Japanese Trade Minister Hiroshige Seko said on Tuesday it was "regrettable" that the South Korean government had made what he said was an erroneous explanation after the two sides sat down for a working-level meeting over Japan's export controls.

The feud between the two deepened over the weekend when they contested accounts of a frosty meeting last week on the dispute, which could threaten global supplies of microchips and smartphone displays.

Tokyo lodged a protest against Seoul, saying it had broken an agreement on what the two sides would disclose from the Friday discussions on Japan's curbs of exports to Korea of some materials used to make high-tech equipment, a Japanese trade ministry official said at the weekend.

Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) also disputed a Korean official's statement that Seoul had asked Japan on Friday to withdraw the restrictions.

But a Korean trade ministry official shot back that Seoul had "clearly demanded Japan withdraw its trade restrictions at yesterday’s meeting, and there should be no disagreement over that matter with <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/more-acrimony-in-japan-south-korea-row-as-tokyo-lodges-protest-235529&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwipm7SR97jjAhVK-2EKHV0YAdcQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2ep2wU2z8egmK_dl6grAZj">Japan</a>."

He told Reuters the two sides had discussed what they would disclose but that there was no agreement.

At a regular briefing on Tuesday, Seko disputed that claim, saying the officials had spent about an hour towards the end of the five-hour meeting to discuss and agree on what to disclose to media.

Japan recently tightened restrictions on the export of three materials used in high-tech equipment, citing what it has called "inadequate management" of sensitive items exported to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/calls-for-boycott-of-japan-grow-in-south-korea-as-diplomatic-row-simmers-233755">South Korea</a>, as well as a lack of consultations about export controls.

But the dispute also appears to be rooted in a decades-old wartime disagreement. It comes amid deep frustration in Japan over what Tokyo sees as Seoul's failure to act in response to a South Korean court ruling ordering a Japanese company to compensate former forced labourers from the Second World War.

Seko repeated Japan's stance that its latest move - taken for reasons of national security - fell under the jurisdiction of individual countries and did not require checks from international bodies.

"The claim that (our latest steps) go against free trade ... is completely unfounded. If the topic is raised at the World Trade Organisation's (WTO) general council, we will firmly explain Japan's stance," Seko said.

Japanese Trade Minister Hiroshige Seko said on Tuesday it was "regrettable" that the South Korean government had made what he said was an erroneous explanation after the two sides sat down for a working-level meeting over Japan's export controls.

Japanese Trade Minister Hiroshige Seko said on Tuesday it was "regrettable" that the South Korean government had made what he said was an erroneous explanation after the two sides sat down for a working-level meeting over Japan's export controls. The feud between the two deepened over the weekend when they contested accounts of a frosty meeting last week on the dispute, which could threaten global supplies of microchips and smartphone displays. Tokyo lodged a protest against Seoul, saying it had broken an agreement on what the two sides would disclose from the Friday discussions on Japan's curbs of exports to Korea of some materials used to make high-tech equipment, a Japanese trade ministry official said at the weekend. Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) also disputed a Korean official's statement that Seoul had asked Japan on Friday to withdraw the restrictions. But a Korean trade ministry official shot back that Seoul had "clearly demanded Japan withdraw its trade restrictions at yesterday’s meeting, and there should be no disagreement over that matter with Japan." He told Reuters the two sides had discussed what they would disclose but that there was no agreement. At a regular briefing on Tuesday, Seko disputed that claim, saying the officials had spent about an hour towards the end of the five-hour meeting to discuss and agree on what to disclose to media. Japan recently tightened restrictions on the export of three materials used in high-tech equipment, citing what it has called "inadequate management" of sensitive items exported to South Korea, as well as a lack of consultations about export controls. But the dispute also appears to be rooted in a decades-old wartime disagreement. It comes amid deep frustration in Japan over what Tokyo sees as Seoul's failure to act in response to a South Korean court ruling ordering a Japanese company to compensate former forced labourers from the Second World War. Seko repeated Japan's stance that its latest move - taken for reasons of national security - fell under the jurisdiction of individual countries and did not require checks from international bodies. "The claim that (our latest steps) go against free trade ... is completely unfounded. If the topic is raised at the World Trade Organisation's (WTO) general council, we will firmly explain Japan's stance," Seko said.

Japan trade minister blasts South Korea for 'mistaken' explanation after bilateral meeting

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-abes-coalition-on-track-to-win-majority-in-july-21-election-media-233479">Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's ruling coalition</a> is set to win a solid majority in an upper house election later this week, keeping alive his dream to revise Japan's pacifist constitution, a survey showed on Monday.

Abe's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito together are on track to win as many as 83 seats, well over the 63 seats needed for a majority of the 124 seats to be contested on Sunday, the poll by the Nikkei business daily conducted late last week showed.&nbsp;

Similar polls taken by other media outlets, including the Kyodo news agency, showed support for the LDP had increased to 31.0 per cent of all respondents, up 2 percentage points from a similar poll last month. Support for Komeito was unchanged at 5.6 per cent.

Such a showing could enable the ruling bloc and other smaller parties including the Japan Innovation Party, which supports constitutional revisions, to maintain their "supermajority", or two-thirds of the vote.

&nbsp;Such a majority is needed to start the process of revising Japan's post-World War Two pacifist constitution.&nbsp;

Changing the constitution to enshrine the role of Japan's military, known as the Self-Defense Forces, has been a long-held goal for Abe, who has been prime minister and leader of the LDP since 2012.

Constitutional revisions require approval by two-thirds of both chambers of parliament and a majority in a public referendum.

Upper house elections are held every three years, with members` terms running for six years. The LDP won a landslide victory in 2013 but fared less well in 2016.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's ruling coalition is set to win a solid majority in an upper house election later this week, keeping alive his dream to revise Japan's pacifist constitution, a survey showed on Monday.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's ruling coalition is set to win a solid majority in an upper house election later this week, keeping alive his dream to revise Japan's pacifist constitution, a survey showed on Monday. Abe's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito together are on track to win as many as 83 seats, well over the 63 seats needed for a majority of the 124 seats to be contested on Sunday, the poll by the Nikkei business daily conducted late last week showed. Similar polls taken by other media outlets, including the Kyodo news agency, showed support for the LDP had increased to 31.0 per cent of all respondents, up 2 percentage points from a similar poll last month. Support for Komeito was unchanged at 5.6 per cent. Such a showing could enable the ruling bloc and other smaller parties including the Japan Innovation Party, which supports constitutional revisions, to maintain their "supermajority", or two-thirds of the vote. Such a majority is needed to start the process of revising Japan's post-World War Two pacifist constitution. Changing the constitution to enshrine the role of Japan's military, known as the Self-Defense Forces, has been a long-held goal for Abe, who has been prime minister and leader of the LDP since 2012. Constitutional revisions require approval by two-thirds of both chambers of parliament and a majority in a public referendum. Upper house elections are held every three years, with members` terms running for six years. The LDP won a landslide victory in 2013 but fared less well in 2016.

Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's ruling bloc set for solid upper house win: Polls

A row between <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/calls-for-boycott-of-japan-grow-in-south-korea-as-diplomatic-row-simmers-233755&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkh4bL67HjAhWQOnAKHdK0CDwQFjAHegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1rNFlubgai0uu1K36l6Dq6">Japan and South Korea</a> escalated on Saturday, with contested accounts of a frosty meeting the day before that had failed to make progress on a dispute that could threaten global supplies of microchips and smartphone displays.

Tokyo lodged a protest against Seoul, saying it had broken an agreement on what the two sides would disclose from the Friday discussions on Japan's curbs of exports to Korea of some materials used to make high-tech equipment, said Japanese trade ministry official Jun Iwamatsu.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-restricts-chip-smartphone-materials-exports-to-south-korea-231877&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjl1rby67HjAhWGFYgKHYb8B_QQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw29aGx03LnTm9o7nxEPuTA6">Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI)</a> also disputed a Korean official's statement that Seoul had asked Japan on Friday to withdraw the restrictions.

But a Korean trade ministry official shot back that Seoul had "clearly demanded Japan withdraw its trade restrictions at yesterday’s meeting, and there should be no disagreement over that matter with Japan."

He told Reuters the two sides had discussed what they would disclose but that there was no agreement.

"I am frustrated," said the Korean official, who declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter.

Japan recently tightened restrictions on the export of three materials used in high-tech equipment, citing what it has called "inadequate management" of sensitive items exported to South Korea, as well as a lack of consultations about export controls.

But the dispute also appears to be rooted in a decades-old wartime disagreement. It comes amid deep frustration in Japan over what Tokyo sees as Seoul's failure to act in response to a South Korean court ruling ordering a Japanese company to compensate former forced labourers from the Second World War.

In the Friday talks, South Korean officials expressed regret over Japan's export restrictions and asked Tokyo to remove them, participant Han Cheol-hee, a trade ministry director, told reporters as he was leaving Japan on Saturday.

In response, Iwamatsu, director of METI's trade control policy division, told a hastily arranged news conference: "We've checked the record of the meeting ... We found no clear comment asking for the withdrawal."

Iwamatsu said the two sides had agreed on what they would disclose from the talks but that the Korean official went beyond the agreement.&nbsp;

"We believe this is something that affects our relationship of trust," he said.

One reason for the sensitivity over characterising the talks could be a Japanese fear that if Korea can assert that it used consultations and unsuccessfully sought to have Tokyo withdraw the curbs, Seoul could justify escalating the matter to the World Trade Organisation.

"The nature of the meeting is not a consultation, but an occasion where Japan gives an explanation after getting a request from the South Korean government," Iwamatsu said.

"Therefore we would like to correct expression from a South Korean official that the meeting can appropriately be described as consultation for problem-solving."

Friday's talks began with two negotiators from each side facing off in stony silence in a small meeting room, without greeting each other and with the Japanese officials not standing or bowing when their Korean counterparts entered.

A Japanese official later explained that the bureaucrats had earlier met and exchanged greetings. South Korean media, however, reported there was a "cold reception" for their officials, and that the meeting took place in a room that looked like a "garage".

A row between Japan and South Korea escalated on Saturday, with contested accounts of a frosty meeting the day before that had failed to make progress on a dispute that could threaten global supplies of microchips and smartphone displays.

A row between Japan and South Korea escalated on Saturday, with contested accounts of a frosty meeting the day before that had failed to make progress on a dispute that could threaten global supplies of microchips and smartphone displays. Tokyo lodged a protest against Seoul, saying it had broken an agreement on what the two sides would disclose from the Friday discussions on Japan's curbs of exports to Korea of some materials used to make high-tech equipment, said Japanese trade ministry official Jun Iwamatsu. Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) also disputed a Korean official's statement that Seoul had asked Japan on Friday to withdraw the restrictions. But a Korean trade ministry official shot back that Seoul had "clearly demanded Japan withdraw its trade restrictions at yesterday’s meeting, and there should be no disagreement over that matter with Japan." He told Reuters the two sides had discussed what they would disclose but that there was no agreement. "I am frustrated," said the Korean official, who declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter. Japan recently tightened restrictions on the export of three materials used in high-tech equipment, citing what it has called "inadequate management" of sensitive items exported to South Korea, as well as a lack of consultations about export controls. But the dispute also appears to be rooted in a decades-old wartime disagreement. It comes amid deep frustration in Japan over what Tokyo sees as Seoul's failure to act in response to a South Korean court ruling ordering a Japanese company to compensate former forced labourers from the Second World War. In the Friday talks, South Korean officials expressed regret over Japan's export restrictions and asked Tokyo to remove them, participant Han Cheol-hee, a trade ministry director, told reporters as he was leaving Japan on Saturday. In response, Iwamatsu, director of METI's trade control policy division, told a hastily arranged news conference: "We've checked the record of the meeting ... We found no clear comment asking for the withdrawal." Iwamatsu said the two sides had agreed on what they would disclose from the talks but that the Korean official went beyond the agreement. "We believe this is something that affects our relationship of trust," he said. One reason for the sensitivity over characterising the talks could be a Japanese fear that if Korea can assert that it used consultations and unsuccessfully sought to have Tokyo withdraw the curbs, Seoul could justify escalating the matter to the World Trade Organisation. "The nature of the meeting is not a consultation, but an occasion where Japan gives an explanation after getting a request from the South Korean government," Iwamatsu said. "Therefore we would like to correct expression from a South Korean official that the meeting can appropriately be described as consultation for problem-solving." Friday's talks began with two negotiators from each side facing off in stony silence in a small meeting room, without greeting each other and with the Japanese officials not standing or bowing when their Korean counterparts entered. A Japanese official later explained that the bureaucrats had earlier met and exchanged greetings. South Korean media, however, reported there was a "cold reception" for their officials, and that the meeting took place in a room that looked like a "garage".

