North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un is reportedly in a coma. Whereas, Japan PM Shinzo Abe is unwell. Nothing more is known. As always, the secrecy is fuelling speculation. Palki Sharma Upadhyay explains why political leaders refuse to talk about their visit to the doctor.

Gravitas: Why Politicians Keep Illness A Secret

Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe made a second trip to the hospital in a single week. The nature of his ailment is unclear.

He suffers from an inflammatory bowel condition. It ended his first term as prime minister in 2007.

66-year-old, Shinzo Abe, is on medication and his office refuses to share details. The secrecy has sparked speculation. Will Abe be able to finish his term?

In terms of secrecy, North Korea is the master. Supreme leader Kim Jong Un is reportedly in a coma. His disappearance for three weeks in April had raised suspicions over his health.

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He made a reappearance in recent months. But, all those photographs are being declared fake. Possibly those of a body double. Now, there is speculation that Kim Jong Un is dead and that his sister Kim Yo-Jong is preparing to take over.

Chinese president Xi Jinping too has a history of keeping his illness a secret. In 2012, just before taking office, he disappeared for two weeks. There were rumours that he was receiving treatment for heart troubles. Some say there were assassination attempts too.

Russian President Vladimir Putin too went missing. In 2015, for 10 days --- Russians didn't know where he was.

In America, Hillary Clinton made headlines with a fall. In 2016 --- she fainted after a 9/11 memorial service in New York. Authorities said the weather was too hot, but critics said the reason was something else.

In 2019, German chancellor Angela Merkel began to shake vigorously. This was the third bout of shaking in a single month. Merkel insisted she was very well. But she never clarified what happened.

The throne awaits no one. &nbsp;Most politicians have aged perhaps not too well, given the wear and tear of politics.

They have access to first-class medical care. But being seen at a hospital signals a political death. Is that why political leaders are so secretive about their illness?

Hence proved! Politicians are scared of doctors.

Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe made a second trip to the hospital in a single week. The nature of his ailment is unclear. He suffers from an inflammatory bowel condition.

Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe made a second trip to the hospital in a single week. The nature of his ailment is unclear. He suffers from an inflammatory bowel condition. It ended his first term as prime minister in 2007. 66-year-old, Shinzo Abe, is on medication and his office refuses to share details. The secrecy has sparked speculation. Will Abe be able to finish his term? In terms of secrecy, North Korea is the master. Supreme leader Kim Jong Un is reportedly in a coma. His disappearance for three weeks in April had raised suspicions over his health. He made a reappearance in recent months. But, all those photographs are being declared fake. Possibly those of a body double. Now, there is speculation that Kim Jong Un is dead and that his sister Kim Yo-Jong is preparing to take over. Chinese president Xi Jinping too has a history of keeping his illness a secret. In 2012, just before taking office, he disappeared for two weeks. There were rumours that he was receiving treatment for heart troubles. Some say there were assassination attempts too. Russian President Vladimir Putin too went missing. In 2015, for 10 days --- Russians didn't know where he was. In America, Hillary Clinton made headlines with a fall. In 2016 --- she fainted after a 9/11 memorial service in New York. Authorities said the weather was too hot, but critics said the reason was something else. In 2019, German chancellor Angela Merkel began to shake vigorously. This was the third bout of shaking in a single month. Merkel insisted she was very well. But she never clarified what happened. The throne awaits no one. Most politicians have aged perhaps not too well, given the wear and tear of politics. They have access to first-class medical care. But being seen at a hospital signals a political death. Is that why political leaders are so secretive about their illness? Hence proved! Politicians are scared of doctors.

Speculations arise as Shinzo Abe spotted in hospital for second time in a week

Japan PM Shinzo Abe visited hospital twice within a week. Abe is suffering from incurable ulcerative coli. 2007 Bowel illness forced Abe to step down as PM. Shinzo Abe is Japan's longest serving PM.

Shinzo Abe returns to hospital after a week of 7 hr health check up

Japan's longest-serving prime minister, Shinzo Abe, visited a Tokyo hospital on Monday, as concerns grew over his ability to continue in his post, because of health issues and fatigue from handling the coronavirus crisis.

If Abe is incapacitated, Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso, who doubles as finance minister, would take over temporarily. If Abe resigned, he would stay on until formally replaced, which would require the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to elect a new leader, who would then be formally elected in parliament.

Here are details of some likely contenders to take the helm of the world's third-largest economy.

TARO ASO

Finance minister Aso, 79, who also doubles as deputy prime minister, has been a core member of Abe's administration. Without a clear consensus on who should succeed Abe, LDP lawmakers could elect Aso as a temporary leader if Abe resigns.

In 2008, Aso was elected LDP leader and hence, premier, in hopes that he could revive the long-dominant party's fortunes. Instead, the LDP was ousted in a historic election defeat in 2009, languishing in the opposition for the next three years.

The grandson of a former premier, Aso mixes policy experience with a fondness for manga comics and a tendency towards gaffes.

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SHIGERU ISHIBA

A hawkish former defence minister and rare LDP critic of Abe, Ishiba, 63, regularly tops surveys of lawmakers whom voters want to see as the next premier, but is less popular with the party's lawmakers.

The soft-spoken security maven has also held portfolios for agriculture and reviving local economies.

He defeated Abe in the first round of a party presidential election in 2012, thanks to strong grassroots support, but lost in the second round when only MPs could vote. Then, in a 2018 party leadership poll, Ishiba lost heavily to Abe.

He has criticised the Bank of Japan's ultra-low interest rates for hurting regional banks and called for higher public works spending to remedy growing inequality.

FUMIO KISHIDA

Kishida, 63, served as foreign minister under Abe from 2012 to 2017, but diplomacy remained mainly in the prime minister's grip.

The low-key lawmaker from Hiroshima has been widely seen as Abe's preferred successor but ranks low in voter surveys.

Kishida hails from one of the party's more dovish factions and is seen as less keen on revising the post-war constitution's pacifist Article 9 than Abe, for whom it is a cherished goal.

The BOJ's hyper-easy monetary policy "cannot go on forever," Kishida has said.

TARO KONO

Defence Minister Taro Kono, 56, has a reputation as a maverick but has toed the line on key Abe policies, including a stern stance in a feud with South Korea over wartime history.

Educated at Georgetown University and a fluent English speaker, he previously served as foreign minister and minister for administrative reform.

He has differentiated his conservative stances from those of his father, former chief cabinet secretary Yohei Kono, who authored a landmark 1993 apology to “comfort women”, a euphemism for women forced to work in Japan's wartime military brothels.

YOSHIHIDE SUGA

Suga, 71, a self-made politician and loyal lieutenant since Abe's troubled term as premier in 2006 and 2007, was among a band of allies who pushed Abe to run again for the top post in 2012.

Back in office, Abe tapped Suga as chief cabinet secretary, acting as top government spokesman, coordinating policies and keeping bureaucrats in line.

Talk of Suga as a contender bubbled up in April 2019 after he unveiled the new imperial era name, "Reiwa", for use on Japanese calendars after the enthronement of the new emperor.

Suga's clout was dented somewhat by scandals that toppled two cabinet ministers close to him last October.

SHINJIRO KOIZUMI

The name of Koizumi, 39, now environment minister and the son of charismatic former premier Junichiro Koizumi, is often floated as a future premier, but many consider him too young.

He shares some of Abe’s conservative views and has paid his respects at Tokyo's controversial Yasukuni Shrine for war dead.

Koizumi has projected a reforming image on the basis of efforts to cut Japan's backing for coal, the dirtiest fossil fuel, but has typically taken care not to offend party elders.

