U.S. President Joe Biden met Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House for a bilateral meeting. Biden told Kishida that the United States strongly supports the defense of Japan. Watch further to know more.

U.S. President Joe Biden meets Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington

Why do both Australia and China want to boost ties with the pacific nation of Papua New Guinea? Why are U.S and Japan expanding their security alliance? Molly Gambhir tells you what's brewing.

Gravitas: New U.S-Japan plan to counter China

Japanese prosecutors on Friday indicted the man accused of killing the former prime minister Shinzo Abe, a local court said.&nbsp;The indictment comes after a months-long psychiatric review&nbsp;deemed Tetsuya Yamagami fit to stand trial.

In a statement, Nara prosecutors’ office told AFP that Yamagami is being put on trial on the charges of murdering Abe and violating gun laws. If convicted, the accused could face the death penalty, RTE reported.

After the former Japanese prime minister was shot dead on July 8, last year, during his election campaign speech in the western city of Nara, the 42-year-old accused&nbsp;was detained on the spot. Yamagami had earlier admitted to killing Abe with a homemade gun.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/shinzo-abes-killer-who-is-he-and-why-did-he-target-the-beloved-ex-prime-minister-495805" hreflang="en">Shinzo Abe's killer: Who is he and why did he target the beloved ex-Prime Minister?</a>

The bullet that killed Abe was “deep enough to reach his heart.” The former prime minister died from excessive bleeding, doctors told CNN.

Yamagami allegedly harboured resentment towards the controversial Unification Church for coaxing his mother to make a donation of approximately $774,700 (100 million yen), bankrupting his family, and he&nbsp;held Abe responsible for supporting the sect, Reuters reported.

"He (Yamagami) confessed that he had some resentment against a certain organisation and was under the impression that the former prime minister having some connection to it, which led to the act. I would like to avoid further details," Kazuhisa Yamamura, the head of the first investigation division, Nara prefecture police had said back then.

Another reason why Yamagami targeted Abe could be&nbsp;that he believed Abe’s grandfather, who was also a former leader of the nation, had assisted the growth of a religious group he had a beef with, according to NHK.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/shinzo-abe-assassination-japan-pm-fumio-kishida-orders-probe-into-unification-church-525998" hreflang="en">Shinzo Abe assassination: Japan PM Fumio Kishida orders probe into unification church</a>

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Abe wasn’t a member of the church but had addressed a group that was associated with the church, CNA reported.

The sect, which Sun Myung Moon founded in Korea in 1954 and whose followers are often referred to as "Moonies," earned recognition throughout the world in the 1970s and 1980s. Officially known as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, the church, has vowed to stop members from making "excessive" donations while denying any wrongdoing.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japanese prosecutors on Friday indicted the man accused of killing the former prime minister Shinzo Abe, a local court said. The indictment comes after a months-long psychiatric review deemed Tetsuya Yamagami fit to stand trial.

Japanese prosecutors on Friday indicted the man accused of killing the former prime minister Shinzo Abe, a local court said. The indictment comes after a months-long psychiatric review deemed Tetsuya Yamagami fit to stand trial. In a statement, Nara prosecutors’ office told AFP that Yamagami is being put on trial on the charges of murdering Abe and violating gun laws. If convicted, the accused could face the death penalty, RTE reported. After the former Japanese prime minister was shot dead on July 8, last year, during his election campaign speech in the western city of Nara, the 42-year-old accused was detained on the spot. Yamagami had earlier admitted to killing Abe with a homemade gun. Also Read | Shinzo Abe's killer: Who is he and why did he target the beloved ex-Prime Minister? The bullet that killed Abe was “deep enough to reach his heart.” The former prime minister died from excessive bleeding, doctors told CNN. Yamagami allegedly harboured resentment towards the controversial Unification Church for coaxing his mother to make a donation of approximately $774,700 (100 million yen), bankrupting his family, and he held Abe responsible for supporting the sect, Reuters reported. "He (Yamagami) confessed that he had some resentment against a certain organisation and was under the impression that the former prime minister having some connection to it, which led to the act. I would like to avoid further details," Kazuhisa Yamamura, the head of the first investigation division, Nara prefecture police had said back then. Another reason why Yamagami targeted Abe could be that he believed Abe’s grandfather, who was also a former leader of the nation, had assisted the growth of a religious group he had a beef with, according to NHK. Watch | Shinzo Abe assassination: Japan PM Fumio Kishida orders probe into unification church Abe wasn’t a member of the church but had addressed a group that was associated with the church, CNA reported. The sect, which Sun Myung Moon founded in Korea in 1954 and whose followers are often referred to as "Moonies," earned recognition throughout the world in the 1970s and 1980s. Officially known as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, the church, has vowed to stop members from making "excessive" donations while denying any wrongdoing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Shinzo Abe assassination: Accused Yamagami indicted by Japan prosecutors after psych review

The spat over COVID-19 curbs on Chinese travellers escalated further on Wednesday when China&nbsp;introduced transit curbs for South Korean and Japanese nationals. China has reopened after three long years but several nations are introducing restrictions on Chinese travellers following which China had threatened retaliatory action.&nbsp;

Japan is protesting against China's decision of suspending visas for its citizens and asked Beijing to reverse its decision -- the retaliatory action that the Chinese government defended, calling it “reasonable.”

"It is regrettable that China unilaterally has taken visa suspension action for reasons other than steps for the coronavirus," Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said during a press conference on Wednesday, Reuters reported.

He emphasised that Japan's restrictions do not bar Chinese visitors from entering the nation. “We protested to China through diplomatic channels and demanded the removal of the measure,” he said, The Strait Times reported. Talking about Japan's border controls going forward, Matsuno said that the government will act appropriately in light of China's coronavirus crisis and its information revelation.

