India and Japan are holding the second part of a 2+2 meeting between the defence and foreign ministers of the two sides. Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh met his Japanese counterpart in Tokyo today.

Tokyo: Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh meets Japanese counterpart

Indian and Japanese defence ministers meet for bilateral talks

A 38-year-old man in Tokyo makes a living from doing nothing. People pay Morimoto for accompanying them to a dinner, or the park, sometimes he just listens to his clients rant. Palki Sharma brings you the story of the man with a dream job.

Gravitas: Meet Shoji Morimoto, the Japanese man who is paid for doing nothing

The searing heat across the planet has not only affected humans but animals as well. Now, a Tokyo-based clothing maker named Sweet Mommy has come up with a novel clothing solution that may help pet animals brave the scorching heat.&nbsp;

Working with a group of veterinarians, the clothing company has added wearable fans to the clothes of pets. Attached to a mesh outfit is a wearable fan that weighs 80 grammes and is operated by a battery.

Reportedly, the device blows air, all around the animal's body and comes in five different sizes. The reception has been fairly decent as well. Since its debut in July, the company has already received more than 100 orders. A single piece costs as much as $74.&nbsp;

<img alt="83mr83hg" src="https://c.ndtvimg.com/2022-08/83mr83hg_cats_625x300_01_August_22.jpg" />

Speaking about the motivation behind the ingenious&nbsp;design, Rei Uzawa, the president of the company said, "There was almost no rainy season this year, so the hot days came early, and in that sense, I think we developed a product that is right for the market,"

Pet owners in Japan have been using dry-ice packs to keep their pets cool. However, with pets roaming around frequently, it becomes harder to keep it strapped on. The ergonomic design of the device by Rei Uzawa and her company is expected to bring relief to both the pets and their owners.&nbsp;

Read More:&nbsp;Japan: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-government-calls-for-highest-level-of-vigilance-as-covid-cases-rise-499841">Government calls for `highest level of vigilance` as Covid cases rise</a>

Why has the need for such clothes arisen in Japan?

It is pertinent to note that Japan has already witnessed its hottest day ever in the month of June when the temperature crossed the 35ºC barrier. It was the highest temperature ever recorded since record-keeping began in 1875.&nbsp;

The rise in mercury was unusual for the month of June as it is considered a rainy season. However, after the hot weather persisted,&nbsp;the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) was forced to declare an end to the rainy season in the capital city of Tokyo and surrounding areas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

The searing heat across the planet has not only affected humans but animals as well. Now, a Tokyo-based clothing maker named Sweet Mommy has come up with a novel clothing solution that may help pet animals brave the scorching heat.

The searing heat across the planet has not only affected humans but animals as well. Now, a Tokyo-based clothing maker named Sweet Mommy has come up with a novel clothing solution that may help pet animals brave the scorching heat. Working with a group of veterinarians, the clothing company has added wearable fans to the clothes of pets. Attached to a mesh outfit is a wearable fan that weighs 80 grammes and is operated by a battery. Reportedly, the device blows air, all around the animal's body and comes in five different sizes. The reception has been fairly decent as well. Since its debut in July, the company has already received more than 100 orders. A single piece costs as much as $74. Speaking about the motivation behind the ingenious design, Rei Uzawa, the president of the company said, "There was almost no rainy season this year, so the hot days came early, and in that sense, I think we developed a product that is right for the market," Pet owners in Japan have been using dry-ice packs to keep their pets cool. However, with pets roaming around frequently, it becomes harder to keep it strapped on. The ergonomic design of the device by Rei Uzawa and her company is expected to bring relief to both the pets and their owners. Read More: Japan: Government calls for `highest level of vigilance` as Covid cases rise Why has the need for such clothes arisen in Japan? It is pertinent to note that Japan has already witnessed its hottest day ever in the month of June when the temperature crossed the 35ºC barrier. It was the highest temperature ever recorded since record-keeping began in 1875. The rise in mercury was unusual for the month of June as it is considered a rainy season. However, after the hot weather persisted, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) was forced to declare an end to the rainy season in the capital city of Tokyo and surrounding areas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wearable fans in clothes? Pet animals in Japan get a breather from the scorching heat

Tomohiro Kato, a 39-year-old man who killed seven people in Tokyo in 2008, was hanged at the behest of the Japanese government on Tuesday morning.

Japan: Man executed for killing 7 in truck ramming rampage in 2008

Neeraj Chopra remains India’s flag bearer in the sport of Athletics. Chopra ended India’s 19-year wait for a medal at the World Athletics Championships by winning Silver in the Men’s Javelin. The reigning Olympic champion spoke to Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo on his performance and opened up on how he was forced to dig deep and come from behind following a poor start.

Chopra ends India’s 19-year wait for a World Championship medal

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra scripted history as he bagged his maiden silver medal in the men's javelin throw final at the World Athletics Championships 2022. He spoke to WION and said need to keep focus till last moment.

Neeraj Chopra wins silver medal in World Athletics Championships

Neeraj Chopra won the country's first silver medal in Javelin at the World Athletics Championship. World Championship silver medalist Neeraj Chopra spoke to WION and said it feels good that I have won a medal.

