Preparations were underway on Monday around the Nippon Budokan arena in central Tokyo for former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's state funeral, in which 6,000 guests and 190 foreign delegations are expected to attend.

Japan prepares for Former PM Shinzo Abe's state funeral

Shinzo Abe's state funeral will be held on Tuesday. Leaders will be flying out from around the world to attend the ceremony to pay their respects to Japan's longest serving prime minister.

Japan: Protests against Abe's state funeral, growing discontent among public

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Japanese former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral has become a point of contention in the country, as hundreds of people have been protesting for months calling for the event to be cancelled. Meanwhile, Abe’s state funeral costs are now being compared to the funeral services held for the recently departed UK’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II.&nbsp;

While the actual total cost of the Queen's funeral, held earlier this month, has not been disclosed, several sources have cited the Daily Mirror, a British national daily tabloid, who reported the estimated figure of £8 million or 1.3 billion yen. This is in comparison to the cost of the former prime minister’s upcoming state funeral which is to be held next week and is set to cost the Japanese government at least 1.66 billion, said the media reports.&nbsp;

The debate surrounding Abe’s state funeral has been going on for months and has triggered a string of protests and demonstrations in Japan. Meanwhile, people have also highlighted the cost of the Tokyo Olympics which cost the country, $13 billion which was reportedly double the amount they estimated for the event.

Some even questioned the state funeral’s legality saying that since they have been historically reserved for the emperor. Furthermore, the decision to hold Abe’s funeral was made by the cabinet and did not even go through parliamentary approval, indicated media reports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-what-is-the-controversy-surrounding-the-state-funeral-for-former-pm-shinzo-abe-513837">Japan: What is the controversy surrounding the state funeral for former PM Shinzo Abe?</a>&nbsp;

The upcoming funeral has also been dubbed “funeral diplomacy”. The three-day event will see the presence of 700 guests from 217 countries, and leaders including prime ministers of India and Australia, Narendra Modi and Anthony Albanese, and US vice president Kamala Harris.&nbsp;

According to a report by the Guardian, the Japanese government estimated the cost of the state funeral to be 250 million yen. Meanwhile, the policing of the event would cost approximately 800 million yen, said chief cabinet secretary, Hirokazu Matsuno, while hosting the dignitaries of various countries is expected to cost at least 600 million yen. He added the cost may reach up to $1.7 billion yen.&nbsp;

Abe was Japan's longest-serving prime minister who was assassinated earlier this year in July. Several polls in the country have indicated that over 50% of people are against the state funeral citing different reasons. A survey by the Kyodo news agency said that more than 70% of participants have said that the government is spending too much money on the funeral. Another poll by Mainichi newspaper said that at least 62% of people are opposed to the upcoming state funeral.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/man-sets-himself-on-fire-in-apparent-protest-against-abes-state-funeral-518225">Man sets himself on fire in apparent protest against Abe's state funeral</a>

This comes amid some 12 municipalities in Japan issuing statements calling for the state funeral to be cancelled. Earlier this week, a man set himself ablaze in protest near the incumbent Japanese PM Fumio Kishida’s office. While Abe’s death was a shock to most, he is set to become the second PM in the history of Japan to receive a state funeral.&nbsp;

Many have opposed the upcoming funeral predominantly because the country is battling inflation for the time in decades and critics say that the money could be spent elsewhere like helping low-income families through this difficult time, the media reported. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Japanese former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral has become a point of contention in the country, as hundreds of people have been protesting for months calling for the event to be cancelled.

Japanese former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral has become a point of contention in the country, as hundreds of people have been protesting for months calling for the event to be cancelled. Meanwhile, Abe’s state funeral costs are now being compared to the funeral services held for the recently departed UK’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. While the actual total cost of the Queen's funeral, held earlier this month, has not been disclosed, several sources have cited the Daily Mirror, a British national daily tabloid, who reported the estimated figure of £8 million or 1.3 billion yen. This is in comparison to the cost of the former prime minister’s upcoming state funeral which is to be held next week and is set to cost the Japanese government at least 1.66 billion, said the media reports. The debate surrounding Abe’s state funeral has been going on for months and has triggered a string of protests and demonstrations in Japan. Meanwhile, people have also highlighted the cost of the Tokyo Olympics which cost the country, $13 billion which was reportedly double the amount they estimated for the event. Some even questioned the state funeral’s legality saying that since they have been historically reserved for the emperor. Furthermore, the decision to hold Abe’s funeral was made by the cabinet and did not even go through parliamentary approval, indicated media reports. ALSO READ: Japan: What is the controversy surrounding the state funeral for former PM Shinzo Abe? The upcoming funeral has also been dubbed “funeral diplomacy”. The three-day event will see the presence of 700 guests from 217 countries, and leaders including prime ministers of India and Australia, Narendra Modi and Anthony Albanese, and US vice president Kamala Harris. According to a report by the Guardian, the Japanese government estimated the cost of the state funeral to be 250 million yen. Meanwhile, the policing of the event would cost approximately 800 million yen, said chief cabinet secretary, Hirokazu Matsuno, while hosting the dignitaries of various countries is expected to cost at least 600 million yen. He added the cost may reach up to $1.7 billion yen. Abe was Japan's longest-serving prime minister who was assassinated earlier this year in July. Several polls in the country have indicated that over 50% of people are against the state funeral citing different reasons. A survey by the Kyodo news agency said that more than 70% of participants have said that the government is spending too much money on the funeral. Another poll by Mainichi newspaper said that at least 62% of people are opposed to the upcoming state funeral. ALSO READ: Man sets himself on fire in apparent protest against Abe's state funeral This comes amid some 12 municipalities in Japan issuing statements calling for the state funeral to be cancelled. Earlier this week, a man set himself ablaze in protest near the incumbent Japanese PM Fumio Kishida’s office. While Abe’s death was a shock to most, he is set to become the second PM in the history of Japan to receive a state funeral. Many have opposed the upcoming funeral predominantly because the country is battling inflation for the time in decades and critics say that the money could be spent elsewhere like helping low-income families through this difficult time, the media reported.

Japan: Former PM Abe’s funeral to cost more than Queen Elizabeth II’s?

The Unification Church in Japan pledged Thursday to prevent followers from making "excessive" donations, after criticism of its practices following the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe.

Abe's alleged assassin is believed to have resented the sect over massive donations his mother made to the church, leaving the family bankrupt.

He reportedly targeted Abe believing he was linked to the church, whose followers are sometimes known colloquially as "Moonies".

The group has denied any wrongdoing and disavowed Abe's murder, but church executive Hideyuki Teshigawara said it would now "take into consideration the financial situation of followers and ensure that donations are not excessive".

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The church will "respect the independence and free will of followers" on donations, Teshigawara, who heads the group's new reform committee, told reporters.

The group says it took measures to regulate donations in 2009, but will now bolster them.

The announcement comes after a wave of accusations about the church's practices, including from former members who say they were pressured into making enormous donations under the guise of "spiritual sales".

The mother of the man accused of killing Abe donated around 100 million yen (then around $1 million) to the church, according to a relative.

Japan's National Network of Lawyers Against Spiritual Sales says it has filed suits seeking 123.7 billion yen ($850 million) in damages for former followers since 1987.

The church, however, says just four civil lawsuits were filed since 2009 and they have all been settled, for a total of 38 million yen.

Experts say Japan serves as a financial hub for the church, which is known officially as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification and was founded by Sun Myung Moon in Korea in 1954.

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Japanese believers are taught that they need to atone for their country's wartime occupation of Korea, in part through hefty donations, according to former members and experts.

Teshigawara said the church would review the use of money raised in Japan for missionary work overseas and would look to use the funds to support domestic efforts instead.

Anyone found violating the church's policies would be "strictly punished", he added.

The reforms are unlikely to dissipate the widening controversy over the church, particularly after the revelation that it had links with around half the ruling party's lawmakers.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who has seen his government's approval ratings slip over the issue, has pledged his party will cut ties with the church.

He faces additional controversy over a planned state funeral for Abe on September 27, with polls showing more than half of Japanese people oppose the event.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The Unification Church in Japan pledged Thursday to prevent followers from making "excessive" donations, after criticism of its practices following the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe.