KATSUNOBU KATO, YASUTOSHI NISHIMURA

As health minister, Kato, 64, was in the limelight in the early days of Japan's coronavirus outbreak but then Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, 57, a former trade official, emerged as point person on virus policy.

In 2015, Kato, a father of four, was handed the portfolio for boosting Japan's rock-bottom birth rate, a task that met little success. He is a former official of the finance ministry.

SEIKO NODA

Noda, 59, has made no secret of her desire to become Japan's first female premier. An Abe critic, the former internal affairs minister, who also held the portfolio for women's empowerment, fell short of backing to join the race for party leader in 2018.

Japan's longest-serving prime minister, Shinzo Abe, visited a Tokyo hospital on Monday, as concerns grew over his ability to continue in his post, because of health issues and fatigue from handling the coronavirus crisis.

Japan's longest-serving prime minister, Shinzo Abe, visited a Tokyo hospital on Monday, as concerns grew over his ability to continue in his post, because of health issues and fatigue from handling the coronavirus crisis. If Abe is incapacitated, Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso, who doubles as finance minister, would take over temporarily. If Abe resigned, he would stay on until formally replaced, which would require the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to elect a new leader, who would then be formally elected in parliament. Here are details of some likely contenders to take the helm of the world's third-largest economy. TARO ASO Finance minister Aso, 79, who also doubles as deputy prime minister, has been a core member of Abe's administration. Without a clear consensus on who should succeed Abe, LDP lawmakers could elect Aso as a temporary leader if Abe resigns. In 2008, Aso was elected LDP leader and hence, premier, in hopes that he could revive the long-dominant party's fortunes. Instead, the LDP was ousted in a historic election defeat in 2009, languishing in the opposition for the next three years. The grandson of a former premier, Aso mixes policy experience with a fondness for manga comics and a tendency towards gaffes. SHIGERU ISHIBA A hawkish former defence minister and rare LDP critic of Abe, Ishiba, 63, regularly tops surveys of lawmakers whom voters want to see as the next premier, but is less popular with the party's lawmakers. The soft-spoken security maven has also held portfolios for agriculture and reviving local economies. He defeated Abe in the first round of a party presidential election in 2012, thanks to strong grassroots support, but lost in the second round when only MPs could vote. Then, in a 2018 party leadership poll, Ishiba lost heavily to Abe. He has criticised the Bank of Japan's ultra-low interest rates for hurting regional banks and called for higher public works spending to remedy growing inequality. FUMIO KISHIDA Kishida, 63, served as foreign minister under Abe from 2012 to 2017, but diplomacy remained mainly in the prime minister's grip. The low-key lawmaker from Hiroshima has been widely seen as Abe's preferred successor but ranks low in voter surveys. Kishida hails from one of the party's more dovish factions and is seen as less keen on revising the post-war constitution's pacifist Article 9 than Abe, for whom it is a cherished goal. The BOJ's hyper-easy monetary policy "cannot go on forever," Kishida has said. TARO KONO Defence Minister Taro Kono, 56, has a reputation as a maverick but has toed the line on key Abe policies, including a stern stance in a feud with South Korea over wartime history. Educated at Georgetown University and a fluent English speaker, he previously served as foreign minister and minister for administrative reform. He has differentiated his conservative stances from those of his father, former chief cabinet secretary Yohei Kono, who authored a landmark 1993 apology to “comfort women”, a euphemism for women forced to work in Japan's wartime military brothels. YOSHIHIDE SUGA Suga, 71, a self-made politician and loyal lieutenant since Abe's troubled term as premier in 2006 and 2007, was among a band of allies who pushed Abe to run again for the top post in 2012. Back in office, Abe tapped Suga as chief cabinet secretary, acting as top government spokesman, coordinating policies and keeping bureaucrats in line. Talk of Suga as a contender bubbled up in April 2019 after he unveiled the new imperial era name, "Reiwa", for use on Japanese calendars after the enthronement of the new emperor. Suga's clout was dented somewhat by scandals that toppled two cabinet ministers close to him last October. SHINJIRO KOIZUMI The name of Koizumi, 39, now environment minister and the son of charismatic former premier Junichiro Koizumi, is often floated as a future premier, but many consider him too young. He shares some of Abe’s conservative views and has paid his respects at Tokyo's controversial Yasukuni Shrine for war dead. Koizumi has projected a reforming image on the basis of efforts to cut Japan's backing for coal, the dirtiest fossil fuel, but has typically taken care not to offend party elders. KATSUNOBU KATO, YASUTOSHI NISHIMURA As health minister, Kato, 64, was in the limelight in the early days of Japan's coronavirus outbreak but then Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, 57, a former trade official, emerged as point person on virus policy. In 2015, Kato, a father of four, was handed the portfolio for boosting Japan's rock-bottom birth rate, a task that met little success. He is a former official of the finance ministry. SEIKO NODA Noda, 59, has made no secret of her desire to become Japan's first female premier. An Abe critic, the former internal affairs minister, who also held the portfolio for women's empowerment, fell short of backing to join the race for party leader in 2018.

How possible successors stack up if Japan PM Abe resigns

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday returned from a second hospital visit in a few days, which had stoked concern about his health. He said he wanted to do everything to maintain his health and do his utmost at his job.

Abe, who has been the target of deepening speculation that he may resign due to his health issues, on Monday visited a Tokyo hospital for the second time within days.

He was speaking to reporters after returning to his official residence from the hospital.

Government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said Abe was at the hospital for the follow-up of a medical check a week ago when his examination lasted 7-1/2 hours, fuelling worries about his health.

But major broadcaster Nippon TV said Abe was being treated for a chronic illness rather than a check-up, citing multiple unidentified government and ruling party sources. It added that Abe was scheduled to go to his office in the afternoon.

"I was informed that he`s getting an additional exam after last week`s exam," Suga, who is also the chief cabinet secretary and is seen as one of the main contenders for Abe`s job, told a regular news conference.

"The premier himself said the other day that he wanted to return to work."

Abe is Japan`s longest-serving prime minister, surpassing on Monday a record for longest consecutive tenure as premier that is now half a century old and set by his great-uncle Eisaku Sato.

That achievement added to speculation that Abe could resign after reaching the milestone.

In office since 2012 in his second stint as prime minister, Abe had resigned from his first term in 2007 because of struggles with ulcerative colitis, which he now keeps in check with medicine that was not previously available.

The prime minister`s office did not give a detailed explanation of his hospital visits, but close aide Health Minister Katsunobu Kato said last week`s visit was a regular check-up and he was "not at all" worried about Abe`s health.

Abe has suffered a slide in public opinion polls to one of the lowest levels since he took power, fuelled by what respondents see as his haphazard handling of the coronavirus and a string of scandals.

Japanese media have speculated about Abe`s health this month, including detailed reports on his walking speed.

Weekly magazine Flash said Abe had vomited blood at his office on July 6. Reuters was unable to verify the widely cited report, which was denied by government officials.

Abe gets a regular check-up twice a year, with his most recent on June 13, Kyodo news agency said, adding that last week`s visit was a follow-up to a June check-up, citing a hospital source.

If Abe is incapacitated, Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso, who doubles as finance minister, will take over temporarily as acting prime minister.

