Japan's inability to contain the Covid-19 pandemic means that plans to hold the Olympics in Tokyo should be reconsidered, health experts wrote in a commentary.

Tokyo Olympics must be reconsidered due to Japan's failure to contain pandemic

The war of words between China and Japan is escalating. It is playing out on two fronts. The first is the Senkaku Islands. This is a string of uninhabited islands claimed by both Beijing and&nbsp;Tokyo. China calls these island Diaoyu islands.

China's provocations haven't ended. Japan is determined to stop them. The second front is the Fukushima nuclear plant and Japan's decision to release radioactive water from the plant into the Ocean.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-preaches-japan-about-responsibility-377835/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

American allies like Taiwan and&nbsp;South Korea are vehemently opposing it. China sees this as an opportunity to further its own agenda.

In 1968, Japan established a defence identification zone over these islands. This was like an extra buffer to safeguard its territorial sovereignty.

In 2013, China declared its own defence identification zone. It overlaps Japan's.

China uses this zone to justify its expansionism. Under Chinese rules, any aircraft or vessel entering the zone must notify Beijing. Beijing's military adventurism worsened with the pandemic.

In March 2020, China's maritime militia damaged a Japanese naval ship.

In July 2020, Chinese vessels entered Japan's zone for the longest duration since 2012.

In September 2020, Chinese boats collided with Japanese patrolling vessels.

In October 2020, the Chinese Navy forced Japanese fishing boats to leave the area. And just last month, two Chinese ships again carried out an illegal intrusion near the Senkaku islands.

The provocations are endless.

There are growing concerns that China could step up armament and establish a military base on the islands. Adding to these concerns is China's coast guard law which came into force on February 1st. The law encourages China's coast guard to 'take all necessary measures including the use of weapons to stop the violation and eliminate the danger'. With this law, Xi Jinping has told his coast guard to be wolf warriors at sea and use force -- lethal force -- to assert Chinese interests.

Japan, along with the US, has expressed concerns over the law. As Yoshihide Suga heads to Washington on Friday, Chinese aggression, the new coast guard law and the Senkaku islands will be at&nbsp;top of the agenda.

"This will be our first in-person visit from a foreign leader in the Biden-Harris administration, reflecting the importance we place on our bilateral relationship with Japan, and our friendship and partnership with the Japanese people," said Jen Psaki, press secretary of the White House.

The talks might also feature a controversial topic; Japan's plan to release radioactive water from the wrecked Fukushima Daichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean.

Washington has backed Tokyo saying the release will be in accordance with nuclear safety standards. But American partners like South Korea and Taiwan are strongly opposing Japan's plan. Both nations with coastlines nearby say that the move poses a risk to the marine environment.

China is trying to make the most of this disagreement between the three democracies. Beijing is calling Japan irresponsible. Its own environmental recklessness notwithstanding.

"Yesterday, the China-South Korea maritime affairs dialogue and (cooperation) mechanism held its first meeting. Both sides urged japan to carefully and cautiously handle the Fukushima nuclear wastewater issue after ample consultation with international mechanisms and surrounding countries," said Zhao Lijian, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman.

The timing of this war of words is significant. US climate envoy John Kerry is in Shanghai to discuss climate action. By all means, China will use Japan's Fukushima water release plan as a bargaining chip in the negotiations.

The war of words between China and Japan is escalating. It is playing out on two fronts. The first is the Senkaku Islands. This is a string of uninhabited islands claimed by both Beijing and Tokyo.

The war of words between China and Japan is escalating. It is playing out on two fronts. The first is the Senkaku Islands. This is a string of uninhabited islands claimed by both Beijing and Tokyo. China calls these island Diaoyu islands. China's provocations haven't ended. Japan is determined to stop them. The second front is the Fukushima nuclear plant and Japan's decision to release radioactive water from the plant into the Ocean. American allies like Taiwan and South Korea are vehemently opposing it. China sees this as an opportunity to further its own agenda. In 1968, Japan established a defence identification zone over these islands. This was like an extra buffer to safeguard its territorial sovereignty. In 2013, China declared its own defence identification zone. It overlaps Japan's. China uses this zone to justify its expansionism. Under Chinese rules, any aircraft or vessel entering the zone must notify Beijing. Beijing's military adventurism worsened with the pandemic. In March 2020, China's maritime militia damaged a Japanese naval ship. In July 2020, Chinese vessels entered Japan's zone for the longest duration since 2012. In September 2020, Chinese boats collided with Japanese patrolling vessels. In October 2020, the Chinese Navy forced Japanese fishing boats to leave the area. And just last month, two Chinese ships again carried out an illegal intrusion near the Senkaku islands. The provocations are endless. There are growing concerns that China could step up armament and establish a military base on the islands. Adding to these concerns is China's coast guard law which came into force on February 1st. The law encourages China's coast guard to 'take all necessary measures including the use of weapons to stop the violation and eliminate the danger'. With this law, Xi Jinping has told his coast guard to be wolf warriors at sea and use force -- lethal force -- to assert Chinese interests. Japan, along with the US, has expressed concerns over the law. As Yoshihide Suga heads to Washington on Friday, Chinese aggression, the new coast guard law and the Senkaku islands will be at top of the agenda. "This will be our first in-person visit from a foreign leader in the Biden-Harris administration, reflecting the importance we place on our bilateral relationship with Japan, and our friendship and partnership with the Japanese people," said Jen Psaki, press secretary of the White House. The talks might also feature a controversial topic; Japan's plan to release radioactive water from the wrecked Fukushima Daichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. Washington has backed Tokyo saying the release will be in accordance with nuclear safety standards. But American partners like South Korea and Taiwan are strongly opposing Japan's plan. Both nations with coastlines nearby say that the move poses a risk to the marine environment. China is trying to make the most of this disagreement between the three democracies. Beijing is calling Japan irresponsible. Its own environmental recklessness notwithstanding. "Yesterday, the China-South Korea maritime affairs dialogue and (cooperation) mechanism held its first meeting. Both sides urged japan to carefully and cautiously handle the Fukushima nuclear wastewater issue after ample consultation with international mechanisms and surrounding countries," said Zhao Lijian, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman. The timing of this war of words is significant. US climate envoy John Kerry is in Shanghai to discuss climate action. By all means, China will use Japan's Fukushima water release plan as a bargaining chip in the negotiations.