The Unification Church in Japan pledged Thursday to prevent followers from making "excessive" donations, after criticism of its practices following the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe. Abe's alleged assassin is believed to have resented the sect over massive donations his mother made to the church, leaving the family bankrupt. He reportedly targeted Abe believing he was linked to the church, whose followers are sometimes known colloquially as "Moonies". The group has denied any wrongdoing and disavowed Abe's murder, but church executive Hideyuki Teshigawara said it would now "take into consideration the financial situation of followers and ensure that donations are not excessive". Also read | Apple issues latest iPhone 14 update to fix shaking camera and authorisation problems The church will "respect the independence and free will of followers" on donations, Teshigawara, who heads the group's new reform committee, told reporters. The group says it took measures to regulate donations in 2009, but will now bolster them. The announcement comes after a wave of accusations about the church's practices, including from former members who say they were pressured into making enormous donations under the guise of "spiritual sales". The mother of the man accused of killing Abe donated around 100 million yen (then around $1 million) to the church, according to a relative. Japan's National Network of Lawyers Against Spiritual Sales says it has filed suits seeking 123.7 billion yen ($850 million) in damages for former followers since 1987. The church, however, says just four civil lawsuits were filed since 2009 and they have all been settled, for a total of 38 million yen. Experts say Japan serves as a financial hub for the church, which is known officially as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification and was founded by Sun Myung Moon in Korea in 1954. Also read | UN memo says Pakistan should suspend debt repayments: Reports Japanese believers are taught that they need to atone for their country's wartime occupation of Korea, in part through hefty donations, according to former members and experts. Teshigawara said the church would review the use of money raised in Japan for missionary work overseas and would look to use the funds to support domestic efforts instead. Anyone found violating the church's policies would be "strictly punished", he added. The reforms are unlikely to dissipate the widening controversy over the church, particularly after the revelation that it had links with around half the ruling party's lawmakers. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who has seen his government's approval ratings slip over the issue, has pledged his party will cut ties with the church. He faces additional controversy over a planned state funeral for Abe on September 27, with polls showing more than half of Japanese people oppose the event.

Unification Church in Japan pledges donation reforms after Shinzo Abe’s assassination

The Unification Church in Japan accepted that it received a huge donation from Shinzo Abe's murder suspect's mother and it would need to seriously consider if that led to the killing of the Japanese leader. Shinzo Abe was shot dead during an outdoor campaign speech, back in July.

Unification Church in Japan accepts it took huge donation from Shinzo Abe shooting suspect's mother

In Japan, the unification church that came into the headlines following the former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's assassination has now acknowledged the fact that it accepted huge donations from the suspect's mother.

Shinzo Abe Probe: Unification church accepts donation claims, suspect's mother donated $700,00

A man set himself on fire near the Japanese prime minister's office in Tokyo to protest against the state funeral of Japan's longest-serving prime minister Shinzo Abe.

Japan: Man attempts self-immolation near PM office over Abe's state funeral

Support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tumbled to its lowest level since he took office, hit by growing anger over a state funeral for slain former leader Shinzo Abe and his ruling party's ties to a controversial church, an opinion poll showed.

Kishida's support fell to 32.3% from 44.3% a month before, according to the survey by Jiji news agency conducted at the weekend - approaching what is widely seen as a "danger level" of 30% that signifies a government may run into trouble carrying out its political agenda.

Those who did not support his government climbed to 40%, a rise of 11.5 points, Jiji added.

Links to the Unification Church, founded in South Korea in the 1950s, have become a growing headache for Kishida since July 8, when Abe was killed by a suspect who blamed him for supporting the church, which he said had bankrupted his mother.

Revelations following Abe's assassination of ties between the ruling party and the church, which has faced criticism over the years, have fed into anger about the cost of the Sept. 27 funeral, paid for solely by state funds, and how Kishida decided to hold it.

Kishida defended his decision in parliament last week, the same day his ruling party announced the results of its investigation into party ties to the church, but the poll found that 62.7% of respondents did not approve of his handling of the church matter, while 51.9% were against the state funeral.

Recovery from such steep falls in support may be difficult, analysts said.

"Even once the funeral's past, the problem with the Unification Church will continue. He'll probably face harsh questioning in parliament once it opens in October," said commentator Atsuo Ito.

"With the economy under stress as well, I'm not sure what will help him regain support."

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Support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tumbled to its lowest level since he took office, hit by growing anger over a state funeral for slain former leader Shinzo Abe and his ruling party's ties to a controversial church, an opinion poll showed.

Support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tumbled to its lowest level since he took office, hit by growing anger over a state funeral for slain former leader Shinzo Abe and his ruling party's ties to a controversial church, an opinion poll showed. Kishida's support fell to 32.3% from 44.3% a month before, according to the survey by Jiji news agency conducted at the weekend - approaching what is widely seen as a "danger level" of 30% that signifies a government may run into trouble carrying out its political agenda. Those who did not support his government climbed to 40%, a rise of 11.5 points, Jiji added. Links to the Unification Church, founded in South Korea in the 1950s, have become a growing headache for Kishida since July 8, when Abe was killed by a suspect who blamed him for supporting the church, which he said had bankrupted his mother. Revelations following Abe's assassination of ties between the ruling party and the church, which has faced criticism over the years, have fed into anger about the cost of the Sept. 27 funeral, paid for solely by state funds, and how Kishida decided to hold it. Kishida defended his decision in parliament last week, the same day his ruling party announced the results of its investigation into party ties to the church, but the poll found that 62.7% of respondents did not approve of his handling of the church matter, while 51.9% were against the state funeral. Recovery from such steep falls in support may be difficult, analysts said. "Even once the funeral's past, the problem with the Unification Church will continue. He'll probably face harsh questioning in parliament once it opens in October," said commentator Atsuo Ito. "With the economy under stress as well, I'm not sure what will help him regain support." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Support for Japan's PM Fumio Kishida tumbles as anger over Shinzo Abe's state funeral grows

The upcoming state funeral for Japan’s former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has sparked major controversy as the current government is set to spend nearly 1.7 billion yen ($12 million), which has caused a public uproar in the form of petitions, protests, and court orders. The former PM was assassinated during a campaign speech, earlier this year, in July.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno announced the estimate of the memorial service scheduled for September 27, which includes the security and reception costs. This was following the announcement of the previous estimate of over 200 million yen, which did not include the aforementioned costs for foreign leaders and dignitaries. The announcement was also a backtrack from the government’s previous statement which indicated that the overall cost would not be revealed until after the state funeral.&nbsp;

While there is no clarity on the details of the service, the organizers have reportedly indicated that at least 6,000 guests are expected to attend the service to be held in Tokyo’s Nippon Budokan hall. Approximately 50 of the 190 overseas delegations are “heads of state-level”, said Matsuno. This may include leaders like Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, US Vice President Kamala Harris, and former US President Barack Obama.&nbsp;

According to Matsuno, the policing of the event will cost nearly 800 million yen. Furthermore, hosting foreign delegations will add 600 million yen to the bill. In response to a question speculating the cost of the service to be over 1.7 billion yen, the chief cabinet secretary said, “If we were to give a simplified estimate, it would be close to what you said.” This figure has been compared to the last state funeral held for former premier Shigeru Yoshida, in 1967, which cost approximately 18 million yen. In today’s time, it would be close to 70 million.&nbsp;

The service has threatened the incumbent Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who is facing a backlash as many in the country have argued that these funds could be allocated elsewhere given the current government’s heavy debt. However, Kishida defended his decision of holding a state funeral for Abe, at a press conference last week, saying that the service would “show our determination not to bend to violence and to firmly uphold democracy.”&nbsp;

The public opposition has also intensified over the alleged ties between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) MPs and the controversial South Korean-based Unification Church known for mass weddings, aggressive fundraising practices, and problematic recruiting.&nbsp;

On July 8, Shinzo Abe, the longest-serving prime minister of Japan was assassinated and his suspected killer Tetsuya Yamagami told prosecutors that he held a grudge against the church, which led him to seek revenge against its senior members. However, he instead killed Abe, whom he had seen in several videos released by the organization.&nbsp;

Yamagami claimed that his mother was a member of the church and donated all the family’s money and savings which in turn led him and his siblings to endure extreme poverty. Notably, last year, the former PM appeared in a video reportedly congratulating a group, which is said to be affiliated with the church, praising their commitment to upholding traditional family values.&nbsp;

In light of the scandal, Kishida addressed last week the public acknowledging that the Unification Church controversy has caused the public confidence in politics to dwindle, and said that he would demand that his party members sever ties with the organization. Meanwhile, members of his cabinet have reportedly agreed to review and cut ties with the organization. Kishida also issued an apology following media reports which exposed the extensive ties between the LDP and the church, saying, “As president of the LDP, I honestly express my apology.”&nbsp;

A recent poll by a Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun indicated that at least 56% of the respondents opposed the state funeral, while 38% were in support. Additionally, last month at least four protests were held against the service, one of which was outside the parliament, which according to local media saw the participation of approximately 4,000 people. On the other hand, this month civic groups also presented online petitions, signed by 280,000 people, calling for the memorial service to be canceled, according to NHK.

