#takaichisanae — Public Fediverse posts

Japan Tightens Guidelines for Granting Permanent Residency, To Take Effect in April 2027

In its latest move on reforming immigration, Japan has officially revised its guidelines for granting permanent residency to foreign nationals and these will take effect in April 2027, according to a news report by Kyodo News. Guidelines include Japanese language-proficiency and having an above-average income compared with Japanese households.

To learn about the events that preceded the new residency fees, click here, here and here.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Kyodo News report. Some parts in boldface…

Japan’s immigration agency on Thursday revised its guidelines for granting permanent residency to foreign nationals, requiring applicants to have an income above the average for Japanese households and demonstrating a certain level of projected pension benefits.

The revised guidelines, which are set to take effect in April 2027, also require applicants to demonstrate Japanese-language proficiency at the level of an “independent user.”

The income requirement will be applied retroactively to applications made from April 2026 onward, as the immigration authorities aim to ensure that foreign applicants are financially independent. The average annual income per household was around 5.75 million yen ($36,500) in 2024.

The government of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has been seeking to tighten regulations on the acceptance of foreign nationals. Fees for residence status applications were also hiked sharply on Thursday.

Applicants will also be required to have projected pension benefits equivalent to those payable after 30 years of enrollment in the employees’ pension program at their income level at the time they apply.

In principle, applicants must have lived in Japan for more than 10 years to qualify for permanent residency.

Previously, spouses of Japanese nationals or permanent residents could obtain permanent residency if they had been married for at least three years and had resided in Japan for at least one year.

However, the revised guidelines raise those thresholds to five years of marriage and three years of residence.

The Immigration Services Agency received around 5,000 public comments since it unveiled the draft guidelines in August.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Are you convinced that the Japanese government is executing the right moves with the revised guidelines? Do you think this latest immigration reform by Japan could inspire other nations to follow suit? What do you think could be the reasons why foreigners want to live permanently in Japan without following their rules, without paying their bills and without learning the Japanese language?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Takaichi’s Delhi Visit Highlights Deepening Japan-India Economic Ties

India continues to experience economic growth surpassing even China’s. Amid a turbulent international landscape, both the public and…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #India #indo-pacific #Japanese #TakaichiSanae
https://www.europesays.com/japan/101568/

Takaichi’s Delhi Visit Highlights Deepening Japan-India Economic Ties

India continues to experience economic growth surpassing even China’s. Amid a turbulent international landscape, both the public and…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #India #indo-pacific #TakaichiSanae
https://www.europesays.com/japan/101472/

https://www.europesays.com/3290215/ Takaichi’s Delhi Visit Highlights Deepening Japan-India Economic Ties #India #IndoPacific #japan #TakaichiSanae

https://www.europesays.com/3290215/ Takaichi’s Delhi Visit Highlights Deepening Japan-India Economic Ties #India #IndoPacific #japan #TakaichiSanae

https://www.europesays.com/unitedstates/12701/ Rethinking Japan’s National Defense: Takaichi Tackles the Three Security Documents #AsiaPacific #Defense #LDP #security #TakaichiSanae

Higher Residency Fees for Foreign Nationals in Japan in Effect

What Japan promised as a part of immigration reform has finally been executed yesterday. The fees for foreign nationals seeking a change or a renewal of their residency status in Japan has been hiked dramatically to 200,000 Yen (US$1,280), according to a news report by Kyodo News. In relation with this development, there were long lines of foreign nationals who applied at regional immigration service centers hoping to beat the scheduled hike of residency fees.

To learn about the events that preceded the new residency fees, click here, here and here.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Kyodo News report. Some parts in boldface…

Japan on Thursday hiked fees for foreign nationals seeking to change or renew their residency status, with the cost of permanent residency jumping twentyfold to 200,000 yen ($1,280).

The increase triggered a last-minute rush to apply under the old rates earlier this week, with long lines forming at immigration offices and heavy traffic making it difficult for some people to use the government’s online application system.

At the Osaka Regional Immigration Services Bureau on Tuesday, about 350 people were waiting when the office opened at 9 a.m., with the line stretching outside the building.

Before the hikes, the fees for non-permanent residency applications were 6,000 yen to change residency status or extending the period of stay. The fee for permanent residency was 10,000 yen.

From Thursday, the fee varies according to the period of stay granted, starting at 10,000 yen for three months or less and rising to 75,000 yen for five years or more.

The change comes following a revision to Japan’s immigration and refugee law enacted in May, with the government citing rising costs for visa screening.

For some foreign residents trying to continue working and living in Japan, including asylum seekers who fled hardship at home, the higher fees are adding to their financial burden.

A man in his 30s from East Africa, who came to Japan in 2023, said he is seeking refugee status for political reasons. He is currently unemployed after his seasonal job ended, adding that finding work has been difficult as many Japanese companies are reluctant to hire asylum seekers.

He currently holds a six-month “designated activities” residency status, meaning his renewal fee will rise to 18,000 yen under the new system.

“I like Japan,” he said, adding that he intends to pay the fees required to remain in the country. But he said policymakers should listen more closely to people directly affected by immigration rules.

An Indonesian man, 35, who went to the Osaka immigration office to apply for permanent residency before the increase took effect, said the twentyfold rise had come as a shock.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Now that higher residency fees are already in effect, do you anticipate a huge back backlash by foreign residents and their respective national governments against Japan? Do you think the woke mob and open borders zealots around the world will criticize Japan and pressure them to reverse all the immigration reforms they executed? Do you think the hiked fees will somehow compel illegal aliens and illegal immigrants to surrender to the local authorities and leave Japan?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan to Boost Cooperation to Crackdown Against Illegal Foreign Workers

Japan will intensify its crackdown against illegal foreign workers by boosting cooperation with the other divisions of the government very soon, according to a news report by Jiji Press. While the intention to solve the problems connected with illegal foreign workers is clear, the government of Japan still has varied obstacles that needs to be cleared in order to launch an effective crackdown.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the entire Jiji Press news report. Some parts in boldface…

Japan’s Immigration Services Agency will boost cooperation with other government divisions to crack down on illegal foreign workers.

Starting as early as October, agency officials will join land ministry inspections of demolition and construction sites.

The land ministry conducts regular patrols of demolition and construction sites. However, its construction-related officials do not have the authority to verify the identities of foreign nationals, even when they are suspected of working illegally.

To address this issue, the Immigration Services Agency will send immigration control officers to participate in these patrols, as these officers have the authority to ask foreign residents to show their residence cards, which they are required to carry under the immigration control and refugee recognition law.

The agency also plans to collaborate with the Environment Ministry, which oversees outdoor storage yards for waste plastics and scrap metal.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? If you have been living in Japan, did you notice any illegal acts committed by foreign residents over the past three months? Are you aware of the illegal mosque built in Japan by Pakistani nationals who defied the local authorities? Why do you think foreigners from Third World nations tend to behave negatively while living in Japan? Do you think Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae and her government can achieve comprehensive immigration reform within the next few years?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Prime Minister Takaichi Spotlights Strong Ties with Trump During Meeting

As planned, Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae met with US President Donald Trump in New York to emphasize the strong bilateral relations before the arrival of China’s president, according to a news report by Kyodo News. Together they discussed several key issues such as the security environment in Asia, Japan’s industry, and more.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt of the Kyodo News report. Some parts in boldface…

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met with U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday to demonstrate the strength of bilateral relations, just a day before Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrives in Washington for his first state visit in 11 years.

During a meeting in New York, Takaichi and Trump discussed “various issues concerning China, including economic security” and agreed to further strengthen the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. alliance, the Japanese government said.

Takaichi told Trump that the security environment in Asia and elsewhere is becoming increasingly severe, and that she wanted to show the world “how robust our alliance is through holding another round of meetings.”

Takaichi’s roughly 35-minute meeting with Trump, held on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, was intended to coordinate on China and align policies in areas of mutual interest, according to Japanese officials.

“Thanks to Donald’s leadership and also my own leadership, our bilateral economic security cooperation in areas such as AI, semiconductors and critical minerals has been steadily advancing,” Takaichi also said in front of the press ahead of their closed-door discussions.

Trump also praised his counterpart, saying, “She’s done a great job” and that he has been keeping a close eye on her high approval ratings.

“The industry in Japan is doing very well. The country is doing very well. It’s a very big improvement, and it’s an honor to be with her,” Trump said.

