due to China's&nbsp;aggressive patrolling of the disputed waters in the East China Sea. The development just comes ahead of Japanese foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi's visit to Beijing this weekend.</p>

<p>Japan's foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi is scheduled to visit Beijing for two days from Saturday to discuss a range of issues, including the detention of an Astellas Pharma Inc employee.</p>

<p>Hayashi told reporters in Japan that he will meet the Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang during the visit for "an honest and frank discussion to create a constructive and stable relationship."</p>

<p>The visit comes after the Japanese government announced plans to restrict exports of 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, aligning its technology trade with a United States-led&nbsp;push to curb China’s ability to make advanced chips.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Japan worries China will resort to force to take control of Taiwan</strong></p>

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<p>China-Japan ties are also clouded by detention of&nbsp;a Japanese man employed by Astellas Pharma in China for unknown reasons.</p>

<p>The Japanese government has asked Chinese authorities to release the man.</p>

<p>"We plan to make our position clear on a range of issues, including these during my visit to China,"&nbsp;Hayashi said when asked whether he would raise the issue of the Astellas employee and the release of water into the ocean from the wrecked Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-china-operate-balloons-to-spy-on-several-countries-including-india-and-japan-559989">Did China operate 'balloons' to spy on several countries, including India and Japan?</a></strong></p>

<p>Hayashi’s visit to China follows leadership-level talks held on the sidelines of an international summit last November, the first between the two countries in almost three years.</p>

<p>At the time, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said he conveyed his concerns over China’s increasing maritime military presence but also said the two leaders agreed to reopen diplomatic channels of communications including a visit by Japan’s foreign minister to China in the near future.</p>

<p>(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>)<br />
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Japan and China on Friday set up a military hotline in an effort to strengthen their capability of managing and controlling maritime and air incidents. Such incidents have become a regular affair between the two neighbours, mostly due to China's aggressive patrolling of the disputed waters in the East China Sea.

Japan and China on Friday set up a military hotline in an effort to strengthen their capability of managing and controlling maritime and air incidents. Such incidents have become a regular affair between the two neighbours, mostly due to China's aggressive patrolling of the disputed waters in the East China Sea. The development just comes ahead of Japanese foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi's visit to Beijing this weekend. Japan's foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi is scheduled to visit Beijing for two days from Saturday to discuss a range of issues, including the detention of an Astellas Pharma Inc employee. Hayashi told reporters in Japan that he will meet the Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang during the visit for "an honest and frank discussion to create a constructive and stable relationship." The visit comes after the Japanese government announced plans to restrict exports of 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, aligning its technology trade with a United States-led push to curb China’s ability to make advanced chips. ALSO WATCH | Japan worries China will resort to force to take control of Taiwan × China-Japan ties are also clouded by detention of a Japanese man employed by Astellas Pharma in China for unknown reasons. The Japanese government has asked Chinese authorities to release the man. "We plan to make our position clear on a range of issues, including these during my visit to China," Hayashi said when asked whether he would raise the issue of the Astellas employee and the release of water into the ocean from the wrecked Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant. ALSO READ | Did China operate 'balloons' to spy on several countries, including India and Japan? Hayashi’s visit to China follows leadership-level talks held on the sidelines of an international summit last November, the first between the two countries in almost three years. At the time, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said he conveyed his concerns over China’s increasing maritime military presence but also said the two leaders agreed to reopen diplomatic channels of communications including a visit by Japan’s foreign minister to China in the near future. (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, China set up military hotline ahead of foreign minister Hayashi’s Beijing visit

<p>Japan said on Friday that it will restrict exports of 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, aligning its technology trade controls with a US push to curb China's ability to make advanced chips.</p>

<p>Japan, home to major global chip equipment makers such as Nikon Corp and Tokyo Electron Ltd, did not specify China as the target of the measures, saying equipment makers would need to seek export permission for all regions.</p>

<p>"We are fulfilling our responsibility as a technological nation to contribute to international peace and stability," Minister for Economy, Trade and Industry Yasutoshi Nishimura told a news conference.</p>

<p>Japan wants to stop advanced technology being used for military purposes and does not have one specific country in mind with the measures, he said.</p>

<p>But Japan's decision is seen as a major diplomatic win for US President Joe Biden's administration, which in October announced sweeping restrictions on China's access to US chipmaking tech to slow its technological and military advances.</p>

<p>Without the co-operation of industry heavyweights Japan and the Netherlands, the US measures would have been ineffective and its companies would face a competitive disadvantage.</p>

<p>Japan and the Netherlands in January agreed to join the U.S. in restricting equipment exports to China that could be used to manufacture sub-14 nanometre chips, but did not announce the pact to avoid provoking China, sources said earlier.</p>

<p>Japan has never publicly acknowledged any agreement.</p>

<p>A nanometre, or one-billionth of a metre, refers to a specific semiconductor industry technology, with fewer nanometres generally meaning the chip is more advanced.</p>

<p>In the Netherlands, the government said in a letter to parliament this month that it planned to restrict chipmaking equipment exports. Dutch major ASML Holding NV dominates the market for lithography systems used to create chips' minute circuitry.</p>

<p>China, which has accused the U.S. of "tech hegemony" because of its export restrictions, urged the Netherlands "not to follow export control measure by certain countries".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nvidia-tweaks-flagship-h100-chip-for-export-to-china-amid-us-bans-574621">Nvidia tweaks flagship H100 chip for export to China amid US bans</a></p>

<p><strong>Limited Impact?</strong></p>

<p>Japan said it would impose export controls on six categories of equipment used in chip manufacturing, including cleaning, deposition, lithography and etching.</p>

<p>The restrictions, effective from July, are likely to affect equipment manufactured by at least a dozen Japanese companies, such as Nikon, Tokyo Electron, Screen Holdings Co Ltd and Advantest Corp.</p>

<p>Takamoto Suzuki, head of economic research for Marubeni in China, said the measures would be a blow to Japanese equipment makers given the absence of a strong domestic chip market.</p>

<p>"It will undermine the market development of Japanese companies and certainly reduce their competitiveness from a regulatory aspect," he said.</p>

<p>When asked about the impact, minister Nishimura said, without elaborating, that he expected limited impact on domestic companies.</p>

<p>Some industry watchers point to potential sales elsewhere.</p>

<p>"If you take a long-term view, the effect will be diminished, with new semiconductor plants coming into operation in places like the United States and Japan," said Takahiro Shinada, a professor at Japan's Tohoku University.</p>

<p>Japan, which once dominated chip production but has seen its market share slip to about 10%, is still a major supplier of chipmaking machines and semiconductor materials. Tokyo Electron and Screen make around a fifth of the world's chipmaking tools, while Shin-Etsu Chemical Co Ltd&nbsp;and Sumco Corp produce most silicone wafers.</p>

<p>Shares of Nikon and Advantest rose 0.8% and 1.9% respectively after the news, broadly in line with the wider market's 1.1% rise. Tokyo Electron and Screen were little changed.</p>

<p>"We will continue to comply with any rules and work to maximize our results within them," a Nikon spokesperson said.</p>

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Japan said on Friday that it will restrict exports of 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, aligning its technology trade controls with a US push to curb China's ability to make advanced chips.