More acrimony in Japan-South Korea row as Tokyo lodges protest

Calls in South Korea for a boycott of Japanese goods in response to Tokyo's curbs on the export of high-tech material to South Korea picked up on Friday, as a dispute over compensation for forced wartime labour roiled ties between the US allies.

It is the latest flashpoint in a relationship long over-shadowed by South Korean resentment of Japan's 1910-1945 occupation of the Korean peninsula, in particular South Korean "comfort women", a Japanese euphemism for women forced to work in Japanese military brothels before and during World War Two.

Japan apologised to the women as part of a 2015 deal and provided a $9.4 million fund to help them.

Advocacy groups for the women have criticised the fund and South Korea dissolved it on Friday, despite Japan's warnings that such action could damage ties.

"This is totally unacceptable for Japan. We've made stern representations to the South Korean side," Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasutoshi Nishimura said in Tokyo.

The bitterness over the forced labour issue could disrupt global supplies of memory chips and smartphones.

Japan said on Monday it would tighten restrictions on the export of high-tech materials used in smartphone displays and chips to South Korea. The curbs took effect on Thursday, fuelling South Korean calls for retaliation.

Samsung Electronics Co and SK Hynix Inc - the world's top memory chipmakers, and suppliers to Apple and China's Huawei Technologies - could face delays if the curbs drag on.

"A boycott is the most immediate way for citizens to express their anger," said Choi Gae-Yeon of the activist group Movement for One Korea, that staged protests in front of a Japanese car showroom and a retailer in Seoul this week.

"Many people are angry at the attitude of the Japanese government," she said.

Boycott

The row over forced labour exploded last year when a South Korean court ordered Japan's Nippon Steel &amp; Sumitomo Metal Corp and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars to South Korean plaintiffs.

Japan maintains that the issue was fully settled in 1965 when the two countries restored diplomatic ties, and has denounced the ruling as "unthinkable".

Nearly 27,000 people had by Friday signed a petition posted on the South Korean presidential office website calling for a boycott of Japanese products and for tourists not to visit.

The government must respond to a petition that gets 200,000 signatures in a month.

Some Korean social media users posted "Boycott Japan" messages and shared a link to a list of Japanese brands that could be targeted, including Toyota Motor and Fast Retailing's Uniqlo.

Toyota's South Korean unit declined comment, and Fast Retailing's South Korean unit did not have an immediate comment.

"Japan boycott movement" was among the most searched-for terms on South Korea's main online search engine Naver.

A South Korean actor on Thursday deleted photographs he posted on social media of a visit he made to Japan after online criticism.

Tourism-related shares fell this week due to concern about reduced demand for travel to Japan. Tour agency Hana Tour fell 3.4 per cent on Thursday before paring losses on Friday.

South Korea imported $54.6 billion worth of goods from Japan in 2018, and paid for $11.5 billion worth of its services.

South Korea exported $30.5 billion in goods and $8.7 billion in services to Japan in the same year, according to South Korean customs and central bank data.

Calls in South Korea for a boycott of Japanese goods in response to Tokyo's curbs on the export of high-tech material to South Korea picked up on Friday, as a dispute over compensation for forced wartime labour roiled ties between the US allies.

Calls in South Korea for a boycott of Japanese goods in response to Tokyo's curbs on the export of high-tech material to South Korea picked up on Friday, as a dispute over compensation for forced wartime labour roiled ties between the US allies. It is the latest flashpoint in a relationship long over-shadowed by South Korean resentment of Japan's 1910-1945 occupation of the Korean peninsula, in particular South Korean "comfort women", a Japanese euphemism for women forced to work in Japanese military brothels before and during World War Two. Japan apologised to the women as part of a 2015 deal and provided a $9.4 million fund to help them. Advocacy groups for the women have criticised the fund and South Korea dissolved it on Friday, despite Japan's warnings that such action could damage ties. "This is totally unacceptable for Japan. We've made stern representations to the South Korean side," Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasutoshi Nishimura said in Tokyo. The bitterness over the forced labour issue could disrupt global supplies of memory chips and smartphones. Japan said on Monday it would tighten restrictions on the export of high-tech materials used in smartphone displays and chips to South Korea. The curbs took effect on Thursday, fuelling South Korean calls for retaliation. Samsung Electronics Co and SK Hynix Inc - the world's top memory chipmakers, and suppliers to Apple and China's Huawei Technologies - could face delays if the curbs drag on. "A boycott is the most immediate way for citizens to express their anger," said Choi Gae-Yeon of the activist group Movement for One Korea, that staged protests in front of a Japanese car showroom and a retailer in Seoul this week. "Many people are angry at the attitude of the Japanese government," she said. Boycott The row over forced labour exploded last year when a South Korean court ordered Japan's Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corp and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars to South Korean plaintiffs. Japan maintains that the issue was fully settled in 1965 when the two countries restored diplomatic ties, and has denounced the ruling as "unthinkable". Nearly 27,000 people had by Friday signed a petition posted on the South Korean presidential office website calling for a boycott of Japanese products and for tourists not to visit. The government must respond to a petition that gets 200,000 signatures in a month. Some Korean social media users posted "Boycott Japan" messages and shared a link to a list of Japanese brands that could be targeted, including Toyota Motor and Fast Retailing's Uniqlo. Toyota's South Korean unit declined comment, and Fast Retailing's South Korean unit did not have an immediate comment. "Japan boycott movement" was among the most searched-for terms on South Korea's main online search engine Naver. A South Korean actor on Thursday deleted photographs he posted on social media of a visit he made to Japan after online criticism. Tourism-related shares fell this week due to concern about reduced demand for travel to Japan. Tour agency Hana Tour fell 3.4 per cent on Thursday before paring losses on Friday. South Korea imported $54.6 billion worth of goods from Japan in 2018, and paid for $11.5 billion worth of its services. South Korea exported $30.5 billion in goods and $8.7 billion in services to Japan in the same year, according to South Korean customs and central bank data.

Calls for boycott of Japan grow in South Korea as diplomatic row simmers

Tokyo Olympic stadium 90 per cent complete; opening set for December

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-shinzo-abe-calls-for-strengthing-ties-with-india-221913">Japan</a> on Thursday flatly rejected as "unacceptable" a South Korean proposal to set up a joint fund to compensate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-shift-blame-over-wartime-labour-ruling-japan-tells-south-korea-189507">wartime forced labourers</a>, a bitter dispute that has bogged down bilateral ties.

The proposed fund would not solve the issue, the top government spokesman told a regular press conference in Tokyo.

"The South Korean proposal is utterly unacceptable," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told reporters.

"We will continue to urge South Korea to agree to arbitration," he added. Relations between the two US allies have been increasingly strained by a series of rulings from South Korean courts ordering Japanese firms that used wartime forced labour to compensate victims.

Japan's government and the firms involved have rejected the rulings, with Tokyo saying the issue was settled when the two countries normalised relations.

Last month, Tokyo proposed the issue be put to arbitration under the terms of an agreement signed by the two countries in 1965 when ties were normalised.

The agreement calls for the two countries to set up an arbitration panel if they cannot resolve a dispute through diplomatic negotiations.

South Korea on Wednesday offered a counterproposal that would see South Korean and Japanese firms, including those involved in the court cases, set up a voluntary fund to compensate the victims.

"If Tokyo accepts our offer, our government is willing to review the Japanese government's request (to discuss the issue)," Seoul said in a statement.

Japan and South Korea are both democracies, market economies and US allies, but their relationship has been strained for decades as a result of Tokyo's brutal 1910-45 colonial rule over the Korean peninsula.

The tense ties between Tokyo and Seoul come amid diplomatic efforts to persuade North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to give up his nuclear weapons, to ease one of the key security risks for the region.

When relations were normalised, Tokyo agreed on a reparations package that included grants and cheap loans intended to cover victims of various wartime policies. Japan argues that the package should have permanently resolved the issue.

Japan on Thursday flatly rejected as "unacceptable" a South Korean proposal to set up a joint fund to compensate wartime forced labourers, a bitter dispute that has bogged down bilateral ties.

Japan on Thursday flatly rejected as "unacceptable" a South Korean proposal to set up a joint fund to compensate wartime forced labourers, a bitter dispute that has bogged down bilateral ties. The proposed fund would not solve the issue, the top government spokesman told a regular press conference in Tokyo. "The South Korean proposal is utterly unacceptable," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told reporters. "We will continue to urge South Korea to agree to arbitration," he added. Relations between the two US allies have been increasingly strained by a series of rulings from South Korean courts ordering Japanese firms that used wartime forced labour to compensate victims. Japan's government and the firms involved have rejected the rulings, with Tokyo saying the issue was settled when the two countries normalised relations. Last month, Tokyo proposed the issue be put to arbitration under the terms of an agreement signed by the two countries in 1965 when ties were normalised. The agreement calls for the two countries to set up an arbitration panel if they cannot resolve a dispute through diplomatic negotiations. South Korea on Wednesday offered a counterproposal that would see South Korean and Japanese firms, including those involved in the court cases, set up a voluntary fund to compensate the victims. "If Tokyo accepts our offer, our government is willing to review the Japanese government's request (to discuss the issue)," Seoul said in a statement. Japan and South Korea are both democracies, market economies and US allies, but their relationship has been strained for decades as a result of Tokyo's brutal 1910-45 colonial rule over the Korean peninsula. The tense ties between Tokyo and Seoul come amid diplomatic efforts to persuade North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to give up his nuclear weapons, to ease one of the key security risks for the region. When relations were normalised, Tokyo agreed on a reparations package that included grants and cheap loans intended to cover victims of various wartime policies. Japan argues that the package should have permanently resolved the issue.

Japan rejects South Korea deal over wartime forced labour

US President Donald Trump can expect a warm welcome from the sumo wrestling community when he presents a custom-made "Trump Award" to the winner of the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo on May 26.

Japan's sumo fans welcome Trump Trophy but wish he'd sit cross-legged

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-says-trumps-comment-reflected-hope-for-progress-in-trade-talks-by-august-222105">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> expects that Japan's military will reinforce US&nbsp;forces throughout Asia and elsewhere, he said on Tuesday, as the key US&nbsp;ally upgrades the ability of its forces to operate further from its shores.

Trump's comments followed his inspection of Japan's largest warship, the Kaga, a helicopter carrier designed to carry submarine-hunting helicopters to distant waters.

The vessel, which will soon be upgraded to handle F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jets, sailed to India on a flag-flying mission last year, going through the contested South China Sea, much of which is claimed by Beijing.

"With this extraordinary new equipment the Kaga will help our nations defend against a range of complex threats in the region and far beyond," Trump said in a speech on the ship's hangar deck.

