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Multiple short-range ballistic missiles fired from North Korea, reports Yonhap News Agency

Japan Reader | 24 September 2024, Tuesday | Vol.1 No. 180
Japan’s PM condemns Russian airspace violation
On 23 September, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida strongly condemned a Russian military aircraft that tripled its intrusion into Japanese airspace near Hokkaido. He termed the incident “extremely regrettable,” confirming that Japan formally protested it to Moscow. He told this in New York, stressing that Japan is committed to protecting sovereignty and urging Russia to prevent future violations. (Ayaka Kudo, “PM Kishida Condemns Russia for Violating Airspace, Vows to Defend Japan’s Territory,” The Japan News, 24 September 2024)
 
Japan presses China on safety after fatal attack on Japanese schoolboy
On 23 September, Japanese State Minister for Foreign Affairs Yoshifumi Tsuge met with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong in Beijing due to the knife attack that left a 10-year-old student injured at a Japanese school in Shenzhen. Tsuge appealed to China to take measures for the security and safety of Japanese nationals and probe into the motive behind the incident where a suspect jabbed a 10-year-old at a Japanese school. He also sought measures against anti-Japanese posts on Chinese social media and greater bilateral cooperation on measures for the protection of Japanese schools in China. Sun regretted the incident and promised to support the family of the victim while refusing to delve into the motives for the attack. Tsuge later emphasised that the motive behind attacks has to be found so that later attacks could be avoided in the future. Chinese Foreign Ministry denied ever having anti-Japanese education in China. Tsuge assured the Japanese expatriates that children’s safety would be taken as a top priority. The head of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce in China, Tetsuro Honma, echoed the same worrying tone regarding safety and expressed the anxiety faced by Japanese residents in China. (“Japan Urges China to Ensure Safety of Japanese Nationals,” The Japan News, 24 September 2024)

China and Japan’s foreign ministers seek to strengthen bilateral ties amid regional challenges
On 23 September, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met his Japanese counterpart Yoko Kamikawa in New York to discuss the state of their countries’ relations. Wang stressed that both countries should further this strategic partnership. Kamikawa stated the importance of communication in all fields including resolving the Fukushima water discharge issue. She also raised concerns about a recent attack on a Japanese student in Shenzhen. Addressing these points, Wang said that China will make an investigation of the incident and take measures to ensure the safety of foreign citizens. He called on Japan to honor its commitment to international monitoring of the discharge of water from Fukushima. Both ministers presented that people-to-people interactions are important to enhance bilateral ties. (“Wang Yi calls on Japan to meet China halfway for sound development of ties,” CGTN, 24 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 23 September 2024, Monday | Vol.1 No. 179
Japan criticised for inhumane treatment of the death row inmates, notes an opinion in Japan Today
On 23 September, an opinion in Japan Today titled “Japan criticized for treating death-row inmates inhumanely,” looked into the inhumane treatment of the inmates of those sentenced to death. The expert team condemned for zero warning on future execution and denying basic human contact on the death row. However, Japan did not establish any guidelines on warnings to be issued to the death row people till 1970, recently, inmates have been notified only a week or two before they were hanged. A former prison officer said: “A death-row inmate was allowed to spend some time with his wife who had rushed to see her condemned husband at an eastern Japan correctional facility before his execution after she was informed about it via telegram. At the time, death-row inmates were also allowed to communicate among themselves when exercising or doing other activities like writing haiku poetry, in contrast to current inmates who are allowed few opportunities to talk to others. Some death-row inmates were allowed to keep small birds or grow flowers in their cells.” Additionally, the Ministry of Justice did not announce any policy change on the execution but has managed to give information in advance. Two death-row inmates filed a lawsuit against issues notifying inmates on the day of executions preventing them from taking legal steps to stay the process. But the court dismissed the suit stating that death-row inmates must accept the execution of their sentences. A professor at Kansai University Kenji Nagata, condemned the current practices and said: “I can understand the argument that death-row inmates who have inflicted pain on victims deserve fear and pain themselves. But I can't agree with the state (causing extra) punishment.” (“Japan criticized for treating death-row inmates inhumanely,” Japan Today, 23 September 2024)
 