WION Exclusive: 'You have to believe in yourself,' says Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra

New coronavirus cases in Japan's capital hit a record on Thursday, surging past 30,000 for the first time since the pandemic began, spurring officials to call for more vigilance.

Tokyo's 31,878 new infections far outstripped a previous high in February, and many other regions also reported highs. Thursday's national tally of 186,229 new infections was a record.

Despite few serious cases and deaths, officials warned hospitals were starting to feel the pressure from rising numbers.

"We need to keep a close eye on the infection situation, including the issue of access to medical services, with the highest vigilance," Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a regular news conference.

New COVID-19 infections nationwide were at their highest ever, he added.

Despite the surge, officials, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, have not called for new coronavirus curbs. Nearly all Japanese still wear masks indoors, and many use them outside as well, while most stores require them.

Tokyo residents said the surge was worrying.

"I think it's really shocking that it's more than 30,000," said Ai Okamura, a 30-year-old office worker. "Because I live with my grandmother, it makes me feel much more cautious."

Others said they felt people had relaxed their vigilance in recent months as infections fell.

"Maybe since spring, everyone has calmed down and gone back to normal," said systems engineer Shimichi Koyama, aged 55.

"So it was predictable to a certain extent," he said, referring to the new surge.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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New coronavirus cases in Japan's capital hit a record on Thursday, surging past 30,000 for the first time since the pandemic began, spurring officials to call for more vigilance.

New coronavirus cases in Japan's capital hit a record on Thursday, surging past 30,000 for the first time since the pandemic began, spurring officials to call for more vigilance. Tokyo's 31,878 new infections far outstripped a previous high in February, and many other regions also reported highs. Thursday's national tally of 186,229 new infections was a record. Despite few serious cases and deaths, officials warned hospitals were starting to feel the pressure from rising numbers. "We need to keep a close eye on the infection situation, including the issue of access to medical services, with the highest vigilance," Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a regular news conference. New COVID-19 infections nationwide were at their highest ever, he added. Despite the surge, officials, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, have not called for new coronavirus curbs. Nearly all Japanese still wear masks indoors, and many use them outside as well, while most stores require them. Tokyo residents said the surge was worrying. "I think it's really shocking that it's more than 30,000," said Ai Okamura, a 30-year-old office worker. "Because I live with my grandmother, it makes me feel much more cautious." Others said they felt people had relaxed their vigilance in recent months as infections fell. "Maybe since spring, everyone has calmed down and gone back to normal," said systems engineer Shimichi Koyama, aged 55. "So it was predictable to a certain extent," he said, referring to the new surge. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Tokyo's daily COVID cases cross 30,000 for first time in pandemic

The World Athletics Council on Thursday selected Tokyo, Japan, to host the 2025 World Athletics Championships. At the World Athletics Council Meeting in Oregon, USA, the Council also announced that the 2024 World Athletics Cross Country Championships will be held in Medulin and Pula in Croatia and the 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships will be held in Tallahassee, Florida.

The 2025 World Athletics Championships will see the sport`s biggest stars return to Tokyo`s Olympic Stadium, venue for last year`s Olympic Games, in the year that the Japanese Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) celebrates its centenary year. In 2025, Tokyo will have the opportunity to fill its Olympic stadium with fans who were denied the opportunity to attend the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games due to pandemic restrictions.

The other candidates for the event were Nairobi, Silesia and Singapore, all of which were deemed strong enough and experienced enough to host the event. Tokyo scored the highest of the four candidates in the bid evaluation across the four focused areas: the potential for a powerful narrative; revenue-generating opportunities for World Athletics; a destination that will enhance the international profile of the sport; and an appropriate climate. As one of the largest athletics stadiums in the world, the main stadium facilities in Tokyo are best in class and likely to present the best opportunity for athlete success at the 2025 World Athletics Championships.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/skating-russia-china-left-out-from-2022-23-grand-prix-calendar-497400">Skating: Russia, China left out from 2022-23 Grand Prix calendar</a>

World Athletics President Sebastian Coe thanked all the cities that took the time and effort to prepare bids, showing their commitment to athletics. He reinforced the Council`s wish that all of them continue to discuss future opportunities to host World Athletics events. "Within an extremely strong field of candidates to host the World Athletics Championships 2025, Tokyo offered a compelling bid," Coe said."I hope this will be a shining light for Japan as they celebrate 100 years of the Japanese Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) in 2025, by bringing world-class athletics back to the people in Tokyo," he added.JAAF President

Mitsugi Ogata said: "We are immensely proud that World Athletics has demonstrated its confidence and trust in Japan to host the 2025 World Athletics Championships. Together with World Athletics as one team, we will capitalise on this opportunity to showcase the best possible global event for growing our sport to a higher level. "History has shown that we have the ability and energy to host the world`s top athletes and to inspire international audiences. We promise that the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo will be full of fans to become an unforgettable experience for the athletes and everyone involved," Ogata said.

The 18th edition of the World Athletics Championships begins in Oregon on Friday (15), while Budapest in Hungary will host the 2023 event.