The refit of the vessel, and its sister ship, the Izumo, is expected to bolster US&nbsp;forces operating from Japan by providing a refuelling platform for US&nbsp;Marine F-35Bs.

Watch: In eventful trip to Japan, Trump inks mega defence deal with Abe

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-eventful-trip-to-japan-ink-mega-defence-deal-with-abe-222103/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who accompanied Trump on the visit to the Kaga, has boosted defence spending since taking office in December 2012, stretching the pacifist constitution to ease limits on troop activities abroad.

He also wants to revise the post-World War Two charter to recognise the existence of Japan's military.

The Kaga and the Izumo are the biggest aircraft carriers Japan has operated since its wartime defeat, but its Self Defence Forces designate them as destroyers, as constitutional curbs forbid possession of weapons that could be used to attack other countries.

Trump is winding up a four-day state visit meant to underscore the US-Japan alliance, but shadowed by friction over Tokyo's big trade surplus with America.

On Monday he told a news conference that Washington supported Japan's efforts to improve its defence capability and touted Tokyo's purchases of American military equipment.

Japan last year unveiled a plan to buy 45 more F-35 stealth fighters, including some B variants, worth about $4 billion, adding to the 42 jets it has already ordered.

Japan says it eventually wants to field a force of around 150 of the advanced fighter jets, as it tries to keep ahead of China's advances in military technology.

"This purchase would give Japan the largest fleet of F-35s of any of our allies," Trump said on the Kaga, docked at the Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo.

The base is the headquarters of the Japanese fleet and also the home port of the US&nbsp;Seventh Fleet.

US President Donald Trump expects that Japan's military will reinforce US forces throughout Asia and elsewhere, he said on Tuesday, as the key US ally upgrades the ability of its forces to operate further from its shores.

US President Donald Trump expects that Japan's military will reinforce US forces throughout Asia and elsewhere, he said on Tuesday, as the key US ally upgrades the ability of its forces to operate further from its shores. Trump's comments followed his inspection of Japan's largest warship, the Kaga, a helicopter carrier designed to carry submarine-hunting helicopters to distant waters. The vessel, which will soon be upgraded to handle F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jets, sailed to India on a flag-flying mission last year, going through the contested South China Sea, much of which is claimed by Beijing. "With this extraordinary new equipment the Kaga will help our nations defend against a range of complex threats in the region and far beyond," Trump said in a speech on the ship's hangar deck. The refit of the vessel, and its sister ship, the Izumo, is expected to bolster US forces operating from Japan by providing a refuelling platform for US Marine F-35Bs. Watch: In eventful trip to Japan, Trump inks mega defence deal with Abe Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who accompanied Trump on the visit to the Kaga, has boosted defence spending since taking office in December 2012, stretching the pacifist constitution to ease limits on troop activities abroad. He also wants to revise the post-World War Two charter to recognise the existence of Japan's military. The Kaga and the Izumo are the biggest aircraft carriers Japan has operated since its wartime defeat, but its Self Defence Forces designate them as destroyers, as constitutional curbs forbid possession of weapons that could be used to attack other countries. Trump is winding up a four-day state visit meant to underscore the US-Japan alliance, but shadowed by friction over Tokyo's big trade surplus with America. On Monday he told a news conference that Washington supported Japan's efforts to improve its defence capability and touted Tokyo's purchases of American military equipment. Japan last year unveiled a plan to buy 45 more F-35 stealth fighters, including some B variants, worth about $4 billion, adding to the 42 jets it has already ordered. Japan says it eventually wants to field a force of around 150 of the advanced fighter jets, as it tries to keep ahead of China's advances in military technology. "This purchase would give Japan the largest fleet of F-35s of any of our allies," Trump said on the Kaga, docked at the Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo. The base is the headquarters of the Japanese fleet and also the home port of the US Seventh Fleet.

After visit, Trump expects Japan's military to reinforce United States in Asia and beyond

US President Donald Trump arrived in Tokyo for a four-day visit to Japan on Saturday. Under the threat of potentially devastating US tariffs on cars, Japan is rolling out the newest phase of its charm offensive targeting Trump, as it welcomed him on a state visit tailor-made to his whims and ego.

Trump arrives in Japan for four-day visit

New Japanese Emperor Naruhito was to be formally invested on Wednesday after his father,<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-an-era-as-japans-emperor-akihito-abdicates-214724&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjF1IDpq_rhAhX363MBHeXSDVQQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3wVBHiT42CydkSt6wWuDnk"> Akihito,</a> abdicated the day before.

Wednesday is the start of a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/from-heisei-to-reiwa-how-japan-changed-under-emperor-akihito-214477&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiKtZSErPrhAhVX63MBHQNkDEIQFjAIegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0y_qmnj5pKK89QvwsRprwH">new imperial era</a>, Reiwa, following the end of the three-decade Heisei era under Akihito.

Below are some comments by ordinary Japanese.

- "The Heisei era was an era in which we did not take part in war and I`d like Reiwa to be the same - a world without war," said Kazue Miaji, 67, standing outside a shop in downtown Tokyo. "And I would like the new emperor to take over the same thoughts as the Heisei emperor, to be close to the people."

- "The curtain has gone up on a new era that will be filled with hope," said Hiroshi Takahashi, 78, outside his `wagashi` traditional Japanese sweets shop."It would be good if the world becomes bright, the economy is good and there is a beautiful feeling.&nbsp;

"The new emperor has an admirable personality and I hope he creates a fine royal household that expresses his own personality."

- "I want it to be a world that is peaceful and I`d like the economy to improve," said salaryman Shigeru Yoshizawa, waiting near a subway station in Tokyo. "I`d like the new emperor to be a symbol in the same way (as his father)."

&nbsp;

New Japanese Emperor Naruhito was to be formally invested on Wednesday after his father, Akihito, abdicated the day before. Wednesday is the start of a new imperial era, Reiwa, following the end of the three-decade Heisei era under Akihito.

New Japanese Emperor Naruhito was to be formally invested on Wednesday after his father, Akihito, abdicated the day before. Wednesday is the start of a new imperial era, Reiwa, following the end of the three-decade Heisei era under Akihito. Below are some comments by ordinary Japanese. - "The Heisei era was an era in which we did not take part in war and I`d like Reiwa to be the same - a world without war," said Kazue Miaji, 67, standing outside a shop in downtown Tokyo. "And I would like the new emperor to take over the same thoughts as the Heisei emperor, to be close to the people." - "The curtain has gone up on a new era that will be filled with hope," said Hiroshi Takahashi, 78, outside his `wagashi` traditional Japanese sweets shop."It would be good if the world becomes bright, the economy is good and there is a beautiful feeling. "The new emperor has an admirable personality and I hope he creates a fine royal household that expresses his own personality." - "I want it to be a world that is peaceful and I`d like the economy to improve," said salaryman Shigeru Yoshizawa, waiting near a subway station in Tokyo. "I`d like the new emperor to be a symbol in the same way (as his father)."

Factbox - Japanese hope new Reiwa era brings peace, prosperity

The archery venue for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games was officially unveiled on Sunday (April 28), becoming the first of the Games' new venues to be completed. Yumenoshima Park Archery Field, located on a former landfill site, was set for completion in May.

Tokyo 2020 archery venue unveiled

Shareholders at Nissan voted on Monday at an extraordinary meeting to remove former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghosn-to-name-names-as-wife-flees-tokyo-208592">chief Carlos Ghosn</a> from the company's board as he battles multiple charges of financial misconduct.

The shareholders meeting also voted to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-court-extends-ghosn-detention-until-april-14-208072">remove Ghosn's former right-hand man</a> Greg Kelly, who also faces charges, from the board, and to appoint Renault chairman Jean-Dominique Senard as director.

The shareholders' meeting at a Tokyo hotel was the first&nbsp;gathering since the stunning arrest of the 65-year-old auto sector titan on November 19 last year.

Nissan CEO Hiroto Saikawa opened the meeting with a speech outlining the allegations against his former mentor, accusing him of misusing funds and seeking to conceal his compensation.

He and other executives bowed deeply before the thousands of shareholders at the meeting as it opened.

"We have to admit that there was a significant problem with our corporate governance," he said, adding that he had been "extremely shocked when I learned of the misconduct."

Ghosn faces three separate charges. The first two relate to the alleged deferring of around $80 million in income and concealing this in official documents to shareholders.

The third, more complex, charge is that he attempted to transfer personal losses to Nissan and paid a Saudi contact who provided collateral from company funds.

Last week, prosecutors rearrested Ghosn, who was out on bail, over an additional allegation that he transferred Nissan money to a dealership in Oman but siphoned off millions for his own personal expenses -- including the purchase of a luxury yacht.

Prosecutors believe Ghosn moved Nissan funds totalling $15 million between late 2015 and the middle of 2018 and used $5 million of that for his own ends.

Shareholders at Nissan voted on Monday at an extraordinary meeting to remove former chief Carlos Ghosn from the company's board as he battles multiple charges of financial misconduct.

Shareholders at Nissan voted on Monday at an extraordinary meeting to remove former chief Carlos Ghosn from the company's board as he battles multiple charges of financial misconduct. The shareholders meeting also voted to remove Ghosn's former right-hand man Greg Kelly, who also faces charges, from the board, and to appoint Renault chairman Jean-Dominique Senard as director. The shareholders' meeting at a Tokyo hotel was the first gathering since the stunning arrest of the 65-year-old auto sector titan on November 19 last year. Nissan CEO Hiroto Saikawa opened the meeting with a speech outlining the allegations against his former mentor, accusing him of misusing funds and seeking to conceal his compensation. He and other executives bowed deeply before the thousands of shareholders at the meeting as it opened. "We have to admit that there was a significant problem with our corporate governance," he said, adding that he had been "extremely shocked when I learned of the misconduct." Ghosn faces three separate charges. The first two relate to the alleged deferring of around $80 million in income and concealing this in official documents to shareholders. The third, more complex, charge is that he attempted to transfer personal losses to Nissan and paid a Saudi contact who provided collateral from company funds. Last week, prosecutors rearrested Ghosn, who was out on bail, over an additional allegation that he transferred Nissan money to a dealership in Oman but siphoned off millions for his own personal expenses -- including the purchase of a luxury yacht. Prosecutors believe Ghosn moved Nissan funds totalling $15 million between late 2015 and the middle of 2018 and used $5 million of that for his own ends.

Nissan shareholders vote to remove Carlos Ghosn from company board

Japanese prosecutors arrested ousted Nissan Motor Co <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghosn-tweets-about-telling-the-truth-as-report-says-prosecutors-readying-new-case-207655">boss Carlos Ghosn</a> for the fourth time on Thursday, on what media reports said was a new case over improper payments made by the automaker to a dealer in Oman under his watch.

The rearrest, which national broadcaster NHK described as a highly unusual move for someone who has been released on bail, marks the latest dramatic twist in the once-feted executive's fall from grace.

Prosecutors arrested <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghosn-disappointed-at-ban-from-nissan-meeting-wants-to-fulfill-duties-202774">Ghosn on suspicion of aggravated</a> breach of trust, NHK said, after visiting his residence in Tokyo early on Thursday and asking him to submit to questioning. A silver van believed to be carrying Ghosn later left the residence, NHK said.

"My arrest this morning is outrageous and arbitrary," Ghosn said in a statement emailed by a US-based spokesman.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UJhbrRkpblU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

"It is part of another attempt by some individuals at Nissan to silence me by misleading the prosecutors. Why arrest me except to try to break me? I will not be broken. I am innocent of the groundless charges and accusations against me."

Nissan said it could not comment on judicial decisions or processes.

Footage of the vehicle leaving the residence showed its windows covered with curtains, making it impossible to see who was riding inside. More than a dozen officials from the prosecutors' office had arrived earlier at the residence, NHK reported.

