at 18:00 (JST), September 30 eibunwo

20250930180000_english_1.mp3

 Welcome back to NHK Newsline. Here's the latest we have for you at this hour. 

US BUDGET STANDOFF MAY SHUT GOVT. OFFICES ON WEDNESDAY

Some US government offices may close from Wednesday as Republicans and Democrats remain far apart on spending plans.
The House of Representatives passed a stopgap budget bill on September 19 that would fund the government temporarily from October 1. But the Senate rejected the bill as Democrats sought an extension of health insurance benefits. President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance met with congressional leaders of both parties on Monday, but they failed to find common ground. 

I think we're headed to a shutdown. You don't use your policy disagreements as leverage. To not pay our troops, to not have essential for services of government actually function.

Meanwhile, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said his party made proposals to the president on health care funding.
He said a shutdown can be avoided if the president accepts some requests. Such stalemates over the federal budget have become a regular occurrence in Washington. The situation remains tense as the Trump administration is poised to furlough workers if government offices are closed.

YOUTUBE SETTLES TRUMP LAWSUIT FOR $24.5 MILLION

YouTube has agreed to pay $24.5 million to settle a lawsuit filed by President Trump over the suspension of his account following the January 2021 attack on the US Capitol. Trump and other parties sued Google-owned YouTube in July 2021, claiming the platform was trying to silence their freedom of speech. Google's parent company, Alphabet, will pay the settlement, and Trump will receive $22 million. The money is to be placed in a trust supporting the construction of the White House State Ballroom. YouTube is the latest major platform to settle with the president. Mehta and X have already settled similar lawsuits filed by him.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump has raked in more than $80 million in payouts from lawsuits he has brought against big tech and media companies since he won last fall's election.

N.KOREAN DIPLOMAT VOWS PYONGYANG WILL KEEP NUCLEAR PROGRAM

A senior North Korean diplomat says his country will never give up its nuclear program. Kim Song Young made the remarks in a speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Monday. 

We will never give up nuclear power, which is our state law, national policy and sovereign power, as well as the right to existence. Under any circumstances, we will never walk away from this position.

Kim says Pyongyang's deterrence is proportionate to the growing threat of aggression from the US and its allies. He says it thoroughly contains their will to provoke a war. Kim adds that pressuring North Korea to denuclearizeis tantamount to demanding it surrender its sovereignty. He also claimed the US, South Korea, and Japan are raising tensions on the Korean Peninsula by conducting joint exercises. The drills simulate responses to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, but the diplomat accused the three nations of rehearsing procedures and methods that could be used in a nuclear attack against the North. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has suggested that he would be open to talks with the US if Washington gives up trying to denuclearize North Korea.

AUSTRALIA HOSTS INTERNATIONAL ASTRONAUTICAL CONGRESS

The who's who of the space industry is in Sydney, Australia for the 76th International Astronautical Congress.
It brings together agencies from around the world, as well as the businesses building the tech needed to reach the final frontier. The five-day event kicked off Monday with the theme Sustainable Space, Resilient Earth.
Participants will discuss a range of emerging issues for the industry, including how to deal with the growing amount of debris from The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency is taking part. JAXA is showing off a model of a lunar probe designed to analyze water content in the moon's soil. The mission is set for launch as early as next fiscal year. The event comes as another participant, NASA, is facing an uncertain future. The Trump administration plans to slash the US Space Agency's budget by 24%, or about $6 billion. More than 20% of NASA's workforce, about 4,000 employees, have opted to resign. NASA's acting administrator says his agency still has an important role to play bringing humanity to the moon and Mars.

See, there's a lot that a lot of agencies that can get involved in in climate change and that whole conversation, but only one is human exploration, and that's NASA. We're the only ones who are human space explorers. 

At the same time, a growing number of countries are shooting for the stars. Officials and business representatives from roughly 100 countries are involved in this year's Congress.

ANALYSIS: HOW PRIVATE COMPANIES ARE CHANGING THE SPACE RACE

For more on this, I earlier spoke with NHK World's Yokokawa Hiroshi, who was at the conference in Sydney.
Hiroshi, what are the big issues facing the space industry right now? 

A big question is what role private companies will have in space. For years, governments led the charge when it comes to near-Earth space development.
But now that the technology is widely available, private companies are becoming the main players. Let's take the International Space Station as an example. The government's space agencies built it together. But now it is getting old and scheduled to cease operation in 2030. So what will we place it? The US plans to leave the development to private companies. They are putting forward their pitches for new space stations. And NASA says one or even several of them could be picked to succeed the ISS.
Standing here, it feels like humans are eager to explore space in earnest. But how we do it may be shifting.

Does that mean that space development in general is leaning more towards private companies? 

Yes and no. It is true that private companies are becoming the main players for near-Earth activities, like orbiting space stations. But when it comes to destinations far beyond, like the moon or even Mars, governments are still leading the charge.

For years, the US has been spearheading this push. But now, other nations have been stepping up. In recent years, China and India have rapidly closed the gap with the United States. And countries that didn't have a space presence beforelike the UAE and Luxembourg, are here at the event as emerging nations.

With new players entering the space race, Humanity's future in the stars looks like it's up for the grab.

BUSINESS

And now let's see what's happening in the world of business. Here's Ramin Mellegard from The Biz Desk.

Thank you very much indeed. 

HEAD OF JAPANESE BUSINESS LOBBY RESIGNS AMID POLICE PROBE

Now, one of Japan's top business lobby says its chairperson has resigned. Niinami Takeshi is under investigation for purchasing supplements that may have contained an illegal substance.
The Japan Association of Corporate Executives said its board of directors accepted his offer of resignation at a meeting on Tuesday. The directors on the association's membership review committee had previously agreed that Niinami should be urged to quit. Niinami had already stepped back from his duties as the association's chief after the disclosure that he was the subject of a police investigation. He had left it up to the business lobby's board to decide his fate. Niinami's tenure as chairperson was due to expire in April 2027. The association says its senior vice chairperson, Iwai Mutsuo,will take over until a new head is chosen. Niinami resigned as chairman and CEO of Japanese beverage maker Suntory Holdings in early September after he informed the company of the police investigation. 

BOJ SUMMARY: POLICYMAKERS INDICATE RATE HIKE NEEDED

The Bank of Japan left interest rates unchanged in September, but a summary of the meeting shows more policymakers are leaning toward a rate hike in the near future.
The summary of opinions released on Tuesday comes from the BOJ's two-day policy meeting that ended on September 19th. Two policymakers at the meeting did propose raising the central bank's policy rate, but they were outvoted. However, the summary shows other policymakers indicated the bank will need to soon consider hiking interest rates. One member said Japan's economic conditions suggest Raising rates in the near future would be appropriate, saying it's been six months since the last increase. Another added that the bank could raise the policy rate to adjust the level of real interest rates because restraining factors from overseas are being resolved.

CYBER ATTACK FORCES BEER GIANT ASAHI TO SUSPEND OPERATIONS

Major Japanese beverage maker Asahi Group Holdings says its domestic operations remain suspended following a cyber attack on Monday. The brewing giant says it cannot tell when production and shipping will resume.
Officials say production of beer and other beverages was halted at many of its 30 plants across Japan due to a system failure as of Tuesday morning. The cyberattack occurred at around 7 a.m. on Monday, affecting group companies in Japan. The group has been unable to receive orders, ship products, and handle inquiries from customers.
Asahi says there has been no confirmed leak of personal information or customer data.
Company officials say the group is accelerating efforts to restore operations because a prolonged system failure could affect product supply. But they downplayed the possibility of a shortage of its drinks anytime soon, citing inventories held by wholesalers and retailers. 

JAPANESE ENTREPRENEUR BUILDS BUSINESS ON AFRICAN TALENT

Now, countries in Africa are attracting investment from around the world due to their growing populations. Much of it is for infrastructure projects and major sectors, such as health care. But one Japanese entrepreneur is tapping something else, human talent that he hopes one day will help drive the continent's development.

Noro Hiroyoshi operates an online school for computer programmers in the city of Yokohama.

Let's learn together the process of publishing a web application.

The students are Japanese, but their instructors are in African nations, such as Rwanda.
A student asks why the formatting of items on a web page appears to be wrong.
The instructor uses translation tools to understand the question and then checks the student's work.
After diagnosing the problem, the instructor writes an explanation in English that's converted to Japanese.

There are no problems communicating and writing. I believe the language barrier no longer exists. The African staff are indispensable to my company.

Noro started looking to Africa eight years ago. Whereas Japan's market was shrinking, he saw potential in a region where the population was growing rapidly.
He started holding online programming classes in Rwanda, where the government was promoting the IT industry. He then went on to over 10 countries on the continent. He hired some of his African students to work as his employees,Assigning them to support Japanese students and carry out programming tasks for his business.

Even though we are in, we are all working from different time zones, Nodasan does a really good job keeping everyone in the loop.

It's just most rewarding part of my work, just seeing growth and progress of the students.

Noro hopes his African staff will go on to build and expand the IT sector in their own countries. He also supports individuals who are tackling social issues in Africa.
One of them is Rwandan Ruzibiza Samantha.
She studied business administration at a Japanese graduate school and is now interning at Noro's company.
She has expressed interest in launching educational services for women, as these are lacking in her home country.

My hope is to actually um contribute to the developmentof my continent. I think if I was to be called, I would definitely help.

I want to build businesses that can make a social impact together with our African staff members.

MARKETS

Okay, let's go check on the markets.
♪
And that is it for business news.

IN FOCUS

We go over now to Shibuya Aki with Newsline in Focus, and we'll see a rare collaboration bringing together traditional noh theater and a modern manga story. 