War of words between Japan and China escalates

China is preaching Japan about 'responsibility' over the Fukushima water release plan. Meanwhile, Chinese incursions near the Senkaku islands haven't stopped. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: China preaches Japan about 'responsibility'

It's a busy week for the Biden Administration. The US President is attempting a balancing act by talking to China and its regional adversaries - Japan and Taiwan at the same time. Will the approach work? WION's Palki Sharma has the answers.

Gravitas: Joe Biden's new rules of engagement for China

The water is contaminated as it comes in contact with the fuel before leaking into damaged basements and tunnels, where it mixes with groundwater that flows through the site from hills above.

Japan plans to release contaminated Fukushima water into the ocean

A top member of Japanese ruling party official Toshihiro Nikai admitted that cancelling this year's Olympic Games remains an option due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Japanese officials says Tokyo Olympic could still be cancelled due to COVID-19

Japan will release treated radioactive water into the Pacific Ocean. Tokyo says the water will be filtered and diluted to safe levels first. But Japan's citizens and neighbours are opposing the plan. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: Japan to release treated radioactive water into the Pacific Ocean

Japan will release 1.25 million tons of treated wastewater contaminated by its Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant into the sea. But the local fishing industry has strongly opposed the move, as have China and South Korea.

Japan to release contaminated Fukushima water into sea

Things happen when the time is right, and in this case of a clock hit by Japan’s deadliest tsunami, the right time came after almost 10 years.

&nbsp;A clock that dates back to almost 100 years in Japan stopped working after the deadly tsunami and earthquake hit the northeast coast on March 11, 2011.

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During that earthquake, the&nbsp;clock hanging in the Fumonji temple in the Yamamoto region stopped ticking and was rescued by Bunshun Sakano. The clock has been in Sakano’s temple since then.

Sakano saved the clock and tried to clean it and make it work again. However, all attempts of the Buddhist priest were in vain.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/sports/olympics-difficult-after-virus-spikes-japan-medical-group-warns-377447">Olympics 'difficult' after virus spikes, Japan medical group warns</a>

Now, on February 13 of this year, another earthquake hit Japan — a little before the 10th anniversary of the disaster — which was described as an aftershock of the March 2011 disaster.

When Sakano went to check if any damages had occurred in the main hall, he heard the clock ticking.

The 58-year-old feels this is a sign of never giving up. "Maybe it's pushing me to move forward with new determination," Sakano told local media. “It’s like a sign of encouragement that the real restoration is yet to come."

The clock's manufacturer, however, feels it might have started again due to multiple reasons. "It's possible that the pendulum, which had stopped, started moving again with the shaking of the earthquake, or that dust that had built up inside came loose," a representative of Seiko told local media.

Things happen when the time is right, and in this case of a clock hit by Japan’s deadliest tsunami, the right time came after almost 10 years. A clock that dates back to almost 100 years in Japan stopped working after the deadly tsunami and earthquake hit the northeast coast on March 11, 2011.

Things happen when the time is right, and in this case of a clock hit by Japan’s deadliest tsunami, the right time came after almost 10 years. A clock that dates back to almost 100 years in Japan stopped working after the deadly tsunami and earthquake hit the northeast coast on March 11, 2011. Also read | Japanese firm iSpace to send UAE's lunar rover in 2022 During that earthquake, the clock hanging in the Fumonji temple in the Yamamoto region stopped ticking and was rescued by Bunshun Sakano. The clock has been in Sakano’s temple since then. Sakano saved the clock and tried to clean it and make it work again. However, all attempts of the Buddhist priest were in vain. Also read | Olympics 'difficult' after virus spikes, Japan medical group warns Now, on February 13 of this year, another earthquake hit Japan — a little before the 10th anniversary of the disaster — which was described as an aftershock of the March 2011 disaster. When Sakano went to check if any damages had occurred in the main hall, he heard the clock ticking. The 58-year-old feels this is a sign of never giving up. "Maybe it's pushing me to move forward with new determination," Sakano told local media. “It’s like a sign of encouragement that the real restoration is yet to come." The clock's manufacturer, however, feels it might have started again due to multiple reasons. "It's possible that the pendulum, which had stopped, started moving again with the shaking of the earthquake, or that dust that had built up inside came loose," a representative of Seiko told local media.