No one was immediately available for comment at the Tokyo prosecutors' office.

The arrest comes just a day after Ghosn pledged on Twitter that he would hold a news conference on April 11 to "tell the truth" about the allegations against him.

"After being wrongly imprisoned for 108 days, my biggest hope and wish today is for a fair trial," Ghosn added in the emailed statement.

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I'm getting ready to tell the truth about what's happening. Press conference on Thursday, April 11.
— Carlos Ghosn カルロス・ゴーン (@carlosghosn) <a href="https://twitter.com/carlosghosn/status/1113287847039995905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I was scheduled to present my story in a press conference next week; by arresting me again, the prosecutors have denied me that opportunity, for now, but I am determined that the truth will come out. I am confident that if tried fairly, I will be vindicated."

Ghosn was first arrested in Tokyo in November and faces charges of financial misconduct and aggravated breach of trust over allegedly failing to report around $82 million in salary and temporarily transferring personal financial losses onto Nissan's books during the financial crisis.

Released on $9 million bail on March 6, Ghosn says he is the victim of a boardroom coup.

Ghosn's lawyer, Junichiro Hironaka, called the latest arrest "inappropriate".

Sources had said earlier this week that Nissan partner Renault SA had alerted French prosecutors after uncovering suspect payments to a Renault-Nissan business partner in Oman while Ghosn was chief executive of the French automaker.

Ghosn's spokesman has previously said payments of $32 million made over nine years were rewards for the Oman firm being a top Nissan dealer. Such dealer incentives were not directed by Ghosn and the funds were not used to pay any personal debt, the spokesman said.

Nissan had previously established its own regional subsidiary made questionable payments of more than $30 million to the Oman distributor, Suhail Bahwan Automobiles (SBA).

Evidence sent to French prosecutors late last week showed that much of the cash was subsequently channelled to a Lebanese company controlled by Ghosn associates, the sources said.

Japanese prosecutors arrested ousted Nissan Motor Co boss Carlos Ghosn for the fourth time on Thursday, on what media reports said was a new case over improper payments made by the automaker to a dealer in Oman under his watch.

Japanese prosecutors arrested ousted Nissan Motor Co boss Carlos Ghosn for the fourth time on Thursday, on what media reports said was a new case over improper payments made by the automaker to a dealer in Oman under his watch. The rearrest, which national broadcaster NHK described as a highly unusual move for someone who has been released on bail, marks the latest dramatic twist in the once-feted executive's fall from grace. Prosecutors arrested Ghosn on suspicion of aggravated breach of trust, NHK said, after visiting his residence in Tokyo early on Thursday and asking him to submit to questioning. A silver van believed to be carrying Ghosn later left the residence, NHK said. "My arrest this morning is outrageous and arbitrary," Ghosn said in a statement emailed by a US-based spokesman. "It is part of another attempt by some individuals at Nissan to silence me by misleading the prosecutors. Why arrest me except to try to break me? I will not be broken. I am innocent of the groundless charges and accusations against me." Nissan said it could not comment on judicial decisions or processes. Footage of the vehicle leaving the residence showed its windows covered with curtains, making it impossible to see who was riding inside. More than a dozen officials from the prosecutors' office had arrived earlier at the residence, NHK reported. No one was immediately available for comment at the Tokyo prosecutors' office. The arrest comes just a day after Ghosn pledged on Twitter that he would hold a news conference on April 11 to "tell the truth" about the allegations against him. "After being wrongly imprisoned for 108 days, my biggest hope and wish today is for a fair trial," Ghosn added in the emailed statement. I'm getting ready to tell the truth about what's happening. Press conference on Thursday, April 11. — Carlos Ghosn カルロス・ゴーン (@carlosghosn) April 3, 2019 × "I was scheduled to present my story in a press conference next week; by arresting me again, the prosecutors have denied me that opportunity, for now, but I am determined that the truth will come out. I am confident that if tried fairly, I will be vindicated." Ghosn was first arrested in Tokyo in November and faces charges of financial misconduct and aggravated breach of trust over allegedly failing to report around $82 million in salary and temporarily transferring personal financial losses onto Nissan's books during the financial crisis. Released on $9 million bail on March 6, Ghosn says he is the victim of a boardroom coup. Ghosn's lawyer, Junichiro Hironaka, called the latest arrest "inappropriate". Sources had said earlier this week that Nissan partner Renault SA had alerted French prosecutors after uncovering suspect payments to a Renault-Nissan business partner in Oman while Ghosn was chief executive of the French automaker. Ghosn's spokesman has previously said payments of $32 million made over nine years were rewards for the Oman firm being a top Nissan dealer. Such dealer incentives were not directed by Ghosn and the funds were not used to pay any personal debt, the spokesman said. Nissan had previously established its own regional subsidiary made questionable payments of more than $30 million to the Oman distributor, Suhail Bahwan Automobiles (SBA). Evidence sent to French prosecutors late last week showed that much of the cash was subsequently channelled to a Lebanese company controlled by Ghosn associates, the sources said.

Nissan ex-boss Carlos Ghosn rearrested for fourth time in Tokyo

Tokyo unveils robots for 2020 Olympics

A social media campaign against employers forcing women to wear high heels to work has been picking up the pace in Japan, drawing support from tens of thousands of people, including more than 15,000 signatures in an online petition Thursday.

Yumi Ishikawa, a 32-year-old actress and model, involuntarily started the protest movement by tweeting a message in late January about suffering from wearing heels every day, which has received around 100,000 likes or retweets.&nbsp;

“I want to lose the custom that a woman must wear heels and pumps at work someday... Why do I have to work while my feet hurt,” she tweeted.

Following the huge wave of support, she created the hashtag #KuToo - a mixture of "kutsu" (shoe in Japanese) and "kutsuu" (pain), and a play on the universal #MeToo movement.

Many women responded with messages illustrating their own experiences and expressing similar complaints, with some of them even posting pictures of sores on their feet caused by daily use of heels.

Ishikawa then started a petition on Change.org with the aim of getting support against firms differentiating between genders while establishing rules of etiquette for its employees, and ending the custom of women having to wear high heels due to their detrimental impact on health and productivity.&nbsp;

The campaign started a week ago, has received a promising response from the public with more than 15,000 signatures – well on its way to the target of 25,000.

Most companies and public organizations in Japan have a dress code requiring its employees to wear a suit and dark-coloured shoes for men, and skirts and heels for women.

However, a growing number of firms of public entities are relaxing the norms for its employees on grounds of comfort, following initiatives such as those set out by the authorities in Tokyo allowing employees to do away with jackets and ties during the summer and even letting them wear sneakers.

The global #MeToo movement went viral from October 2017 as a hashtag on social media in an attempt to demonstrate the prevalence of sexual assault and harassment, especially in the workplace.

A social media campaign against employers forcing women to wear high heels to work has been picking up the pace in Japan, drawing support from tens of thousands of people, including more than 15,000 signatures in an online petition Thursday.

A social media campaign against employers forcing women to wear high heels to work has been picking up the pace in Japan, drawing support from tens of thousands of people, including more than 15,000 signatures in an online petition Thursday. Yumi Ishikawa, a 32-year-old actress and model, involuntarily started the protest movement by tweeting a message in late January about suffering from wearing heels every day, which has received around 100,000 likes or retweets. “I want to lose the custom that a woman must wear heels and pumps at work someday... Why do I have to work while my feet hurt,” she tweeted. Following the huge wave of support, she created the hashtag #KuToo - a mixture of "kutsu" (shoe in Japanese) and "kutsuu" (pain), and a play on the universal #MeToo movement. Many women responded with messages illustrating their own experiences and expressing similar complaints, with some of them even posting pictures of sores on their feet caused by daily use of heels. Ishikawa then started a petition on Change.org with the aim of getting support against firms differentiating between genders while establishing rules of etiquette for its employees, and ending the custom of women having to wear high heels due to their detrimental impact on health and productivity. The campaign started a week ago, has received a promising response from the public with more than 15,000 signatures – well on its way to the target of 25,000. Most companies and public organizations in Japan have a dress code requiring its employees to wear a suit and dark-coloured shoes for men, and skirts and heels for women. However, a growing number of firms of public entities are relaxing the norms for its employees on grounds of comfort, following initiatives such as those set out by the authorities in Tokyo allowing employees to do away with jackets and ties during the summer and even letting them wear sneakers. The global #MeToo movement went viral from October 2017 as a hashtag on social media in an attempt to demonstrate the prevalence of sexual assault and harassment, especially in the workplace.

Japanese women mobilise online against having to wear high heels to work

Pulwama attack: Massive protests against Pakistan in Tokyo

The 2020 Olympics can "usher in a new Tokyo" and, along with this year's Rugby World Cup, leave behind a legacy similar to that of the 1964 Summer Games, the city's Governor Yuriko Koike said on Monday.

"These two major events will serve as a springboard to transform our city," said Koike.

"This year, 2019, will be key in making those Games a success and ushering in a new Tokyo.

"But the metric for success will not be limited to just the competition itself; we want to lead Japan beyond 2020, change the way Tokyo thinks and transform our society."

The last time Tokyo hosted the Olympics in 1964, the Games provided the city with the opportunity for a rebranding, shaking off a war-ravaged reputation and showing a modern face to the world.

A building boom transformed Tokyo prior to those Games, the high-speed Shinkansen train began to run, and a growing middle class snapped up refrigerators and other appliances, including televisions to watch the Games.

This time, the legacy may be more of an intangible nature.

"The previous Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in 1964 left a legacy of urban infrastructure, like the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway and the Shinkansen bullet train network," said Koike, a former defence and environment minister.

"I intend for the Tokyo 2020 Games to leave a more intangible legacy. I also intend for the 2020 Games to leave a cultural legacy and for the Games themselves to be a celebration of culture."

Koike is focusing on making Tokyo more diverse and has also pushed for a swathe of environmental programs in order to rebrand the city as a leader in the fight against climate change.

She also sees the Paralympics as a chance to make Tokyo, notoriously difficult to navigate for citizens and visitors with disabilities, more accessible.

"I believe that the Paralympics, in particular, will be a key event that determines the success of the Tokyo 2020 Games," said Koike.

"This will be the first time that a city has hosted it's second summer Paralympics and as the city with that honour, Tokyo aims to lead the country in strengthening barrier-free standards in lodging facilities."

One of the recent regulations implemented by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is the 'Open Stay Tokyo' project, which looks to increase the width of doors and corridors within hotels to accommodate wheelchair uses.

The Tokyo Olympics open on July 24 next year.

The 2020 Olympics can "usher in a new Tokyo" and, along with this year's Rugby World Cup, leave behind a legacy similar to that of the 1964 Summer Games, the city's Governor Yuriko Koike said on Monday.

The 2020 Olympics can "usher in a new Tokyo" and, along with this year's Rugby World Cup, leave behind a legacy similar to that of the 1964 Summer Games, the city's Governor Yuriko Koike said on Monday. "These two major events will serve as a springboard to transform our city," said Koike. "This year, 2019, will be key in making those Games a success and ushering in a new Tokyo. "But the metric for success will not be limited to just the competition itself; we want to lead Japan beyond 2020, change the way Tokyo thinks and transform our society." The last time Tokyo hosted the Olympics in 1964, the Games provided the city with the opportunity for a rebranding, shaking off a war-ravaged reputation and showing a modern face to the world. A building boom transformed Tokyo prior to those Games, the high-speed Shinkansen train began to run, and a growing middle class snapped up refrigerators and other appliances, including televisions to watch the Games. This time, the legacy may be more of an intangible nature. "The previous Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in 1964 left a legacy of urban infrastructure, like the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway and the Shinkansen bullet train network," said Koike, a former defence and environment minister. "I intend for the Tokyo 2020 Games to leave a more intangible legacy. I also intend for the 2020 Games to leave a cultural legacy and for the Games themselves to be a celebration of culture." Koike is focusing on making Tokyo more diverse and has also pushed for a swathe of environmental programs in order to rebrand the city as a leader in the fight against climate change. She also sees the Paralympics as a chance to make Tokyo, notoriously difficult to navigate for citizens and visitors with disabilities, more accessible. "I believe that the Paralympics, in particular, will be a key event that determines the success of the Tokyo 2020 Games," said Koike. "This will be the first time that a city has hosted it's second summer Paralympics and as the city with that honour, Tokyo aims to lead the country in strengthening barrier-free standards in lodging facilities." One of the recent regulations implemented by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is the 'Open Stay Tokyo' project, which looks to increase the width of doors and corridors within hotels to accommodate wheelchair uses. The Tokyo Olympics open on July 24 next year.

