Japan's&nbsp;Princess&nbsp;Mako&nbsp;is set to forego a&nbsp;one-off&nbsp;million-dollar&nbsp;payment&nbsp;for giving&nbsp;up&nbsp;her royal status to wed a college classmate,&nbsp;media&nbsp;said on Saturday, clearing the way for a&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;delayed for years by controversy over her fiance.

The 29-year-old grand-daughter of then-Emperor Akihito and her former college classmate, Kei Komuro, announced their engagement in 2017.

But the&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;was put&nbsp;off&nbsp;after reports of a financial dispute between Komuro's mother and her former fiance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-to-vote-on-allowing-same-sex-marriage-in-referendum-416076">Also read |&nbsp;Swiss to vote on allowing same-sex marriage in referendum</a>

The government is set to agree that the&nbsp;princess&nbsp;forego the&nbsp;payment, worth&nbsp;up&nbsp;to 150 million yen for royals giving&nbsp;up&nbsp;their status to marry commoners, amid public criticism over her fiance, public broadcaster NHK and others said.

NHK said the wedding date may be announced in October.

Officials of the Imperial Household Agency were not immediately available to comment.

A Japanese broadcaster, anticipating an imminent wedding, recently tracked down Komuro in New York. He was shown sporting a ponytail, a detail that has caused an&nbsp;uproar among some Japanese users of Twitter.

Media&nbsp;have said the couple plan to live in the United States. Under&nbsp;Japan's&nbsp;males-only royal succession law, female members of the imperial family lose their status on marrying commoners.

Japan's Princess Mako is set to forego a one-off million-dollar payment for giving up her royal status to wed a college classmate, media said on Saturday, clearing the way for a marriage delayed for years by controversy over her fiance.

Japan's Princess Mako is set to forego a one-off million-dollar payment for giving up her royal status to wed a college classmate, media said on Saturday, clearing the way for a marriage delayed for years by controversy over her fiance. The 29-year-old grand-daughter of then-Emperor Akihito and her former college classmate, Kei Komuro, announced their engagement in 2017. But the marriage was put off after reports of a financial dispute between Komuro's mother and her former fiance. Also read | Swiss to vote on allowing same-sex marriage in referendum The government is set to agree that the princess forego the payment, worth up to 150 million yen for royals giving up their status to marry commoners, amid public criticism over her fiance, public broadcaster NHK and others said. NHK said the wedding date may be announced in October. Officials of the Imperial Household Agency were not immediately available to comment. A Japanese broadcaster, anticipating an imminent wedding, recently tracked down Komuro in New York. He was shown sporting a ponytail, a detail that has caused an uproar among some Japanese users of Twitter. Media have said the couple plan to live in the United States. Under Japan's males-only royal succession law, female members of the imperial family lose their status on marrying commoners.

Japan's Princess Mako to give up one-off payment in controversial marriage: Media

During the Quad leaders’ summit, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga&nbsp;welcomed the establishment of the AUKUS deal to provide nuclear submarines to Australia, a Japanese government official reportedly said.

Answering whether the trilateral partnership between Australia, the UK and the United States was discussed during the meeting on Friday, Japan's foreign press secretary, Tomoyuki Yoshida was quoted by Reuters as saying, “Prime Minister Suga welcomed the initiative of the establishment of the security partnership forged by the three countries ... which is taking an important role for the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region.”

The leaders of Australia, India, Japan and the United States met in Washington on Friday to discuss regional security, Covid, climate change and other issues.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-joint-statement-underlines-need-for-open-indo-pacific-undaunted-by-coercion-415748">Quad joint statement underlines need for open Indo-Pacific 'undaunted by coercion'</a>

The three-way strategic defence alliance announced by Australia, the UK and the US includes building a class of nuclear-propelled submarines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-set-to-address-unga-heres-what-you-can-expect-415827">Indian PM Narendra Modi set to address UNGA. Here's what you can expect</a>

As part of the deal, Australia will cancel a contract with France to buy diesel-electric French submarines and acquire US nuclear-powered vessels instead.

The deal angered the French government, saying that it felt betrayed by the deal. Consequently, France recalled its ambassadors to the United States and Australia to protest what the French said amounted to a “stab in the back” by allies.

In a phone call Friday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the issue. Johnson reportedly promised their countries would cooperate closely around the world.

The AUKUS alliance also has angered China because it is focused on the Indo-Pacific region, where the rise of China is seen as an increasing threat.

(With inputs from agencies)

During the Quad leaders’ summit, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga welcomed the establishment of the AUKUS deal to provide nuclear submarines to Australia, a Japanese government official reportedly said.

During the Quad leaders’ summit, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga welcomed the establishment of the AUKUS deal to provide nuclear submarines to Australia, a Japanese government official reportedly said. Answering whether the trilateral partnership between Australia, the UK and the United States was discussed during the meeting on Friday, Japan's foreign press secretary, Tomoyuki Yoshida was quoted by Reuters as saying, “Prime Minister Suga welcomed the initiative of the establishment of the security partnership forged by the three countries ... which is taking an important role for the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region.” The leaders of Australia, India, Japan and the United States met in Washington on Friday to discuss regional security, Covid, climate change and other issues. Also read | Quad joint statement underlines need for open Indo-Pacific 'undaunted by coercion' The three-way strategic defence alliance announced by Australia, the UK and the US includes building a class of nuclear-propelled submarines. Also read | Indian PM Narendra Modi set to address UNGA. Here's what you can expect As part of the deal, Australia will cancel a contract with France to buy diesel-electric French submarines and acquire US nuclear-powered vessels instead. The deal angered the French government, saying that it felt betrayed by the deal. Consequently, France recalled its ambassadors to the United States and Australia to protest what the French said amounted to a “stab in the back” by allies. In a phone call Friday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the issue. Johnson reportedly promised their countries would cooperate closely around the world. The AUKUS alliance also has angered China because it is focused on the Indo-Pacific region, where the rise of China is seen as an increasing threat. (With inputs from agencies)

At Quad leaders’ summit, Japanese PM welcomed AUKUS deal: Official

WION is constantly tracking all updates of the first in-person QUAD summit. What has the historic meeting achieved? Palki Sharma shares her insights on it

WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma shares her insights on historic QUAD summit

Prime Minister of Japan Yoshihide Suga while addressing to 76th edition at UNGA said that Japan has provided nations with 23 million doses of vaccines. Watch this report for more details.