“She’s a friend of mine. We got to know each other very well over the last period of time,” he said of Japan’s first female premier, who took office nearly a year ago. “She’s going to be a great prime minister.”

The meeting was their first since March, when she visited the U.S. capital. They spoke for about five minutes on the margins of a Group of Seven summit in June in France.

Japan and China have been in a diplomatic freeze since Takaichi suggested in November that an attack on Taiwan could constitute an existential threat to her country and warrant a response from its armed forces.

Infuriated by her statement, China, which views Taiwan as part of its territory, has since unleashed a series of political and economic reprisals against Japan, including export restrictions on rare earths needed to manufacture various high-tech products.

China has shown no sign of easing tensions with Japan, with Beijing prioritizing a managed detente with Washington. The Trump administration is concerned about the knock-on impact of the restrictions on U.S. supply chains.

With trade and artificial intelligence likely to top the agenda at the Trump-Xi summit at the White House on Thursday, the officials had said Takaichi would likely use the meeting with Trump to discuss China’s export controls and Tokyo’s willingness to boost cooperation on emerging technologies with Washington.

During their talks, Takaichi and Trump also reaffirmed the two countries’ commitment to the complete denuclearization of North Korea and had a candid discussion of U.S. sanctions against International Criminal Court officials, according to the government.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the strong ties between the United States and Japan will eventually have a positive impact on international affairs, the security in Asia and other developments? Do you think the US-Japan alliance will push China back from locking in crucial supply chains and infrastructure projects of sovereign nations?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Takaichi advierte sobre crisis alimentaria ante fin de estabilidad global

La primer ministro de Japón, Takaichi Sanae, advirtió sobre una posible crisis alimentaria y el fin de la estabilidad posterior a la Guerra Fría; pidió fortalecer cadenas de suministro, reformar la ONU y avanzar hacia un mundo sin armas nucleares.

Por José Víctor Rodríguez | Reportero                                                        

La primer ministro de Japón, Takaichi Sanae, advirtió que la etapa de estabilidad internacional posterior a la Guerra Fría quedó atrás y alertó sobre el riesgo de una crisis alimentaria ante el aumento de las tensiones geopolíticas y las dificultades para mantener el libre comercio.

Durante su intervención, Takaichi señaló que Japón trabaja para reforzar la resiliencia de sus cadenas de suministro de energía y minerales críticos en Asia y otras regiones, después de que las crecientes tensiones internacionales afectaran las condiciones del comercio marítimo.

La primer ministro vinculó estos desafíos con la necesidad de fortalecer la cooperación internacional y la capacidad de respuesta de los países ante las nuevas condiciones de seguridad, comercio, energía y abastecimiento. La posición japonesa también contempla una mayor atención a la reducción del riesgo de desastres y a la acción climática.

Japón plantea reforzar cadenas de suministro

Japón ha dependido durante décadas del comercio marítimo en las rutas que conectan el océano Pacífico con el Índico. Ante el incremento de las tensiones, el gobierno japonés busca reducir vulnerabilidades en el suministro de energía y minerales considerados estratégicos.

Takaichi también planteó que la seguridad del Indo-Pacífico y del espacio euroatlántico están vinculadas, al tiempo que expresó preocupación por los programas nucleares y de misiles de la República Popular Democrática de Corea y por los secuestros de ciudadanos japoneses atribuidos a Pyongyang.

La postura japonesa incluye un llamado a fortalecer el régimen internacional establecido por el Tratado sobre la No Proliferación de las Armas Nucleares (TNP), así como a ampliar el conocimiento sobre las consecuencias de los bombardeos atómicos de Hiroshima y Nagasaki.

Japón sostiene que su experiencia como único país que sufrió ataques nucleares durante una guerra le confiere una responsabilidad particular en los esfuerzos internacionales para avanzar hacia la eliminación de las armas nucleares. En 2026, Tokio también reiteró su respaldo al TNP y al objetivo de un mundo sin armas nucleares.

Takaichi pide reformar Naciones Unidas

La primer ministro sostuvo que la Organización de las Naciones Unidas (ONU) debe ser reformada para responder a las condiciones actuales del sistema internacional. Consideró que la responsabilidad sobre las decisiones y contenidos de la organización corresponde a sus Estados miembros.

En ese contexto, planteó revisar la Carta de las Naciones Unidas, vigente desde 1945, y eliminar las llamadas cláusulas sobre “Estados enemigos”, disposiciones que permanecen en el documento aunque han dejado de corresponder con la estructura contemporánea de las relaciones internacionales.

Takaichi también propuso ampliar el número de integrantes permanentes y no permanentes del Consejo de Seguridad para que su composición refleje de mejor manera la realidad internacional actual.

La discusión sobre la reforma de Naciones Unidas se mantiene dentro de la agenda multilateral. La Asamblea General ha señalado la necesidad de fortalecer la cooperación internacional frente a desafíos globales, mientras el debate sobre la composición del Consejo de Seguridad continúa entre los Estados miembros.

Cambio climático y reducción de desastres

En materia de protección civil, Takaichi afirmó que Japón busca convertirse en una nación líder en la reducción del riesgo de desastres y mencionó el nombramiento de un ministro de Estado responsable de la cooperación internacional en esta materia.

La primer ministro también sostuvo que las políticas climáticas pueden avanzar junto con el crecimiento económico. Entre las áreas señaladas se encuentran el desarrollo de “acero verde” y la construcción de centros de datos con mayor eficiencia energética.

El planteamiento japonés coloca la resiliencia de infraestructura, la seguridad energética, la adaptación climática y la reducción del riesgo de desastres dentro de una misma agenda de preparación ante un escenario internacional más vulnerable. –sn–

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Japan Meets With Trump, Hoping to Get His Help on China

https://fed.brid.gy/r/https://www.nytimes.com/2026/09/21/world/asia/trump-takaichi-japan-china-economy.html

ICC President Akane Calls Her Organization the “Last Bastion of the Rule of Law”

Tomoko Akane, the incumbent president of the International Criminal Court, called her organization in The Hague the “last bastion of the rule of law” as she labeled America’s sanctions against her illegal and unacceptable, according to a news article by Jiji Press.

This past August, the United States sanctioned Akane and ICC trial lawyer Abdoul Seye of Senegal which is a part of their campaign to dismantle the organization’s threat to American sovereignty. Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae called the sanctions against Akane (a Japanese citizen) “very unfortunate”. It remains to be seen how the ICC sanctions will impact the current state of US-Japan relations and cooperation.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the entire Jiji Press news article. Some parts in boldface…

International Criminal Court President Tomoko Akane, under U.S. sanctions, on Sunday called The Hague-based organization the last bastion of the rule of law in the world.

Support from people around the world is necessary for the continuation of the ICC, she said in an event held by a nongovernmental organization in Tokyo.

Akane, who attended the event online, expressed her sincere gratitude for assistance from Japan, such as a signature campaign.

The U.S. sanctions are illegal and unacceptable, she said, calling them a move to suppress justice through external force.

Akane said she has been able to receive her salaries through a local bank while facing problems remitting money. Companies have rejected transactions with her due to the sanctions, she added.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you find Akane’s words about the American sanctions on her rather twisted given the fact that the ICC itself threatened American sovereignty and even interfered Philippine sovereignty and justice system? Are you convinced that Akane is simply pretending to be a victim? Do you want to see the ICC come to an end soon?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan’s Rice Crisis is Over, and the Price Drop’s Left Farmers in the Lurch

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://unseen-japan.com/japan-rice-prices-crash-farmers/

Większość Japończyków popiera decyzję Takaichi Sanae o rezygnacji z wizyty w Yasukuni

Takaichi zrezygnowała z najbardziej prowokacyjnego elementu, czyli osobistego pojawienia się urzędującego premiera, ale przez ofiary i wizyty ministrów zachowała symboliczny przekaz skierowany do konserwatywnego zaplecza.

https://wp.me/p3fv0T-iuv #Chiny #ChRL #Yasukuni #premier #wizyta #TakaichiSanae #Japonia #ROK #2WW #społeczeństwo

Russia Conducts Missile Test Off Japan-claimed Islands

It is clear that Russia is the newest regional problem for Japan. Not only have their ties been strained since 2022, tension intensified as Russia conducted a missile test off the group of islands claimed by Japan, according to a news report by Kyodo News. Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Etorofu Island (referred by the Russians as Iturup) which drew backlash from the Japanese.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

Russia’s Pacific Fleet said Thursday it has conducted a missile test off a group of Russian-held, Japanese-claimed islands amid an intensifying row over the disputed territory following President Vladimir Putin’s first-ever visit there last week.