2020 Olympic Games can be springboard to transform Tokyo

Detained auto <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/carlos-ghosn-resigned-from-renault-on-january-22-192422">tycoon Carlos Ghosn </a>believes his arrest and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/wrongly-accused-and-unfairly-detained-ex-nissan-chief-carlos-ghosn-tells-court-188904">the charges against him</a> are the result of a "plot and treason" at his former employer Nissan, he told the Nikkei newspaper Wednesday.

The Japanese business daily quoted <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/carlos-ghosn-the-allegations-and-the-rebuttals-189028">Ghosn</a> as saying he had "no doubt" that the charges against him were motivated by Nissan executives opposed to greater integration of the firm with its French alliance partner Renault.

It was the first press interview <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/tokyos-prosecutors-set-to-decide-on-carlos-ghosns-detention-187268">Ghosn has given since his stunning arrest </a>on November 19, conducted in the Tokyo detention centre where he has languished ever since.

A Nissan spokesman hit back immediately, saying that current CEO Hiroto Saikawa has "already categorically refuted the notion of a 'coup d'etat'.

"The sole cause of this chain of events is the misconduct led by Ghosn and (chief of staff Greg) Kelly," the spokesman added.

He said a Nissan probe had uncovered "substantial and convincing evidence of misconduct" and that the firm's focus is "firmly on addressing the weaknesses in governance" that allowed this misconduct to happen.

The 64-year-old Ghosn has been denied bail several times, with the court considering him a flight risk and concerned he could attempt to destroy evidence.

But he again stressed that he "won't flee. I will defend (myself)", according to the Nikkei.

"All the evidence is with Nissan and Nissan forbids all employees to talk to me," he added.

Even his own lawyer has said it is unlikely he will be released before a trial, which could take up to six months to organise given the complexity of the case.

Ghosn faces three separate charges, all of which he denies. He stands accused of under-reporting his income between 2010 and 2015 to the tune of five billion yen ($46 million) and continuing to do so for a further three years.

He also stands accused of a complex scheme to try to pass off personal foreign exchange losses to Nissan and using company funds to reimburse a Saudi contact who stumped up collateral for him.

He said the payment to this businessman, Khaled Juffali, had been signed by "four officers".

'Up and down'

The executive, once feted for his turnaround of the struggling Nissan, has been removed as chairman of the Japanese firm as well as of Mitsubishi Motors. He has also resigned as chairman and chief executive of French company Renault.

He told the Nikkei there was a plan to "integrate" the three companies but insisted it was intended to ensure there would be "autonomy under one holding company."

After Ghosn's arrest, Saikawa referred to the "dark side" of his former mentor's tenure and accused him of having accrued too much power.

But Ghosn rejected the characterisation of his tenure as a "dictatorship."&nbsp;

"People translated strong leadership to a dictator, to distort reality," he told the Nikkei. They did so, he added, for the "purpose of getting rid of me".

Another accusation against him revolves around some $9 million allegedly paid to him from a joint venture based in The Netherlands but Ghosn rejected this, saying the claims of improper payments were "a distortion of reality".

He has also come under fire for luxury houses in Rio de Janeiro and Beirut — which Nissan alleges were paid for improperly via a subsidiary.

He justified these residences on the grounds that he "needed a safe place where (he) can work and receive people in both Brazil and Lebanon."

He stressed that the purchases were approved by the legal department.

Asked about his conditions in the detention centre, Ghosn replied that the situation was "up and down" but said his health was "fine."

Family members have said his detention conditions are overly difficult and even French President Emmanuel Macron has criticised them as "harsh."

The reported comments by Ghosn were the first since a dramatic court appearance earlier this month in which he said he had been "wrongly accused and unfairly detained based on meritless and unsubstantiated accusations".

Detained auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn believes his arrest and the charges against him are the result of a "plot and treason" at his former employer Nissan, he told the Nikkei newspaper Wednesday.

Detained auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn believes his arrest and the charges against him are the result of a "plot and treason" at his former employer Nissan, he told the Nikkei newspaper Wednesday. The Japanese business daily quoted Ghosn as saying he had "no doubt" that the charges against him were motivated by Nissan executives opposed to greater integration of the firm with its French alliance partner Renault. It was the first press interview Ghosn has given since his stunning arrest on November 19, conducted in the Tokyo detention centre where he has languished ever since. A Nissan spokesman hit back immediately, saying that current CEO Hiroto Saikawa has "already categorically refuted the notion of a 'coup d'etat'. "The sole cause of this chain of events is the misconduct led by Ghosn and (chief of staff Greg) Kelly," the spokesman added. He said a Nissan probe had uncovered "substantial and convincing evidence of misconduct" and that the firm's focus is "firmly on addressing the weaknesses in governance" that allowed this misconduct to happen. The 64-year-old Ghosn has been denied bail several times, with the court considering him a flight risk and concerned he could attempt to destroy evidence. But he again stressed that he "won't flee. I will defend (myself)", according to the Nikkei. "All the evidence is with Nissan and Nissan forbids all employees to talk to me," he added. Even his own lawyer has said it is unlikely he will be released before a trial, which could take up to six months to organise given the complexity of the case. Ghosn faces three separate charges, all of which he denies. He stands accused of under-reporting his income between 2010 and 2015 to the tune of five billion yen ($46 million) and continuing to do so for a further three years. He also stands accused of a complex scheme to try to pass off personal foreign exchange losses to Nissan and using company funds to reimburse a Saudi contact who stumped up collateral for him. He said the payment to this businessman, Khaled Juffali, had been signed by "four officers". 'Up and down' The executive, once feted for his turnaround of the struggling Nissan, has been removed as chairman of the Japanese firm as well as of Mitsubishi Motors. He has also resigned as chairman and chief executive of French company Renault. He told the Nikkei there was a plan to "integrate" the three companies but insisted it was intended to ensure there would be "autonomy under one holding company." After Ghosn's arrest, Saikawa referred to the "dark side" of his former mentor's tenure and accused him of having accrued too much power. But Ghosn rejected the characterisation of his tenure as a "dictatorship." "People translated strong leadership to a dictator, to distort reality," he told the Nikkei. They did so, he added, for the "purpose of getting rid of me". Another accusation against him revolves around some $9 million allegedly paid to him from a joint venture based in The Netherlands but Ghosn rejected this, saying the claims of improper payments were "a distortion of reality". He has also come under fire for luxury houses in Rio de Janeiro and Beirut — which Nissan alleges were paid for improperly via a subsidiary. He justified these residences on the grounds that he "needed a safe place where (he) can work and receive people in both Brazil and Lebanon." He stressed that the purchases were approved by the legal department. Asked about his conditions in the detention centre, Ghosn replied that the situation was "up and down" but said his health was "fine." Family members have said his detention conditions are overly difficult and even French President Emmanuel Macron has criticised them as "harsh." The reported comments by Ghosn were the first since a dramatic court appearance earlier this month in which he said he had been "wrongly accused and unfairly detained based on meritless and unsubstantiated accusations".

Ghosn says arrest was result of 'plot and treason': Report

The Tokyo District Court on Tuesday denied former <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/wife-says-ex-nissan-boss-ghosn-suffers-harsh-treatment-in-jail-190120">Nissan Motor Co Ltd Chairman Carlos Ghosn</a>'s request for release on bail after his indictment last week on two new charges, including for aggravated breach of trust.

Ghosn, the once-feted auto executive, awaits a lengthy criminal trial that could be as long as six months away, after his surprise arrest on November 19.

The Tokyo District Court on Tuesday denied former Nissan Motor Co Ltd Chairman Carlos Ghosn's request for release on bail after his indictment last week on two new charges, including for aggravated breach of trust.

The Tokyo District Court on Tuesday denied former Nissan Motor Co Ltd Chairman Carlos Ghosn's request for release on bail after his indictment last week on two new charges, including for aggravated breach of trust. Ghosn, the once-feted auto executive, awaits a lengthy criminal trial that could be as long as six months away, after his surprise arrest on November 19.

Tokyo court denies request for Carlos Ghosn's release on bail

The wife of ousted <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ghosn-lawyers-seek-bail-after-ex-nissan-chief-indicted-on-two-new-charges-189582">Nissan Motor Co Ltd chairman Carlos Ghosn</a> has urged New York-based Human Rights Watch to draw attention to his "harsh treatment" during detention in a Japanese jail, a letter seen by Reuters showed on Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/japan-court-rejects-nissan-boss-carlos-ghosns-release-bid-189183">Japanese authorities have charged Ghosn</a> with under-reporting income and aggravated breach of trust for temporarily transferring personal investment losses to Nissan in 2008.

In a nine-page letter to Kanae Doi, the rights group's Japan director, Carole Ghosn asked it to "shine a light on the harsh treatment of my husband and the human rights-related inequities inflicted upon him by the Japanese justice system".

Ghosn was in charge of an alliance that included Nissan Motor, Mitsubishi Motors and France's Renault until his November arrest and removal as chairman of the automakers sent shockwaves through the industry.

The government has denied requests to end his detention, which has run since November 19. Ghosn's lawyers have said it would probably take more than six months for his case to come to trial. (For Ghosn investigation timeline, click on)

Phones went unanswered at Japan's Foreign Ministry and the prime minister's office as Monday is a public holiday, but Nissan said it was not in a position to comment on the workings of the judicial system or any decision by the Tokyo prosecutors' office.

Officials of Human Rights Watch could not be reached for comment on the letter, but its Asia director, Brad Adams, said in an editorial on Thursday that Ghosn's case "has shone a light" on Japan's long-overlooked "hostage" justice system.

"Ghosn has not, and should not, receive preferential treatment," Adams wrote in the editorial, which appeared in the online edition of "The Diplomat".

"But if Japan wants to live up to its reputation as one of the world's most advanced democracies, it needs to modernize its criminal justice system," he added.

"Regardless of the serious allegations against him, or the controversies surrounding his tenure at Nissan, no one should have their rights violated in this way while facing criminal charges."

Nissan said last Friday it had filed a criminal complaint against Ghosn with Tokyo prosecutors related to the misuse of a "significant amount of the company's funds".

The former Nissan executive is being held in a 75-sq-foot (6.97-sqm) unheated cell and being denied daily medication, his wife said in her letter. He has lost 7 kg (15 lb) since being detained and eats only rice and barley, she added.

Prosecutors in Japan often try to extract confessions from prisoners in detainment that could last months, Carole Ghosn said in the letter.

"For hours each day, the prosecutors interrogate him, browbeat him, lecture him and berate him, outside the presence of his attorneys, in an effort to extract a confession," she said.

"No one should be forced to endure what my husband faces every day, particularly in a developed nation like Japan, the third largest economy in the world."

Ghosn said he was "wrongly accused and unfairly detained based on meritless and unsubstantiated accusations" during a Tokyo court proceeding last week, his first public appearance since his November arrest, at which he seemed noticeably thinner.