Japan said on Friday that it will restrict exports of 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, aligning its technology trade controls with a US push to curb China's ability to make advanced chips. Japan, home to major global chip equipment makers such as Nikon Corp and Tokyo Electron Ltd, did not specify China as the target of the measures, saying equipment makers would need to seek export permission for all regions. "We are fulfilling our responsibility as a technological nation to contribute to international peace and stability," Minister for Economy, Trade and Industry Yasutoshi Nishimura told a news conference. Japan wants to stop advanced technology being used for military purposes and does not have one specific country in mind with the measures, he said. But Japan's decision is seen as a major diplomatic win for US President Joe Biden's administration, which in October announced sweeping restrictions on China's access to US chipmaking tech to slow its technological and military advances. Without the co-operation of industry heavyweights Japan and the Netherlands, the US measures would have been ineffective and its companies would face a competitive disadvantage. Japan and the Netherlands in January agreed to join the U.S. in restricting equipment exports to China that could be used to manufacture sub-14 nanometre chips, but did not announce the pact to avoid provoking China, sources said earlier. Japan has never publicly acknowledged any agreement. A nanometre, or one-billionth of a metre, refers to a specific semiconductor industry technology, with fewer nanometres generally meaning the chip is more advanced. In the Netherlands, the government said in a letter to parliament this month that it planned to restrict chipmaking equipment exports. Dutch major ASML Holding NV dominates the market for lithography systems used to create chips' minute circuitry. China, which has accused the U.S. of "tech hegemony" because of its export restrictions, urged the Netherlands "not to follow export control measure by certain countries". ALSO READ | Nvidia tweaks flagship H100 chip for export to China amid US bans Limited Impact? Japan said it would impose export controls on six categories of equipment used in chip manufacturing, including cleaning, deposition, lithography and etching. The restrictions, effective from July, are likely to affect equipment manufactured by at least a dozen Japanese companies, such as Nikon, Tokyo Electron, Screen Holdings Co Ltd and Advantest Corp. Takamoto Suzuki, head of economic research for Marubeni in China, said the measures would be a blow to Japanese equipment makers given the absence of a strong domestic chip market. "It will undermine the market development of Japanese companies and certainly reduce their competitiveness from a regulatory aspect," he said. When asked about the impact, minister Nishimura said, without elaborating, that he expected limited impact on domestic companies. Some industry watchers point to potential sales elsewhere. "If you take a long-term view, the effect will be diminished, with new semiconductor plants coming into operation in places like the United States and Japan," said Takahiro Shinada, a professor at Japan's Tohoku University. Japan, which once dominated chip production but has seen its market share slip to about 10%, is still a major supplier of chipmaking machines and semiconductor materials. Tokyo Electron and Screen make around a fifth of the world's chipmaking tools, while Shin-Etsu Chemical Co Ltd and Sumco Corp produce most silicone wafers. Shares of Nikon and Advantest rose 0.8% and 1.9% respectively after the news, broadly in line with the wider market's 1.1% rise. Tokyo Electron and Screen were little changed. "We will continue to comply with any rules and work to maximize our results within them," a Nikon spokesperson said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan to restrict export of chipmaking equipment as it aligns with curbs by US

Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi announced that he would be going to Beijing for a two-day visit on the 1st of April. This will be the first such visit in over three years. He has said that he will be meeting his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang and the Chinese State Councillor Wang Yi.

Japan Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi to visit China, to meet Chinese FM Qin Gang | WION

<p>A Japanese civil servant was penalised for smoking more than 4,500 times at work over the course of 14 years. He faced a $14,500 fine, according to the Straits Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Osaka authorities each handed down the law to the 61-year-old civil officer and two of his coworkers in the finance department. In September 2022, an anonymous tip led the human resources department to discover of the group's secret tobacco stash. Following the incident, their manager called them and warned them of dire consequences if they were caught smoking again. Even so, the group didn't stop smoking.</p>

<p>In addition to his disciplinary pay cut, the 61-year-old director-level employee was also asked to repay a significant portion&nbsp;of his income, according to the Straits Times. He was found to have broken the Local Public Service Act's "duty of devotion."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/young-indias-heart-health-cardiologist-dispels-myths-around-cardiac-activity-570624">Young India's heart health: Cardiologist dispels myths around cardiac activity</a></p>

<p>The man smoked on the job for 355 hours and 19 minutes, according to the prefectural government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The smoking regulations in Osaka are among the harshest in the world. In 2008, it enacted a complete ban on smoking in all offices and public areas owned by the government. 2019 saw the end of the smoking ban for government workers.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/do-drugs-alcohol-make-us-more-creative-study-answers-the-age-old-question-576393">Do drugs, alcohol make us more creative? Study answers the age-old question</a></p>

<p>The penalty has gotten sympathetic responses. Some thought the fine was excessive, claiming that one can waste time by drinking tea, eating snacks, or simply chatting, but those activities shouldn't be punished, and smoking tobacco shouldn't be any different. Some claimed that having to leave the premises for a puff would have meant losing more time. Others felt the fine was excessive.</p>

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A Japanese civil servant was penalised for smoking more than 4,500 times at work over the course of 14 years. He faced a $14,500 fine, according to the Straits Times.