While it was unclear exactly when the test was carried out, the announcement comes after the Russian Foreign Ministry summoned Japanese Ambassador to Russia Akira Muto over Japan’s protest against Putin’s trip to the area.

Putin visited Etorofu Island, the largest of the four islands collectively called the Northern Territories by Japan and the Southern Kurils by Russia, on Aug. 13.

The naval fleet said a unit equipped with the Bastion surface-to-ship missile system conducted the test. The system is deployed to Etorofu.

The guided missile cruiser Varyag, the flagship of the Pacific Fleet, also took part in the missile test along with the Omsk nuclear-powered submarine, the fleet said.

The test simulated an attack on enemy vessels and succeeded in hitting all the intended targets at a range of at least 300 kilometers, according to the fleet.

“We cannot tolerate moves (by Russia) to strengthen military power on the four northern islands because they go against our country’s stance (on the territories),” Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi told reporters Thursday during his visit to Oman.

A senior ministry official revealed Friday that Japan had lodged a protest with Russia shortly after Moscow notified Tokyo that it would conduct the missile exercise during the week beginning last Sunday.

Japan says the islands, which also include Kunashiri, Shikotan and the Habomai islet group, were illegally seized by the Soviet Union soon after Japan’s surrender in World War II on Aug. 15, 1945. Russia claims the action was legitimate, saying the islands became part of its territory as a result of the war.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think Russia’s military activity in the Pacific is the first sign of more disturbances that will affect Japan and possibly the rest of Asia? Do you anticipate China or North Korea will get involved in the Russia-Japan conflict at sea? Do you think the tension with Russia will negatively impact the economy of Japan?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

LDP’s Yasukuni Show of Force Tests Takaichi’s Balancing Act

When four of the Liberal Democratic Party’s top executives visited Yasukuni Shrine on August 15, the 81st anniversary…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #august15 #china #historicalmemory #history #Japanese #KoizumiShinjiro #LDP #politics&security #SouthKorea #TakaichiSanae #YasukuniShrine
https://www.europesays.com/japan/77963/

Putin’s Visit to Disputed Island Exacerbates Japan-Russia Tensions – The Diplomat

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Iturup Island (known in Japan as Etorofu) on August 13. It’s the largest…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #EastAsia #japanrussiadispute #Japan-Russiarelations #kurilislandsdispute #KurilIslandsNorthernTerritories #Nihon #PutinvisittoKurilIslands #Russia #Security #TakaichiSanae #VladimirPutin
https://www.europesays.com/japan/76951/

https://www.europesays.com/uk/1158044/ Putin’s Visit to Disputed Island Exacerbates Japan-Russia Tensions – The Diplomat #EastAsia #Japan #JapanRussiaDispute #JapanRussiaRelations #KurilIslandsDispute #KurilIslandsNorthernTerritories #PutinVisitToKurilIslands #Russia #Security #TakaichiSanae #VladimirPutin

https://www.europesays.com/people/194736/ Putin’s Visit to Disputed Island Exacerbates Japan-Russia Tensions – The Diplomat #EastAsia #Japan #JapanRussiaDispute #JapanRussiaRelations #KurilIslandsDispute #KurilIslandsNorthernTerritories #PutinVisitToKurilIslands #Russia #SECURITY #TakaichiSanae #VladimirPutin

Putin’s Visit to Disputed Island Exacerbates Japan-Russia Tensions – The Diplomat

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Iturup Island (known in Japan as Etorofu) on August 13. It’s the largest…
#EuropeSays #Russia #EastAsia #Japan #Japan-Russiadispute #Japan-Russiarelations #kurilislandsdispute #KurilIslandsNorthernTerritories #PutinvisittoKurilIslands #Security #TakaichiSanae #VladimirPutin
https://www.europesays.com/russia/53163/

America Sanctions ICC President and Trial Lawyer

Following the start of the campaign to dismantle the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) threat to national sovereignty, the United States Department of State announced it has sanctioned two ICC officials namely their president Tomoko Akane of Japan and trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye of Senegal. Already the Prime Minister of Japan described the sanctions on the ICC president as “very unfortunate.”

To put things in perspective, posted below is the entire statement of the US State Department by Secretary Marco Rubio. Some parts in boldface…

The Trump Administration has been clear: the International Criminal Court (ICC) is a corrupt and fatally politicized supranational court that has maliciously abused its authority and exceeded its mandate.  We will not tolerate its assault on state sovereignty. 

In furtherance of the diplomatic campaign we launched last month to address the ICC’s abuses of power, I am designating two ICC officials – President of the ICC, Tomoko Akane of Japan, and ICC Senior Trial Lawyer, Abdoulaye Seye of Senegal – pursuant to Executive Order 14203, “Imposing Sanctions on the International Criminal Court.”  These individuals have directly engaged in efforts by the ICC to investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute officials whose government has not consented to ICC jurisdiction. 

The ICC has repeatedly attempted to assert authority over nationals of the United States and other countries that have not consented to its jurisdiction or ratified the Rome Statute.  This sets a dangerous precedent for all nations.  

Our whole of government campaign to dismantle the threat posed by the ICC to national sovereignty will be sweeping and we expect more countries to join our campaign by ending their funding and participation in this politicized and unaccountable court. The ICC’s ability to target American nationals and those of other non-States Parties must end. The Trump Administration stands ready to take additional measures, if necessary, to systematically dismantle the ICC until it is incapable of threatening American sovereignty.

Japan’s reaction – Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae described the sanctions against ICC president Akane as “very unfortunate.” She told reporters that her government will deal with the situation by “continuing communication with relevant nations including the United States.” Japan is known to have supported the ICC for many years already.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you support the US sanctions against the two ICC officials? Do you think other nations that are in conflict with the ICC’s encroachment and abuse of power will support rally behind the United States and support sanctioning of officials? If you live in a nation which has a working justice system, are convinced that the ICC is unnecessary?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan Eyes Measure Against Russia Over Putin’s Visit to Etorofu Island

Following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Etorofu Island, Japan is considering a measure against Russia in response, according to a news report by Kyodo News. The Japanese have protested against the visit and tension with Russia is heating up.

Etorofu Island is located off Hokkaido and Japan has claimed it even though Russia has control of it. Historically, Russia – then the Soviet Union – seized Etorofu after Japan surrendered way back in World War II. The Russians call the island Iturup.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

Japan is considering taking some measure against Russia, following President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Etorofu Island, a senior Foreign Ministry official said Friday.

Putin made his first trip to the Russian-controlled, Japanese-claimed island chain off Hokkaido as president or prime minister Thursday, drawing a backlash from Tokyo, which called it “totally unacceptable.”

“We are considering what step to take going forward,” the official told reporters. An additional sanction is believed to be under consideration.

The islands, known in Japan as the Northern Territories and by Russia as the Southern Kurils, have long been at the center of a territorial row between the countries. The visit came as ties between Japan and Russia remain strained amid Moscow’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Japan maintains that the island chain, consisting of Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan and the Habomai islet group, was illegally seized by the Soviet Union soon after Japan’s surrender in World War II. Russia argues the seizure was legitimate.

On Thursday, the Japanese government summoned Nikolay Nozdrev, Russia’s ambassador in Tokyo, and lodged a strong protest over Putin’s visit, while Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the Northern Territories are an inherent part of Japanese territory “both historically and under international law.”

According to the Russian government, Putin visited a fish-processing plant, a hospital and a school and met with local residents.

The territorial dispute has meant the two countries have never signed a peace treaty after World War II.

Under former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi’s political mentor, Japan pursued closer ties with Russia in the hope of resolving the Northern Territories dispute. Abe met Putin 27 times during his tenure ending in 2020.

In 2018, the two agreed to accelerate peace treaty talks based on a 1956 joint declaration between Japan and the Soviet Union that called for the handover of two smaller islands — Shikotan and the Habomai islet group — after a peace treaty was signed.