Japanese authorities have charged Ghosn with under-reporting income and aggravated breach of trust for temporarily transferring personal investment losses to Nissan in 2008.

The wife of ousted Nissan Motor Co Ltd chairman Carlos Ghosn has urged New York-based Human Rights Watch to draw attention to his "harsh treatment" during detention in a Japanese jail, a letter seen by Reuters showed on Sunday. Japanese authorities have charged Ghosn with under-reporting income and aggravated breach of trust for temporarily transferring personal investment losses to Nissan in 2008. In a nine-page letter to Kanae Doi, the rights group's Japan director, Carole Ghosn asked it to "shine a light on the harsh treatment of my husband and the human rights-related inequities inflicted upon him by the Japanese justice system". Ghosn was in charge of an alliance that included Nissan Motor, Mitsubishi Motors and France's Renault until his November arrest and removal as chairman of the automakers sent shockwaves through the industry. The government has denied requests to end his detention, which has run since November 19. Ghosn's lawyers have said it would probably take more than six months for his case to come to trial. (For Ghosn investigation timeline, click on) Phones went unanswered at Japan's Foreign Ministry and the prime minister's office as Monday is a public holiday, but Nissan said it was not in a position to comment on the workings of the judicial system or any decision by the Tokyo prosecutors' office. Officials of Human Rights Watch could not be reached for comment on the letter, but its Asia director, Brad Adams, said in an editorial on Thursday that Ghosn's case "has shone a light" on Japan's long-overlooked "hostage" justice system. "Ghosn has not, and should not, receive preferential treatment," Adams wrote in the editorial, which appeared in the online edition of "The Diplomat". "But if Japan wants to live up to its reputation as one of the world's most advanced democracies, it needs to modernize its criminal justice system," he added. "Regardless of the serious allegations against him, or the controversies surrounding his tenure at Nissan, no one should have their rights violated in this way while facing criminal charges." Nissan said last Friday it had filed a criminal complaint against Ghosn with Tokyo prosecutors related to the misuse of a "significant amount of the company's funds". The former Nissan executive is being held in a 75-sq-foot (6.97-sqm) unheated cell and being denied daily medication, his wife said in her letter. He has lost 7 kg (15 lb) since being detained and eats only rice and barley, she added. Prosecutors in Japan often try to extract confessions from prisoners in detainment that could last months, Carole Ghosn said in the letter. "For hours each day, the prosecutors interrogate him, browbeat him, lecture him and berate him, outside the presence of his attorneys, in an effort to extract a confession," she said. "No one should be forced to endure what my husband faces every day, particularly in a developed nation like Japan, the third largest economy in the world." Ghosn said he was "wrongly accused and unfairly detained based on meritless and unsubstantiated accusations" during a Tokyo court proceeding last week, his first public appearance since his November arrest, at which he seemed noticeably thinner.

Ex-Nissan boss Ghosn suffers 'harsh' treatment in jail, says wife

At least eight people were injured, one seriously, when a vehicle ploughed into crowds celebrating New Year's Day in Tokyo early on Tuesday.

A police spokesman said the driver had been detained and national broadcaster NHK said the man had been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

He was identified as Kazuhiro Kusakabe, 21, from Osaka, a major city about 400 km (250 miles) southwest of Tokyo, NHK said.

NHK said the suspect had initially described the incident as an "act of terror" but later said the attack was in retaliation for capital punishment.

The incident happened shortly after midnight local time on Monday in the popular tourist area of Harajuku, near Meiji Shrine, in central Tokyo.

"I can't believe it, this is a place I'm familiar with, so it's very shocking," said Tatsuhiro Yaegashi, a 27-year-old worker in the area.

The street was closed to vehicles at the time of the incident to accommodate the large number of pedestrians making their way to the shrine for New Year's prayers.

TV pictures of the scene on Tuesday showed a grey coloured light vehicle used in the attack, positioned across the street. The front of the vehicle was badly damaged and dozens of police and rescue officials were at the scene.

The suspect fled from the scene and assaulted a passerby before he was captured 20 minutes later, NHK said. About 20 litres of kerosene were found in the vehicle.

"I learned about the incident later. But I shudder to think. If the incident had happened five minutes later, I would've been involved," a woman who walked past the scene shortly after the incident told NHK.

In a similar attack in 2008, a man who said he was tired of life drove a rental truck into a crowd of pedestrians in Tokyo before jumping out and stabbing several people. At least seven people were killed and a dozen injured.

At least eight people were injured, one seriously, when a vehicle ploughed into crowds celebrating New Year's Day in Tokyo early on Tuesday. A police spokesman said the driver had been detained and national broadcaster NHK said the man had been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

At least eight people were injured, one seriously, when a vehicle ploughed into crowds celebrating New Year's Day in Tokyo early on Tuesday. A police spokesman said the driver had been detained and national broadcaster NHK said the man had been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. He was identified as Kazuhiro Kusakabe, 21, from Osaka, a major city about 400 km (250 miles) southwest of Tokyo, NHK said. NHK said the suspect had initially described the incident as an "act of terror" but later said the attack was in retaliation for capital punishment. The incident happened shortly after midnight local time on Monday in the popular tourist area of Harajuku, near Meiji Shrine, in central Tokyo. "I can't believe it, this is a place I'm familiar with, so it's very shocking," said Tatsuhiro Yaegashi, a 27-year-old worker in the area. The street was closed to vehicles at the time of the incident to accommodate the large number of pedestrians making their way to the shrine for New Year's prayers. TV pictures of the scene on Tuesday showed a grey coloured light vehicle used in the attack, positioned across the street. The front of the vehicle was badly damaged and dozens of police and rescue officials were at the scene. The suspect fled from the scene and assaulted a passerby before he was captured 20 minutes later, NHK said. About 20 litres of kerosene were found in the vehicle. "I learned about the incident later. But I shudder to think. If the incident had happened five minutes later, I would've been involved," a woman who walked past the scene shortly after the incident told NHK. In a similar attack in 2008, a man who said he was tired of life drove a rental truck into a crowd of pedestrians in Tokyo before jumping out and stabbing several people. At least seven people were killed and a dozen injured.

Vehicle ploughs into New Year's crowd in Tokyo, injures eight people

In pics: All decked up, countries gear for New Year celebrations

Japanese authorities Tuesday released on bail a Nissan executive accused of a key role in the financial misconduct case involving auto <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ghosns-detention-extended-by-10-days-through-january-1-185943">tycoon Carlos Ghosn</a>, who remains in detention.

Greg Kelly, wearing a casual zip-up jacket and looking tired, walked out of the Tokyo Detention Centre more than a month after his arrest and got into a waiting taxi without speaking to the media.

In a statement prepared before his release, Kelly said he was arrested "for unexpected suspicion, during which I had hard times for my disease in this detention facility."

He said he would now consult a doctor regarding a health problem.

"I expect that the trial will start soon. I have not been involved in alleged false entry. I believe my innocence will be revealed in the trial," he said in the statement, according to Kyodo News.

"I would like to have a judgement of non-guilty and restore my impaired reputation, and then return to my family as soon as possible," he said.

His release came after the Tokyo District Court had approved a request by his lawyers.

His bail was at 70 million yen ($635,000), which he paid in cash, according to the court.

Prosecutors appealed the decision, but the court turned them down.

Kelly was granted bail reportedly on condition that he would not leave Japan, make contact with anyone involved in the case, or destroy evidence.

He would also need court approval to attend board meetings at Nissan, public broadcaster NHK said.

The 62-year-old American was arrested on November 19 at the same time as Ghosn on allegations he helped him under-report his compensation at Nissan for years.

The bail order comes after Kelly's wife issued a video statement saying she was "extremely concerned about his health."

Kelly suffers from a spinal condition and was reportedly due to undergo surgery before his arrest in Tokyo.

"Greg was tricked into coming to Japan and betrayed by a group of Nissan executives as part of a political power grab. Their dishonourable motives are clear," Dee Kelly claimed.

She said her husband, once Ghosn's right-hand man, had been "caught up in an international plot by some at Nissan to take control".

Rift in alliance

Kelly is accused of helping construct an alleged scheme by which Ghosn under-reported his salary for a period of eight years.

The pair has already been indicted over their alleged involvement in the scheme in the five years to 2015. Prosecutors are still investigating the period from 2015.

Ghosn also faces an additional allegation involving claims he shifted a personal investment loss of more than $16 million to Nissan's books with help from a Saudi acquaintance.

He is expected to remain in detention through Christmas and the start of 2019, with prosecutors able to apply for an additional 10-day extension when his current detention period expires on January 1.

Ghosn's fall from power at Nissan has exposed a deep rift in the firm's three-way alliance with Renault and Mitsubishi Motors -- which outsold all of its rival groups last year.

While Nissan and Mitsubishi quickly removed Ghosn from his leadership roles after his arrest, Renault has been more cautious about the charges and the case has stoked tensions between the French firm and Nissan.

Ghosn was once revered in Japan for his role in turning around Nissan and forging the fractious alliance, in which Renault remains the dominant shareholder.

But his former protege, current Nissan CEO Hiroto Saikawa, has harshly criticised the Franco-Brazilian-Lebanese tycoon, accusing him of having accrued too much power and referring to the "dark side" of Ghosn's tenure.

Ghosn, who denies the allegations against him, is being held at the detention centre's infirmary and has a bed and heating, according to a source with knowledge of his condition.

Japanese authorities Tuesday released on bail a Nissan executive accused of a key role in the financial misconduct case involving auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn, who remains in detention.

Japanese authorities Tuesday released on bail a Nissan executive accused of a key role in the financial misconduct case involving auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn, who remains in detention. Greg Kelly, wearing a casual zip-up jacket and looking tired, walked out of the Tokyo Detention Centre more than a month after his arrest and got into a waiting taxi without speaking to the media. In a statement prepared before his release, Kelly said he was arrested "for unexpected suspicion, during which I had hard times for my disease in this detention facility." He said he would now consult a doctor regarding a health problem. "I expect that the trial will start soon. I have not been involved in alleged false entry. I believe my innocence will be revealed in the trial," he said in the statement, according to Kyodo News. "I would like to have a judgement of non-guilty and restore my impaired reputation, and then return to my family as soon as possible," he said. His release came after the Tokyo District Court had approved a request by his lawyers. His bail was at 70 million yen ($635,000), which he paid in cash, according to the court. Prosecutors appealed the decision, but the court turned them down. Kelly was granted bail reportedly on condition that he would not leave Japan, make contact with anyone involved in the case, or destroy evidence. He would also need court approval to attend board meetings at Nissan, public broadcaster NHK said. The 62-year-old American was arrested on November 19 at the same time as Ghosn on allegations he helped him under-report his compensation at Nissan for years. The bail order comes after Kelly's wife issued a video statement saying she was "extremely concerned about his health." Kelly suffers from a spinal condition and was reportedly due to undergo surgery before his arrest in Tokyo. "Greg was tricked into coming to Japan and betrayed by a group of Nissan executives as part of a political power grab. Their dishonourable motives are clear," Dee Kelly claimed. She said her husband, once Ghosn's right-hand man, had been "caught up in an international plot by some at Nissan to take control". Rift in alliance Kelly is accused of helping construct an alleged scheme by which Ghosn under-reported his salary for a period of eight years. The pair has already been indicted over their alleged involvement in the scheme in the five years to 2015. Prosecutors are still investigating the period from 2015. Ghosn also faces an additional allegation involving claims he shifted a personal investment loss of more than $16 million to Nissan's books with help from a Saudi acquaintance. He is expected to remain in detention through Christmas and the start of 2019, with prosecutors able to apply for an additional 10-day extension when his current detention period expires on January 1. Ghosn's fall from power at Nissan has exposed a deep rift in the firm's three-way alliance with Renault and Mitsubishi Motors -- which outsold all of its rival groups last year. While Nissan and Mitsubishi quickly removed Ghosn from his leadership roles after his arrest, Renault has been more cautious about the charges and the case has stoked tensions between the French firm and Nissan. Ghosn was once revered in Japan for his role in turning around Nissan and forging the fractious alliance, in which Renault remains the dominant shareholder. But his former protege, current Nissan CEO Hiroto Saikawa, has harshly criticised the Franco-Brazilian-Lebanese tycoon, accusing him of having accrued too much power and referring to the "dark side" of Ghosn's tenure. Ghosn, who denies the allegations against him, is being held at the detention centre's infirmary and has a bed and heating, according to a source with knowledge of his condition.