Keep moving: A clock went silent in Japan's tsunami, came back to life during aftershocks a decade later

Japan's government on Tuesday approved a plan to release more than one million tonnes of treated water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean, in a controversial decision that follows years of debate.

The move, more than a decade after the nuclear disaster, will deal another blow to the fishing industry in Fukushima, which has opposed such a step for years.

The work to release the water will begin in about two years, the government said, and the whole process is expected to take decades.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-japan-to-dump-radioactive-water-in-the-sea-335916/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"On the premise of strict compliance with regulatory standards that have been established, we select oceanic release," the government said in a statement after relevant ministers formalised the decision.

Japan's government argues that the release will be safe because the water is processed to remove almost all radioactive elements and will be diluted.

It has support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which says the release is similar to processes for disposing of wastewater from nuclear plants elsewhere in the world.

Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihide&nbsp;Suga&nbsp;told a ministerial meeting that disposing of the water was an "inevitable task" in the decades-long process of decommissioning the nuclear plant.

He said the release would happen only "after ensuring the safety levels of the water" and alongside measures to "prevent reputational damage".

Around 1.25 million tonnes of water has accumulated in tanks at the nuclear plant, which was crippled after going into meltdown following a tsunami in 2011.

It includes water used to cool the plant, as well as rain and groundwater that seeps in daily.

An extensive pumping and filtration system known as "ALPS (Advanced Liquid Processing System)" extracts tonnes of newly contaminated water each day and filters out most radioactive elements.

But local fishing communities fear releasing the water will undermine years of work to restore confidence in seafood from the region.

"They told us that they wouldn't release the water into the sea without the support of fishermen," Kanji Tachiya, who heads a local fisheries cooperative in Fukushima, told NHK ahead of the announcement.

"We can't back this move to break that promise and release the water into the sea unilaterally."

The decision comes about three months ahead of the postponed Olympic Games to be hosted by Tokyo, with some events planned as close as 60 km (35 miles) from the wrecked plant.

The decision also prompted regional opposition even before it was official, with South Korea's foreign minister on Monday expressing "serious regret".

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian urged Japan to "act in a responsible manner".

"To safeguard international public interests and Chinese people's health and safety, China has expressed grave concern to the Japanese side through the diplomatic channel," Zhao said Monday.

The disposal of contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi plant, run by Tokyo Electric Power, has proved a thorny problem for Japan as it pursues a decades-long decommissioning project.

Greenpeace slams decision

Around 140 cubic metres (5,000 cubic feet) of radioactive water was generated by the site every day in 2020 and storage space will run out by summer 2022.

Debate over how to handle the water has dragged on for years, with the government saying it wanted to win support from local communities and secure backing from the IAEA.

A government panel earlier endorsed either diluting the treated water and releasing it into the ocean or releasing it as vapour, and the IAEA says either option is acceptable.

"Releasing into the ocean is done elsewhere. It's not something new. There is no scandal here," IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said last year.

Either method would be "in line with well-established practices all around the world", he added.

Anti-nuclear activist group Greenpeace slammed Japan's government for having "once again failed the people of Fukushima".

"The cabinet's decision failed to protect the environment and neglected the large-scale opposition and concerns of the local Fukushima residents, as well as the neighbouring citizens around Japan," said climate and energy campaigner Kazue Suzuki in a statement.

The ALPS filtration process removes most radioactive elements from the water, but some remain, including tritium.

Experts say the element is only harmful to humans in large doses and with dilution the treated water poses no scientifically detectable risk.

(With inputs froma agencies)

Japan's government on Tuesday approved a plan to release more than one million tonnes of treated water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean, in a controversial decision that follows years of debate.

