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Tokyo Report
Japan OKs Record $317 Billion Extra Budget for COVID, Economy
By Mari Yamaguchi
The budget largely is to fund COVID-19 measures, including booster shot vaccines and cash payouts.
What to Expect From Japan’s ‘Economic Security’ Legislation
By Daisuke Akimoto
The Kishida administration has emphasized economic security, but what does it mean?
Kishida’s New Japan in the COVID-19 Era
By Thisanka Siripala
The shift to a post-pandemic era is at the center of Kishida’s new economic stimulus package, but the spread of Omicron threatens to derail Japan’s recovery.
Japan Needs an Energy Security Strategy for the Taiwan Strait
By Dustin Hinkley
It is critical that the National Security Strategy review announced by Prime Minister Kishida include policies to improve Japan’s energy security.
Can Japan’s Main Opposition Party Win Public Approval?
By Thisanka Siripala
The new leader of the CDP is focusing on a policy-based approach to rebuild after a crushing election loss.
Can Kishida Become Japan’s First Human Rights Prime Minister?
By Mieczysław P. Boduszyński and Christopher K. Lamont
Japan has rarely been keen to promote human rights and democracy overseas. That may change under Kishida and his new special adviser on human rights.
China Lashes Out at Japan’s Former PM Abe Over Taiwan Warning
By Associated Press
Abe Shinzo’s pointed comments on Taiwan drew an angry reaction from Beijing.
Japan’s New Pandemic Border Restrictions Disappoint Residents Stranded Abroad
By Thisanka Siripala
Many foreign residents have had their hopes to enter Japan dashed as new border controls make little impact.
Will Japan-South Korea Relations Ever Get Back on Track?
By Yuki Tatsumi
There has been a fundamental shift in the dynamics surrounding Japan-South Korea relations, with both sides hardening their approach.
Japan, Vietnam Look to Cyber Defense Against China
By Mari Yamaguchi
The cybersecurity agreement comes two months after the two countries struck a deal under which Japan will provide defense equipment and technology to Vietnam.
A New Flashpoint in Japan-Korea Relations
By SAKAMOTO Shigeki
Misgivings over the Korean Supreme Court’s ruling in September 2021.
Japan’s Ambivalent AUKUS Response
By TSURUOKA Michito
Tokyo has been generally welcoming, but not without a feeling of unease.