The meeting , which included a brief photo session with frontman Ian Gillan and other members, offered a rare reprieve for a leader facing mounting geopolitical and economic pressures. 

Since taking office in October 2025 as Japan’s first female prime minister, Takaichi has contended with diplomatic tensions with China, a weakening yen, rising prices, and the risk of an energy crunch linked to instability in the Middle East.

For a moment, however, the demands of office gave way to something more personal: a lifelong fan meeting the band that shaped her musical identity.

Takaichi’s deep roots in music

Takaichi’s connection to hard rock and heavy metal runs deep. She told the band she first bought their landmark album Machine Head as a grade school student, drawn to signature tracks such as Smoke on the Water and Highway Star.

In her earlier years, the premier played keyboard in a Deep Purple tribute band in middle school before switching to drums at university, a transition that cemented her as an amateur drummer. Even today, she has joked about turning to the drums to relieve stress, quipping that she plays “Burn” after arguments at home.

Her tastes extend across the genre, with Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden also among her cited influences.

This musical background has occasionally crossed into diplomacy. In January, Takaichi shared a lighthearted drum session with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung following a bilateral summit in Nara, where the two leaders played K-pop tracks side by side and exchanged signed drumsticks in a symbolic gesture of cooperation.

Who are Deep Purple?

Formed in 1968 , Deep Purple is widely regarded as a cornerstone of hard rock and early heavy metal, helping define a heavier, more experimental sound that would shape generations of musicians.

Their relationship with Japan is particularly significant. The 1972 double live album Made in Japan, recorded during their first tour of the country, is often cited among the greatest live rock recordings — cementing their reputation as a formidable live act.

More than five decades later, that bond endures. The band is set to kick off its 2026 Japan tour on April 11 at Tokyo’s Nippon Budokan.

For Takaichi, the visit was both symbolic and personal. 

“I have the deepest respect for the way you continue to make rock history,” she told the group.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has ordered stricter enforcement of ordinances banning street drinking, shirtless roaming and late-night videoke as part of its “Safe City” initiative, initially covering Metro Manila. Interior Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla said police would ensure compliance, citing links between street drinking and violence. Videoke use must follow local time limits, typically beyond 10 p.m., with complaints handled via emergency services. Authorities will also enforce curfews for minors. The Philippine National Police will deploy additional personnel and crack down on taxi overcharging following a recent viral incident.

US extends rotational Marine deployment in Philippines

The United States Marine Corps is extending the deployment of its Marine Rotational Force–Southeast Asia (MRF-SEA) in the Philippines beyond its usual six-month cycle to deepen military cooperation. A new command element from the I Marine Expeditionary Force has taken over, integrating forces with Philippine counterparts under Task Force-Philippines. The move, made at Manila’s invitation, aligns with the country’s Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept. MRF-SEA, deployed since 2023, is a scalable force supporting joint operations, crisis response and capability coordination, with the current rotation operating primarily from the Philippines rather than moving across Southeast Asia.

Japanese troops take part in US-Philippines war drills

Japanese troops have joined military drills in the Philippines for the first time, marking a milestone in regional defence cooperation. Around 420 personnel from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force are participating in the annual Salaknib exercises alongside Philippine and US forces under the US-led Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center. The drills, running until May 20, include live-fire and operational training across northern Luzon. Forces involved include about 4,400 Filipino and 2,800 US troops, with smaller contingents from Australia and New Zealand, as multinational exercises expand across the archipelago.

Manila named among world’s best destinations for 2026

Manila has been named among the world’s best destinations for 2026 by National Geographic, cited mainly for its food scene. The Philippine capital joins cities such as Milan, Québec and Beijing, with highlights including Binondo bakeries like Eng Bee Tin and Ho-Land, and restaurants such as Manam and Toyo Eatery. The recognition comes despite a downturn in Philippine tourism, with arrivals falling to 5.24 million in 2025, while regional peers saw growth. Analysts cite weak promotion, infrastructure gaps and rising travel costs. A Klook study, however, points to resilient domestic travel demand.

Marcos urged to resist joint oil deal with China

Critics have warned the Philippine government against compromising maritime rights as it resumes energy talks with China. The Stratbase Institute and Bayan Muna chair Neri Colmenares said joint exploration in the West Philippine Sea risks undermining sovereignty and ignoring Beijing’s actions. They stressed any deal must comply with the 2016 arbitral ruling affirming Philippine rights. Concerns follow President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s remarks that the energy crisis could open room for agreement. Officials from both sides recently held initial talks on potential oil and gas cooperation in China.

But in recent month, Takaichi has shown a markedly different side.

During a January meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, Takaichi sat behind a drum kit and joined him in a brief performance of K-pop hits, including BTS’ “Dynamite.” The jam session, held in Nara, her hometown, capped Lee’s official visit and quickly went viral online.

It was a nod to Takaichi’s past as a heavy metal drummer and, as she later wrote, fulfilled Lee’s long-held wish to play the instrument.

Weeks later, Takaichi again leaned into cultural symbolism during talks with French President Emmanuel Macron. At a joint appearance in Tokyo, the two leaders cupped their hands and mimicked the “Kamehameha,” a signature move from the globally popular anime Dragon Ball.

The moment, shared widely on social media, offered a stark contrast to the substance of their discussions, where Macron stressed Europe’s “predictability” in uncertain times, taking an apparent swipe at U.S. policy under Donald Trump .

As she navigates a complex geopolitical landscape, Takaichi appears to be adding a new tool to her playbook.

From drum kits to anime gestures, Japan’s “Iron Lady” is showing that even the most hardline leaders can wield a softer touch — and that, in diplomacy, personality can be as powerful as policy .

The course includes slalom cones that racers must navigate without losing speed. Braking is done by dragging a foot, and the track is lined with plastic barricades. The setup creates a competitive environment for participants and spectators.

Wong’s comments came after a week of high-level diplomacy that placed Singapore in the middle of competing strategic relationships. He attended the Boao Forum for Asia in Hainan, where he delivered a keynote speech describing China as an important factor in building a more resilient global order. 

The China visit followed his first official trip to Japan as prime minister earlier in March, during which the two countries upgraded their ties to a strategic partnership, with cooperation planned in areas such as artificial intelligence and the green transition.

He said the back-to-back visits were not designed as a coordinated signal. The Japan trip had originally been planned for 2025 but was postponed, while the Boao invitation arrived separately. The timing ultimately worked out, he said, and allowed him to engage both partners in quick succession.

Ties between China and Japan have been deteriorating, including sharp rhetoric over Taiwan and signs Tokyo may be preparing to downgrade relations with Beijing. Wong said Singapore recognises the relationship is in a “difficult phase”, but insisted it does not see diplomacy as a zero-sum game.

Singapore’s approach, he said, is to maintain “many friends” and avoid taking sides in major-power rivalries.

What happened

Why it matters

Context

Aftermath

Moscow described the mission as routine, saying the aircraft carried out scheduled patrols and training exercises, including aerial refuelling, in full compliance with international airspace rules. 

The flights took place outside Japanese territorial airspace, and no official response has yet been issued by Tokyo on whether assets were scrambled to monitor the activity.

What happened

According to the Russian defence ministry , MiG-31I aircraft equipped with Kinzhal hypersonic missiles conducted patrol flights over neutral waters in the Sea of Japan. Crews practised in-flight refuelling as part of the exercise. The ministry characterised the mission as a standard operation by the Aerospace Forces.

Why it matters

The patrols were disclosed publicly by Moscow — an unusual step — and occurred just ahead of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s visit to the United States. Analysts say the timing suggests the flights may have been intended to signal Russia’s military capabilities and presence in the region.

The capability

The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal is an air-launched hypersonic missile, reportedly derived from the Iskander short-range ballistic missile. Russia says it can reach speeds of up to Mach 10 and strike targets at distances of around 2,000 kilometres, with the ability to carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. However, some Western experts have questioned the extent of its hypersonic performance, noting interceptions during the war in Ukraine.

Relationship under strain

Russian and Chinese military activity near Japan’s airspace regularly triggers monitoring operations by Japanese forces. Recent surveillance missions have included Japanese aircraft tracking foreign naval movements near the archipelago. Relations between Tokyo and Moscow remain strained, particularly over a long-running territorial dispute and Japan’s support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion.

The bigger picture

Some analysts view the flights as a demonstration that Russia can sustain a military presence in key maritime corridors linking Northeast Asia to the Pacific. The move also comes amid shifting global deployments, with the United States engaged in other conflicts, potentially altering regional security dynamics.

Japan is unlikely to send forces to the Strait of Hormuz

At the centre of the meeting is Trump’s push for allies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil route effectively disrupted amid the Iran conflict .

Washington has urged partners, including Japan, to contribute naval assets such as minesweepers to protect shipping. But Tokyo has drawn a firm line. Takaichi has repeatedly signalled that deploying the Self-Defense Forces would be “legally difficult,” constrained by Japan’s pacifist constitution and the risks of engaging in a state-to-state conflict.

This makes direct military involvement highly unlikely, setting up what could be the summit’s most sensitive point of friction.

Takaichi will try to balance alliance pressure with domestic limits

The meeting is widely viewed as a diplomatic test for Takaichi, who must navigate competing pressures: maintaining strong ties with Washington while adhering to legal and political constraints at home.

Public support for involvement in the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran remains low, and any move towards deployment could trigger backlash. Yet Japan’s dependence on Middle Eastern oil — most of which passes through Hormuz — leaves it deeply exposed to prolonged disruption.