State-run tabloid Global Times defended Beijing's retaliation as a "direct and reasonable response to protect its own legitimate interests, particularly after some countries are continuing hyping up China's epidemic situation by putting travel restrictions for political manipulation."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/east-asia/covid-19-retaliation-china-suspends-short-term-visas-for-south-koreans-japanese-551040" hreflang="en">COVID-19 curbs retaliation: China suspends short-term visas for South Koreans, Japanese</a>

China's action followed Japan's toughening of COVID-19 border control regulations for travellers arriving directly from China, including the requirement for a negative PCR test result 72 hours prior to departure. Beijing slammed&nbsp;the testing requirements as "discriminatory."

On Tuesday, in its first reprisal against COVID-19 restrictions imposed on Chinese travellers, China suspended issuing short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese. The Chinese embassy in South Korea said that South Koreans would no longer be granted visas for the purpose of travel, business, medical treatment, transit, and general private affairs, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.

Other countries including the United States, South Korea, France, etc., have also introduced testing requirements in response to China's fresh Covid outbreak.

Watch | China dropped zero-Covid policy after massive protests

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Earlier this month, Beijing warned to take action against "unacceptable" Covid actions. “We believe that the entry restrictions adopted by some countries targeting China lack scientific basis, and some excessive practices are even more unacceptable,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said.

Following China's decision to abandon its "zero Covid" policy in December last year, its residents and citizens began to demand international flights, raising concerns about the virus’ spread and China's underreporting of the cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The spat over COVID-19 curbs on Chinese travellers escalated further on Wednesday when China introduced transit curbs for South Korean and Japanese nationals. China has reopened after three long years but several nations are introducing restrictions on Chinese travellers following which China had threatened retaliatory action.

The spat over COVID-19 curbs on Chinese travellers escalated further on Wednesday when China introduced transit curbs for South Korean and Japanese nationals. China has reopened after three long years but several nations are introducing restrictions on Chinese travellers following which China had threatened retaliatory action. Japan is protesting against China's decision of suspending visas for its citizens and asked Beijing to reverse its decision -- the retaliatory action that the Chinese government defended, calling it “reasonable.” "It is regrettable that China unilaterally has taken visa suspension action for reasons other than steps for the coronavirus," Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said during a press conference on Wednesday, Reuters reported. He emphasised that Japan's restrictions do not bar Chinese visitors from entering the nation. “We protested to China through diplomatic channels and demanded the removal of the measure,” he said, The Strait Times reported. Talking about Japan's border controls going forward, Matsuno said that the government will act appropriately in light of China's coronavirus crisis and its information revelation. State-run tabloid Global Times defended Beijing's retaliation as a "direct and reasonable response to protect its own legitimate interests, particularly after some countries are continuing hyping up China's epidemic situation by putting travel restrictions for political manipulation." Also Read | COVID-19 curbs retaliation: China suspends short-term visas for South Koreans, Japanese China's action followed Japan's toughening of COVID-19 border control regulations for travellers arriving directly from China, including the requirement for a negative PCR test result 72 hours prior to departure. Beijing slammed the testing requirements as "discriminatory." On Tuesday, in its first reprisal against COVID-19 restrictions imposed on Chinese travellers, China suspended issuing short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese. The Chinese embassy in South Korea said that South Koreans would no longer be granted visas for the purpose of travel, business, medical treatment, transit, and general private affairs, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported. Other countries including the United States, South Korea, France, etc., have also introduced testing requirements in response to China's fresh Covid outbreak. Watch | China dropped zero-Covid policy after massive protests Earlier this month, Beijing warned to take action against "unacceptable" Covid actions. “We believe that the entry restrictions adopted by some countries targeting China lack scientific basis, and some excessive practices are even more unacceptable,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said. Following China's decision to abandon its "zero Covid" policy in December last year, its residents and citizens began to demand international flights, raising concerns about the virus’ spread and China's underreporting of the cases. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China imposes transit curbs for South Korea, Japan as Tokyo protests visa suspension

In the face of their shared concerns about increasingly assertive China; Japan and the United States on Wednesday (January 11) announced stepped-up security co-operation. Washington strongly endorsed a major military build-up announced by Japan last month. Foreign and defence ministers of the two countries met in Washington.

A joint statement issued after the meetings said that both countries "provided a vision of a modernized Alliance postured to prevail in a new era of strategic competition."

"We agree that the PRC is the greatest shared strategic challenge that we and our allies and partners face," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told a joint news conference after the meeting, referring to the People's Republic of China.

At the briefing, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced plans to introduce a Marine Littoral Regiment in Japan, which would bring significant capabilities, including anti-ship missiles. Blinken said that two sides also agreed to extend the terms of their common defense treaty to cover space.

The joint statement said that given "a severely contested environment," the forward posture of U.S. forces in Japan should be upgraded "by positioning more versatile, resilient, and mobile forces with increased intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, anti-ship, and transportation capabilities."

Austin is to meet Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada again on Thursday at the Pentagon ahead of a meeting between US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Friday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the face of their shared concerns about increasingly assertive China; Japan and the United States on Wednesday (January 11) announced stepped-up security co-operation.