If Abe says he has decided to resign, he will stay on until formally replaced, which requires a ruling Liberal Democratic Party presidential election, followed by the winner`s formal election in parliament.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday returned from a second hospital visit in a few days, which had stoked concern about his health. He said he wanted to do everything to maintain his health and do his utmost at his job.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday returned from a second hospital visit in a few days, which had stoked concern about his health. He said he wanted to do everything to maintain his health and do his utmost at his job. Abe, who has been the target of deepening speculation that he may resign due to his health issues, on Monday visited a Tokyo hospital for the second time within days. He was speaking to reporters after returning to his official residence from the hospital. Government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said Abe was at the hospital for the follow-up of a medical check a week ago when his examination lasted 7-1/2 hours, fuelling worries about his health. But major broadcaster Nippon TV said Abe was being treated for a chronic illness rather than a check-up, citing multiple unidentified government and ruling party sources. It added that Abe was scheduled to go to his office in the afternoon. "I was informed that he`s getting an additional exam after last week`s exam," Suga, who is also the chief cabinet secretary and is seen as one of the main contenders for Abe`s job, told a regular news conference. "The premier himself said the other day that he wanted to return to work." Abe is Japan`s longest-serving prime minister, surpassing on Monday a record for longest consecutive tenure as premier that is now half a century old and set by his great-uncle Eisaku Sato. That achievement added to speculation that Abe could resign after reaching the milestone. In office since 2012 in his second stint as prime minister, Abe had resigned from his first term in 2007 because of struggles with ulcerative colitis, which he now keeps in check with medicine that was not previously available. The prime minister`s office did not give a detailed explanation of his hospital visits, but close aide Health Minister Katsunobu Kato said last week`s visit was a regular check-up and he was "not at all" worried about Abe`s health. Abe has suffered a slide in public opinion polls to one of the lowest levels since he took power, fuelled by what respondents see as his haphazard handling of the coronavirus and a string of scandals. Japanese media have speculated about Abe`s health this month, including detailed reports on his walking speed. Weekly magazine Flash said Abe had vomited blood at his office on July 6. Reuters was unable to verify the widely cited report, which was denied by government officials. Abe gets a regular check-up twice a year, with his most recent on June 13, Kyodo news agency said, adding that last week`s visit was a follow-up to a June check-up, citing a hospital source. If Abe is incapacitated, Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso, who doubles as finance minister, will take over temporarily as acting prime minister. If Abe says he has decided to resign, he will stay on until formally replaced, which requires a ruling Liberal Democratic Party presidential election, followed by the winner`s formal election in parliament. (with inputs from Reuters)

Another hospital visit by Japan PM Abe stokes health worries

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who suffers from an inflammatory bowel disease, returned from a check-up at a Tokyo hospital

Shinzo Abe second hospital visit in a week | Japan PM | Shinzo Abe hospitalised

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe went through a medical check-up on Monday after he had been complaining of fatigue due to heavy workload due to coronavirus emergency.

Abe was spotted entering&nbsp;Tokyo's Keio University Hospital on Monday morning, and local media reported he might return home by late evening.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-faces-ww2-anniversary-in-shadow-of-coronavirus-319862">Also read:&nbsp;Japan faces WW2 anniversary in shadow of coronavirus</a>

The local media believes it is a regular check-up that Abe goes through twice a year. However, the visit has come after&nbsp;Akira Amari, chairman of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party`s tax panel, said that Abe has been suffering from fatigue because of his continuous work for coronavirus relief for Japanese citizens.

"I want him to take a break," Amari told local media. "He has a strong sense of responsibility and feels it's wrong to take a break."

Abe was last seen in public at a Tokyo ceremony commemorating Japan's World War Two defeat.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-ministers-visit-yasukuni-shrine-first-since-2016-320773">Also read:&nbsp;Japanese ministers visit Yasukuni Shrine, first since 2016</a>

The local media has been running detailed reports about Abe's health and some even reported the Prime Minister vomited blood. All these reports, however, have not been verified or proved right.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga urged people to stay calm and said, "I see the prime minister every day, and I think he has no (health) problems at all, as he has been carrying out his duties smoothly."

The concerns have been rising since Abe has a history of&nbsp;ulcerative colitis, due to which he had to step down from his position in 2007. However, the Prime Minister has been keeping the health issue under control with the help of doctor-prescribed medication.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Taro Aso will be taking over Abe's&nbsp;role, if need be.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe went through a medical check-up on Monday after he had been complaining of fatigue due to heavy workload due to coronavirus emergency.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe went through a medical check-up on Monday after he had been complaining of fatigue due to heavy workload due to coronavirus emergency. Abe was spotted entering Tokyo's Keio University Hospital on Monday morning, and local media reported he might return home by late evening. Also read: Japan faces WW2 anniversary in shadow of coronavirus The local media believes it is a regular check-up that Abe goes through twice a year. However, the visit has come after Akira Amari, chairman of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party`s tax panel, said that Abe has been suffering from fatigue because of his continuous work for coronavirus relief for Japanese citizens. "I want him to take a break," Amari told local media. "He has a strong sense of responsibility and feels it's wrong to take a break." Abe was last seen in public at a Tokyo ceremony commemorating Japan's World War Two defeat. Also read: Japanese ministers visit Yasukuni Shrine, first since 2016 The local media has been running detailed reports about Abe's health and some even reported the Prime Minister vomited blood. All these reports, however, have not been verified or proved right. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga urged people to stay calm and said, "I see the prime minister every day, and I think he has no (health) problems at all, as he has been carrying out his duties smoothly." The concerns have been rising since Abe has a history of ulcerative colitis, due to which he had to step down from his position in 2007. However, the Prime Minister has been keeping the health issue under control with the help of doctor-prescribed medication. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Taro Aso will be taking over Abe's role, if need be.

Japan's PM Shinzo Abe goes for check-up after coronavirus work piles on

Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has been accused of delivering two near-identical speeches to mark the anniversaries of the attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. A plagiarism detection app found that Abe’s speech in Nagasaki on Sunday duplicated 93% of a speech he had delivered in Hiroshima three days earlier, a major newspaper in Japan Mainichi Shimbun reported.

Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has been accused of delivering two near-identical speeches to mark the anniversaries of the attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. A plagiarism detection app found that Abe’s speech in Nagasaki on Sunday duplicated 93% of a speech he had delivered in Hiroshima three days earlier, a major newspaper in Japan Mainichi Shimbun reported. The English-language versions of the speeches on Abe’s official website also show a high degree of duplication, according to The Guardian. The opening paragraph mentions each city’s name, and continues: “I reverently express my sincere condolences to the souls of the great number of atomic bomb victims. I also extend my heartfelt sympathy to those still suffering even now from the after-effects of the atomic bomb.” Aside from the ceremony titles, the passages match word for word. Also read | Japan faces WW2 anniversary in shadow of coronavirus Abe did, however, use different wording when referring to how each city had rebuilt in the years after Japan’s wartime defeat. An estimated 140,000 people died immediately and in the months after the Hiroshima bombing on 6 August 1945, while 74,000 died during and after the attack on Nagasaki three days later. Apart from the cities’ names, the statements’ closing paragraphs used the same wording, with Abe voicing hope for a world “without nuclear weapons”. Also read: 'Unspeakable horror': The tale of attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki The apparent decision not to tailor the statements to each city’s experience angered survivors of the bombings, who are known as hibakusha, the Guardian report added. “It’s the same every year,” Koichi Kawano, head of a hibakusha liaison council in Nagasaki, told the Mainichi Shimbun. “He talks gibberish and leaves, as if to say, ‘There you go. Goodbye.’ He just changed the word ‘Hiroshima’ to ‘Nagasaki.’ He’s looking down on A-bomb survivors.”

Japan PM's near-identical speeches in Hiroshima and Nagasaki spark anger

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will refrain from visiting the Yasukuni shrine for war dead on the 75th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War Two, Jiji news agency said on Sunday, but will make an offering on the emotive day, as he has done in the past.

The shrine, dedicated to Japanese who have died during past wars including World War Two, is seen as a potent symbol of the controversy that persists over the conflict’s legacy in East Asia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/unspeakable-horror-the-tale-of-attacks-on-hiroshima-and-nagasaki-318534">Have a look|&nbsp;'Unspeakable horror': The tale of attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki</a>

“He will make a ritual offering to the shrine out of his personal expenses as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, as he has done in previous years,” sources close to the matter said, according to the report.