Japan to negotiate an auto export deal with the UAE, reports Japan Today
On 23 September, Japan Today reported on Japan to negotiate with the UAE for an economic partnership agreement to boost the auto exports deal. Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Hiroshi Moriya said: “The signing of an ambitious, well-balanced and comprehensive EPA is expected to help bolster economic ties between the two countries, such as the expansion of trade.” Additionally, Japan’s exports to the UAE were 1.47 trillion yen with auto parts accounting for 43 per cent of the total, and machinery at about 14 per cent. Furthermore, the UAE aims to transform its economy by relying on oil trade, investment, and the global logistical market. (“Japan, UAE to launch talks on economic partnership agreement,” Japan Today, 23 September 2024)
 
Japan Reader | 21 September 2024, Saturday | Vol.1 No. 178
China to resume seafood imports from Japan, reports Al Jazeera
On 20 September, Al Jazeera reported that the Government of the People’s Republic of China would “gradually resume” importing seafood from Japan. The announcement came after the Chinese government and the Government of Japan agreed upon a deal that ensures the safety of water released from the disabled Fukushima nuclear plant. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China stated officials from both sides had conducted multiple rounds of consultations regarding the nuclear discharge; and that China would begin to adjust the relevant measures based on scientific standards and gradually resume imports of Japanese aquatic products meeting the required standards. Provisions of the agreement signed now include the Japanese government having to fulfil its obligations under international law and conduct continuous evaluations of the impact on the marine environment and marine ecosystems. The Prime Minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida stated the Japanese government had informed their Chinese counterparts of their readiness to carry out additional monitoring of the treated water and ensure the imports met standards. A year ago, China banned seafood imports from Japan, stating there was a threat of radioactive contamination. This was due to the operator Tokyo Electric Power Co(TEPCO) started releasing treated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean in August 2023. While the Japanese government stated the release of water was safe, the Chinese government imposed the ban. The dispute over wastewater release was after the earthquake and tsunami of 2011 knocked out power and cooling systems at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant. (  “China to ‘gradually resume’  seafood imports from Japan after Fukushima row,” Al Jazeera, 20 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 20 September 2024, Friday | Vol.1 No. 177
Japanese FM condemns the stabbing of Japanese boy in China
On 19 September, The Guardian reported on Japan’s foreign minister, Yoko Kamikawa’s statement condemning the act of stabbing a young Japanese boy to death as shameful. The details of the boy were not disclosed by any media, he died on 19 September after being allegedly stabbed near his school vicinity. The attempt also concerns about further weakening of Sino-Japanese ties. The Japanese embassy warned its nationals living in China to be vigilant and take precautionary measures. Kamikawa had asked the Chinese Foreign Ministry to take up safety measures at schools but there were no comments from the Chinese. However, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said: “The case was being investigated and Beijing would continue to take effective measures to protect the safety of all foreigners.” Furthermore, Chinese relations with Japan have worsened in recent years over issues like Beijing’s increasing military activities in Japanese waters, territorial disputes, and issues related to remote islands in the East China Sea by Japan. (“Tokyo demands answers over fatal stabbing of 10-year-old Japanese boy in China,” The Guardian, 20 September 2024)
 
Bank of Japan keeps steady interest rate at 0.25 per cent, reports Kyodo News
On 20 September, Kyodo News reported that the Bank of Japan kept the interest rate steady at around 0.25 per cent over the widely expected two-day policy meeting. The BoJ stated that the economy in Japan has been progressively recovering, despite some flaws in the economy. However, the Japanese bank has opted for some policies amid the recent depreciation of its currency with other central banks of Japan, losing its monetary hold to foster its economic growth. Additionally, the US Federal Reserve on 18 September amended its key rate for the first time in four years accompanying the European Central Bank and the Bank of England. However, the ongoing fashion in Japan and other major economies in the monetary policy is to decrease the interest rate gap and possibly support the yen to regain its depreciation. (“BOJ keeps interest rates unchanged, weighs July hike impact,” Kyodo News, 20 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 19 September 2024, Thursday | Vol.1 No. 176
Japanese school boy stabbed in China, reports Kyodo News