Japan's government on Tuesday approved a plan to release more than one million tonnes of treated water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean, in a controversial decision that follows years of debate. The move, more than a decade after the nuclear disaster, will deal another blow to the fishing industry in Fukushima, which has opposed such a step for years. The work to release the water will begin in about two years, the government said, and the whole process is expected to take decades. "On the premise of strict compliance with regulatory standards that have been established, we select oceanic release," the government said in a statement after relevant ministers formalised the decision. Japan's government argues that the release will be safe because the water is processed to remove almost all radioactive elements and will be diluted. It has support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which says the release is similar to processes for disposing of wastewater from nuclear plants elsewhere in the world. Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga told a ministerial meeting that disposing of the water was an "inevitable task" in the decades-long process of decommissioning the nuclear plant. He said the release would happen only "after ensuring the safety levels of the water" and alongside measures to "prevent reputational damage". Around 1.25 million tonnes of water has accumulated in tanks at the nuclear plant, which was crippled after going into meltdown following a tsunami in 2011. It includes water used to cool the plant, as well as rain and groundwater that seeps in daily. An extensive pumping and filtration system known as "ALPS (Advanced Liquid Processing System)" extracts tonnes of newly contaminated water each day and filters out most radioactive elements. But local fishing communities fear releasing the water will undermine years of work to restore confidence in seafood from the region. "They told us that they wouldn't release the water into the sea without the support of fishermen," Kanji Tachiya, who heads a local fisheries cooperative in Fukushima, told NHK ahead of the announcement. "We can't back this move to break that promise and release the water into the sea unilaterally." The decision comes about three months ahead of the postponed Olympic Games to be hosted by Tokyo, with some events planned as close as 60 km (35 miles) from the wrecked plant. The decision also prompted regional opposition even before it was official, with South Korea's foreign minister on Monday expressing "serious regret". Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian urged Japan to "act in a responsible manner". "To safeguard international public interests and Chinese people's health and safety, China has expressed grave concern to the Japanese side through the diplomatic channel," Zhao said Monday. The disposal of contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi plant, run by Tokyo Electric Power, has proved a thorny problem for Japan as it pursues a decades-long decommissioning project. Greenpeace slams decision Around 140 cubic metres (5,000 cubic feet) of radioactive water was generated by the site every day in 2020 and storage space will run out by summer 2022. Debate over how to handle the water has dragged on for years, with the government saying it wanted to win support from local communities and secure backing from the IAEA. A government panel earlier endorsed either diluting the treated water and releasing it into the ocean or releasing it as vapour, and the IAEA says either option is acceptable. "Releasing into the ocean is done elsewhere. It's not something new. There is no scandal here," IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said last year. Either method would be "in line with well-established practices all around the world", he added. Anti-nuclear activist group Greenpeace slammed Japan's government for having "once again failed the people of Fukushima". "The cabinet's decision failed to protect the environment and neglected the large-scale opposition and concerns of the local Fukushima residents, as well as the neighbouring citizens around Japan," said climate and energy campaigner Kazue Suzuki in a statement. The ALPS filtration process removes most radioactive elements from the water, but some remain, including tritium. Experts say the element is only harmful to humans in large doses and with dilution the treated water poses no scientifically detectable risk. (With inputs froma agencies)

Japanese government approves plan to release treated water from Fukushima nuclear reactor into sea

Just 2,810 people in Tokyo are expected to get a shot from the first batch, while most regions will receive 1,000 doses or fewer, according to a health ministry schedule.

Japan begins coronavirus vaccinations for people over 65

Tokyo Olympics are nearly 100 days away and according to a poll more than 70% of people in Japan want the games to be canceled or delayed as the Coronavirus pandemic rolls on.

Poll: 70% of Japanese want the Tokyo Olympics to be delayed or cancelled

India and Japan are planning to hold a '2+2' format meeting of foreign and defence ministers in Tokyo later this month, Japanese media reported. &nbsp;

According to NHK, Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Defence Minister Kishi Nobuo are due to attend the meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.&nbsp;

This will the second such meeting between the two countries as the inaugural meeting of the India-Japan Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) was held on November 30, 2019, in New Delhi.&nbsp;

According to Asia Nikkei, this comes as China ramps up its activities in the disputed East and South China Seas. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Japan's Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide is also making arrangements to visit India. The ministers are expected to discuss ways to cooperate more closely on defence. &nbsp;

Japan and India signed an agreement last year to allow the Self-Defence Forces and the Indian military to provide each other with food and fuel. &nbsp;

The NHK, in a report, said that the Japanese government is increasingly looking to India as an ally that shares basic values and can help work toward a free and open Indo-Pacific as China continues to assert itself across the region. Both India and Japan time and again have asserted that they are committed to efforts to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. &nbsp;

Last month, the leaders of the Quad alliance, India, the US, Japan and Australia had underscored the importance of a 'free and open' Indo-Pacific region during the group's first-ever leaders' summit.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that Quad has now come of age and will serve as an important pillar in ensuring the stability of the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The Asia-Pacific region features several territorial disputes in the South China and East China seas, which involve Brunei, China, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India and Japan are planning to hold a '2+2' format meeting of foreign and defence ministers in Tokyo later this month, Japanese media reported. According to NHK, Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Defence Minister Kishi Nobuo are due to attend the meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

India and Japan are planning to hold a '2+2' format meeting of foreign and defence ministers in Tokyo later this month, Japanese media reported. According to NHK, Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Defence Minister Kishi Nobuo are due to attend the meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. This will the second such meeting between the two countries as the inaugural meeting of the India-Japan Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) was held on November 30, 2019, in New Delhi. According to Asia Nikkei, this comes as China ramps up its activities in the disputed East and South China Seas. Meanwhile, Japan's Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide is also making arrangements to visit India. The ministers are expected to discuss ways to cooperate more closely on defence. Japan and India signed an agreement last year to allow the Self-Defence Forces and the Indian military to provide each other with food and fuel. The NHK, in a report, said that the Japanese government is increasingly looking to India as an ally that shares basic values and can help work toward a free and open Indo-Pacific as China continues to assert itself across the region. Both India and Japan time and again have asserted that they are committed to efforts to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. Last month, the leaders of the Quad alliance, India, the US, Japan and Australia had underscored the importance of a 'free and open' Indo-Pacific region during the group's first-ever leaders' summit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that Quad has now come of age and will serve as an important pillar in ensuring the stability of the Indo-Pacific region. The Asia-Pacific region features several territorial disputes in the South China and East China seas, which involve Brunei, China, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. (With inputs from agencies)

India, Japan to hold 2+2 talks amid China's aggressive moves  

Nearly 100 days before Tokyo Olympics, Japan is all set to approve strict restrictions in the capital city to combat a surge in Coronavirus infections. The restrictions are expected to be announced on Friday (April 9) and will be in place till the May 11.