PM Suga: Japan provided nations with 23 million doses of vaccines

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga speaks at 76th U.N. General Assembly. 'There are many challenges that are confronting us climate change, economic recovery and competition with authoritarianism, it all requires our collective efforts, in particular covid which has inflicted unprecedent crisis.'

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga speaks at 76th U.N. General Assembly | WION-USA Direct

In his speech to the United Nations General Assembly in 2021, Japanese Prime Minister Suga stated that we will monitor the Taliban's actions rather than their words.

Regarding the region's security situation, he also stated, "I sincerely hope that North Korea will work on diplomatic dialogue."&nbsp;

He also called for the start of meaningful negotiations for UN Security Council reforms and said his country is still actively involved in supporting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific area.

"The importance of a more peaceful international community must be understood.Japan will continue to work toward peace, " he said.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga reaffirmed Japan's commitment to human security and universal health coverage, declaring that his country is resolved to lead worldwide efforts to eradicate COVID-19.

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"Save as many lives as possible and leave no one's health behind" 
 
Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga (<a href="https://twitter.com/sugawitter?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sugawitter</a>) shares Japan's commitment to upholding human security and universal health coverage, says his country is determined to lead the global efforts to end <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a> <a href="https://t.co/Nuo4e4oOo1">pic.twitter.com/Nuo4e4oOo1</a>
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"Despite the fact that humanity has been through a lot, Tokyo 2020 has proven to be a global symbol.We now have to figure out how to stop the pandemic.As a response to the impending threat of climate change, Japan plans to cut global emissions by half by 2050, with a goal of zero emissions, " he said.

"Japan will take the lead in promoting free and fair trade.Japan will make a positive contribution to the UN and will work with ASEAN to promote free trade, " Japan's PM said.

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Japanese Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/sugawitter?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sugawitter</a>, in his <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA2021</a> speech, calls for the launch of concrete negotiations for the reforms of the UN Security Council, says his country continues to actively engage to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region <a href="https://t.co/mTlzlPG7kR">pic.twitter.com/mTlzlPG7kR</a>
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"To assist in the realisation of a free, fair, and secure internet, Japan will give capacity building assistance to ASEAN and other states.It is critical for all countries to adhere to arms control.As the only country to be stuck by atomic weapons, we will work for a world free of nuclear weapons. "

In a statement about Myanmar's circumstances, he stressed that Japan will make every effort to support Myanmar's people's yearning for democratisation and human rights protection.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In his speech to the United Nations General Assembly in 2021, Japanese Prime Minister Suga stated that we will monitor the Taliban's actions rather than their words.

In his speech to the United Nations General Assembly in 2021, Japanese Prime Minister Suga stated that we will monitor the Taliban's actions rather than their words. Regarding the region's security situation, he also stated, "I sincerely hope that North Korea will work on diplomatic dialogue." He also called for the start of meaningful negotiations for UN Security Council reforms and said his country is still actively involved in supporting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific area. "The importance of a more peaceful international community must be understood.Japan will continue to work toward peace, " he said. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga reaffirmed Japan's commitment to human security and universal health coverage, declaring that his country is resolved to lead worldwide efforts to eradicate COVID-19. "Save as many lives as possible and leave no one's health behind" Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga (@sugawitter) shares Japan's commitment to upholding human security and universal health coverage, says his country is determined to lead the global efforts to end #Covid19 pic.twitter.com/Nuo4e4oOo1 — WION (@WIONews) September 24, 2021 × "Despite the fact that humanity has been through a lot, Tokyo 2020 has proven to be a global symbol.We now have to figure out how to stop the pandemic.As a response to the impending threat of climate change, Japan plans to cut global emissions by half by 2050, with a goal of zero emissions, " he said. "Japan will take the lead in promoting free and fair trade.Japan will make a positive contribution to the UN and will work with ASEAN to promote free trade, " Japan's PM said. Japanese Prime Minister @Sugawitter, in his #UNGA2021 speech, calls for the launch of concrete negotiations for the reforms of the UN Security Council, says his country continues to actively engage to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region pic.twitter.com/mTlzlPG7kR — WION (@WIONews) September 24, 2021 × "To assist in the realisation of a free, fair, and secure internet, Japan will give capacity building assistance to ASEAN and other states.It is critical for all countries to adhere to arms control.As the only country to be stuck by atomic weapons, we will work for a world free of nuclear weapons. " In a statement about Myanmar's circumstances, he stressed that Japan will make every effort to support Myanmar's people's yearning for democratisation and human rights protection. (With inputs from agencies)

We will monitor actions, not the words of the Taliban: Japan's PM

India, Australia, Japan and the United States preparing to participate in the first in-person Quad leaders' summit in Washington on Friday (September 24), however, furious China has criticised the grouping.

India, Australia, Japan and the United States preparing to participate in the first in-person Quad leaders' summit in Washington on Friday (September 24), however, furious China has criticised the grouping. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterparts Scott Morrison of Australia and Yoshihide Suga of Japan arrived in the American capital at the invitation of US President Joe Biden to discuss the Coronavirus pandemic, climate change, economic cooperation and other global issues. Although China is not officially on the agenda, but political analysts have suggested that leaders might address Beijing's aggressive behaviour in the South China Sea, free Indo-Pacific freedom of navigation, etc. ALSO READ | COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad On being asked for China's reaction on the Quad summit, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told the media that the quadrilateral grouping should not target any third country and its interests. "China always believes that any regional cooperation mechanism should not target a third party or harm its interests. Seeking exclusive closed cliques against a third country runs against the trend of the times and aspiration of countries in the region. It will find no support," he said. On China's claims in the South China Sea, Zhao said: "China is a builder of world peace, contributor of global development and upholder of world order". "The growth of China means the growth for peace and stability in the world and China's contribution to peace, stability and development in Asia Pacific is therefore all to see." "Relevant countries should do more that is conducive to solidarity and cooperation with the four countries in the region," he added. ALSO READ | US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla × Earlier in March, President Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in the virtual format that vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion, sending a subtle message to China. Beijing claims almost all of the 1.3 million square miles of the South China Sea as its sovereign territory. China has been building military bases on artificial islands in the region also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. (With inputs from agencies)

Furious China slams Quad ahead of grouping's first in-person summit in US

Today is the second day of PM Modi's US visit. He is set to hold a bilateral meet with US President Joe Biden and with Japan PM Suga. Listen in to Japan's Minister of Defence, Yasuhide Nakayama on PM Modi's bilateral talks with Japan PM Suga ahead of QUAD.