In the face of their shared concerns about increasingly assertive China; Japan and the United States on Wednesday (January 11) announced stepped-up security co-operation. Washington strongly endorsed a major military build-up announced by Japan last month. Foreign and defence ministers of the two countries met in Washington. A joint statement issued after the meetings said that both countries "provided a vision of a modernized Alliance postured to prevail in a new era of strategic competition." "We agree that the PRC is the greatest shared strategic challenge that we and our allies and partners face," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told a joint news conference after the meeting, referring to the People's Republic of China. At the briefing, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced plans to introduce a Marine Littoral Regiment in Japan, which would bring significant capabilities, including anti-ship missiles. Blinken said that two sides also agreed to extend the terms of their common defense treaty to cover space. The joint statement said that given "a severely contested environment," the forward posture of U.S. forces in Japan should be upgraded "by positioning more versatile, resilient, and mobile forces with increased intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, anti-ship, and transportation capabilities." Austin is to meet Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada again on Thursday at the Pentagon ahead of a meeting between US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Friday. (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 ×

US, Japan come closer amid worries over assertive China

Japan is concerned about China's rising security threats. It is boosting defence ties with the ally U.S., which is planning to deploy more anti-ship missiles in Japan. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: U.S. to increase anti-ship missiles in Japan

The United States and Japan held 'Two plus Two' security talks in Washington. During the meeting, the two countries discussed their shared vision of a modernized alliance and tackling the 21st-century challenges in Indo-Pacific and also around the world

U.S. and Japan to 'Set Course' for alliance in 'Two Plus Two' meet

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida signed a defence agreement in London on Wednesday that will allow the countries to deploy forces on each other's soil, the latest move towards closer security ties.

UK, Japan sign major defence deal during PM Kishida visit to London

The United States and Japan held 'Two plus Two' security talks in Washington. During the meeting, the two countries discussed their shared vision of a modernized alliance and tackling the 21st-century challenges in Indo-Pacific and also around the world.

Japan and U.S. hold 'Two plus Two' talks in Washington

A day after China halted its short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese travellers after Japan imposed covid19 curbs on visitors from China, Japan has now lodged a protest over the suspension of visas and asked China to overturn the action.

China defends its retaliation against South Korea and Japan travel curbs

The United States, in order to deter China, is set to significantly increase anti-ship missile capabilities in Japan, said Reuters citing three US officials. The total number of US troops in Japan is not likely to change but deployment of new capabilities may be first in a series of announcements aimed at deterring Chinese military power.

The agreement to deploy fresh anti-ship capabilities has come after nearly a year of talks. Formal announcement of the agreement will be made on Wednesday following meeting between Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and their Japanese counterparts.

Austin will meet Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada on Thursday at the Pentagon, followed by a meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Friday.

The latest US move has come a month after Japan unveiled its biggest military build-up since Second World War. It is five-year plan that was once unthinkable in the pacifist country. However, China's increasing assertiveness in the region has worried policymakers in Japan.

The anti-ship missiles would arrive in Japan under a revamped Marine Corps regiment of 2,000 troops that will focus on advanced intelligence, surveillance and transportation, the officials said. The move is expected to be completed by 2025.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States, in order to deter China, is set to significantly increase anti-ship missile capabilities in Japan, said Reuters citing three US officials. The total number of US troops in Japan is not likely to change but deployment of new capabilities may be first in a series of announcements aimed at deterring Chinese military power.

The United States, in order to deter China, is set to significantly increase anti-ship missile capabilities in Japan, said Reuters citing three US officials. The total number of US troops in Japan is not likely to change but deployment of new capabilities may be first in a series of announcements aimed at deterring Chinese military power. The agreement to deploy fresh anti-ship capabilities has come after nearly a year of talks. Formal announcement of the agreement will be made on Wednesday following meeting between Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and their Japanese counterparts. Austin will meet Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada on Thursday at the Pentagon, followed by a meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Friday. The latest US move has come a month after Japan unveiled its biggest military build-up since Second World War. It is five-year plan that was once unthinkable in the pacifist country. However, China's increasing assertiveness in the region has worried policymakers in Japan. The anti-ship missiles would arrive in Japan under a revamped Marine Corps regiment of 2,000 troops that will focus on advanced intelligence, surveillance and transportation, the officials said. The move is expected to be completed by 2025. (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 ×

US set to boost number of anti-ship missiles in Japan

After a lengthy psychiatric assessment, the Japanese authorities have found the man accused of murdering former prime minister Shinzo Abe fit to stand a trial, according to local media reports.

After a lengthy psychiatric assessment, the Japanese authorities have found the man accused of murdering former prime minister Shinzo Abe fit to stand a trial, according to local media reports. Tetsuya Yamagami, the accused will face trial six months after committing the gruesome killing of Abe in public. He shot at the former PM with a homemade gun from behind during a speech in the city of Nara. However, despite confessing multiple times that his intention was to kill Abe, the case failed to proceed to the trial stage as psychiatric evaluations to establish the criminal responsibility of the suspects prolonged the formalities. Read more: Japan bids farewell to ex-PM Shinzo Abe with controversial state funeral In Japan, such a review is mandatory under the Criminal Procedure Code, which allows psychiatrists to study a suspect to discern whether or not they are mentally stable. If Yamagami had been found mentally unstable, his punishment would have been automatically reduced. According to an AFP report, the psych review of Yamagami focused on his relationship with his mother and home environment, primarily because he had a grudge against the Unification Church. Yamagami's mother had donated a large sum of money to the religious group and he believed that Abe was connected to the organisation. WATCH | Gravitas: Shinzo Abe's killer claims cult link behind murder × "He (Yamagami) confessed that he had some resentment against a certain organisation and was under the impression that the former prime minister having some connection to it, which led to the act. I would like to avoid further details," Kazuhisa Yamamura, the head of the first investigation division, Nara prefecture police had said back then. Notably, Abe was not a member of the church but had addressed an affiliated group as have other powerful world leaders such as former US president Donald Trump. Since the church's connection was revealed in the killing, the Fumio Kishida government has ordered an investigation that could see the Unification Church lose its tax-exempt status. Read more: Unification Church in Japan pledges donation reforms after Shinzo Abe’s assassination (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Shinzo Abe murderer fit to stand trial after psych review: Reports

India and Japan are set to hold joint Air Exercise 'Veer Guardian-2023' at Japan's Hyakuri Air Base, next week in a bid to promote air defence cooperation between the two countries.