Japan to announce strict restrictions in Tokyo to combat surge in Coronavirus

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is expected to visit India as part of efforts to bolster cooperation across the Indo-Pacific to counter China’s aggressive actions.

Japan PM Suga to visit India to bolster Indo-Pacific cooperation

The Japanese government is thinking of prioritising COVID-19 vaccines for athletes taking part in the Olympics and Paralympics

Japan may prioritise Olympic athletes for vaccine: Reports

Japan’s household spending fell 6.6% in February from a year earlier, down for the third straight month under the country’s second state of emergency over the coronavirus pandemic.

World Business Watch: Japan household spending dropped 6.6% for third month

Japan deploys destroyer to gather information after Chinese carrier group spotted in Okinawa and Miyako islands towards the Pacific, Japan has sent its destroyer in retaliation.

Japan sends destroyer to track China's Liaoning aircraft

The foreign and defence ministers of Japan and Germany will hold a “2 plus 2” virtual dialogue in mid-April -- in the wake of China taking an increasingly aggressive foreign policy approach in the Indo-Pacific region.

The daily Yomiuri reported on Monday that the “2 plus 2” talks will be the first among the two countries, and they are expected to discuss ways to defence and a “free and open Indo-Pacific” in face of an increasingly assertive China.

The two parties are looking to speak on April 16, the Yomiuri also said. The exact has, however, so far not been confirmed.

Last September, Germany drew up diplomatic and trade guidelines for the Indo-Pacific region that sought to reverse course from its heavy focus on China and boost its security presence in Asia, including the dispatching of a frigate to the Indo-Pacific region.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel reached a broad agreement on an information protection pact with then-Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during her visit to Japan in February 2019.

Tokyo already has similar pacts with the United States and Australia.

(with inputs)

The foreign and defence ministers of Japan and Germany will hold a “2 plus 2” virtual dialogue in mid-April -- in the wake of China taking an increasingly aggressive foreign policy approach in the Indo-Pacific region.

The foreign and defence ministers of Japan and Germany will hold a “2 plus 2” virtual dialogue in mid-April -- in the wake of China taking an increasingly aggressive foreign policy approach in the Indo-Pacific region. The daily Yomiuri reported on Monday that the “2 plus 2” talks will be the first among the two countries, and they are expected to discuss ways to defence and a “free and open Indo-Pacific” in face of an increasingly assertive China. The two parties are looking to speak on April 16, the Yomiuri also said. The exact has, however, so far not been confirmed. Last September, Germany drew up diplomatic and trade guidelines for the Indo-Pacific region that sought to reverse course from its heavy focus on China and boost its security presence in Asia, including the dispatching of a frigate to the Indo-Pacific region. German Chancellor Angela Merkel reached a broad agreement on an information protection pact with then-Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during her visit to Japan in February 2019. Tokyo already has similar pacts with the United States and Australia. (with inputs)

Japan and Germany to hold first '2 plus 2' dialogue talks in April

Japanese big manufacturers’ sentiment improved to pre-pandemic levels in the first quarter as companies planned to increase capital expenditure this year.

World Business Watch: Japan business sentiments improves to pre-pandemic levels

The U.S. and other countries say the WHO report lacked crucial information, access and transparency and further study was warranted.

Japan wants further probe into COVID-19 origins

What’s behind Japan’s early cherry blossom this year? Climate change may be the reason. Watch the video to know more.

Climate change causing early blossoming of Japan's cherries

Underscoring the fragile nature of the economy's recovery from last year's slump, Japanese retail sales fell for the third straight month in February as households kept a lid on expenditure amid the coronavirus emergency.

World Business Watch: Japan's retail sales fall for third straight month

In yet another case of illegal intrusion by Beijing, two Chinese government vessels entered Japan's territorial waters off the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea on Monday morning.&nbsp;

Japan Coast Guard officials said that the vessels intruded into Japan's waters off Minamikojima Island around 4 am on Monday, NHK World reported, adding that Japanese officials are warning the ships to leave the waters.&nbsp;

As many as three Chinese government vessels were earlier seen navigating in the contiguous zone, just outside Japan's territorial waters, officials said.&nbsp;

The Japanese broadcaster reported that this is the 11th time this year that official Chinese vessels have entered Japan's territorial waters off the Senkaku Islands.&nbsp;

Japan controls the Senkaku Islands, however, China and Taiwan continue to claim them. Tokyo maintains the islands are an inherent part of its territory as per history and international law. &nbsp;