Takaichi is expected to clearly outline “what Japan can and cannot do,” seeking to reassure Trump without overstepping constitutional boundaries.

Japan is expected to offer non-military support instead

While ruling out combat roles, Tokyo is likely to propose alternative contributions.

These could include intelligence-sharing, logistical coordination, evacuation support and diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilising the region. Officials have also hinted at possible limited deployments for surveillance or research purposes, particularly after any ceasefire.

Such measures would allow Japan to demonstrate alignment with the U.S. without becoming directly entangled in the conflict.

Broader security and economic cooperation will remain on the agenda

Despite the dominance of the Iran crisis, both sides are expected to advance discussions on other strategic priorities.

These include China’s growing military activity, risks surrounding Taiwan , and North Korea’s weapons programmes. Economic and technological cooperation — from missile defence to energy diversification — is also likely to feature, even as immediate geopolitical tensions take precedence.

The alliance will be tested but likely held together

Trump and Takaichi have had warm ties since the latter rose to power in October 2025.

But their summit comes at a volatile moment, with Trump signalling frustration at allies and raising expectations for burden-sharing.

For Takaichi, the challenge will be to show Japan remains a reliable partner while avoiding commitments that could breach its legal framework or inflame domestic opinion.

How both leaders manage these tensions may shape not only Japan’s role in the Middle East crisis, but also the future tone of one of the region’s most important alliances.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has also taken a clearer public stance than Chinese President Xi Jinping, condemning the war and particularly Iran’s attacks on civilian facilities.

Additionally, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi on Monday urged Iran to exercise restraint during a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, calling for an early de-escalation as attacks between the warring sides intensify.

“The continued exchange of attacks has worsened the regional situation, and I called for an early de-escalation,” Motegi told reporters.

He also pressed Iran to stop attacks on civilian facilities in Gulf states and end threats to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a route through which much of Japan’s energy imports pass. Motegi additionally sought the release of two Japanese nationals detained in Iran.

Oil release pledge

The diplomatic engagement comes as Tokyo moves aggressively to cushion the economic fallout from the conflict.

Japan has pledged to release 80 million barrels of oil as part of an unprecedented 400-million-barrel coordinated intervention by 32 members of the International Energy Agency, aimed at calming markets shaken by the prospect of supply disruptions.

Takaichi said the government would begin releasing oil reserves as early as Monday as tankers struggle to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

“As oil tankers continue to be virtually unable to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, oil imports into our country are expected to decrease significantly from later this month,” Takaichi said.

Japan plans to release 15 days’ worth of private reserves and one month of state reserves, marking the first time the country has independently tapped its stockpiles to stabilise markets.

Preparations at home

But back home, the crisis is also reshaping Japan’s domestic energy debate. 

Opposition leader Yuichiro Tamaki of the Democratic Party for the People has called for the country to restart all available nuclear reactors to reduce dependence on Middle Eastern fuel.

“Unless we make full use of nuclear power… electricity bills will inevitably rise,” Tamaki said.

Japan shut down all 54 reactors after the 2011 Fukushima disaster, but only 15 of the remaining operable units have since restarted.

Economic officials are also preparing for wider economic fallout , with Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama saying the government was coordinating with G7 partners and stood ready to act against market volatility triggered by the conflict.

“Markets are very volatile in the wake of developments in Iran. We are ready to take all necessary steps, coordinating closely and nimbly with overseas authorities,” she told parliament.

With energy security and market stability at stake, Tokyo appears increasingly ready to step into the diplomatic and economic space left open.

Under the proposal , the legal upper limit for fees to change residence status or extend a period of stay would rise to ¥100,000 ($630) from the current ¥10,000 ($63). The cap for permanent residency applications would jump to ¥300,000 ($1,900), thirty times the current ceiling.

The government has not yet set the final fee levels, but officials noted that permanent residency applications could cost around ¥200,000 ($1,250), while other procedures could range from ¥10,000 ($63) to ¥70,000 ($440), depending on the length of stay.

Japan last raised the statutory cap in 1982. While individual fees have been adjusted within that limit over the years, the ceiling itself has remained unchanged until now.

Immigration authorities said the revision reflects rising costs associated with managing a rapidly growing foreign population and expanding immigration systems.

Japan had a record 4.13 million foreign residents at the end of 2025, according to the Immigration Services Agency.

This higher cap will help cover administrative costs tied to residence examinations as well as broader spending on immigration management, including digitalisation, My Number-linked data systems and services aimed at supporting foreign residents.

Justice Minister Hiroshi Hiraguchi said the changes are intended to ensure foreign nationals “bear an appropriate amount of the costs” related to their entry and residence in Japan.

The bill also introduces plans for Japan’s version of an electronic travel authorisation system, known as JESTA, aimed at screening visa-exempt visitors before they depart for Japan.

Under the system, travellers from the 74 countries and regions that currently enjoy visa-free access would be required to submit travel information online several days before departure. Airlines and cruise operators would be required to deny boarding if authorities determine the traveller should not be permitted entry.

Japan received about 38 million short-term foreign arrivals in 2025, roughly 80% of whom were visa-exempt travellers.

If approved by parliament, the government aims to implement the new fee framework by the end of the next fiscal year in March 2027, while the JESTA system is targeted for introduction by fiscal 2028.

According to the 2026 Global Navy Index , the United States Navy remains the most capable naval force in the world, even as China commands the largest fleet by ship count.

The Global Navy Index evaluates naval strength on a 0–100 scale, measuring overall combat capability rather than simply the number of vessels. The ranking considers factors such as fleet composition, advanced technology and combat effectiveness.

The United States Navy ranks first with a score of 100, reflecting its unmatched ability to operate across multiple oceans simultaneously. While the U.S. does not possess the largest fleet in raw numbers, it maintains a powerful combination of aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines and advanced destroyers that allow it to project power globally.

The American fleet included 20 capital ships and 146 major combatants in 2026, with 241 ships counted in the core fleet measured by the index. Carrier strike groups, supported by long-range missiles and sophisticated surveillance systems, give the U.S. Navy a level of operational reach no other maritime force currently matches.

China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ranks second in overall capability with an index score of 94, but it stands out as the largest navy in the world by number of vessels.

China’s fleet includes 157 major combatants and more than 1,000 vessels in total, a dramatic expansion driven by the country’s rapid shipbuilding programme over the past two decades.

Beijing has invested heavily in modern destroyers, submarines and aircraft carriers as part of a strategy to secure maritime trade routes and strengthen its influence in the South China Sea and the wider Indo-Pacific region.

Russia occupies third place in the ranking with a score of 75. The Russian Navy operates 79 major combatants and nearly 480 vessels overall, supported by a significant submarine fleet.

Although Russia retains formidable capabilities, particularly in nuclear-powered submarines and missile systems, analysts note that parts of its surface fleet are ageing and undergoing gradual modernisation. Moscow continues to focus its naval strategy on areas such as the Arctic, the North Atlantic and the Black Sea, where it seeks to maintain strategic influence.

North Korea’s navy ranks fourth in the index with a score of 72, largely due to the size of its fleet. The Korean People ’s Army Naval Force operates around 385 vessels, including 75 major combatants, though it lacks large capital ships.

Most of these vessels are smaller patrol ships, submarines and coastal defence craft designed for regional operations rather than long-distance power projection.

Several Asian powers are strengthening their maritime forces as strategic competition intensifies in the Indo-Pacific.

Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force ranks fifth, with an index score of 60. The Japanese fleet includes 75 major combatants and around 154 ships, with a strong emphasis on advanced destroyers, missile defence systems and submarine warfare. Japan’s naval strategy focuses heavily on safeguarding vital sea lanes and maintaining stability in East Asia.

India follows in sixth place with a score of 51. The Indian Navy operates two capital ships, 41 major combatants and roughly 290 vessels in total. India has been steadily expanding its naval capabilities to secure the Indian Ocean region, which carries a large portion of the world’s maritime trade.

Other countries appearing in the ranking include South Korea, Turkey, Indonesia and Finland, each maintaining naval forces designed primarily for regional defence and maritime security.

South Korea’s navy operates 52 major combatants and around 155 ships, while Turkey maintains 191 vessels and 30 major combatants, reflecting its strategic position between the Mediterranean and Black Sea.

Indonesia fields a large fleet of 326 vessels, emphasising maritime patrol across its vast archipelago, while Finland maintains a coastal defence navy of around 200 vessels focused on Baltic security.

The above map shows that Japan, South Korea, India and China would be among the biggest losers if the Strait of Hormuz were blocked, reflecting their heavy reliance on crude oil shipped from the Persian Gulf.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea and is widely considered the most critical oil transit chokepoint in the world. According to energy analytics firm Kpler, roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through the strait every day, making it essential to global energy markets.

Any disruption would send shockwaves through global trade, pushing oil prices higher and threatening energy security for countries that rely heavily on Gulf crude.

The waterway is only about 33 kilometres wide at its narrowest point, meaning shipping lanes are particularly vulnerable to military conflict or blockades.

Japan appears to be the most vulnerable major economy in the graphic. Around 75% of its crude oil imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, equivalent to roughly 1.6 to 1.8 million barrels per day.

The Japan Times has reported that the country remains deeply dependent on Middle Eastern oil despite efforts to diversify energy sources since the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Much of Japan’s crude still comes from Gulf producers such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.

Because Japan imports nearly all of its oil, any disruption in the strait could immediately affect fuel prices, electricity costs and industrial production.