A Japanese civil servant was penalised for smoking more than 4,500 times at work over the course of 14 years. He faced a $14,500 fine, according to the Straits Times. The Osaka authorities each handed down the law to the 61-year-old civil officer and two of his coworkers in the finance department. In September 2022, an anonymous tip led the human resources department to discover of the group's secret tobacco stash. Following the incident, their manager called them and warned them of dire consequences if they were caught smoking again. Even so, the group didn't stop smoking. In addition to his disciplinary pay cut, the 61-year-old director-level employee was also asked to repay a significant portion of his income, according to the Straits Times. He was found to have broken the Local Public Service Act's "duty of devotion." ALSO READ | Young India's heart health: Cardiologist dispels myths around cardiac activity The man smoked on the job for 355 hours and 19 minutes, according to the prefectural government. The smoking regulations in Osaka are among the harshest in the world. In 2008, it enacted a complete ban on smoking in all offices and public areas owned by the government. 2019 saw the end of the smoking ban for government workers. ALSO READ | Do drugs, alcohol make us more creative? Study answers the age-old question The penalty has gotten sympathetic responses. Some thought the fine was excessive, claiming that one can waste time by drinking tea, eating snacks, or simply chatting, but those activities shouldn't be punished, and smoking tobacco shouldn't be any different. Some claimed that having to leave the premises for a puff would have meant losing more time. Others felt the fine was excessive. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japanese man fined over $14.5k for taking smoke breaks during work hours

<p>A Black student in Japan was separated from other students of his class at the graduation ceremony because he was not wearing his hair in accordance to the strict rules in place. The student had reportedly plaited his hair into cornrows to pay tribute to his Black heritage.</p>

<p>The student, who has not been named, was made to sit alone at the back of the hall during a graduation ceremony at his school in Himeji, about 570 km west of Tokyo. He was reportedly told not to stand and respond when his name was called out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 18-year-old is the son of an African-American father and Japanese mother. He told Japanese media that he had plaited his naturally curly hair to make them look neater for the graduation ceremony. The boy added that he&nbsp;learned about the cultural significance of cornrows online and from his father.</p>

<p>"I wasn’t able to create happy memories to mark the three years I spent at the school with my friends,"&nbsp;he told the Mainichi Shimbun. "I was frustrated because I felt like I was being told, ‘This is not your special day.’ The hairstyle represented my father’s roots and culture in the Black community."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tokyo-schools-drop-controversial-rules-governing-hairstyles-and-underwear-462234">Tokyo schools drop controversial rules governing hairstyles and underwear</a></strong></p>

<p>The school’s vice principal told the newspaper that the student had been segregated simply for failing to observe the rules on haircuts.</p>

<p>The boy reportedly left midway through the ceremony.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-legalises-paternity-leaves-but-japanese-fathers-afraid-to-loose-promotions-576357">Japan legalises Paternity leaves but Japanese fathers 'afraid' to loose promotions</a></strong></p>

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<p>The school’s regulations ban the "trendy" hairstyles at its premises, while codifying&nbsp;"clean and appropriate (hair styles) for a high school student". The&nbsp;rules, however, make no mention of braiding.</p>

<p>Schools in Japan often enforce hairstyle, which require students to keep their hair short around the ears and neckline, and forbids fringes of hair that are long enough to touch their eyebrows.&nbsp; A photograph of the desired hairstyle appears in the school’s student handbook, and teachers carry out checks every month,&nbsp;according to the Yomiuri Shimbun.</p>

<p>However, many&nbsp;Japanese schools in recent past have reviewed their rules on uniforms and hairstyles. This follows a 2017 lawsuit by a female student which claimed&nbsp;that her high school had told her to dye her naturally brown hair black or face expulsion.</p>

<p>In 2021, Japan's education ministry told&nbsp;local education authorities&nbsp;to regularly review their regulations and to adopt a "common sense"&nbsp;approach to "changing times".<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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A Black student in Japan was separated from other students of his class at the graduation ceremony because he was not wearing his hair in accordance to the strict rules in place.

A Black student in Japan was separated from other students of his class at the graduation ceremony because he was not wearing his hair in accordance to the strict rules in place. The student had reportedly plaited his hair into cornrows to pay tribute to his Black heritage. The student, who has not been named, was made to sit alone at the back of the hall during a graduation ceremony at his school in Himeji, about 570 km west of Tokyo. He was reportedly told not to stand and respond when his name was called out. The 18-year-old is the son of an African-American father and Japanese mother. He told Japanese media that he had plaited his naturally curly hair to make them look neater for the graduation ceremony. The boy added that he learned about the cultural significance of cornrows online and from his father. "I wasn’t able to create happy memories to mark the three years I spent at the school with my friends," he told the Mainichi Shimbun. "I was frustrated because I felt like I was being told, ‘This is not your special day.’ The hairstyle represented my father’s roots and culture in the Black community." ALSO READ | Tokyo schools drop controversial rules governing hairstyles and underwear The school’s vice principal told the newspaper that the student had been segregated simply for failing to observe the rules on haircuts. The boy reportedly left midway through the ceremony. ALSO WATCH | Japan legalises Paternity leaves but Japanese fathers 'afraid' to loose promotions × The school’s regulations ban the "trendy" hairstyles at its premises, while codifying "clean and appropriate (hair styles) for a high school student". The rules, however, make no mention of braiding. Schools in Japan often enforce hairstyle, which require students to keep their hair short around the ears and neckline, and forbids fringes of hair that are long enough to touch their eyebrows. A photograph of the desired hairstyle appears in the school’s student handbook, and teachers carry out checks every month, according to the Yomiuri Shimbun. However, many Japanese schools in recent past have reviewed their rules on uniforms and hairstyles. This follows a 2017 lawsuit by a female student which claimed that her high school had told her to dye her naturally brown hair black or face expulsion. In 2021, Japan's education ministry told local education authorities to regularly review their regulations and to adopt a "common sense" approach to "changing times". (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: Black student separated from class during graduation ceremony over hairstyle rules

<p>The Russian defence ministry, in a statement on Tuesday (March 28), said that their navy test-fired supersonic anti-ship missiles at a mock target in the Sea of Japan. The target, nearly 100 kilometres away, was hit with two Moskit cruise missiles. The missiles in question were the P-270 Moskit missile, which has the NATO reporting name or SS-N-22 Sunburn, reported Reuters.</p>

<p>“In the waters of the Sea of Japan, missile ships of the Pacific Fleet fired Moskit cruise missiles at a mock enemy sea target,” said the Russian defence ministry in a statement on the messaging app, Telegram. It added, “The target, located at a distance of about 100 kilometres, was successfully hit by a direct hit from two Moskit cruise missiles.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The P-270 Moskit is a Soviet-era medium-range supersonic missile which is capable of destroying a ship within a range of up to 120 km. The Russian Navy’s missile test comes 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>The test, on Tuesday, took place in Peter the Great Bay in the Sea of Japan, reported the Associated Press. Subsequently, Japan’s foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, in his daily press conference said that Tokyo will be more vigilant against Russia’s military operations. The Japanese foreign minister also confirmed that no damage had been reported after the missile launches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues, Russian forces are also becoming more active in the Far East, including Japan’s vicinities,” said Hayashi, as per Reuters. Meanwhile, a Japanese Foreign Ministry official in charge of Russia said that Peter the Great Bay is considered a Russian coast, though it faces the water between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“On the whole, Japan is concerned about Russia’s increasing military activities around the Japanese coasts and watching them with great interest,” said Matsuki, as per AP. He added that Tokyo does not plan to lodge a protest over the missile exercise.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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The Russian defence ministry, in a statement on Tuesday (March 28), said that their navy test-fired supersonic anti-ship missiles at a mock target in the Sea of Japan.