Japan's Minister, Yasuhide Nakayama speaks on PM Modi's bilateral talks with Japan PM Suga

Coronavirus pandemic, climate change, economic cooperation and Afghanistan are on agenda as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to participate in the first in-person Quad leaders' summit in Washington on Friday (September 24), hosted by US President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

The Quad consists of four countries: the United States, Australia, India, and Japan; and their respective leaders Joe Biden, Scott Morrison, Narendra Modi and Yoshihide Suga will discuss issues pertaining to security, economy, health and other global matters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-referred-to-pakistans-role-in-terrorism-during-meeting-with-pm-modi-shringla-415387">US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla</a>

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What's on the agenda?

During the crucial meeting, it is expected that the leaders will review the Quad Covid vaccine initiative and will review progress made since their first virtual summit on March 12, 2021, and discuss regional issues of shared interest.&nbsp;

The leaders are expected to exchange views on contemporary global issues such as critical and emerging technologies, connectivity and infrastructure, cyber security, maritime security, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, climate change and education.&nbsp;

Although China is not officially on the agenda, the leaders might address the free and open Indo-Pacific trade and freedom of navigation.&nbsp;

For the US, the Quad meeting marks another step to reviving an American focus on diplomatic efforts, following its dramatic exit from the 20-year Afghanistan war.&nbsp;

A US official has said that hosting the Quad fundamentally is a demonstration of the priority of engaging in the Indo-Pacific, including through new multilateral configurations designed to focus on 21st-century challenges.&nbsp;

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Ahead of the&nbsp;Quad summit, PM Modi met his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison, US Vice President Kamala Harris and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.

The Indian prime minister also held meetings with five global CEOs for potential investment in India.

Biden is scheduled to host PM Modi at the White House on September 24. This is going to be the first in-person meeting between the two leaders after Biden took over as the US President on January 20.

PM Modi's US visit will conclude on September 25 with an address at the United Nations General Assembly focusing on the pressing global challenges including the Covid&nbsp; pandemic, the need to combat terrorism, climate change, and other important issues.

(With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus pandemic, climate change, economic cooperation and Afghanistan are on agenda as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to participate in the first in-person Quad leaders' summit in Washington on Friday (September 24), hosted by US President Joe Biden.

Coronavirus pandemic, climate change, economic cooperation and Afghanistan are on agenda as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to participate in the first in-person Quad leaders' summit in Washington on Friday (September 24), hosted by US President Joe Biden. The Quad consists of four countries: the United States, Australia, India, and Japan; and their respective leaders Joe Biden, Scott Morrison, Narendra Modi and Yoshihide Suga will discuss issues pertaining to security, economy, health and other global matters. ALSO READ | US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla What's on the agenda? During the crucial meeting, it is expected that the leaders will review the Quad Covid vaccine initiative and will review progress made since their first virtual summit on March 12, 2021, and discuss regional issues of shared interest. The leaders are expected to exchange views on contemporary global issues such as critical and emerging technologies, connectivity and infrastructure, cyber security, maritime security, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, climate change and education. Although China is not officially on the agenda, the leaders might address the free and open Indo-Pacific trade and freedom of navigation. For the US, the Quad meeting marks another step to reviving an American focus on diplomatic efforts, following its dramatic exit from the 20-year Afghanistan war. A US official has said that hosting the Quad fundamentally is a demonstration of the priority of engaging in the Indo-Pacific, including through new multilateral configurations designed to focus on 21st-century challenges. × Ahead of the Quad summit, PM Modi met his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison, US Vice President Kamala Harris and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga. The Indian prime minister also held meetings with five global CEOs for potential investment in India. Biden is scheduled to host PM Modi at the White House on September 24. This is going to be the first in-person meeting between the two leaders after Biden took over as the US President on January 20. PM Modi's US visit will conclude on September 25 with an address at the United Nations General Assembly focusing on the pressing global challenges including the Covid pandemic, the need to combat terrorism, climate change, and other important issues. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad

Honda Motor has said its car factories in Japan have been operating at 40 percent of capacity in August and September. It is because of shortages of semiconductors and other components which was caused by COVID-19 Pandemic. Japanese auto major also said production in early October should rebound to 70 of capacity though it also added that company is doing whatever it can to minimize impact on production.

World Business Watch: Japan's Honda Motor Company hit hard by chip crisis

Guinness World Records has certified two Japanese sisters to be world's oldest living identical twins. The twins are aged 107 years and 330 days.

The announcement coincided with Respect for the Aged Day which is a national holiday in Japan.

Sisters Umeno Sumiyama and Koume Kodama were born on Shodoshima island in western Japan on Nov. 5, 1913, as the third and fourth of 11 siblings.

On September 1, the sisters broke previous record of 107 years and 175 days which was previously set by famous Japanese twin sisters Kin Narita and Gin Kanie.

Japan is world's fastest aging nation. About 29 per cent of the population of 125 million in Japan are 65 years or older. About 86,510 of them are centenarians -- half of whom turned 100 this year.

Sumiyama and Kodama were separated after finishing elementary school, when Kodama was sent to work as a maid in Oita on Japan's southern main island of Kyushu. She later married there, while Sumiyama remained on the island they grew up on and had her own family.

The sisters later recalled their difficult younger days. Growing up, they said they were targets of bullying because of prejudice against children of multiple births in Japan.

Busy with their own lives for decades, the sisters rarely met until they turned 70, when they started making pilgrimages together to some of the 88 Shikoku temples and enjoyed being reconnected.