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The upcoming state funeral for Japan’s former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has sparked major controversy as the current government is set to spend nearly 1.7 billion yen ($12 million), which has caused a public uproar in the form of petitions, protests, and court orders.

The upcoming state funeral for Japan’s former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has sparked major controversy as the current government is set to spend nearly 1.7 billion yen ($12 million), which has caused a public uproar in the form of petitions, protests, and court orders. The former PM was assassinated during a campaign speech, earlier this year, in July. On Tuesday, chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno announced the estimate of the memorial service scheduled for September 27, which includes the security and reception costs. This was following the announcement of the previous estimate of over 200 million yen, which did not include the aforementioned costs for foreign leaders and dignitaries. The announcement was also a backtrack from the government’s previous statement which indicated that the overall cost would not be revealed until after the state funeral. While there is no clarity on the details of the service, the organizers have reportedly indicated that at least 6,000 guests are expected to attend the service to be held in Tokyo’s Nippon Budokan hall. Approximately 50 of the 190 overseas delegations are “heads of state-level”, said Matsuno. This may include leaders like Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, US Vice President Kamala Harris, and former US President Barack Obama. According to Matsuno, the policing of the event will cost nearly 800 million yen. Furthermore, hosting foreign delegations will add 600 million yen to the bill. In response to a question speculating the cost of the service to be over 1.7 billion yen, the chief cabinet secretary said, “If we were to give a simplified estimate, it would be close to what you said.” This figure has been compared to the last state funeral held for former premier Shigeru Yoshida, in 1967, which cost approximately 18 million yen. In today’s time, it would be close to 70 million. The service has threatened the incumbent Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who is facing a backlash as many in the country have argued that these funds could be allocated elsewhere given the current government’s heavy debt. However, Kishida defended his decision of holding a state funeral for Abe, at a press conference last week, saying that the service would “show our determination not to bend to violence and to firmly uphold democracy.” The public opposition has also intensified over the alleged ties between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) MPs and the controversial South Korean-based Unification Church known for mass weddings, aggressive fundraising practices, and problematic recruiting. On July 8, Shinzo Abe, the longest-serving prime minister of Japan was assassinated and his suspected killer Tetsuya Yamagami told prosecutors that he held a grudge against the church, which led him to seek revenge against its senior members. However, he instead killed Abe, whom he had seen in several videos released by the organization. Yamagami claimed that his mother was a member of the church and donated all the family’s money and savings which in turn led him and his siblings to endure extreme poverty. Notably, last year, the former PM appeared in a video reportedly congratulating a group, which is said to be affiliated with the church, praising their commitment to upholding traditional family values. In light of the scandal, Kishida addressed last week the public acknowledging that the Unification Church controversy has caused the public confidence in politics to dwindle, and said that he would demand that his party members sever ties with the organization. Meanwhile, members of his cabinet have reportedly agreed to review and cut ties with the organization. Kishida also issued an apology following media reports which exposed the extensive ties between the LDP and the church, saying, “As president of the LDP, I honestly express my apology.” A recent poll by a Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun indicated that at least 56% of the respondents opposed the state funeral, while 38% were in support. Additionally, last month at least four protests were held against the service, one of which was outside the parliament, which according to local media saw the participation of approximately 4,000 people. On the other hand, this month civic groups also presented online petitions, signed by 280,000 people, calling for the memorial service to be canceled, according to NHK. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan: What is the controversy surrounding the state funeral for former PM Shinzo Abe? 

Japanese government said on Tuesday (September 6) that it expects to spend about 1.7 billion yen (USD 12 million) on a state funeral for Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister who was assassinated in July. The huge expenditure is proving to be deeply unpopular among Japanese voters. A poll has showed that about half of Japanese voters oppose the expenditure.

Abe was shot dead on the campaign trail in July, and the government expects dozens of current and former heads of state to pay condolences at the September 27 service in Tokyo.

Security at the event alone is expected to cost around 800 million yen. Another 600 million will be spent on hosting and 250 million for the ceremony.

"Delegates from more than 190 foreign (countries and regions) will likely participate," said Hirozaku Matsuno, top governemnt spokesman, on Tuesday.

Shinzo Abe's funeral is due to be held at Tokyo's Nippon Budokan, a venue used for concerts and sports events that also hosted Japan's last state funeral for a former prime minister in 1967.

But state funerals for former politicians are rare in Japan, and a weekend poll published Monday by the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper found that 56 percent of voters oppose the event, against 38 percent in favour.

Other recent polls have shown similar levels of opposition, and Kishida has said he is ready to answer questions on the issue in parliament.

His government's approval ratings have taken a hit in recent weeks, in part due to the funeral decision.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japanese government said on Tuesday (September 6) that it expects to spend about 1.7 billion yen (USD 12 million) on a state funeral for Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister who was assassinated in July.

Japanese government said on Tuesday (September 6) that it expects to spend about 1.7 billion yen (USD 12 million) on a state funeral for Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister who was assassinated in July. The huge expenditure is proving to be deeply unpopular among Japanese voters. A poll has showed that about half of Japanese voters oppose the expenditure. Abe was shot dead on the campaign trail in July, and the government expects dozens of current and former heads of state to pay condolences at the September 27 service in Tokyo. Security at the event alone is expected to cost around 800 million yen. Another 600 million will be spent on hosting and 250 million for the ceremony. "Delegates from more than 190 foreign (countries and regions) will likely participate," said Hirozaku Matsuno, top governemnt spokesman, on Tuesday. Shinzo Abe's funeral is due to be held at Tokyo's Nippon Budokan, a venue used for concerts and sports events that also hosted Japan's last state funeral for a former prime minister in 1967. But state funerals for former politicians are rare in Japan, and a weekend poll published Monday by the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper found that 56 percent of voters oppose the event, against 38 percent in favour. Other recent polls have shown similar levels of opposition, and Kishida has said he is ready to answer questions on the issue in parliament. His government's approval ratings have taken a hit in recent weeks, in part due to the funeral decision. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan: Public unhappy over government plan to spend USD 12mn for Abe funeral

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday said members of his ruling party will have to&nbsp;cut ties with the Unification Church, which has faced renewed scrutiny following ex-premier Shinzo Abe's assassination.

Abe's alleged assassin resented the church over his mother's involvement with and hefty donations to the organisation and targeted the former prime minister believing he was linked to the sect.

In the wake of Abe's&nbsp;murder, revelations of links between the church and a raft of politicians have caused controversy.

The Unification Church has condemned Abe's murder and denied accusations of coercive fundraising tactics, but Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government has seen its approval ratings drop in recent weeks as more details have emerged.

"We will make it the party's policy that our lawmakers sincerely reflect on their past, abandon cosy relationships and cut off ties with the organisation in question," Kishida told reporters Wednesday.

"Politicians must be cautious about having relationships with organisations that society recognises as problematic," he said, promising an investigation into ties between members of his party and the church.

Politicians including Abe's brother and former defence minister Nobuo Kishi have acknowledged receiving help from church members during elections.

The church says political support is decided by individual members without official involvement, but experts say it has long cultivated ties with powerful figures internationally.

There has also been a fresh examination of allegations the church engages in "spiritual sales", pressuring members to buy high-priced items to raise funds.

The church denies engaging in the practice, but Kishida said the government would "make an all-out effort" to assist victims of such sales.

Abe was not a member of the church but had addressed an affiliated group, as have various prominent international businesspeople and politicians, including Donald Trump.

Controversial funeral

Abe was shot last month in the western Nara region while on the campaign trail, and the government is planning a September 27 state funeral expected to be attended by many current and former heads of state.

The plan is controversial in&nbsp;Japan, however, with some questioning if public money should be spent on an event celebrating a politician.

And while Abe was the country's longest-serving and best-known politician, he was also divisive, particularly because of his nationalist views and links to alleged cronyism.

Kishida defended the state funeral on Wednesday and said he would submit to questioning over the issue during a televised session of parliament.

"The fact we are holding this state funeral doesn't mean we're forcing people to express their condolences," Kishida said at his first press conference since he contracted Covid-19 earlier this month.&nbsp;

"But I'm aware that there have been various opinions as well as criticism that we have provided insufficient explanations."&nbsp;

He defended the decision by citing Abe's achievements domestically and internationally, saying he had received requests from world leaders to visit and pay their condolences.&nbsp;

Kishida said 6,000 people were expected to attend the funeral but that its final cost would not be clear until a guest list of foreign dignitaries was finalised.&nbsp;

A budget of 249 million yen ($1.8 million) has been approved for the event, but that figure does not include security for the dozens of high-profile foreign guests expected to attend.&nbsp;

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday said members of his ruling party will have to cut ties with the Unification Church, which has faced renewed scrutiny following ex-premier Shinzo Abe's assassination.