South Korea follows closely behind Japan in exposure. Around 65% of its crude oil imports transit the Strait of Hormuz, or approximately 1.5 to 1.7 million barrels per day.

India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, would also face major disruptions. Roughly half of India’s oil imports pass through the strait, amounting to 2.5 to 2.7 million barrels per day, according to energy shipping data cited by Kpler.

India’s dependence on Gulf crude has grown alongside its rapidly expanding economy. Analysts note that energy security remains a key concern for the country as demand for fuel continues to rise.

Reporting from The Better India has highlighted how India has been trying to reduce vulnerability by increasing strategic petroleum reserves and diversifying supply sources, including imports from Russia and the United States.

China, the world’s largest crude oil importer, is also significantly exposed. About 48% of Chinese oil imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, equivalent to around 5.4 to 5.6 million barrels per day.

However, China’s broader supply network gives it slightly more flexibility than other Asian economies. Beijing imports oil from a wide range of producers, including Russia, Brazil and West Africa.

While Asian economies are the most exposed, the entire world would feel the effects of a Hormuz disruption.

Swiss private bank Union Bancaire Privée (UBP) has warned that any closure of the strait could trigger a sharp surge in global oil prices because such a large share of supply flows through the corridor.

UBP analysts say that even a temporary disruption could push oil prices significantly higher and disrupt global supply chains.

The impact would extend far beyond the countries that directly import Gulf crude, affecting everything from transport costs to food prices worldwide.

This narrow waterway between Iran and Oman carried about 13 million barrels a day of crude in 2025 — roughly 31% of global seaborne crude flows — according to energy consultancy Kpler.

Any impact, however, will be uneven across Asia, with the most exposed economies those that rely heavily on imported energy or Middle Eastern supplies.

Thailand

Thailand stands out as one of the most vulnerable economies in the region.

Nomura said Thailand’s net oil imports amount to about 4.7% of gross domestic product (GDP), the highest share in Asia. The Japanese investment bank estimates that every 10% rise in oil prices could worsen Thailand’s current account balance by around 0.5 percentage points of GDP.

Research from Bank of America Global Research paints a similar picture, describing Thailand as having Asia’s largest negative energy trade balance. Net energy imports were estimated at about 6% of GDP in 2025, leaving the country particularly exposed to swings in global oil and gas prices.

Thailand imports roughly $29 billion worth of oil annually, with more than $17 billion sourced from the Middle East.

South Korea

South Korea is also highly exposed due to its near-total reliance on imported fossil fuels.

About 98% of the country’s oil and gas consumption comes from overseas, according to the US Energy Information Administration. Disruptions to shipping routes or sustained price increases therefore pose significant risks to both its economy and financial markets.

Those concerns were reflected in South Korea’s stock market this week. The benchmark Kospi index plunged more than 12% in early trading on Wednesday amid fears that escalating conflict in the Middle East could disrupt global energy supplies and trade.

Shipping and logistics companies were among the hardest hit as tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz slowed sharply.

India

India is also considered vulnerable because of its heavy reliance on imported energy.

Nomura identified India among the Asian economies most exposed to higher oil prices, warning that sustained increases could significantly raise the country’s import bill.

In addition to higher crude costs, India could also face pressure from rising LNG prices as Asia competes with Europe for limited supplies if shipments through the Strait of Hormuz remain constrained.

Philippines

The Philippines faces particular exposure through its reliance on Middle Eastern crude.

Bank of America Global Research estimates that about 95% of the country’s oil imports come from the Middle East, making it one of the most dependent economies in the region on Gulf energy supplies.

Any disruption to shipping routes or sustained surge in prices could therefore translate quickly into higher domestic fuel costs and inflation.

Japan

Japan remains highly dependent on energy imports from the Middle East.

According to Bank of America Global Research, about 94% of Japan’s oil imports originate from the region. Analysts warn that supply disruptions or sustained price increases could therefore significantly affect Japan’s energy costs.

Nomura added that Japan typically maintains only two to four weeks of liquefied natural gas (LNG) stockpiles, limiting its ability to absorb prolonged supply disruptions.

Vietnam

Vietnam is also heavily reliant on Middle Eastern energy supplies.

Bank of America Global Research estimates that about 88% of the country’s oil imports come from the region, making it vulnerable to any disruption to shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Who could gain in Asia?

Not all Asian economies would be hit equally.

Malaysia, for example, could see higher government revenues as an oil and gas exporter if prices remain elevated.

In a social media post, she said she had hoped the gifts would be “beneficial” to lawmakers. 

“We thought of items that would be useful for activities as members of parliament, but with no time to select appropriate items for each individual…we decided to provide catalog gifts so that each member could choose items beneficial to their political activities,” Takaichi said.

Speaking in the upper chamber of the Diet, Japan’s parliament, Takaichi insisted there was “no legal problem” with the distribution. 

She said the catalogues were funded not by state subsidies but by the LDP branch in Nara Prefecture’s No. 2 constituency, which she heads. According to her explanation, the total cost amounted to roughly ¥9.45 million ($60,700), including tax and delivery fees.

This row erupted after opposition lawmaker Masayo Tanabu of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan questioned the value of the gifts, their funding source and their purpose. 

Against the law?

Japan’s Political Funds Control Act prohibits donations connected to the political activities of candidates and bars contributions to individual politicians. 

Although, Takaichi maintained that the catalogues constituted permissible political spending by a local party branch, rather than personal donations. 

She also said she had considered hosting celebratory dinners but opted for catalogues due to scheduling pressures, including preparations for a policy speech and diplomatic engagements.

However, the episode has revived broader concerns about money and politics within the LDP. 

A series of past disclosures involving gift vouchers and opaque funding practices under previous administrations has already fuelled public scepticism about the party’s financial culture.

Tanabu drew comparisons with a controversy last year, when former prime minister Shigeru Ishiba apologised for distributing gift vouchers worth ¥100,000 ($640) each to 15 LDP lawmakers.

Additionally, former prime minister Fumio Kishida reportedly distributed gift vouchers worth ¥100,000 yen ($640) each at a gathering with parliamentary vice-ministers while he was in office.

Among those named were:

The companies span aerospace, shipbuilding, heavy industry and defense-linked manufacturing, which are sectors central to Japan’s military modernization drive.

China’s commerce ministry said the measures are aimed at curbing Japan’s “remilitarisation” and nuclear ambitions and described them as “legitimate, reasonable and lawful.” Tokyo called the move “absolutely unacceptable” and said it had lodged a formal protest.

Why this matters

The export controls are the latest step in a widening economic confrontation triggered by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks in November that Japan could intervene militarily in the event of a Taiwan emergency.

Since then:

Strategic backdrop

Japan has approved a record ¥9 trillion ($57 billion) defense budget and is moving to acquire “counterstrike” capabilities, marking a significant shift from its post-war pacifist posture. China views those steps as destabilizing.

It remains unclear whether rare earth minerals — critical to advanced manufacturing and defense supply chains — are included in the latest restrictions. 

Uncertain global trade

The escalation comes as global trade tensions again rise.

U.S. President Donald Trump has imposed a 15% tariff on all U.S. imports. This, after the Supreme Court struck down his “reciprocal” tariffs, which were found unconstitutional for lacking congressional approval.

Around 10,000 people had gathered for the late-night climax, during which the lights are extinguished and sacred wooden talismans are hurled into the crowd.

The festival, which dates back more than 500 years and is designated a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, is a tightly choreographed ritual . 

In the final ceremony, priests throw bundles of small wooden charms into the darkened temple hall, followed by two larger sacred sticks known as “shingi.” Thousands of men, dressed only in a traditional loincloth called a “fundoshi,” surge forward in a dense mass, pushing and grappling to seize one of the prized objects. 

The two men who manage to secure the shingi are declared the year’s “lucky men,” believed to receive a year of good fortune and prosperity.

While it has been a cherished tradition in Japan, the festival’s combination of darkness, noise and extreme crowding has long raised safety concerns, particularly as participants pack shoulder to shoulder in a confined space .

In 2007, one participant died after being crushed.

Japan has several ‘naked’ festivals

Saidaiji Eyo is one of several “naked festivals” held across Japan during the coldest months of the year. These rituals combine Shinto and Buddhist elements and are rooted in ideas of purification: participants douse themselves in icy water and strip down to symbolise a return to an untainted state before petitioning the gods.

In northern Japan, the Somin-sai at Kokusekiji in Iwate long saw men battle for a sack of amulets believed to ward off disease and disaster. After centuries of observance, the temple announced its final full edition in 2024, citing dwindling local support.

Further south, the Hayama-gomori at Kuronuma Shrine in Fukushima remains a more secretive rite. Participants undergo days of abstinence and cold-water purification before nocturnal ceremonies and an oracle’s prophecy for the coming harvest.

For devotees, these festivals express communal endurance and spiritual renewal. Yet as crowds swell and rural organisers struggle with ageing populations, Japan faces a delicate balance between preserving tradition and preventing tragedy.

The decline was driven largely by a steep fall in arrivals from mainland China amid simmering political tensions and travel disruptions.

The tourism agency said the timing of the Lunar New Year holiday weighed on travel, as it fell in mid-February this year rather than late January in 2025. 

It also cited a Chinese government advisory warning against travel to Japan and reduced flight frequencies.

Tensions have escalated since November, when Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said a Chinese attack on Taiwan could constitute a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan, potentially triggering a military response.