NOH MEETS MANGA IN TALE OF HIDDEN LOVE

In August, a much-awaited production sold out every seat at the Kanze Noh Theater in Tokyo. Fans gathered for a very special combination of art forms.
Noh and Kyogen are classical Japanese performing arts that are often paired together with over 600 years of history. No is a musical drama that draws on history, mythology, and other traditions, told primarily through chant and dance.
Kyogen, by contrast, portrays ordinary life in the Middle Ages as comedy, and is driven largely by dialogue. Both feature stylized minimalist movement.
The director and star is Nomura Mansai, a renowned Kyogen performer also active in film and television. And in an effort to entice new fans to his ancient art form, he chose an unusual subject for the performance, a popular manga.

On the first day of rehearsals, leading performers from across Japan gather in Tokyo.
Nomura Mansai hails from a theatrical dynasty over 250 years old.
Under his leadership, the cast unites for this new endeavor.

Fitting the world of this manga comic into the form of no on the stage is a huge challenge for all of us, but we must try our best if we're really going to satisfy our audience.

The source material is called Hiizuru Tokuru no Tenshi, known in English as the Emperor of the Land of the Rising Sun by Yamagishi Ryoko. First published in the 1980s, it was a sensation in manga magazines for young women.

The protagonist is Prince Umayado, a historical royal from the 6th and 7th centuries who was later credited with major political reforms in Japan.
Amid a royal power struggle, the manga portrays Prince Umayado's unfulfilled love for a male aide through a mysterious poetic lens.
Nomoda felt that this imaginative world, which departs from history, could be brought to life through Noh's stylized simplicity.

In Noh and Kyogen,We don't explain everything.
Instead, we leave much of it to the audience's imagination.
The essence of no is maximum impact through minimal means.
I want people to feel that it's not hard to understand.
It's a space to play and imagine more freely.

One scene Nomura centers on surrounds the death of Omayado's father as spirits arrive to drag him into the afterlife.
To evoke the ominous advance of the spirits, he turns to the Kane, a small gong used in No and Kyogen.

I want it to sound dissonant. I need the combination to feel unsettling.

One challenge that goes beyond classical known performances. involves a key storyline from the manga.
A love scene between the prince and his aide is shown as a mystical experience, as if the two are ascending to the heavens together.
But in traditional Noh, direct expressions such as an embrace are never shown on stage. Nomura struggles with how to stage it. as the performance draws near.
In the end, he chooses to use this stage prop in a way not seen before in Noh.
As fans of the original manga fill the seats, the show gets underway.
The encounter between Prince Umayado and the aide is brought to life through Noah's distinctive dance and music.
The spirits creep closer to the Prince's father. And finally, the love scene.
The bond between the pair is expressed in silhouette.

Some people might find it too raw, but if they can feel that it was necessary, then I think that's fine.

I was deeply moved. The music and sound were beautiful and even beginners could follow it easily. They moved through the story much faster than the original, but it still came through clearly. That was wonderful.

I was glad to see how much the audience enjoyed it. For me, this is about expanding Noah's possibilities. and not waiting inside the Noh world, but reaching into an area such as comics that has built-in fans. I hope the audience's eagerness to see the world of the manga and our wish for them to experience Noh and Kyogen as classical theater can create a positive synergy.

Nomura says it's important to keep performing the classics while also creating new works that speak to today.
That's how Noh has survived for nearly 700 years. His production was so well received, a second performance has been scheduled for Tokyo in December. And that's all from me.

♪

WEATHER

It's time to check the weather with our meteorologist, Jonathan Oh. SoJonathan, signs of autumn are appearing in parts of western Japan. What can you show us? 

Hello, as we see the temperature starting to fall across Japan, suddenly saw a much cooler day and not just a place like Tokyo, but also places West as well.
I want to show you some video coming out of Hiroshima, where in the morning hours on Tuesday we saw this beautiful sea of fog appearing over the city. And it marked the arrival of autumn. In the morning the temperature dropped below 19 degrees Celsius and the combination of cool sunny weather and light winds created this stunning scenery. Now the fog was seen flowing through the mountain valleys since before dawn into the morning. Now if these same conditions continue that setup, the sea of fog can be seen appearing in the mornings. Until early spring. So yeah, it's a sign of autumn, but really more sign of the cooler months as we go forward in time.
High pressure is helping to bring down those temperatures and you woke up this morning, you're going, oh, it feels good, but it's going to get cooler for places like Tokyo as we go through the day. On Wednesday, what's happening is we have some moisture pushing on through for the eastern side of Japan. So the cloud decks in place, the rains in place and so it's going to feel more like normal for this time of year and Wednesday 23 for the high in Tokyo 21. In Sunday 22 Niigata, but places back for the West near 30, so we'll see those temperatures still keeping back up again as we go through the middle of the work week.
Meanwhile, across Europe, we have this kind of low pressure system across the eastern side of the continent with a ginormous high toward the north. That calm will bring in some really chilly air. We're talking about temperatures topping off at 10 in Moscow on Tuesday with rain from Warsaw and to keep Istanbul looking as a wet weather with a high of 22 as we go through Tuesday.
Quick note on North America, eastern side of the United States, we have this stationary front in place with a couple of systems offshore that's really bouncing against the front. So we're talking about a wet pattern going on forward through today on Tuesday. Look out for the coastal areas that go forward in time. Wet weather also for the Pacific Northwest for the day. 
Hope you have a good day wherever you are.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

HOKKAIDO TOWN PROMOTES SEASONAL SPECIALTIES

Before we leave you, people flocked to an event on Sunday in Hokkaido, northern Japan, to enjoy some autumnal delicacies.
The event is held annually in Oumu Town to promote seafood and other local cuisine.
Horsehair crabs and salmon were sold at the venue.
Visitors were able to take part in an auction and bid for seafood.

I made three bids at auction. I'm so glad.

Children also fished for salmon that were placed in a pool.

I was glad I got it into the basket and caught it. It looks fresh.

That's autumn really kicking in. That wraps up this edition of NHK News. We'll have more for you soon. Thanks for watching.

at 18:00 (JST), September 29

20250929180000_english_1.mp3

 Hello, a very warm welcome to NHK Newsline. I'm Yamamoto Miki in Tokyo.

WAR IN UKRAINE
EUROPEAN LEADERS CONDEMN DEADLY RUSSIAN STRIKES

A massive Russian drone and missile attack has left four people dead and dozens injured across Ukraine. European leaders have widely condemned the strikes.

NHK reporters in Kiev said they heard sporadic explosions through Sunday morning. They said the sounds were apparently drones being shot down.

Officials say a 12-year-old girl is among the dead. More than 70 others were injured. Ukraine says Russia launched 48 missiles and about 600 drones from Saturday to Sunday. The Polish embassy in Kiev was reportedly damaged by a missile fragment.

European leaders were quick to condemn the strikes. In a social media post, Finnish President Alexander Stubb called the attack brutal, saying it shows the true face of the aggressor. He also called for more EU sanctions to keep pressure on Moscow.

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Sakna echoed that appeal. He also called for more sanctions and tariffs, saying the isolation must be total.

EU member nations are getting ready to vote on new sanctions. They include plans to halt all imports of Russian liquefied natural gas by the end of next year. 

Now, US Vice President J.D. Vance says America is considering supplying Ukraine with long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles.

These would give Kiev the capacity to strike Moscow.

Vance told Fox News on Sunday that the US is looking at requests for the missiles.

He also revealed that Washington is considering providing the weapons through European nations. The US has reportedly permitted Ukraine to use American-made A TACMS missiles for attacks inside Russian territory. They can fly up to about 300 kilometers, while the Tomahawk's range is more than five times that. Vance's remarks apparently step up pressure on Russia, which has been refusing ceasefire and peace talks. The Vice President explained that President Donald Trump will make the final decision based on what's in the best interest of the United States of America.

IRAN OPPOSES NUCLEAR TALKS AMID UN SANCTIONS

Iran's president says he is opposed to nuclear talks with the West after the United Nations reimposed sanctions over its nuclear program.

Masoud Pazeshkian spoke at a cabinet meeting on Sunday. He said Tehran would not engage with the West unless sanctions are lifted or other steps are taken. But he said Iran remains ready for what he called logical discussions based on clear criteria.

The UN sanctions came to effect Sunday and were spearheaded by the UK, France and Germany. They claim Iran violated a 2015 deal by continuing its nuclear development.

But Western countries are still seeking a diplomatic solution. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called on Iran to resume direct talks with the United States. And within the country, there is growing concern that sanctions may drag down their already sluggish economy. Kazeshkian said the government intends to take necessary steps to support people's livelihoods.

'SNAPBACK' SANCTIONS MAY PROMPT MORE TO MOVE ABROAD

But still, the return of the sanctions could prompt more Iranians to leave the country. This agency in the capital files visa applications on behalf of clients eager to move abroad. The officials say the number of inquiries jumped more than five-fold after Israel and the US attacked Iran in June. The figure reportedly increased further when the process of reinstating the UN sanctions began in August.
One customer says she cannot see a future for herself in Iran. She notes the country has been in a prolonged economic slump.

I have been thinking about moving abroad for about three years, but now I'm giving the idea serious thought.

The agency says it receives up to 16-hundred inquiries a day.
It says the passports of some clients must be left out on a desk because there's not enough space and it's safe.

There hasn't been a surge like this over the past 10 years. Interest in emigration is linked to economic conditions. I think people want to go abroad because they see that as a way to improve their lives.

The official also notes the number of people who cannot obtain visas is expected to increase. He says that's because nations cannot afford to accept many immigrants from Iran.

SEVERAL DEAD AFTER GUNMAN OPENS FIRE IN US CHURCH

Now to the United States. At least four people are dead and eight injured after a gunman opened fire inside a church Sunday. Authorities say the suspect also intentionally set the building ablaze.
Police were called to the church in Grand Blanc, Michigan Sunday morning. The gunman crashed his vehicle into the front doors before shooting at those gathered inside. 

My hands are shaking. It's ten minutes down the road from where I live, my home. That's insane. 

