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Tokyo Report
Japan, US Emphasize Security Cooperation During Kishida Visit
By Mina Pollmann
The Japanese prime minister's U.S. visit, and the latest 2+2 consultations, emphasized an even-closer alliance amid Japan's changing security posture.
Kishida’s 3 Dilemmas as G7 President
By Takahashi Kosuke
After his successful tour of 5 G-7 partners, Japan’s three main challenges are apparent: Russia, China, and nuclear weapons.
Japan Eyes Delay of Fukushima Plant Water Release
By Mari Yamaguchi
The plan to released treated radioactive wastewater has been fiercely opposed by local residents and Japan's neighbors, including China and South Korea.
Japan’s Winter Energy Crunch Marks Return to Nuclear Power
By Thisanka Siripala
The country’s worsening energy supply shortage is seeing nuclear power play a greater role in its energy mix.
For Kishida and Biden, a Stronger Japanese Defense Posture Is Only Half the Battle
By Craig Kafura
It’s one thing to commit to a stronger military and another thing to use it.
How Has the ‘Korean Wave’ Impacted Japan-South Korea Relations?
By Wang Linbin
The Korean Wave, or hallyu, has seen ups and downs in Japan, but could exert political influence over the long term.
Japan Looks to Promote a Hydrogen Society
By Daisuke Akimoto
Prime Minister Kishida Fumio's government plans to enact new laws to support the creation of a hydrogen supply chain.
Japan’s New Strategic Direction
By Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
Increasingly, many countries that have traditionally maintained a defensive and pacifist posture, like Japan, are having to reconsider their options.
Japan Approves 26.3% Increase in Defense Spending for Fiscal Year 2023
By Takahashi Kosuke
For the ninth year in a row, the budget draft set a new record for Japan’s national defense budget.
Japan’s Strong World Cup Will Boost Its Football Diplomacy in Southeast Asia
By Vikram Jayakumar
Japanese football plays a crucial supplementary role in Tokyo’s efforts to wedge itself between Southeast Asian states and China.
How Can Japan Help Taiwan?
By Mina Pollmann
Aside from visits by high-ranking LDP politicians, there are equally important, if less high-profile, changes Japan can make.
Japanese Company’s Lander Rockets Toward Moon With UAE Rover
By Marcia Dunn
The company, ispace, is one of the first private entities to attempt a moon landing. "This is the dawn of the lunar economy," its CEO declared.