The talks were suspended after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Prospects for resuming negotiations remain dim as ties have deteriorated following Japan’s participation in U.S.-led sanctions against Moscow.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think diplomatics between Russia and Japan will remain strained for the foreseeable future? Do you consider Russia’s seizure of Etorofu Island illegal?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Why Japan Is Struggling to Stop the Yen’s Decline

https://fed.brid.gy/r/https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/14/business/japan-yen-intervention.html

Law to Punish Japanese Flag Desecration Takes Effect

If you are caught desecrating the national flag there in Japan, you will eventually get arrested and get punished by means of imprisonment and penalty fees as a new law took effect, according to a news article by Jiji Press. About a month ago, the law to punish the desecration of Japan’s flag was enacted by the nation’s Parliament and was a legislative victory for the administration of Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, their partner Japan Innovation Party and even some opposition members.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news article of Jiji Press. Some parts in boldface…

A law to criminalize acts of damaging Japan’s national flag came into effect Thursday, amid unresolved concerns about its impact on expressive activities following criticisms that the scope of punishable acts is unclear.

Under the Japanese law, those who publicly damage, remove or deface the national flag in a way that causes people to feel extremely uncomfortable or disgusted could face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 200,000 yen. Livestreams of such acts are subject to punishment, while archive broadcasts are not.

The law seeks to protect tangible objects used as a national flag. Creative works, such as anime and images produced with generative artificial intelligence, as well as flag-shaped decorations on children’s meals and flag-inspired patterns on clothes are excluded from the scope of the law.

The legislation stipulates that whether an act is punishable is determined through a comprehensive assessment of the objective circumstances, including the external form of the act and the surrounding situation, while giving consideration to the freedom of expression and belief.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Are you aware that previously Japan had laws protecting international flags but none for the Japanese flag? What comes to your mind when you see Islamists and Leftists who damage or even burn the Japanese flag publicly? If you are residing in Japan right now, would you be willing to report the acts of flag desecration to the local authorities immediately?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Data on Foreigners Facing Deportation in Japan Shared By Immigration Agency With Local Governments

To ensure better coordination and more efficient action on immigration matters, Japan’s Immigration Services Agency has formally started the process of sharing personal data on foreign nationals facing deportation with the local governments, according to a news article by Jiji Press. The agency plans to provide monthly updates on such foreigners’ relocations or returns to their home countries.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news article of Jiji Press. Some parts in boldface…

Japan’s Immigration Services Agency has started sharing personal information on foreign nationals subject to deportation proceedings with local governments, as part of a review of policies concerning foreigners pursued by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

Previously, such information was shared only when there was consent from affected individuals, sometimes leaving local governments unable to grasp the whereabouts of foreigners subject to deportation proceedings.

The latest move is aimed at promoting appropriate responses through cooperation between the central and local governments.

In July, the agency informed local governments of the number, names, addresses, nationalities and dates of birth of foreign nationals who were subject to deportation proceedings and living outside immigration facilities as of the end of June.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the immigration services agency of Japan is doing the right thing by sharing with local governments personal information of foreigners who are facing deportation? Do you think this new strategy will improve the search for and deportation of foreigners who are staying in Japan illegally? What do you think local governments can do when it comes to illegal aliens/immigrants living within their jurisdiction? Do you think other nations should follow Japan’s examples?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japanese Farm And Food Exports Grow 10.9% During First Half Of 2026

During the first half of 2026, Japan’s exports of food and farm products grew by a huge 10.9% which is a huge economic achievement for the nation and its government, according to a news report by Kyodo News.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

Japan’s exports of agricultural, forestry and fishery products and food products in the first half of 2026 rose 10.9 percent from a year earlier to 897.7 billion yen ($5.7 billion), a record high for the period, the government said Tuesday.

Shipments to all of Japan’s top 10 destinations, including the United States and Hong Kong, exceeded year-before levels, pushing the overall total to a new January-June peak for the second straight year.

By product, green tea posted a notable gain, supported by a global matcha boom, with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries saying that growing inbound tourism has raised overseas awareness of Japanese food.

Rising health consciousness also contributed, while new sales channels expanded at supermarkets and restaurants abroad that had not previously handled Japanese food. But the pace of export growth slowed from 15.5 percent in the first half of 2025.

Among the top 10 destinations by export value, eight countries and regions, apart from second-ranked Hong Kong and third-ranked China, marked first-half records. Exports to Hong Kong increased 3.0 percent, while those to China grew 4.3 percent.

Exports to South Korea rose 20.5 percent, with yellowtail and beer showing solid gains, while those to Vietnam jumped 35.4 percent on strong demand for scallops and mackerel. The United States ranked first, up 15.3 percent to 162.6 billion yen.

Green tea, beef, apples, and sauces and mixed seasonings registered record highs for the January-June period. Green tea surged 83.5 percent to 48.2 billion yen, while yellowtail surged 69.0 percent to 43.4 billion yen.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Considering the massive number of foreign tourists in Japan, are you convinced that the greater awareness of Japanese food somehow contributed to the huge demand (for Japanese products) in countries around the world? How much food and beverages imported from Japan are being offered in your local groceries or convenience stores right now?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Filipino Housekeeping Services In Japan Gaining Popularity

In Japan, housekeeping services whose workforce involved Filipinos are gaining popularity and public trust as the nation has growing demand for such support, according to a news report by Kyodo News. The report mentioned the cheerful personalities and diligence of Filipino workers.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

Housekeeping services employing Filipino staff have gained in popularity amid growing demand in Japan for such domestic support, with one provider seeing their workforce roughly double over the past decade.

Since the Japanese government began allowing foreign nationals to provide housekeeping services in national strategic special zones in 2016, workers from the Philippines have been a top choice due to their cheerful personalities, diligence as well as expertise.

In February, a Filipino housekeeping staff member listened carefully to her client’s instructions as she made her on-site debut around a month after arriving in Japan. She assiduously took notes as the client explained in a mix of English and Japanese how to use cleaning tools and the order of detergents.

“(Filipinos) are friendly and easy to talk to and they work seriously, so I can feel at ease,” the client said.

Before 2015, only certain households, such as those of foreign diplomats, had been allowed to employ foreign housekeepers. But a legal change that year, aimed at increasing women’s workforce participation and easing labor shortages in Japan’s housekeeping industry, paved the way for foreigners to work in designated areas.

Following the law revision, Tokyo-based Pinay International Co. launched a business especially employing Filipino housekeepers. It now operates in parts of Tokyo, neighboring Kanagawa Prefecture, Osaka Prefecture and Hyogo Prefecture with more than 200 Filipino staff working as full-time employees.

The company recruits workers in the Philippines and provides extensive training before and after their arrival in Japan, while also supporting their daily life in areas such as housing.

“Foreign talent playing an active role will likely lead to revitalizing Japan,” Pinay International CEO Tetsuya Moteki, 55, said.

According to a survey by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan’s housekeeping services market has been expanding as the number of dual-income households increases.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think more Japanese households will trust housekeeping service providers once they realize their workforce includes Filipinos? What do you think makes Filipino housekeeping workers more trustworthy compared with those from other nations of Southeast Asia?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan Sees Urgent Need To Prepare Itself For New Ways Of Warfare

In this age of artificial intelligence (AI), the rising use of drones in military operations and Communist China’s disturbing presence at sea, the Defense Ministry of Japan sees the urgent need to prepare the nation for the new ways of warfare, according to a news article by Jiji Press.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news article of Jiji Press. Some parts in boldface…

Japan’s Defense Ministry emphasized the urgent need to prepare for what it calls new ways of warfare leveraging drones and artificial intelligence technology in an annual white paper adopted Tuesday.

The 2026 report, submitted by Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi to the day’s cabinet meeting, also displayed vigilance over the Chinese military’s expanding activities in the Pacific, saying Japan should respond with its “comprehensive national power.”

The white paper said that large-scale attacks combining low-cost unmanned equipment and conventional missiles have been conducted on the battlefields of Ukraine fighting Russia’s aggression.