Police say the suspect was shot dead by officers. He's been identified as a 40 year old man living nearby. His motive and other details are still not known. Police say the number of fatalities could rise. US media reported hundreds were in the church at the time. In a social media post Sunday, US President Donald Trump said the shooting appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians. He stressed the epidemic of violence must end immediately.

FOREIGN MINISTERS OF CHINA, N. KOREA REAFFIRM STRONG TIES

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has met with his North Korean counterpart, Chi Soni. The two are building on an earlier meeting between their top leaders. Wang and Che held talks in Beijing on Sunday.
Wang said arbitrary exercises of power are causing serious harm on the world stage. Those comments are seen as a shot at certain countries like the United States. He stressed China will cooperate with North Korea to address international issues. Che reportedly said her country is committed to deepening and developing ties with Beijing. This meeting comes on the heels of a recent summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The two held talks in early September. Wang reportedly said they reached an important consensus and drew up a blueprint for bilateral relations.
Beijing-Pyongyang ties are believed to have soured as North Korea boosted relations with Russia. This latest meeting is likely meant to showcase the strong bonds between China and North Korea. 

CHINESE EX-MINISTER SENTENCED TO DEATH WITH REPRIEVE FOR BRIBERY

Staying in China, a former agriculture and rural affairs minister has reportedly been sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve for receiving massive bribes.
According to Xinhua News Agency, Tang Renjian was handed the sentence on Sunday. The report says Tang accepted roughly 38 million dollars in bribes between 2007 and 2024.
Tang was removed from his post last year after he was placed under investigation by the Chinese Communist Party's anti-graft watchdog. Chinese authorities have been cracking down on corruption and other suspected crimes involving high-ranking government and military figures.

BUSINESS

Now let's see what's happening in the world of business. Here's Ramin Mellegard from the business. 

Thank you very much indeed. 

GOLD TRADES AT RECORD HIGHS IN JAPAN AMID SANCTIONS ON IRAN

Now, gold prices in Japan set new records on safe haven buying as the return of UN sanctions on Iran added to worries about geopolitical risk.
Tanaka Precious Metal Technologies says the retail sale price of gold hit a high on Monday, topping 20,000 yen a gram for the first time. That's close to $135.
On the Osaka Exchange, gold futures for delivery next August marks an intraday record, briefly trading at more than 18,400 yen per gram, or about $123. The contract breached the record set on Friday. Speculation the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates again is also fueling buying of the precious metal. 

HITACHI BOOSTS MID-CAREER HIRING TO BE MORE COMPETITIVE

Japanese electronics giant Hitachi says it's hiring more mid career staff than new graduates this fiscal year for the first time ever.
Hitachi plans to take on 930 people with prior work experience. That's more than three times. as many as five years ago and compares with a quota of 815 fresh graduates. The company is spearheading a change in the Japanese corporate practice of mainly hiring workers fresh out of university and training them from scratch.

The rapid pace of technological innovation means getting workers with relevant skills and experiences right away offers real benefits. We need to make sure these two approaches are well integrated. 

In the past, electronic electronics firms mainly focused on making home appliances and other consumer goods, but now they're increasingly diversifying into infrastructure and energy related businesses. And advances in technology, such as AI, mean they need workers with specialized knowledge and experience. Hitachi says it expects to continue the same recruitment policy for the time being. 

UK GOVT. TO SUPPORT JAGUAR LAND ROVER AMID PRODUCTION HALT

The British government is offering financial support to UK-based automaker Jaguar Land Rover to help protect its supply chain after a cyberattack halted production.
The government said Sunday it has agreed to underwrite a guarantee on a commercial loan to the Indian owned company of up to 1 1/2 billion pounds or $2 billion. Business Secretary Peter Kyle said the loan guarantee would protect skilled jobs across the country by helping to support JLR's supply chain. The car maker announced on September 2 that it had shut down its systems following a cyber attack.
The company later said it was extending the production pause until October 1. There has been concern that financing problems could affect the jobs of more than 100,000 domestic workers at parts suppliers.
British media say the production stoppage is costing JLR at least 50 million pounds, or nearly $67 million a week.

THE GREEN FUEL RACE: SHIPPING'S NEXT BIG COMPETITION

The global shipping industry emits as much greenhouse gas as Germany each year. to cut emissions, a UN agency has set a goal of net zero by 2050. Now, one promising solution is a new fuel called e-methanol, and the race to lead this emerging market is already underway. Inshka World's Harry Skinner has more.

This large container ship is operated by a leading Danish company.
And this May, it began operating on e-methanol.
E-methanol is made from two main ingredients. One is green hydrogen, created by splitting water with renewable energy. The other is carbon dioxide, captured from sources like biomass. Combined, they create a clean fuel that is considered carbon neutral.

This one is mainly, that's actually our methanol bunkering system. These two tanks is where we bunkered into today.

Though e-methanol costs several times more than regular methanol, it is easy to transport because it stays liquid at room temperature. 

The shipping is a hard-to-abate sector. This is a very viable pathway to decarbonize our business. 

The fuel powering the ship is produced by a Danish company. In May, it launched the world's first large-scale commercial e-methanol plant. Powered by a nearby solar farm, the facility can produce up to 40,000 tonnes annually.
A major Japanese trading company is also investing in the project.

There's growing global demand for low-carbon methanol. By leading early, we expect to gain a strong advantage in this market. 

The push for new fuels comes at a time when the International Maritime Organisation, a UN agency, approved measures to gradually cut emissions from ship　worldwide. And research is already moving beyond e-methanol. 

This is the tank area we have here where we have the different fuels that we are testing.

The Swedish company is running trials of about 10 different fuels from ammonia to advanced biofuels.
Finding green fuels that actually work in engines is a key step towards using them in the real world. 

We need all the fuels that we can get and this low-carb fuel, that would be one of them, I believe. New biofuels could be a way forward to decarbonise existing fleets. 

New marine fuels are emerging as a massive market. From Europe to Asia, companies are racing to lead the way, aiming to seize first mover advantages in the future of green shipping. Harry Skinner, NHK World.

HIROSHIMA OYSTER HARVEST DELAYED BY INTENSE SUMMER HEAT

Oyster farmers in Hiroshima say they will delay the season's harvest because record-breaking summer heat waves have slowed the growth of the shellfish.
Harvesting of the winter delicacy in the western Japanese prefecture usually begins on October 1st, but it will be put off by about three weeks. The same delay happened last year, also because of a scorching summer. Growers say the heat causes sea temperatures to rise above normal, which inhibits the development of the oysters. Hiroshima is Japan's largest producer of the seafood, accounting for about 60 percent of the country's total harvest.

MARKETS

Okay, let's get a check on the markets.
♪
And that is it for business news.

IN FOCUS

Now let's go to Shibuya Aki for New Sign in Focus. Today's report is related to the 2025 World Expo in Osaka as it enters its final stage. We'll be looking at a new type of material introduced at the event.

FROM DREAM TO CONCRETE REALITY

Among the major attractions at the World Expo in Osaka are unique structures built at the venue. One of them is made with a new type of concrete developed by a structural engineer in Okinawa. He got the idea behind the groundbreaking material from another World Expo held 50 years ago in the southern Japanese prefecture.

This pavilion at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka is called Live Earth Journey.
Its unique design incorporates cubes that resemble cells.
The structure is supported by new ultra-thin concrete materials.
The concrete from Okinawa is characterized by its lightness, high durability and easy processing.
It was developed by Ahogon Masaki from Nago City in the prefecture.

I tell people who come to see this material that it breaks the mold of conventional concrete.

Ahogon is an expert on structural design.
Visiting the Okinawa Expo held near his home 50 years ago made him want to become an architect.
This structure, known as Acquapolis, was built as a symbol of the event. The half floating offshore facility was 32 meters tall and 100 meters wide.
At the time of the Expo, Ahagom was a fifth grader in elementary school. The facility got him dreaming about a future in which people could live at sea.

By the time I became an adult. I had an image of the sea being used like this.
Acquapolis inspired dreams among many children like me.

But the inspirational structure would eventually be towed away and scrapped.
It was really sad, but it made me think that I had to try to realize that future.

Around that time, he was asked to create a new type of concrete.
To suit Okinawa's climate, he used carbon reinforcements instead of steel.
Steel reinforcement bars are vulnerable to salt damage. They can quickly deteriorate in Okinawa, which has frequent typhoons.
Using carbon eliminates the risk of rust.
And adding plastic fibers to the concrete made it more durable, allowing it to be shaped into thinner slabs.
As the material became easier to process, its range of uses expanded.
Ahogon and a local designer have collaborated on several projects, including this wall, inspired by Okinawan fabric. As well as this paneling, designed to block direct sunlight while allowing wind to pass through. It's used in buildings around Okinawa Prefecture.
Amid the development of his concrete, Ahogon received a request to design a pavilion for the 2025 World Expo in Osaka.
The place where he was inspired 50 years ago is now called Ocean Expo Park, home to an aquarium.

Being here brings back memories of those days. He reveals that he is starting to work toward realizing the future he imagined.
This undersea structure was made with his new concrete. It's part of a project by an organization under the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. The structure off Oita Prefecture is being used as a platform for marine ecology, such as cultivating algae. It's a continuation of Ahogon's dream. About the expanding possibilities of life at sea.

If my concrete is used for marine construction, I think it could someday help realize the sea-based world I imagined 50 years ago. I'm dreaming that this will become the first construction project of its kind to spread from Okinawa to the world.

A childhood inspiration can be so powerful. Just look how far Ahagon has come. And his invention is defining the concrete image of concrete itself. Ahagone's creation is not only innovative, it can also be reused. Once the 2025 World Expo in Osaka is over, the material from his pavilion design is due to be repurposed at educational facilities in Okinawa Prefecture.

And that's all for me.

GRAND SUMO TOURNAMENT
YOKOZUNA ONOSATO WINS 5TH TITLE AFTER PLAYOFF

Yokozuna Onosato has won the Autumn Grand Sumo tournament after a dramatic playoff. This is his first title since his promotion to sumo's highest rank.