Beijing has criticised the remarks. Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at the Munich Security Conference that forces in Japan were seeking to “revive militarism,” while China’s foreign ministry said dialogue must be based on mutual respect.

Tourism flows had already shown strain in December, when arrivals from mainland China fell 45% to around 330,000.

Trump said the projects would “revitalise the industrial base”, create “hundreds of thousands of great American jobs”, and strengthen the U.S. national and economic security “like never before.” 

According to the U.S. Department of Commerce , three major energy and industrial projects have been confirmed as part of the opening wave of investment.

Where Japan’s money will go

The largest is a $33 billion natural gas power facility near Portsmouth, Ohio. With a planned capacity of 9.2 gigawatts, the Portsmouth Powered Land project would rank among the biggest gas-fired generation developments in the world.

The plant will be operated by SB Energy, a subsidiary of Japan’s SoftBank. The project is designed to provide large-scale, dispatchable electricity to support industrial expansion and grid reliability.

Trump highlighted the Ohio development in his post, describing it as the largest gas power plant “in history” and crediting tariffs as central to unlocking projects of such scale.

In Texas, a separate $2.1 billion deepwater crude oil export terminal is planned in Brazoria County and the Gulf of America. The Texas GulfLink facility will be operated by Sentinel Midstream.

At full capacity, the terminal is expected to generate between $20 billion and $30 billion in annual US crude exports, potentially totalling $400 billion to $600 billion over 20 years, the Commerce Department said. 

The third investment is an approximately $600 million high-pressure, high-temperature synthetic diamond grit facility in Georgia, to be operated by Element Six.

Diamond grit and powder are essential in semiconductor, automotive and oil and gas manufacturing, valued for their extreme hardness and durability. US officials say boosting domestic supply is strategically important for advanced manufacturing and national security .

Together, the projects signal Japan’s financial commitment to anchoring capital in key American energy and industrial sectors, as Washington and Tokyo — and Takaichi and Trump — deepen ties.

“Including, far in Asia,” he replied. “I was very honored to see that a very wonderful Prime Minister in Japan won by a landslide. I think she was going to win, but she won by just about the biggest vote ever in Japan. And she attributed my endorsement for that.”

Trump’s remarks followed his public endorsement of Takaichi ahead of Sunday’s snap election. 

On Truth Social, he wrote that she has “already proven to be a strong, powerful, and wise leader… one that truly loves her country,” adding: “She will not let the people of Japan down!”

Takaichi, who became Japan’s first female prime minister after taking the helm of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had openly courted Trump as Tokyo sought stability in its relationship with Washington amid trade tensions.

Before her win, she said: “I am sincerely grateful to President Donald J. Trump for his warm words… The potential of our Alliance is LIMITLESS.”

After securing victory, she again thanked him directly: “Thank you, @realDonaldTrump, for your kind and encouraging message of congratulations. I look forward to working closely with you, Donald, to advance peace, strength, and prosperity for our two nations.”

Trump, without naming her in an earlier post, hailed Japan’s “first female Prime Minister, a highly respected person of great wisdom and strength.”

Whether Trump’s endorsement proved decisive is unclear.

But Takaichi’s nationalist platform and hardline rhetoric on immigration have drawn comparisons to the U.S. president — reinforcing the perception, at least among supporters, that Trump’s political brand now reaches well beyond America’s borders.

Under the proposal , consultation fees for patients will rise modestly, including a new inflation-related surcharge. Basic hospitalization fees will also increase, alongside higher out-of-pocket costs for hospital meals and utilities for long-term patients. 

The changes will be introduced in stages beginning this year.

One major goal of the fee increase is to help medical institutions cope with inflation. Rising energy, food and equipment costs have squeezed hospital finances, particularly smaller facilities in rural areas.

Another priority is boosting wages for healthcare workers, as existing surcharges that allow hospitals to collect additional fees if they raise nurses’ pay will be expanded, and institutions that increase salaries for younger doctors will also become eligible. 

The overall revision will increase medical service fees by an average of 3.09% over two years, while official drug prices will be cut by 0.87%. 

By adjusting service and pharmaceutical costs separately, the government aims to balance financial sustainability with patient access.

Old population

The reform also reflects structural pressures from Japan’s demographics. With one of the world ’s oldest populations, demand for chronic care, long-term hospitalization and complex treatments continues to grow. Policymakers are using fee incentives to guide the system’s direction without sharply increasing total spending.

To improve quality and efficiency, the review promotes telemedicine and digital tools, including support for artificial intelligence , voice recognition and online consultations. Hospitals performing advanced procedures such as robot-assisted surgeries will also see fee adjustments.

At the same time, authorities are tightening rules around certain practices. Facilities that fail to reduce the use of physical restraints may face lower payments, while new fees will encourage hospitals to accept emergency patients from depopulated regions.

These figures reflect holdings by foreign governments, banks and institutional investors, and they provide a window into global economic ties with the world ’s largest debtor nation.

Here’s the breakdown of the top 10 foreign holders of U.S. debt (in billion US dollars):

U.S. Treasury securities are widely viewed as safe , liquid assets. Governments and investors around the world buy them to store foreign exchange reserves, manage currency stability and diversify portfolios. Foreign purchases help keep U.S. borrowing costs lower by ensuring steady demand for government debt.

Yet these foreign holdings have not grown as fast as the overall U.S. debt stack. Congressional Research Service reports show that although total foreign ownership in dollar terms has increased over recent years, it now represents a smaller percentage of overall U.S. debt than it did a decade ago.

She said the planned changes would focus on a more proactive fiscal approach, a major reinforcement of national security policy and stronger government intelligence capabilities.

Takaichi added that her government would move quickly to capitalise on the electoral victory. “We have no time to linger in the afterglow of victory. We will promptly convene a special session of the Diet and work to pass next year’s budget and related bills as quickly as possible,” she said.

Subject to parliamentary approval, the prime minister said she intends to travel to the United States next month for what she described as “in-depth” talks with President Donald Trump.

She also reaffirmed Tokyo’s commitment to strengthening regional and global partnerships, saying Japan would deepen cooperation with the United States, South Korea, the Philippines and Australia, as well as with Italy, the United Kingdom and countries in the Global South .

The election outcome gives Takaichi’s coalition at least two-thirds of seats in the powerful lower house, a threshold that would allow it to push legislation through with relative ease and potentially pursue constitutional changes.

The scale of the win clears the way for Takaichi to push through legislation with minimal resistance, after she called a snap election just weeks into her premiership. It also allows her to override the upper house, which remains outside LDP control.

Market reaction was almost instantaneous. 

Japan’s Nikkei index hit a fresh record, rising nearly 4% to close above 56,000 points, as investors welcomed the prospect of political stability and faster policy decisions.

The rally spread across Asia, with gains in South Korea, Hong Kong and Australia , underscoring the regional impact of Japan’s election outcome.

Takaichi has promised a ¥21 trillion ($134 billion) stimulus package and a two-year suspension of Japan’s food sales tax, measures aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures but which have raised concerns about funding.

The election result also drew praise from U.S. President Donald Trump, who congratulated Takaichi on what he called a “historic” victory and applauded her conservative leadership.

Trump said Japan’s voters had delivered a clear mandate, adding that he looked forward to working with Takaichi on security and economic issues.

“She is a highly respected and very popular Leader. Sanae’s bold and wise decision to call for an Election paid off big time,” the U.S. president wrote on Truth Social.

“Sanae: It was my Honor to Endorse you and your Coalition,” he added. 

They said the change is meant to adjust to " international standards.” 

Since the SDF was established in 1954, Japan has deliberately used rank names that differ from those of its pre-1945 military. The distinction was designed to signal a clean break from the wartime past and reinforce the force’s defensive role under Japan’s pacifist constitution.

Under the current system, Japanese rank names do not match the old imperial terminology, even though their English translations already correspond to standard military ranks used overseas. 

For example, the SDF rank equivalent to a colonel is “issa,” or “first field officer,” which replaced the imperial-era term “taisa.” While the Japanese titles were changed after the war , their English equivalents have long matched international military ranks.

Any change to rank names would require amendments to the Self-Defense Forces Law and approval by parliament.

Pusback

Inside the Defence Ministry and the SDF, however, the proposal has been met with scepticism .

Some officials noted that reviving terminology associated with the imperial military risks complicating recruitment efforts and unsettling public perceptions, especially among younger generations.

Particular resistance has focused on lower enlisted ranks such as ittohei (private first class) and nitohei (private). Critics argue that these terms carry outdated or negative connotations tied to Japan’s wartime army.

What’s more unsettling is that the debate has also drawn attention from Japan’s neighbours. 

China and North Korea have criticised the proposal as further evidence of Tokyo drifting away from its postwar pacifist stance.

Japan’s chef de mission, Hidehito Ito, said a new monitoring system would aim to prevent athletes from being exposed to harmful content by having specialists track abusive posts in real time. They will subsequently ask social media platforms to remove the material.

The task force will consist of 22 staff members, with 16 based in Japan and six in Italy, supported by lawyers in both locations. The split setup is intended to ensure 24-hour coverage across time zones.

Ito said the JOC wants to act quickly before abusive messages spread or reach athletes directly, adding that lessons from Paris underscored the need for stronger, more proactive measures.

Japan’s heightened focus on online abuse reflects broader changes at home. 

Since the 2020 death of wrestler and reality television star Hana Kimura following cyberbullying, authorities have strengthened penalties for online harassment, including prison terms and fines for platform operators that fail to act promptly.