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday said members of his ruling party will have to cut ties with the Unification Church, which has faced renewed scrutiny following ex-premier Shinzo Abe's assassination. Abe's alleged assassin resented the church over his mother's involvement with and hefty donations to the organisation and targeted the former prime minister believing he was linked to the sect. In the wake of Abe's murder, revelations of links between the church and a raft of politicians have caused controversy. The Unification Church has condemned Abe's murder and denied accusations of coercive fundraising tactics, but Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government has seen its approval ratings drop in recent weeks as more details have emerged. "We will make it the party's policy that our lawmakers sincerely reflect on their past, abandon cosy relationships and cut off ties with the organisation in question," Kishida told reporters Wednesday. "Politicians must be cautious about having relationships with organisations that society recognises as problematic," he said, promising an investigation into ties between members of his party and the church. Politicians including Abe's brother and former defence minister Nobuo Kishi have acknowledged receiving help from church members during elections. The church says political support is decided by individual members without official involvement, but experts say it has long cultivated ties with powerful figures internationally. There has also been a fresh examination of allegations the church engages in "spiritual sales", pressuring members to buy high-priced items to raise funds. The church denies engaging in the practice, but Kishida said the government would "make an all-out effort" to assist victims of such sales. Abe was not a member of the church but had addressed an affiliated group, as have various prominent international businesspeople and politicians, including Donald Trump. Controversial funeral Abe was shot last month in the western Nara region while on the campaign trail, and the government is planning a September 27 state funeral expected to be attended by many current and former heads of state. The plan is controversial in Japan, however, with some questioning if public money should be spent on an event celebrating a politician. And while Abe was the country's longest-serving and best-known politician, he was also divisive, particularly because of his nationalist views and links to alleged cronyism. Kishida defended the state funeral on Wednesday and said he would submit to questioning over the issue during a televised session of parliament. "The fact we are holding this state funeral doesn't mean we're forcing people to express their condolences," Kishida said at his first press conference since he contracted Covid-19 earlier this month. "But I'm aware that there have been various opinions as well as criticism that we have provided insufficient explanations." He defended the decision by citing Abe's achievements domestically and internationally, saying he had received requests from world leaders to visit and pay their condolences. Kishida said 6,000 people were expected to attend the funeral but that its final cost would not be clear until a guest list of foreign dignitaries was finalised. A budget of 249 million yen ($1.8 million) has been approved for the event, but that figure does not include security for the dozens of high-profile foreign guests expected to attend.

Japan PM Fumio Kishida says ruling party to cut ties with Unification Church

Itaru Nakamura, Japan's National Police Agency chief, said on Thursday (August 25) that he step down and take responsibility for the murder of former prime minister Shinzo Abe. Nakamura stated that there is a need for a "fresh start" for the organisation and its security duties.&nbsp;

While addressing a press conference, Nakamura said, "To make a fresh start (of the police organisation), I myself submitted my resignation to Japan's national public safety commission. I would like to seek approval at the cabinet meeting in the near future."&nbsp;

He also said, "The state funeral of former Prime Minister Abe will be held next month and the G7 Summit in Hiroshima will be held in May next year. In order to prevent such an incident from happening again, under a new system I believe it is necessary to firmly implement measures based on a new security plan."&nbsp;

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Shinzo Abe, Japan's longest-serving modern leader and the country's best-known politician was killed on July 8 by a man when Abe was delivering a campaign speech in Nara. The assassination shocked the world.&nbsp;

Nakamura is the most senior official to step down in connection with Abe's assassination. In the aftermath, several experts have said security was seriously flawed during the event.&nbsp;

Security experts noted that bodyguards could have saved Abe by shielding him or pulling him from the line of fire in the 2.5 seconds between a missed first shot and the second.&nbsp;

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Tomoaki Onizuka, who is the police chief of Nara, also announced his resignation on Thursday.&nbsp;

Last month, Onizuka said that there were "undeniable" flaws in security for the former prime minister. He has pledged an investigation. The police chief said he "take[s] responsibility" for the security failure that resulted in Abe's demise.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Itaru Nakamura, Japan's National Police Agency chief, said on Thursday (August 25) that he step down and take responsibility for the murder of former prime minister Shinzo Abe.

Itaru Nakamura, Japan's National Police Agency chief, said on Thursday (August 25) that he step down and take responsibility for the murder of former prime minister Shinzo Abe. Nakamura stated that there is a need for a "fresh start" for the organisation and its security duties. While addressing a press conference, Nakamura said, "To make a fresh start (of the police organisation), I myself submitted my resignation to Japan's national public safety commission. I would like to seek approval at the cabinet meeting in the near future." He also said, "The state funeral of former Prime Minister Abe will be held next month and the G7 Summit in Hiroshima will be held in May next year. In order to prevent such an incident from happening again, under a new system I believe it is necessary to firmly implement measures based on a new security plan." ALSO READ | South Korea may face 'age quake' as fertility rate hits record low in 2021 Shinzo Abe, Japan's longest-serving modern leader and the country's best-known politician was killed on July 8 by a man when Abe was delivering a campaign speech in Nara. The assassination shocked the world. Nakamura is the most senior official to step down in connection with Abe's assassination. In the aftermath, several experts have said security was seriously flawed during the event. Security experts noted that bodyguards could have saved Abe by shielding him or pulling him from the line of fire in the 2.5 seconds between a missed first shot and the second. ALSO READ | Chinese soldier involved in Galwan Valley clash is now delegate to CPC congress Tomoaki Onizuka, who is the police chief of Nara, also announced his resignation on Thursday. Last month, Onizuka said that there were "undeniable" flaws in security for the former prime minister. He has pledged an investigation. The police chief said he "take[s] responsibility" for the security failure that resulted in Abe's demise. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shinzo Abe's assassination: Japan police chief Itaru Nakamura to resign, cites 'fresh start'

Japan's National Police chief says he intends to resign from his position taking responsibility for the deadly shooting that killed the country's former Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe last month.

Japan's police chief offers resignation, takes responsibility for Shinzo Abe's killing

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida reshuffled his cabinet on Wednesday, removing some ministers with ties to the Unification Church in an effort to stem falling support amid escalating public outrage over the ruling party’s associations with the controversial organisation.

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida reshuffled his cabinet on Wednesday, removing some ministers with ties to the Unification Church in an effort to stem falling support amid escalating public outrage over the ruling party’s associations with the controversial organisation. Kishida, who has been in office since last October, unveiled his new cabinet in a reorganisation that occurred earlier than observers had predicted. The positions of some prominent ministers were eliminated, including Nobuo Kishi, the younger brother of the assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was replaced as defence minister by Yasukazu Hamada. However, key individuals like foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi and finance chief Shunichi Suzuki retained their positions. With polls showing Kishida’s favour ratings plummeting and respondents stating a need to know precisely how tight such ties may be, the Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) historic ties to the Unification Church have come under scrutiny in the month since Abe was fatally shot. According to Abe’s alleged killer, his mother was a member of the Unification Church who became bankrupt after giving to it, and Abe was to blame for endorsing it. In other changes, Koichi Hagiuda, the trade minister, was appointed to the powerful position of head of the LDP’s policy research council. Despite the fact that Hagiuda has publicly admitted to attending an event sponsored by an organisation with ties to the Unification Church, that appointment is perceived as an effort to placate members of the Abe faction. Here’s why there’s a problem with the church. WHAT IS THE CONTEXT? The anti-communist messiah Sun Myung Moon established the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, also known as the Unification Church, in South Korea in 1954. One of the first countries to which it expanded internationally was Japan, where Moon’s conservatism coincided with the ruling class’s Cold War ideologies. According to church publications, he founded the International Federation for Victory Over Communism organisation in the 1960s and cultivated ties with Japanese leaders during that time. THE LDP: WHY? According to Eito Suzuki, a journalist who researches parliamentarians’ interactions with religious groups, the church and the LDP share some viewpoints, opposing same-sex marriage and advocating modification of Japan’s pacifist constitution. According to attorney Hiro Yamaguchi, who has worked on litigation against the religion, the church established relationships with politicians to draw members and establish credibility. He claimed that politicians were able to approach churchgoers for support during campaigns. According to LDP Secretary General Toshimitsu Motegi, there were no “systematic contacts” between the party and the church. He declared on Monday that it will sever ties with the religion. WHERE DOES SHINZO ABE FIT IN THIS PICTURE? Abe was not a member nor an adviser, according to the religion. According to the website of a church affiliate, he spoke at a gathering in September. The current defence minister and younger brother of Abe, Nobuo Kishi, told reporters that he had help from churchgoers who helped with his campaign. Nobusuke Kishi, a former prime minister and Abe’s grandfather, served as an honorary executive chair at a dinner hosted by Moon in 1974, according to the International Federation for Victory Over Communism. FALL-OUT? According to Japanese public broadcaster NHK, support for Kishida’s cabinet has reached its lowest level since he entered office in October, falling to 46%, with many survey respondents indicating they sought an explanation over connections to the church. New cabinet members and new governing party officials must “thoroughly investigate” connections with the church, according to Kishida, who has previously stated he had “no affiliations” to it. MAJOR IN JAPAN? According to Ahn Ho-yeul, a spokeswoman based in Seoul, the church has about 600,000 members in Japan out of its 10 million total members, making it the fourth-largest congregation in the world. However, monitoring organisations in Japan dispute this figure. Former followers claim that recruitment strategies include knocking on doors, focusing on members’ families, and approaching people outside of train stations. According to the spokeswoman, trading religious artefacts for donations has made Japan its main source of funding for many years. According to a lawyers’ association, these ‘spiritual sales’ by the Unification Church and other organisations cost followers close to $1 billion and led to almost 35,000 compensation claims since 1987. After some members were found guilty of using unethical sales techniques, the church had vowed not to solicit excessive donations. According to his social media posts and news reports, the murder suspect for Abe said the church convinced his mother to give the equivalent of $736,000. Following the incident, the church said it had given the mother back about $400,000 in cash. It refused to remark on the exact amount and denied forcing her. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Japanese PM Kishida reshuffles cabinet as approval ratings slide. What's the backstory?