Onosato was in the lead before entering the ring on Sunday.

He faced off with fellow Yokosuna Hoshoryu, who was only one win behind.

Onosato in an instant. We have a playoff.

And the playoff that followed was the first between grand champions in 16 years.

In low, left hand outside for Onosato takes him back and out.

Onosato has now won five tournaments, but this is his first title as a yokozuna. He said his stablemaster advised him not to overthink and to take on the bouts the way he always does.

ANCIENT DANCE DRAMA PERFORMED IN NARA

Masked dancers delighted spectators in Japan's western prefecture of Nara with a performance of a centuries-old dance drama called Gigaku. Nara was the country's ancient capital.
Gigaku is said to have been introduced to Japan from the Korean Peninsula about 1,400 years ago during the Asuka period. About 50 participants, including elementary school students, paraded through the streets of Asuka Village, where a project is underway to reenact Gigaku.
Some of them wore masks, representing the face of a bird or a lion.

I wonder if ancient people danced like us with this same feeling.

The dancers also performed on the grounds of the well known Ascadera Temple, which was built in the late 6th century.

♪

WEATHER 

And it's time for a check on the world weather with our meteorologist, Jonathan Oh. So Jonathan, we've seen tropical activity pick up in the western Pacific region. What's the latest? 

Hello, we have been seeing a little more activity when it comes to tropical systems in the western Pacific region in the northwestern portion of the Pacific Ocean and it looks like that we're going to continue to keep an eye on it as we go forward in time. Now we've been keeping eye out on what has been a tropical system that's now moving across the southeastern portions of Asia. Heavy rainfall impacting places like Vietnam and the surrounding area. We will see more heavy rainfall as we go forward in time. Going throughout the next couple of days as we have abueloi continue to make its way toward the West. 
Meanwhile, east of the Philippines, another low is developing, keeping an eye on that system and seeing where it's going to be headed as it slowly drifts toward the West.
Because the Philippines, you've been dealing with a lot of heavy rainfall with the monsoonal pattern and with these systems rolling on through, it's just caused more problems and so we have to watch out for that. Non tropical story, but a rain and a wind story as a cold front pushing through Japan extending back toward the Yangtze River basin in China as a stationary front.
We've been dealing with some heavy rainfall, some strong winds in the northeastern portions of Japan. Now as that front pushes out, we still have this instability with the low trying to redevelop. And so we may be talking about some more rain. And guess what, 30s from Tokyo, bye bye. It looks like we're going to talk about highs into the 20s as we go into Tuesday with a high 27 in Tokyo, rain to Shanghai with a high 27 as you go through Tuesday and Manila more rain with a high of 31. Meanwhile in North America east of there into the Atlantic, we have 1/2 named systems and particularly Imelda being so close to the Carolina coastline. We're looking at the possibility of real flooding concerns as we go throughout the next couple of days.
So make sure you keep attention to that.
A separate low pressure system up toward the Pacific Northwest bringing some wet weather into Vancouver and Seattle as it go through Monday with highs in the mid teens. Atlanta looking at some rain with a high of 27 as we go through today on Monday. 
Hope you have a good day wherever you are.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

And that's NHK Newsline for this hour.
I'm Yamamoto Miki in Tokyo. Thanks for staying with us.

at 18:00 (JST), September 28

20250928180000_english_1.mp3

 Welcome to NHK Newsline. I'm Gene Otani in Tokyo.

UN RESUMES NUCLEAR SANCTIONS AGAINST IRAN

United Nations sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program are back in force. The sanctions had been lifted under the 2015 deal that Iran signed with several world powers in exchange for curbing its nuclear program. But Britain, France and Germany said Iran has continued nuclear development in violation of the agreement and began procedures to restore sanctions on August 28. Once that process began, the UN Security Council had 30 days to adopt a resolution to prevent the return of sanctions. A resolution submitted by Russia and China was voted down on Friday. That means the sanctions came into force at the start of Sunday GMT at 9:00 AM Japan time. Measures imposed by the Security Council include a ban on uranium enrichment and reprocessing, as well as an arms embargo. Tehran has reacted sharply, saying that it will suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency. Some hardliners say Iran should withdraw from the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, raising concerns that the conflict with the US and European countries may deepen.
The impact on Iran's economy is not yet known. Many foreign companies. Have already pulled out of the country due to US sanctions imposed in 2018.
The Iranian government repeatedly stressed that the return of sanctions will have little impact on the nation.
The foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany have issued a joint statement. The three nations welcome the move by the UN and urge all states to fully abide by resolutions relevant to the reinstatement.
The statement says the reimposition of UN sanctions is not the end of diplomacy and urges Iran to refrain from any escalatory action.
It also stresses that the three nations will continue to work towards a new diplomatic solution to ensure Iran never gets a nuclear weapon.
The US government also welcomes the move in a statement released on Saturday. It praises Britain, France and Germany for what it calls an act of decisive global leadership. Washington is calling on Iran to resume suspended nuclear talks with the United States. The statement says President Donald Trump has been clear that diplomacy is still an option and that a deal remains the best outcome for the Iranian people and the world.

STAMPEDE AT INDIA POLITICAL RALLY KILLS AT LEAST 36

Authorities in southern India say a rally held by a political party on Saturday resulted in a stampede that killed at least 36 people, including eight children. The rally was held in the state of Tamil Nadu. The political party was founded last year and is headed by a film actor. Local media quote police as saying the attendees numbered about 30,000.
Police say the party leader was set to deliver a speech from a vehicle when the audience approached, setting off the Stampede. State officials say they will set up an investigative committee to look into the cause. India has often seen similar stampedes. In January, a Hindu event in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh ended in at least 30 deaths. 

PATIENT SPEAKS ABOUT STEM CELL SPINAL CORD TREATMENT

A man who received a stem cell therapy in a clinical study on spinal cord injuries, that is, in Japan, has spoken to NHK.

When I moved a little, I cried. I couldn't believe it.

The man was one of four patients who took part in the study. They had lost the ability to move their bodies due to injuries or other causes. Doctors derived cells from induced pluripotent stem cells, or IPSC's, and transplanted them into the patients. They later evaluated the degree of motor function recovery.
The man received the transplant two years ago and showed the greatest improvement among the four. He gained the ability to eat by himself with a spoon attached to his hand and to support his own weight. He is also practicing to walk.
Researchers from Keio University and other institutions say their study is the first in the world. to use the method to relieve symptoms of spinal cord injuries. The team reported in March that the participants had better results than others who had similar damage and only underwent rehabilitation. The man says rehabilitation is not easy as it involves a lot of pain and numbness, but he says he is working hard thanks to the encouragement of his loved ones.

People who want to do something should never give up hope.

Professor Nakamuna Masaya of Keio University notes that it was previously believed that once central nerve cells are damaged, they can never regenerate.

We are encouraged by the results of this study, and we want to have more cases in order to build evidence.

The team says it will conduct a clinical test to seek government approval to use the method. 

SUMMER-LIKE WEATHER PREVAILS ACROSS JAPAN

It is another hot day across Japan on Sunday with temperatures topping 30 degrees Celsius in both the east and west.
The Japanese, the Japan Meteorological Agency reported that temperatures before midday were 32.6 degrees in Amami Kagoshima Prefecture and 31.9 degrees in the Okinawa capital Naha in Toyota City Aichi Prefecture. The mercury hit. 30.3 degrees.

UNSTABLE CONDITIONS COULD BRING HEAVY RAIN

Meanwhile, rain clouds are developing over Kyushu due to warm, moist air being fed toward a rain front. The front is expected to move close to the main island, Honshu, bringing rain to western Japan. Unstable atmospheric conditions are expected from the north to the West overnight. Weather officials warn of flooding in low lying areas, landslides and swollen rivers, as well as lightning strikes. tornadoes and hail. 

JAPANESE CONDUCTOR WINS PRESTIGIOUS FRENCH COMPETITION

A Japanese conductor has won top prize at a prestigious music festival in eastern France.
29-year-old Yoneda Satoshi from Okayama Prefecture triumphed on Saturday after becoming one of three top contenders in the final round.
The Baison Seoul International Competition for Young Conductors is held once every two years.
For newcomers, winning is regarded as a gateway to success. Previous winners include the late maestro Ozawa Seiji, who passed away last year. In Yoneda's performance, he employed precise handling of the baton and dynamic movements of his full body. It drew enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Yoneda said the week-long competition was tough, but well worth the payoff.

For a musician, I think it is more joyful than anything else to produce good music, no matter what happens. I would be delighted if as many people as possible could share my music.

Yoneda is the 11th Japanese conductor to win the competition, and the first since 2019 

Let's take a look at the weather in rear part of the world.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

That's the news this hour. I'm Gene Otani, from all of us here at NHK Newsline to all around the world, thanks very much for joining us.

at 18:00 (JST), September 27

 

20250927180000_english_1.mp3

Welcome to NHK Newsline. I'm Gene Otani in Tokyo. 

LEE: N. KOREAN ICBMS COULD SOON REACH US MAINLAND

South Korean President Lee Jae-myeon has issued a warning about North Korea's nuclear weapons. He says the regime could soon have the US mainland within reach.
Lee was speaking about Pyongyang's intercontinental ballistic missiles on Thursday in New York. He says re-entry technology is likely the only remaining challenge. Lee says the North appears to possess enough nuclear weapons to sustain the regime, and he suggests that arsenal could grow by 15 to 20 per year if left unchecked. Lee expressed concerned about Pyongyang exporting weapons and stressed the need to pursue denuclearization in the long term. The North's leader, Kim Jong Un, was reportedly briefed earlier this month on an engine for a next generation ICBM. He also observed the final combustion test.