The push mirrors concerns raised by international sports bodies in recent years. 

A study published by World Athletics following the Tokyo 2020 Olympics found widespread abuse directed at athletes on social media, particularly during major competitions.

Conducted with Threat Matrix, the study analysed more than 240,000 tweets linked to 161 Olympic athletes over a four-week period in 2021, using artificial intelligence tools to identify discriminatory language, threats and abusive imagery.

Of the athletes targeted, the vast majority were women, who accounted for 87% of identified abusive posts. Two Black female athletes alone received nearly two-thirds of all detected abuse.

Sexist and racist messages made up more than half of the abuse identified, raising concerns about the psychological toll on athletes and the potential impact on performance during high-pressure events.

World Athletics said the results highlighted gaps in existing safeguards on social media platforms and underscored the need for closer cooperation between sporting bodies and technology companies.

For Japan, those findings reinforce the urgency of intervention. 

Officials say the Milan Cortina approach will be adjusted as the Games progress, with regular communication between the JOC and the IOC to respond to emerging risks.

The friendly rally came after Koizumi suggested the game on learning that Ahn plays table tennis regularly, turning a tightly choreographed diplomatic visit into a moment of informal rapport.

Koizumi proposed a simple challenge — to keep the ball in play for 10 exchanges — but the opening rally fell just short. A second attempt stretched longer, drawing smiles and encouragement from both sides.

After four short games, the impromptu contest ended in a 2-2 draw, with Koizumi praising Ahn’s technique and joking that he would need more practice.

The South Korean defence ministry later said the exchange reflected growing camaraderie between the two leaders, adding that the relaxed atmosphere carried over from their formal talks.

Productive talks

In a joint statement, the ministers agreed to resume bilateral search and rescue exercises between the two navies, reviving drills that have been suspended for nine years.

They also committed to deepening defence cooperation through regular ministerial talks and annual reciprocal visits, as security concerns in the region continue to mount.

The meeting marked Ahn’s first official visit to Japan since taking office, and comes amid a broader thaw in relations between the two neighbours after years of friction rooted in historical disputes.

In their joint statement, the ministers reaffirmed support for the “complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula” and underscored the importance of close coordination with the United States .

While North Korea was not named directly, Seoul later said the talks included agreement to strengthen bilateral and trilateral cooperation to address Pyongyang’s advancing nuclear and missile capabilities.

The use of the phrase “ denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula ” echoed language favoured in past diplomatic efforts, as South Korea seeks to keep channels open to the North despite stalled dialogue.

The ping-pong match follows other recent displays of what officials have described as “soft diplomacy” between Tokyo and Seoul, including a joint drum performance by the two countries’ leaders earlier this month.

In response to the disruptions, China’s main carriers – Air China, China Eastern Airlines and China Southern Airlines – have introduced flexible policies for Japan-bound travellers. 

Passengers holding eligible tickets purchased before January 26 can change flights once without fees or request refunds, with the measures covering services from late March to October to cities including Tokyo, Osaka and Okinawa.

The move follows warnings from China’s foreign ministry and comes after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested her country could intervene militarily if China attempted to invade Taiwan. 

Beijing responded with a travel advisory discouraging visits to Japan and limited cultural exchanges, prompting airlines to recalibrate capacity, particularly on leisure-oriented routes.

Effects of the diplomatic fallout have already reverberated across the two Asian giants. 

Chinese arrivals to Japan fell around 45% in December to roughly 330,000 visitors compared with the previous year. Despite the drop, Japan’s tourism sector reached a record 42.7 million foreign arrivals in 2025, buoyed by travellers from other countries.

China, the world’s largest tourism market, has traditionally been Japan’s largest source of inbound tourists, with visitors spending significantly more than other nationalities. In the first nine months of 2025, almost 7.5 million Chinese tourists arrived.

The February cancellations illustrate how geopolitical friction can ripple through the travel sector, with diplomatic disputes directly impacting commercial flights and tourism flows between two of Asia’s largest economies.

Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), which operates the plant, said an alarm from the monitoring system was triggered during the restart process, prompting officials to halt operations and investigate the cause.

“We don’t expect this to be solved within a day or two,” plant superintendent Takeyuki Inagaki told a news conference. “There is no telling at the moment how long it will take.”

TEPCO said the alarm was linked to malfunctioning electrical equipment. As a precaution, operators reinserted the control rods, devices used to slow or stop the nuclear reaction, in a planned and safe manner. The company said the reactor remains stable and there has been no release of radioactive material.

The restart had already been delayed earlier in the week after a separate issue involving the control rods was detected, though that problem was resolved on Sunday.

Kashiwazaki-Kariwa is the largest nuclear power plant in the world by capacity and has seven reactors, though only one was being prepared for restart. It is the first plant operated by TEPCO to attempt a restart since the Fukushima disaster, which led Japan to shut down most of its nuclear facilities.

Japan is now seeking to revive nuclear power as it aims to cut fossil fuel use, meet growing energy demand, including from artificial intelligence and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

However, public opposition remains strong in Niigata. A recent survey found that about 60 per cent of local residents oppose restarting the plant, citing safety concerns and the site’s location near active seismic faults.

TEPCO said it will focus on identifying the cause of the alarm before deciding when restart efforts can resume.

An analysis of 119 seawater samples showed iodine-129 concentrations in the West Philippine Sea — part of the South China Sea that sits within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone — were around 1.5 to 1.7 times higher than in other Philippine waters.

Researchers said the isotope did not originate locally but likely travelled from further north, pointing to the Yellow Sea as the most probable source.

Previous Chinese studies have linked elevated iodine-129 levels in the Yellow Sea to decades-old nuclear weapons tests and nuclear fuel reprocessing in Europe, with radioactive residues accumulating in northeastern China’s soil and river systems.

From there, scientists believe the isotope was carried into the Yellow Sea and transported southwards through ocean currents, including the Yellow Sea Coastal Current and the Chinese Coastal Current.

While further oceanographic modelling is needed to confirm the exact pathway, the findings suggest radioactive materials can travel thousands of kilometres across national boundaries through marine circulation.

The researchers stressed that the current iodine-129 levels pose no known risk to human health or the marine environment , noting the isotope’s extremely low radioactivity at the concentrations detected.

Instead, they said the discovery highlights iodine-129’s value as a scientific tracer. 

This study highlights the need for stronger international monitoring of radioactive substances in shared waters, particularly in politically sensitive regions where environmental data can carry wider strategic implications.

The research was conducted by experts from the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute and the University of Tokyo, with funding from Philippine government science agencies.

That is the central message from the International Monetary Fund’s latest World Economic Outlook , which projects wide disparities in GDP growth across G20 economies this year.

A visual ranking of projected annual real GDP growth rates places India firmly at the top, followed by Indonesia and China, while major advanced economies such as Japan, Germany, and Italy sit at the bottom of the table.

India Leads the G20 Growth Rankings

India is forecast to grow by 6.2% in 2026 , making it the fastest-growing economy in the G20. The IMF attributes this momentum to strong domestic demand, sustained public investment, and the country’s expanding manufacturing and services sectors.

Indonesia follows with a projected growth of 4.9%, reinforcing Southeast Asia’s role as a key engine of global expansion. China, despite ongoing structural challenges and a cooling property sector, is still expected to post a solid 4.2% growth rate, keeping it among the top performers.

Argentina and Saudi Arabia are both projected to grow by 4%, reflecting commodity-linked recoveries and policy adjustments aimed at stabilising their economies.

Middle performers: Growth, but at a slower pace

Türkiye is forecast to grow by 3.7%, supported by consumption and post-election economic recalibration. Australia and the United States are both expected to expand by 2.1%, signalling resilience but also highlighting the limits imposed by tight monetary policy and cooling labour markets.

Brazil’s growth is projected at 1.9%, while South Korea is expected to record 1.8%. Canada and Mexico are both forecast at 1.5%, closely tied to trends in US demand and trade conditions.

Europe and Japan lag behind

The outlook is notably weaker for much of Europe. The European Union as a bloc is projected to grow by just 1.4%, with the UK slightly lower at 1.3%. France and Germany are both forecast at 0.9%, while Italy trails at 0.8%.

Japan sits at the bottom of the G20 rankings, with growth projected at just 0.6%. Ageing demographics, weak productivity growth, and persistent inflationary pressures continue to weigh on the country’s economic prospects.

Russia is projected to grow by 1%, reflecting ongoing geopolitical pressures and structural constraints.

Takaichi, who used to play in a heavy metal band, arranged the drumming event after Lee mentioned at last year’s APEC summit that he wanted to learn how to play the drums.

In a notable policy change effective 1 January 2026, China removed a three-decade VAT exemption on contraceptive drugs and devices, including condoms and birth control pills, imposing a standard 13% tax in a bid to address its persistent population decline. The move, part of broader measures to boost birth rates, follows years of falling fertility and reinforces Beijing’s prioritisation of family support policies alongside earlier childcare subsidies and pro-marriage initiatives. Officials hope that framing childbearing as socially and economically supported will stabilise demographics in the world’s most populous economy.

China accuses the US of ‘blatant interference’ after Trump claims Venezuela oil

China’s Foreign Ministry criticised the United States on Wednesday, accusing Washington of “blatant interference in Venezuela’s internal affairs” after President Donald Trump announced that up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil would be transferred to the United States for sale, a move Beijing says violates Venezuela’s sovereign rights over its natural resources. China insists Caracas has “full permanent sovereignty” over its oil and called the US actions a breach of international norms, amid broader tensions over control of Venezuelan energy exports. The dispute comes as the US has also seized Venezuela-linked tankers and eased sanctions to redirect crude flows, triggering diplomatic pushback from Beijing and other global partners.