The Russian defence ministry, in a statement on Tuesday (March 28), said that their navy test-fired supersonic anti-ship missiles at a mock target in the Sea of Japan. The target, nearly 100 kilometres away, was hit with two Moskit cruise missiles. The missiles in question were the P-270 Moskit missile, which has the NATO reporting name or SS-N-22 Sunburn, reported Reuters. “In the waters of the Sea of Japan, missile ships of the Pacific Fleet fired Moskit cruise missiles at a mock enemy sea target,” said the Russian defence ministry in a statement on the messaging app, Telegram. It added, “The target, located at a distance of about 100 kilometres, was successfully hit by a direct hit from two Moskit cruise missiles.” The P-270 Moskit is a Soviet-era medium-range supersonic missile which is capable of destroying a ship within a range of up to 120 km. The Russian Navy’s missile test comes 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”. The test, on Tuesday, took place in Peter the Great Bay in the Sea of Japan, reported the Associated Press. Subsequently, Japan’s foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, in his daily press conference said that Tokyo will be more vigilant against Russia’s military operations. The Japanese foreign minister also confirmed that no damage had been reported after the missile launches. “As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues, Russian forces are also becoming more active in the Far East, including Japan’s vicinities,” said Hayashi, as per Reuters. Meanwhile, a Japanese Foreign Ministry official in charge of Russia said that Peter the Great Bay is considered a Russian coast, though it faces the water between the two countries. “On the whole, Japan is concerned about Russia’s increasing military activities around the Japanese coasts and watching them with great interest,” said Matsuki, as per AP. He added that Tokyo does not plan to lodge a protest over the missile exercise. (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.

Russian Navy successfully test-fires supersonic missiles at mock target in Sea of Japan

<p>Japan is infamous for its notoriously long working hours which, for years, has not only messed with the work-life balance for workaholic fathers but also reportedly driven the country’s birth rate to one of the lowest in the world. In a bid to change that, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida last week unveiled a number of policies like an increase in child support and&nbsp;encouraging more men to take paternity leave.</p>

<p>Tokyo also aims to raise the number of fathers taking paternity leave to 50 per cent by 2025 and 85 per cent by 2030. A report by CNN said that currently, that rate stands at 14 per cent. Notably, Japan has long struggled with a falling fertility rate and an ageing population, but some people say it might not work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In accordance with a bill that passed in the Japanese parliament two years ago, men are allowed to take four weeks of flexible paternity leave on up to 80 per cent of their salary. However, many men remain “afraid” of taking them, said Makoto Iwahashi, a member of POSSE, a labour union dedicated to younger workers, as per CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The plan is well-intentioned, Iwahashi told CNN, many Japanese men are scared of taking the leave because of the possible repercussions from their employers like negative effects on their promotion prospects or being reassigned to a different position with fewer responsibilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While it is illegal to discriminate against employees who take maternity and paternity leaves, workers on fixed-term contracts were particularly vulnerable, said the member of POSSE. Additionally, “a little tweak” in paternity leaves would not cause any significant change to the declining birth rate in the country, he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, Japan’s birth rate dipped below 800,000 for the first time since records began over a century ago. Additionally, the country’s fertility rate has also fallen to 1.3 which was far below the 2.1 required to maintain a stable population. In his address, last week, Kishida even warned that the next six to seven years “will be the last chance to reverse the declining birthrate trend”.<br />
<br />
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Japan is infamous for its notoriously long working hours which, for years, has not only messed with the work-life balance for workaholic fathers but also reportedly driven the country’s birth rate to one of the lowest in the world.

Japan is infamous for its notoriously long working hours which, for years, has not only messed with the work-life balance for workaholic fathers but also reportedly driven the country’s birth rate to one of the lowest in the world. In a bid to change that, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida last week unveiled a number of policies like an increase in child support and encouraging more men to take paternity leave. Tokyo also aims to raise the number of fathers taking paternity leave to 50 per cent by 2025 and 85 per cent by 2030. A report by CNN said that currently, that rate stands at 14 per cent. Notably, Japan has long struggled with a falling fertility rate and an ageing population, but some people say it might not work. In accordance with a bill that passed in the Japanese parliament two years ago, men are allowed to take four weeks of flexible paternity leave on up to 80 per cent of their salary. However, many men remain “afraid” of taking them, said Makoto Iwahashi, a member of POSSE, a labour union dedicated to younger workers, as per CNN. The plan is well-intentioned, Iwahashi told CNN, many Japanese men are scared of taking the leave because of the possible repercussions from their employers like negative effects on their promotion prospects or being reassigned to a different position with fewer responsibilities. While it is illegal to discriminate against employees who take maternity and paternity leaves, workers on fixed-term contracts were particularly vulnerable, said the member of POSSE. Additionally, “a little tweak” in paternity leaves would not cause any significant change to the declining birth rate in the country, he added. Last year, Japan’s birth rate dipped below 800,000 for the first time since records began over a century ago. Additionally, the country’s fertility rate has also fallen to 1.3 which was far below the 2.1 required to maintain a stable population. In his address, last week, Kishida even warned that the next six to seven years “will be the last chance to reverse the declining birthrate trend”. 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.

Why Japanese fathers are 'afraid' of taking paternity leave despite government encouragement

Japan's government is promoting measures to reverse the low birth rate and population crisis, including increasing child support and encouraging more men to take paternity leave. However, despite the goal of raising the percentage of male workers taking paternity leave, many new fathers are sceptical. Know why in this video.