KIM STRESSES STANCE OF SECURITY THROUGH NUCLEAR FORCES

And staying with North Korea, Kim says ensuring peacekeeping and security by force with nuclear arms as its backbone is his country's invariable stance. North Korea's ruling parties. In North Korea's ruling Workers Party newspaper, Rodon Shimbun reported Kim's remarks made Friday at a meeting on the production of nuclear materials and weapons. He reportedly said steadily stepping up preparations for the country's. Nuclear response capability is a top priority and an unchangeable duty. The paper said Kim also called for an increase in the production of nuclear weapons ahead of the ruling party's Congress. 

A-BOMB SURVIVOR URGES NUCLEAR WEAPONS ABOLITION

An atomic bomb survivor from Japan has urged the abolition of nuclear arms at a high-level UN meeting. He stressed that human beings cannot coexist with nuclear weapons.

Leaders of nuclear-armed states, please engage in dialogue. As a hibaksha who survived to be 81 years old, I feel compelled to warn, with a sense of urgency, that those present in the meeting and all of humanity could become hibaksha.

A senior member of Nihon Hidankyo, Tanaka Satoshi, gave a speechIn a meeting at the UN headquarters in New York on Friday, it marked the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.
Nihon Hidankyo is a Nobel Peace Prize recipient. It represents survivors of the 1945 atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, who are known as Hibakusha.
Representatives of China, India and Pakistan, which possess nuclear weapons, also spoke at the meeting. China is said to have significantly enhanced its nuclear capability in recent years. The country's representative stated that China maintains its nuclear forces at the minimum level required for national security. In an apparent reference to the United States and Russia, he stressed that the nations possessing the largest nuclear arsenals bear special responsibility for disarmament.

TRUMP HINTS AT CEASEFIRE DEAL FOR GAZA

US President Donald Trump says he is close to securing a deal that will lead to a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, but specific details about the plan remain unclear. 

I think we have. Maybe a deal on Gaza, very close to a deal on Gaza. I think it's a deal that will get the hostages back. It's going to be a deal that will end the war.

Trump didn't mention the contents of the deal or detailed circumstances.
Earlier this week, Trump held a meeting with leaders and officials from Arab and Muslim countries in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.
US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff revealed that the Trump administration presented a 21-point plan for the cease-fire at the meeting. US media reports that one of the main principles includesthe release of all remaining hostages, a gradual Israeli withdrawal from the entire Gaza Strip end, a post-war plan that includes a governing mechanism in Gaza without Hamas.
Trump is expected to meet Prime Minister Netanyahu, who is visiting the US next week. They are likely to exchange views on the plan.

TRUMP TARIFFS
WH OFFICIAL: 15% AT MOST ON JAPANESE PHARMACEUTICALS

President Trump plans to impose a 100% tariff on some imported drugs starting on Wednesday, but a White House official says this won't apply to Japanese pharmaceuticals, and a levy will likely be set at 15% at most. 

The official made the comment on Friday in response to an NHK inquiry. Japan and the US released a joint statement on tariffs earlier this month. It said Washington intends to apply a rate to Japanese pharmaceuticals that is no greater than that applied to goods from any other country. This would follow a concept known as most favored nation status. 

The US agreed in trade talks with the European Union that a new tariff on pharmaceuticals and some other products would not exceed 15%. The White House official apparently meant the maximum levy on Japanese products would not be greater than this figure. The Trump administration is expected to announce details on new tariffs shortly, including those on Japan. 

ISHIBA TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA NEXT WEEK

Outgoing Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru is set to visit South Korea next week for a summit with President Lee Jae-myung.
Government officials in Tokyo say Ishiba will begin the two-day trip on Tuesday as part of mutual visits between the leaders of both countries. Lee made his first trip to Japan as president in August. Ishiba and Lee are scheduled to meet in Busan. They will likely discuss ways to deepen cooperation. Their agenda is also expected to include shared challenges, such as population decline and over-concentration in the Japanese and South Korean capitals. Ishibai and Lee will likely confirm that the two countries will work together to ensure the success of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum starting next month in Gyeongju, South Korea. Ishiba aims to reaffirm that Japan and South Korea will maintain close communication and strengthen relations before handing over to the next administration. This year marks the 60th anniversary of normalized relations between the two countries.

♪

HIGH HOPES FOR HAIRY CRABS IN EASTERN CHINA

Hairy crab season is underway in eastern China, and people in the seafood industry hope rising tourism numbers will lead to a bumper year.
Fishers were busy hauling high-quality Chinese mitten crabs from Yangcheng late near Shanghai on Friday as officials marked the start of shipments. The delicacy is also known as Shanghai hairy crabs.

This year's crabs are rich in raw and full of meat. I hope overseas visitors will come to enjoy the authentic Shanghai hairy crabs.

More than 3.2 million people visited Shanghai from overseas in the first half of 2025. The number rose partly due to. Visa free measures for foreigners on short stays and is near the level seen before the coronavirus pandemic. The crabs will be in season until winter. They are mainly shipped within China, but some are exported to Japan, Southeast Asia and other regions.

Those were the main stories for this hour.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

That's the news this hour. I'm Gene Otani. From all of us here at NHK Newsline to all around the world, thanks very much for joining us.

at 18:00 (JST), September 26

 

20250926180000_english_1.mp3

Thank you for joining us. From our studio here in Tokyo, this is NHK Newsline.

MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT
TRUMP WILL 'NOT ALLOW' ISRAELI ANNEXATION OF WEST BANK

US President Donald Trump says he's against an Israeli annexation of the West Bank. Arab countries are sounding the alarm over potential plans to take over the territory. 

I'm not allowing Israel to annex the West Bank. There's been enough. It's time to stop now.

The West Bank has long been under Israeli occupation, but the area is home to many Palestinians and constitutes Palestinian territory, along with the Gaza Strip.

Some in Israel have been calling for annexation. The Palestinian side says that would threaten a potential two-state solution. The Wall Street Journal said Trump's recent comments were a rare escalation of pressure on Israel, as it continues to expand its offensive in Gaza.

And it comes just days after Trump met with the leaders of Arab countries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

He reportedly proposed a broad ceasefire plan at that meeting. The move to recognize Palestinian statehood has recently gained momentum among some countries, including Western nations.

MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT
ABBAS CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE IN GAZA

Now, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. He spoke at the United Nations General Assembly...

and thanked members who recently recognized Palestinian statehood.

Abbas delivered his address via video on the third day of the general debate. The United States refused to give him a visa to enter the country. He criticized Israel throughout the speech.

What Israel is carrying out is not merely an aggression. It is a war crime and a crime against humanity that is both documented and monitored, and it will be recorded in history books.

Palestinian health officials say the death toll in the enclave has risen to over 65,000, and Abbas pointed to the suffering there.

I speak to you today after almost two years in which our Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip have been facing a war of genocide, destruction, starvation, and displacement waged by the Israeli occupation forces.

In addition to calling for an immediate and permanent end to the war in Gaza,He said humanitarian aid should be allowed entry without conditions.

Abbas also criticized the October 7th attacks led by the Islamic group Hamas.

He called on the UN to support efforts by the Palestinian Authority to reform and conduct presidential and parliamentary elections within a year after the end of the war. He stressed that Hamas will not have a role to play in governance.

Some countries that have recognized Palestinian statehood are calling for the Palestinian Authority to be reformed and for Hamas to be excluded from elections.

MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT
ISRAEL CONTINUES GAZA STRIKES

Meanwhile, on the ground in Gaza, the Israeli military has continued its offensive against Hamas. The attacks reportedly included a deadly strike on a home where evacuees were taking refuge.

An Israeli media outlet reported Thursday that the country's air force had struck more than 170 targets throughout the Gaza Strip over the previous 24 hours.

It said the targets had included what they termed terrorists, as well as weapons depots.

Palestinian news agency Wafa said Israeli forces bombed a home in the central Gaza Strip on Thursday, while displaced people were sheltering there.

It said 11 people died in the attack.

Over 20 people, including nine children, were reportedly killed on Wednesday when buildings in Gaza City that were housing displaced people were bombarded.

MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT
ISRAEL ATTACKS HOUTHI TARGETS IN YEMEN

Separately, the Israeli military said on Thursday that its aircraft had struck Houthi military targets in Yemen's capital, Sana'a. Houthi anti-government forces pledged solidarity to Hamas.

The Israeli military added that it will conduct additional offensive operations against the Houthi regime in the near future. The announcement comes after at least 20 people were injured in a drone attack by the Houthis on the southern Israeli Red Sea resort of Eilat on Wednesday.

WAR IN UKRAINE
ZELENSKYY: TRUMP BACKS STRIKES ON ENERGY TARGETS

Ukrainian President Volodino Zelenskyy says the US backs Kiev's plan to strike Russian energy targets. He's also asking Washington for more long-range weaponry. News site Axios released the interview on Thursday.

Zelenskyy says if they get the weapons, they will use them. And he says that should serve as a warning to leaders in Moscow. They have to know where they are. bomb shelters are. If they will not stop the war, they will need it in any case. But he says his forces will not target Russian civilians because, in his words, we are not terrorists. And he dropped a hint about his future, saying he's ready to step down as president after they finish the war. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev issued a reaction on social media. He says his forces could use weapons that a bomb shelter won't protect against. He warned Americans to keep this in mind.

Zelensky's interview comes just days after he met with Trump at the UN headquarters.

RUSSIAN GASOLINE SHORTAGES EXTEND EXPORT BAN

Ukrainian drone strikes appear to be having an impact at the Russian gas pump.

Gasoline shortages in some regions prompted the Kremlin to extend its ban on gasoline exports.

The shortages began in the Russian Far East and other areas last month. They've since spread to the western regions.

Some gas stations have run dry in areas near Moscow. Russia's statistics service said the average retail price of gasoline rose 10 percent for the year through August. Reuters reported about 17 percent of Russia's petroleum refining capacity was lost after attacks by the Ukrainian military last month. 