India and Japan to hold joint air exercise to promote defence cooperation

Japan on Sunday (January 8) tightened border controls further for travellers coming from mainland China. All such incoming travellers will now have to present proof of being Covid negative. The restrictions require that the Covid test should be conducted within 72 hours before departure.&nbsp;

The restrictions have been put in place with an aim of preventing the spread of highly transmittable strains of Covid as there is a massive surge in cases across China after the strict Zero-Covid policy restrictions were lifted.

The restrictions, however, currently do not apply to travellers coming from Hong Kong or Macau.

Other than that, all travellers from mainland China or those who were in the country within seven days before arrival in Japan will also have to take a PCR or high-quality antigen test when they arrive in Japan.

If a traveller tests positive on arrival in Japan and is showing symptoms, he/ she will have to quarantine for seven days. The quarantine period will be of five days if the traveller is asymptomatic.

Previously, those arriving from Hong Kong and Macau were restricted to four Japanese airports.

Meanwhile, China on Sunday, opened its borders for inbound travellers.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-weibo-bans-1000-accounts-critical-of-govts-covid-policy-550296">China’s Weibo bans more than 1,000 accounts critical of govt’s Covid policy</a>

On Sunday, the first section of passengers to arrive under the new rules landed at airports in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, CGTN news agency reported.

There were 387 flyers on the flights from Singapore and Toronto. However, no one was subjected to COVID-19 tests or earlier mandatory five-day quarantine after arrival.

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Japan on Sunday (January 8) tightened border controls further for travellers coming from mainland China. All such incoming travellers will now have to present proof of being Covid negative.

Japan on Sunday (January 8) tightened border controls further for travellers coming from mainland China. All such incoming travellers will now have to present proof of being Covid negative. The restrictions require that the Covid test should be conducted within 72 hours before departure. The restrictions have been put in place with an aim of preventing the spread of highly transmittable strains of Covid as there is a massive surge in cases across China after the strict Zero-Covid policy restrictions were lifted. The restrictions, however, currently do not apply to travellers coming from Hong Kong or Macau. Other than that, all travellers from mainland China or those who were in the country within seven days before arrival in Japan will also have to take a PCR or high-quality antigen test when they arrive in Japan. If a traveller tests positive on arrival in Japan and is showing symptoms, he/ she will have to quarantine for seven days. The quarantine period will be of five days if the traveller is asymptomatic. Previously, those arriving from Hong Kong and Macau were restricted to four Japanese airports. Meanwhile, China on Sunday, opened its borders for inbound travellers. Also Read | China’s Weibo bans more than 1,000 accounts critical of govt’s Covid policy On Sunday, the first section of passengers to arrive under the new rules landed at airports in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, CGTN news agency reported. There were 387 flyers on the flights from Singapore and Toronto. However, no one was subjected to COVID-19 tests or earlier mandatory five-day quarantine after arrival. 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 makes Covid test must for travellers from China, orders quarantine for those found infected

A flight of Jetstar Airways made an emergency landing at central Japan's Chubu Centrair International Airport on Saturday (January 7) after a bomb threat, though officials said that no explosive or harmful device was found in the search after evacuation. The flight was coming from the Narita airport near Tokyo and was bound for Fukuoka in southern Japan.&nbsp;

Earlier on Saturday, authorities at the Narita airport received an international call from Germany which said that a 100 kilogramme&nbsp;plastic bomb was in the cargo compartment of the flight, said a report by news agency Reuters citing the NHK. A spokesperson from the airport said there was a bomb threat for the flight but the details were unclear.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-military-plane-forced-to-make-emergency-landing-after-it-collides-with-flock-of-birds-537084">US military plane forced to make emergency landing after it collides with flock of birds</a>&nbsp;

The runway at the Chubu Centrair International Airport was closed after the Jetstar flight landed at 7.41 am (2241 GMT on Friday). However, operations at the airport resumed at 12.15 pm after safety was confirmed, an official said, adding six crew members and 136 passengers were on board the flight.&nbsp;

Some flights to and from the airport were delayed or cancelled due to the closure of the runway. On the other hand, the departure lobby for domestic flights was crowded with passengers seeking boarding pass refunds and transfer&nbsp;to other flights, the report said.&nbsp;

An official from the Chubu Centrair International Airport Police said that five people sustained minor injuries during the evacuation from the aircraft and no explosives or other suspicious objects were found when a search was carried out.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <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>

Jetstar Airways, meanwhile, said in a statement that the flight was diverted to the Chubu Centrair International Airport in Aichi prefecture after a "potential security incident" and passengers exited (the aircraft) via emergency slides. The airline said it is closely working with Chubu Airport authorities to probe the situation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A flight of Jetstar Airways made an emergency landing at central Japan's Chubu Centrair International Airport on Saturday (January 7) after a bomb threat, though officials said that no explosive or harmful device was found in the search after evacuation.

A flight of Jetstar Airways made an emergency landing at central Japan's Chubu Centrair International Airport on Saturday (January 7) after a bomb threat, though officials said that no explosive or harmful device was found in the search after evacuation. The flight was coming from the Narita airport near Tokyo and was bound for Fukuoka in southern Japan. Earlier on Saturday, authorities at the Narita airport received an international call from Germany which said that a 100 kilogramme plastic bomb was in the cargo compartment of the flight, said a report by news agency Reuters citing the NHK. A spokesperson from the airport said there was a bomb threat for the flight but the details were unclear. ALSO READ | US military plane forced to make emergency landing after it collides with flock of birds The runway at the Chubu Centrair International Airport was closed after the Jetstar flight landed at 7.41 am (2241 GMT on Friday). However, operations at the airport resumed at 12.15 pm after safety was confirmed, an official said, adding six crew members and 136 passengers were on board the flight. Some flights to and from the airport were delayed or cancelled due to the closure of the runway. On the other hand, the departure lobby for domestic flights was crowded with passengers seeking boarding pass refunds and transfer to other flights, the report said. An official from the Chubu Centrair International Airport Police said that five people sustained minor injuries during the evacuation from the aircraft and no explosives or other suspicious objects were found when a search was carried out. ALSO READ | Japan scrambled jet fighters to monitor Chinese aircraft carrier operations Jetstar Airways, meanwhile, said in a statement that the flight was diverted to the Chubu Centrair International Airport in Aichi prefecture after a "potential security incident" and passengers exited (the aircraft) via emergency slides. The airline said it is closely working with Chubu Airport authorities to probe the situation. (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.