Since 1978, the shrine has also honoured leaders convicted as “Class A” war criminals at an allied tribunal in 1948, making it deeply controversial at home and abroad.

Abe’s last visit to the shrine, shortly after he took office in December 2013, caused outrage in China and South Korea, who see the visits as a sign that Japan has not repented for its militarist past and war atrocities.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will refrain from visiting the Yasukuni shrine for war dead on the 75th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War Two, Jiji news agency said on Sunday, but will make an offering on the emotive day, as he has done in the past.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will refrain from visiting the Yasukuni shrine for war dead on the 75th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War Two, Jiji news agency said on Sunday, but will make an offering on the emotive day, as he has done in the past. The shrine, dedicated to Japanese who have died during past wars including World War Two, is seen as a potent symbol of the controversy that persists over the conflict’s legacy in East Asia. Have a look| 'Unspeakable horror': The tale of attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki “He will make a ritual offering to the shrine out of his personal expenses as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, as he has done in previous years,” sources close to the matter said, according to the report. Since 1978, the shrine has also honoured leaders convicted as “Class A” war criminals at an allied tribunal in 1948, making it deeply controversial at home and abroad. Abe’s last visit to the shrine, shortly after he took office in December 2013, caused outrage in China and South Korea, who see the visits as a sign that Japan has not repented for its militarist past and war atrocities.

Japan's Abe to avoid visit to war-linked shrine on 75th war anniversary: Jiji

It's been 75 years since America dropped the world's first atomic bomb on Hiroshima. For survivors, the war isn't over yet. Discarded N-treaties, faster missiles, cyber-attacks, and artificial intelligence - the new nuclear threats are greater than before. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the world isn't any wiser.

Gravitas: 75 Years After Hiroshima | Will new tech raise the threat of nuke war?

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, in his speech at the ceremony, said Japan is committed to nuclear weapons ban but said a nuclear-free world could not be achieved overnight and that it has to start from dialogue between opposite sides.

Japan: 75 years since first atomic bombing | Hiroshima Bombing Anniversary | Shinzo Abe

Japan marks 75th anniversary of Hiroshima atomic bombing | World War 2 | WION | World News

At the end of World War-II, Japan adopted pacifism - vowing never to attack any other country. Now, Japan wants to acquire strike weapons to protect itself in a volatile neighbourhood. Does this end Japan's era of pacifism? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay bring you a report on Japan's new war strategy.

Gravitas: Is Japan abandoning pacifism?

A group of Japanese lawmakers is seeking to restrict the use of TikTok and other apps developed by Chinese firms

After India and U.S, Japan looks to put curbs on TikTok and other chinese apps

Japan on Tuesday warned South Korea against a statue erected in the country showing&nbsp;Japan's&nbsp;Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bowing to a "comfort woman"&nbsp;on display.

Japan's chief cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, said on Tuesday&nbsp;if reports of the statue on display were true, it would be an "unforgivable" breach of international protocol.

South Korea's private botanic garden in the rural Pyeongchang county displayed statues that appears to depict&nbsp;Japan's PM&nbsp;Abe, kneeling and bowing to a seated "comfort woman," a euphemism for women forced to work in&nbsp;Japan's wartime brothels.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-denies-possibility-of-another-war-in-north-korea-thanks-reliable-effective-nuclear-arms-316451" hreflang="en">Kim Jong Un denies possibility of another war; thanks country's nuclear arms</a>

The head of a privately run botanic garden, Kim Chang-ryul, who commissioned the statue called "Eternal Atonement" said the kneeling figure was meant to depict anyone who could be in the position to apologise formally for the historic wrong, and not Abe in particular.

South Korea's foreign ministry said there may be international protocol to consider, but declined further comment, saying it was an act by a private citizen.

The issue of comfort women, mostly Koreans forced to work in&nbsp;Japan's brothels before and during World War Two, and the question of whether victims were adequately compensated have long been a thorn in ties between the two countries.

Japan&nbsp;regards the matter as "finally and irreversibly resolved" by a 2015 agreement reached by Abe and then South Korean President Park Geun-hye under which Abe apologised and pledged a fund to support the survivors.

But South Korean President Moon Jae-in's government has declared the deal flawed, in effect voiding it.

Similar statues of girls alone have been set up in front of the&nbsp;Japanese Embassy in Seoul and elsewhere to honour the women.

Ties were strained last year when&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;imposed export curbs on high-tech materials to South Korea following a South Korean court ruling ordering&nbsp;Japanese firms to pay compensation to Koreans forced to work for them during the war.

Japan on Tuesday warned South Korea against a statue erected in the country showing Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bowing to a "comfort woman" on display. Japan's chief cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, said on Tuesday if reports of the statue on display were true, it would be an "unforgivable" breach of international protocol.

Japan on Tuesday warned South Korea against a statue erected in the country showing Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bowing to a "comfort woman" on display. Japan's chief cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, said on Tuesday if reports of the statue on display were true, it would be an "unforgivable" breach of international protocol. South Korea's private botanic garden in the rural Pyeongchang county displayed statues that appears to depict Japan's PM Abe, kneeling and bowing to a seated "comfort woman," a euphemism for women forced to work in Japan's wartime brothels. Also read: Kim Jong Un denies possibility of another war; thanks country's nuclear arms The head of a privately run botanic garden, Kim Chang-ryul, who commissioned the statue called "Eternal Atonement" said the kneeling figure was meant to depict anyone who could be in the position to apologise formally for the historic wrong, and not Abe in particular. South Korea's foreign ministry said there may be international protocol to consider, but declined further comment, saying it was an act by a private citizen. The issue of comfort women, mostly Koreans forced to work in Japan's brothels before and during World War Two, and the question of whether victims were adequately compensated have long been a thorn in ties between the two countries. Japan regards the matter as "finally and irreversibly resolved" by a 2015 agreement reached by Abe and then South Korean President Park Geun-hye under which Abe apologised and pledged a fund to support the survivors. But South Korean President Moon Jae-in's government has declared the deal flawed, in effect voiding it. Similar statues of girls alone have been set up in front of the Japanese Embassy in Seoul and elsewhere to honour the women. Ties were strained last year when Japan imposed export curbs on high-tech materials to South Korea following a South Korean court ruling ordering Japanese firms to pay compensation to Koreans forced to work for them during the war.

'Comfort woman' row: Japan warns South Korea against Abe's statue

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s ruling party adopted a resolution on June 6 urging the government to cancel a visit to Japan by Chinese President Xi Jinping following Beijing’s imposition of a new national security law for Hong Kong.

Japan has criticised China's move in Hong Kong | Xi Jinping visit cancelled

Japan's government&nbsp;on approved Tuesday a PCR coronavirus test using saliva, which is much safer and easier compared with the currently dominant method, which collects mucus from back part of the nose.

The new testing method targets those within nine days of displaying symptoms and is covered by public health insurance. It is expected to pose less of an infection risk to medical staff, as examinees only provide their saliva in a container at medical facilities.

The existing method uses a cotton swab to collect mucus from the nose, which has a high possibility of causing the patients to sneeze or cough in the process. As it leaves medical staff collecting the sample prone to potential infection, they need to wear goggles and gown. This has become a sticking point in expanding the scale of PCR testing.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fireworks-light-up-japan-to-lift-spirits-amid-pandemic-302553">Fireworks light up Japan to lift spirits amid pandemic</a>

The saliva-based tests are able to be given to those who have had symptoms for up to nine days, Japan's health ministry said. It wasn't immediately clear how much the change would boost overall testing capacity.