TRUMP URGES TURKEY'S ERDOGAN TO STOP BUYING RUSSIAN OIL

Meanwhile, the US president has called on Turkish President Rajiv Tayyip Erdogan to stop buying Russian oil. It's part of his push to cut off funds for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Trump made the remarks during talks with Erdogan at the White House on Thursday. I'd like to have him stop buying any oil from Russia while Russia continues its rampage against Ukraine. Trump also said he hopes Erdogan can play a mediating role between Russia and Ukraine. President Erdogan is very respected by both of them. I think he could have a big influence if he wants to. Trump criticized China and India for buying Russian oil in his speech at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday. He said they are supporting the war by doing so. He added that NATO member nations have not reduced energy imports from Russia either... and demanded action.

UKRAINE TURNS TO JAPAN FOR WAR RECONSTRUCTION SUPPORT

Now, Ukraine, battered by years of Russian missile attacks and bombings, is asking Japanese companies to invest and help in rebuilding efforts.

The Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce in Japan and other organizations held a forum in Tokyo to explain investment opportunities.

Businesses are relocating to safer regions in Ukraine. New supply chains are being built from the ground up.

Large-scale reconstruction initiatives in forms of build back better and build back greener are already underway.

A government official outlined various types of preferential treatment for investors, including tax relief.

As a company, we want to contribute to the rebuilding of Ukraine.

So we decided to take part in this event and hope we can find some opportunities.

One estimate compiled by the World Bank and others says it will cost 524 billion dollars to rebuild Ukraine over the next decade.

JAPAN POLICE ARREST CHINESE DRIVERS WITH FAKE TAIWAN LICENSES

Police in Tokyo have arrested two Chinese tourists who they believe used fake Taiwanese driver's licenses when trying to get permission to drive in Japan.

Police said the two suspects obtained the fake Taiwanese licenses through a Chinese online shopping site... and believe one of them drove a rental car in Japan.

The two are reportedly denying the allegations. Driver's licenses from Taiwan can be used in Japan. But the user must apply for a Japanese translation. Police say these applications were illegal because the licenses themselves were fake, and these were the first such arrests anywhere in Japan.

FORMER FRENCH PRESIDENT SARKOZY SENTENCED TO 6 YEARS IN PRISON

A French court has sentenced former President Nicolas Sarkozy to five years in prison for criminal conspiracy. The French media say he will become the first former president of modern France to go to jail. He was found guilty of allowing his associates to obtain or try to obtain funding from Libya for his 2007 presidential bid.

Sarkozy had been charged with offenses, including corruption, for allegedly receiving illicit contributions from then-Libyan leader Muammar al-Qaddafi.

However, the court acquitted him of other charges, including corruption, citing insufficient evidence. I am innocent. This injustice is a scandal. And I will not apologize for something I did not do. He added that he will naturally appeal.

He is expected to be imprisoned in the near future, even if he appeals.

DANISH PM APOLOGIZES FOR FORCED CONTRACEPTION IN GREENLAND

Denmark's prime minister has apologized to women in Greenland who were the victims of a government birth control campaign, mostly during the 1960s and 70s.

Matej Frederiksen visited Greenland's capital, Nuuk, on Wednesday. Her apology follows recent revelations that women in the autonomous territory have been fitted with intrauterine contraceptive devices... largely without consent. Why? Dear women, dear families and dear Greenland, today there is only one right thing to say.

Sorry. Sorry for the wrongs committed against you because you were Greenlandic.

Sorry for what was taken from you and for the pain it caused on behalf of Denmark. Sorry.

She added that Denmark would have to open the darkest chapters in its history with Greenland if it hoped to build an equal relationship with the territory.

Greenland's public broadcaster reported that more than 4-thousand women had been given IUDs by the end of 1970. That figure is reportedly half the population of Greenlandic-born women of childbearing age at the time. The alleged purpose of the program was to limit population growth. The Danish government says it wants to create a fund to provide compensation to the victims. The scandal could increase support for independence in Greenland, which is already high among residents.

BUSINESS

Now let's see what's happening in the world of business. Here's Gene Ohtani from our biz desk. Kyoko, thanks. In our top business story this hour, 

AMAZON TO PAY $2.5 BIL TO SETTLE CLAIMS IT CHEATED CUSTOMERS

Amazon has agreed to pay $2.5 billion to settle allegations that it deceived users into joining its Prime subscription service.

The US Federal Trade Commission said on Thursday it had reached a settlement with the e-commerce giant. The FTC filed a lawsuit in 2023. Claiming that the firm knowingly duped millions of consumers into unknowingly enrolling in its Amazon Prime service while emphasizing its free shipping benefit, the regulators also allege that Amazon also knowingly complicated the cancellation process for Prime subscribers. Under the settlement, Amazon will pay $1 billion as a civil penalty and provide $1.5 billion in refunds for an estimated.

35 million affected customers.

The settlement also acquires requires rather Amazon to simplify the prime cancel. process. Amazon released a statement saying the firm and its executives have always followed the law, and the settlement allows them to move forward and focus on innovating for customers.

TRUMP MOVES TIKTOK US OPERATIONS UNDER AMERICAN CONTROL

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to approve the transfer of TikTok's US operations to a joint venture in the country.

The order says the venture will be majority owned and controlled by United States persons. The decision leaves China's ByteDance and its affiliates with less than 20% of the venture.

ByteDance is the developer of the popular video sharing app. US operations of the app's algorithm Code End content moderation will also fall under the joint venture. Local user data will be stored in a cloud run by a US company. Vice President J.D. Van says the new US company will be valued at around $14 billion.

Oracle, I guess, is going to be a very play a very big role in terms of security, safety and everything else. So Trump says that Chinese President Xi Jinping also approved the deal.

TRUMP TO IMPOSE 100% TARIFF ON IMPORTED DRUGS

President Trump has announced another round of tariffs, this time taking aim at the pharmaceutical industry.

Trump announced on social media Thursday that some imported drugs will be hit with a 100% levy from next Wednesday. He said companies building manufacturing plants in America will be exempt. The 100% tariff is on any branded or patented pharmaceutical product. US media say low-cost generics could be spared. The pharma tariffs were part of a raft of new levies on items ranging from heavy trucks to kitchen cabinets. bathroom vanities, and upholstered furniture. 

BIZ PICKS

Now, NHK World's Yanaka Marie is here with BizPix.

CHINA'S SUPPLY GLUT, PRICE SLUMP ADD TO ECONOMIC ALARMS

Let's take a look at the business and economic stories we'll track in the week ahead. On Wednesday, the Bank of Japan releases its closely watched quarterly survey of business sentiment. On Friday, the US announces job figures for September.

Nonfarm payrolls in August rose by 22,000 from the previous month, but the gain was far below market expectations.

And on Tuesday, China's National Bureau of Statistics releases the Purchasing Managers Index for September. The index is a gauge of sentiment in manufacturing and service industries. In August, manufacturing activity dipped belowthe expansion-contraction line for the fifth straight month. The trend shows us how China's property market slump and US import tariffs are dragging on the economy. This week on BizPigs, we're taking a look at China and the structural challenges the country faces.

Professor Fukumoto Tomoyuki of Osaka University of Economics says the country's economy faces a slump in demand at the same time as supply capacity is climbing.

The main reason for weak demand is the prolonged slump in the property sector.

Prices have fallen and investment has shrunk over the past four years. Local governments that relied on land sales and related revenue are also hurting.

Households that hold homes as assets are spending less. Weak demand would normally lead to lower production, but competition with the US is driving China to build its own supply chains.

This is causing capacity to expand.

Fukumoto stresses that the imbalance between supply and demand is leading to competition that's hurting China's economy.

Domestically, excessive competition is wearing down companies and eating into profit margins, driving prices on a downward spiral. Producer prices have been negative for nearly three years, while consumer prices are hovering near zero. This raises deflation concerns, which could in turn further weaken overall demand.

Fukumoto says this development is now causing trade tensions.

Fierce domestic competition pushes companies to sell overseas. This boosts exports and gradually creates trade friction, not only with developed countries, but also with emerging economies.

The Communist Party of China will hold its Central Committee Fourth Plenary Session in October to discuss the next five-year economic plan through 2030. Fukumoto says the critical challenge for Beijing is to implement policies to stabilize the property market and to bring supply in line with demand to counter the deflation threat. I'm Yanaka Marie, and that wraps it up for this week's Biz Picks.

Marie, thanks. All right,

MARKETS

let's have a look at the markets.

♪

And that's a look at business news.

Kyoko, I'm going to hand it back to you.

Right. Thank you for that, Gene.

FLAVORS TO LAST BEYOND A LIFETIME

Now, local restaurants are a flavorful part of any community. But as time goes by, many establishments face a succession crisis and more than the menu is lost when they close their doors for the last time. However, a new concept has emerged to ensure that regional recipes live on. We take a closer look in this next report.

Located in central Tokyo, this restaurant is known for featuring dishes from local diners across Japan that are at risk of disappearing.

The recipes come from restaurants that have either closed down or may soon go out of business.

Its menu offers dishes with a home-cooked flavor that local restaurant owners have proudly served for generations.

What a unique concept. I love having the chance to try local dishes from all over the place.

Takagi Kazuko now serves as an advisor to the restaurant. She and her husband used to run a small cafe together, but she closed it down shortly after his passing. The restaurant's menu also features Takagi's famous crab coquettes.

Takagi usually just eyeballs things when making them, but for the sake of consistency, the restaurant staff take detailed notes on everything.

If something comes out not tasting right, it's almost impossible to know where things went wrong. So we don't just follow the cooking instructions. We even use the exact same kitchenware.

It was my husband's recipe, so I'm thrilled to know that it's going to live on.

This diner is located on the outskirts of Takasaki City.

Since opening 53 years ago, it's been a popular place for college students to gather and grab a hearty meal.

Oyama Mizue prepares every dish by herself.

Fried chicken cutlets smothered in tomato sauce is her signature dish.

Loaded with bell peppers and onions, she wanted to make sure that growing young students would eat plenty of vegetables.