The World Athletics Council on Thursday selected Tokyo, Japan, to host the 2025 World Athletics Championships. At the World Athletics Council Meeting in Oregon, USA, the Council also announced that the 2024 World Athletics Cross Country Championships will be held in Medulin and Pula in Croatia and the 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships will be held in Tallahassee, Florida.

The World Athletics Council on Thursday selected Tokyo, Japan, to host the 2025 World Athletics Championships. At the World Athletics Council Meeting in Oregon, USA, the Council also announced that the 2024 World Athletics Cross Country Championships will be held in Medulin and Pula in Croatia and the 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships will be held in Tallahassee, Florida. The 2025 World Athletics Championships will see the sport`s biggest stars return to Tokyo`s Olympic Stadium, venue for last year`s Olympic Games, in the year that the Japanese Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) celebrates its centenary year. In 2025, Tokyo will have the opportunity to fill its Olympic stadium with fans who were denied the opportunity to attend the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games due to pandemic restrictions. The other candidates for the event were Nairobi, Silesia and Singapore, all of which were deemed strong enough and experienced enough to host the event. Tokyo scored the highest of the four candidates in the bid evaluation across the four focused areas: the potential for a powerful narrative; revenue-generating opportunities for World Athletics; a destination that will enhance the international profile of the sport; and an appropriate climate. As one of the largest athletics stadiums in the world, the main stadium facilities in Tokyo are best in class and likely to present the best opportunity for athlete success at the 2025 World Athletics Championships. ALSO READ | Skating: Russia, China left out from 2022-23 Grand Prix calendar World Athletics President Sebastian Coe thanked all the cities that took the time and effort to prepare bids, showing their commitment to athletics. He reinforced the Council`s wish that all of them continue to discuss future opportunities to host World Athletics events. "Within an extremely strong field of candidates to host the World Athletics Championships 2025, Tokyo offered a compelling bid," Coe said."I hope this will be a shining light for Japan as they celebrate 100 years of the Japanese Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) in 2025, by bringing world-class athletics back to the people in Tokyo," he added.JAAF President Mitsugi Ogata said: "We are immensely proud that World Athletics has demonstrated its confidence and trust in Japan to host the 2025 World Athletics Championships. Together with World Athletics as one team, we will capitalise on this opportunity to showcase the best possible global event for growing our sport to a higher level. "History has shown that we have the ability and energy to host the world`s top athletes and to inspire international audiences. We promise that the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo will be full of fans to become an unforgettable experience for the athletes and everyone involved," Ogata said. The 18th edition of the World Athletics Championships begins in Oregon on Friday (15), while Budapest in Hungary will host the 2023 event.

World Athletics Championships to be held in Tokyo in 2025

Amid the ongoing heatwave in Japan, thousands of visitors flocked to Yomiuri Land amusement park. Temperatures have risen above 35 degrees Celsius in Tokyo.

Why are people flocking to this waterpark in Tokyo?

In a huge surprise win, a Japanese woman, who has been living in Belgium, has been selected as a mayor of a district in Tokyo after the elections. The 47-year-old woman, who is known as Satoko Kishimoto, became popular with the help of her online campaign. For a decade, Kishimoto has been living in Leuven city of Belgium along with her husband and children. She has been working as a project coordinator for the not-for-profit Transnational Institute in Amsterdam. Kishimoto has now become the mayor of Suginami city. This city encompasses 500,000 people and is more than 5,800 miles away from her present home. Kishimoto won by just 200 votes. &nbsp;

In recent weeks, Kishimoto has travelled to Japan for campaigning in person. Olivier Hoedeman, husband of Kishimoto, said that the result of the election has come as a “huge surprise”. &nbsp;

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“During the Covid crisis, when everything happened online, Satoko participated a lot in online public debates in Japan from Leuven. Satoko is very interested in politics and through her work for the Transnational Institute in Amsterdam, she knows a lot about it too. She became very popular with the progressive movement in Japan and was asked to run for mayor in Suginami,” Hoedeman told Flemish radio. &nbsp;

“Satoko lived the first 25 years of her life in Japan. After that, she moved to the Netherlands and then to Leuven, where we have lived together for more than 10 years and now have two children. The election result came as a huge surprise. Satoko defeated the conservative mayor in office. Apparently, her political message appealed to many citizens. Satoko wants less privatisation and more citizen participation,” Hoedeman added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hoedeman said, “Our youngest son is still in secondary school and still has a few years to go. So, moving to Japan is not going to be so easy. We still have to think about it.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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In a huge surprise win, a Japanese woman, who has been living in Belgium, has been selected as a mayor of a district in Tokyo after the elections. The 47-year-old woman, who is known as Satoko Kishimoto, became popular with the help of her online campaign.