Acknowledging that preparing for prolonged conflicts has become a key issue, the government stressed the importance of securing adequate stockpiles and ensuring sustained operational capability.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you support the idea of Japan tremendously modernizing itself militarily to defend itself while pushing back against Communist China’s military presence at sea? Would you like to see Japan become more sophisticated in the new ways of warfare using whatever state-of-the-art technologies it has? Do you think Japan should approach the United States for more advanced military hardware?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan Immigration Agency Proposes Tougher Requirements And New Pension Rules For Permanent Residency

In the latest development on reforming immigration in Japan, the nation’s immigration agency proposed tougher requirements and new pension rules for granting permanent residency to foreigners, according to a news report by Kyodo News.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

Japan’s immigration agency on Tuesday proposed tougher requirements for granting permanent residency to foreigners, including requiring applicants to maintain income above the average for Japanese households and a certain level of projected pension benefits.

The proposed guidelines are part of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s push to create an “orderly society” in which Japanese and foreign nationals coexist while cracking down on illegal activities.

The Immigration Services Agency will solicit public comments before implementing the new rules from April 2027.

Permanent residents can remain in Japan indefinitely without restrictions on their activities while retaining their original nationality. Applicants generally must have lived in Japan for at least 10 years to qualify.

It differs from naturalization, through which a person acquires Japanese citizenship.

Under the current guidelines, the three main requirements for obtaining permanent residency are good conduct, sufficient assets or skills to maintain an independent livelihood, and that granting permanent residency is in Japan’s best interests.

The revised rule would require applicants to maintain annual household income above the average for Japanese households, with the benchmark based on several government data sources.

According to a health ministry survey on living conditions released on July 15, for instance, average income per household in Japan stood at 5.75 million yen ($36,500) in 2024.

Applicants would also be required to have projected pension benefits equivalent to those payable after 30 years of enrollment in the employees’ pension program at their income level.

If the projected pension benefits fall short, they will be allowed to cover the difference with their financial assets.

The revised guidelines would also introduce a Japanese-language requirement, with applicants required to demonstrate proficiency at the level of an “independent user.”

While the population of Japanese nationals has been on a downtrend, the number of foreign residents has been increasing as Japan has been accepting more workers from abroad.

As of the end of last year, about 947,000 people held permanent residency status, with many from China and the Philippines.

Permanent residency is currently granted to a spouse of a Japanese national or a permanent residency holder when their marriage has lasted for at least three years, and the non-Japanese spouse has resided in Japan for at least one year.

The proposal would raise the thresholds to five years of marriage and three years of residence.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the proposed tougher requirements and new pension rules make a lot of sense when it comes to the granting of permanent residency to foreigners there in Japan? Do you think the proposals will discourage foreigners from Third World nations like Pakistan, Somalia and Bangladesh from seeking permanent residency in Japan? Do you think the current government of Japan is doing good enough to reform immigration? Do you think that foreigners in Japan who applied for permanent residency and committed a local crime or an act of violence should automatically be disqualified by the government?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

高市首相の熊本・被災地訪問映像に「プロモーション動画のよう」の声。首相官邸の投稿に多くの人が違和感
https://www.huffingtonpost.jp/entry/story_jp_6a71421be4b095f522ffe11c

#huffingtonpost #NEWS #災害 #sns #地震 #高市早苗 #令和8年熊本地震 #高市首相 #saigai #jishin #takaichisanae #reiwa8nenkumamotojishin #takaichishusho

Joint Yen-Buying By Japan And America Confirmed

For the first time in fifteen years, Japan and the United States conducted a joint buying of Yen following the Japanese currency’s continued weakness to the U.S. Dollar which Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama confirmed yesterday, according to a Kyodo News report. The Yen fell to almost 164 to the U.S. Dollar on July 23.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

Japan and the United States conducted coordinated yen buying Friday, Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama said, their first joint market intervention in 15 years, with the two nations ready to act again if necessary.

The intervention during New York trading on Friday came after the yen hit 163.99 to the U.S. dollar on July 23, its weakest level in around 40 years, amid mounting fears about Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s expansionary but vaguely funded fiscal policy.

“This joint action was taken pursuant to the U.S.-Japan Finance Ministers’ Joint Statement issued in September 2025 and countered the excessive volatility and disorderly movements of the Japanese yen in recent months,” Katayama said in a statement on Monday.

“The Japanese Ministry of Finance remains attentive and in close communication with our counterparts at the U.S. Treasury. We will not hesitate to conduct a further joint intervention,” she added.

After warnings by Katayama and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent of additional action to prevent the Japanese currency from depreciating, the yen briefly surged to the lower 155 level from the upper 157 range on Monday morning.

While joint currency interventions by the countries are usually reserved for emergencies, Japan has been struggling with the yen’s depreciation, which has increased import costs, threatening to accelerate inflation and jack up yields on long-term Japanese government bonds.

Washington is also believed to be wary of rising long-term Japanese interest rates pushing up U.S. rates before the congressional midterm elections in the fall, analysts said.

The previous Japan-U.S. intervention was carried out to stem the yen’s rise after the massive earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan in March 2011.

Katayama told reporters in Tokyo that Friday’s coordination between Japan and the United States was aimed at linking Tokyo’s “economic security to its unwavering alliance” with Washington.

She stressed the countries’ “close coordination” since the release of their joint statement last September, which confirmed interventions should be reserved for combating excessive volatility as well as “disorderly depreciation or appreciation.”

Japanese and U.S. authorities have pledged to take decisive action “against disorderly moves at any time,” Katayama said.

Atsushi Mimura, Japan’s top currency diplomat, called the latest coordinated intervention a “completed form” of the Japan-U.S. currency alliance, emphasizing the two countries would continue to respond “without missing a beat.”

Saying Japan “wanted a little bit of help,” President Donald Trump indicated Sunday in the United States that Washington had conducted a yen-buying intervention at the request of Takaichi’s government. He told reporters the action would benefit his nation economically.

He added, “We’re always there for Japan. Japan’s been very good to us, with the exception, of course, of Pearl Harbor,” referring to Japan’s 1941 surprise aerial attack on a naval base in Hawaii that resulted in the U.S. entry into World War II.

In New York on Friday, the yen surged to the lower 157 level against the dollar, with Japanese government sources confirming a yen-buying intervention by currency authorities.

The move came after the yen briefly soared to the 157 range Thursday, gaining nearly 5 yen in about 50 minutes before dropping back to the 160 level, as a result of a currency intervention by Japan later confirmed by market and government sources.

On Sunday, Bessent wrote on social media that the intervention “countered disorderly yen movements,” adding the United States would “not hesitate” to conduct further joint currency intervention with Japan, echoing Katayama.

He also said, “We strongly support Japan’s decisive market and monetary steps to correct the substantial undervaluation of the yen.”

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? What do you think the joint buying of Yen by the US and Japan will lead to further stabilization economically in the short term? Do you think this joint move will somehow boost both nation’s economies?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan Trend Radar: Kumamoto, Takaichi Criticism, Empress Support

Japan Trend Radar is a feature for members of our Unseen Japan Insider program that tracks trending issues…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #costofliving #earthquake #feminism #immigration #imperialfamily #Japanese #kumamotoprefecture #lgbtq #TakaichiSanae
https://www.europesays.com/japan/68096/

Japan Trend Radar: Kumamoto, Takaichi Criticism, Empress Support

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://unseen-japan.com/trend-radar-2026-08-01/

Number Of Japanese Nationals Falls Below 120 Million

The population of Japanese nationals has officially declined to less than one hundred twenty million which is the lowest figure in more than forty years, according to a news report by Kyodo News. Meanwhile, the number of foreign residents has surpassed four million.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

The number of Japanese nationals fell below 120 million for the first time in 42 years to 119,736,483 at the start of this year, the government said Wednesday, underscoring the challenges faced by a nation battling declining birth rates.

The figure as of Jan. 1 showed a drop of 917,000 people from a year earlier, the largest fall since comparable data became available in 1968, according to data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.

The number of foreign residents, meanwhile, rose 354,000 to a record 4,031,159. The ministry began compiling relevant data in 2013.

Despite government efforts to reverse the declining birth trend, the country recorded around 670,000 births, a record low, compared with around 1.59 million deaths.

Of Japan’s 47 prefectures, Tokyo was the only one that reported an increase in the number of Japanese nationals, up 0.09 percent.

Faced with labor shortages, Japan has been gradually opening its doors to foreign workers. The number of foreign residents rose for the fourth consecutive year as more people came to Japan in search of job opportunities.

The share of working-age people among foreign residents rose to 86.17 percent.