Their families told Guinness World Records that the sisters often joked about outliving the earlier record holders, affectionately known as 'Kin-san, Gin-san', who attained idol-like status in the late 1990s for both their age and humour.

Due to anti-coronavirus measures, the certificates for their new record were mailed to the separate nursing homes where they now live, and Sumiyama accepted hers with tears of happiness, according to Guinness.

(With inputs from agencies)

Guinness World Records has certified two Japanese sisters to be world's oldest living identical twins. The twins are aged 107 years and 330 days. The announcement coincided with Respect for the Aged Day which is a national holiday in Japan.

Guinness World Records has certified two Japanese sisters to be world's oldest living identical twins. The twins are aged 107 years and 330 days. The announcement coincided with Respect for the Aged Day which is a national holiday in Japan. Sisters Umeno Sumiyama and Koume Kodama were born on Shodoshima island in western Japan on Nov. 5, 1913, as the third and fourth of 11 siblings. On September 1, the sisters broke previous record of 107 years and 175 days which was previously set by famous Japanese twin sisters Kin Narita and Gin Kanie. Japan is world's fastest aging nation. About 29 per cent of the population of 125 million in Japan are 65 years or older. About 86,510 of them are centenarians -- half of whom turned 100 this year. Sumiyama and Kodama were separated after finishing elementary school, when Kodama was sent to work as a maid in Oita on Japan's southern main island of Kyushu. She later married there, while Sumiyama remained on the island they grew up on and had her own family. The sisters later recalled their difficult younger days. Growing up, they said they were targets of bullying because of prejudice against children of multiple births in Japan. Busy with their own lives for decades, the sisters rarely met until they turned 70, when they started making pilgrimages together to some of the 88 Shikoku temples and enjoyed being reconnected. Their families told Guinness World Records that the sisters often joked about outliving the earlier record holders, affectionately known as 'Kin-san, Gin-san', who attained idol-like status in the late 1990s for both their age and humour. Due to anti-coronavirus measures, the certificates for their new record were mailed to the separate nursing homes where they now live, and Sumiyama accepted hers with tears of happiness, according to Guinness. (With inputs from agencies)

Guinness certifies 107-year-old siblings from Japan as world's oldest twins

We're in a sign that corporate spending is perking up despite a wider hit to the economy from the pandemic of Coronavirus. Japan's core machinery orders have risen in July after a dip.

World Business Watch: Japan's machinery orders rebound in sign of capex recovery

The White House on Monday announced that the first in-person Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan's leaders' summit will take place on September 24 in Washington. The summit marks a major milestone and coming of age for the grouping which has been in works for some time now. For the summit, US President Joe Biden will be hosting Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga and Indian PM Narendra Modi.

A White House statement said, "The Biden-Harris Administration has made elevating the Quad a priority, as seen through the first-ever Quad Leaders-level engagement in March, which was virtual, and now this Summit, which will be in-person".&nbsp;

March 12th saw the first Quad summit, but that happened virtually amid the Covid pandemic. The key outcome of the summit was Quad Covid vaccine initiative. Quad vaccine initiative will see Covid vaccines developed in the US being manufactured in India. This will be financed by Japan and US and supported by Australia.

The White House statement highlighted that "hosting the leaders of the Quad demonstrates the Biden-Harris Administration’s priority of engaging in the Indo-Pacific, including through new multilateral configurations to meet the challenges of the 21st century." Indo-Pacific as a vision is being back by India and US among other countries in the region. Many countries in Europe have also issued their papers on the visions and how to support it.

The statement pointed that the focus of the summit will be on "deepening our ties and advancing practical cooperation" on areas such as "combatting COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, partnering on emerging technologies and cyberspace, and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific." Quad first came into existence after the 2004 tsunami and saw some formalization in 2007. At that time Australia had issues. Since 2019, Quad has had regular conversations at the foreign ministers' level.

The announcement by White House confirms Indian PM Modi's US visit. He is expected to hold bilateral talks with US President Biden on September 23, the first in-person meet between the 2 leaders since the change of guard in Washington. On 25th he will be travelling to New York for the United Nations General Assembly. During his address he will be focusing on UN reforms, climate change, Covid crisis and vaccines, counter-terror and some references can be expected on Afghanistan as well.

The White House on Monday announced that the first in-person Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan's leaders' summit will take place on September 24 in Washington.

The White House on Monday announced that the first in-person Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan's leaders' summit will take place on September 24 in Washington. The summit marks a major milestone and coming of age for the grouping which has been in works for some time now. For the summit, US President Joe Biden will be hosting Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga and Indian PM Narendra Modi. A White House statement said, "The Biden-Harris Administration has made elevating the Quad a priority, as seen through the first-ever Quad Leaders-level engagement in March, which was virtual, and now this Summit, which will be in-person". March 12th saw the first Quad summit, but that happened virtually amid the Covid pandemic. The key outcome of the summit was Quad Covid vaccine initiative. Quad vaccine initiative will see Covid vaccines developed in the US being manufactured in India. This will be financed by Japan and US and supported by Australia. The White House statement highlighted that "hosting the leaders of the Quad demonstrates the Biden-Harris Administration’s priority of engaging in the Indo-Pacific, including through new multilateral configurations to meet the challenges of the 21st century." Indo-Pacific as a vision is being back by India and US among other countries in the region. Many countries in Europe have also issued their papers on the visions and how to support it. The statement pointed that the focus of the summit will be on "deepening our ties and advancing practical cooperation" on areas such as "combatting COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, partnering on emerging technologies and cyberspace, and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific." Quad first came into existence after the 2004 tsunami and saw some formalization in 2007. At that time Australia had issues. Since 2019, Quad has had regular conversations at the foreign ministers' level. The announcement by White House confirms Indian PM Modi's US visit. He is expected to hold bilateral talks with US President Biden on September 23, the first in-person meet between the 2 leaders since the change of guard in Washington. On 25th he will be travelling to New York for the United Nations General Assembly. During his address he will be focusing on UN reforms, climate change, Covid crisis and vaccines, counter-terror and some references can be expected on Afghanistan as well.