"This will vastly reduce burdens on patients as well as burdens that come with infection-prevention steps on the part of sample-collecting institutions," Health Minister Katsunobu Kato told reporters, outlining the change.

Japan falls well behind other industrialised nations in terms of its number of coronavirus tests. Critics say the low rate of testing has made it difficult to trace the virus, which has led to a series of in-hospital infection clusters.

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As of May 20, Japan conducted 3.4 PCR tests per 1,000 people, far below Italy's 52.5 and 39 in the United States, according to Oxford University data. South Korea has carried out tests on 15 people per 1,000 people.

Japan, which lifted its state of emergency last week, has escaped an explosive outbreak, with nearly 17,000 infections and 898 deaths so far, according to NHK public broadcaster. But the epidemic has tipped the world's third-biggest economy into recession and sent Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's popularity to multi-year lows.

The health ministry said about two dozen different test kits, including one from Takara Bio Inc, have been approved for saliva-based PCR tests. Shares in Takara Bio jumped 4% on Tuesday, outperforming a 1.19 per cent&nbsp;rise in the Nikkei average.

More than 30 new coronavirus infections were reported in Tokyo on Tuesday, NHK said, marking the first time the number of daily cases has topped 30 in 19 days.

Musashino Central Hospital in western Tokyo said 12 patients and three hospital workers had been confirmed with the virus, taking the total number of cases at the hospital to 31, forming the latest infection cluster.

Japan's government on approved Tuesday a PCR coronavirus test using saliva, which is much safer and easier compared with the currently dominant method, which collects mucus from back part of the nose.

Japan's government on approved Tuesday a PCR coronavirus test using saliva, which is much safer and easier compared with the currently dominant method, which collects mucus from back part of the nose. The new testing method targets those within nine days of displaying symptoms and is covered by public health insurance. It is expected to pose less of an infection risk to medical staff, as examinees only provide their saliva in a container at medical facilities. The existing method uses a cotton swab to collect mucus from the nose, which has a high possibility of causing the patients to sneeze or cough in the process. As it leaves medical staff collecting the sample prone to potential infection, they need to wear goggles and gown. This has become a sticking point in expanding the scale of PCR testing. Also see: Fireworks light up Japan to lift spirits amid pandemic The saliva-based tests are able to be given to those who have had symptoms for up to nine days, Japan's health ministry said. It wasn't immediately clear how much the change would boost overall testing capacity. "This will vastly reduce burdens on patients as well as burdens that come with infection-prevention steps on the part of sample-collecting institutions," Health Minister Katsunobu Kato told reporters, outlining the change. Japan falls well behind other industrialised nations in terms of its number of coronavirus tests. Critics say the low rate of testing has made it difficult to trace the virus, which has led to a series of in-hospital infection clusters. As of May 20, Japan conducted 3.4 PCR tests per 1,000 people, far below Italy's 52.5 and 39 in the United States, according to Oxford University data. South Korea has carried out tests on 15 people per 1,000 people. Japan, which lifted its state of emergency last week, has escaped an explosive outbreak, with nearly 17,000 infections and 898 deaths so far, according to NHK public broadcaster. But the epidemic has tipped the world's third-biggest economy into recession and sent Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's popularity to multi-year lows. The health ministry said about two dozen different test kits, including one from Takara Bio Inc, have been approved for saliva-based PCR tests. Shares in Takara Bio jumped 4% on Tuesday, outperforming a 1.19 per cent rise in the Nikkei average. More than 30 new coronavirus infections were reported in Tokyo on Tuesday, NHK said, marking the first time the number of daily cases has topped 30 in 19 days. Musashino Central Hospital in western Tokyo said 12 patients and three hospital workers had been confirmed with the virus, taking the total number of cases at the hospital to 31, forming the latest infection cluster.

Japan approves saliva-based tests for safer, simpler detection of COVID-19

After India, Japanese Air Force pays tribute to medical workers

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has pledged to build and provide 2,000 new ventilators to help coronavirus patients and hospitals.

However, the government officials and health experts say they might not need these many ventilators, as&nbsp;only around 5% of seriously ill coronavirus patients have had to be out on ventilators in Japan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-abe-lifts-state-of-emergency-except-in-some-virus-hit-regions-298682">Also read:&nbsp;Japan PM Abe lifts state of emergency except in some virus-hit regions</a>

Abe has urged Japanese companies to build 2,000 ventilators. However, this will seemingly add&nbsp;to an already existing unused stock of 4,700 ventilators in hospitals. A further 8,300 are deployed in critical care units, of which only a fraction are used to keep COVID-19 patients alive.

The industry&nbsp;industry experts have claimed that Japan's small-scale ventilator manufacturers will not be able to produce more than few dozen ventilators a month, in comparison to their usual manufacturing. Health officials, too, feel that as&nbsp;almost all their ventilators are purchased overseas, the hospitals likely have enough.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bank-of-japan-appoints-first-female-executive-director-in-138-years-298015">Also read:&nbsp;Bank of Japan appoints first female executive director in 138 years</a>

"It is probably more than Japan needs now," said Akihisa Maeda, an official at the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labour who is responsible for medical device policy, about the number of ventilators. However, she also stated that Japan doesn't have enough qualified officials to operate the ventilators.

The decision of Japanese PM is being seen as a move to bring back manufacturing to Japan, and reduce the import&nbsp;dependency on China. Japan is also offering firms money to shift production of face masks and other products from China.

The same is being followed to reduce imports from the US and&nbsp;Europe. "It's a matter of national security. The coronavirus outbreak has shown that," said Health Minister.

However, what ventilator manufacturers are concerned about is availability of technicians, manpower and few components that are mainly available overseas.

"My first thought was, it's going to be tough to get the parts," said Akikazu Endo, sales and marketing manager at ventilator maker Sanko Manufacturing, about the government's plan.

At its small plant next to a vegetable field, Sanko is making coronavirus ventilators with parts from human anaesthesia machines and ventilators designed for cats and dogs. The manufacturer proposed to build 300, a jump of 270, but later scaled back to 50 due to the underlying issues of tough availability of small parts and less manpower.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has pledged to build and provide 2,000 new ventilators to help coronavirus patients and hospitals. However, the government officials and health experts say they might not need these many ventilators, as only around 5% of seriously ill coronavirus patients have had to be out on ventilators in Japan.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has pledged to build and provide 2,000 new ventilators to help coronavirus patients and hospitals. However, the government officials and health experts say they might not need these many ventilators, as only around 5% of seriously ill coronavirus patients have had to be out on ventilators in Japan. Also read: Japan PM Abe lifts state of emergency except in some virus-hit regions Abe has urged Japanese companies to build 2,000 ventilators. However, this will seemingly add to an already existing unused stock of 4,700 ventilators in hospitals. A further 8,300 are deployed in critical care units, of which only a fraction are used to keep COVID-19 patients alive. The industry industry experts have claimed that Japan's small-scale ventilator manufacturers will not be able to produce more than few dozen ventilators a month, in comparison to their usual manufacturing. Health officials, too, feel that as almost all their ventilators are purchased overseas, the hospitals likely have enough. Also read: Bank of Japan appoints first female executive director in 138 years "It is probably more than Japan needs now," said Akihisa Maeda, an official at the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labour who is responsible for medical device policy, about the number of ventilators. However, she also stated that Japan doesn't have enough qualified officials to operate the ventilators. The decision of Japanese PM is being seen as a move to bring back manufacturing to Japan, and reduce the import dependency on China. Japan is also offering firms money to shift production of face masks and other products from China. The same is being followed to reduce imports from the US and Europe. "It's a matter of national security. The coronavirus outbreak has shown that," said Health Minister. However, what ventilator manufacturers are concerned about is availability of technicians, manpower and few components that are mainly available overseas. "My first thought was, it's going to be tough to get the parts," said Akikazu Endo, sales and marketing manager at ventilator maker Sanko Manufacturing, about the government's plan. At its small plant next to a vegetable field, Sanko is making coronavirus ventilators with parts from human anaesthesia machines and ventilators designed for cats and dogs. The manufacturer proposed to build 300, a jump of 270, but later scaled back to 50 due to the underlying issues of tough availability of small parts and less manpower.