The prefecture with the largest increase in the number of foreign residents was Hokkaido, at 14.89 percent, followed by Okinawa at 14.36 percent and Oita at 13.90 percent.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? What do you think the Japanese government should do to stop the decline of the Japanese population while limiting the growth of foreign residents? Should Japan implement a ban on Islamic immigration as well as a travel ban on nations like Pakistan and Bangladesh?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Takaichi Wants Japan to “Coexist” With Foreigners. Japan’s Hard Right HATES Her for It

This week, Japan’s government announced that the country’s Japanese population had fallen below 120 million for the first time in over four decades. It marks the 17th straight year of declin…
#Japan #JP #JapanNews ##refugees #Farright #immigration #LDP #news #sanseito #TakaichiSanae #xenophobia
https://www.alojapan.com/1518925/takaichi-wants-japan-to-coexist-with-foreigners-japans-hard-right-hates-her-for-it/

https://www.alojapan.com/1518925/takaichi-wants-japan-to-coexist-with-foreigners-japans-hard-right-hates-her-for-it/ Takaichi Wants Japan to “Coexist” With Foreigners. Japan’s Hard Right HATES Her for It ##refugees #FarRight #immigration #Japan #JapanNews #LDP #news #sanseito #TakaichiSanae #xenophobia This week, Japan’s government announced that the country’s Japanese population had fallen below 120 million for the first time in over four decades. It marks the 17th straight year of decline, and the steepest drop on record, in both raw num

[Insider] Takaichi Wants Japan to “Coexist” With Foreigners. Japan’s Hard Right HATES Her for It

This week, Japan’s government announced that the country’s Japanese population had fallen below 120 million for the first…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #farright #immigration #LDP #Refugees #Sanseito #TakaichiSanae #xenophobia
https://www.europesays.com/japan/67495/

Takaichi Wants Japan to “Coexist” With Foreigners. Japan’s Hard Right HATES Her for It

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://unseen-japan.com/takaichi-coexistence-foreigners-online-right/

Japan Considering GPS Tracking Of Stalkers To Prevent Further Harm

In a serious effort to prevent stalkers from harming more people in their country, the Japanese government is seriously considering GPS tracking on stalkers by means of compelling the perpetrators to wear them and possibly require them to undergo counseling, according to a news report by Kyodo News. It should be noted that cases of stalking in Japan grew dramatically over the past several years.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news article of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

Japan on Tuesday compiled emergency countermeasures aimed to prevent further harm and protect victims from stalkers that would include having perpetrators wear GPS tracking devices.

The plans submitted to the ministerial meeting for measures against crime come as the government has been studying international cases where devices have been used to track sex offenders.

The government will also be investigating technologies that enable the miniaturization of said devices and may also revise the current anti-stalking law.

The GPS tracking devices would be utilized for people who have been handed down a restraining order intended to prevent them from stalking their victims, who would be notified if the stalker is close by.

Discussions will be further held to determine whether to limit the target of the devices to more dangerous cases.

Stalking has increasingly come under the spotlight in Japan in recent years, with 3,037 restraining orders in 2025, the highest since 2000 when the current anti-stalking law took effect.

The revisions may also include a requirement for stalkers to undergo counseling.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the Japanese government will come up with strong measures to prevent stalkers from harming more people in Japan? Are you aware that there are now foreign residents (who originated from Third World nations) in Japan who engaged in stalking, trespassing, and the assaulting of women?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan’s Intelligence Reform Has a Counterintelligence Problem – The Diplomat

In order to deal with a worsening regional security environment, Japan is stepping up its intelligence capabilities. Since establishing the National Intelligence Council (NIC) thi…
#Japan #JP #JapanNews #Counterintelligence #EastAsia #Japanintelligenceagency #Japanintelligencereform #news #security #TakaichiSanae
https://www.alojapan.com/1518346/japans-intelligence-reform-has-a-counterintelligence-problem-the-diplomat/

Japan’s Intelligence Reform Has a Counterintelligence Problem – The Diplomat

In order to deal with a worsening regional security environment, Japan is stepping up its intelligence capabilities. Since…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #Counterintelligence #EastAsia #Japanintelligenceagency #Japanintelligencereform #Security #TakaichiSanae
https://www.europesays.com/japan/66975/

https://www.alojapan.com/1518346/japans-intelligence-reform-has-a-counterintelligence-problem-the-diplomat/ Japan’s Intelligence Reform Has a Counterintelligence Problem – The Diplomat #Counterintelligence #EastAsia #Japan #JapanIntelligenceAgency #JapanIntelligenceReform #JapanNews #news #security #TakaichiSanae In order to deal with a worsening regional security environment, Japan is stepping up its intelligence capabilities. Since establishing the National Intelligence Council (NIC) this summer, Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae acknowledged the thr

Cyberattacks Became Faster And More Sophisticated With AI

In relation with the recent wave of cyberattacks that impacted several businesses and their customers in Japan, the president of S&J Corp. pointed to artificial intelligence (AI) that made the said attacks faster and more sophisticated, according to a news article by Jiji Press.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news article of Jiji Press. Some parts in boldface…

Cyberattacks are becoming faster and more sophisticated with the use of artificial intelligence, Nobuo Miwa, president of Tokyo-based information security service provider S&J Corp., has said in a recent interview.

His remarks came after a series of cyberattacks on major Japanese companies, including frozen food maker Nichirei Corp., household goods supplier Askul Corp. and beverage maker Asahi Group Holdings Ltd., which suffered serious disruptions to their corporate activities due to system failures.

Asked about trends in cyberattacks, Miwa said AI-driven attacks have increased in recent months, shortening the time between the discovery of a vulnerability and the launch of an attack. “Attack programs can be created in the blink of an eye with AI,” he said.

Because Japanese companies have historically faced fewer cyberattacks, many lack adequate defenses, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals, Miwa added.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? How do you think Japanese businesses and the government will react to prevent further cyberattacks enhanced by AI? Do you think an international group of hackers or activists or Islamic terrorists could be behind the recent cyberattack wave in Japan? What do you think cybersecurity experts in Japan should do to protect the nation from more cyberattacks?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Time to decide: A critical moment in Japan-US missile defense cooperation

There is no more important bilateral air and missile defense cooperative relationship than that between the United States…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #aegis #airforce #AMRAAM #army #asia #Chu-SAM #GlidePhaseInterceptor #GoldenDome #IBCS #indo-pacific #LTAMDS #Op-EdCommentary #operationepicfury #PAC-3 #Patriot #shinjirokoizumi #SM-3BlockIIA #TakaichiSanae
https://www.europesays.com/japan/65259/

[Insider] Japan’s PM Says She Doesn’t Sleep. That’s Gonna Get People Killed.

Japan’s first female Prime Minister is apparently also its eepiest. Things had been going well for Takaichi Sanae…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #Japanese #karoshi #LDP #overwork #sleepdeprivation #TakaichiSanae #Women'sRights
https://www.europesays.com/japan/64013/

[Insider] Japan’s PM Says She Doesn’t Sleep. That’s Gonna Get People Killed.

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://unseen-japan.com/takaichi-sleep-karoshi/

The Power Behind Japan’s Takaichi Government – The Diplomat

On the day of a snap winter election – one that would ultimately end in a landslide victory for the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) – Takaichi  Sanae sto…
#Japan #JP #JapanNews #EastAsia #HirofumiYoshimura #Japansecurityreform #Japanese #Japanesenews #LDP-NipponIshincoalition #news #NipponIshinnoKai #politics #TakaichiSanae #Takaichisecuritypolicy
https://www.alojapan.com/1515730/the-power-behind-japans-takaichi-government-the-diplomat/

The Power Behind Japan’s Takaichi Government – The Diplomat

On the day of a snap winter election – one that would ultimately end in a landslide victory…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #EastAsia #HirofumiYoshimura #Japansecurityreform #Japanese #LDP-NipponIshincoalition #NIPPONISHINNOKAI #Politics #TakaichiSanae #Takaichisecuritypolicy
https://www.europesays.com/japan/63361/

https://www.alojapan.com/1515730/the-power-behind-japans-takaichi-government-the-diplomat/ The Power Behind Japan’s Takaichi Government – The Diplomat #EastAsia #HirofumiYoshimura #Japan #JapanNews #JapanSecurityReform #Japanese #JapaneseNews #LDPNipponIshinCoalition #news #NipponIshinNoKai #politics #TakaichiSanae #TakaichiSecurityPolicy On the day of a snap winter election – one that would ultimately end in a landslide victory for the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) – Takaichi  Sanae stood alongside two men. They were not members

Japan’s Parliament Enacts National Flag Vandalism Bill

Japan’s Parliament enacted a bill that would criminalize acts of damaging the national flag, according to a news report by Kyodo News. This new development is the latest legislative victory for Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae whose administration, parliamentary partner and even a few opposition elements submitted it. Those who opposed the bill called it “divisive” and “unconstitutional”.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

Japan’s parliament on Friday enacted a divisive law introducing criminal penalties for desecrating the national flag, achieving a key legislative goal of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in the current Diet session.