It's like coming home for a meal. The food tastes just like mom's cooking.

Oyama's sister, Nobuko, also helps out at the diner. Recently, however, health issues have been both feeling a bit worried about the restaurant's future.

We want to keep it going as long as we possibly can.

Amidst the uncertainty, Oyama decided to sell her recipe to the Tokyo-based restaurant.

In exchange for the recipes, the originators are paid 5% of the sales the restaurant makes from their dishes. The food looked so good, I forgot to take a picture.

Okubo Nobutaka came up with the idea of offering a menu full of unique local dishes. With more and more major chains offering mass-produced food, he thinks there's value in niche menus with limited offerings. I think there's demand for things that chain restaurants can't offer, and that includes handmade dishes that take a lot of time and effort to prepare.

Meanwhile, back in Takasaki, Oyama says that providing her recipes has also resulted in a new type of customer visiting her diner. They'll come in and say things like, 'I tried your dish there and it was so good. I absolutely had to come here to try the original. I think it's great that recipes from tiny shops from out in the middle of nowhere are now being served in the big city.

And that is great legacy the original local customers can appreciate.

WEATHER

And now, a check on the world weather. An active storm has been affecting parts of the Philippines. Our meteorologist Yu Mihirano has the details.

Powerful Storm Buoloy made landfall in the eastern Bissayas. Strong winds and intense downpours have caused severe damage.

The disaster agency said more than 50-thousand families had to leave their homes for safety. At least 14 people died and at least 17 are injured. The local power company says its workers are working to restore electricity to thousands affected by the storm. The storm is expected to affect not only the Visayas but also the Luzon area Friday night.

Gusts of over 110 kilometers per hour and downpours of more than 200 millimeters are still possible. The system is expected to move away from the country on Saturday and then will approach southern China and northern Vietnam by Sunday.

The area has already received downpours from Storm Ragasa this week.

Additional rainfall could cause flats and landslides. Further north, high-pressure systems are likely to cover eastern China, the Korean Peninsula and Japan, so sunny skies are expected in Seoul and Tokyo with highs of 28. Heat is still a concern in Taiwan, where recovery efforts from Ragasa continue. The high in Taipei will be 35.

Dry weather is likely to return to Manila. Finally, in Europe, a couple of systems are expected over the Atlantic. One is former hurricane Gabrielle. It's expected to move towards the Ibellian Peninsula over the weekend, bringing heavy downpours.

And isolated thundershowers are still likely over Italy and the Balkans.

That's it for now. Stay safe.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

That's all for this edition of NHK Newsline. Thank you very much for watching and hope you'll join us again.

at 18:00 (JST), September 25

 

20250925180000_english_1.mp3

Great to have you with us. From our studio here in Tokyo, this is NHK Newsline. 

SHOOTING AT TEXAS ICE FACILITY LEAVES 1 DEAD, 2 INJURED

A shooting at an immigration detention facility in the southern US state of Texas has left one person dead and two others injured.
Authorities said the gunman targeted an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Dallas on Wednesday. They said he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound... and rounds with anti-ICE messages written on them were found near the scene. Investigators are looking into the suspect's possible motive. The Department of Homeland Security said the three victims were detainees. It said the suspect fired from a nearby building toward the facility's entrance. In July, another ICE facility near Dallas was targeted. That prompted authorities to step up security measures.
US President Donald Trump described the latest shooting as despicable in a social media post. He said the attack was the result of radical left Democrats who demonize law enforcement and compare ICE officers to Nazis. He called on them to stop this rhetoric against ICE. Some US media noted that such claims were not backed by evidence... as officials have released little information about a possible motive.

CHINA UNVEILS NEW GREENHOUSE GAS REDUCTION TARGETS

Chinese President Xi Jinping is highlighting his country's efforts to tackle climate change. He announced new targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Xi was among leaders of around a hundred countries and regions who took part in a United Nations climate summit.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged countries to tackle climate change immediately. 

It is still possible to limit global temperature rise to 1-point-5 degrees by centuries' ends.

The United States did not take part. In a speech to the UN General Assembly the previous day, President Trump described climate change as the greatest con job ever perpetrated on the world. The Chinese president appeared to have the United States in mind.

The international community should stay focused on the right direction, while some countries are acting against it. 

Xi said China will cut economy-wide net greenhouse gas emissions by 7 to 10 percent from peak levels by 2035 

TYPHOON RAGASA LEAVES 14 DEAD, 33 MISSING IN TAIWAN

Taiwanese authorities say 14 people have been confirmed dead as of Thursday afternoon, and 33 are unaccounted for due to Typhoon Ragasa.
The powerfold storm dumped torrential rain on Taiwan's eastern region, causing a barrier lake in Hualien County to overflow. In Hualien, recovery work has started in areas where the water has receded. Residents are now removing mud from roads and buildings.

My refrigerator was floating inside like a boat.
My car was also drifting like a toy.

Firefighters and military personnel are continuing search and rescue operations.
Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru expressed his condolences to the victims and bereaved families on acts in Japanese and Chinese. He said he prays that the people of Taiwan will be able to return to their normal lives as soon as possible. 

6 INJURED AFTER MOBILE BATTERY SPARKS FIRE IN TOKYO

Here in Japan, six people were injured after a mobile battery set a Tokyo apartment building on fire.
Firefighters were called to the building in Tokyo's Suginami Ward shortly before 2 AM Thursday. They say it took two hours to extinguish the blaze.
The six victims were taken to hospital for smoke inhalation and other minor injuries. Their conditions are not believed to be serious. Among them is a teenaged girl who told officials a mobile battery sparked the blaze. She said she was sleeping with her smartphone plugged into a mobile charger. Then, she suddenly heard a booming noise... and saw her room was on fire.
Mobile batteries were responsible for several recent fires in Tokyo. The city's fire department says there were over 140 such cases in the first half of the year,... a new record.

JIMMY KIMMEL SHOW BACK ON AIR DESPITE PRESSURE FROM TRUMP

American late-night host Jimmy Kimmel is back on air, despite pressure from the Trump administration. The program had been suspended over his on-air comments in relation to the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

That it was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man.

I don't 

Kinnell also indicated that Washington is putting pressure on the media. He urged the audience to speak out even louder if a similar attempt happens again.
The Walt Disney Company, parent company of US broadcaster ABC, brought back the program amid increasing debate about government pressure on the media and free speech. President Trump expressed dissatisfaction in a social media post and hinted he might sue ABC. CNN said this is another crystal-clear example of Trump using his government power to pressure media.

PLEA BARGAINING TO BE EXPANDED TO CASES OF PHONE FRAUD

NHK has learned that Japanese prosecutors plan to expand the use of plea bargaining to help track down the ringleaders in telephone fraud and other scams. The system allows prosecutors to forego indictments or seek lighter sentences if suspects cooperate with investigations into the crimes of others, such as accomplices.
Under the law, plea bargaining can be applied to crimes such as bribery and fraud. But there have been fewer than 10 cases since the system was introduced in 2018.
Starting in October, the Supreme Public Prosecutors' Office will expand it to cases involving attempts to swindle individuals using phone calls or social media. Losses from telephone fraud totaled nearly 72 billion yen, or about 483 million dollars last year,... a record high. Prosecutors apparently want to use plea bargaining to obtain smartphone data and testimony to help catch the ringleaders. 
But an expert and former judge warns there are risks to this approach.

There are risks of involving people who are innocent. Perpetrators may also shift their own crimes onto others involved in the incident.

Professor Misno says the challenge for prosecutors is to back up the information they obtain with hard, extensive evidence to uncover the ringleaders.

LDP LEADERSHIP CANDIDATES TALK POLICY AT DEBATE

Candidates vying to lead Japan's main governing Liberal Democratic Party have presented their pitches for the country's future. They also touched on their approach to relations with the US We take a closer look in this next report.
The Japan National Press Club hosted the five candidates on Wednesday for a debate. Kobayashi Takayuki says he wants to make people feel that hard work pays off. He says support for the working population and people in the middle class will lead a society to grow and strengthen further.
Motegi Toshimitsu says he will produce results that people want. He says he will carry out swift and effective policies. including measures to address rising prices and getting rid of the provisional tax on gasoline. 
Hayashi Yoshimasa says he will open the door to the future with his experience and achievements. He says that while the situation surrounding Japan is not right, he will focus on unity and overcome it.
Takaichi Sanei says she will bring about economic growth through strategic investment in crisis management. She says the global trend is for public and private investment to minimize various risks. 
Koizumi Shinjiro pitches economic management that addresses inflation, abolishing the provisional tax on gasoline, and raising the basic deduction from taxable income in line with price and wage increases.
The debate had a foreign policy and security portion. They discussed topics including how they would deal with President Donald Trump's administration.

By cultivating cutting-edge technology, Japan will become an indispensable country for the USI believe that this approach is important. We will enter the competitive field of AI and robots. We should allocate sufficient funds for research and development.

China is America's biggest challenge. I think it's important to emphasize that Japan is the most important partner for the United States in dealing with China. And to demonstrate a willingness to work together with the US.

there's a strong possibility that another administration with similar thinking will emerge after President Trump. We should manage Japan, US relations based on that premise. Japan, China relations must be built up based on that premise.

Along with the Japan, US alliance, we should deepen the Japan, US, Korea and Japan, US, Philippines relationships. Concerns do exist about Japan's relations with China, and I intend to approach this issue with a stance of straightforward dialogue. 

If I become Prime Minister and party president. I would like to meet with President Trump as soon as possible. I believe implementing the results of the tariff negotiations will be extremely important in building a win-win relationship in our alliance.

Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru triggered the party's presidential race this month after announcing his decision to resign. Becoming LDP leader does not guarantee becoming Prime Minister. The lower and upper houses of the Diet decide that. And the ruling coalition does not have a majority in either chamber.
Noda Yoshihiko heads the largest opposition group, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan. He indicated his intention to begin talks as early as next week with other parties, with the aim of cooperating in the vote for the new Prime Minister. Noda added that it's important to make efforts to find some common ground among opposition parties.
Such as measures against rising prices and issues related to politics and money.
Campaigning in the LDP's leadership race lasts 12 days in total. Voting day is set for October 4.