On 19 September, Kyodo News reported on a boy stabbed by a man while on his way to school in southern China on 18 September. Subsequently, the suspect was arrested by police who guarded the school vicinity. Minister of Foreign Affairs spokesman Lin Jian said: “The case is still under investigation; China will continue to take effective measures to protect the safety of all foreigners. Additionally, the event witnessed a knife attack by which both mother and child were injured and eventually killed a woman who tried to stop the assailant A Weibo comment read comments posted on Chinese social media and said: “People to not forget national humiliation. Hateful messages like ‘Japanese people should leave China’ and Be careful of spies at Japanese schools.” Furthermore, Japanese schools in Guangzhou and Beijing urged students and their parents to avoid speaking Japanese outdoors and advised that children do not go out unless accompanied by an adult fearing attacks on Japanese nationals in China hindering bilateral relations and Japanese investment in the country. A senior official at a Japanese electronics company said” “If a series of similar incidents occur, it's no coincidence. We have no choice but to be cautious about our business in China.” (“Japanese pupil stabbed by a man near a school in China's Shenzhen,” Kyodo News, 19 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 18 September 2024, Wednesday | Vol.1 No. 175
Multiple short-range ballistic missiles fired from North Korea, reports Yonhap News Agency
On 18 September, Yonhap News Agency reported that multiple short-range ballistic missiles were fired from North Korea in the north-eastern direction. The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said: “They detected the launches at about 6:50 a.m. from the North's Kaechon area in South Pyongyang Province, north of Pyongyang, and the missiles flew about 400 kilometres.” North Korea disclosed its uranium-based nuclear facility, a day after the missiles were launched. The latest attacks have created cross-border tensions due to the North Korean launching of trash-filled balloons. The series of attacks by Pyongyang came amid concerns of an uncooperative regime that might be provocative ahead of the US presidential elections. Additionally, the JCS Chief further said: “We strongly condemn North Korea's missile launches that are clear acts of provocation seriously threatening peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.” (“(3rd LD) N. Korea fires multiple short-range ballistic missiles: JCS,” Yonhap News Agency, 18 September 2024)
 
Yoon to visit the Czech Republic to press on the nuclear bid, reports Yonhap News Agency
On 18 September, Yonhap News Agency reported on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s visit to the Czech Republic to press on South Korea's bid for a major nuclear energy project and develop deep economic ties. The call for the visit came after an association led by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) was selected as an ideal bidder. In a statement, Yoon’s office stated that the visit aims for the successful implementation of Czech’s nuclear ambition. A senior presidential secretary for economic affairs Park Chun-sup said: “The visit plans to focus on securing the Czech Republic's cooperation and support to ensure that the Czech nuclear power plant construction project proceeds smoothly until the final contract is signed next year.” Both nations have planned to sign several agreements to bolster collaborations in next-generation vehicles, hydrogen and robotics, and discussions concerned with rebuilding infrastructure were also made. (“Yoon to visit Czech Republic with focus on nuclear energy cooperation,” Yonhap News Agency, 18 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 17 September 2024, Tuesday | Vol.1 No. 174
27.7 per cent of LDP supporters in favour of new PM, reports Japan Today
On 17 September, JAPAN TODAY reported that 27.7 per cent of supporters of the Liberal Democratic Party support Japan’s next prime minister, who was the Former economic security minister Sanae Takaichi. Among the LDP supporters in the presidential election, Koizumi came out on top with 27.9 per cent, followed by Takaichi with 21.4 per cent and Ishiba with 19.7 per cent. All the LDP members consisting of 367 diet members will vote and the other 367 votes will be determined by rank-and-file members who hold Japanese nationality and have paid membership fees for the past two years. The recent poll result showed 66.1 per cent of LDP The latest poll shows that 66.1 per cent of LDP supporters believe the ruling party's lawmakers must answer on the large sums of money accumulated since the LDP is been facing scrutiny after some of its factions failed to report on the income from fundraising parties and created slush funds. Additionally, nine candidates were divided on issues of allowing married couples to use different surnames, which has been an important point of debate for the past 30 years. According to a Kyodo News poll, 41.4 per cent of LDP supported separate surnames for married couples, while 43.2 per cent did not accept. (“Takaichi tops Kyodo poll of LDP supporters as most fit to be Japan PM,” Japan Today, 17 September 2024)
 