Japan legalises Paternity leaves but Japanese fathers 'afraid' to loose promotions

<p>A Japanese person arrested in China earlier this month has been charged with espionage activities, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday.</p>

<p>During a news briefing, the spokesperson said that he was working at a Japanese firm, Astellas Pharma.</p>

<p>“This Japanese citizen is suspected of engaging in espionage activities, in violation of the criminal law and the anti-espionage law of the People's Republic of China,” Mao said, adding that China has notified the Japanese embassy in China.</p>

<p>She asked Japan to request their citizens not engage in such activities claiming that similar cases have been reported in recent years.</p>

<p>According to Chinese media, the company has not identified the employee, while a spokesperson said it was unclear why he was detained.</p>

<p>“I want to stress that companies and individuals need to respect and abide by the law. This is international customary practice,” Mao said.</p>

<p>“China will handle the case in accordance with law and will protect the rights of the person in accordance with the law.”</p>

<p>Responding to the arrest, Japanese government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that Tokyo’s embassy in Beijing was informed “this month that a Japanese man in his 50s was detained in Beijing for breaking China’s domestic laws”, reports Reuters news agency.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/australian-lending-firm-latitude-financial-says-data-of-14-million-customers-stolen-in-cyberattack-576192">Latitude Financial says data of 14 million customers stolen in cyberattack</a></p>

<p>No details on the man’s identity or his alleged crime or when he was arrested has been provided by the government.</p>

<p>“Ever since we learnt about this case, the Japanese government has been strongly urging the immediate release of this Japanese national,” Matsuno was quoted as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/silicon-valley-bank-sold-to-first-citizens-bank-576098">Silicon Valley Bank sold to First Citizens Bank</a></p>

<p>According to Japanese media, over a dozen Japanese nationals have been arrested in China since 2015.</p>

<p>Of which, eight have returned, while seven are facing trail or serving jail time in China. One person had died during his detention, Japan’s Mainichi newspaper reported in February.</p>

<p>Five of them have been found guilty by China of endangering national security, the paper said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Japanese person arrested in China earlier this month has been charged with espionage activities, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday.

A Japanese person arrested in China earlier this month has been charged with espionage activities, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday. During a news briefing, the spokesperson said that he was working at a Japanese firm, Astellas Pharma. “This Japanese citizen is suspected of engaging in espionage activities, in violation of the criminal law and the anti-espionage law of the People's Republic of China,” Mao said, adding that China has notified the Japanese embassy in China. She asked Japan to request their citizens not engage in such activities claiming that similar cases have been reported in recent years. According to Chinese media, the company has not identified the employee, while a spokesperson said it was unclear why he was detained. “I want to stress that companies and individuals need to respect and abide by the law. This is international customary practice,” Mao said. “China will handle the case in accordance with law and will protect the rights of the person in accordance with the law.” Responding to the arrest, Japanese government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that Tokyo’s embassy in Beijing was informed “this month that a Japanese man in his 50s was detained in Beijing for breaking China’s domestic laws”, reports Reuters news agency. Also read | Latitude Financial says data of 14 million customers stolen in cyberattack No details on the man’s identity or his alleged crime or when he was arrested has been provided by the government. “Ever since we learnt about this case, the Japanese government has been strongly urging the immediate release of this Japanese national,” Matsuno was quoted as saying. Also read | Silicon Valley Bank sold to First Citizens Bank According to Japanese media, over a dozen Japanese nationals have been arrested in China since 2015. Of which, eight have returned, while seven are facing trail or serving jail time in China. One person had died during his detention, Japan’s Mainichi newspaper reported in February. Five of them have been found guilty by China of endangering national security, the paper said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japanese man in 50s arrested in China for 'espionage' activities

<p>A 37-year-old man in Japan has been indicted by the authorities for killing his female acquaintance using Thallium, a potent posison just 1 gram of which is enough to end a life. Kazuki Miyamoto (37) is accused of killing Hinalo Hamano (21), a university student. It has been accused that Miyamoto killed Hamano by lacing her drink with the poison in October last year.</p>

<p>A female relative of Miyamoto is currently in coma after having Thallium been found in her system, according to local media.</p>

<p>Miyamoto was arrested on March 3 in Kyoto over death of Himano. Police are still trying to find out how did he get Thallium which is a controlled substance in Japan.</p>

<p>Thallium dissolves in water and gives out no smell or taste. This makes it hard to detect by ordinary means.</p>

<p>Miyamoto visited Hamano's flat in Kyoto. It is being belived that he administered the poison to her sometime between October 11 and 12.</p>

<p>According to Asahi Shimbun, Hamano died on October 15. Thallium was found in her vomit and urine.</p>

<p>"Miyamoto and Hamano sometimes wined and dined together, and they appeared happy in each other's company," said Asahi Shimbun.</p>

<p>Local media reported that Miyamoto and Hamano met each other through a part-time job.</p>

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A 37-year-old man in Japan has been indicted by the authorities for killing his female acquaintance using Thallium, a potent posison just 1 gram of which is enough to end a life.

A 37-year-old man in Japan has been indicted by the authorities for killing his female acquaintance using Thallium, a potent posison just 1 gram of which is enough to end a life. Kazuki Miyamoto (37) is accused of killing Hinalo Hamano (21), a university student. It has been accused that Miyamoto killed Hamano by lacing her drink with the poison in October last year. A female relative of Miyamoto is currently in coma after having Thallium been found in her system, according to local media. Miyamoto was arrested on March 3 in Kyoto over death of Himano. Police are still trying to find out how did he get Thallium which is a controlled substance in Japan. Thallium dissolves in water and gives out no smell or taste. This makes it hard to detect by ordinary means. Miyamoto visited Hamano's flat in Kyoto. It is being belived that he administered the poison to her sometime between October 11 and 12. According to Asahi Shimbun, Hamano died on October 15. Thallium was found in her vomit and urine. "Miyamoto and Hamano sometimes wined and dined together, and they appeared happy in each other's company," said Asahi Shimbun. Local media reported that Miyamoto and Hamano met each other through a part-time job. 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: Man in mid-30s indicted for Thallium poisoning of university student aged 21

<p>Japan will be focusing on the development of Matarbari Port in Bangladesh as part of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's new ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ plan. It will be part of Tokyo's larger infrastructure development efforts in the Bay of Bengal and Northeast India with a focus on "multilayer connectivity" as laid out in the plan.</p>

<p>The deep seaport, located in Cox's Bazar district, is being developed with the assistance of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and is expected to reduce pressure on Chittagong port while catering to the future needs of Bangladesh and India's Northeast.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-skip-earth-hour-2023-designates-wwf-a-foreign-agent-575636">Russia to skip Earth Hour 2023, designates WWF a foreign agent</a></p>