Jetstar flight makes emergency landing in Japan after bomb threat; five injured during evacuation

A top spokesperson of the Japanese government said on Friday (January 6) said that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has been invited to visit Ukraine. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a regular news conference that the invitation was given by the head of Ukraine's Presidential Office Andriy Yermak to Japan's ambassador to Ukraine on Wednesday.

"Japan stands with the citizens of Ukraine ... and takes appropriate steps as this year's G7 chair," Matsuno said, referring to the Group of Seven (G7) nations.

Japanese PM Kishida is due to visit G7 member countries. The list includes France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States. It is a key diplomatic tour before Japan hosts G7 summit in May in Hiroshima.

Ukraine has rejected a Christmas ceasefire proposed by Russia. As per Orthodox Christian faith, Christmas is celebrated on January 7. Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered ceasefire on January 6 and 7.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hes-trying-to-find-oxygen-biden-on-putins-36-hour-ceasefire-order-549874">'He's trying to find oxygen': Biden on Putin's 36-hour ceasefire order</a>

The Kremlin said in a statement: "Taking into account the appeal of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, I (Putin) instruct the defence minister of the Russian Federation to introduce from 12:00 (0900 GMT) on January 6, 2023 until 24:00 (2100 GMT) on January 7, 2023 a ceasefire along the entire line of contact between the sides in Ukraine."&nbsp;

Ukraine has called declaration of ceasefire a 'hypocrisy'

(With inputs from agencies)

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A top spokesperson of the Japanese government said on Friday (January 6) said that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has been invited to visit Ukraine. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a regular news conference that the invitation was given by the head of Ukraine's Presidential Office Andriy Yermak to Japan's ambassador to Ukraine on Wednesday.

A top spokesperson of the Japanese government said on Friday (January 6) said that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has been invited to visit Ukraine. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a regular news conference that the invitation was given by the head of Ukraine's Presidential Office Andriy Yermak to Japan's ambassador to Ukraine on Wednesday. "Japan stands with the citizens of Ukraine ... and takes appropriate steps as this year's G7 chair," Matsuno said, referring to the Group of Seven (G7) nations. Japanese PM Kishida is due to visit G7 member countries. The list includes France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States. It is a key diplomatic tour before Japan hosts G7 summit in May in Hiroshima. Ukraine has rejected a Christmas ceasefire proposed by Russia. As per Orthodox Christian faith, Christmas is celebrated on January 7. Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered ceasefire on January 6 and 7. Also Read | 'He's trying to find oxygen': Biden on Putin's 36-hour ceasefire order The Kremlin said in a statement: "Taking into account the appeal of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, I (Putin) instruct the defence minister of the Russian Federation to introduce from 12:00 (0900 GMT) on January 6, 2023 until 24:00 (2100 GMT) on January 7, 2023 a ceasefire along the entire line of contact between the sides in Ukraine." Ukraine has called declaration of ceasefire a 'hypocrisy' (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 ×

Ukraine invites Japan PM Kishida for a visit 

The top-selling tuna at Tokyo's traditional New Year auction sold for more than $270,000 on Thursday, nearly double as compared to last year price.

Japan tuna price soars past ₹ 2 crore at New Year auction

The Japanese government is taking a drastic leap in an attempt to reverse population decline in certain regions of the country. The government has now offered a package of $7500 (1 million yen) per child to families to move out of Tokyo

World Business Watch: Japan offering 1 million yen per child to head off from Tokyo

Tensions continue in the Korean peninsula and in the latest North Korea has fired three ballistic missiles. South Korea's Joint Chief's of Staff stated that it was fired into the East Sea. The Japan Coast Guards also confirmed the same.

North Korea fires three ballistic missiles, Japan Coast Guard confirms firing of missiles

Japan is set to offer payment to families who move out of the overcrowded capital of Tokyo under a new scheme which would see parents offered one million yen ($7,600) per child to relocate.

WION Fineprint: Japan govt to pay about $7,600 per child if a family leaves Tokyo

Bangladesh on Wednesday opened its first Metro rail&nbsp;line in the capital Dhaka, which is one of the world's most densely populated cities. The new elevated train network has been in development for nearly 10 years and is slated to grow to over a hundred stations with six lines crisscrossing the city by 2030.&nbsp;

The Metro project has been mostly funded by Japan. Inaugurating the service on Wednesday, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said,&nbsp;"We have added another feather of pride to the crown of Bangladesh’s people today. Another feather added to the crown of the development of Bangladesh.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/stage-used-for-signing-surrender-of-pak-commander-during-bangladesh-1971-war-kept-in-museum-for-display-544115">Stage used for signing Pak surrender in 1971 Bangladesh liberation war on display in Dhaka museum</a>

Ambassador Kiminori Iwama, the newly appointed Japanese ambassador and Ichiguchi Tomohide, the chief representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), were also present during Wednesday's inauguration, the Associated Press reported.