Earlier, USA's Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, during his first conversation with Japanese counterpart, had renewed USA's commitment to defend Senkaku Islands against Chinese expansionism. Japan and China have a dispute over islands in East China Sea that are called Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China.&nbsp;

Austin and Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi confirmed that Article 5 of the US-Japan security treaty, which stipulates US defence obligations to Japan, covers the Senkaku Islands, said Jiji news agency.&nbsp;

The defence ministers also reaffirmed their opposition to any unilateral act that would undermine Japan's right to administer the islands.&nbsp;

Japan has become increasingly concerned about Chinese expansionist manoeuvres in East China Sea including incursions in waters around disputed islands.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In yet another case of illegal intrusion by Beijing, two Chinese government vessels entered Japan's territorial waters off the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea on Monday morning.

In yet another case of illegal intrusion by Beijing, two Chinese government vessels entered Japan's territorial waters off the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea on Monday morning. Japan Coast Guard officials said that the vessels intruded into Japan's waters off Minamikojima Island around 4 am on Monday, NHK World reported, adding that Japanese officials are warning the ships to leave the waters. As many as three Chinese government vessels were earlier seen navigating in the contiguous zone, just outside Japan's territorial waters, officials said. The Japanese broadcaster reported that this is the 11th time this year that official Chinese vessels have entered Japan's territorial waters off the Senkaku Islands. Japan controls the Senkaku Islands, however, China and Taiwan continue to claim them. Tokyo maintains the islands are an inherent part of its territory as per history and international law. Earlier, USA's Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, during his first conversation with Japanese counterpart, had renewed USA's commitment to defend Senkaku Islands against Chinese expansionism. Japan and China have a dispute over islands in East China Sea that are called Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China. Austin and Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi confirmed that Article 5 of the US-Japan security treaty, which stipulates US defence obligations to Japan, covers the Senkaku Islands, said Jiji news agency. The defence ministers also reaffirmed their opposition to any unilateral act that would undermine Japan's right to administer the islands. Japan has become increasingly concerned about Chinese expansionist manoeuvres in East China Sea including incursions in waters around disputed islands. (With inputs from agencies)

Two Chinese ships enter Japan's territorial waters off Senkaku Islands 

China's embassy in the Philippines has blamed 'some external countries' for stoking tensions in the region, in remarks aimed at Japan after its ambassador stressed the need for peace and stability and in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

China was criticised by the Philippines and the United States this week after Manila said there were about 220 vessels likely manned by Chinese maritime militia anchored in disputed waters.&nbsp;

"Within our region tensions are rising because some external countries are bent on playing fusty geopolitical games," the Chinese embassy said on Twitter.&nbsp;

"It is a pity that some Asian country, which has disputes in the East China Sea and is driven by the selfish aim to check China's revitalisation, willingly stoops as a strategic vassal of the US," it said.&nbsp;

The comment was a direct response to a Twitter remark by Japan's ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko, who on Tuesday said his country 'opposes any action that heightens tensions' in the South China Sea, and supports international efforts to keep the waters peaceful and open.&nbsp;

China's extensive territorial claims in the East and South China Seas have become a priority issue in an increasingly testy Sino-US relationship and are a security concern for Japan.&nbsp;

The Philippines complained to China at the weekend about what it called the 'swarming and threatening presence' of Chinese vessels at the Whitsun Reef.&nbsp;

China's mission in the Philippines said those were fishing vessels sheltering from rough seas. It also criticised the United States for 'fanning flames and provoking confrontation in the region'.&nbsp;

Philippine military chief Cirilito Sobejana on Wednesday said he had instructed the navy to deploy more boats 'to increase our visibility and ensure the security and safety of our fishermen'.&nbsp;

Sobejana said China's defence attache had met Philippine military representatives on Wednesday after being asked to explain the maritime militia, but he had yet to briefed on the meeting.&nbsp;

China's embassy in the Philippines has blamed 'some external countries' for stoking tensions in the region, in remarks aimed at Japan after its ambassador stressed the need for peace and stability and in the South China Sea.

China's embassy in the Philippines has blamed 'some external countries' for stoking tensions in the region, in remarks aimed at Japan after its ambassador stressed the need for peace and stability and in the South China Sea. China was criticised by the Philippines and the United States this week after Manila said there were about 220 vessels likely manned by Chinese maritime militia anchored in disputed waters. "Within our region tensions are rising because some external countries are bent on playing fusty geopolitical games," the Chinese embassy said on Twitter. "It is a pity that some Asian country, which has disputes in the East China Sea and is driven by the selfish aim to check China's revitalisation, willingly stoops as a strategic vassal of the US," it said. The comment was a direct response to a Twitter remark by Japan's ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko, who on Tuesday said his country 'opposes any action that heightens tensions' in the South China Sea, and supports international efforts to keep the waters peaceful and open. China's extensive territorial claims in the East and South China Seas have become a priority issue in an increasingly testy Sino-US relationship and are a security concern for Japan. The Philippines complained to China at the weekend about what it called the 'swarming and threatening presence' of Chinese vessels at the Whitsun Reef. China's mission in the Philippines said those were fishing vessels sheltering from rough seas. It also criticised the United States for 'fanning flames and provoking confrontation in the region'. Philippine military chief Cirilito Sobejana on Wednesday said he had instructed the navy to deploy more boats 'to increase our visibility and ensure the security and safety of our fishermen'. Sobejana said China's defence attache had met Philippine military representatives on Wednesday after being asked to explain the maritime militia, but he had yet to briefed on the meeting.