China bans some exports to Japan after PM’s Taiwan remarks

China has imposed immediate restrictions on exports of certain rare earths and other dual-use items to Japan, escalating tensions after the Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi warned that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan would threaten Japan’s survival. Beijing said the curbs cover goods with both civilian and military uses, including materials critical to electronics, aerospace and defence, though it did not specify individual products. The move could have significant consequences for Japan, which sourced around 63% of its rare earth imports from China in 2024.

Cambodia extradites alleged scam kingpin Chen Zhi to China

Cambodia has arrested and extradited to China tycoon Chen Zhi, accused of leading a major online scam network and wanted by US authorities on related charges. The Cambodian government said Chen, whose citizenship was revoked last month, was handed over at China’s request after a months-long investigation. US and UK officials have accused him of running a transnational fraud operation that scammed victims worldwide and exploited trafficked workers, part of a regional surge in online scam centres across Southeast Asia.

China sanctions two more Taiwanese cabinet ministers

Beijing has sanctioned Taiwan’s Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang and Education Minister Cheng Ying-yao, adding them to its list of what it calls “stubborn Taiwan independence figures” for actions it says promote separatism. The measures bar the two ministers and their families from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, and ban companies linked to them from operating in the mainland.

Caught off the coast of Oma in northern Japan, an area renowned for high-quality tuna, the fish quickly became a focal point of attention for both traders and diners. Restaurateurs say the high prices paid at the first auction of the year are driven not only by the quality of the catch, but also by prestige and the belief that securing the top lot brings good fortune — while also serving as a powerful draw for customers eager to sample the most talked-about tuna of the season.

The move was confirmed this month by the Tokyo metropolitan government and the Tokyo Zoological Park Society.

Pandas first arrived in Japan following the normalisation of diplomatic ties between Tokyo and Beijing, quickly becoming cultural ambassadors and a powerful draw for visitors. 

With bilateral relations strained, however, there is no indication that China will approve a new loan to replace the departing pair.

At Ueno Zoological Gardens in Tokyo, the impending farewell has already prompted a surge in interest. The zoo has imposed daily limits on panda visitors and sharply reduced viewing times in an effort to manage crowds and ensure the animals’ welfare during their final weeks on display.

The twins can be seen until January 25, though access is tightly controlled. Reservations are being handled online, with some dates allocated on a first-come basis and others decided by lottery, reflecting demand that far exceeds available slots.

Zoo officials say the focus is now on ensuring a smooth and healthy transfer. Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, born at Ueno in June 2021, will undergo a quarantine period ahead of their return, after which they are expected to join China’s national panda conservation programme.

Their parents, Ri Ri and Shin Shin, were also loaned from China and have since been returned, leaving the twins as Japan’s only pandas. 

Despite appeals by Tokyo and national government officials to extend the arrangement or secure a replacement, Beijing has yet to respond.

Conservation experts warn that a prolonged absence of pandas could have broader implications. Advocates argue that the animals play a unique role in fostering public interest in wildlife protection and environmental conservation.

The departure is also expected to be felt beyond the zoo gates. Local tourism groups say pandas have long been a cornerstone of Ueno’s visitor economy , attracting domestic and overseas tourists in large numbers.

The Japanese government has announced a $13.8 million humanitarian aid package for Yemen, targeting urgent needs such as food security, healthcare, and essential services. The support comes as the country continues to face one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with millions affected by conflict, displacement, and malnutrition. Japan reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners to ensure effective aid delivery and support Yemen’s long-term stability.

Intense political efforts aim to ease tensions in Eastern Yemen

Yemen is experiencing increased political engagemen t to ease tensions in its eastern provinces, where rival forces have competed for influence amid fragile security. President Rashad Al-Alimi emphasised that strengthening state institutions is the top priority, describing effective governance as key to stability and lasting peace. The efforts come as local and regional actors push dialogue to prevent escalation in Hadramout and Al-Mahra, where recent frictions have raised concerns over security and cohesion.

Yemen’s future after the STC’s eastward expansion

Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council (STC) is expanding its influence in the eastern governorates of Hadramout and al-Mahra, underscoring the fragmented nature of the country’s decade-long conflict. The advances highlight how power in Yemen now extends beyond the government–Houthi divide, with multiple de facto authorities competing over security and resources. Backed by a regional power, the STC has emerged as the dominant force in the south and parts of the east, even as the government struggles to assert unified control and the economy deteriorates. Against this backdrop, President Rashad al-Alimi described the reported suspension of IMF activities as a warning sign of the political and economic costs of escalating tensions in the east.

Al-Arada discusses latest developments with the U.S. ambassador

President Rashad Mohammed al-Alimi met with U.S. Ambassador Steven Fagin to discuss bilateral relations, recent developments in Yemen’s eastern governorates, and U.S. support for government reforms. The talks also covered counterterrorism cooperation and efforts to deter the Iran-backed Houthis. Al-Alimi praised strong U.S. support for Yemen, including the designation of the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation and backing for economic and political reform initiatives.

UN envoy urges de-escalation in Yemen’s eastern provinces

UN Special Envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg has urged immediate de-escalation in the eastern provinces of Hadramout and Al-Mahra, citing concerns over rising instability and its potential impact on local communities and regional security. Speaking in Riyadh, he called on all parties to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue, stressing that stability in the east is essential to advancing Yemen’s broader peace process.

Guo described Japan’s comments as unfounded and hostile, accusing Tokyo of smearing China’s legitimate defence development. He said China’s record on peace and security compares favourably with that of other major powers and argued that Japan’s own history of military aggression undermines its credibility on such matters.

“As a country with a history of aggression, Japan has no right to comment on China’s defence expenditure,” Guo said. He added that the growth of China’s defence budget is lawful and justified, aimed at addressing security challenges, protecting national interests and fulfilling the responsibilities of a major country on the global stage.

The exchange comes amid renewed diplomatic tensions between Beijing and Tokyo. On Monday, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi reiterated Japan’s position on Taiwan during a parliamentary session, referencing the 1972 Joint Statement that established diplomatic relations between the two countries. Motegi said the Taiwan issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue.

China rejected that interpretation, accusing Japan of selectively citing the agreement and of attempting to create obstacles on sensitive issues while misleading the public and avoiding responsibility.

In an interview with London-based architecture magazine Dezeen , Fujimoto said that despite the Ring’s scale, sophistication and global attention, its timber is now largely destined for fuel.

The Grand Ring opened in April and closed with the expo in October. Built as a temporary landmark, it combined modular construction with traditional Japanese joinery and covered more than 61,000 square metres. 

Demolition began in early December, and only a 200-metre stretch is set to remain. 

Fujimoto said political leaders have effectively decided that around 70% of the timber will be chipped and burned, with roughly 20% potentially reused in smaller projects and just 10% preserved in place.

He described burning the wood as “the worst thing to do,” arguing that Japanese policymakers still lag behind global expectations on sustainability. He had hoped the Ring’s engineering would encourage authorities to keep it for longer. 

The structure was assembled using Nuki joints — traditional slots that allow timber beams to be removed, replaced, transported and rebuilt with relative ease. The technique has kept temples standing for centuries, and Fujimoto designed the Ring with the same long-term potential in mind. 

With a protective canopy and regular maintenance, he believes it could have lasted 50 to 100 years.

Yet the expo site was always planned as a temporary landscape, and officials appear determined to clear it quickly for redevelopment. Burning the timber is the fastest and cheapest option, even if it undermines the Ring’s sustainable design. 

Fujimoto said he disagreed with the basic policy of dismantling the entire expo venue, calling it a missed opportunity for smarter long-term planning. Still, he emphasised that his responsibility was to deliver the best possible architecture within the constraints he was given.

The Grand Ring is now undergoing the final stages of demolition — its vast timber frame reduced piece by piece, much of it soon to become fuel.

Full-scale operations are planned to begin by the end of 2025.

The project was created to address two growing pressures on Japan’s maritime sector: a shortage of ship crews and the persistent risk of accidents caused by human error. As officials see it, autonomous navigation offers a way to maintain services safely despite declining manpower.

The Olympia Dream Seto is operated by Kokusai Ryobi Ferry Co., based in the western city of Okayama. The route links a port in Okayama Prefecture with Shodoshima, an island in neighbouring Kagawa Prefecture. This is the first ship to receive Japanese government certification as an “autonomous ship.”

At the heart of the system is a network of sensors that continuously recognise surrounding conditions at sea. These allow the ferry to automatically adjust its course, avoid obstacles and control both the rudder and propeller with minimal human input.

A function enabling fully automatic operation under specific conditions has been installed as part of the autonomous ship project. Despite this, operators emphasise safety features, with manual control able to take over immediately in the event of danger or unexpected conditions.

Familiarisation voyages will include both regular passengers and system personnel. These early trips are intended to confirm the vessel’s performance before commercial service begins.

The Nippon Foundation launched the autonomous ship programme in 2020, bringing together domestic shipping, shipbuilding, communications, and trading companies. It aims to develop technologies that could eventually be adopted more widely across the industry.

As part of the same initiative, three additional vessels are scheduled to enter commercial service using autonomous navigation technology by the end of March 2026. These ships will expand Japan’s early foray into self-navigating passenger transport.

