Japan&nbsp;and the Netherlands will soon agree to join the United States in restricting exports of semiconductor manufacturing equipment to China, Bloomberg News reported.&nbsp;Talks between the countries will conclude as early as Friday, with the Netherlands restricting ASML Holding NV from selling machines to China used to make certain types of advanced chips, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter.

Japan&nbsp;would impose similar restrictions on Nikon Corp, the report said.

Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Seiji Kihara, a government spokesperson, said&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;would make "appropriate steps" based on the United States' and other nations' regulatory moves. He declined to comment further when asked about the report at a Friday afternoon media briefing.

The Dutch foreign ministry declined comment. Prime Minister Mark Rutte, who has said he expects to reach agreement with the United States and other allies on stricter controls but that the Netherlands will not simply adopt U.S. rules, will take questions at his weekly news briefing later on Friday.

Sources have told Reuters that a deal between Dutch and U.S. officials could be clinched by the end of the month as representatives from the two countries meet in Washington on Friday.

Getting the Netherlands and&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;to impose tighter export controls on China would be a major diplomatic win for U.S. President Joe Biden's administration, which in October announced sweeping restrictions on Beijing's access to U.S. chipmaking technology to slow its technological and military advances.

Without&nbsp;Japanese or Dutch cooperation, U.S. companies would face a competitive disadvantage.

"We have been in discussion with the United States and other countries regarding the export-control regime," Yasutoshi Nishimura,&nbsp;Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, told reporters on Friday.

"We will implement any measures in accordance with our Foreign Exchange Law and through international cooperation," he added, declining to provide further details.

While Nikon could be affected, the&nbsp;Japanese company most likely to be affected by new restrictions will be chip manufacturing machinery maker Tokyo Electron, which relies on China for about a quarter of its sales, said Masahiko Hosokawa, a Meisei University professor and former director general of trade control at the ministry.

"A balance needs to be struck so no one among&nbsp;Japan, the United States and Europe will be disproportionately disadvantaged. It's about fairness," he said.

Dutch officials have insisted that fresh controls address national security concerns rather than favour U.S. chip-related companies, a source familiar with the discussions told Reuters.

Japan&nbsp;expects sales at affected chip-related companies to rebound quickly because the market for their equipment is expanding, a trade and industry official involved in overseeing semiconductor firms told Reuters. He asked not to be identified because he is not authorised to speak to the media.

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Japan and the Netherlands will soon agree to join the United States in restricting exports of semiconductor manufacturing equipment to China, Bloomberg News reported.

Japan and the Netherlands will soon agree to join the United States in restricting exports of semiconductor manufacturing equipment to China, Bloomberg News reported. Talks between the countries will conclude as early as Friday, with the Netherlands restricting ASML Holding NV from selling machines to China used to make certain types of advanced chips, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. Japan would impose similar restrictions on Nikon Corp, the report said. Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Seiji Kihara, a government spokesperson, said Japan would make "appropriate steps" based on the United States' and other nations' regulatory moves. He declined to comment further when asked about the report at a Friday afternoon media briefing. The Dutch foreign ministry declined comment. Prime Minister Mark Rutte, who has said he expects to reach agreement with the United States and other allies on stricter controls but that the Netherlands will not simply adopt U.S. rules, will take questions at his weekly news briefing later on Friday. Sources have told Reuters that a deal between Dutch and U.S. officials could be clinched by the end of the month as representatives from the two countries meet in Washington on Friday. Getting the Netherlands and Japan to impose tighter export controls on China would be a major diplomatic win for U.S. President Joe Biden's administration, which in October announced sweeping restrictions on Beijing's access to U.S. chipmaking technology to slow its technological and military advances. Without Japanese or Dutch cooperation, U.S. companies would face a competitive disadvantage. "We have been in discussion with the United States and other countries regarding the export-control regime," Yasutoshi Nishimura, Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, told reporters on Friday. "We will implement any measures in accordance with our Foreign Exchange Law and through international cooperation," he added, declining to provide further details. While Nikon could be affected, the Japanese company most likely to be affected by new restrictions will be chip manufacturing machinery maker Tokyo Electron, which relies on China for about a quarter of its sales, said Masahiko Hosokawa, a Meisei University professor and former director general of trade control at the ministry. "A balance needs to be struck so no one among Japan, the United States and Europe will be disproportionately disadvantaged. It's about fairness," he said. Dutch officials have insisted that fresh controls address national security concerns rather than favour U.S. chip-related companies, a source familiar with the discussions told Reuters. Japan expects sales at affected chip-related companies to rebound quickly because the market for their equipment is expanding, a trade and industry official involved in overseeing semiconductor firms told Reuters. He asked not to be identified because he is not authorised to speak to the media. 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, Netherlands to join US in restricting chip equipment exports to China: Report

Hundreds of schools as well as universities across Japan received fax messages with bomb and death threats on Wednesday, stoking panic and subsequent closure of the schools. Most schools, however, were reopened on Thursday. According to an official statement, the threats were faxed to high schools and universities from a Tokyo-registered number. The authorities are yet to make any arrest(s) for the bomb threats.