BUSINESS

Now we're going to look at what's happening in the world of business.

Here's Gene Otani from The Biz Desk.

Kyoko thanks in our top business story this hour. 

BEER MAKER ORION IS OKINAWA'S 1ST PRODUCER TO GO PUBLIC

A beer brewer based in Okinawa Prefecture has been listed on the top-tier prime market of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. TSC officials say the IPO on Thursday by Orion Breweries is the first for a maker from the Japanese southern prefecture.
Orion President Murano Hajime marked the occasion at the stock exchange. The IPO price of Orion's shares was 850 yen, but it had no opening price in the morning session because of an overwhelming number of buyers. The shares first traded at 1,863 yen later in the afternoon and ended the session at 1,950 yen.
Japan's fifth largest beer brewery was founded in 1957. Today, it holds a dominant share and position in the Okinawan market. Japanese securities giant Nomada Holdings and the US-based investment fund Carlyle acquired Orion in 2019. The company aimed for an IPO by improving profitability through the development of new products and enhanced online sales. Company officials hope the listing will raise its brand recognition. 

I hope to take advantage of this listing to enter the global market. We'd like to bring happiness to more people around the world by delivering Orion beer.

The brewery says it will grow its overseas sales. the United States and Taiwan have seen strong growth. People in Okinawa generally welcome the IPO.

I always drink Orion. It tastes good. I hope the IPO will help bring more tourists to Okinawa.

I'm so happy to see an Okinawa based company getting attention from across the country. I hope t-shirts and other licensed goods will help the brand grow.

The company also plans to strengthen the foundation of its beer and tourism related businesses in the prefecture, capitalizing on demand from tourists from overseas. 

BOJ MINUTES: SOME POLICYMAKERS IN JULY SUGGESTED RATE HIKE

Minutes of the Bank of Japan's July board meeting show that some policymakers believed that the BOJ should consider hiking interest rates in the near future. The meeting followed an agreement between Tokyo and Washington to reduce US tariffs from those originally proposed.
The BOJ decided to keep its policy interest rate unchanged at the two-day meeting through July 31. The minutes were released on Thursday. They reveal a meeting focused on how the new tariff measures would affect the Japanese economy. The notes show that some policymakers said the BOJ should move cautiously on a rate hike. One member said the central bank should wait for more data to come in before making policy decisions. Another believed that if the US economy were able to withstand the impact of its own tariff policy to a greater extent than expected, then downside effects to the Japanese economy would likely remain minimal. That scenario would make it possible for the BOJ to exit its current wait and see stance, possibly by the end of the year at the earliest. 
The Bank of Japan decided to keep its policy rate on hold at the latest policy board meeting earlier this month, but two members opposed the decision, proposing a rate hike instead.

TAPPING INTO STRENGTHS OF TOHOKU STARTUPS

Global firms like Netflix and Uber began as startups with unique products and services. Moves are now underway to tap into such innovative companies in Japan's. Tohoku region, which was hit by a massive earthquake and tsunami in 2011. NHK World's Yamada Nana reports.

US venture capital firm Pegasus Tech Ventures held a preliminary competition for the startup World Cup in Tohoku for the first time in August.
This Silicon Valley firm has invested in more than 280 companies across the globe. Ten startups from Tohoku and elsewhere in Japan pitched their ideas.

We hope to turn Japanese farming into a growth industry. 

We started from the challenge of making the reality in the quake-hit region more visible.

One participant was Azul Energy, based in Miyagi Prefecture. CEO Ito Koju co-founded the firm six years ago with Tohoku University.
They aim to promote the shift to clean energy by learning from the 2011 nuclear facility disaster.

This beautiful blue solution is the Asul catalyst that we are developing.

Azul means blue in Spanish.
Ito says the catalyst was developed by Chance during research on blue pigments.
It's an alternative to some critical minerals used in battery technology.
Azul Energy's research is tied to the global spread of generative AI.
The rapid data crunching of high-performance AI systems puts heavy loads on storage batteries.
So, an inexpensive catalyst that can enhance battery performance is useful indeed.

I hope our product can contribute to the creation of a carbon-neutral or recycling-based society.

Ito watched one of his staff making a presentation at the competition.

Do you know the real energy challenge that AI creates? 

The presenter said the firm has acquired a patent portfolio for its catalyst technology, which has gained international attention. She added that the goal is sales of more than 1.6 billion dollars in 2040. Let's grow tomorrow's energy together.

And then, the results are announced.

Azul Energy Deshita! Congratulations! 

With its victory, Azil Energy joins the Startup World Cup 2025 final in San Francisco in October.

We will emphasize that we are going to change the world with a new material created at Tohoku University.

They have very hardcore technology. It's a deep tech company, and I think deep tech is what Japan is good at. I think they will do well. 

The Tohoku firm, with its sustainable energy solutions, now has a chance to claim the grand prize of $1 million in investment. Yamada Nana, NHK World.

NIKKEI 225 SETS RECORD HIGH FOR 3RD DAY

All right. The Tokyo stock benchmark Nikkei 225 closed at a record high on Thursday for the third consecutive trading day. 

MARKETS

Let's have a look at the markets.

♪

And that's a look at business news.

Kyoko, I'm going to hand it back to you.

Thank you for that, Gene.

S. KOREA'S CLIMATE WHIPLASH BRINGS FLOODS, DROUGHT

Now, this summer, South Korea suffered two very different climate crises.
Some regions were inundated with record rainfall, leading to deadly floods and landslides. In contrast, a prolonged drought gripped the northeastern city of Gangneung. NHK World's Kim Chan-jo tells us how people coped with the situation. 

Oobong Reservoir supplies nearly 90 percent of Gangneung's water. This summer's drought catastrophically reduced its capacity to under 15% at one point, leaving local people anxious about their water supply for over three months.
Drought conditions are not unusual in the area. But after water levels hit their lowest point in decades, officials were compelled to introduce rationing. Authorities first reduced the household water supply by 50 percent in mid-August.
By September, restrictions intensified to 75 percent.

When I turn on the faucet, this is all I get. Some laundry stays unwashed. I can't take a shower even in the summer heat. Everyday life has become very uncomfortable.

Businesses were urged to cut consumption. This cafe saved tap water when washing utensils and used disposable cups.

I used to think water was unlimited, something we could always take for granted. Now I realize how valuable it truly is. Even money cannot guarantee it.

Farmers were also worried. One grower predicted rice yields could fall by more than 30%.

Water shortage is my biggest concern. For the first time, this irrigation canal has been completely dry for over a month.

At the end of August, President Lee Jae-myung visited Kangyung and declared a state of disaster. 

You're asking us to declare a state of disaster. If it's possible and necessary, let's do that.

This move authorized the government to mobilize personnel, equipment and emergency supplies. Fire trucks, tankers and helicopters from across the country began delivering nearly 20,000 tons of water a day. The government distributed the bottled water to about 200,000 Kanglin residents, with each person receiving 2 liters daily.
Elsewhere, the opposite was true. Between July and August, torrential rain triggered floods and landslides, killing two dozen people. Property damage was estimated at over $750 million. Why is Gangnan different? One expert says a phenomenon known as the Fern Effect is to blame. The Tebek Mountains, up to 1,500 meters tall, are preventing rain clouds from reaching the city. He says other factors are at play, too.

In the Gangneung region, there are very few reservoirs compared to other areas.
The amount of running water is limited in a small area, but a large population needs it. Plus, the amount of water needed for agriculture and tourism is increasing. 

Gangneung's beach and mountains make it a popular summer tourist destination. It attracts millions, and numbers have been rapidly increasing due to the recent development of railways and highways. But this summer, the city recorded just 190 millimeters of rain, less than one-third of its seasonal average. Record high temperatures accelerated the water shortage. Thankfully, recent days have seen the drought greatly eased thanks to the return of the rain.

The Obong reservoir has recovered to the 60% level. The state of disaster in Kon Nun City was officially lifted as of 6:00 PM on Monday.

The mayor has pledged to prevent a recurrence, but government efforts may not be sufficient to prevent droughts and flooding. The reality is that these hardships are now more frequent and extreme due to climate change.

Kim Chan-ju NHK World.

WEATHER

And now for world weather, we go back to the powerful storm Ragasa that's left the trail of disaster in parts of Asia. Our meteorologist Yumi Hirano has the details.

Ragasa made landfall in China's Guangdong Province on Wednesday, bringing heavy downpours and gusty winds. The system has also caused significant damage in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong began cleaning up on Thursday after Typhoon Ragasa. The storm prompted Hong Kong to issue its highest typhoon warning twice. The last time a storm triggered a double warning was in 1964. Authorities received more than 1,200 reports of fallen trees and over 20 reports of flooding. The hospital said more than 100 people were injured.
The storm is moving westward along China's Guangxi and Yunang areas and may reach northern Vietnam, and total rainfall could reach 450 millimeters in parts of Vietnam, possibly causing floods and landslides. And Ragasa is not the only issue facing this region.
Another storm is now approaching the central Philippines and it's likely to head toward southern China early next week. The system is expected to intensify further and bring stormy conditions and high storm surges to the Bisayas, so people there should watch out for fresh flooding. 
Moving to Japan, parts of Hokkaido experienced stormy conditions on Thursday. Gusts of around 100 kilometers per hour were reported due to developing low pressure and frontal systems. But conditions are expected to improve as the systems move away, and a high pressure system is likely to cover much of the country gradually on Friday. 
Sunny skies are expected in Tokyo with a high of 31, summer white conditions are coming back. 
And heat is also a concern in Taipei, with a high of 34.
That's it for now. Stay safe.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

That's all for this edition of NHK News Line. Thank you for watching and hope to join us again.