Japan to donate 3 million mpox doses to WHO, reports Japan Today
On 17 September, JAPAN TODAY reported on Japan’s promise of 3 million doses of vaccine for mpox as a global effort to combat the infectious disease across Africa. The call came after WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the immense surge of the mpox disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighbouring states. Japan offered the donation which is considered the largest to date. However, the European Union, the US, and a few other countries have also assured to supply a total of more than 3.6 million doses. Tedros said: “Vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics are crucial for bringing mpox outbreaks under control. We urge countries with available supplies to come forward to help save lives and prevent further infections.” Furthermore, a report by WHO stated that a total of 5,700 cases, including 32 deaths, have been reported in the DRC and 14 other African Countries, in addition, one case was reported in Sweden and Thailand this August. (“Japan pledges 3 mil doses of mpox vaccine to WHO,” JAPAN TODAY, 17 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 16 September 2024, Monday | Vol.1 No. 173
Japan’s leadership candidates address US-Japan steel relations and North Korea
On 14 September, Shinjiro Koizumi, the front-runner for Japan’s next leader, pleaded for US-Japan cooperation in the steel industry to counter Chinese competition. Ammunition amid growing angst about the Nippon Steel bid for US Steel, Koizumi reminded the need for unity and said: “If China goes on importing cheap steel without renewable or clean energy and floods the global market, it will most adversely affect us, the democratic countries playing by fair market rules.” One of the prime ministerial candidates Sanae Takaichi, agrees that the deal would strengthen allied resilience. The 43-year-old son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi Shinjiro Koizumi, also said he is interested in an initial step toward dialogue with North Korea that could help resolve the long-simmering abduction issue, mentioning a generational approach to diplomacy. The leadership of the Liberal Democratic Party is set to be decided on 27 September, and these comments reveal the struggle to balance economic and diplomatic challenges in the country’s next likely leader. (Tim Kelly and Katya Golubkova, “Japan, US face a shared challenge from cheap China steel, Japan PM hopeful says,” Reuters, 14 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 14 September 2024, Saturday | Vol.1 No. 172
Japan’s forced sterilization victims to receive compensation, reports The Japan Times
On 13 September, The Japan Times reported victims of forced sterilization surgery under the eugenics law would receive JPY 15 million in compensation.  The plaintiffs reached an agreement with the Government of Japan, two months after the Supreme Court of Japan had ordered the government to pay compensation. The agreement covered 13 ongoing lawsuits nationwide; and stated that a plaintiff would be paid JPY 15 million in damages and JPY 1.5 million in legal fees. The payments will be non-taxable as well, and the government is expected to reach agreements in individual cases. According to the deal, the Japanese government would try to eradicate eugenics ideas and discrimination against individuals with disabilities. The eugenics law was enacted in 1948, amidst a rapid population increase in Japan. The Japanese government decided to sterilize individuals with disabilities in order to reduce the population without compromising on quality. According to the Japanese Parliament, 25,000 individuals were subjected to these operations. In 1996, the law was reformed after criticism; with the eugenics clause taken out. Earlier this year, the Supreme Court ruled the eugenics law had been unconstitutional. The Prime Minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida issued a formal apology to plaintiffs and victims following the ruling ( Karin Kaneko, “Forced sterilization victims to receive 15 million in compensation,” The Japan Times, 13 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 13 September 2024, Friday | Vol.1 No. 171
Nine candidates in race for next Japan Prime Ministerial seat, reports Al Jazeera
On 12 September, Al Jazeera reported a record number of nine candidates were in the race to become the next Prime Minister of Japan. The resignation of the Prime Minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida prompted the process to select a new PM. On 27 September, the nine candidates and lawmakers from the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will meet to choose the party president, who will also become PM. In the first round, the 369 LDP lawmakers will cast a vote, while an equal number of votes will be divided amongst rank-and-file members of the party polled earlier. In case, no candidate secures a majority, a run-off second round will be conducted. In the second round, each lawmaker has one vote, but the rank and file have only 47 votes, one for each of the Japanese prefectures. The opinion polls are being led by the former Minister of Defence of Japan, Shigeru Ishiba, and the former Minister of the Environment of Japan, Shinjiro Koizumi. Koizumi has shown a liberal stance, promising to accelerate reforms of the Japanese economy like making the job market more flexible. He also supports revising the civil code, by allowing women the option to keep separate surnames. Koizumi has also promised to hold a snap election after taking office and expanding a cooperation network to counter Chinese influence. Meanwhile, the veteran Ishiba has struggled to win support from fellow lawmakers in the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) despite popularity amongst voters.  