Police said that no explosives were found in all the school buildings that it investigated after receiving the complaints related to bomb threats. The threats shocked the nation known for its historically low crime rate.

All the faxed threats used the name of a certain lawyer written in a unique font, according to the education ministry sources cited by the Japan Times.&nbsp;

Japan schools bomb threat row: What happened?

According to law enforcement officials, the schools in Osaka, Saitama and Ibaraki began receiving the first wave of bomb threat messages on Monday.

Officials said that as many as 174 schools received bomb threats in Saitama prefecture, located just 31 km southwest of capital Tokyo. In total, threats were sent to about 300 senior high schools and universities across Japan, officials said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-cracks-down-on-cyberbullying-the-crime-can-now-get-you-a-year-in-jail-496033">Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why</a>

One message claimed that over 330 bombs had been set up. Another reportedly said: "I planted a major bomb."

Reports in Japanese media claimed that some fax messages demanded ransoms ranging from 300,000 yen ($2,320) to 3 million yen.

After Monday, schools received threats to kill students and teachers with homemade weapons on Tuesday.

Japan schools bomb threat row: What it means?

Experts cited in the media say it to be an act of organised criminal groups. Shinichi Ishizuka, a law professor and director of the Criminology Research Centre at Kyoto’s Ryukoku University, said the attacks seemed to be unsophisticated.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-mass-stabbing-incident-shocks-japan-222367">Gravitas: Mass Stabbing Incident Shocks Japan</a>

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"This is reminiscent of the ‘ore-ore’ scams that were common a few years ago but which people became aware of and they became less effective," he told South China Morning Post, referring to cold calls from organised criminal groups who targeted elderly people while posing as a relative in trouble.&nbsp;

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Hundreds of schools as well as universities across Japan received fax messages with bomb and death threats on Wednesday, stoking panic and subsequent closure of the schools.

Hundreds of schools as well as universities across Japan received fax messages with bomb and death threats on Wednesday, stoking panic and subsequent closure of the schools. Most schools, however, were reopened on Thursday. According to an official statement, the threats were faxed to high schools and universities from a Tokyo-registered number. The authorities are yet to make any arrest(s) for the bomb threats. Police said that no explosives were found in all the school buildings that it investigated after receiving the complaints related to bomb threats. The threats shocked the nation known for its historically low crime rate. All the faxed threats used the name of a certain lawyer written in a unique font, according to the education ministry sources cited by the Japan Times. Japan schools bomb threat row: What happened? According to law enforcement officials, the schools in Osaka, Saitama and Ibaraki began receiving the first wave of bomb threat messages on Monday. Officials said that as many as 174 schools received bomb threats in Saitama prefecture, located just 31 km southwest of capital Tokyo. In total, threats were sent to about 300 senior high schools and universities across Japan, officials said. ALSO READ | Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why One message claimed that over 330 bombs had been set up. Another reportedly said: "I planted a major bomb." Reports in Japanese media claimed that some fax messages demanded ransoms ranging from 300,000 yen ($2,320) to 3 million yen. After Monday, schools received threats to kill students and teachers with homemade weapons on Tuesday. Japan schools bomb threat row: What it means? Experts cited in the media say it to be an act of organised criminal groups. Shinichi Ishizuka, a law professor and director of the Criminology Research Centre at Kyoto’s Ryukoku University, said the attacks seemed to be unsophisticated. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Mass Stabbing Incident Shocks Japan × "This is reminiscent of the ‘ore-ore’ scams that were common a few years ago but which people became aware of and they became less effective," he told South China Morning Post, referring to cold calls from organised criminal groups who targeted elderly people while posing as a relative in trouble. 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 300 schools, universities receive bomb, death threats; panic ensues

Much of Japan is blanketed by the snow that has killed at least one person and has disrupted travel. According to an official of Japan's meteorological department - the temperatures are some of the coldest that they have seen in a decade.

WION Climate Tracker: Japan's cold wave results in one death, mercury dips below zero in many areas

Tourists in Kyoto snap wintry scenes at shrines, and the city's famous temples are covered in snow, as a winter storm hits large swathes of Japan.