<p>In his speech during his visit to Delhi earlier this month, Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated, "Viewing Bangladesh and other areas to the south as a single economic zone, we will promote the Bay of Bengal-Northeast India industrial value chain concept in cooperation with India and Bangladesh to foster the growth of the entire region."</p>

<p>Japan plans to hold conferences involving the governments of the Northeastern Region of India and Bangladesh as well as the private sector to promote economic growth and attract Japanese companies' interest in the region. Tokyo's efforts also include the development of roads in Assam, Mizoram, and Tripura, which will connect to Japanese-assisted projects in Bangladesh.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/countdown-begins-for-isros-largest-lvm3-rocket-launch-575613">Countdown begins for ISRO's largest LVM3 rocket launch</a></p>

<p>The development of an industrial value chain connecting the Bay of Bengal and the North-Eastern region of India is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the region and beyond. As the leading country in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), Japan has been working closely with India to support the development of the landlocked Northeastern region through the Japan-India Act East Forum.</p>

<p>The act east forum was established in 2017 with the aim for the development of the Northeastern region of India and promoting connectivity within this region and between this region and Southeast Asia. The forum reflects the synergy between India’s Act East Policy and Japan’s vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.</p>

<p>Japan's PM Kishida during his speech that laid out his vision of a ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ said, "Northeast India, which is surrounded by land, still has unexploited economic potential."</p>

<p>WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-on-a-diplomatic-blitz-as-ukraine-war-rages-peace-plan-too-vague-to-make-a-difference-wion-575604">China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference? | WION</a></p>

<p>By promoting private investment and enhancing connectivity infrastructure, Japan aims to create a comprehensive concept for regional development and economic growth.</p>

<p>With Dhaka, Tokyo has been working to support the development of the Matarbari deep-water port and improve connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region through the Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt (BIG-B) initiative. Japan has launched a Joint Study Group on the possibility of an Economic Partnership Agreement with Bangladesh to further enhance economic cooperation.</p>

<p>This is even as Bangladesh is all set to graduate from being classified as a least developed country to a developing country.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Japan will be focusing on the development of Matarbari Port in Bangladesh as part of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's new ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ plan. It will be part of Tokyo's larger infrastructure development efforts in the Bay of Bengal and Northeast India with a focus on "multilayer connectivity" as laid out in the plan.

Japan will be focusing on the development of Matarbari Port in Bangladesh as part of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's new ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ plan. It will be part of Tokyo's larger infrastructure development efforts in the Bay of Bengal and Northeast India with a focus on "multilayer connectivity" as laid out in the plan. The deep seaport, located in Cox's Bazar district, is being developed with the assistance of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and is expected to reduce pressure on Chittagong port while catering to the future needs of Bangladesh and India's Northeast. Also Read | Russia to skip Earth Hour 2023, designates WWF a foreign agent In his speech during his visit to Delhi earlier this month, Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated, "Viewing Bangladesh and other areas to the south as a single economic zone, we will promote the Bay of Bengal-Northeast India industrial value chain concept in cooperation with India and Bangladesh to foster the growth of the entire region." Japan plans to hold conferences involving the governments of the Northeastern Region of India and Bangladesh as well as the private sector to promote economic growth and attract Japanese companies' interest in the region. Tokyo's efforts also include the development of roads in Assam, Mizoram, and Tripura, which will connect to Japanese-assisted projects in Bangladesh. Also Read | Countdown begins for ISRO's largest LVM3 rocket launch The development of an industrial value chain connecting the Bay of Bengal and the North-Eastern region of India is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the region and beyond. As the leading country in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), Japan has been working closely with India to support the development of the landlocked Northeastern region through the Japan-India Act East Forum. The act east forum was established in 2017 with the aim for the development of the Northeastern region of India and promoting connectivity within this region and between this region and Southeast Asia. The forum reflects the synergy between India’s Act East Policy and Japan’s vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. Japan's PM Kishida during his speech that laid out his vision of a ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ said, "Northeast India, which is surrounded by land, still has unexploited economic potential." WATCH | China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference? | WION By promoting private investment and enhancing connectivity infrastructure, Japan aims to create a comprehensive concept for regional development and economic growth. With Dhaka, Tokyo has been working to support the development of the Matarbari deep-water port and improve connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region through the Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt (BIG-B) initiative. Japan has launched a Joint Study Group on the possibility of an Economic Partnership Agreement with Bangladesh to further enhance economic cooperation. This is even as Bangladesh is all set to graduate from being classified as a least developed country to a developing country. (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's ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ plan focuses on Bangladesh’s Matarbari port for regional economic growth

Japan will be hosting a summit of G7 leaders in May. Will it be all about bashing Putin? Will Western allies use the G7 podium for condemning Russia only? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Will G7 become a platform for bashing Russia?

<p>Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who is in the midst of a two-day visit to India tried different Indian delicacies including ‘golgappe’, ‘lassi’ and ‘aam panna’ at the Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi with his Indian counterpart PM Narendra Modi on Monday (March 20). The video was shared by PM Modi on his social media accounts with the caption, “My friend PM @fumio_kishida enjoys Indian snacks including tasty Golgappas.”&nbsp;<br />
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<p>Subsequently, the leaders were also seen having ‘aam panna’ a cooling Indian summer drink and the famous Indian street food ‘golgappe’. &nbsp;The two leaders were later also seen having a conversation over lassi while the caterers appeared to explain the recipe of the famous Indian drink and even tried their hands at churning it, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My friend PM <a href="https://twitter.com/kishida230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kishida230</a> enjoyed Indian snacks including Golgappas. <a href="https://t.co/rXtQQdD7Ki">pic.twitter.com/rXtQQdD7Ki</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1637828369424211968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier today, Japan’s PM Kishida arrived in New Delhi for the annual India-Japan Summit. The two leaders prior to enjoying the Indian delicacies also visited the Bal Bodhi Tree at Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi. PM Modi also gifted a sapling of Bal Bodhi tree to his Japanese counterpart, said Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a tweet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two leaders also held extensive talks on wide-ranging issues at Hyderabad House in India’s capital New Delhi, earlier in the day. Addressing the media after the bilateral talks, Modi said it is the best opportunity to work together on priorities of both sides for global good in the context of India’s presidency of the G20 and Japan chairing the G7 grouping.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-accepts-japanese-pm-fumio-kishidas-invitation-to-g7-574038">Indian PM Modi accepts Japanese PM Fumio Kishida’s Invitation to G7</a></strong></p>

<p>During his visit, Kishida called India an “indispensable partner” of Japan and also unveiled “on Indian soil” his plan “for a free and open Indo-Pacific”. However, the details of what his vision of a free Indo-Pacific would entail are yet to be revealed. The Japanese PM also invited PM Modi to the G7 summit in May and said that he has agreed to participate in it.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who is in the midst of a two-day visit to India tried different Indian delicacies including ‘golgappe’, ‘lassi’ and ‘aam panna’ at the Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi with his Indian counterpart PM Narendra Modi on Monday (March 20).