Ishiba has promised steps to address the low birth rate in Japan and an Asian version of the NATO military alliance. The other candidates include the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yoko Kamikawa, the Secretary-General of the LDP, Toshimitsu Motegi, and the Minister for Digital Transformation, Taro Kono. (“Nine candidates named in Japan’s leadership race,” Al Jazeera, 12 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 12 September 2024, Thursday | Vol.1 No. 170
Palau official to be a part of the Japan Coast Guard Study Program, reports The Japan News
On 11 September, an opinion in The Japan News titled “Japan Coast Guard Study Program to Accept Palau Official, for 1st Participant from Pacific Islands,” looked into Palau sending its Coast Guard official to take part in the study program offered by the Japan Coast Guard. Palau became the first non-Asian nation to send an official to the Maritime Safety and Security Policy Program. China’s influence in the South Seas pushes the JCG to collaborate with the US and Australia for steady maritime and intensified cooperative ties with the island nations. Additionally, amid the tensions around the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture and in the South China Sea, the program accepted Japanese presence to share the importance of a maritime order. Furthermore, the South Pacific is a major area for sea trade carrying natural resources and food from the US and Australia to Japan. Furthermore, in July of this year. Japanese Coast Guard vessels conducted a joint drill with Palau. The JCG hopes to deepen ties with high-ranking officers through initiatives like the ongoing master’s program. (“Japan Coast Guard Study Program to Accept Palau Official, for 1st Participant from Pacific Islands,” the JAPAN NEWS, 12 September 2024

Japan Reader | 10 September 2024, Tuesday | Vol.1 No. 168
RAA aims to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation, reports East Asia Forum
On 09 September, East Asia Forum reported on the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) which was signed by the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Secretary of National Defence of the Philippines, along with their Japanese counterparts on 08 July 2024 in the Defence Ministerial Meeting held in Manila. The agreement aims to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation through joint military exercises, particularly from the Chinese threat and the worsening situation in the South China Sea. The Philippines is susceptible to regional threats, however, the Marcos government considers the RAA a serious component of the Philippines’ national security. RAA benefits the Philippines by enhancing security cooperation through a framework. The framework might serve as a deterrent, especially over tensions with Chinese joint exercises. The RAA strengthens strategic alignment between the Philippines and Japan by developing a stronger security architecture. Furthermore, to prevent escalations all the parties must engage in dialogues ensuring RAA serves as a stabiliser rather than a promoter. (“Japan–Philippines defence deal reflects regional security dynamics,” East Asia Forum, 10 September 2024)

Japan-South Korea relationship improved via a series of steps, says an editorial in The Asahi Shimbun　
On 10 September, an editorial in The Asahi Shimbun titled “Japan-South Korea ties should stay the course for improvement,” looked into   Japan’s improved relationship with South Korea through a series of steps taken by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol. Both parties signed a memorandum to safeguard the citizens. After ties between Tokyo and Seoul deteriorated due to historical and other issues, both have taken extraordinary steps to pursue policies focused on fixing the tense relations with Japan. The security environment in Asia is at risk due to North Korea’s nuclear and missile development and China’s military expansion, despite these happenings the harmony between Japan and South Korea is beyond disagreement by benefitting each other from trade, economic connections and semiconductor supply chain. Additionally, South Korea faces challenges like the decline in birth rates and ageing populations but the principle is in promoting bilateral cooperation in the interest of both countries. Additionally, considering lawsuit issues some Japanese petitioners have refused to accept compensation from the South Korean foundation due to a lack of funding. Furthermore, no Japanese firm has stepped forward to make contributions which embarrassed South Korea, additionally, the Liberal Democratic Party argue that Japan should not compromise easily. (“Japan-South Korea ties should stay the course for improvement,” The Asahi Shimbun, 10 September 2024)