In a huge surprise win, a Japanese woman, who has been living in Belgium, has been selected as a mayor of a district in Tokyo after the elections. The 47-year-old woman, who is known as Satoko Kishimoto, became popular with the help of her online campaign. For a decade, Kishimoto has been living in Leuven city of Belgium along with her husband and children. She has been working as a project coordinator for the not-for-profit Transnational Institute in Amsterdam. Kishimoto has now become the mayor of Suginami city. This city encompasses 500,000 people and is more than 5,800 miles away from her present home. Kishimoto won by just 200 votes. In recent weeks, Kishimoto has travelled to Japan for campaigning in person. Olivier Hoedeman, husband of Kishimoto, said that the result of the election has come as a “huge surprise”. WATCH WION LIVE HERE “During the Covid crisis, when everything happened online, Satoko participated a lot in online public debates in Japan from Leuven. Satoko is very interested in politics and through her work for the Transnational Institute in Amsterdam, she knows a lot about it too. She became very popular with the progressive movement in Japan and was asked to run for mayor in Suginami,” Hoedeman told Flemish radio. “Satoko lived the first 25 years of her life in Japan. After that, she moved to the Netherlands and then to Leuven, where we have lived together for more than 10 years and now have two children. The election result came as a huge surprise. Satoko defeated the conservative mayor in office. Apparently, her political message appealed to many citizens. Satoko wants less privatisation and more citizen participation,” Hoedeman added. Hoedeman said, “Our youngest son is still in secondary school and still has a few years to go. So, moving to Japan is not going to be so easy. We still have to think about it.” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Surprise win: Japanese woman living in Belgium becomes mayor of district in Tokyo

Do you know Tokyo has an underground tunnel to catch flood water? It was constructed 3 decades back to save the city from drowning. WION's Managing Editor Palki Sharma visited the facility to see how it works. Here's a ground report.

Gravitas: This underground tunnel protects Tokyo from floods

It was a day of diplomacy, dialogue meetings and bilaterals in Tokyo where the highlight was the Quad leaders' summit. The second such in-person meeting between the leaders of the Quad the first bilateral held right after the summit was between the leaders of the US and India.

QUAD leaders bat for free Indo-Pacific, vow 'tangible-benefits' to counter China

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was among the founders of the QUAD grouping. As the leaders of the QUAD nations assembled in Tokyo for the fourth summit, WION's Managing Editor Palki Sharma spoke to former Japan's former PM Shinzo Abe.

WION Exclusive: Japan's longest serving PM Shinzo Abe speaks on QUAD Leaders' Summit

Indian PM Narendra Modi arrived in Japan and has a busy schedule of 40 hours, 23 engagements and a high stakes QUAD summit. WION's managing editor, Palki Sharma brings you more on this

QUAD Summit 2022: Indian PM Narendra Modi meets business leaders in Tokyo

The second in-person QUAD summit is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (May 24) as leaders of Japan, India, Australia and the US will meet in Tokyo to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss global issues. Head of ORF Strategic Studies program, Harsh V Pant speaks to WION about his expectation from the QUAD summit and outlined its significance at a time like this

Head of ORF Strategic Studies program, Harsh V Pant speaks to WION on QUAD Summit

Australia's new Prime Minister Anthony Albanese rushed through a swearing-in ceremony to take off for Tokyo. But it remains unclear whether PM Albanese will form a majority or get the support of cross benches

Australia's new PM takes off to Tokyo to attend Quad Summit 2022

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Japan for the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue ahead of the QUAD summit on Tuesday.

QUAD Summit 2022: Indian PM Modi arrives in Japan, will attend diplomatic and community interactions

Ahead of the third edition of Quad summit in Japan, where leaders of India, the US, Japan and Australia are set to meet with their aim of securing the Indo-Pacific region, India’s Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra briefed reporters in New Delhi on what can be expected from the much-anticipated meet.

The Indian official informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Japan on May 23 and 24 to participate in the Quad summit. He is expected will hold bilateral talks with his counterparts from the US, Australia, and Japan.

Apart from that, Modi will also address the Indian community event and meet with Japanese business leaders.

Here are some of the important developments.

1) Quad will also organize a special session on promoting vaccine confidence. The Quad vaccine partnership was announced in March last year with an aim to deliver one billion doses of vaccines to the Indo-Pacific region by the end of 2022.

2) Quad will hold a special session on the sidelines of the World Health Organisation's world health assembly next week.

3) The upcoming summit in Tokyo would provide the leaders with an opportunity to step up for Quad initiatives, said the Indian foreign secretary.

4) When asked whether Quad will be expanded, Kwatra said, “Right now I don't think there is any conversation going on over further expansion of Quad.”

5) He said the talks will focus on continuing cooperation on Covid response and health infrastructure.

6) PM Modi will meet Japanese PM Kishida and discuss on deepening bilateral economic cooperation including trade and investment, clean energy, and cooperation in northeast India.

7) Apart from Japanese PM Kishida, Modi is also expected to have bilateral meetings with US President Biden on May 24 and the new Australian PM.

8) Indo-Pacific has challenges and opportunities. When Quad leaders speak, both challenges and opportunities will be talked about, foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra said regarding talks on China in Quad meeting.

Watch |&nbsp;'Quad working on constructive agenda', says Indian Foreign Secy on Indian PM Modi's visit to Japan

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Ahead of the third edition of Quad summit in Japan, where leaders of India, the US, Japan and Australia are set to meet with their aim of securing the Indo-Pacific region, India’s Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra briefed reporters in New Delhi on what can be expected from the much-anticipated meet.