The ruling parties argued the law was needed because Japan already criminalized desecration of foreign flags but had no equivalent provision covering its own. Some opposition parties and legal experts criticized the measure, saying it may infringe on freedom of expression and could be unconstitutional.

The bill, jointly submitted by the ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party and Japan Innovation Party, along with the opposition Democratic Party for the People and Sanseito, cleared the House of Councillors.

Under the law, individuals who damage, remove or defile the national flag in a way that arouses “strong feelings of discomfort or disgust” in others could face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 200,000 yen ($1,200).

The penalties mirror existing provisions in the Penal Code on desecration of foreign flags and follow an October agreement between the LDP and JIP identifying the legal discrepancy as one to be resolved.

Parliamentary debate centered on the law’s implications for constitutional rights and what constitutes a punishable act, with the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan among its critics.

Under the law, whether an act is punishable will be determined based on the circumstances as a whole. LDP lawmakers cited as possible violations stomping on a flag, covering it with mud in a street or park, and soiling it with feces or urine.

Livestreaming the cutting up or burning of a Japanese flag in a private space is also punishable, although a provision making the subsequent sharing of such footage an offense was dropped during negotiations to secure the DPP and Sanseito’s support for the bill.

A supplementary provision calls for a review around three years after the law takes effect to determine whether additional measures are needed in light of developments such as the online dissemination of images of flag desecration.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think Japan’s parliament did the right move enacting the national flag vandalism proposal? Do you believe that desecrating your nation’s flag should be penalized? What is your opinion about the Islamists and Leftists – both foreigners and citizens – in America and Europe who burned national flags so publicly and shamelessly? Did you notice social media posts that captured images of Leftists and woke nuts in Japan who desecrated the Japanese flag?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan Is Building a New Intelligence Agency With Help From the West

https://fed.brid.gy/r/https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/13/world/asia/japan-intelligence-agency.html

Wieloletnie ramy finansowania Takaichi Sanae

Dokument jest trafny jako diagnoza strukturalna, ale sukces proponowanych zmian zależy od dwóch rzeczy: twardej selekcji wydatków oraz zdolności do naruszenia interesów chronionych grup. Japonia stoi praktycznie przed wyborem, czy przejadać resztki zapasów wygenerowanych w czasie bumu gospodarczego czy inwestować w przyszłość.

https://wp.me/p3fv0T-ipu #Japonia #reforma #finanse #budżet #inwestycje #usługi #zdrowie #opieka #TakaichiSanae #KatayamaSatsuki #propozycje #plan #POLECANE

China Doubles Japan Export Control List in Rare Earth Squeeze

Chinese President Xi Jinping. Reuters/Yonhap News China has added a large number of Japanese defense-related research institutes and…
#EuropeSays #Japan #JP #Economy #Chinaexportban #ChinaJapanrareearth #ChinaJapantensions #criticalminerals #dual-usegoodsexportcontrols #EconomyofJapan #Japan'seconomy #Japaneseeconomy #TakaichiSanae #terbiumdysprosium #tungstensupply
https://www.europesays.com/japan/49830/

What To Watch On YouTube Right Now – Part 142

Welcome back my readers, YouTube viewers and all others who followed this series of articles focused on YouTube videos worth watching.

Have you been searching for something fun or interesting to watch on YouTube? Do you feel bored right now and you crave for something to see on the world’s most popular online video destination?

I recommend you check out the following videos I found.

#1 Retrospective Videos Of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon – Back in 2000, I was fortunate enough to have seen Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon in the local cinema here in the Philippines. Directed by Ang Lee, the film was a dramatic martial arts film set in ancient China. Apart from having established Asian actors Michelle Yeoh, Pei-Pei Cheng and Chow-Yun Fat, the movie’s huge success made Zhang Zhiyi an instant star as she carried a very important role. Its importance in the history of global movies was realized when it earned ten Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. To this day, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a highly admired film and it is not surprising to see it being featured in many YouTube videos. What I posted below are for your enjoyment and enlightenment. Observe how the film impacts YouTubers in their reaction videos.

https://youtu.be/5dR34L1Kj7M?si=24LYnvQ9rVyDdrd1

https://youtu.be/6KlLH3uTDCM?si=Qc_pJ-Mn6jJYzEAo

https://youtu.be/kkjN4Pu9aOw?si=WoJxFI32-Wt9veQB

https://youtu.be/G7mrjFdFLXw?si=fVIGc5Lg4UZizF_8

#2 EOM Reacts’ Minority Report Video – If you love Tom Cruise and if you want his best collaboration with Steven Spielberg, you cannot go wrong with Minority Report. By today’s standards, Minority Report is still very engaging to watch and it also has Spielberg’s clever approach on storytelling as elements of science fiction, suspense and film noir were blended nicely on-screen. That said, you must see how the movie impacts EOM Reacts’ in his reaction video posted below. Go watch it!

https://youtu.be/Hyn0AhXqP38?si=l8vbX9PzEWtiOjFY

#3 The Resident Evil Trilogy On PlayStation Revisited – When I was very young, I was fortunate enough to play Resident Evil, Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis on the PlayStation. The survival horror genre Capcom started with the first RE game really grew not only in popularity and commercial sales, but also in clever game design that included cinema-like storytelling strongly focused on the zombie apocalypse. By the end of 1999, the RE trilogy on PlayStation positively impacted video gaming as a whole and the characters Jill Valentine, Chris Redfield, Leon Kennedy and Claire Redfield became wildly popular with gamers. Considering how old the first three Resident Evil games are, do you think they have aged well and are they playable enough for gamers who born after those games were released? Watch and learn from the retrospective video below.

https://youtu.be/IZb54l7ZIwo?si=qtGsUYIczlOblvIl

#4 Ranting For Vengeance Slams Insomniac’s Wolverine Video Game – Anyone who closely followed the life and times of the iconic Wolverine in comics should be concerned about how he is presented in the upcoming Insomniac-developed Marvel’s Wolverine video game. This early, there are clearly signs of wokeness in the said video game and those are signs that show that Insomniac does not give a damn about the literary legacy of Wolverine. You can learn more by watching Ranting for Vengeance’s video and each time he slammed Marvel’s Wolverine, he backs it up with facts and details. Watch his video now!

https://youtu.be/TnIyE5x251g?si=sFqzbRVB7WdDkk2q

#5 You, Me and the Movies React To Showdown In Little Tokyo – I was a teenager when Showdown In Little Tokyo was released in local cinemas here in the Philippines way back in 1991. I never saw it on the big screen back then but I do remember the aggressive pre-release promotions that include previews and an in-depth behind-the-scenes making on TV. The local buzz in 1991 was this…the film was entertaining and the team-up between Dolph Lundgren and the late Brandon Lee (son of Bruce Lee) was well-received. Considering how old the action movie is, one has to wonder if it has aged well. You can find out by watching the reaction video by You, Me and the Movies now.

https://youtu.be/RI0ygeLC3vk?si=8lqbRG7O9izN4BV5

#6 Tokyo-style Pizza Attracts Many – Have you ever heard of the Tokyo-style pizza? One food joint in Japan started it and already it has attracted a lot of foreigners as customers. Pizza has its Italian origins but in Tokyo, the ways to customize it, cook it and make it truly distinct from the rest of the world have been realized. Watch and learn from the Nippon TV video below.

https://youtu.be/_Qu2oKPkwMA?si=dbm_Y-eRp8xWimz1

#7 Japan’s Military – Under the leadership of Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, Japan has emerged as a military powerhouse and it will soon export military hardware to nations that need them. Japan is still operating with its pacifist constitution but that will not stop it from becoming a valuable partner to nations that need their military expertise and technologies. The Self-Defense Force (SDF) of Japan is highly trained and very efficient with military operations as seen in the Nippon TV video below. Watch and learn.

https://youtu.be/VpYvX-eFRNM?si=hbgcU__IrTiwfJV_

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japanese Prime Minister Hails US-Iran Deal

During her European visit, Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae hailed the deal between the United States and the Islamic terrorist regime of Iran to end the fighting while paving the way for international oil tankers to safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz, according to a news report by Kyodo News. Japan also remained consistent in its opposition to Iran’s nuclear weapons ambition.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Kyodo News report. Some parts in boldface…

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Monday hailed a U.S.-Iranian deal aimed at ending their monthslong war as a “big step” to de-escalating the conflict that has brought uncertainty to the global economy and roiled her resource-poor country.