Japanese PM asks companies to build 2,000 ventilators; hospitals say not needed

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday evening justified extending the state of emergency nationwide until May 31

Japan extends state of emergency till May 31

Local authorities in Japan are sacrificing tens of thousands of flowers to ensure that visitors stay at home, as the country attempts to contain the&nbsp;coronavirus pandemic.

The reason cited by the officials is that&nbsp;there is concern that flower festivals could become the source of new infection clusters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-viral-drug-being-hailed-as-coronavirus-cure-fails-first-clinical-trial-294417" hreflang="en">Anti-viral drug being hailed as coronavirus cure, fails first clinical trial</a>

This week, in an attempt to keep flower viewers away, workers began severing the buds of about 3,000 rose bushes at Yono park in Saitama, north of Tokyo.

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与野公園バラ園 
薔薇はもうシーズン終わりかけかな〜結構痛んでる感もあったけど、色んな薔薇が咲いてて見応えありました <a href="https://t.co/8zDg0UFANr">pic.twitter.com/8zDg0UFANr</a>
— 真央⚘🍆 (@ma0h_xx) <a href="https://twitter.com/ma0h_xx/status/1135078868476284929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The local government had already cancelled the annual rose festival, but the park is still open to the public.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-patients-hospitalised-with-covid-19-had-chronic-health-issues-says-study-294411" hreflang="en">Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study</a>

This has&nbsp;promptied&nbsp;the decision to rid the venue of its main attraction, 180 varieties of rose bushes that reach their peak from around the middle of May.

A local official said that&nbsp;''it’s very painful, but we decided to take action after looking at the situation in other cities''.

<aside data-component="rich-link" data-link-name="rich-link-1 | 1">Japan reported more than 430 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, bringing the country’s total to more than 12,000,&nbsp;</aside>

Local authorities in Japan are sacrificing tens of thousands of flowers to ensure that visitors stay at home, as the country attempts to contain the coronavirus pandemic.

Local authorities in Japan are sacrificing tens of thousands of flowers to ensure that visitors stay at home, as the country attempts to contain the coronavirus pandemic. The reason cited by the officials is that there is concern that flower festivals could become the source of new infection clusters. Also read: Anti-viral drug being hailed as coronavirus cure, fails first clinical trial This week, in an attempt to keep flower viewers away, workers began severing the buds of about 3,000 rose bushes at Yono park in Saitama, north of Tokyo. 与野公園バラ園 薔薇はもうシーズン終わりかけかな〜結構痛んでる感もあったけど、色んな薔薇が咲いてて見応えありました pic.twitter.com/8zDg0UFANr — 真央⚘🍆 (@ma0h_xx) June 2, 2019 × The local government had already cancelled the annual rose festival, but the park is still open to the public. Also read: Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study This has promptied the decision to rid the venue of its main attraction, 180 varieties of rose bushes that reach their peak from around the middle of May. A local official said that ''it’s very painful, but we decided to take action after looking at the situation in other cities''. Japan reported more than 430 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, bringing the country’s total to more than 12,000,

Flowers being chopped off in Japanese gardens to deter visitors

Over 100,000 tulips were chopped at a Japanese park in Chiba prefecture to avoid visitors congregating at the park amid the coronavirus state of emergency declared by the government.

Japanese park cuts 100,000 tulips to avoid people gathering amid coronavirus crisis

After a state of emergency was announced in Japan by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on April 7, babies in the country&nbsp;tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-fears-of-second-coronavirus-wave-in-chinas-northeast-294018" hreflang="en">After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast</a>

A total of eight children have been tested positive at a Tokyo care centre. The incident occurred&nbsp;after a staff member tested positive on April 16.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germanys-vaccines-regulator-approves-first-trial-of-covid-19-vaccine-candidate-294014" hreflang="en">Germany's vaccines regulator approves first trial of COVID-19 vaccine candidate</a>

The officials of Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital said the&nbsp;children have been hospitalised, and other kids, who tested negative, are still under observation.

Tests have also been conducted for other 46 employees of the care centre, who have self-isolated themselves at home for the time being. The children who tested positive did not have high fever, according to local media sources.&nbsp;

While Japan has been trying its&nbsp;best to avoid the spread of the virus, the country has been battling with positive cases that have been in hospital transmissions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-records-higher-one-day-coronavirus-death-toll-for-second-consecutive-day-294008" hreflang="en">Spain records higher one-day coronavirus death toll for second consecutive day</a>

Shinzo Abe had announced a national emergency on April 7 as the number of positive cases were still rising even after two weeks of lockdown in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. The spread of infection has also been accelerating in other parts of Japan.&nbsp;

The death toll in Japan now stands at 276, out of 11,137 positive COVID-19 cases. This tally excludes the positive cases from Diamond Princess cruise ship which was quarantined on the shore of Tokyo two months ago, and also the residents who returned back to Japan from China through charter flights.

Following the lockdown and the rapid increase in cases, around 220 Indians, which includes 92 dependants, have reached out to the Indian Embassy in Tokyo with a request to be evacuated to India.

After a state of emergency was announced in Japan by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on April 7, babies in the country tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday. Also read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast A total of eight children have been tested positive at a Tokyo care centre.

After a state of emergency was announced in Japan by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on April 7, babies in the country tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday. Also read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast A total of eight children have been tested positive at a Tokyo care centre. The incident occurred after a staff member tested positive on April 16. Also read: Germany's vaccines regulator approves first trial of COVID-19 vaccine candidate The officials of Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital said the children have been hospitalised, and other kids, who tested negative, are still under observation. Tests have also been conducted for other 46 employees of the care centre, who have self-isolated themselves at home for the time being. The children who tested positive did not have high fever, according to local media sources. While Japan has been trying its best to avoid the spread of the virus, the country has been battling with positive cases that have been in hospital transmissions. Also read: Spain records higher one-day coronavirus death toll for second consecutive day Shinzo Abe had announced a national emergency on April 7 as the number of positive cases were still rising even after two weeks of lockdown in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. The spread of infection has also been accelerating in other parts of Japan. The death toll in Japan now stands at 276, out of 11,137 positive COVID-19 cases. This tally excludes the positive cases from Diamond Princess cruise ship which was quarantined on the shore of Tokyo two months ago, and also the residents who returned back to Japan from China through charter flights. Following the lockdown and the rapid increase in cases, around 220 Indians, which includes 92 dependants, have reached out to the Indian Embassy in Tokyo with a request to be evacuated to India.

COVID-19 : Babies test positive in Japanese care centre

A 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of Japan early Monday, according to the US Geological Survey, but no tsunami warning was issued.

The epicenter of the earthquake was 41.7 kilometers&nbsp;beneath the Pacific seabed, less than 50 kilometers off the coast of Miyagi prefecture, the USGS said on its website, rating the risk of casualties and damage as low.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-coronavirus-grips-china-japan-us-take-lead-to-pull-out-companies-291634">As coronavirus grips China, Japan &amp; US take lead to pull out companies</a>

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) put the quake at a magnitude of 6.1 and a depth of 50 kilometers. Japan's Kyodo News Agency said no tsunami warning had been issued after the tremor, which hit just after 5.30 am.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-offer-930-to-every-household-as-stimulus-payment-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-293156">Japan to offer $930 to every household as stimulus payment amid coronavirus pandemic</a>

Japan sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

In 2011, a devastating 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck roughly 130 kilometres east of Miyagi prefecture, unleashing an enormous tsunami, triggering the Fukushima nuclear reactor meltdown and killing nearly 16,000 people.