Ahead of the third edition of Quad summit in Japan, where leaders of India, the US, Japan and Australia are set to meet with their aim of securing the Indo-Pacific region, India’s Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra briefed reporters in New Delhi on what can be expected from the much-anticipated meet. The Indian official informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Japan on May 23 and 24 to participate in the Quad summit. He is expected will hold bilateral talks with his counterparts from the US, Australia, and Japan. Apart from that, Modi will also address the Indian community event and meet with Japanese business leaders. Here are some of the important developments. 1) Quad will also organize a special session on promoting vaccine confidence. The Quad vaccine partnership was announced in March last year with an aim to deliver one billion doses of vaccines to the Indo-Pacific region by the end of 2022. 2) Quad will hold a special session on the sidelines of the World Health Organisation's world health assembly next week. 3) The upcoming summit in Tokyo would provide the leaders with an opportunity to step up for Quad initiatives, said the Indian foreign secretary. 4) When asked whether Quad will be expanded, Kwatra said, “Right now I don't think there is any conversation going on over further expansion of Quad.” 5) He said the talks will focus on continuing cooperation on Covid response and health infrastructure. 6) PM Modi will meet Japanese PM Kishida and discuss on deepening bilateral economic cooperation including trade and investment, clean energy, and cooperation in northeast India. 7) Apart from Japanese PM Kishida, Modi is also expected to have bilateral meetings with US President Biden on May 24 and the new Australian PM. 8) Indo-Pacific has challenges and opportunities. When Quad leaders speak, both challenges and opportunities will be talked about, foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra said regarding talks on China in Quad meeting. Watch | 'Quad working on constructive agenda', says Indian Foreign Secy on Indian PM Modi's visit to Japan

Third edition of Quad Summit: Here’s all that can be expected from the Tokyo event

Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced on Thursday (May 19) that the embargo on palm oil exports will be lifted in the coming week, bringing relief to global markets where prices of edible prices have soared due to trade disruptions, the Ukraine conflict and global warming

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-announces-to-lift-palm-oil-exports-ban-from-monday-480421">Indonesia announces to lift palm oil exports ban from Monday</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263536-oil.jpg" />

Indonesia, the world's top palm oil producer, had stopped the exports of crude palm oil (CPO) and some derivative products since April 28 in a bid to tame soaring prices of domestic cooking oil.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-girls-school-education-linked-to-hijab-taliban-promises-good-news-soon-480424">Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon</a>

&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263538-untitled-design-1.jpg" />Since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the group has made numerous promises regarding women's rights in the country. However the group has failed to keep its promises, instead, the group has issued diktats curbing the rights of Afghan women and girls.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-warns-of-political-attacks-on-him-and-plans-to-vote-republican-480427" hreflang="en">Elon Musk warns of political attacks on him and plans to ‘vote Republican’</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/04/29/258231-elon-musk-tesla.jpg" />

Elon Musk, the tech billionaire, said today that he will now vote Republican, intensifying his attacks on Democrats in new tweets. He went on to say that he used to support and vote for Democrats because they were "primarily the compassion party," but that they had now turned into a party of "division and hate."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/expensive-coffee-customer-at-italy-coffee-bar-calls-police-over-price-of-espresso-480334">Expensive coffee: Customer at Italy coffee bar calls police over price of espresso</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/03/26/250246-coffee.jpg" />

After an upset client complained to the police over the price of a hot drink, a Florence coffee shop was fined $1,048. On Monday, the Florence coffee shop Ditta Artigianale was fined for failing to publish the price of a cup of coffee on its counter. One client had complained to the police about the $2.01 price of a decaffeinated cup of coffee.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-oceans-at-most-acidic-level-in-26000-years-climate-report-warns-480375">World’s oceans at most acidic level in 26,000 years, climate report warns</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263502-untitled-design-26.jpg" />

The world's&nbsp;oceans&nbsp;grew to their warmest and&nbsp;most&nbsp;acidic&nbsp;levels on record last year, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Wednesday, as United Nations officials warned that war in Ukraine threatened global&nbsp;climate&nbsp;commitments.

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263556-pm.jpeg" />

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has decided to change his official date of birth to the date he was actually born in order to closely align with the Chinese zodiac calendar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-prez-george-bush-condemns-iraq-invasion-instead-of-ukrainian-war-in-major-gaffe-480402">Watch: Ex-US prez George Bush condemns Iraq invasion instead of Ukrainian war in major gaffe</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263518-bush.jpg" />