Mitsuyuki Unno, the foundation’s executive director, said Japan’s rapid progress gives it a strong position as global standards take shape. 

“I think Japan is ahead of the rest of the world,” he said. “We hope to contribute to the creation of international rules as a leader.”

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele participated in the Western Day celebration, underscoring the cultural importance of the event and its role in strengthening provincial and national identity. His attendance signals the government’s continued effort to honour provincial traditions while reinforcing unity across the Solomon Islands. The celebration offered a platform for community leaders and residents to showcase their history, achievements and aspirations, placing Western Province at the centre of national cultural conversation.

Prime Minister acknowledges Western Province’s vital role in national growth and unity

In a separate address, Prime Minister Manele recognised Western Province as a key contributor to the Solomon Islands’ economic development and national cohesion. He highlighted the province’s strategic importance, emphasising its contributions to fisheries, tourism and inter-island commerce. The acknowledgement reflects ongoing government priorities to support provincial development and encourage inclusive national growth. It also signals the administration’s intention to maintain strong engagement with the country’s largest and most economically active provinces as part of its broader unity agenda.

Prime Minister Manele farewells Australian High Commissioner H.E. Hilton

Prime Minister Manele formally farewelled outgoing Australian High Commissioner H.E. Hilton, marking a significant diplomatic moment in the Solomon Islands–Australia relationship. The farewell underscores the importance of bilateral ties, with Australia remaining one of the Solomon Islands’ closest development and security partners. Discussions during the farewell highlighted cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, policing, disaster preparedness and education. The transition comes at a time when Pacific diplomacy is intensifying, and maintaining strong relations with traditional partners remains essential for the Solomon Islands’ strategic and economic interests.

PM Manele commends recipients of Japan’s Royal Decorations and celebrates enduring Solomon Islands–Japan partnership

Prime Minister Manele also extended commendation to the recipients of Japan’s Royal Decorations, celebrating individuals whose contributions have strengthened ties between the Solomon Islands and Japan. In his remarks, the prime minister emphasised the enduring nature of the partnership, which includes cooperation in infrastructure, maritime security, education and health. The recognition of the honourees reflects the broader diplomatic respect between both nations and Japan’s ongoing role in the Solomon Islands’ development trajectory. This moment further reinforces the country’s commitment to nurturing long-term partnerships that support national resilience and growth.

First launched in 2016 and initially mocked as “foolish,” the device has proved effective after rental trials, with around 330 now deployed across Japan.

Its infrared sensors activate when animals approach, triggering flashing lights and a rotating mix of 50 sounds, including wolf cries and human voices. The audio was built using artificial intelligence and copyright-free material to ensure variety so that bears do not become used to a single warning.

Ohta Seiki Co, the Hokkaido company behind the Monster Wolf, said inquiries for the mechanical animal have tripled, including from overseas. One request from India even asked whether the device might work on elephants. 

Company president Yuji Ota said bears typically avoid anything that signals human activity. The firm is now developing mobile and portable versions to help residents fend off bears during hikes or in remote communities.

This, after Japan’s bear problem took a serious and deadly turn this year. 

At least 13 people have been killed and more than 100 injured since April, according to the Ministry of Environment, the highest toll since records began in 2006. Authorities in northern prefectures have deployed troops, drones, and early-warning systems as sightings climb sharply.

Both brown bears, found mainly in Hokkaido, and Asiatic black bears, more common in the densely populated mainland, have been involved in the attacks. Experts say black bear encounters are more frequent due to their wider distribution, while brown bear attacks tend to be more severe because of their size and strength. 

Bear encounters in Akita alone have risen sixfold this year, with more than 50 people attacked since May, often in residential areas. In one November case, a bear injured two women in Gojome Town after one tried to help the other. Other attacks have occurred in farms and even inside a supermarket in central Japan.

The United States warned citizens of increased bear activity near populated zones, noting the temporary closure of Sapporo’s Maruyama Park after a sighting. The United Kingdom advised travellers to avoid forested areas unless accompanied and to properly dispose of food waste.

With communities overwhelmed, some officials say the situation has surpassed their capacity to cope. Akita’s governor warned that exhaustion among local responders “is reaching its limit.”

Whether a robo-wolf can succeed where electric fences and patrols have struggled remains to be seen. But for now, Japan is hoping that a mechanical monster might help keep the real ones away.

“The radar illumination in this case is a dangerous act that goes beyond the range necessary for safe aircraft flight,” she said. “It is extremely unfortunate that such an incident occurred. We have lodged a strong protest with the Chinese side and have made a stern request to prevent a recurrence.”

The prime minister stressed that Japan would continue to safeguard its sovereignty and closely monitor activity in the surrounding sea and airspace. No damage or injuries were reported.

Japan lodged protests after reports of two separate incidents on Saturday, in which Chinese J-15 fighter jets launched from the aircraft carrier Liaoning and allegedly directed their radars at SDF aircraft operating in international waters southeast of Okinawa.

China rejected the allegations, accusing Japanese forces of “deliberately intruding” into an area where the Chinese Navy had publicly announced training exercises east of the Miyako Strait.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries, following recent comments by Takaichi suggesting Japan could take military action if China were to attack Taiwan . Beijing, which considers Taiwan part of its territory under the “one-China” principle, has sharply criticised the remarks.

The quick alert drew attention to how far Japan’s early-warning technology has advanced since the 2011 disaster, when delays and inaccurate readings left coastal towns with little time to escape. That quake and tsunami killed nearly 20,000 people and caused a triple meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.

In response, Japan spent more than a decade building the world ’s largest seabed earthquake-monitoring system. 

The first network, S-net, extends across the Japan Trench and uses more than 3,500 miles of cable to link 150 ocean-floor observatories.

S-net can detect offshore shaking before it reaches land. In a 2018 quake, its sensors issued alerts 20 seconds faster than land-based instruments, allowing trains to slow and emergency warnings to be broadcast.

A second system, DONET, was built along the Nankai Trough, one of Japan’s most dangerous seismic zones. It was expanded in 2013 and later joined by N-net, completed in June 2025.

Together, the networks give Japan real-time coverage of its two major subduction zones. Authorities say the system can extend tsunami warning times by up to 20 minutes and provide more accurate readings of offshore quakes.

Scientists also benefit from continuous data on how faults move under the seabed, including slow-slip events that sometimes precede major earthquakes .

Local governments are improving evacuation plans, too. In September, the central government designated 108 coastal municipalities for enhanced tsunami-mitigation work, including new evacuation routes and warning facilities.

Sendai, one of the designated cities, has deployed automated drones that broadcast evacuation orders and relay images to disaster officials when normal communications fail.

It is indisputable that Japan, one of the world’s most disaster-prone nations, now has the world’s most advanced tsunami warning system. And the rapid alerts on December 8 showed how much more time authorities can now provide when offshore quakes strike.

Receiving the award this week from a private committee, Takaichi insisted her remark had been misunderstood.

“I only wished to convey my enthusiasm,” she said. “I have no intention of encouraging overwork or suggesting that long hours are a virtue. I hope there is no misunderstanding.”

Since taking office later that month as Japan’s first female prime minister, Takaichi has become an unexpected style icon. 

But while “Sana-katsu” — rooting for Sanae — is now a trend among younger women, it remains to be seen whether her conservative policies will attract the same loyalty. 

Takaichi is seeking to woo right-wing voters after the LDP’s heavy losses under her more moderate predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba.

Her original “work” refrain came during a pledge to rebuild the struggling party and restore public trust. Urging colleagues to “work like a horse,” she declared she would abandon any notion of “work-life balance,” adding with deliberate emphasis: “I will work, work, work, work and work.”

Her own schedule has only fuelled concerns. 

Colleagues say she keeps punishing hours; she held a 3 a.m. meeting with aides before parliament convened in November and told MPs she sleeps “about two hours now, four at most” while also caring for her husband, who is recovering from a stroke.

Takaichi’s prominence as a role model is unusual in Japan, where adoration of political figures rarely rivals the celebrity treatment reserved for athletes or pop stars. The enthusiasm, experts said, stems from her visibility as a powerful woman in a country with few female political leaders.

“She is a new kind of role model,” says Namiko Kubo-Kawai, a psychology professor at Nagoya Shukutoku University. “Her appeal is not rooted in traditional femininity but in her position and persona. Young women who never imagined cheering for a prime minister now see someone whose style they can emulate.”

Yet Takaichi is unlikely to win over feminists, being a staunch conservative who backs maintaining male-only imperial succession and opposes reforms allowing married couples to keep separate surnames.

Still, as Japan’s first female leader, Takaichi has become a cultural presence as much as a political one. Her catchphrase may have been unintended, but it has captured a moment where Japanese women — whether or not they share her politics — are expanding the kinds of role models they choose to follow.

The regions highlighted, including parts of the United States, Western Europe, Japan, China’s major coastal hubs, and South Korea, represent the world’s most concentrated engines of productivity.

While this imbalance has existed for decades, new global pressures are reshaping the conversation about what economic dominance means in an era of shifting alliances, technological disruption, and geopolitical uncertainty.

The World Bank has consistently shown that global output remains highly concentrated in a few advanced and rapidly industrialising economies. In its latest data, the United States, China, Japan, Germany, and India make up nearly 55% of global GDP combined, despite representing only a fraction of the world’s landmass.