Tokyo Electric Power Co resumes work, reports The Asahi Shimbun
On 10 September, The Asahi Shimbun reported on Tokyo Electric Power Co resuming work after three years by collecting melted fuel from the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant. The decommission was planned by the government and TEPCO after the 2011 earthquake and anticipating a tsunami in 2025. TEPCO was under pressure to postpone the fuel retrieval project on 22 August after the findings of the wrong positioning of five pipelines, however, the utility said: “It determined the cause of the mistake and took preventive measures.” According to TEPCO: “Work resumed inside the No. 2 reactor building around 6:30 a.m. on Sept. 10. Workers used the pipes to push a debris-collection device into a passageway leading to the containment vessel. The equipment moved just beyond an isolation valve located halfway through the passageway at 7:20 a.m. The telescopic device works like a fishing rod, with a hand for catching debris hanging at the end. The No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 reactors contain an estimated 880 tons of nuclear debris, but their conditions remain unknown.” Furthermore, the company wishes to use the debris findings for its probe, but it is unsure if all the debris could be removed with ease. From 2021 the government and TEPCO planned to start collecting nuclear debris. (“TEPCO resumes oft-delayed plan to collect melted nuclear fuel,” The Asahi Shimbun, 10 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 09 September 2024, Monday | Vol.1 No. 167
Japan’s disordered leadership to face election, says an editorial in Japan Times
On 08 September, an editorial in Japan Times titled “Unpacking Japan’s messy leadership election,” looked into a new prime minister for Japan from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. The editorial says that the LDP faced a decline in support after Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s rule was hit with a fund scandal. The political turmoil in Japan has been making elections hard for decades. Small groups called factions made up the LDP. The editorial adds that these factions endorsed and campaigned for the leaders they wished to win. Its call ended when LDP factions engaged in bribery with unknown fundraising activities. Kishida made an independent decision targeting the system directly, leading to its demise. Additionally, the editorial says that the party and the candidate would not be selected based on their policy or political judgement, but rather popularity, a clean image and political clout. However, those could not be determining factors when a country is in demand for a good leader. Further, it adds that Japan has a prominent role in the world market but the global change in leaders and ongoing conflicts affect the economic life of middlemen. Furthermore, to win a candidate needs to secure more than 50 per cent of the votes. If no candidate wins a majority, then there is a same-day runoff; meaning each LDP member of parliament and each of the prefectural chapters will cast a vote creating incredibly complex deals and results, because of influential votes which might affect the political agenda of LDP parliamentarians. (“Unpacking Japan’s messy leadership election,” Japan Times, 09 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 07 September 2024, Saturday | Vol.1 No. 166
The US stumble as Japan wakes up on foreign forays, reports Japan Times
On 07 September, an editorial in Japan Times titled “Nippon Steel's U.S. setback a wake-up for Japan Inc.'s foreign forays,” looked into the scrutiny of overseas deals by Japanese firms especially after the US increased its resistance to Nippon Steel's purchase. White House is to announce a USD 15 billion Steel deal on national security grounds, while a Tokyo-based banker stated that both buyers and sellers have started to analyse political trends and scrutinise if the target is in the industry that could probably trigger state intervention. Additionally, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the US (CFIUS) said: “that the proposed deal would create national security risks by hurting the steel supply needed for critical U.S. projects and  CFIUS has stepped up its scrutiny since Chinese companies went on a U.S. shopping spree about a decade ago, snapping up assets such as the Waldorf Hotel and tech firm Ingram Micro. However, a senior partner at a law firm stated that the decision of CFIUS must change the trends of policy or Japan’s status as the primary ally. Furthermore, Nippon Steel's takeover of US Steel would have been the third-biggest acquisition by Japan in a decade after the taking over of Speedway in 2020. Co-founder and managing partner BDA Partners Euan Rellie said: “blocking cross-border M&A would be bad economics and bad policy as a tidal wave of Asian clients paying up for U.S. and European assets had been forecast.” (titled “Nippon Steel's U.S. setback a wake-up for Japan Inc.'s foreign forays,” Japan Times, 07 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 06 September 2024, Friday | Vol.1 No. 165