Former US president George W Bush made a major slip-up when he condemned the “brutal” and “unjustified” invasion of Iraq instead of referring to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jake-daniels-becomes-uks-1st-active-male-professional-footballer-to-admit-being-gay-reveals-inspiration-480355">Jake Daniels becomes UK's 1st active gay male professional footballer; reveals 'inspiration'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263484-daniels-becomes-uks-1st-active-male-professional-fballer-to-admit-being-gay.jpg" />Young English soccer player Jake Daniels came out in the open of being gay earlier this week. Thus, he became the first male active professional football player&nbsp;(since 1990 when Justin Fashanu revealed the same) who openly revealed&nbsp;his sexuality, i.e. being gay.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pope-francis-says-he-needs-a-shot-of-tequila-for-his-knee-pain-480395">Watch: Pope Francis says he needs a shot of tequila for his knee pain</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/01/230785-pope-francis.jpg" />Pope Francis has been suffering from severe knee discomfort, prompting his medical experts to recommend a wheelchair, cane, and physical therapy to aid his recovery. However, it appears that the Pope has a different plan in mind.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ed-files-money-laundering-case-against-shilpa-shettys-husband-raj-kundra-480373">Raj Kundra porn case: ED files money laundering charge against Shilpa Shetty's husband</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/49404-Raj1.jpg" />The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered a money laundering case against businessman Raj Kundra in connection with the production and circulation of pornography films. Kundra is married to Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty.&nbsp;

 
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Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced on Thursday (May 19) that the embargo on palm oil exports will be lifted in the coming week, bringing relief to global markets where prices of edible prices have soared due to trade disruptions, the Ukraine conflict and global warming Click on the headlines to read more: Indonesia announces to lift palm oil exports ban from Monday Indonesia, the world's top palm oil producer, had stopped the exports of crude palm oil (CPO) and some derivative products since April 28 in a bid to tame soaring prices of domestic cooking oil.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced on Thursday (May 19) that the embargo on palm oil exports will be lifted in the coming week, bringing relief to global markets where prices of edible prices have soared due to trade disruptions, the Ukraine conflict and global warming Click on the headlines to read more: Indonesia announces to lift palm oil exports ban from Monday Indonesia, the world's top palm oil producer, had stopped the exports of crude palm oil (CPO) and some derivative products since April 28 in a bid to tame soaring prices of domestic cooking oil. Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon Since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the group has made numerous promises regarding women's rights in the country. However the group has failed to keep its promises, instead, the group has issued diktats curbing the rights of Afghan women and girls. Elon Musk warns of political attacks on him and plans to ‘vote Republican’ Elon Musk, the tech billionaire, said today that he will now vote Republican, intensifying his attacks on Democrats in new tweets. He went on to say that he used to support and vote for Democrats because they were "primarily the compassion party," but that they had now turned into a party of "division and hate." Expensive coffee: Customer at Italy coffee bar calls police over price of espresso After an upset client complained to the police over the price of a hot drink, a Florence coffee shop was fined $1,048. On Monday, the Florence coffee shop Ditta Artigianale was fined for failing to publish the price of a cup of coffee on its counter. One client had complained to the police about the $2.01 price of a decaffeinated cup of coffee. World’s oceans at most acidic level in 26,000 years, climate report warns The world's oceans grew to their warmest and most acidic levels on record last year, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Wednesday, as United Nations officials warned that war in Ukraine threatened global climate commitments. Superstitious Cambodian PM changes his birth date to avert bad luck Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has decided to change his official date of birth to the date he was actually born in order to closely align with the Chinese zodiac calendar. Watch: Ex-US prez George Bush condemns Iraq invasion instead of Ukrainian war in major gaffe Former US president George W Bush made a major slip-up when he condemned the “brutal” and “unjustified” invasion of Iraq instead of referring to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Jake Daniels becomes UK's 1st active gay male professional footballer; reveals 'inspiration' Young English soccer player Jake Daniels came out in the open of being gay earlier this week. Thus, he became the first male active professional football player (since 1990 when Justin Fashanu revealed the same) who openly revealed his sexuality, i.e. being gay. Watch: Pope Francis says he needs a shot of tequila for his knee pain Pope Francis has been suffering from severe knee discomfort, prompting his medical experts to recommend a wheelchair, cane, and physical therapy to aid his recovery. However, it appears that the Pope has a different plan in mind. Raj Kundra porn case: ED files money laundering charge against Shilpa Shetty's husband The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered a money laundering case against businessman Raj Kundra in connection with the production and circulation of pornography films. Kundra is married to Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty.

Top 10 world news: Indonesia lifts palm oil export ban, UK's 1st active gay footballer and more

A medical school in Tokyo has been ordered to pay compensation to thirteen women for gender-based discrimination.

The medical school reportedly made it harder for females to pass the entrance tests so as to "narrow the gap with male students".

Watch |&nbsp;China ease Covid rules for international travellers

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According to an AFP report quoting a Tokyo district court official, Juntendo&nbsp;University has been ordered to compensate the claimants. According to local media, the total compensation was approximately eight million yen ($62,000). The university did not respond to requests for comment.

Juntendo in 2018 raised the bar for women in the entrance exam so as to bring them on par with male students. As per AFP, the institution took this step after a scandal over medical school admissions uncovered improper practices at many of the institutions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/superstitious-cambodian-pm-changes-his-birth-date-to-avert-bad-luck-480443" hreflang="en">Superstitious Cambodian PM changes his birth date to avert bad luck</a>

Back then, the institution claimed that women had superior communication abilities and hence had an advantage in the interview portion of their applications.