A 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of Japan early Monday, according to the US Geological Survey, but no tsunami warning was issued. The epicenter of the earthquake was 41.

A 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of Japan early Monday, according to the US Geological Survey, but no tsunami warning was issued. The epicenter of the earthquake was 41.7 kilometers beneath the Pacific seabed, less than 50 kilometers off the coast of Miyagi prefecture, the USGS said on its website, rating the risk of casualties and damage as low. Also read: As coronavirus grips China, Japan & US take lead to pull out companies The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) put the quake at a magnitude of 6.1 and a depth of 50 kilometers. Japan's Kyodo News Agency said no tsunami warning had been issued after the tremor, which hit just after 5.30 am. Also read: Japan to offer $930 to every household as stimulus payment amid coronavirus pandemic Japan sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. In 2011, a devastating 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck roughly 130 kilometres east of Miyagi prefecture, unleashing an enormous tsunami, triggering the Fukushima nuclear reactor meltdown and killing nearly 16,000 people.

6.4 magnitude quake strikes off Japan coast: USGS

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expanded a state of emergency to cover the whole country on Thursday in an attempt to prevent the further spread of the new coronavirus

Japan declares nationwide state of emergency amid coronavirus spread

Japan's coronavirus emergency economic stimulus should boost the country's real gross domestic product by 3.8%, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Wednesday.

Abe's comments came at the end of a meeting of the government's top economic advisory council.

The government last week approved an emergency economic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-shinzo-abe-criticised-as-tone-deaf-after-twitter-video-292118">stimulus package </a>worth 108.2 trillion yen ($1.01 trillion), with fiscal spending of 39.5 trillion yen, aimed at battling the fallout from the coronavirus.

Abe recently declared a state of emergency to fight new coronavirus infections in major population centres and unveiled a stimulus package he described as among the world`s biggest to soften the economic blow.

The state of emergency, giving authorities more power to press people to stay at home and businesses to close, will last through May 6 and be imposed in the capital, Tokyo, and six other prefectures - accounting for about 44% of Japan`s population. 
&nbsp;

Japan's coronavirus emergency economic stimulus should boost the country's real gross domestic product by 3.8%, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Wednesday. Abe's comments came at the end of a meeting of the government's top economic advisory council.

Japan's coronavirus emergency economic stimulus should boost the country's real gross domestic product by 3.8%, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Wednesday. Abe's comments came at the end of a meeting of the government's top economic advisory council. The government last week approved an emergency economic stimulus package worth 108.2 trillion yen ($1.01 trillion), with fiscal spending of 39.5 trillion yen, aimed at battling the fallout from the coronavirus. Abe recently declared a state of emergency to fight new coronavirus infections in major population centres and unveiled a stimulus package he described as among the world`s biggest to soften the economic blow. The state of emergency, giving authorities more power to press people to stay at home and businesses to close, will last through May 6 and be imposed in the capital, Tokyo, and six other prefectures - accounting for about 44% of Japan`s population.

Japan's $1 trillion coronavirus stimulus to lift GDP by 3.8%, says Abe

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announces the state of emergency. He also unveils a stimulus package to tackle the pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Japan PM announces state of emergency, unveils stimulus package to tackle COVID-19

Japan on Monday said that it is imposing a state of emergency in Tokyo and six other prefectures as early as Tuesday to try to stop the coronavirus, the prime minister said.

Japan on Monday said that it is imposing a state of emergency in Tokyo and six other prefectures as early as Tuesday to try to stop the coronavirus, the prime minister said. The government is also preparing a $990 billion stimulus package to soften the economic blow. More than 3,500 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in Japan while 85 have died so far. But the numbers keep rising with particular alarm over the spread in Tokyo, which has more than 1,000 cases, including 83 new ones on Monday. "Given the state of crisis on the medical front, the government was advised to prepare to declare the state of emergency," Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told reporters. An emergency, which Abe said would last about a month, will give governors authority to call on people to stay at home and businesses to close, but will not be as restrictive as lockdowns in some other countries. In most cases, there will be no penalties for ignoring requests to stay at home, and enforcement will rely more on peer pressure and respect for authority. It was not immediately clear how much of that package would be new government spending. "The government wants to help businesses continue and protect jobs," Abe said. (With inputs from Reuters)

Japan to declare coronavirus emergency, launch $990 billion stimulus: PM Abe

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Saturday requested people to refrain from non-essential meetings and said coronavirus infections could escalate if people let down their guard and don't take proper containment measures.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Saturday requested people to refrain from non-essential meetings and said coronavirus infections could escalate if people let down their guard and don't take proper containment measures. Abe made the comments at a news conference in Tokyo. Abe also promised a massive unprecedented package of steps to cushion the economy from the coronavirus pandemic, saying the country was close to a national emergency as infections surged in Tokyo. Abe told a country that is seeing a rising number of deaths and cases from the outbreak that the "huge, powerful" measures would be greater than the response to the global financial crisis of 2008. "Japan is holding up barely, but it would not be strange if there were a rapid spread (of the virus) at any time," Abe told a nationally televised news conference, though he held back from declaring a state of emergency. He also announced plans to approve the drug Avigan that has proved helpful in treatment. The government will craft the stimulus within about 10 days, Abe said, as officials confirmed a further 60 cases in Tokyo. (With inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus outbreak could worsen if people don't take proper measures: Japan PM Abe 

In 2016, Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe broke with his staid public image to pop up in Rio dressed as Super Mario for the official handover of the Olympic Games to Tokyo.

The stunt reflected his commitment to an event that was supposed to be the crowning glory of his tenure. But analysts say the historic delay of the Games over the coronavirus may not be all bad news for Abe.

If the country's longest-serving premier can see off the twin threats of a larger-scale outbreak of the virus in Japan and a major economic crisis caused by the pandemic, he could even end up extending his tenure, due to expire in September 2021, experts say.

Abe has bet heavily on Japan hosting the Games, casting them as a chance to showcase recovery after the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and Fukushima nuclear disaster, and delaying them would once have been seen as an "unthinkable political defeat", said Tobias Harris, senior vice president at consultancy Teneo.

But the rapidly expanding coronavirus epidemic has changed the political calculus, making holding the Games a&nbsp;greater risk than putting it off for now, he said.

The delay "removes a significant source of uncertainty for the administration and could give a bump to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's approval ratings, since large majorities support delaying the games," Harris said.

Japan has so far been something of an outlier in the pandemic, recording around 1,300 cases and 45 deaths, far fewer than in many countries around the world.

If the outbreak can be contained, Abe may find himself with enough support to continue his tenure past September 2021, said Tetsuro Kato, professor emeritus of Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo.

"It's possible that members of his Liberal Democratic Party argue for a further extension of his term," Kato said.

<h2>- Economic pressure -</h2>

Abe's government enjoys stable public support, hovering around 50 percent in approval rating polls, and the prime minister has benefitted from a dearth of viable alternatives both within his ruling party and the fragmented opposition.

A series of corruption scandals, the stumbling economy and unpopular legislation have at no time seriously threatened his government.

"In this case, the pandemic could even shift the public's attention" away from his administration's shortcomings, Kato said.

Perhaps more problematic for Abe is the expected economic downturn from the global pandemic. Analysts say the postponement of the Olympics is unlikely to result in a major lasting economic hit, with benefits simply delayed rather than lost altogether.