Takaichi, who stopped by Italy before attending the Group of Seven summit in France, also told reporters Japan will take part in a joint statement issued by four European nations that welcomed the development and touched on minesweeping operations toward achieving the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

“We have been asked to participate…and we will,” the prime minister said about the statement by the leaders of Britain, France, Germany and Italy, after U.S. President Donald Trump said a deal with Iran has been reached that will lead to the reopening of the key energy artery, which has been effectively closed amid the conflict.

Takaichi noted it is important that the contents of the memorandum of understanding, which Trump said will be signed Friday, are “steadily implemented” as well as the “free and safe navigation” of vessels through the strait.

Japan, which has traditionally maintained amicable ties with Iran, has been making “proactive diplomatic efforts” based on the position that “what matters most is de-escalation of the situation,” she also said.

The joint statement by the European nations vowed support for the implementation of the U.S.-Iran deal “rapidly and comprehensively,” while noting that “the urgent re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz with unconditional and unrestricted freedom of navigation is essential.”

“We are committed to playing our part to achieve this — in accordance with our respective constitutional requirements — including through a strictly defensive and independent mission to reassure commercial shipping and conduct mine clearance operations,” it said.

With discussions between the United States and Iran over Tehran’s nuclear development to start after the signing of the deal, the statement also said the European countries are “prepared to lift relevant sanctions in response to clear, verifiable steps by Iran” toward scrapping its program.

Takaichi reiterated Japan’s position of opposing Iran’s development of nuclear weapons, citing her country’s experience of being the only country to have suffered atomic bombing in the final stage of World War II.

In Tokyo, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said at a press conference that the memorandum, if implemented properly, would “help reduce risks to both the Japanese and global economies by ensuring free and safe navigation” through the strait.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Are you convinced that US-Iran deal will ensure complete nuclear disarmament of the Islamic terrorist regime of Iran? Do you think the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz will pave the way for significant oil price reductions? Once revealed publicly, do you think the final details of the US-Iran deal will satisfy Japan and the European nations?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan’s Steelmaker To Invest Up To $2.5 Billion In America

The steel industry of the United States will receive a much-needed boost as Japanese steel giant Nippon Steel Corp. will invest up to $2.5 billion in the Pennsylvania-based Mon Valley Works over the next three years, according to a news article by Jiji Press.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Jiji Press news article. Some parts in boldface…

Nippon Steel Corp. plans to invest up to 2.5 billion dollars in United States Steel Corp.’s Mon Valley Works in Pennsylvania over the next three years, the U.S. steelmaker said Monday.

“The total investment may range from approximately 2 billion to 2.5 billion dollars, more than double the original commitment” of the Japanese steelmaker, which acquired U.S. Steel last year, the Pittsburgh-based company said.

The investment includes construction of a new hot strip mill, set to replace an 87-year-old facility to produce high-value steel products such as those used in automobiles, U.S. Steel said.

The U.S. steelmaker said that the investment would generate 1.7 billion dollars in economic impact and create up to 6,381 jobs in Pennsylvania over three years.

The investment will deliver “lasting benefits to Pennsylvania workers, businesses, and communities,” U.S. Steel said.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think this major investment pledge by the Japanese steel giant will be economically beneficial to the steel workers, small businesses and local communities in the state of Pennsylvania? Do you think more Japanese investment in America will lift up the nation’s economy as long as the ties between US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae remain strong?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

[Insider] Japan Wants to Jail Men Who Buy Sex. Sex Workers Say That’ll Get Women Hurt

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://unseen-japan.com/japan-sex-workers-nordic-model/

Japan Joins America’s Genesis Mission

Japan and the United States have formally confirmed their partnership on the Genesis Mission project and together they will invest heavily on it and cooperate closely over the next several years, according to a news report by NHK World. That said, Japan is officially the first international partner on the ambitious project.

Officially launched by US President Donald Trump in late-2025, Genesis Mission unites the US Department of Energy (DOE) National Labs, industry, academia, and more to harness AI for breakthroughs in energy dominance, discovery science, and national security.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the NHK World report. Some parts in boldface…

Japan will join a US national project called “Genesis Mission,” which is aimed at accelerating scientific research and technological innovation by using artificial intelligence and supercomputers.

Japan will be the project’s first international partner.

The US and Japanese governments will each invest 500 million dollars in the project over five years.

US President Donald Trump’s administration launched the project last November.

Delegates from the US Department of Energy, Japanese ministries of education, science and technology as well as Economy, Trade and Industry signed the statement of intent at the DOE in Washington on Thursday.

DOE Under Secretary for Science and Genesis Mission Lead Dario Gil said it is a “defining moment” for the next era of science.

Under the partnership, US national laboratories and leading Japanese research institutions, including Riken and the National Institute for Materials Science, will boost research collaborations to advance breakthroughs in areas such as quantum information science, fusion energy and biotechnology.

The move is also aimed at strengthening the two partners’ global competitiveness in science and technology with China in mind.

The US and Japanese governments also plan to discuss how to ensure the protection of crucial databases and intellectual property.

The vice-minister for policy coordination of the Japanese education, science and technology ministry, Kakita Yasuyoshi, said Japan has abundant quality data resources obtained through research and development.

To learn more about Genesis Mission, click here.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the US-Japan partnership will boost the chances of breakthroughs within the Genesis Mission?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan And The Philippines Committed To Develop Luzon Economic Corridor

Following the big meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae and Philippines president Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos in Tokyo, the two nations confirmed they will work together on developing the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) into an economic hub described as “world-class”, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA news article. Some parts in boldface…

The Philippines and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to transform the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) into a “world-class economic hub,” recognizing its strategic role in strengthening regional economic architecture and global supply chain resilience.

In a joint statement following a summit meeting in Tokyo, Japan on Thursday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged to deepen cooperation on high-impact infrastructure and economic initiatives under the LEC framework.

Priority areas include rail and port modernization, clean energy, semiconductor supply chains, digital connectivity, agribusiness, and civilian port upgrades.

“They also reaffirmed their strong commitment to transforming the LEC into a world-class economic hub that strengthens global supply chains, accelerates economic development, and delivers mutual economic prosperity,” the joint statement read.

The LEC is a trilateral initiative involving the Philippines, Japan, and the United States (US) aimed at enhancing connectivity and economic growth across Luzon, particularly along the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas corridor.

The Philippines and Japan acknowledged the importance of trilateral cooperation with the US and coordination with like-minded partners such as Australia and India in upholding a “free and open” international order based on the rule of law.

The two leaders emphasized that strengthening infrastructure connectivity and resilience through Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) is vital not only to the Philippines’ economic growth but also to regional stability.

Japan reaffirmed its support for “high-quality, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure development” to help advance the Philippines’ economic and social transformation.

The two countries also agreed to deepen cooperation in economic security, including efforts to strengthen resilient and diversified supply chains in critical minerals, renewable energy, automotive manufacturing, and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI).

They likewise committed to enhancing collaboration on digital infrastructure, including undersea cables and 5G Open RAN technologies, while promoting secure and trustworthy AI ecosystems through the Japan-ASEAN Co-creation Initiative for AI.

On trade and investment, both sides stressed the importance of full implementation of existing agreements such as the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership, and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think Japan’s involvement in the Luzon Economic Corridor will be beneficial to the Philippines economically? What do you think Japan can gain from developing the Luzon Economic Corridor?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

[Insider] Why Gender Equality is Stalling Under Japan’s First Female Prime Minister

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://unseen-japan.com/takaichi-gender-equality-stalling/