Four years ago, a government investigation was launched after it was found that another school, Tokyo Medical University admitted to lowering scores of female applicants. This was apparently done so as to keep women's numbers in the student body below 30 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-communist-party-failed-to-change-tibetan-mind-dalai-lama-tells-us-govt-official-480357" hreflang="en">Chinese communist party failed to change Tibetan mind, Dalai Lama tells US govt official</a>

The government report found that female applicants face discrimination in four of the 81 schools investigated. The media reported at the time that admission staff believed that women would leave medicine or work less after they married and had children.

Several lawsuits were filed against the colleges after the report was published in 2018. St. Marianna University of Medicine refuted the charges, whereas Tokyo Medical School, Juntendo University, and Kitasato University accepted the problem and apologised.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A medical school in Tokyo has been ordered to pay compensation to thirteen women for gender-based discrimination. The medical school reportedly made it harder for females to pass the entrance tests so as to "narrow the gap with male students".

A medical school in Tokyo has been ordered to pay compensation to thirteen women for gender-based discrimination. The medical school reportedly made it harder for females to pass the entrance tests so as to "narrow the gap with male students". Watch | China ease Covid rules for international travellers According to an AFP report quoting a Tokyo district court official, Juntendo University has been ordered to compensate the claimants. According to local media, the total compensation was approximately eight million yen ($62,000). The university did not respond to requests for comment. Juntendo in 2018 raised the bar for women in the entrance exam so as to bring them on par with male students. As per AFP, the institution took this step after a scandal over medical school admissions uncovered improper practices at many of the institutions. Also read | Superstitious Cambodian PM changes his birth date to avert bad luck Back then, the institution claimed that women had superior communication abilities and hence had an advantage in the interview portion of their applications. Four years ago, a government investigation was launched after it was found that another school, Tokyo Medical University admitted to lowering scores of female applicants. This was apparently done so as to keep women's numbers in the student body below 30 per cent. Also read | Chinese communist party failed to change Tibetan mind, Dalai Lama tells US govt official The government report found that female applicants face discrimination in four of the 81 schools investigated. The media reported at the time that admission staff believed that women would leave medicine or work less after they married and had children. Several lawsuits were filed against the colleges after the report was published in 2018. St. Marianna University of Medicine refuted the charges, whereas Tokyo Medical School, Juntendo University, and Kitasato University accepted the problem and apologised. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tokyo medical school to pay $62,000 compensation for discrimination against female candidates

US President Joe Biden will be meeting the Quad leaders in Tokyo after travelling to South Korea and Japan for a bilateral visit, the White House in a statement said.

Biden's trip to South Korea and Japan has been scheduled From May 20 to 24, following which he will be meeting other Quad leaders.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Tokyo on May 24 for the Quad visit after concluding his trip to Europe, where he will be meeting the leaders of Germany, Denmark and France from May 2 to May 4.

“This trip will advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s rock-solid commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and to US treaty alliances with the Republic of Korea and Japan,” White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said.

“It will build on more than a year of intensive diplomacy with the Indo-Pacific, including the U.S.-ASEAN Special Summit on May 12-13 in Washington, DC,” she added.

Biden will also hold bilateral meetings with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-russia-ties-grew-out-of-necessity-as-us-couldnt-do-it-earlier-antony-blinken-474485">&nbsp;India-Russia ties grew out of necessity as US couldn’t do it earlier: Antony Blinken</a>

"The leaders will discuss opportunities to deepen our vital security relationships, enhance economic ties and expand our close cooperation to deliver practical results,” she said.

Quad or 'Quadrilateral Security Dialogue' is an informal strategic four that comprises four nations - India, United States, Australia and Japan. One of the main objectives of Quad is to work for a free, open, prosperous and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-22-dialogue-a-momentous-moment-in-global-affairs-470362">India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs</a>

&nbsp;It is also basically seen as a strategic grouping to reduce Chinese domination.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden will be meeting the Quad leaders in Tokyo after travelling to South Korea and Japan for a bilateral visit, the White House in a statement said.

US President Joe Biden will be meeting the Quad leaders in Tokyo after travelling to South Korea and Japan for a bilateral visit, the White House in a statement said. Biden's trip to South Korea and Japan has been scheduled From May 20 to 24, following which he will be meeting other Quad leaders. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Tokyo on May 24 for the Quad visit after concluding his trip to Europe, where he will be meeting the leaders of Germany, Denmark and France from May 2 to May 4. “This trip will advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s rock-solid commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and to US treaty alliances with the Republic of Korea and Japan,” White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said. “It will build on more than a year of intensive diplomacy with the Indo-Pacific, including the U.S.-ASEAN Special Summit on May 12-13 in Washington, DC,” she added. Biden will also hold bilateral meetings with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio. Also read | India-Russia ties grew out of necessity as US couldn’t do it earlier: Antony Blinken "The leaders will discuss opportunities to deepen our vital security relationships, enhance economic ties and expand our close cooperation to deliver practical results,” she said. Quad or 'Quadrilateral Security Dialogue' is an informal strategic four that comprises four nations - India, United States, Australia and Japan. One of the main objectives of Quad is to work for a free, open, prosperous and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. Also read | India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs It is also basically seen as a strategic grouping to reduce Chinese domination. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US President Joe Biden to meet Indian PM Modi, other Quad leaders in Tokyo in May

Tokyo's historic Nakagin Capsule Tower to be demolished

Japanese schools have banned female students from wearing their hair in ponytails as they fear the “nape of their necks” could “sexually excite” male students.

