News On Japan

Russian diplomats ratchet up record unpaid parking fines in Japan

TOKYO, Nov 23 (News On Japan) - Russians continue to be the worst offenders among cars with foreign diplomatic number plates when it comes to not paying off parking fines in Japan.

According to a country-wise list obtained by FNN through a freedom of information request from the National Police Agency, under the diplomatic immunity provided by the Vienna Convention, the number of unpaid parking fines by diplomatic vehicles that have been ignored for five years thus reaching the statute of limitations, has continued to see Russia as the worst culprit. In fiscal 2022, Russia accounted for 2,338 cases, or 59% of the total, an increase from 46% in 2021.

China, which had the second-highest number, reduced its cases from 638 to 246, less than half. Kazakhstan ranked third, followed by Egypt, Iran, and Ukraine.

On the other hand, the United Arab Emirates, which had been among the top 20 worst, made all payments and for the first time reported '0 cases'.

Following a series of reports by FNN, the payment of parking violations by most countries has significantly improved over the years, while Russia's delinquency continues unabated.

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

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 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.

Sales for the Year-End Jumbo Lottery, which offers a combined prize of 1 billion yen for the first prize and adjacent prizes, have officially begun.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Politics NEWS

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.

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.

The Ishiba Cabinet announced its appointments for vice ministers and parliamentary secretaries on November 13th, selecting Akiko Ikuina and Eriko Imai, both former idols and current members of the House of Councillors.