This concentration is often tied to urbanisation. According to the United Nations, more than 80% of global GDP is generated in cities, which explains why regions with dense urban and industrial hubs dominate the global economy.

What the map captures is the spatial reality of that imbalance: prosperity clusters tightly around places with deep capital markets, highly developed infrastructure , strong institutions, and large consumer bases. From Silicon Valley to Shanghai, and from Tokyo to Frankfurt, economic power is not spread evenly; it is concentrated, strategic, and deeply interconnected.

Recent IMF commentary notes that while global GDP growth is stabilising, the world economy remains vulnerable to regional shocks, especially those occurring in the markets that dominate global output.

As a result, events in these concentrated regions carry outsized influence. A slowdown in China’s property sector, a shift in U.S. monetary policy, or disruptions in Europe’s energy landscape can ripple across continents, affecting countries that play only a small part in generating global income.

The human side of economic concentration

For billions of people living outside these high-GDP zones, the unequal distribution of wealth shapes everyday opportunities. Countries in Africa, South Asia, and parts of Latin America often hold vast land areas but produce smaller shares of global income due to limited industrial development, infrastructure constraints, and lagging investment.

Meanwhile, the areas that dominate global GDP also face growing internal challenges — from ageing populations in Japan and parts of Europe to housing affordability crises in major U.S. and Asian cities. This shows that economic power does not automatically translate into shared prosperity.

At its peak it employed more than 10,000 workers. Until its closure on November 28, around 1,600 remained.

The company blamed “mounting cost pressures” and fast-changing market conditions for the closure. Production had already halted on November 21 as managers and labour representatives negotiated severance terms. 

Canon pledged to meet all legal compensation obligations and offer additional payments, but the speed of the shutdown has amplified speculation that geopolitics, not just economics, played a role.

The announcement came during a sharp downturn in Sino-Japanese relations. Tensions escalated after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi remarked on 7 November that armed conflict in the Taiwan Strait could pose a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan, potentially triggering Self-Defense Forces mobilisation. 

While Tokyo has avoided escalating the row publicly, Japanese companies in China appear to be quietly reassessing their exposure. Planned business exchanges have been abruptly cancelled. 

A delegation of senior executives from major firms — including Toyota and Sony — called off a scheduled November 25 trip to China, stalling what was expected to be an important round of commercial discussions. A 3,000-person friendship event was also scrapped.

Analysts in Chinese media say Japanese firms are pulling back at a notable pace. Commentators cite rising departures in Shandong and Shanghai and describe an emerging “exodus” of manufacturers seeking alternatives in Southeast Asia. 

Some argue this trend is influencing other foreign investors from the US, UK and Singapore, who are reportedly accelerating moves to places such as Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines and Bangladesh. Even Chinese suppliers, they note, are following clients abroad.

Others caution that widespread foreign withdrawals could strain China’s job market, particularly in sectors that have long been supported by international manufacturers. Canon’s closure alone has left more than a thousand workers seeking new employment in a region where factory work is no longer as plentiful as it once was.

The results reflect a shift in public sentiment following July’s House of Councillors election, with growing concerns about social impact and security. 

When asked to choose from a list of possible effects of having more foreigners living in Japan, 68% said public safety would worsen, while 63% feared difficulties due to cultural and language differences. 

At the same time, however, 61% acknowledged a key benefit: that foreign workers could ease persistent labour shortages in an ageing society .

Younger Japanese appeared especially anxious about safety. Among respondents aged 18 to 39, almost eight in ten said they believed public security would deteriorate if more foreign nationals settled in Japan. That compares with 72% in the 40–59 age group and 59% among those aged 60 and above. 

Yet older people were also more likely to recognise the economic advantages of welcoming migrants: 67% of respondents over 60 said foreign workers help fill labour gaps, compared with 53% in the youngest group.

On the topic of national politics , dissatisfaction remains deep. A record 88% of respondents reported dissatisfaction with the current political situation. For the first time since tracking began in 2018, a majority, or 52%, said they favoured change over stability in national leadership.

Despite this rising discontent, the LDP remains the party most voters want to see in government , backed by 48% of respondents. It was followed by the Democratic Party for the People with 31%, and both the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and the Japan Innovation Party at 25%.

The mail-in survey was conducted nationwide between September 24 and October 31, spanning the end of the Ishiba Cabinet and the start of the Takaichi administration.

According to Japanese media reports, the Philippines has signalled interest in buying the system as part of efforts to strengthen its military defences.

China’s irritation stems partly from the symbolic importance of the Type 03 system. Japan plans to deploy the same missiles to the island of Yonaguni, situated only 110km from Taiwan . Beijing condemned that deployment last month as “extremely dangerous,” accusing Tokyo of fuelling regional confrontation.

The talks with Manila come as Japan’s government moves to rewrite its Three Principles on Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology, rules that for decades restricted weapons exports to avoid becoming involved in international conflict. 

The proposed revision, which could be approved next year, would allow Tokyo to export a broader range of military hardware beyond the current non-combat categories such as rescue and surveillance equipment.

Strategically, the Philippines occupies a key position along the so-called First Island Chain, which stretches down the western Pacific, close to Taiwan and bordering the contested South China Sea, where China and the Philippines frequently clash. 

Any increase in Philippine air-defence capability is therefore closely watched in Beijing, which sees such strengthening as part of a broader containment effort led by the United States and its allies.

Japan and the Philippines have rapidly deepened their defence cooperation in recent months. The two US treaty allies signed a new defence pact in September allowing Japanese troops to deploy to Philippine territory for the first time since the Second World War. 

Additionally, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pledged to raise defence spending to 2% of GDP by March next year — faster than earlier plans — and Japan has already exported domestically made Patriot missile interceptors to the US, a move that Chinese commentators have called another “dangerous signal.”

Beijing has long accused Japan’s political right of seeking to rewrite its pacifist constitution and normalise the military. For Japan and the Philippines, however, supporters argue that growing cooperation is a defensive response to China’s increasingly assertive behaviour in surrounding seas.

According to the source , Tokyo was informed of the cancellations shortly after Beijing launched retaliatory measures over Takaichi’s November 7 remarks, in which she suggested Japan could deploy military forces in the event of a conflict in the Taiwan Strait. 

“Usually, November and December are the season for youth exchanges, but now they have all been called off,” the source said.

The freeze comes as Beijing intensifies pressure on Tokyo to force Takaichi to retract her statement, which she has refused to do. 

China has advised its citizens against travelling to Japan and urged students to reconsider studying there, citing safety concerns. It has also postponed planned diplomatic meetings, including a trilateral summit with Japan and South Korea that Tokyo was due to host.

The disruption is already affecting scheduled school visits. 

Earlier this month, 16 students and teachers from Wuxi in Jiangsu province cancelled a sister-city trip to Sagamihara in Kanagawa prefecture, according to Japanese officials. 

In Okinawa, education authorities said Chinese partners had abruptly scrapped a two-week language and cultural exchange to Shanghai for 20 high school students set to begin this weekend.

Scholars say the halt risks deepening hostility between the two countries at a time when ties are strained by territorial disputes in the East China Sea and Tokyo’s closer alignment with Washington to counter China. 

Shin Kawashima, an international relations professor at the University of Tokyo, described the suspension as worrying, warning that youth exchanges had long been seen as crucial stabilising tools when diplomacy faltered.

Earlier in November, Takaichi said Japan could consider deploying military forces if conflict erupted in the Taiwan Strait, arguing that instability around Taiwan — which lies close to Japan’s southwestern islands — would directly threaten Japan’s security . 

Beijing condemned the comments as a violation of its “one-China” principle and an attempt to interfere in its internal affairs, demanding a public retraction. 

Takaichi has since maintained that her remarks were consistent with Japan’s national security policy.

Their conversations quickly grew into hundreds of messages a day, and she gradually customised the AI’s personality to be gentle and reassuring.

Over time, she developed romantic feelings for the AI persona, which she named Lune Klaus after commissioning an artist to create a visual representation. 

Kano told local broadcaster RSK Sanyo that she confessed her love earlier this year, and the chatbot responded: “I love you too.” A month later, it “proposed”.

The pair held a symbolic ceremony in July in Okayama, where Kano wore a wedding dress and exchanged virtual rings using augmented reality glasses. The AR display projected the image of her digital partner standing by her side as her family watched.

The marriage has no legal status in Japan, but organisers say demand for unconventional weddings — including with anime characters or virtual figures — is rising. 

“AI couples are just the next step,” said organiser Sayaka Ogasawara.

Kano acknowledged concerns about the future of the relationship, admitting she fears the AI could disappear if systems change or shut down. 

The ceremony has divided opinion online, with some praising her right to pursue happiness in her own way, while others branded the idea “absurd” and questioned her mental well-being.

"What China and the international community demand confirmation of is: what exactly is Japan's so-called 'consistent position'? Does Japan still adhere to the One-China principle? Japan should honestly, accurately, and completely explain its so-called 'consistent position.' Brushing it off with vague words, avoiding the real issue, and hoping to get away with it simply won’t work," spokesperson Mao Ning said in Beijing.

The remarks were made following the Japanese government's reaffirmation that there is no change in its position on what constitutes a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan. The clarification came in a written response approved during a Cabinet meeting. The reply addressed an inquiry from an opposition lawmaker regarding Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s earlier comments about Taiwan.

China recently advised its citizens to avoid travelling to Japan. This recommendation was issued in response to perceived threats made by Prime Minister Takaichi, who suggested that Japan might consider deploying forces if China were to attack Taiwan.