Japan and Australia strengthen military cooperation amid regional tensions
On 05 September, Japan and Australia are strengthening the joint military exercises of their defence forces amidst shared concerns over recent Chinese territorial incursions. At a summit held in Queenscliff, ministers from the two nations addressed increased security cooperation on the maintenance of stability in the Taiwan Strait and aggressive claims in the South and East China Seas. This involves more air force training, as well as the involvement of Australia in the Orient Shield exercise with Japan for the first time. The Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade of Japan will also join the US Marine rotations in Darwin. Japanese Defence Minister Kihara said: “Their strong opposition to unilateral change in the status quo.” Australian Defense Minister Marles said: “supporting Japanese sovereignty”. These announcements come after Chinese airspace and water incursions into Japanese territory, to which Tokyo has lodged formal protests. The collaboration aims to address regional security challenges, with both nations advocating for dispute resolution through international law rather than “power and might”. (Rod Mcguirk, “Japan and Australia agree to increase joint military training,” AP News, 05 September 2024)

Is Japan’s key foreign policy development; African development, reports Japan Times
On 05 September, an editorial in the Japan Times titled “Is Japan’s involvement in Africa’s development outdated?” looked into Japan's commitment to Africa, through the Tokyo International Conference on African Development, as a significant element of its foreign policy. Africa is confident in developing the idea, but TICAD’s relevance is being questioned. The conference has facilitated dynamic investments in Africa, but often termed as outdated and being condemned that TICAD has not fully aligned itself with Africa's Agenda 2063, which primarily focuses on self-reliance and decreasing dependency on foreign aid. Despite TICAD’s negotiating approach which focuses on sectors rather than development strategy it has created a notion that TICAD does not address the root cause of the African challenges like governance, inequality and environmental degradation. However, critics argue that TICAD must change from a donor-recipient model to a true partnership, benefitting African empowerment in fostering their development. An expert with Development Reimagined, an African-led development consultancy Sena Voncujovi said: “Japan can support Africa’s vision by focusing on industrialisation, regional integration and market access rather than traditional aid and to enhance its support, Japan should shift away from outdated aid paradigms and address Africa’s need for affordable and productive debt. This involves backing reforms in the international financial architecture, such as revising the International Monetary Fund quota system to better reflect Africa’s needs.” Additionally, African countries are primary areas for major exporters of minerals. Eventually, African nations are keen to increase their value chain, insisting on local refining rather than the traditional mine-to-port model, example: Madagascar has been Japan’s largest single investment project in Africa, especially the Ambatovy Mine, a vital Japanese supply chain of nickel. Furthermore, experts in Africa are calling for Japan to rethink its engagement with the continent. The President of AfDB Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, said: “The need for a shift from a donor-recipient relationship to a genuine partnership. Japan must transition from a model of aid to one of collaboration, where the focus is on supporting African-owned projects that align with the continent's long-term vision and TICAD should prioritize initiatives that are led by African nations and designed to address their specific challenges rather than imposing external agendas that may not fully resonate with local needs. Finally, Japanese engagement with Africa solely depends on its willingness to adapt to the change in dynamics of the continent by collaborating on local initiatives and empowering the 2063 Agenda. (“Is Japan’s involvement in Africa’s development outdated?,” Japan Times, 06 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 05 September 2024, Thursday | Vol.1 No. 164
Japan to form a new maritime Fleet Surface Force