Prime Minister Hasina used the opening ceremony to commemorate six Japanese rail engineers working on the project who were killed during an attack on a Dhaka cafe by Islamic extremists in 2016.&nbsp;

Hasina said the government had promised to eradicate traffic jams from Dhaka and with the six Metro lines, the government would be able to do so.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH | Bangladesh: Rohingya&nbsp;refugees turn to birth control in crowded settlements, embrace family planning

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On Wednesday, operations began on a section of the Metro line connecting a neighbourhood on Dhaka's periphery with the city centre. Once fully operational, the line is expected to carry 60,000 people each hour.&nbsp;

At present, daily commute&nbsp;along Dhaka's car-clogged roads is frustrating for residents and the Metro service will hopefully bring relief.&nbsp;

"We are counting on it. It will reduce public suffering," Mostafizur Rahman who spends nearly three hours riding a bus to work every morning, told news agency AFP on Wednesday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bangladesh on Wednesday opened its first Metro rail line in the capital Dhaka, which is one of the world's most densely populated cities. The new elevated train network has been in development for nearly 10 years and is slated to grow to over a hundred stations with six lines crisscrossing the city by 2030.

Bangladesh on Wednesday opened its first Metro rail line in the capital Dhaka, which is one of the world's most densely populated cities. The new elevated train network has been in development for nearly 10 years and is slated to grow to over a hundred stations with six lines crisscrossing the city by 2030. The Metro project has been mostly funded by Japan. Inaugurating the service on Wednesday, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said, "We have added another feather of pride to the crown of Bangladesh’s people today. Another feather added to the crown of the development of Bangladesh.” ALSO READ | Stage used for signing Pak surrender in 1971 Bangladesh liberation war on display in Dhaka museum Ambassador Kiminori Iwama, the newly appointed Japanese ambassador and Ichiguchi Tomohide, the chief representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), were also present during Wednesday's inauguration, the Associated Press reported. Prime Minister Hasina used the opening ceremony to commemorate six Japanese rail engineers working on the project who were killed during an attack on a Dhaka cafe by Islamic extremists in 2016. Hasina said the government had promised to eradicate traffic jams from Dhaka and with the six Metro lines, the government would be able to do so. ALSO WATCH | Bangladesh: Rohingya refugees turn to birth control in crowded settlements, embrace family planning × On Wednesday, operations began on a section of the Metro line connecting a neighbourhood on Dhaka's periphery with the city centre. Once fully operational, the line is expected to carry 60,000 people each hour. At present, daily commute along Dhaka's car-clogged roads is frustrating for residents and the Metro service will hopefully bring relief. "We are counting on it. It will reduce public suffering," Mostafizur Rahman who spends nearly three hours riding a bus to work every morning, told news agency AFP on Wednesday. (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.

Bangladesh opens its first Metro rail line to decongest clogged streets of capital Dhaka

2022 hasn't been great for workers all across the world, but CEOs, on the other hand, made the most of it. India Inc's CEOs took home 4% higher pay in the last fiscal year, while employees struggled to keep up with inflation. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Was your increment inflation-adjusted?

Japan on Wednesday recorded 415 COVID-19 deaths, the highest-ever count for a single day. The country counted 216,219 newly confirmed coronavirus cases on Wednesday. Watch further to know more.

Japan records 415 Covid deaths in 24 hours

Japan on Wednesday recorded 415 Covid deaths, the highest-ever count for a single day, health ministry data showed.

Japan records 415 new Covid deaths: Data

Heavy snowfall has killed at least 17 people in Japan and around 90 people have been left injured. Heavy snowfall also left 20,000 households without power since last week.

WION Climate Tracker | Japan snowfall: Death toll rises to 17

Japan's output of general machinery slipped 7.9%, while that of production machinery decreased 5.7%, driving down the overall index in November. Watch this video to know more.

World Business Watch: Japan November factory output falls 7.9 percent

Apple has been hit with $98 million in back taxes. The tech giant failed to flag suspicious bulk purchases from foreign visitors and will have to cover the tax exemptions.

Gravitas: Apple to cover incorrect tax exemptions in Japan

Researchers have found a new way to kill cancer cells by using artificial DNA which could pave the way for a cure of&nbsp;the disease in future. The existing methods of treating cancer have their limitations, however, scientists believe that RNA and DNA-based drugs could potentially help beat the deadly disease.&nbsp;The findings published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, last week, show that researchers at the University of Tokyo have used the chemically-synthesised, hairpin-shaped, cancer-killing DNA to target and kill human cervical cancer and breast cancer-derived cells. The DNA pairs were also used against malignant melanoma cells in mice.&nbsp;

The team of researchers at the University of Tokyo, led by Assistant Professor Kunihiko Morihiro and Professor Akimitsu Okamoto from the Graduate School of Engineering, indicated that they were inspired to move away from conventional anti-cancer drug treatments by using artificial DNA.&nbsp;

Notably, nucleic acids&nbsp;(namely DNA and RNA) drugs are not typically used for cancer treatment&nbsp;and have been challenging in the past given that it is difficult for them to distinguish between cancer cells and other healthy cells.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/revolutionary-gene-therapy-treats-patients-incurable-cancer-gives-hope-to-others-542264">Revolutionary gene therapy treats patient's incurable cancer, gives hope to others</a>

Therefore, there has been a risk of adversely affecting the patient’s immune system if the healthy cells are accidentally attacked. “We thought that if we can create new drugs that work by a different mechanism of action from that of conventional drugs, they may be effective against cancers that have been untreatable up to now,” said Okamoto.&nbsp;

This led the team of researchers, for the first time, to develop the&nbsp;hairpin-shaped DNA strand which can activate a natural immune response to target and kill specific cancerous cells.&nbsp;

How does it work?

Cancer cells can overexpress, which means creating too many copies of a protein like RNA, DNA or other substance, causing them not to function normally and potentially contributing to cancer development. Therefore, to mitigate this growth as well as prevent it, the team from Tokyo created something called artificial oncolytic which are the aforementioned DNA pairs called oHPs.