Amid street and social media protests that the state should not fund ceremonies for Japan's longest-serving leader, the Japanese government said on Friday it would hold a state funeral for former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on September 27.

In an incident that deeply shocked Japan, the country's longest-serving leader was gunned down two weeks ago at a campaign rally.

The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) announced that a state funeral will be held for Abe at the Nippon Budokan in central Tokyo even though his funeral was held after his death.

Kyodo News agency quoted chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno as saying, "We made this decision, as has been said before, due to Abe's record as the longest-serving prime minister, during which he exerted leadership skills distinctive from others and bore heavy responsibility for dealing with a number of serious domestic and international issues."

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The news agency reported approximately 200 people gathered near the PM's office in Tokyo to protest the decision.

From the use of taxpayer funds to complaints the government may seek to make political capital of Abe's death, the Japanese people raised several objections.

With successive funerals paid for partly by the state and partly by the LDP, the last state funeral for an ex-prime minister paid for fully by state funds was in 1967.

Saying there should have been more discussion before making a decision, 50 people filed for an injunction in a Tokyo court seeking a halt to the use of public funds for the event.

In a recent public opinion poll by public broadcaster NHK, only 49 per cent supported the idea of a state funeral.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amid street and social media protests that the state should not fund ceremonies for Japan's longest-serving leader, the Japanese government said on Friday it would hold a state funeral for former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on September 27.

Amid street and social media protests that the state should not fund ceremonies for Japan's longest-serving leader, the Japanese government said on Friday it would hold a state funeral for former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on September 27. In an incident that deeply shocked Japan, the country's longest-serving leader was gunned down two weeks ago at a campaign rally. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) announced that a state funeral will be held for Abe at the Nippon Budokan in central Tokyo even though his funeral was held after his death. Kyodo News agency quoted chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno as saying, "We made this decision, as has been said before, due to Abe's record as the longest-serving prime minister, during which he exerted leadership skills distinctive from others and bore heavy responsibility for dealing with a number of serious domestic and international issues." × The news agency reported approximately 200 people gathered near the PM's office in Tokyo to protest the decision. From the use of taxpayer funds to complaints the government may seek to make political capital of Abe's death, the Japanese people raised several objections. With successive funerals paid for partly by the state and partly by the LDP, the last state funeral for an ex-prime minister paid for fully by state funds was in 1967. Saying there should have been more discussion before making a decision, 50 people filed for an injunction in a Tokyo court seeking a halt to the use of public funds for the event. In a recent public opinion poll by public broadcaster NHK, only 49 per cent supported the idea of a state funeral. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Japanese government's decision to fund Shinzo Abe's funeral sparks protests

In what seems like a celebration&nbsp;of Shinzo Abe’s death, several photos are doing the rounds on Chinese social media where the youths can be seen mimicking the killer of the Japanese leader and posting the pictures online to create a “trend”. The youth reportedly consider it “fun to dress and strike pose the same way as the killer”.

According to ANI news agency, the youth in China are creating short videos and dressing like the shooter to hail the assassination of the former Japanese prime minister.

The Chinese disdain for the Japanese leader is well known as this is not the first time that China was seen “celebrating” the assassination of Abe.

On July 8, as soon as the news of Abe’s death shocked the world, the Chinese were seen hailing the killer and started sending death wishes to him on Weibo.

Badiucao —a Chinese political cartoonist, artist and rights activist based in Australia—shared the post was shared on his Twitter handle, showing screenshots of various Chinese social media accounts celebrating the attack on the former PM.

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Chinese nationalists on Weibo have began to celebrate that Japan’s ex PM Abe is shot during campaign today. 
 
they call the attacker “hero” and send death wish to Abe 
 
photo credit <a href="https://twitter.com/MachineGun____?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MachineGun____</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheGreatTranslationMovement?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheGreatTranslationMovement</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E5%A4%A7%E7%BF%BB%E8%AF%91%E8%BF%90%E5%8A%A8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#大翻译运动</a> <a href="https://t.co/K4cxtQd0pi">pic.twitter.com/K4cxtQd0pi</a>
— 巴丢草 Badiucao (@badiucao) <a href="https://twitter.com/badiucao/status/1545249070029377537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"I hope it is the current Japanese PM got shot)... and Korean one too," one of the user said.

"Thank you anti-Japan hero (the attacker) "Can i laugh?" commented another. While one from WeChat said, "Party Time", adding that "hope the men have trouble, hope the gun is fine" and "f*** I am so happy".

Abe died hours after he was shot while delivering a campaign speech in Nara city. The attacker was later identified as Tetsuya Yamagami, a 41-year-old resident of Nara City and an ex-marine.

He was soon detained and made no attempts to escape from the spot. During interrogation, he claimed that he was dissatisfied with the former prime minister.

According to local media reports, Yamagami was a member of Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force where he served for three years till 2005.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In what seems like a celebration of Shinzo Abe’s death, several photos are doing the rounds on Chinese social media where the youths can be seen mimicking the killer of the Japanese leader and posting the pictures online to create a “trend”.

In what seems like a celebration of Shinzo Abe’s death, several photos are doing the rounds on Chinese social media where the youths can be seen mimicking the killer of the Japanese leader and posting the pictures online to create a “trend”. The youth reportedly consider it “fun to dress and strike pose the same way as the killer”. According to ANI news agency, the youth in China are creating short videos and dressing like the shooter to hail the assassination of the former Japanese prime minister. The Chinese disdain for the Japanese leader is well known as this is not the first time that China was seen “celebrating” the assassination of Abe. On July 8, as soon as the news of Abe’s death shocked the world, the Chinese were seen hailing the killer and started sending death wishes to him on Weibo. Badiucao —a Chinese political cartoonist, artist and rights activist based in Australia—shared the post was shared on his Twitter handle, showing screenshots of various Chinese social media accounts celebrating the attack on the former PM. Chinese nationalists on Weibo have began to celebrate that Japan’s ex PM Abe is shot during campaign today. they call the attacker “hero” and send death wish to Abe photo credit @MachineGun____ #TheGreatTranslationMovement #大翻译运动 pic.twitter.com/K4cxtQd0pi — 巴丢草 Badiucao (@badiucao) July 8, 2022 × "I hope it is the current Japanese PM got shot)... and Korean one too," one of the user said. "Thank you anti-Japan hero (the attacker) "Can i laugh?" commented another. While one from WeChat said, "Party Time", adding that "hope the men have trouble, hope the gun is fine" and "f*** I am so happy". Abe died hours after he was shot while delivering a campaign speech in Nara city. The attacker was later identified as Tetsuya Yamagami, a 41-year-old resident of Nara City and an ex-marine. He was soon detained and made no attempts to escape from the spot. During interrogation, he claimed that he was dissatisfied with the former prime minister. According to local media reports, Yamagami was a member of Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force where he served for three years till 2005. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chinese youth mimic Shinzo Abe’s killer, create ‘trend’ to hail assassination

In the 2.5 seconds between a missing first shot and the second round of gunfire that killed him, Shinzo Abe could have been rescued by bodyguards if they had sheltered him or moved him out of harm's way, according to eight security experts who watched the video of the former Japanese leader's murder. The inability to shield Abe from the second bullet came after what seemed to be a string of security blunders prior to the killing of Japan's longest-serving prime leader on July 8, according to Japanese and foreign experts.