Nissan executive Greg Kelly linked to Ghosn case released on bail

The 2020 Summer Olympics budget remains unchanged at $12.6 billion after increases in some areas were offset by reductions in others, with Games organisers acknowledging on Friday that more work was needed to curb spending.

Organisers have been working to cut expenses since a study warned they could balloon to four times estimates made during the bidding process, while the International Olympic Committee (IOC) wants Tokyo to set a good example for future host cities.

However, the third version of the budget announced on Friday was equal to the projection issued last year, after organisers had managed to reduce it from the $14 billion outlay unveiled two years ago.

"There is still a lot of work to be done to control expenditure," Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto said in a statement.

"But with the cooperation of the IOC, Tokyo 2020 will continue to make best efforts to maximize revenues, contain costs and keep its budget within 600 billion yen ($5.6 billion)," he said, referring to the organising committee's portion of the overall budget.

Organisers said requirements were becoming clearer with less than 600 days to go until the event, prompting them to bump up estimates for transportation and Games operations by $100 million apiece.

However, those increases were offset by a reduction in a contingencies reserve and through other savings, with organisers also highlighting robust domestic sponsor revenues, up $100 million from last year to $3 billion.

Of the overall budget, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government accounts for $5.6 billion and the central government $1.4 billion, unchanged from last year.

(Figures are based on the 107 yen per dollar rate set in version 1 of the budget.)

The 2020 Summer Olympics budget remains unchanged at $12.6 billion after increases in some areas were offset by reductions in others, with Games organisers acknowledging on Friday that more work was needed to curb spending.

The 2020 Summer Olympics budget remains unchanged at $12.6 billion after increases in some areas were offset by reductions in others, with Games organisers acknowledging on Friday that more work was needed to curb spending. Organisers have been working to cut expenses since a study warned they could balloon to four times estimates made during the bidding process, while the International Olympic Committee (IOC) wants Tokyo to set a good example for future host cities. However, the third version of the budget announced on Friday was equal to the projection issued last year, after organisers had managed to reduce it from the $14 billion outlay unveiled two years ago. "There is still a lot of work to be done to control expenditure," Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto said in a statement. "But with the cooperation of the IOC, Tokyo 2020 will continue to make best efforts to maximize revenues, contain costs and keep its budget within 600 billion yen ($5.6 billion)," he said, referring to the organising committee's portion of the overall budget. Organisers said requirements were becoming clearer with less than 600 days to go until the event, prompting them to bump up estimates for transportation and Games operations by $100 million apiece. However, those increases were offset by a reduction in a contingencies reserve and through other savings, with organisers also highlighting robust domestic sponsor revenues, up $100 million from last year to $3 billion. Of the overall budget, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government accounts for $5.6 billion and the central government $1.4 billion, unchanged from last year. (Figures are based on the 107 yen per dollar rate set in version 1 of the budget.)

Tokyo keeps budget at $12.6 billion, more work needed

Nissan's Carlos Ghosn re-arrested

A powerful blast ripped through a restaurant in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eu-japan-to-form-worlds-largest-free-trade-area-in-2019-183602">northern Japan</a> late Sunday, injuring 42 people, starting fires that took hours to bring under control and leading several neighbouring buildings to collapse, officials and reports said.

Images from the scene showed large flames and plumes of smoke rising in the night air after the blast in the northern city of Sapporo.

The cause of the blast was still under investigation, police said. One witness reportedly said he had smelled gas after the explosion.

A police official for the Hokkaido region told AFP "there are 42 injuries" but no one was killed.

The Jiji Press agency said one of the injured was seriously hurt, suffering burns to his face, but none of the victims had life-threatening wounds.

Several children were reportedly among those hurt in the explosion, which hit in the city's Toyohira district.

"I heard a 'bang,' which sounded like thunder, and my condo was shaken," a man in his 50s who lived nearby told The Japan Times.

The building that housed the restaurant was heavily damaged, as were other nearby businesses, including a real estate company, Jiji said.

National broadcaster NHK said it took firefighters several hours to extinguish the flames, with dozens of vehicles mobilised to deal with the accident.

Police had initially warned of the possibility of secondary explosions, according to Kyodo, which described buildings collapsing following the incident around 8.30 pm.&nbsp;

The city government had opened at shelter to house dozens of people whose homes were damaged in the blast.

A powerful blast ripped through a restaurant in northern Japan late Sunday, injuring 42 people, starting fires that took hours to bring under control and leading several neighbouring buildings to collapse, officials and reports said.

A powerful blast ripped through a restaurant in northern Japan late Sunday, injuring 42 people, starting fires that took hours to bring under control and leading several neighbouring buildings to collapse, officials and reports said. Images from the scene showed large flames and plumes of smoke rising in the night air after the blast in the northern city of Sapporo. The cause of the blast was still under investigation, police said. One witness reportedly said he had smelled gas after the explosion. A police official for the Hokkaido region told AFP "there are 42 injuries" but no one was killed. The Jiji Press agency said one of the injured was seriously hurt, suffering burns to his face, but none of the victims had life-threatening wounds. Several children were reportedly among those hurt in the explosion, which hit in the city's Toyohira district. "I heard a 'bang,' which sounded like thunder, and my condo was shaken," a man in his 50s who lived nearby told The Japan Times. The building that housed the restaurant was heavily damaged, as were other nearby businesses, including a real estate company, Jiji said. National broadcaster NHK said it took firefighters several hours to extinguish the flames, with dozens of vehicles mobilised to deal with the accident. Police had initially warned of the possibility of secondary explosions, according to Kyodo, which described buildings collapsing following the incident around 8.30 pm. The city government had opened at shelter to house dozens of people whose homes were damaged in the blast.

Video: 42 injured after powerful blast in Japan's Sapporo

More than 40 people were injured in an explosion on Sunday at a bar in Sapporo in northern Japan, Kyodo news agency reported.

There was no immediate word on the cause of the blast, which the agency said had caused a number of buildings to collapse. Kyodo said one person was in critical condition.

Video of the incident posted on social media showed flames and dark smoke billowing into the night sky and people scrambling to safety beside a street strewn with debris and shattered glass.

Police and firefighters worked to get the site under control, fighting flames and smoke, and warned people in the neighbourhood of the possibility of another explosion, the agency reported.

"I heard a bang which sounded like thunder, and my condo was shaken," a man who lives nearby was quoted as saying by the Japan Times. Eyewitnesses reported smelling gas in the area following the explosion, which Kyodo said happened at 8.30 p.m. (1130 GMT).

More than 40 people were injured in an explosion on Sunday at a bar in Sapporo in northern Japan, Kyodo news agency reported. There was no immediate word on the cause of the blast, which the agency said had caused a number of buildings to collapse.

More than 40 people were injured in an explosion on Sunday at a bar in Sapporo in northern Japan, Kyodo news agency reported. There was no immediate word on the cause of the blast, which the agency said had caused a number of buildings to collapse. Kyodo said one person was in critical condition. Video of the incident posted on social media showed flames and dark smoke billowing into the night sky and people scrambling to safety beside a street strewn with debris and shattered glass. Police and firefighters worked to get the site under control, fighting flames and smoke, and warned people in the neighbourhood of the possibility of another explosion, the agency reported. "I heard a bang which sounded like thunder, and my condo was shaken," a man who lives nearby was quoted as saying by the Japan Times. Eyewitnesses reported smelling gas in the area following the explosion, which Kyodo said happened at 8.30 p.m. (1130 GMT).

More than 40 injured in explosion in Japan's Sapporo: State media

Japanese prosecutors have <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nissan-chairman-ghosn-faces-new-under-reporting-charge-worth-35-million-181672">formally charged Carlos Ghosn</a> with financial misconduct for under-reporting his salary, local media reported on Monday, three weeks after the auto tycoon's arrest stunned the business world.

Former Nissan chairman Ghosn, 64, has been in detention since his November 19 arrest on suspicion of under-declaring his income by some five billion yen ($44 million) between 2010 and 2015.

Authorities are also widely expected to re-arrest him later Monday over separate allegations that he also under-reported his income by a further four billion over the past three years.

Under Japanese law, suspects can be re-arrested several times for different allegations, allowing prosecutors to question them for prolonged periods -- a system that has drawn criticism internationally.

Monday was the final day prosecutors can hold Ghosn and close aide Greg Kelly before either charging or re-arresting them, and a further arrest would allow them another 22 days of questioning.

In addition to charges against Ghosn, prosecutors also indicted Kelly and Nissan itself, according to local media, as the company submitted the official documents that under-reported the income.

Ghosn denies the charges and is in a "combative" frame of mind, according to sources at Renault, the company he still formally leads -- even if the French car giant has appointed an interim chairman.

The Japanese firms in the three-way alliance with Renault -- Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors -- have both sacked the Franco-Lebanese-Brazilian as chairman.

Lebanese phoenix&nbsp;

The millionaire auto sector star, who attracted some criticism for a perceived lavish lifestyle, is now alone in a spartan cell in a Tokyo detention centre, in a tiny room measuring just three tatami mats -- around five square metres.

He has reportedly told embassy visitors he is being well treated but has complained of the cold, with Monday's temperature in the Japanese capital hovering around five degrees Celsius.

He spends his time reading books and news reports and is said to be unhappy about the rice-based food.

According to local news agency Kyodo, he has admitted signing documents to defer part of his salary until after retirement but said this amount did not need to be declared as it has not yet been definitively fixed.

A source close to the investigation has said Ghosn and Kelly allegedly put the system in place after a new law came in obliging the highest-paid members of the firm to declare their salary.

Ghosn is suspected of deferring part of his pay to avoid criticism from staff and shareholders that his salary was too generous.

Nissan is appealing to a court in Rio de Janeiro to block access by Ghosn's representatives to a luxury apartment on Copacabana Beach&nbsp;

"We are closely watching if he is actually indicted and then found guilty," said Satoru Takada, an analyst at TIW, a Tokyo-based research and consulting firm.

"If he is exempted from prosecution or found innocent, it is going to create huge confusion in Nissan's management," Takada told AFP.

It is unclear if Ghosn can be bailed before a potential trial.

In Japan, prosecutors and defendants begin a trial at a district court and can appeal to a high court and the Supreme Court. It may take several years before reaching a final judgement.&nbsp;

If found guilty, Ghosn could face a 10-year prison sentence.

The affair represents a staggering turnaround for a figure celebrated for saving Nissan from the brink of bankruptcy and rebuilding it as a money-making subsidiary of Renault.

Nissan has begun a process of choosing Ghosn's successor, with the final decision expected on December 17.

His arrest has sparked incredulity at Renault, which owns 43 per cent of Nissan and says it has not seen a detailed account of the charges against Ghosn.

It has also fuelled anger in Lebanon, with digital billboards around Beirut proclaiming "We are all Carlos Ghosn" under a picture of the magnate.

"A Lebanese phoenix will not be scorched by a Japanese sun," Interior Minister Nohad Machnouk has declared.

Japanese prosecutors have formally charged Carlos Ghosn with financial misconduct for under-reporting his salary, local media reported on Monday, three weeks after the auto tycoon's arrest stunned the business world.