Watch: Kyoto blanketed in snow as a winter storm hits large swathes of Japan

Hong Kong-based ship has sunk in the waters between South Korea and Japan and the rescue operations are going on to rescue the 22 crew members. South Korean officials say that their coast guards along with those from Japan are trying to rescue the crew members.

Cargo ship 'Jintian' sinks off Japan cost between waters of South Korea, Japan

Faced with the twin problems of a low birth rate and an ageing population, Japan has sounded the alarm. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Monday said that the twin problems pose an urgent risk to society and said that the issue "cannot wait and cannot be postponed." He also pledged to address the issue by establishing a new government agency.

<h2>What did the PM say?</h2>

Addressing lawmakers during a policy address marking the start of a new parliament session, Kishida said that according to estimates the number of births in the country dropped below 800,000 last year.

"Japan is standing on the verge of whether we can continue to function as a society," he warned, adding that "focusing attention on policies regarding children and child-rearing is an issue that cannot wait and cannot be postponed."

Watch |&nbsp;WION Wideangle | Population bomb: Boon or bane?

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"We must build a child-first social economy to reverse the (low) birth rate," said Kishida.

<h2>How serious is the situation?</h2>

Japan has a population of around 125 million people, and in 2022, as the PM mentioned in his address, the population for the first time recorded only 80,000 births. Forecasts had predicted this would happen, but unfortunately, it happened eight years too soon.

For the last eleven years, the country has been breaking its yearly record for the lowest-ever births. In 2020, it reported 840,832 births and in 2021; it reported a 3.5 per cent fall to 811,604. This year, it has apparently fallen even more to a new low of 80,000.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/japan-to-pay-child-rearing-families-millions-to-shift-from-tokyo-to-rural-areas-with-ageing-population-548920">Japan to pay child-rearing families millions to shift from Tokyo to rural areas</a>

Japan is the world's second-oldest country with a median age of 49. About, 28 per cent of its population is aged 65 years or older. The tiny city-state of Monaco with a measly population of 36,686 is the oldest, with around 36 per cent of its citizens over the age of 65.

The nation's fertility rate, which is the number of children a Japanese woman will have in her lifetime too took a hit. In 2021, it fell by 0.30 points to 1.30 children per woman.

<h2>What steps have Japan taken to deal with the so-called "ticking time bomb"?</h2>

To deal with the falling birthrate, Kishida's government, as per the leader, has launched multiple policies, including the new Children and Families Agency in April.

The policies have been designed to support parents and ensure the "sustainability" of the world's third-largest economy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-meet-labour-crunch-aid-an-aging-population-japan-develops-bex-a-goat-robot-484520">To meet labour crunch, aid an aging population Japan develops 'BEX' a goat-robot</a>

As per the UN, since the early 1990s, "the Japanese Government has expanded family policies and programmes in three areas: (1) childcare services; (2) parental leave schemes; and (3) monetary assistance in the form of child allowances."

In October 2022, the government also proposed extending parental leave from 14 weeks to 26 weeks for mothers and from eight weeks to 12 weeks for fathers.

<h2>What is behind this population decline?</h2>

Japan is dealing with two problems: a shrinking workforce and an ageing population.

While the rate of decline has slowed in recent years, thanks to an increase in foreign employees arriving under a more liberal visa system, coronavirus has had a detrimental impact, preventing firms facing labour shortages from hiring foreign workers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-says-japan-would-eventually-cease-to-exist-heres-what-he-meant-by-it-477573">Elon Musk says Japan would 'eventually cease to exist'. Here's what he meant by it</a>

Japan is not alone in&nbsp;facing this population decline. Its closest neighbours have also reported the problem. As per AFP, this could be chalked up to factors like rising living costs, more women entering the workforce and people choosing to have children later or not have them. Recently China too reported that for the first time in six decades, its population has declined.

<h2>What does a declining population do to a country?</h2>

A community with a higher proportion of senior citizens can be less appealing to businesses. Business owners face a shortage of qualified workers, while the country's economy suffers without foreign businesses.

Twitter CEO Elon Musk too had voiced concern about Japan's falling birth rate. In May 2022, the billionaire had warned that the nation may soon "cease to exist", which he remarked would be a great loss for the world.

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At risk of stating the obvious, unless something changes to cause the birth rate to exceed the death rate, Japan will eventually cease to exist. This would be a great loss for the world.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1523045544536723456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

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Faced with the twin problems of a low birth rate and an ageing population, Japan has sounded the alarm. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Monday said that the twin problems pose an urgent risk to society and said that the issue "cannot wait and cannot be postponed.