The hairpin-shaped DNA was injected into the cancer cell, subsequently, oHPs were triggered to form longer DNA strands when they encountered microRNA called miR-21, which is overproduced in certain cancers, these molecules then began to unravel and joined together creating an immune response. Furthermore, these long chains of DNA not only killed the cancer cells, but they were also able to prevent further growth of the cancerous tissue.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-how-music-can-help-cancer-patients-547161">WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients</a>

Typically, oHPs don't form longer strands due to their curved hairpin shape, but in this case, the artificial oHPs were able to overcome this limitation and opened up to combine with target microRNA and form a longer strand. According to the study, this causes the immune system to recognise the presence of the overexpressed miR-21 as dangerous and trigger its innate immune response which results in the death of the cancer cells.&nbsp;

What type of cancers was it effective against?

The study found that the test was effective against overexpressed miR-21 found in human cervical cancer-derived cells, human triple-negative breast cancer-derived cells, and mouse malignant melanoma-derived cells.&nbsp;

What next?

In a statement, Okamoto said that the formation of DNA strands due to interaction between short DNA oHPs and overexpressed miR-21 are the first examples of its use as a “selective immune amplification response which can target tumour regression”. &nbsp;

The researcher also noted how the interaction found by the research team provides, “a new class of nucleic acid drug candidates with a mechanism that is completely different from known nucleic acid drugs.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/uk-couple-battling-cancer-in-pregnancy-gives-birth-to-miracle-baby-545840">UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby</a>

Furthermore, the research is expected to transform the future of medicine through the use of a similar method to treat illnesses caused by viruses and genetic diseases. However, they still have a long way to go before the method can actually be used as a treatment and made available for the general public, but the team is confident about the benefits of nucleic acids for new drug discovery.&nbsp;

“The results of this study are good news for doctors, drug discovery researchers and cancer patients, as we believe it will give them new options for drug development and medication policies. Next, we will aim for drug discovery based on the results of this research, and examine in detail the drug efficacy, toxicity and potential administration methods,” Okamoto noted.&nbsp; 
 
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Researchers have found a new way to kill cancer cells by using artificial DNA which could pave the way for a cure of the disease in future. The existing methods of treating cancer have their limitations, however, scientists believe that RNA and DNA-based drugs could potentially help beat the deadly disease.

Researchers have found a new way to kill cancer cells by using artificial DNA which could pave the way for a cure of the disease in future. The existing methods of treating cancer have their limitations, however, scientists believe that RNA and DNA-based drugs could potentially help beat the deadly disease. The findings published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, last week, show that researchers at the University of Tokyo have used the chemically-synthesised, hairpin-shaped, cancer-killing DNA to target and kill human cervical cancer and breast cancer-derived cells. The DNA pairs were also used against malignant melanoma cells in mice. The team of researchers at the University of Tokyo, led by Assistant Professor Kunihiko Morihiro and Professor Akimitsu Okamoto from the Graduate School of Engineering, indicated that they were inspired to move away from conventional anti-cancer drug treatments by using artificial DNA. Notably, nucleic acids (namely DNA and RNA) drugs are not typically used for cancer treatment and have been challenging in the past given that it is difficult for them to distinguish between cancer cells and other healthy cells. ALSO READ | Revolutionary gene therapy treats patient's incurable cancer, gives hope to others Therefore, there has been a risk of adversely affecting the patient’s immune system if the healthy cells are accidentally attacked. “We thought that if we can create new drugs that work by a different mechanism of action from that of conventional drugs, they may be effective against cancers that have been untreatable up to now,” said Okamoto. This led the team of researchers, for the first time, to develop the hairpin-shaped DNA strand which can activate a natural immune response to target and kill specific cancerous cells. How does it work? Cancer cells can overexpress, which means creating too many copies of a protein like RNA, DNA or other substance, causing them not to function normally and potentially contributing to cancer development. Therefore, to mitigate this growth as well as prevent it, the team from Tokyo created something called artificial oncolytic which are the aforementioned DNA pairs called oHPs. The hairpin-shaped DNA was injected into the cancer cell, subsequently, oHPs were triggered to form longer DNA strands when they encountered microRNA called miR-21, which is overproduced in certain cancers, these molecules then began to unravel and joined together creating an immune response. Furthermore, these long chains of DNA not only killed the cancer cells, but they were also able to prevent further growth of the cancerous tissue. ALSO WATCH | WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients Typically, oHPs don't form longer strands due to their curved hairpin shape, but in this case, the artificial oHPs were able to overcome this limitation and opened up to combine with target microRNA and form a longer strand. According to the study, this causes the immune system to recognise the presence of the overexpressed miR-21 as dangerous and trigger its innate immune response which results in the death of the cancer cells. What type of cancers was it effective against? The study found that the test was effective against overexpressed miR-21 found in human cervical cancer-derived cells, human triple-negative breast cancer-derived cells, and mouse malignant melanoma-derived cells. What next? In a statement, Okamoto said that the formation of DNA strands due to interaction between short DNA oHPs and overexpressed miR-21 are the first examples of its use as a “selective immune amplification response which can target tumour regression”. The researcher also noted how the interaction found by the research team provides, “a new class of nucleic acid drug candidates with a mechanism that is completely different from known nucleic acid drugs.” ALSO READ | UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby Furthermore, the research is expected to transform the future of medicine through the use of a similar method to treat illnesses caused by viruses and genetic diseases. However, they still have a long way to go before the method can actually be used as a treatment and made available for the general public, but the team is confident about the benefits of nucleic acids for new drug discovery. “The results of this study are good news for doctors, drug discovery researchers and cancer patients, as we believe it will give them new options for drug development and medication policies. Next, we will aim for drug discovery based on the results of this research, and examine in detail the drug efficacy, toxicity and potential administration methods,” Okamoto noted. 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.