On 04 September, Naval News reported on the new reorganization process that would abolish the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force’s tentatively creating a new Fleet Surface Force.  On 03 September, a former Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) captain said: “For us JMSDF officers who have served under the Fleet Escort Force for a long time, this can be considered a major reorganization and establish a structure for centralized command and supervision of all surface vessel units such as Fleet Escort Force and Mine Warfare Force that have been in place until now.” Additionally, there were the Minesweeper Division and the Patrol Guided Missile Boat Division under five Districts being controlled directly by the Minister of Defence. These divisions would be merged into the new Fleet Surface Force under the Self-Defence Fleet and eventually reorganised inside the force-by-ship function. Furthermore, by merging ships into the Fleet Surface Force, they would be further regrouped as amphibious warfare aiming to be more responsive to medium- to long-term demands. The attempt to reorganize JMSDF comes successively after the Defence Build Plan for Financial Year 2023-27 framed to reorganize the existing Escort Flotilla and Mine Warfare Force into Surface Vessel Units to serve the patrol vessels in the future. (“Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Set for Major Organizational Change,” Naval News, 05 September 2024)
 
Japan Reader | 04 September 2024, Wednesday | Vol.1 No. 163
ASEAN–Japan relationship requires a two way exchange, says an editorial by East Asia Forum
On 04 September, an opinion in the East Asia Forum titled “Two-way exchanges are crucial for deepening ASEAN–Japan relations,” looked into the ASEAN–Japan relations, the building of closer ties, tangible mutual trust, understanding, and respect. From the 1977 Fukuda Doctrine, the relationship has transformed into a deep and meaningful relationship today developing Japan’s soft power in the region, terming Japan the most trusted partner in Southeast Asia. The Golden Jubilee celebration in 2023 emphasised the ASEAN–Japan Friendship and Cooperation reflecting the closer ties developing a two-way relationship. In contrast, ASEAN’s presence in Japan is barely noticeable, only in industries such as ASEAN coffee and Filipino chocolate. Japan’s soft power in Southeast Asia focuses on long-term strategic decisions, by investment and hard work. Japan tied up with ASEAN post-war through official development assistance (ODA), contributing to the economic development of member states and creating a donor-recipient partnership. Subsequently, Japan initiated the Cool Japan strategy to promote and commercialise Japanese culture overseas like language centres and restaurants across Southeast Asia. Japanese products such as Sanrio and Pokemon have a wide market. Japan’s long-term investment has enabled its soft power to spread. After ASEAN tied with Japan, the opportunities declined especially, in the food culture. Additionally, a change has been witnessed as Japan focuses on increasing start-ups that could benefit from ASEAN’s vigorous start-up ecosystem. Japan could also seek Southeast Asian start-ups to achieve net-zero emissions targets. Further policies from ASEAN like tax incentives or innovation grants, could help in the development of its commercial presence and foster innovation in Japan aligning with the goals of co-creation. (“Two-way exchanges are crucial for deepening ASEAN–Japan relations,” East Asia Forum, 04 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 03 September 2024, Tuesday | Vol.1 No. 162
Japanese R&D to be shaped with Intel’s assistance, reports Nikkei Asia
On 03 September, Nikkei Asia reported on the collaboration of the Japanese National Research Institute and a US chipmaker to shape a research and development centre in Japan. The Institute is equipped with leading semiconductor manufacturing technology to boost the country's chip developments. It will have extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV) equipment. The users will have to pay a fee to use the facility, making it the first of its kind in Japan to experience the use of EUV equipment. The EUV is a vital technology for semiconductor manufacturing which costs more than USD 273 million per unit which is difficult for small-scale industries to purchase hence these companies use EUV equipment belonging to overseas research institutes, like Imec in Belgium. Additionally, the US has restricted EUV-related exports to China, making the process hard to gather the data from outdoor facilities hence, the availability of EUV equipment at home research institutions will reduce this problem. (“Japan to establish chip research center with Intel,” Nikkei Asia, 03 September 2024)

Japan Reader | 02 September 2024, Monday  | Vol.1 No. 161
Typhoon Shanshan causes havoc in Japan
On 31 August, an opinion on BBC titled “Typhoon Shanshan causes widespread Japan disruption,” looked into the anticipation of the strongest typhoons to hit Japan. The level-five order was issued to millions of residents in the southern island of Kyushu after a storm approached with winds of up to 252 km/h. After the landfall, the typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm, but still blew its way northeast, expecting up to 300mm of rainfall in the next 24 hours. Japan’s Meteorological Agency advised people to be aware of landslides, flooding, and overflowing rivers. Heavy rainfall was witnessed in Gifu and Mie on 31 August. Additionally, according to a study, special typhoon warnings were declared in Japan in cases of extraordinarily powerful storms similar to Typhoon Nanmadol in 2022. The typhoons are forming closer to coastlines, rapidly intensifying and lasting longer over land due to climate change. (“Typhoon Shanshan causes widespread Japan disruption,” BBC, 02 September 2024)