First in person Quad leaders' Summit on September 24: White House

Japan's wholesale inflation hovered near a 13-year high in August as raw material imports continued to rise on solid global demand, putting pressure on companies to pass on higher costs to households.

World Business Watch: Japan's wholesale inflation hovers near 13-year high as material costs rise

Japan and Vietnam have signed a defence transfer deal amid worries about China's growing military influence in the region. Japan's Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi and his Vietnamese counterpart Phan Van Giang also planned to deepen defence ties through high‑level engagement and multilateral cooperation.

Japan, Vietnam sign defence transfer deal amid tensions with China

Japan: PM hopeful voices concern over china's assertiveness John Kerry hails India's clean energy initiative U.S: Indians could jump the green card queue

WION Live Broadcast: N Korea Missile Test 'threat To Neighbours'

Japan, the land of anime and manga which enjoys great readership all over the world, will be getting its first high school “manga studies” department in the country, local authorities announced on Monday.

The department is expected to come up at Kumamoto Prefectural Takamori High School in the town of Takamori as early as spring 2023, the Kumamoto Prefectural Board of Education said.

The move is aimed to revitalize the school by tapping both the public and private sectors to give students the opportunity to learn directly from industry experts, including professional manga artists.

Manga—commonly referred to as comics all over the world—are a part of Japanese popular culture, constituting a large market&nbsp;worth almost 613 billion Japanese yen in 2020.

Manga is a type of comic specifically produced in Japan which follows a certain style that was developed in the country as a mixture of Japanese and foreign influences.&nbsp;

According to the prefectural education board, there are already university departments and special high school courses where students can study manga to an expert level, but establishing an entire high school department dedicated to the craft is a first in Japan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/record-breaking-japans-anime-film-demon-slayer-lands-in-us-cinemas-366564">Record-breaking Japan's anime film 'Demon Slayer' lands in U.S. cinemas</a>

Under a partnership agreement with Tokyo-based manga publisher Coamix Co., manga artists and editors will teach drawing techniques, manga knowledge, and other facets of the industry.

During the partnership agreement signing ceremony held at the Kumamoto Prefectural Government headquarters on September 8, Coamix board member Shuichi Mochida said, “We'd like to lay out a framework under which students can make their professional debut while attending the school.”

Prefectural education board head Yoichi Koga added, “We'll proceed with the preparations so that it (the new department) can become a model for enhancing the appeal of prefectural high schools.”

According to an estimate, France represents about 40% of the European manga market published in the country. In the United States, manga comprises a small (but growing) industry.

Apart from the US and Europe, manga reportedly enjoys great readership in other English-speaking nations like Canada, Australia and New Zealand with manga being quite popular in Australia compared to other English speaking countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan, the land of anime and manga which enjoys great readership all over the world, will be getting its first high school “manga studies” department in the country, local authorities announced on Monday.

Japan, the land of anime and manga which enjoys great readership all over the world, will be getting its first high school “manga studies” department in the country, local authorities announced on Monday. The department is expected to come up at Kumamoto Prefectural Takamori High School in the town of Takamori as early as spring 2023, the Kumamoto Prefectural Board of Education said. The move is aimed to revitalize the school by tapping both the public and private sectors to give students the opportunity to learn directly from industry experts, including professional manga artists. Manga—commonly referred to as comics all over the world—are a part of Japanese popular culture, constituting a large market worth almost 613 billion Japanese yen in 2020. Manga is a type of comic specifically produced in Japan which follows a certain style that was developed in the country as a mixture of Japanese and foreign influences. According to the prefectural education board, there are already university departments and special high school courses where students can study manga to an expert level, but establishing an entire high school department dedicated to the craft is a first in Japan. Also read | Record-breaking Japan's anime film 'Demon Slayer' lands in U.S. cinemas Under a partnership agreement with Tokyo-based manga publisher Coamix Co., manga artists and editors will teach drawing techniques, manga knowledge, and other facets of the industry. During the partnership agreement signing ceremony held at the Kumamoto Prefectural Government headquarters on September 8, Coamix board member Shuichi Mochida said, “We'd like to lay out a framework under which students can make their professional debut while attending the school.” Prefectural education board head Yoichi Koga added, “We'll proceed with the preparations so that it (the new department) can become a model for enhancing the appeal of prefectural high schools.” According to an estimate, France represents about 40% of the European manga market published in the country. In the United States, manga comprises a small (but growing) industry. Apart from the US and Europe, manga reportedly enjoys great readership in other English-speaking nations like Canada, Australia and New Zealand with manga being quite popular in Australia compared to other English speaking countries. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan to get its 1st high school ‘manga studies’ department, to start classes by 2023

Japan's minister in charge of vaccines, Taro Kono, led a public opinion poll on who should succeed Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga as head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

Kono had 27 per cent&nbsp;support in the poll by the Nikkei newspaper and TV Tokyo that asked who would be "the right person" to lead the party and become the next prime minister.

The results of the September&nbsp;9-11 poll were released on Saturday.

Former LDP Secretary-General Shigeru Ishiba was next with 17 per cent, and ex-policy chief Fumio Kishida was third with 14 per cent. Former Interior Minister Sanae Takaichi was fifth with 7 per cent.

Have a look |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/race-for-new-leader-begins-in-japan-as-struggling-pm-suga-steps-down-410458">Race for new leader begins in Japan as struggling PM Suga steps down</a>

Kono, who also serves as minister of administrative reform, announced his candidacy on Friday, the third to make his intention official after Kishida and Takaichi.

Ishiba may not run for the party's leadership and instead will likely support another candidate, the Jiji news service said Saturday, citing sources close to him.

Suga, in a surprise move, said on September 3 he would step down, marking an end to a one-year tenure that was marred by plunging public support and dissatisfaction with his coronavirus response.

That set the stage for a September 29 leadership vote among grassroots LDP members and lawmakers. The winner is virtually assured the premiership because the LDP has a majority in parliament's lower house.

Following the LDP leadership vote, Japan will likely hold a general election in the first half of November, Kyodo reported citing ruling party lawmakers.

The Nikkei/TV Tokyo poll follows earlier ones showing strong public support for Kono, 58, to succeed Suga.