China embassy takes swipe at 'fusty' Japan over South China Sea 

Tokyo prosecutors on Monday charged two Americans with helping Carlos Ghosn, the former Nissan chief, jump bail in Tokyo, where he was awaiting trial on four counts of financial wrongdoing.

Japanese prosecutors said in an indictment that the two men, Michael Taylor, 60, a former Green Beret, and his son Peter Maxwell Taylor, 27, assisted Ghosn’s efforts to escape the country, helping him flee to Turkey and then on to Lebanon, where he has been beyond the reach of Japanese law.

U.S. officials arrested the men in May in Massachusetts. Earlier this month, they were extradited to Japan, where they have been held in a Tokyo detention center while undergoing questioning by prosecutors. A third man believed to have aided Ghosn’s escape remains at large.

Japanese authorities have accused Michael Taylor of helping Ghosn travel by train to the western city of Osaka, through security checks at a private jet terminal and then onto a plane bound for Turkey. Once there, Ghosn transferred to a flight bound for Beirut. Peter Taylor assisted in planning for the escapade, visiting Ghosn several times before the escape, officials say.

Ghosn and his son, Anthony Ghosn, paid more than $1.3 million to the Taylors and a company they controlled, U.S. prosecutors have said in court filings.

Ghosn’s case raised international concerns about what some critics call Japan’s system of “hostage justice,” which includes lengthy detentions of criminal suspects without charge. While in the United States, the Taylors fought a long legal battle to prevent their extradition, with their lawyers arguing that they could be subjected to harsh conditions in a Japanese jail.

Tokyo prosecutors on Monday charged two Americans with helping Carlos Ghosn, the former Nissan chief, jump bail in Tokyo, where he was awaiting trial on four counts of financial wrongdoing.

Tokyo prosecutors on Monday charged two Americans with helping Carlos Ghosn, the former Nissan chief, jump bail in Tokyo, where he was awaiting trial on four counts of financial wrongdoing. Japanese prosecutors said in an indictment that the two men, Michael Taylor, 60, a former Green Beret, and his son Peter Maxwell Taylor, 27, assisted Ghosn’s efforts to escape the country, helping him flee to Turkey and then on to Lebanon, where he has been beyond the reach of Japanese law. U.S. officials arrested the men in May in Massachusetts. Earlier this month, they were extradited to Japan, where they have been held in a Tokyo detention center while undergoing questioning by prosecutors. A third man believed to have aided Ghosn’s escape remains at large. Japanese authorities have accused Michael Taylor of helping Ghosn travel by train to the western city of Osaka, through security checks at a private jet terminal and then onto a plane bound for Turkey. Once there, Ghosn transferred to a flight bound for Beirut. Peter Taylor assisted in planning for the escapade, visiting Ghosn several times before the escape, officials say. Ghosn and his son, Anthony Ghosn, paid more than $1.3 million to the Taylors and a company they controlled, U.S. prosecutors have said in court filings. Ghosn’s case raised international concerns about what some critics call Japan’s system of “hostage justice,” which includes lengthy detentions of criminal suspects without charge. While in the United States, the Taylors fought a long legal battle to prevent their extradition, with their lawyers arguing that they could be subjected to harsh conditions in a Japanese jail.

Japan indicts two Americans tied to Ghosn’s escape

4 leaders, 4 democracies & 1 platform. The Quad has been revived but can it go beyond words? On Gravitas Plus, Palki Sharma Upadhyay decodes the past, present & future of this grouping.

Gravitas Plus: The Quad: Past, Present & Future

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck off northeastern coast of Japan. A tsunami warning was issued initially but was withdrawn laterThere was no immediate report of damage or injuries.

The earthquake hit 0909 GMT (2:39 pm Indian time in waters of Pacific waters off Miyagi region. The quake struck at a depth of 60 kilometres.&nbsp;

The Japanese meteorological agency had earlier issued advisory for tsunami waves of around one metre.

Inspection of region's nuclear plants was carried out. Train services including shinkansen bullet trains were suspended.

The US Geological Service put the strength of the quake at 7.0-magnitude.

The quake and tsunami advisory come not long after Japan marked 10 years since the catastrophic 9.0-magnitude earthquake of March 11, 2011, that triggered a killer tsunami and the Fukushima meltdown.

The so-called triple disaster-affected Japan's northeast, including Miyagi.

Some residents of coastal communities said they had fled to higher ground after the advisory was issued Saturday evening.&nbsp;

"I recalled that day 10 years ago," a man in Ishinomaki city told national broadcaster NHK as he fled to a park on a hill.&nbsp;

"Because of our experience of that day, I moved quickly. My heart is pounding hard," he said.

