TOKYO, Jun 12 (News On Japan) - Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike (71) announced on the 12th her intention to run for a third term in the gubernatorial election scheduled for July 7, with the official campaign period starting on June 20th.
In the final session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly's regular meeting, Koike stated, 'I have decided to run in the Tokyo gubernatorial election with the resolve to further advance the upgraded Tokyo reform.'
Source: Kyodo
A suspicious object feared to be explosive was discovered at a high school in Sapporo on the afternoon of November 22nd, causing temporary chaos. The object was found to have been brought to the school by one of its students.
China says it will resume allowing visa-free visits by Japanese nationals on short-term trips from the end of this month. (NHK)
Japan is facing a deepening crisis of poverty and inequality, with rising reports of 'invisible homeless' individuals and growing economic hardships among the population. Discussions over reforms to the country's tax and welfare systems have taken center stage, as policymakers grapple with how to provide meaningful support.
A special lighting ceremony was held on November 20th at Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo. The event featured a unique lighting design created by renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii.
A Japanese pharmaceutical company has announced the successful commercialization of fiber made from silk produced by bagworms.
Elon Musk, the incoming head of the newly established Efficiency Ministry under President-elect Trump, has vowed to reduce $500 billion in government waste annually. Musk, known for his admiration of Japanese culture, sparked speculation on October 21st with a social media post simply stating "Wabi-Sabi" in Japanese, prompting questions about his intentions.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries held an emergency meeting to address the rapid outbreak of avian influenza, urging prefectural governments to strengthen hygiene management measures.
Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru has expressed his eagerness to develop cooperation with China and other nations after a series of summit meetings in South America. (NHK)
Prime Minister Ishiba, attending the G20 summit in Brazil, held talks on November 18th with UK Prime Minister Starmer, where they agreed to establish an economic "2+2" framework involving foreign and economic ministers.
The 2024 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit successfully concluded in November in Lima, Peru. During this meeting, which brought together leaders from 21 member economies, in-depth discussions were held on topics such as regional economic integration, global trade, and sustainable development.
"Harris is merely the runner-up; her media 'cheerleaders' are licking their wounds and will take longer to recover. After all, they were the ones who worked hardest to bring down Trump—yet, after eight years of effort, they’re weaker and more embarrassed than ever before," wrote Elle Purnell, an editor at The Federalist and one of the few traditional media figures who staunchly support Trump.
Geopolitical risks in the Middle East have rapidly escalated since the October 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas. In addition to Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, a regional war has grown likelier due to Iran–Israel tensions. This poses serious concerns for Japan’s energy security, which depends on Middle Eastern oil supply. (East Asia Forum)
Former Hyogo Governor Motohiko Saito has secured re-election following the gubernatorial election triggered by his resignation.