Faced with the twin problems of a low birth rate and an ageing population, Japan has sounded the alarm. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Monday said that the twin problems pose an urgent risk to society and said that the issue "cannot wait and cannot be postponed." He also pledged to address the issue by establishing a new government agency. What did the PM say? Addressing lawmakers during a policy address marking the start of a new parliament session, Kishida said that according to estimates the number of births in the country dropped below 800,000 last year. "Japan is standing on the verge of whether we can continue to function as a society," he warned, adding that "focusing attention on policies regarding children and child-rearing is an issue that cannot wait and cannot be postponed." Watch | WION Wideangle | Population bomb: Boon or bane? "We must build a child-first social economy to reverse the (low) birth rate," said Kishida. How serious is the situation? Japan has a population of around 125 million people, and in 2022, as the PM mentioned in his address, the population for the first time recorded only 80,000 births. Forecasts had predicted this would happen, but unfortunately, it happened eight years too soon. For the last eleven years, the country has been breaking its yearly record for the lowest-ever births. In 2020, it reported 840,832 births and in 2021; it reported a 3.5 per cent fall to 811,604. This year, it has apparently fallen even more to a new low of 80,000. Also read | Japan to pay child-rearing families millions to shift from Tokyo to rural areas Japan is the world's second-oldest country with a median age of 49. About, 28 per cent of its population is aged 65 years or older. The tiny city-state of Monaco with a measly population of 36,686 is the oldest, with around 36 per cent of its citizens over the age of 65. The nation's fertility rate, which is the number of children a Japanese woman will have in her lifetime too took a hit. In 2021, it fell by 0.30 points to 1.30 children per woman. What steps have Japan taken to deal with the so-called "ticking time bomb"? To deal with the falling birthrate, Kishida's government, as per the leader, has launched multiple policies, including the new Children and Families Agency in April. The policies have been designed to support parents and ensure the "sustainability" of the world's third-largest economy. Also read | To meet labour crunch, aid an aging population Japan develops 'BEX' a goat-robot As per the UN, since the early 1990s, "the Japanese Government has expanded family policies and programmes in three areas: (1) childcare services; (2) parental leave schemes; and (3) monetary assistance in the form of child allowances." In October 2022, the government also proposed extending parental leave from 14 weeks to 26 weeks for mothers and from eight weeks to 12 weeks for fathers. What is behind this population decline? Japan is dealing with two problems: a shrinking workforce and an ageing population. While the rate of decline has slowed in recent years, thanks to an increase in foreign employees arriving under a more liberal visa system, coronavirus has had a detrimental impact, preventing firms facing labour shortages from hiring foreign workers. Also read | Elon Musk says Japan would 'eventually cease to exist'. Here's what he meant by it Japan is not alone in facing this population decline. Its closest neighbours have also reported the problem. As per AFP, this could be chalked up to factors like rising living costs, more women entering the workforce and people choosing to have children later or not have them. Recently China too reported that for the first time in six decades, its population has declined. What does a declining population do to a country? A community with a higher proportion of senior citizens can be less appealing to businesses. Business owners face a shortage of qualified workers, while the country's economy suffers without foreign businesses. Twitter CEO Elon Musk too had voiced concern about Japan's falling birth rate. In May 2022, the billionaire had warned that the nation may soon "cease to exist", which he remarked would be a great loss for the world. At risk of stating the obvious, unless something changes to cause the birth rate to exceed the death rate, Japan will eventually cease to exist. This would be a great loss for the world. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 7, 2022 × (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.

Explained: How falling birthrate is a ticking time bomb for this giant economy

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said his government would soon put in place urgent measures to boost the country's birthrate. The country currently has the second-oldest population in the world behind Monaco, with the aging and shrinking population having major implications for the economy.

WION Fineprint: Japan's PM Kishida vows to raise birth rate

On Saturday in Lyon, Japan won the biennial Pastry World Cup, giving it its first triumph in 16 years. When the three-person Japanese team's victory was announced, they erupted in celebration on the podium.

Japan wins pastry world cup 2023, competition took place in Chassieu, Eastern France

In pics: Looking like Japan? This is Bengaluru painted in pink with cherry blossom-like flower

Japan's inflation rose by almost 4% in December from a year ago, hitting a new 41-year high. The inflation surge has also triggered a debate if the Central Bank will now move from its decades-long quality of ultra low interest rates.

Japan's inflation hits new 41-year high; consumer inflation rises 4% from last year

Japan's central bank left its ultra-easy monetary policy unchanged, a move that sent the yen plunging, despite heavy speculation it could again tweak a key lever.

Bank of Japan sticks to easy policy, defies market speculation

U.S. President Joe Biden and Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida discussed joint security issues as well as the global economy in summit talks. Watch further to know more.

Japan PM Kishida concludes visit of G7 nations

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

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