But the country's economy was already struggling before the pandemic began, with the prime minister's signature "Abenomics" strategy failing to boost sluggish growth.

Tourism had come under pressure from a spat with South Korea, and domestic consumption has been hit by a sales tax hike imposed last year despite fears it could send the country into a recession.

The government has unveiled two emergency economic packages already and is expected to offer fresh stimulus in the coming weeks.

The economy, rather than the delay of the Olympics, is now the main pressure point on Abe, said Robert Dujarric, director of the Institute of Contemporary Asian Studies at Temple University's Tokyo campus.

"I think that when we look at the post-mortem of COVID-19, the Olympics will be a minor footnote," he said.

<h2>- Olympics as 'symbolic victory' -</h2>

Analysts said the other potential threat for Abe is that Japan's currently small-scale outbreak gradually expands, with the government already facing some criticism over its relatively hands-off approach to the pandemic.

Japan has not yet imposed the sort of lockdowns seen elsewhere in the world, and moved much slower than many other countries to impose travel restrictions on visitors.

Officials argue they have carefully tracked the outbreak, and that measures including school closures have helped contain the virus so far.

But Tokyo's governor warned this week that cases were increasing in the capital, urging people to avoid unnecessary outings this weekend.

"As opinion polls show, he (Abe) has strength left in him. But this will all change once a severe pandemic hits Japan," Kato said.

If Abe can ride out the pandemic and economic downturn though, even a delayed Olympics could be the sort of glittering final act he hoped for, said Harris.

"A postponed games could not only be just as significant economically but could also be an important symbolic victory for the prime minister, since convening the games would be a milestone for global recovery from the pandemic."

In 2016, Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe broke with his staid public image to pop up in Rio dressed as Super Mario for the official handover of the Olympic Games to Tokyo.

In 2016, Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe broke with his staid public image to pop up in Rio dressed as Super Mario for the official handover of the Olympic Games to Tokyo. The stunt reflected his commitment to an event that was supposed to be the crowning glory of his tenure. But analysts say the historic delay of the Games over the coronavirus may not be all bad news for Abe. If the country's longest-serving premier can see off the twin threats of a larger-scale outbreak of the virus in Japan and a major economic crisis caused by the pandemic, he could even end up extending his tenure, due to expire in September 2021, experts say. Abe has bet heavily on Japan hosting the Games, casting them as a chance to showcase recovery after the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and Fukushima nuclear disaster, and delaying them would once have been seen as an "unthinkable political defeat", said Tobias Harris, senior vice president at consultancy Teneo. But the rapidly expanding coronavirus epidemic has changed the political calculus, making holding the Games a greater risk than putting it off for now, he said. The delay "removes a significant source of uncertainty for the administration and could give a bump to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's approval ratings, since large majorities support delaying the games," Harris said. Japan has so far been something of an outlier in the pandemic, recording around 1,300 cases and 45 deaths, far fewer than in many countries around the world. If the outbreak can be contained, Abe may find himself with enough support to continue his tenure past September 2021, said Tetsuro Kato, professor emeritus of Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo. "It's possible that members of his Liberal Democratic Party argue for a further extension of his term," Kato said. - Economic pressure - Abe's government enjoys stable public support, hovering around 50 percent in approval rating polls, and the prime minister has benefitted from a dearth of viable alternatives both within his ruling party and the fragmented opposition. A series of corruption scandals, the stumbling economy and unpopular legislation have at no time seriously threatened his government. "In this case, the pandemic could even shift the public's attention" away from his administration's shortcomings, Kato said. Perhaps more problematic for Abe is the expected economic downturn from the global pandemic. Analysts say the postponement of the Olympics is unlikely to result in a major lasting economic hit, with benefits simply delayed rather than lost altogether. But the country's economy was already struggling before the pandemic began, with the prime minister's signature "Abenomics" strategy failing to boost sluggish growth. Tourism had come under pressure from a spat with South Korea, and domestic consumption has been hit by a sales tax hike imposed last year despite fears it could send the country into a recession. The government has unveiled two emergency economic packages already and is expected to offer fresh stimulus in the coming weeks. The economy, rather than the delay of the Olympics, is now the main pressure point on Abe, said Robert Dujarric, director of the Institute of Contemporary Asian Studies at Temple University's Tokyo campus. "I think that when we look at the post-mortem of COVID-19, the Olympics will be a minor footnote," he said. - Olympics as 'symbolic victory' - Analysts said the other potential threat for Abe is that Japan's currently small-scale outbreak gradually expands, with the government already facing some criticism over its relatively hands-off approach to the pandemic. Japan has not yet imposed the sort of lockdowns seen elsewhere in the world, and moved much slower than many other countries to impose travel restrictions on visitors. Officials argue they have carefully tracked the outbreak, and that measures including school closures have helped contain the virus so far. But Tokyo's governor warned this week that cases were increasing in the capital, urging people to avoid unnecessary outings this weekend. "As opinion polls show, he (Abe) has strength left in him. But this will all change once a severe pandemic hits Japan," Kato said. If Abe can ride out the pandemic and economic downturn though, even a delayed Olympics could be the sort of glittering final act he hoped for, said Harris. "A postponed games could not only be just as significant economically but could also be an important symbolic victory for the prime minister, since convening the games would be a milestone for global recovery from the pandemic."

For Japan's Abe, Olympic delay may be no sweat

With the positive cases of the novel coronavirus rising with each passing day, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday told the parliament that postponing the 2020 Tokyo Olympics ‘may become inevitable’ if the COVID-19 pandemic makes it impossible to conduct the Games safely.

With the positive cases of the novel coronavirus rising with each passing day, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday told the parliament that postponing the 2020 Tokyo Olympics ‘may become inevitable’ if the COVID-19 pandemic makes it impossible to conduct the Games safely. Abe said that Japan is still completely committed to a ‘complete’ Games while adding that postponement is inevitable considering the safety and welfare of athletes first. Abe in the parliament said: "if that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone." Abe’s comments were his first agreeing to the possibility that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics may not go ahead as per the schedule on July 24 as the novel coronavirus continues to spread like a wildfire. Furthermore, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) also tweaked their stance on the Tokyo Games as it said it would be stepping up planning for different scenarios, including postponement if the condition surrounding COVID-19 continues to deteriorate. “Cancellation is not an option” However, Abe echoed IOC chief Thomas Bach’s comments by saying “cancellation is not an option”. Earlier, Bach had said that cancelling the 2020 Tokyo Olympics "would not solve any problem and would help nobody". The onus of any final call lies with the IOC, which has come under immense pressure from athletes and different sporting bodies worldwide as the novel coronavirus scare grows. Athletics Australia completely supports the view of the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) and Paralympics Australia to postpone the Olympic and Paralympic Games until July 2021. ⁣ ⁣https://t.co/4wXZSIQ2FX ⁣#thisisathletics⁣ pic.twitter.com/di7ADw2hOV — Athletics Australia (@AthsAust) March 23, 2020 × On Monday, Australia told its athletes to prepare for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics with expectation growing that the quadrennial event would eventually get postponed amid the pandemic. Furthermore, Canada became the first team to withdraw from the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics while urging a year’s postponement. #TeamCanada will not send athletes to Games in summer 2020 due to COVID-19 risks. 🔗https://t.co/AKmI2rbyeO pic.twitter.com/8McEbgirVp — Team Canada (@TeamCanada) March 23, 2020 × "This is not solely about athlete health -- it is about public health," the Canadian Olympic Committee said.

Postponing Tokyo Olympics may become 'inevitable', says Japan PM Abe as coronavirus emergency grows

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