Japan's minister in charge of vaccines, Taro Kono, led a public opinion poll on who should succeed Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga as head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

Japan's minister in charge of vaccines, Taro Kono, led a public opinion poll on who should succeed Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga as head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. Kono had 27 per cent support in the poll by the Nikkei newspaper and TV Tokyo that asked who would be "the right person" to lead the party and become the next prime minister. The results of the September 9-11 poll were released on Saturday. Former LDP Secretary-General Shigeru Ishiba was next with 17 per cent, and ex-policy chief Fumio Kishida was third with 14 per cent. Former Interior Minister Sanae Takaichi was fifth with 7 per cent. Have a look | Race for new leader begins in Japan as struggling PM Suga steps down Kono, who also serves as minister of administrative reform, announced his candidacy on Friday, the third to make his intention official after Kishida and Takaichi. Ishiba may not run for the party's leadership and instead will likely support another candidate, the Jiji news service said Saturday, citing sources close to him. Suga, in a surprise move, said on September 3 he would step down, marking an end to a one-year tenure that was marred by plunging public support and dissatisfaction with his coronavirus response. That set the stage for a September 29 leadership vote among grassroots LDP members and lawmakers. The winner is virtually assured the premiership because the LDP has a majority in parliament's lower house. Following the LDP leadership vote, Japan will likely hold a general election in the first half of November, Kyodo reported citing ruling party lawmakers. The Nikkei/TV Tokyo poll follows earlier ones showing strong public support for Kono, 58, to succeed Suga.

Japan's vaccines minister Kono leads opinion poll on succeeding Suga

In the backdrop of China’s growing assertiveness in the South China seas, Japan and Vietnam signed a new defence deal for the transfer of Japanese-made defence equipment and technology to Hanoi.

The accord was inked in Hanoi on Saturday during Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi’s first trip overseas after assuming the post last year.

Japan will speed up talks with Vietnam to sell Self-Defence Forces’ vessels, Kishi said in an online press conference, following a meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart Phan Van Giang.

Vietnam, one of the key members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is reportedly the 11th country to sign such an agreement with Japan, at a time when China growing military influence in the Southeast Asian region.

Vietnam has territorial disputes with China over the Spratly and Paracel island groups in the South China Sea.

Watch

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Japan and China are also embroiled in a territorial dispute, with Tokyo regularly protesting against the Chinese coastguard’s presence in the East China Sea near the Japanese-controlled Senkaku islands, which Beijing also claims and calls Diaoyu.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-a-stronger-military-presence-in-asia-to-tackle-china-japan-urges-european-nations-392843">Have a stronger military presence in Asia to tackle China: Japan urges European nations</a>

Japanese officials say Chinese vessels routinely violate Japanese territorial waters around the islands, sometimes threatening fishing boats.

Vietnam has strong defence ties with Russia and relies on it for most of its equipment, including submarines and fighter jets, as it was part of the former Communist bloc during the Cold War.

Tokyo is also looking to expand military cooperation beyond its longtime ally, the United States, and has signed similar agreements with the United Kingdom, Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia.

“The accord will strengthen Japan’s defence industrial base and is expected to contribute to the country's security," Kishi was quoted by local news outlets in Hanoi.

He added they agreed to work together for a rules-based order and reaffirmed the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as to abide by international law, in a veiled counter against Beijing.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the backdrop of China’s growing assertiveness in the South China seas, Japan and Vietnam signed a new defence deal for the transfer of Japanese-made defence equipment and technology to Hanoi.

In the backdrop of China’s growing assertiveness in the South China seas, Japan and Vietnam signed a new defence deal for the transfer of Japanese-made defence equipment and technology to Hanoi. The accord was inked in Hanoi on Saturday during Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi’s first trip overseas after assuming the post last year. Japan will speed up talks with Vietnam to sell Self-Defence Forces’ vessels, Kishi said in an online press conference, following a meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart Phan Van Giang. Vietnam, one of the key members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is reportedly the 11th country to sign such an agreement with Japan, at a time when China growing military influence in the Southeast Asian region. Vietnam has territorial disputes with China over the Spratly and Paracel island groups in the South China Sea. Watch Japan and China are also embroiled in a territorial dispute, with Tokyo regularly protesting against the Chinese coastguard’s presence in the East China Sea near the Japanese-controlled Senkaku islands, which Beijing also claims and calls Diaoyu. Also read | Have a stronger military presence in Asia to tackle China: Japan urges European nations Japanese officials say Chinese vessels routinely violate Japanese territorial waters around the islands, sometimes threatening fishing boats. Vietnam has strong defence ties with Russia and relies on it for most of its equipment, including submarines and fighter jets, as it was part of the former Communist bloc during the Cold War. Tokyo is also looking to expand military cooperation beyond its longtime ally, the United States, and has signed similar agreements with the United Kingdom, Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia. “The accord will strengthen Japan’s defence industrial base and is expected to contribute to the country's security," Kishi was quoted by local news outlets in Hanoi. He added they agreed to work together for a rules-based order and reaffirmed the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as to abide by international law, in a veiled counter against Beijing. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan, Vietnam ink defence transfer deal amid China’s growing assertiveness in disputed regions

The first in-person summit of the leaders of the Quad countries is likely to take place in Washington on September 24 with a focus to chart a new roadmap for expanding the overall cooperation in diverse areas, diplomatic sources said on Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga are expected to deliberate extensively to give a new momentum to the functioning of the Quad at the summit, they said.

Modi is likely to travel to Washington during which he is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly in New York and hold a bilateral meeting with President Biden besides participating in the Quad Summit on September 24, according to sources.

However, there is no official announcement about Modi's visit as well as on the Quad summit from the Indian side.

India and the US held a series of meetings as part of preparations for Modi's visit to the US and it is learnt that the issue also figured during Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's recent visit to Washington.

The US has been looking at convening the in-person summit of the leaders of Quad to boost practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region as well as to send a strong signal about Washington's commitment to the grouping.

In March, President Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in the virtual format that vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion, sending a subtle message to China.

The last time Modi visited the US was in September 2019 when he and then US President Donald Trump addressed the Howdy Modi event in Houston.