The murder of Abe in the western city of Nara by a man using a homemade weapon stunned a society where there is little gun violence and candidates for office run unprotected and close to the general public. Security breaches have been admitted by Japanese authorities, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and police say they are looking into them.

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The shooter, 41-year-old Tetsuya Yamagami, was allowed by his security detail to approach 67-year-old Abe unchecked and within a few metres of him, while carrying a weapon, the video showed. Police have identified Yamagami as the shooter. The National Police Agency, which is in charge of local police forces, claimed that Abe's murder was the result of the police's failure to uphold their duty and declared that it had formed a team to review security and protection protocols and to think through specific actions to avoid a repeat of such a grave incident.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

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In the 2.5 seconds between a missing first shot and the second round of gunfire that killed him, Shinzo Abe could have been rescued by bodyguards if they had sheltered him or moved him out of harm's way, according to eight security experts who watched the video of the former Japanese leader's murder.

In the 2.5 seconds between a missing first shot and the second round of gunfire that killed him, Shinzo Abe could have been rescued by bodyguards if they had sheltered him or moved him out of harm's way, according to eight security experts who watched the video of the former Japanese leader's murder. The inability to shield Abe from the second bullet came after what seemed to be a string of security blunders prior to the killing of Japan's longest-serving prime leader on July 8, according to Japanese and foreign experts. The murder of Abe in the western city of Nara by a man using a homemade weapon stunned a society where there is little gun violence and candidates for office run unprotected and close to the general public. Security breaches have been admitted by Japanese authorities, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and police say they are looking into them. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn The shooter, 41-year-old Tetsuya Yamagami, was allowed by his security detail to approach 67-year-old Abe unchecked and within a few metres of him, while carrying a weapon, the video showed. Police have identified Yamagami as the shooter. The National Police Agency, which is in charge of local police forces, claimed that Abe's murder was the result of the police's failure to uphold their duty and declared that it had formed a team to review security and protection protocols and to think through specific actions to avoid a repeat of such a grave incident. (with inputs from agencies)

Shinzo Abe assassination: 2.5 seconds between missed first shot and second round of gunfire

Despite the good, the bad and the ugly of Abe-San's past, his contribution to the Japanese polity and the Indo-Pacific regional order is irrefutable.

It was 17th-century Mughal prince Dara Shikoh’s book Majma-ul-Bahrain which was paid homage by former Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, who used its title as a metaphor to redesign the “Asia-Pacific” into the “Indo-Pacific” on the Indian soil. Clearly, Abe-San (attributed as the ‘father of QUAD’) brought India to the heart of his Indo-Pacific policy as part of his famous speech, “Confluence of the Two Seas” in the Indian Parliament in 2007. Last week, the longest serving Prime Minister of Japan and one of the most influential leaders of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) of Japan was gunned down during an election campaigning speech. This comes as a severe jolt to the Japanese populace in a country with a rank under the top 10 peaceful countries in the world along with tight gun laws and where political violence predates the pre-World War period. The last time such an assassination took place in a developed country was in 1986 when the Swedish Prime Minister, Olof Palme, was killed by a gunshot.

The former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe was one of the tallest leaders in the history of Japan with his fair share of controversies. Hailing from a mammoth political dynasty in Japan, Abe-San had a dynamic and consequential political career. Here, a case in point is his two grandfathers on either side who had diametrically opposing views/ideologies on Japan’s policy. Abe’s worldview on Japan’s military has been tilted towards his maternal grandfather, Nobosuke Kishi’s militaristic/hawkish stance (Kishi was nicknamed ‘Monster of the Showa era’ in Northeast China for his ruthless rule). In his speeches, he rarely mentioned his paternal grandfather Kan-Abe who was known for his dovish stance- as a symbol of peace, actively campaigning against Japan’s involvement in World War II. When the Japanese Constitution was rewritten to usher in democratic reforms in the post-war period after its unconditional surrender, Article 9 was included in it to forever renounce war and not to maintain any war potential land, sea or air forces. Shinzo Abe had always tried to amend the Japanese Constitution in favour of the military recognising new geopolitical realities of the 21st century.

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Several Japanese Prime Ministers, before Abe, had apologised to other nations for Imperial Japan’s war crimes during World War II. However, Abe either forwent mentioning such horrors or plainly refuted them. He even downplayed the issue of ‘comfort women’ – it is estimated that around 200,000 Asian women from China and South Korea were kidnapped and treated as slaves for the Japanese soldiers in ‘comfort stations’ during World War II. The South Korean and Japanese governments are also embroiled in economic disputes at the World Trade Organisation over forced labour, environmental concerns etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;Abe was also criticised for his anti-China strategies in the Indo-Pacific region by the Chinese Communist Party. Thus, the calls for the celebration were rampant in nationalist sections of Chinese and South Korean media over his death.

Despite the above-mentioned controversies, Abe is considered an outstanding leader because of his astute statesmanship and far-reaching vision in society, economy and international relations. He was known as one of the greatest champions and leaders of the liberal order in Asia. He made Japan the ‘quintessential smart power’ and made it punch above its diplomatic and economic weight through his regional diplomacy and what is known as, ‘Abenomics’, at the domestic level. When Abe returned to power in 2012 for the second time, Japan was undergoing a recession and had lost its position as the largest Asian economy to China and India. Through ‘Abenomics’,&nbsp;&nbsp;He revived the Japanese economy via three major strategies or the ‘three arrows’ - ultra low-interest rates, easy government spending and structural economic reforms to boost productivity. &nbsp;

On the regional front, while America was ‘pivoting to Asia’ and India was ‘looking East’, Abe made Japan ‘look West’ and built strong coalitions with India, Australia and ASEAN nations in order to strengthen the ‘arc of democracy’ against aggressive Chinese actions in the region. Former US President Donald Trump 2017 borrowed Abe’s phrase of a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific’ in his Vietnam visit. QUAD 2.0 was created with India having 2+2 dialogue mechanisms with all three QUAD members, namely Japan, USA and Australia. Apart from the historical &nbsp;Japanese Overseas Development Aid (ODA) to India moving to a special strategic and global partnership between the two nations, the relationship towers Delhi Metro, bullet train projects and Indo-Japan peaceful nuclear deal. Abe together with PM Modi launched the Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC) to provide alternatives to the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative in the region along with joint projects in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. To buttress such regional frameworks, the present governments of Japan and India have also collaborated on Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) with Australia in 2021 and the recently concluded Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) with USA and others in 2022.

Abe’s vision in his ‘Confluence of the Two Seas’ speech can be easily seen as the precursor to the aforementioned multilateralism and transparent networks in the Indo-Pacific region. Today when nations like India, Australia, the USA and others pay a fitting tribute in honour of Shinzo Abe, nations like China share a complicated history with the dynasty he hails from. Even in moments of sharing condolences during such events, the media narratives of the Indo-Pacific nations are becoming more and more polarised; being rarely on the same page subtly hinting at the divisions in the region. In spite of all the hue and cry over certain political scandals, Abe’s glorious diplomatic and political footprints cannot be wiped away. This is also cemented by the outpour of tribute messages worldwide as well as the victory of the LDP coalition in the latest Japanese parliamentary elections.

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Despite the good, the bad and the ugly of Abe-San's past, his contribution to the Japanese polity and the Indo-Pacific regional order is irrefutable. It was 17th-century Mughal prince Dara Shikoh’s book Majma-ul-Bahrain which was paid homage by former Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, who used its title as a metaphor to redesign the “Asia-Pacific” into the “Indo-Pacific” on the Indian soil.