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who is in the midst of a two-day visit to India tried different Indian delicacies including ‘golgappe’, ‘lassi’ and ‘aam panna’ at the Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi with his Indian counterpart PM Narendra Modi on Monday (March 20). The video was shared by PM Modi on his social media accounts with the caption, “My friend PM @fumio_kishida enjoys Indian snacks including tasty Golgappas.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) × Subsequently, the leaders were also seen having ‘aam panna’ a cooling Indian summer drink and the famous Indian street food ‘golgappe’. The two leaders were later also seen having a conversation over lassi while the caterers appeared to explain the recipe of the famous Indian drink and even tried their hands at churning it, as per media reports. My friend PM @kishida230 enjoyed Indian snacks including Golgappas. pic.twitter.com/rXtQQdD7Ki — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 20, 2023 × Earlier today, Japan’s PM Kishida arrived in New Delhi for the annual India-Japan Summit. The two leaders prior to enjoying the Indian delicacies also visited the Bal Bodhi Tree at Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi. PM Modi also gifted a sapling of Bal Bodhi tree to his Japanese counterpart, said Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a tweet. The two leaders also held extensive talks on wide-ranging issues at Hyderabad House in India’s capital New Delhi, earlier in the day. Addressing the media after the bilateral talks, Modi said it is the best opportunity to work together on priorities of both sides for global good in the context of India’s presidency of the G20 and Japan chairing the G7 grouping. ALSO WATCH | Indian PM Modi accepts Japanese PM Fumio Kishida’s Invitation to G7 During his visit, Kishida called India an “indispensable partner” of Japan and also unveiled “on Indian soil” his plan “for a free and open Indo-Pacific”. However, the details of what his vision of a free Indo-Pacific would entail are yet to be revealed. The Japanese PM also invited PM Modi to the G7 summit in May and said that he has agreed to participate in it. (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.

Watch | India: Japanese Prime Minister tries ‘golgappe’ with PM Modi in Delhi

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has formally invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the G7 Summit after both had a delegation-level talk at Delhi's Hyderabad House. PM Modi said that PM Kishida's visit will be helpful to maintain a momentum of mutual cooperation between India and Japan. He pointed out the importance of leading two significant summits, G20 and G7, by respective countries.

Indian PM Modi accepts Japanese PM Fumio Kishida’s Invitation To G7

<p>Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday reached Bucha, the region where Russian forces faced accusation of massacring Ukrainian civilians during their Kyiv-region suburb's weeks-long occupation last year.</p>

<p>Kishida expressed strong "indignation" during his visit to Bucha. "As I step foot in Bucha today, and witness all the brutality that took place here, I have a strong sentiment of indignation," he stated in translated remarks.</p>

<p>Later in the day,&nbsp;Kishida laid a wreath&nbsp;at the memorial for fallen Ukrainian soldiers in&nbsp;Kyiv city centre, accompanied by an honour guard.</p>

<p>Kishida arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday, the Japanese media reported after the foreign ministry announced his surprise visit to Ukraine.</p>

<p>Earlier today, public broadcaster NHK stated Kishida "could be seen getting off a train at a station in the centre of Kyiv", where he is likely to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ja">キーウ中心部にある駅では、日本時間の21日夜、岸田総理大臣が列車から駅のホームに降りる姿が確認できました。<br />
<br />
岸田総理大臣はウクライナ政府の関係者とみられる人や現地に駐在する松田大使などの出迎えを受け、笑顔で会話する様子もみられました。<a href="https://t.co/0ImIFQ04nZ">https://t.co/0ImIFQ04nZ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/nhk_video?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#nhk_video</a> <a href="https://t.co/NPhZWOAvOm">pic.twitter.com/NPhZWOAvOm</a></p>
— NHKニュース (@nhk_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/nhk_news/status/1638126506386890752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Representing Japan, which is among the democracies present in the Group of Seven, Kishida will voice his solidarity with Ukraine following Russia's invasion more than a year ago, said the foreign ministry in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-may-cease-to-exist-warns-pm-fumio-kishida-aide-as-birthrate-plummets-to-record-levels-569234">Japan may cease to exist, warns PM Fumio Kishida aide as birthrate plummets to record levels</a></p>

<p>The Japanese PM will convey "his respect for the courage and perseverance of the Ukrainian people standing up to defend their homeland," it stated.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the foreign ministry of Ukraine on Tuesday welcomed Kishida's arrival in Kyiv, hailing his "historic" visit as a key show of solidarity.</p>

<p>"This historic visit is a sign of solidarity and strong cooperation between (Ukraine and Japan). We are grateful to Japan for its strong support and contribution to our future victory," said First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzheppar on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ja">Ми раді вітати в <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%A3%D0%BA%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%97%D0%BD%D1%96?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Україні</a> Прем'єр-міністра <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%AF%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BD%D1%96%D1%97?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Японії</a> Кішіду Фуміо <a href="https://twitter.com/kishida230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kishida230</a>.<br />
Цей історичний візит є проявом солідарності та плідної співпраці між 🇺🇦 &amp; 🇯🇵.<br />
Ми вдячні Японії за потужну підтримку та внесок у нашу майбутню перемогу.<br />
ようこそ <a href="https://t.co/xaXFrySYcw">pic.twitter.com/xaXFrySYcw</a></p>
— Emine Dzheppar (@EmineDzheppar) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmineDzheppar/status/1638138172226904067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Japan is set to host the G7 summit in Hiroshima in May, and previously Kishida said that the summit must show its strong will to uphold rule of law and international order in response to the Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Kishida and Modi hail role of India-Japan ties in securing Indo-Pacific</strong></p>

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<p>NHK shared the footage of the Japanese PM holding talks with the officials as he stood next to a train. He reached Kyiv after boarding a train from Przemysl, a border town in Poland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kishida is also scheduled to hold talks with his Polish counterpart before flying back to Japan on Thursday, said the ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before departing for Poland en route to Ukraine, Kishida made an official visit to India where he held talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday reached Bucha, the region where Russian forces faced accusation of massacring Ukrainian civilians during their Kyiv-region suburb's weeks-long occupation last year.