The first in-person summit of the leaders of the Quad countries is likely to take place in Washington on September 24 with a focus to chart a new roadmap for expanding the overall cooperation in diverse areas, diplomatic sources said on Thursday.

The first in-person summit of the leaders of the Quad countries is likely to take place in Washington on September 24 with a focus to chart a new roadmap for expanding the overall cooperation in diverse areas, diplomatic sources said on Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga are expected to deliberate extensively to give a new momentum to the functioning of the Quad at the summit, they said. Modi is likely to travel to Washington during which he is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly in New York and hold a bilateral meeting with President Biden besides participating in the Quad Summit on September 24, according to sources. However, there is no official announcement about Modi's visit as well as on the Quad summit from the Indian side. India and the US held a series of meetings as part of preparations for Modi's visit to the US and it is learnt that the issue also figured during Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's recent visit to Washington. The US has been looking at convening the in-person summit of the leaders of Quad to boost practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region as well as to send a strong signal about Washington's commitment to the grouping. In March, President Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in the virtual format that vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion, sending a subtle message to China. The last time Modi visited the US was in September 2019 when he and then US President Donald Trump addressed the Howdy Modi event in Houston.

First in-person Quad summit likely in Washington on Sep 24: Diplomatic sources

A little after concluding the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, Japan has announced that Covid curbs will now be extended until the end of September for the capital city.

The government has decided to extend the restrictions to make sure that the spread of the virus does not become that bad that hospitals face an uncontrollable situation in the upcoming weeks and months.

Japan’s Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said the capital city Tokyo will stay under regulations. While the minister admitted that the situation is getting better, he also added that it is "still too early to lower our guard".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-japanese-pm-resigns-over-bungled-covid-response-410561">WATCH |</a>

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Tokyo is one of the main regions, along with 18 other areas which are being put under strict Covid restrictions. Osaka and Tokyo have been shifted to "priority measures" which means targeted restrictions will be implemented in these two cities.

Japan’s Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has urged the health experts and government officials to make sure that the government is ready with plans for October and the following months.

"We will be easing restrictions by using certificates of (COVID-19) vaccination and negative test results, and setting a path toward normalizing social and economic activities," he said.

This decision has come a little after Suga announced that he will soon be resigning from the post of Prime Minister and his priority will be controlling the spread of coronavirus and bringing Japan out of the Covid crisis.

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&nbsp;

A little after concluding the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, Japan has announced that Covid curbs will now be extended until the end of September for the capital city.

A little after concluding the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, Japan has announced that Covid curbs will now be extended until the end of September for the capital city. The government has decided to extend the restrictions to make sure that the spread of the virus does not become that bad that hospitals face an uncontrollable situation in the upcoming weeks and months. Japan’s Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said the capital city Tokyo will stay under regulations. While the minister admitted that the situation is getting better, he also added that it is "still too early to lower our guard". WATCH | Tokyo is one of the main regions, along with 18 other areas which are being put under strict Covid restrictions. Osaka and Tokyo have been shifted to "priority measures" which means targeted restrictions will be implemented in these two cities. Japan’s Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has urged the health experts and government officials to make sure that the government is ready with plans for October and the following months. "We will be easing restrictions by using certificates of (COVID-19) vaccination and negative test results, and setting a path toward normalizing social and economic activities," he said. This decision has come a little after Suga announced that he will soon be resigning from the post of Prime Minister and his priority will be controlling the spread of coronavirus and bringing Japan out of the Covid crisis.

Japan extends Covid curbs in Tokyo till September end

Japan’s economy grew faster than the initially estimated in the April-June quarter, although a resurgence in COVID-19 is undermining service-sector consumption and clouding the outlook.

Japan upgrades Q2 GDP, with help of solid expenditure

After getting a shot from one of three batches of Moderna vaccines identified as contaminated, a third man has died in Japan. Authorities say no causal link has yet been found. &nbsp;

After having his second shot on August 11, the 49-year-old man died the following day. The only known health issue of the man was an allergy to buckwheat, said the health ministry on Monday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch | Gravitas: Booster shot: Do we really need one?

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According to the ministry, it is yet to establish if the latest fatality was linked to the vaccine as it had said in the previous two deaths. &nbsp;

The three batches, which were manufactured under contract by Moderna in Spain, were found to have fragments of stainless steel. It had forced the recall of 1.63 million doses of the Moderna vaccine on August 26. &nbsp;

The shot, which the man had, came from the same batches. The company is yet to comment on the most recent fatality.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italys-life-expectancy-drops-amid-covid-19-battle-411304" hreflang="en">Italy's life expectancy drops amid COVID-19 battle</a>

Last week, it issued a joint statement with local distributor Takeda Pharmaceutical, saying, “The rare presence of stainless steel particles in the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine does not pose an undue risk to patient safety and it does not adversely affect the benefit/risk profile of the product.” &nbsp;

Last month, two men, who were in their 30s with no underlying health conditions, had died within days of getting their second dose of the Moderna vaccine.&nbsp;

After getting a shot from one of three batches of Moderna vaccines identified as contaminated, a third man has died in Japan. Authorities say no causal link has yet been found.

After getting a shot from one of three batches of Moderna vaccines identified as contaminated, a third man has died in Japan. Authorities say no causal link has yet been found. After having his second shot on August 11, the 49-year-old man died the following day. The only known health issue of the man was an allergy to buckwheat, said the health ministry on Monday. Watch | Gravitas: Booster shot: Do we really need one? × According to the ministry, it is yet to establish if the latest fatality was linked to the vaccine as it had said in the previous two deaths. The three batches, which were manufactured under contract by Moderna in Spain, were found to have fragments of stainless steel. It had forced the recall of 1.63 million doses of the Moderna vaccine on August 26. The shot, which the man had, came from the same batches. The company is yet to comment on the most recent fatality. Also Read: Italy's life expectancy drops amid COVID-19 battle Last week, it issued a joint statement with local distributor Takeda Pharmaceutical, saying, “The rare presence of stainless steel particles in the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine does not pose an undue risk to patient safety and it does not adversely affect the benefit/risk profile of the product.” Last month, two men, who were in their 30s with no underlying health conditions, had died within days of getting their second dose of the Moderna vaccine.