Japanese prosecutors have formally charged Carlos Ghosn with financial misconduct for under-reporting his salary, local media reported on Monday, three weeks after the auto tycoon's arrest stunned the business world. Former Nissan chairman Ghosn, 64, has been in detention since his November 19 arrest on suspicion of under-declaring his income by some five billion yen ($44 million) between 2010 and 2015. Authorities are also widely expected to re-arrest him later Monday over separate allegations that he also under-reported his income by a further four billion over the past three years. Under Japanese law, suspects can be re-arrested several times for different allegations, allowing prosecutors to question them for prolonged periods -- a system that has drawn criticism internationally. Monday was the final day prosecutors can hold Ghosn and close aide Greg Kelly before either charging or re-arresting them, and a further arrest would allow them another 22 days of questioning. In addition to charges against Ghosn, prosecutors also indicted Kelly and Nissan itself, according to local media, as the company submitted the official documents that under-reported the income. Ghosn denies the charges and is in a "combative" frame of mind, according to sources at Renault, the company he still formally leads -- even if the French car giant has appointed an interim chairman. The Japanese firms in the three-way alliance with Renault -- Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors -- have both sacked the Franco-Lebanese-Brazilian as chairman. Lebanese phoenix The millionaire auto sector star, who attracted some criticism for a perceived lavish lifestyle, is now alone in a spartan cell in a Tokyo detention centre, in a tiny room measuring just three tatami mats -- around five square metres. He has reportedly told embassy visitors he is being well treated but has complained of the cold, with Monday's temperature in the Japanese capital hovering around five degrees Celsius. He spends his time reading books and news reports and is said to be unhappy about the rice-based food. According to local news agency Kyodo, he has admitted signing documents to defer part of his salary until after retirement but said this amount did not need to be declared as it has not yet been definitively fixed. A source close to the investigation has said Ghosn and Kelly allegedly put the system in place after a new law came in obliging the highest-paid members of the firm to declare their salary. Ghosn is suspected of deferring part of his pay to avoid criticism from staff and shareholders that his salary was too generous. Nissan is appealing to a court in Rio de Janeiro to block access by Ghosn's representatives to a luxury apartment on Copacabana Beach "We are closely watching if he is actually indicted and then found guilty," said Satoru Takada, an analyst at TIW, a Tokyo-based research and consulting firm. "If he is exempted from prosecution or found innocent, it is going to create huge confusion in Nissan's management," Takada told AFP. It is unclear if Ghosn can be bailed before a potential trial. In Japan, prosecutors and defendants begin a trial at a district court and can appeal to a high court and the Supreme Court. It may take several years before reaching a final judgement. If found guilty, Ghosn could face a 10-year prison sentence. The affair represents a staggering turnaround for a figure celebrated for saving Nissan from the brink of bankruptcy and rebuilding it as a money-making subsidiary of Renault. Nissan has begun a process of choosing Ghosn's successor, with the final decision expected on December 17. His arrest has sparked incredulity at Renault, which owns 43 per cent of Nissan and says it has not seen a detailed account of the charges against Ghosn. It has also fuelled anger in Lebanon, with digital billboards around Beirut proclaiming "We are all Carlos Ghosn" under a picture of the magnate. "A Lebanese phoenix will not be scorched by a Japanese sun," Interior Minister Nohad Machnouk has declared.

Ex-Nissan chief Ghosn rearrested, authorities put new charges: Report

Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn was arrested on Monday in Tokyo for financial misconduct, news agency AFP reported quoting Japanese media.

"The Tokyo District Public Prosecutor's Office arrested Nissan chairman Ghosn on suspicion of violation of the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act," AFP quoted public broadcaster NHK.

Ghosn was accused by automaker Nissan of "significant acts of misconduct" including underreporting his salary. The company also stated that it would move to fire him.&nbsp;Ghosn leads an alliance of Nissan, Renault and Mitsubishi.

Nissan, in a statement, noted that a probe has been underway on Ghosn for months after receiving a report from a whistleblower. The company added that it had uncovered misconduct going back several years.&nbsp;

According to reports, Ghosn had used company money for personal use. Ghosn is charged of under-reporting nearly 10 billion yen ($88.70 million) in compensation as nearly 5 billion yen, Reuters reported quoting Jiji news agency.&nbsp;

The reported arrest of Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn will not affect the Japanese automaker's relationship with Renault and Mitsubishi, CEO Hiroto Saikawa said Monday.&nbsp;

"The partnership among the three entities will not be affected by this event, rather we will closely work together with all the partners to contain any possible confusion," Saikawa told reporters after Ghosn's reported arrest for financial misconduct.

Nissan will hold a board meeting on Thursday to fire chairman Carlos Ghosn, who was reportedly under arrest over allegations of financial misconduct, the company's chief executive officer said.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;French automaker Renault's shares&nbsp;tumbled more than 12 per cent on Monday in late-morning trading in Paris after CEO Carlos Ghosn was accused of underreporting his salary as chairman of Japan's Nissan.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn was arrested on Monday in Tokyo for financial misconduct, news agency AFP reported quoting Japanese media. "The Tokyo District Public Prosecutor's Office arrested Nissan chairman Ghosn on suspicion of violation of the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act," AFP quoted public broadcaster NHK.

Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn was arrested on Monday in Tokyo for financial misconduct, news agency AFP reported quoting Japanese media. "The Tokyo District Public Prosecutor's Office arrested Nissan chairman Ghosn on suspicion of violation of the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act," AFP quoted public broadcaster NHK. Ghosn was accused by automaker Nissan of "significant acts of misconduct" including underreporting his salary. The company also stated that it would move to fire him. Ghosn leads an alliance of Nissan, Renault and Mitsubishi. Nissan, in a statement, noted that a probe has been underway on Ghosn for months after receiving a report from a whistleblower. The company added that it had uncovered misconduct going back several years. According to reports, Ghosn had used company money for personal use. Ghosn is charged of under-reporting nearly 10 billion yen ($88.70 million) in compensation as nearly 5 billion yen, Reuters reported quoting Jiji news agency. The reported arrest of Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn will not affect the Japanese automaker's relationship with Renault and Mitsubishi, CEO Hiroto Saikawa said Monday. "The partnership among the three entities will not be affected by this event, rather we will closely work together with all the partners to contain any possible confusion," Saikawa told reporters after Ghosn's reported arrest for financial misconduct. Nissan will hold a board meeting on Thursday to fire chairman Carlos Ghosn, who was reportedly under arrest over allegations of financial misconduct, the company's chief executive officer said. Meanwhile, French automaker Renault's shares tumbled more than 12 per cent on Monday in late-morning trading in Paris after CEO Carlos Ghosn was accused of underreporting his salary as chairman of Japan's Nissan. (With inputs from agencies)

Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn arrested in Tokyo for financial misconduct

Tens of thousands of fans in Tokyo queued hours ahead of a concert by the South Korean boy band BTS on Tuesday (13 November), despite a furore in the media over the band's use of a photo on a t-shirt<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/k-pop-band-bts-show-cancelled-on-japan-tv-over-atom-bomb-t-shirt-furore-176331"> </a>interpreted as commemorating the use of the A-bomb on Hiroshima and another believed to be Nazi uniforms.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/k-pop-band-bts-show-cancelled-on-japan-tv-over-atom-bomb-t-shirt-furore-176331">A Japanese TV station cancelled last Friday's show with BTS after the news that one member</a> had worn a t-shirt that sparked anger on social media and was interpreted as commemorating the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. The Simon Wiesenthal Center, a Jewish human rights organisation, also condemned BTS in a written statement published on Sunday (November 11) saying the band was "mocking the past" after, according to Japanese media, previous photos surfaced of the group wearing hats with the Nazi SS death head logo and waving flags resembling the Nazi swastika.

However, for many of the thousands of fans who thronged the 55,000-seater Tokyo Dome, they believed the boy band had not done this intentionally.

Despite twitter chatter of possible anti-Korean protests, just one right-wing protester turned up to denounce the band, talking for over three hours ahead of the show and handing out leaflets. No large-scale protests were seen by the time the band's concert kicked off.

The seven-member boy band is planning to tour across Japan by visiting Osaka in November, Nagoya in December and Fukuoka in February 2019.

Tens of thousands of fans in Tokyo queued hours ahead of a concert by the South Korean boy band BTS on Tuesday (13 November), despite a furore in the media over the band's use of a photo on a t-shirt interpreted as commemorating the use of the A-bomb on Hiroshima and another believed to be Nazi uniforms.

Tens of thousands of fans in Tokyo queued hours ahead of a concert by the South Korean boy band BTS on Tuesday (13 November), despite a furore in the media over the band's use of a photo on a t-shirt interpreted as commemorating the use of the A-bomb on Hiroshima and another believed to be Nazi uniforms. A Japanese TV station cancelled last Friday's show with BTS after the news that one member had worn a t-shirt that sparked anger on social media and was interpreted as commemorating the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. The Simon Wiesenthal Center, a Jewish human rights organisation, also condemned BTS in a written statement published on Sunday (November 11) saying the band was "mocking the past" after, according to Japanese media, previous photos surfaced of the group wearing hats with the Nazi SS death head logo and waving flags resembling the Nazi swastika. However, for many of the thousands of fans who thronged the 55,000-seater Tokyo Dome, they believed the boy band had not done this intentionally. Despite twitter chatter of possible anti-Korean protests, just one right-wing protester turned up to denounce the band, talking for over three hours ahead of the show and handing out leaflets. No large-scale protests were seen by the time the band's concert kicked off. The seven-member boy band is planning to tour across Japan by visiting Osaka in November, Nagoya in December and Fukuoka in February 2019.

Despite atomic bomb t-shirt furore, fans throng K-Pop band BTS concert in Tokyo

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was one of ten people in Tokyo on Tuesday (November 6) to receive one of Japan's most prestigious awards from Emperor Akihito.

The 93-year-old, who is on his third trip to Japan since taking office in May, received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Paulownia Flowers, traditionally conferred on politicians, former prime ministers, ministers, diplomats and judges at the Imperial palace and directly from the Emperor.

Other foreign statesmen to receive the prize included Singapore's founding father, the late Lee Kuan Yew, and India's former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

It was expected to be the last award ceremony conducted by Akihito before he abdicates on April 30, 2019.

After the ceremony, Mahathir sat down for talks with his Japanese counterpart, Shinzo Abe. The pair reportedly discussed the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement, as well as various investments and regional issues.

Mahathir later told media he felt honoured to receive the award, and added that he is looking to enhance his "Look East" policy, which aims to strengthen ties with east Asia, with the cooperation of Japan, particularly in the field of education.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was one of ten people in Tokyo on Tuesday (November 6) to receive one of Japan's most prestigious awards from Emperor Akihito.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was one of ten people in Tokyo on Tuesday (November 6) to receive one of Japan's most prestigious awards from Emperor Akihito. The 93-year-old, who is on his third trip to Japan since taking office in May, received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Paulownia Flowers, traditionally conferred on politicians, former prime ministers, ministers, diplomats and judges at the Imperial palace and directly from the Emperor. Other foreign statesmen to receive the prize included Singapore's founding father, the late Lee Kuan Yew, and India's former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. It was expected to be the last award ceremony conducted by Akihito before he abdicates on April 30, 2019. After the ceremony, Mahathir sat down for talks with his Japanese counterpart, Shinzo Abe. The pair reportedly discussed the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement, as well as various investments and regional issues. Mahathir later told media he felt honoured to receive the award, and added that he is looking to enhance his "Look East" policy, which aims to strengthen ties with east Asia, with the cooperation of Japan, particularly in the field of education.

Malaysia's Mahathir visits Tokyo, meets Japan's Emperor and PM Abe

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