“They’re worried boys will look at girls, which is similar to the reasoning behind upholding a white-only underwear color rule,” former middle school teacher Motoki Sugiyama told Vice World News.

“I’ve always criticised these rules, but because there’s such a lack of criticism and it’s become so normalised, students have no choice but to accept them.”

“Because if the two-block (undercut) is OK, then some students might start saying the mohawk should be OK,” Sugiyama explained.&nbsp;

“Many schools ignore notices that aren’t legally binding or that don’t have penalties,” he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-japanese-women-beat-men-in-medical-school-acceptance-rate-455425">Also read |&nbsp;In a first, Japanese women beat men in medical school acceptance rate</a>

Japan's schools have strict rules about hair colour, accessories, make-up and uniforms, including the length of skirts for girls.

Nearly half of Tokyo high schools ask students with hair that is wavy or not black to submit certificates confirming that their hair is not artificially altered, public broadcaster NHK has reported.

Of 177 high schools run by the Tokyo Metropolitan government, 79 ask for these certificates signed by parents.

Tokyo’s board of education told NHK that the hair certificates are not compulsory. But the broadcaster said only five of the 79 schools make it clear in writing that students aren’t required to submit them.

In June last year, outcry from students and parents over these rules prompted the Japanese government to ask all prefectural boards of education to revise draconian school rules.&nbsp;

The harsh regulations, known as buraku kōsoku or “black rules,” have roots dating back to the 1870s when the Japanese government first established increasingly restrictive system of education in an attempt to reduce bullying and violence in schools. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Japanese schools have banned female students from wearing their hair in ponytails as they fear the “nape of their necks” could “sexually excite” male students. “They’re worried boys will look at girls, which is similar to the reasoning behind upholding a white-only underwear color rule,” former middle school teacher Motoki Sugiyama told Vice World News.

Japanese schools have banned female students from wearing their hair in ponytails as they fear the “nape of their necks” could “sexually excite” male students. “They’re worried boys will look at girls, which is similar to the reasoning behind upholding a white-only underwear color rule,” former middle school teacher Motoki Sugiyama told Vice World News. “I’ve always criticised these rules, but because there’s such a lack of criticism and it’s become so normalised, students have no choice but to accept them.” “Because if the two-block (undercut) is OK, then some students might start saying the mohawk should be OK,” Sugiyama explained. “Many schools ignore notices that aren’t legally binding or that don’t have penalties,” he added. Also read | In a first, Japanese women beat men in medical school acceptance rate Japan's schools have strict rules about hair colour, accessories, make-up and uniforms, including the length of skirts for girls. Nearly half of Tokyo high schools ask students with hair that is wavy or not black to submit certificates confirming that their hair is not artificially altered, public broadcaster NHK has reported. Of 177 high schools run by the Tokyo Metropolitan government, 79 ask for these certificates signed by parents. Tokyo’s board of education told NHK that the hair certificates are not compulsory. But the broadcaster said only five of the 79 schools make it clear in writing that students aren’t required to submit them. In June last year, outcry from students and parents over these rules prompted the Japanese government to ask all prefectural boards of education to revise draconian school rules. The harsh regulations, known as buraku kōsoku or “black rules,” have roots dating back to the 1870s when the Japanese government first established increasingly restrictive system of education in an attempt to reduce bullying and violence in schools. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan: Schools have banned ponytails fearing they might ‘sexually excite’ men

In Pics | Tokyo hotel comes up with 'Lantern dining experience' to ensure safety amid a surge in cases

The Japanese capital Tokyo has reported more than 20,000 cases in a day denting the country's hope for riding out the Omicron surge. The is the highest number of daily infections ever since the start of the pandemic.

Japan: More than 20,000 daily covid-19 cases reported in Tokyo

The Japanese capital Tokyo is witnessing more than 10,000 new Coronavirus cases in a day. Ms. Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo spoke to WION on the Covid-19 situation in Tokyo and the restrictions that are being considered to contain this sharp surge.

High tech Robots are being used to take care of Covid patients, says Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo

In a bid to contain the spike in COVID cases in the capital city of Japan which is now witnessing a record surge in daily cases the government has now started administering booster doses to the elderly citizens. Tokyo has recorded more than 11,000 COVID cases in the last 24 hours.

Japan: Govt starts administering booster shots to elderly citizens

In a shocking incident in Japan, at least three high school students were stabbed by a teenager. The incident happened right outside Tokyo's university premises, ahead of the nationwide college entrance exams.

Japan: 3 high school students & an elderly man stabbed by a teenager right outside Tokyo University

At least 3 high school students were stabbed by a teenager. The incident occured right outside Tokyo's university premises ahead of the nationwide college entrance exams. The attacker was apprehended afterwards.

Japan: At least 3 high school students stabbed by teenager in Tokyo

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