Despite the good, the bad and the ugly of Abe-San's past, his contribution to the Japanese polity and the Indo-Pacific regional order is irrefutable. It was 17th-century Mughal prince Dara Shikoh’s book Majma-ul-Bahrain which was paid homage by former Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, who used its title as a metaphor to redesign the “Asia-Pacific” into the “Indo-Pacific” on the Indian soil. Clearly, Abe-San (attributed as the ‘father of QUAD’) brought India to the heart of his Indo-Pacific policy as part of his famous speech, “Confluence of the Two Seas” in the Indian Parliament in 2007. Last week, the longest serving Prime Minister of Japan and one of the most influential leaders of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) of Japan was gunned down during an election campaigning speech. This comes as a severe jolt to the Japanese populace in a country with a rank under the top 10 peaceful countries in the world along with tight gun laws and where political violence predates the pre-World War period. The last time such an assassination took place in a developed country was in 1986 when the Swedish Prime Minister, Olof Palme, was killed by a gunshot. The former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe was one of the tallest leaders in the history of Japan with his fair share of controversies. Hailing from a mammoth political dynasty in Japan, Abe-San had a dynamic and consequential political career. Here, a case in point is his two grandfathers on either side who had diametrically opposing views/ideologies on Japan’s policy. Abe’s worldview on Japan’s military has been tilted towards his maternal grandfather, Nobosuke Kishi’s militaristic/hawkish stance (Kishi was nicknamed ‘Monster of the Showa era’ in Northeast China for his ruthless rule). In his speeches, he rarely mentioned his paternal grandfather Kan-Abe who was known for his dovish stance- as a symbol of peace, actively campaigning against Japan’s involvement in World War II. When the Japanese Constitution was rewritten to usher in democratic reforms in the post-war period after its unconditional surrender, Article 9 was included in it to forever renounce war and not to maintain any war potential land, sea or air forces. Shinzo Abe had always tried to amend the Japanese Constitution in favour of the military recognising new geopolitical realities of the 21st century. Also Read: Is it time for 'the big default'? Dozen countries moving towards economic collapse Several Japanese Prime Ministers, before Abe, had apologised to other nations for Imperial Japan’s war crimes during World War II. However, Abe either forwent mentioning such horrors or plainly refuted them. He even downplayed the issue of ‘comfort women’ – it is estimated that around 200,000 Asian women from China and South Korea were kidnapped and treated as slaves for the Japanese soldiers in ‘comfort stations’ during World War II. The South Korean and Japanese governments are also embroiled in economic disputes at the World Trade Organisation over forced labour, environmental concerns etc. Abe was also criticised for his anti-China strategies in the Indo-Pacific region by the Chinese Communist Party. Thus, the calls for the celebration were rampant in nationalist sections of Chinese and South Korean media over his death. Despite the above-mentioned controversies, Abe is considered an outstanding leader because of his astute statesmanship and far-reaching vision in society, economy and international relations. He was known as one of the greatest champions and leaders of the liberal order in Asia. He made Japan the ‘quintessential smart power’ and made it punch above its diplomatic and economic weight through his regional diplomacy and what is known as, ‘Abenomics’, at the domestic level. When Abe returned to power in 2012 for the second time, Japan was undergoing a recession and had lost its position as the largest Asian economy to China and India. Through ‘Abenomics’, He revived the Japanese economy via three major strategies or the ‘three arrows’ - ultra low-interest rates, easy government spending and structural economic reforms to boost productivity. On the regional front, while America was ‘pivoting to Asia’ and India was ‘looking East’, Abe made Japan ‘look West’ and built strong coalitions with India, Australia and ASEAN nations in order to strengthen the ‘arc of democracy’ against aggressive Chinese actions in the region. Former US President Donald Trump 2017 borrowed Abe’s phrase of a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific’ in his Vietnam visit. QUAD 2.0 was created with India having 2+2 dialogue mechanisms with all three QUAD members, namely Japan, USA and Australia. Apart from the historical Japanese Overseas Development Aid (ODA) to India moving to a special strategic and global partnership between the two nations, the relationship towers Delhi Metro, bullet train projects and Indo-Japan peaceful nuclear deal. Abe together with PM Modi launched the Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC) to provide alternatives to the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative in the region along with joint projects in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. To buttress such regional frameworks, the present governments of Japan and India have also collaborated on Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) with Australia in 2021 and the recently concluded Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) with USA and others in 2022. Abe’s vision in his ‘Confluence of the Two Seas’ speech can be easily seen as the precursor to the aforementioned multilateralism and transparent networks in the Indo-Pacific region. Today when nations like India, Australia, the USA and others pay a fitting tribute in honour of Shinzo Abe, nations like China share a complicated history with the dynasty he hails from. Even in moments of sharing condolences during such events, the media narratives of the Indo-Pacific nations are becoming more and more polarised; being rarely on the same page subtly hinting at the divisions in the region. In spite of all the hue and cry over certain political scandals, Abe’s glorious diplomatic and political footprints cannot be wiped away. This is also cemented by the outpour of tribute messages worldwide as well as the victory of the LDP coalition in the latest Japanese parliamentary elections. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shinzo Abe- The Architect of the 21st century Indo-Pacific Order

Shinzo Abe, who put the country of Japan on the path of development, which was suffering from economic deprivation, is no more. He was shot. An era has ended in a long political reign. At the same time, he came to Japan as a man of steel till the end. His passion for his country made him a great leader.

He stood by Taiwan. Then he established good relations with the world. He played a key role in maintaining peace. He protested the war.

He unconditionally condemned China for unilateral attacks. Not only that, he resisted. Bahusha must think that China is breathing a sigh of relief today with the death of Shinzo Ambe.

Shinzo Abe has played a key role in strengthening the country in all areas. The way he transformed himself from a person to a supreme leader is remarkable.

Like every political leader, Shinzo had his flaws. But it must be said that his efforts in making the country move forward and introducing reforms are unparalleled.

He served as Prime Minister of Japan for a long time. Shinzo Abe succeeded in making Japan recover from the devastating earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster.

He put the financial system on track. He paved the way for the future of the country. He resigned from the post of Prime Minister due to illness. He was the Prime Minister for eight years.

Before him, the country saw six prime ministers in six years. But no prime minister has been as influential as Shinzo Abe. He made Japan recover from a nuclear disaster.

He strengthened the financial system. He breathed life into the defence sector. He has allocated more in the budget. He walked alongside then-US President Donald Trump.

He continued friendly relations with India. Against China. He showed him the dots for that country. He stood by Taiwan.

The whole world today mourns the loss of a great leader and even more so, a giant of faith in the future. 
 
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Shinzo Abe, who put the country of Japan on the path of development, which was suffering from economic deprivation, is no more. He was shot. An era has ended in a long political reign.

Shinzo Abe, who put the country of Japan on the path of development, which was suffering from economic deprivation, is no more. He was shot. An era has ended in a long political reign. At the same time, he came to Japan as a man of steel till the end. His passion for his country made him a great leader. He stood by Taiwan. Then he established good relations with the world. He played a key role in maintaining peace. He protested the war. He unconditionally condemned China for unilateral attacks. Not only that, he resisted. Bahusha must think that China is breathing a sigh of relief today with the death of Shinzo Ambe. Shinzo Abe has played a key role in strengthening the country in all areas. The way he transformed himself from a person to a supreme leader is remarkable. Like every political leader, Shinzo had his flaws. But it must be said that his efforts in making the country move forward and introducing reforms are unparalleled. He served as Prime Minister of Japan for a long time. Shinzo Abe succeeded in making Japan recover from the devastating earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster. He put the financial system on track. He paved the way for the future of the country. He resigned from the post of Prime Minister due to illness. He was the Prime Minister for eight years. Before him, the country saw six prime ministers in six years. But no prime minister has been as influential as Shinzo Abe. He made Japan recover from a nuclear disaster. He strengthened the financial system. He breathed life into the defence sector. He has allocated more in the budget. He walked alongside then-US President Donald Trump. He continued friendly relations with India. Against China. He showed him the dots for that country. He stood by Taiwan. The whole world today mourns the loss of a great leader and even more so, a giant of faith in the future. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shinzo, the lost giant: An irreversible disaster for Japan

The mystery around Shinzo Abe's assassination is getting more intense. His killer Tetsuya Yamagami says Abe's links to a religious cult motivated his actions. Which cult is he talking about? How was Abe linked to it? Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Shinzo Abe's killer claims cult link behind murder

Mourners streamed into a temple in Tokyo to pay their respects to Japan's former PM Shinzo Abe on Monday, as his assassination overshadowed an election win for the ruling party he had dominated.

Japan: Mourners throng Shinzo Abe's wake as his party secures election win

Japan will vote in upper house elections on Sunday. The election will have implications for Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's grip on the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

What's at stake in Japan's election

Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting. Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, was detained by police on Friday at the scene of the incident. Although he has not been legally charged, they still claim him to be the suspect, reported CNN.

As per NHK, the suspect admitted to investigators that his initial plan involved deploying explosives to assassinate Abe during a gathering in Okayama, a prefecture that is three hours away from Nara. In conversation with CNN, Nara prefecture said that the suspect was seen by surveillance cameras leaving the Yamato-Saidaiji station in the city after boarding the train and travelling to the campaign.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-ruling-coalition-party-achieves-significant-victory-following-shinzo-abes-death-496222">Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling&nbsp;coalition party achieves significant victory</a>

Tomoaki Onizuka, the head of the police department, declared that he "can't deny there were problems" with Abe's security, and that he "take[s] responsibility" for the mishap. In his emotional statement, the head further added, "After the first report of the incident came ... it was the height of the guilt and regret I've felt in my 27 years in law enforcement." "I feel the weight of my responsibility."