Moderna’s contaminated Covid vaccine may have led to third death in Japan

Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will be stepping down after his botched Covid response. Suga joins a long list of Japanese leaders who have resigned after a short stint. What explains their string of resignations? WION's Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Japanese PM resigns over bungled COVID response

Outgoing Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will back the popular minister in charge of Japan's vaccination rollout, Taro Kono, for the Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP) leadership race this month, reported Nippon News Network reported on Saturday.

The leader of the ruling party will replace Suga as the prime minister.

This comes in as Suga has announced that he will not run for re-election as party leader in a vote this month.

Earlier, domestic media had reported that Suga was to call a snap election but Suga had said he had no plans to do so.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-prime-minister-yoshihide-suga-set-to-resign-soon-will-not-run-for-re-election-410344">Also read | Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga set to resign soon; will not run for re-election</a>

Suga was struggling to shore up support and attract high-profile backers ahead of a leadership contest and a general election.

Former foreign minister Fumio Kishida has already thrown his hat in the ring, while several others have voiced interest in running in the race.

Kishida said on Saturday he would leave a national sales tax at its 10 per cent rate if elected as premier.

"I'm not thinking of touching the sales tax for the time being," Kishida told a Nippon News Network programme. "We then must consider Japan's finances from the standpoint of how to make use of the fruit of economic growth."

Outgoing Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will back the popular minister in charge of Japan's vaccination rollout, Taro Kono, for the Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP) leadership race this month, reported Nippon News Network reported on Saturday.

Outgoing Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will back the popular minister in charge of Japan's vaccination rollout, Taro Kono, for the Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP) leadership race this month, reported Nippon News Network reported on Saturday. The leader of the ruling party will replace Suga as the prime minister. This comes in as Suga has announced that he will not run for re-election as party leader in a vote this month. Earlier, domestic media had reported that Suga was to call a snap election but Suga had said he had no plans to do so. Also read | Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga set to resign soon; will not run for re-election Suga was struggling to shore up support and attract high-profile backers ahead of a leadership contest and a general election. Former foreign minister Fumio Kishida has already thrown his hat in the ring, while several others have voiced interest in running in the race. Kishida said on Saturday he would leave a national sales tax at its 10 per cent rate if elected as premier. "I'm not thinking of touching the sales tax for the time being," Kishida told a Nippon News Network programme. "We then must consider Japan's finances from the standpoint of how to make use of the fruit of economic growth."

Japan PM Suga to back vaccine minister Kono in LDP leadership race

After a year of premiership, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga will be stepping down by the end of this month setting the stage for a new premier slater to replace him.

Japan: Suga's resignation sets stage for New Prime Minister

With a violin bow fixed to her prosthetic arm, Manami Ito's short but breathtaking performance at the Tokyo Paralympics opening ceremony was the product of many years of determination.

Paralympian, nurse, musician: Manami Ito, Japan's show-stealing violinist

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will be stepping down by the end of this month, setting the stage for a new premier after a one-year tenure marred by an unpopular COVID-19 response and rapidly dwindling public support.

Yoshihide Suga to step down as Japan's prime minister

Japan's COVID vaccine drive has suffered a blow after reports of contamination in service of the Moderna vaccine.

Japan's COVID vaccine drive suffers blow

Japan has put on hold a batch of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine after a pharmacist saw what he claims to be black particles in one vial of the vaccine.

According to officials, the pharmacist found the black particles while checking for foreign substances before the vaccine’s use in Kanagawa Prefecture.

It comes less than a week after Japan suspended the use of about 1.63 million Moderna doses due to contamination.

More than 3,000 people had already received shots from the batch. The rest of the batch has now been put on hold.

Local media reports say there has been no evidence so far of any health hazards caused by the potentially contaminated vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-pauses-use-of-moderna-vaccine-batch-over-allergic-reactions-357470">California pauses use of Moderna vaccine batch over allergic reactions</a>

Takeda Pharmaceutical, which sells and distributes the vaccine in Japan, had just last week put three batches of the vaccine on hold after "foreign materials" were found in some doses of a batch of roughly 560,000 vials.

Spanish pharmaceutical firm Rovi, which bottles the vaccine, said in a statement that a manufacturing line in Spain could be the cause of the issue.

It added that it was conducting an investigation.

Japan is battling a surge in Covid cases while it hosts the Paralympic Games.

Local media reports say that Japan’s vaccination roll-out has been relatively slow, with just over 40% of Japanese people fully vaccinated and around 50% having received one dose.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan has put on hold a batch of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine after a pharmacist saw what he claims to be black particles in one vial of the vaccine. According to officials, the pharmacist found the black particles while checking for foreign substances before the vaccine’s use in Kanagawa Prefecture.

Japan has put on hold a batch of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine after a pharmacist saw what he claims to be black particles in one vial of the vaccine. According to officials, the pharmacist found the black particles while checking for foreign substances before the vaccine’s use in Kanagawa Prefecture. It comes less than a week after Japan suspended the use of about 1.63 million Moderna doses due to contamination. More than 3,000 people had already received shots from the batch. The rest of the batch has now been put on hold. Local media reports say there has been no evidence so far of any health hazards caused by the potentially contaminated vaccine. Also read | California pauses use of Moderna vaccine batch over allergic reactions Takeda Pharmaceutical, which sells and distributes the vaccine in Japan, had just last week put three batches of the vaccine on hold after "foreign materials" were found in some doses of a batch of roughly 560,000 vials. Spanish pharmaceutical firm Rovi, which bottles the vaccine, said in a statement that a manufacturing line in Spain could be the cause of the issue. It added that it was conducting an investigation. Japan is battling a surge in Covid cases while it hosts the Paralympic Games. Local media reports say that Japan’s vaccination roll-out has been relatively slow, with just over 40% of Japanese people fully vaccinated and around 50% having received one dose. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan finds "black substance" in Moderna vaccine, put holds on shots

Japan's Kanagawa prefecture said that several black particles in one Moderna vaccine vial were found upon checking for foreign substances before its use, and it has put the rest of the lot on hold.

Japan finds another Moderna vial suspected to contain foreign substance

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