There were no immediate reports of damage, according to Takashi Yokota, an official of Miyagi prefecture's disaster management office.

The Nuclear Regulation Authority said there had been no reports of abnormality at the area's nuclear facilities, including the crippled Fukushima Daiichi plant, Onagawa nuclear plant and various smaller facilities and experimental nuclear reactors.

(With AFP inputs)

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck off northeastern coast of Japan. A tsunami warning was issued initially but was withdrawn laterThere was no immediate report of damage or injuries.

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck off northeastern coast of Japan. A tsunami warning was issued initially but was withdrawn laterThere was no immediate report of damage or injuries. The earthquake hit 0909 GMT (2:39 pm Indian time in waters of Pacific waters off Miyagi region. The quake struck at a depth of 60 kilometres. The Japanese meteorological agency had earlier issued advisory for tsunami waves of around one metre. Inspection of region's nuclear plants was carried out. Train services including shinkansen bullet trains were suspended. The US Geological Service put the strength of the quake at 7.0-magnitude. The quake and tsunami advisory come not long after Japan marked 10 years since the catastrophic 9.0-magnitude earthquake of March 11, 2011, that triggered a killer tsunami and the Fukushima meltdown. The so-called triple disaster-affected Japan's northeast, including Miyagi. Some residents of coastal communities said they had fled to higher ground after the advisory was issued Saturday evening. "I recalled that day 10 years ago," a man in Ishinomaki city told national broadcaster NHK as he fled to a park on a hill. "Because of our experience of that day, I moved quickly. My heart is pounding hard," he said. There were no immediate reports of damage, according to Takashi Yokota, an official of Miyagi prefecture's disaster management office. The Nuclear Regulation Authority said there had been no reports of abnormality at the area's nuclear facilities, including the crippled Fukushima Daiichi plant, Onagawa nuclear plant and various smaller facilities and experimental nuclear reactors. (With AFP inputs)

7.2 magnitude earthquake hits off Japan coast

A district court in Japan on Wednesday ruled that same-sex couples not being able to marry is “unconstitutional”. The court, despite the ruling, threw out the plaintiffs’ demands to seek damages from the Japanese government, Reuters reported.

This marks the first ruling of its kind in Japan, and is being seen as a symbolic victory for the LGBTQIA+ community in the country.

Japan is the only G7 country to not fully recognise same-sex relationships. The country’s constitution defines marriage as “based on the mutual consent of both sexes”.

Constitutionally, "marriage shall be only with the mutual consent of both sexes". According to&nbsp;the government, this means that same-sex marriage is "not foreseen" in the constitution or civil law.

The verdict was not immediately confirmed by Sapporo court after several local media outlets reported the landmark ruling.

Currently, same-sex couples cannot inherit the assets of their partner, including the house that may have shared. In addition, they also have no parental rights to any of their partners' children.

Even though individual municipalities give out partnership certificates to ease renting places for LGBTQIA+ folks and to get hospital visitation rights, the couples are still not given the full legal rights on the same plane as heterosexual couples.

The court threw out demands for damages by six plaintiffs, including two couples of men and one of women - who sought 1 million yen each in damages that they suffered for not being able to marry.

Many other courts in Japan are currently hearing similar cases, and this ruling may influence the outcome in those cases.

Japanese laws are considered relatively liberal for Asian standards, and homosexual sex has been legal since 1880. Even then, the social outlook of the community has kept sexuality stigmatised.

A district court in Japan on Wednesday ruled that same-sex couples not being able to marry is “unconstitutional”. The court, despite the ruling, threw out the plaintiffs’ demands to seek damages from the Japanese government, Reuters reported.

A district court in Japan on Wednesday ruled that same-sex couples not being able to marry is “unconstitutional”. The court, despite the ruling, threw out the plaintiffs’ demands to seek damages from the Japanese government, Reuters reported. This marks the first ruling of its kind in Japan, and is being seen as a symbolic victory for the LGBTQIA+ community in the country. Japan is the only G7 country to not fully recognise same-sex relationships. The country’s constitution defines marriage as “based on the mutual consent of both sexes”. Constitutionally, "marriage shall be only with the mutual consent of both sexes". According to the government, this means that same-sex marriage is "not foreseen" in the constitution or civil law. The verdict was not immediately confirmed by Sapporo court after several local media outlets reported the landmark ruling. Currently, same-sex couples cannot inherit the assets of their partner, including the house that may have shared. In addition, they also have no parental rights to any of their partners' children. Even though individual municipalities give out partnership certificates to ease renting places for LGBTQIA+ folks and to get hospital visitation rights, the couples are still not given the full legal rights on the same plane as heterosexual couples. The court threw out demands for damages by six plaintiffs, including two couples of men and one of women - who sought 1 million yen each in damages that they suffered for not being able to marry. Many other courts in Japan are currently hearing similar cases, and this ruling may influence the outcome in those cases. Japanese laws are considered relatively liberal for Asian standards, and homosexual sex has been legal since 1880. Even then, the social outlook of the community has kept sexuality stigmatised.

Japanese court rules same-sex couples not being able to marry is 'unconstitutional'

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