Watch |&nbsp;Councillors Elections: Japan's ruling coalition makes strong election showing

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Since Abe’s passing, mourners have gathered and laid flowers at a temporary monument outside the Yamato-Saidaiji station in Nara, close to the location of the former leader’s murder.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-loss-shadows-polls-but-japan-says-it-not-halt-the-democratic-process-496055">Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process'</a>

World leaders have extended condolences in response to Abe’s murder, expressing their outrage and sorrow. According to NHK, his widow Akie Abe will host the burial at a temple in Tokyo, with attendance restricted to family members and close friends of the former prime minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting.

Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting. Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, was detained by police on Friday at the scene of the incident. Although he has not been legally charged, they still claim him to be the suspect, reported CNN. As per NHK, the suspect admitted to investigators that his initial plan involved deploying explosives to assassinate Abe during a gathering in Okayama, a prefecture that is three hours away from Nara. In conversation with CNN, Nara prefecture said that the suspect was seen by surveillance cameras leaving the Yamato-Saidaiji station in the city after boarding the train and travelling to the campaign. Also read | Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling coalition party achieves significant victory Tomoaki Onizuka, the head of the police department, declared that he "can't deny there were problems" with Abe's security, and that he "take[s] responsibility" for the mishap. In his emotional statement, the head further added, "After the first report of the incident came ... it was the height of the guilt and regret I've felt in my 27 years in law enforcement." "I feel the weight of my responsibility." Watch | Councillors Elections: Japan's ruling coalition makes strong election showing Since Abe’s passing, mourners have gathered and laid flowers at a temporary monument outside the Yamato-Saidaiji station in Nara, close to the location of the former leader’s murder. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process' World leaders have extended condolences in response to Abe’s murder, expressing their outrage and sorrow. According to NHK, his widow Akie Abe will host the burial at a temple in Tokyo, with attendance restricted to family members and close friends of the former prime minister. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japanese police say suspect's initial plan was to deploy explosions to assassinate Shinzo Abe

The man who killed Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was motivated by anger towards a religious cult that he blamed for the loss of his family’s fortune.

Shooter targeted former Japan PM Shinzo Abe over cult link

Voters in japan are casting their ballots in an upper house election. Ruling coalition is looking to keep control of the house. Will Shinzo Abe's assassination affect Japan's elections?

Voters cast their ballot in Japan polls | Ruling LDP set for strong election show

Voters cast their ballot in Japan polls, ruling LDP set for strong election show

Shinzo Abe was born in Tokyo in 1954 into political royalty. His father was foreign minister and grandfather was PM. Abe officially entered politics in 1982. Watch this report!

Shinzo Abe assassinated: Japan's longest-serving & youngest post-war PM

Japan's ruling coalition is projected to have won the most votes in an election held just two days after the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, local media said Sunday. The ex-premier's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito are expected to claim between 70 and 83 of the 125 upper house seats up for grabs, according to national broadcaster NHK. Even before Abe's murder, the LDP and Komeito were expected to cement their majority, though the final number of seats will be scrutinised for signs of whether the attack bolstered support for them. 
&nbsp; 
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told NHK, "I think it is significant we were able to complete the elections." He had insisted the election proceed despite the assassination, saying "we must never allow violence to suppress speech." Abe was gunned down at close range on Friday in the western region of Nara and died of blood loss at a local hospital. His body was brought to his family home in Tokyo on Saturday. The assassination rattled the nation and sent shockwaves around the world, prompting an outpouring of sympathy even from nations with which the hawkish Abe had sometimes difficult relations, like China and South Korea.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-elon-musks-hyperloop-still-popular-even-after-decade-of-setback-496171">Why is Elon Musk's 'hyperloop' still popular even after decade of setback?</a> 
&nbsp; 
Abe, Japan's longest-serving prime minister, who sought to lift the economy out of chronic deflation with his bold "Abenomics" policies, beef up the military and counter China's growing clout, died after being gunned down during a campaign speech two days before the election. The death of the namesake of Japan's "Abenomics" policy makes any immediate challenge to Abe's legacy highly unlikely but could eventually allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to phase out Abe's government spending and monetary stimulus.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Kishida, 64, was once described as among Abe's favoured successors and holds a solid majority in parliament with Komeito. But he faces significant policy headwinds, including rising prices and energy shortages, particularly after an early summer heatwave that led to a power crunch. 
&nbsp; 
(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Japan's ruling coalition is projected to have won the most votes in an election held just two days after the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, local media said Sunday.

Japan's ruling coalition is projected to have won the most votes in an election held just two days after the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, local media said Sunday. The ex-premier's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito are expected to claim between 70 and 83 of the 125 upper house seats up for grabs, according to national broadcaster NHK. Even before Abe's murder, the LDP and Komeito were expected to cement their majority, though the final number of seats will be scrutinised for signs of whether the attack bolstered support for them. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told NHK, "I think it is significant we were able to complete the elections." He had insisted the election proceed despite the assassination, saying "we must never allow violence to suppress speech." Abe was gunned down at close range on Friday in the western region of Nara and died of blood loss at a local hospital. His body was brought to his family home in Tokyo on Saturday. The assassination rattled the nation and sent shockwaves around the world, prompting an outpouring of sympathy even from nations with which the hawkish Abe had sometimes difficult relations, like China and South Korea. Also Read: Why is Elon Musk's 'hyperloop' still popular even after decade of setback? Abe, Japan's longest-serving prime minister, who sought to lift the economy out of chronic deflation with his bold "Abenomics" policies, beef up the military and counter China's growing clout, died after being gunned down during a campaign speech two days before the election. The death of the namesake of Japan's "Abenomics" policy makes any immediate challenge to Abe's legacy highly unlikely but could eventually allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to phase out Abe's government spending and monetary stimulus. Kishida, 64, was once described as among Abe's favoured successors and holds a solid majority in parliament with Komeito. But he faces significant policy headwinds, including rising prices and energy shortages, particularly after an early summer heatwave that led to a power crunch. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan election: Kishida's coalition projected to win in wake of Abe's assassination

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said former Japanese premier Shinzo Abe was a trusted friend of India, and will be remembered by the people for years to come. Abe, one of Japan's most important and influential leaders, was shot and killed on Friday in western Japan while giving a campaign address.

Speaking at the first Arun Jaitley Memorial Lecture in this city, Modi paid tribute to Abe and said that the day is one of profound sorrow and unfathomable pain for him because he has lost a good friend.

"Shinzo Abe was not only my friend but a trusted friend of India," Modi said, adding that during Abe's regime, the India-Japan relationship reached new heights and carried forward a shared heritage.

The Prime Minister added that due to Abe's role in India's success story, he will endure in people's hearts for years. In a statement earlier in the day, Modi expressed his condolences for the death of the former Japanese prime minister and announced that India would observe a day of national mourning on July 9 to pay tribute to Abe.

According to Modi, Abe was a great leader, an amazing administrator, and a towering figure in world politics.

"My association with Mr. Abe goes back many years. I had got to know him during my tenure as Gujarat CM and our friendship continued after I became PM. His sharp insights on economy and global affairs always made a deep impression on me," the Prime Minister had said.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said former Japanese premier Shinzo Abe was a trusted friend of India, and will be remembered by the people for years to come.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said former Japanese premier Shinzo Abe was a trusted friend of India, and will be remembered by the people for years to come. Abe, one of Japan's most important and influential leaders, was shot and killed on Friday in western Japan while giving a campaign address. Speaking at the first Arun Jaitley Memorial Lecture in this city, Modi paid tribute to Abe and said that the day is one of profound sorrow and unfathomable pain for him because he has lost a good friend. "Shinzo Abe was not only my friend but a trusted friend of India," Modi said, adding that during Abe's regime, the India-Japan relationship reached new heights and carried forward a shared heritage. The Prime Minister added that due to Abe's role in India's success story, he will endure in people's hearts for years. In a statement earlier in the day, Modi expressed his condolences for the death of the former Japanese prime minister and announced that India would observe a day of national mourning on July 9 to pay tribute to Abe. According to Modi, Abe was a great leader, an amazing administrator, and a towering figure in world politics. "My association with Mr. Abe goes back many years. I had got to know him during my tenure as Gujarat CM and our friendship continued after I became PM. His sharp insights on economy and global affairs always made a deep impression on me," the Prime Minister had said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India will remember Abe as a trusted friend for years, says emotional PM Modi

Polling is underway in Japan for upper house elections, just two days after former prime minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated. Citizens have started queuing up in front of polling booths to cast their votes.

Upper house polls underway in Japan, voters queue up in polling booths

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