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday reached Bucha, the region where Russian forces faced accusation of massacring Ukrainian civilians during their Kyiv-region suburb's weeks-long occupation last year. Kishida expressed strong "indignation" during his visit to Bucha. "As I step foot in Bucha today, and witness all the brutality that took place here, I have a strong sentiment of indignation," he stated in translated remarks. Later in the day, Kishida laid a wreath at the memorial for fallen Ukrainian soldiers in Kyiv city centre, accompanied by an honour guard. Kishida arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday, the Japanese media reported after the foreign ministry announced his surprise visit to Ukraine. Earlier today, public broadcaster NHK stated Kishida "could be seen getting off a train at a station in the centre of Kyiv", where he is likely to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. キーウ中心部にある駅では、日本時間の21日夜、岸田総理大臣が列車から駅のホームに降りる姿が確認できました。 岸田総理大臣はウクライナ政府の関係者とみられる人や現地に駐在する松田大使などの出迎えを受け、笑顔で会話する様子もみられました。https://t.co/0ImIFQ04nZ#nhk_video pic.twitter.com/NPhZWOAvOm — NHKニュース (@nhk_news) March 21, 2023 × Representing Japan, which is among the democracies present in the Group of Seven, Kishida will voice his solidarity with Ukraine following Russia's invasion more than a year ago, said the foreign ministry in a statement. ALSO READ | Japan may cease to exist, warns PM Fumio Kishida aide as birthrate plummets to record levels The Japanese PM will convey "his respect for the courage and perseverance of the Ukrainian people standing up to defend their homeland," it stated. Meanwhile, the foreign ministry of Ukraine on Tuesday welcomed Kishida's arrival in Kyiv, hailing his "historic" visit as a key show of solidarity. "This historic visit is a sign of solidarity and strong cooperation between (Ukraine and Japan). We are grateful to Japan for its strong support and contribution to our future victory," said First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzheppar on Twitter. Ми раді вітати в #Україні Прем'єр-міністра #Японії Кішіду Фуміо @kishida230. Цей історичний візит є проявом солідарності та плідної співпраці між 🇺🇦 & 🇯🇵. Ми вдячні Японії за потужну підтримку та внесок у нашу майбутню перемогу. ようこそ pic.twitter.com/xaXFrySYcw — Emine Dzheppar (@EmineDzheppar) March 21, 2023 × Japan is set to host the G7 summit in Hiroshima in May, and previously Kishida said that the summit must show its strong will to uphold rule of law and international order in response to the Russia-Ukraine war. WATCH | Kishida and Modi hail role of India-Japan ties in securing Indo-Pacific NHK shared the footage of the Japanese PM holding talks with the officials as he stood next to a train. He reached Kyiv after boarding a train from Przemysl, a border town in Poland. Kishida is also scheduled to hold talks with his Polish counterpart before flying back to Japan on Thursday, said the ministry. Before departing for Poland en route to Ukraine, Kishida made an official visit to India where he held talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. (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

Russia-Ukraine war | Japan PM Kishida visits Bucha in Ukraine

<p>Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi is in the midst of his first visit to the Solomon Islands where he discussed global security with the island nation’s leader Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare. During his five-day visit to the Southern Pacific, the foreign minister also said that Japan is “closely monitoring” the security pact signed between the Solomon Islands and China last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Japanese foreign ministry also said that the minister expressed Tokyo’s view on how the island country can “achieve long-term development while maintaining autonomy”. Sogavare said that peace and stability of the region are most important while explaining his country’s stance to Hayashi, reported Kyodo News.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after China and the Solomon Islands signed a security agreement in April last year which could potentially allow Beijing to deploy its military and dock vessels in the islands. The deal also marked the country breaking its diplomatic relations with Taiwan and switching to China in 2019. The move has since sparked concerns from the United States and Australia which have seen the move as Beijing’s way to extend its influence in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his visit, the Japanese foreign minister also said that Tokyo will promote transparent and inclusive cooperation with Pacific island countries to realize a “free and open Indo-Pacific” and is ready to provide assistance in maritime security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hayashi also handed a letter to the Solomon Island PM from his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida about the country’s plan to release one million tonnes of water from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant into the ocean.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to this Sogavare stated that he appreciated Japan’s explanation and expected the country continues to provide information in a “transparent manner”, as per the Japanese foreign ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS), a multi-nuclide removal system, removes various radioactive materials from contaminated water, as per the Japanese government. In the context of ALPS-treated water which is to be released by Tokyo, Hayashi firmly ensures that there will be no harm to the “environment and human health”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi is in the midst of his first visit to the Solomon Islands where he discussed global security with the island nation’s leader Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi is in the midst of his first visit to the Solomon Islands where he discussed global security with the island nation’s leader Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare. During his five-day visit to the Southern Pacific, the foreign minister also said that Japan is “closely monitoring” the security pact signed between the Solomon Islands and China last year. The Japanese foreign ministry also said that the minister expressed Tokyo’s view on how the island country can “achieve long-term development while maintaining autonomy”. Sogavare said that peace and stability of the region are most important while explaining his country’s stance to Hayashi, reported Kyodo News. This comes after China and the Solomon Islands signed a security agreement in April last year which could potentially allow Beijing to deploy its military and dock vessels in the islands. The deal also marked the country breaking its diplomatic relations with Taiwan and switching to China in 2019. The move has since sparked concerns from the United States and Australia which have seen the move as Beijing’s way to extend its influence in the Indo-Pacific region. During his visit, the Japanese foreign minister also said that Tokyo will promote transparent and inclusive cooperation with Pacific island countries to realize a “free and open Indo-Pacific” and is ready to provide assistance in maritime security. Hayashi also handed a letter to the Solomon Island PM from his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida about the country’s plan to release one million tonnes of water from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant into the ocean. In response to this Sogavare stated that he appreciated Japan’s explanation and expected the country continues to provide information in a “transparent manner”, as per the Japanese foreign ministry. The Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS), a multi-nuclide removal system, removes various radioactive materials from contaminated water, as per the Japanese government. In the context of ALPS-treated water which is to be released by Tokyo, Hayashi firmly ensures that there will be no harm to the “environment and human health”. (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 is ‘closely monitoring’ security pact between China, Solomon Islands, says foreign minister

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