Explained: In a first, scientists use artificial DNA to kill cancer cells: Here’s what you need to know

A tax hike aimed at paying for the nation's defence budget is scheduled to go into effect "sometime after 2024," according to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who on Tuesday suggested that a quick election may be called instead. Despite fierce resistance from within the ruling coalition and Kishida's waning popularity, the government is expected to enact tax increases to make up a shortfall of 1 trillion yen ($7.47 billion) in the defence budget.

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"We will be asking the general public to take on the (tax) burden for an appropriate period of time, starting from sometime after 2024 up to 2027. We'll make a decision on when it starts, and I think there could be an election by then," Kishida said in a late-night television programme aired on Tuesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-after-japan-india-and-malaysia-now-us-mulls-stricter-rules-for-travellers-from-china-547206">COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China</a>

In an interview with Kyodo news agency, the premier stated that he is "not currently thinking about having an election next year." Unless Kishida calls for a sudden election, the following national election is scheduled for 2025.

Also watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch: Japan November factory output falls 7.9 percent

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Kishida promised to boost defence spending to two per cent&nbsp;of Japan's GDP by 2027 when he unveiled a new national security strategy in the middle of December.

A one trillion yen rise in taxes, according to Kishida, will provide the additional cash needed for the new defence strategy.

Koichi Hagiuda, the policy director for the Liberal Democratic Party, stated on Sunday that it was essential to dissolve parliament prior to the imposition of tax increases in order to give the public a chance to weigh in on the issue.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A tax hike aimed at paying for the nation's defence budget is scheduled to go into effect "sometime after 2024," according to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who on Tuesday suggested that a quick election may be called instead.

A tax hike aimed at paying for the nation's defence budget is scheduled to go into effect "sometime after 2024," according to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who on Tuesday suggested that a quick election may be called instead. Despite fierce resistance from within the ruling coalition and Kishida's waning popularity, the government is expected to enact tax increases to make up a shortfall of 1 trillion yen ($7.47 billion) in the defence budget. "We will be asking the general public to take on the (tax) burden for an appropriate period of time, starting from sometime after 2024 up to 2027. We'll make a decision on when it starts, and I think there could be an election by then," Kishida said in a late-night television programme aired on Tuesday. Also read | COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China In an interview with Kyodo news agency, the premier stated that he is "not currently thinking about having an election next year." Unless Kishida calls for a sudden election, the following national election is scheduled for 2025. Also watch | World Business Watch: Japan November factory output falls 7.9 percent Kishida promised to boost defence spending to two per cent of Japan's GDP by 2027 when he unveiled a new national security strategy in the middle of December. A one trillion yen rise in taxes, according to Kishida, will provide the additional cash needed for the new defence strategy. Koichi Hagiuda, the policy director for the Liberal Democratic Party, stated on Sunday that it was essential to dissolve parliament prior to the imposition of tax increases in order to give the public a chance to weigh in on the issue. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japanese PM suggests holding early election prior to raising taxes to fund defence budget

Apple Inc's (AAPL.O) Japan unit is being charged 13 billion yen ($98 million) in additional taxes for bulk sales of iPhones and other Apple devices to foreign tourists that were incorrectly exempted from the consumption tax. Watch this video to know more.

World Business Watch: Apple Japan hit with $98 million in back taxes

Japanese officials said on Monday (December 26) that at least 17 were killed in heavy snowfall across the nation. The officials have also said that thousands of homes are suffering power outages. In the past few days, most of Japan's west coast witnessed persistent heavy snow. The northern region of Hokkaido also faced similar weather brutality.&nbsp;

Local media reported that some areas, including the town of Oguni in the northeastern Yamagata region, have seen almost a metre of snowfall in 24 hours.&nbsp;

As per a report by NHK, rural areas in Japan's Niigata Prefecture observed one metre and 20 centimetres of snow. The report also mentioned that around 2,000 households remained without power as of Sunday evening as the snow caused a blackout in the region since Saturday.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker | NOAA: Arctic to transform from snowfall to rainfall&nbsp;

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Tens of thousands of homes in Hokkaido have lost electricity in recent days. The authorities have said that the snow brought down power lines, though most connections have now been restored.&nbsp;

A warning has been issued to the resident of most affected regions by Japan's weather agency. People were told to avoid unnecessary travel as heavy snow was causing&nbsp;cars to remain stranded on roads.&nbsp;

As per government officials, 17 people have been killed so far and dozens have been injured due to&nbsp;the snow since December 17.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japanese officials said on Monday (December 26) that at least 17 were killed in heavy snowfall across the nation. The officials have also said that thousands of homes are suffering power outages.

Japanese officials said on Monday (December 26) that at least 17 were killed in heavy snowfall across the nation. The officials have also said that thousands of homes are suffering power outages. In the past few days, most of Japan's west coast witnessed persistent heavy snow. The northern region of Hokkaido also faced similar weather brutality. Local media reported that some areas, including the town of Oguni in the northeastern Yamagata region, have seen almost a metre of snowfall in 24 hours. As per a report by NHK, rural areas in Japan's Niigata Prefecture observed one metre and 20 centimetres of snow. The report also mentioned that around 2,000 households remained without power as of Sunday evening as the snow caused a blackout in the region since Saturday. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker | NOAA: Arctic to transform from snowfall to rainfall × Tens of thousands of homes in Hokkaido have lost electricity in recent days. The authorities have said that the snow brought down power lines, though most connections have now been restored. A warning has been issued to the resident of most affected regions by Japan's weather agency. People were told to avoid unnecessary travel as heavy snow was causing cars to remain stranded on roads. As per government officials, 17 people have been killed so far and dozens have been injured due to the snow since December 17. (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: At least 17 dead in days of heavy snow across the nation

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