at 20:00 (JST), April 20 AS

Japan's opposition parties are boycotting Diet deliberations after the government refused their demand that Finance Minister Taro Aso resign.

エラー 2042

The Meteorological Agency is keeping access restrictions in place for Mount Io in southwest Japan, after the volcano erupted on Thursday for the first time in 250 years.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20180420200000_english_1.mp3


Key words : opposition boycot
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180420_14/

Japan's opposition parties are boycotting Diet deliberations after the government refused their demand that Finance Minister Taro Aso resign.

The ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito says it will carry on deliberations regardless.

The largest opposition Constitutional Democratic Party and 5 other parties are demanding Aso step down.

They want the finance minister to take responsibility for alleged sexual harassment by a top bureaucrat and the falsification of official documents by ministry officials.

On Friday, the opposition parties met and confirmed that they will seek Aso's resignation.

They also demanded the summoning of key figures as sworn witnesses in an alleged favoritism scandal, in a bid to clarify the truth and normalize Diet operations.

Most female lawmakers who attended the gathering wore black clothes to protest the alleged sexual harassment by the ministry' top bureaucrat, who announced his resignation this week.

Meanwhile, 2 Lower House committees met on Friday morning with only members of the ruling coalition and Nippon Ishin attending.

The ruling parties plan to go ahead with Diet deliberations despite the opposition boycott.

Key words : Aso listen no intention
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180420_17/

Japan's Finance Minister Taro Aso says his ministry will listen to what TV Asahi has to say about the alleged sexual harassment of one of its female reporters by a top bureaucrat. Aso says he has no intention of stepping down himself.

Aso was speaking to reporters in Washington, where he is attending a G20 finance meeting.

He said he knows that TV Asahi has sent a letter of protest to the ministry. He said he takes the protest seriously and that it is necessary to listen to the broadcaster's side of the story as a first step of the ministry's investigation. The interviews will be carried out by lawyers.

Aso said it is still unclear whether a weekly magazine's article about the case is accurate.

He said the ministry must look into what happened because the context of the alleged harassment is not clear, and Administrative Vice Finance Minister Junichi Fukuda denies the allegations. Fukuda tendered his resignation on Wednesday, saying it is difficult for him to perform his duties.

Asked about his responsibility for appointing Fukuda, Aso said he has no intention of resigning himself.

Key words : education minister
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180420_15/

Education minister Yoshimasa Hayashi says his ministry has discovered an email it received 3 years ago in relation to a controversial project to open a private veterinary school in Ehime Prefecture, western Japan.

Hayashi told reporters on Friday that the ministry had found the email sent by the Cabinet Office on April 2nd, 2015. Ehime prefectural officials visited the prime minister's office on that day to discuss the project.

Last week, Ehime Governor Tokihiro Nakamura said a prefectural official had created a document about the meeting to discuss a project by Kake Educational Institution to open the vet school. The school operator is headed by a close friend of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Hayashi earlier said the ministry did not have such a document.

The newly-discovered email says that Ehime officials, representatives of the school operator and others visited the Cabinet Office on April 2nd, 2015, to meet a senior official in charge of regional revitalization.

The email states that on the same day the Ehime officials were to meet Tadao Yanase, who was the prime minister's secretary at the time.

Hayashi also revealed that an education ministry official was contacted by a colleague at the prime minister's office before the visit to ask what the ministry thought about the plan to open the school.

Hayashi says he believes all those involved will do their best to explain the matter.

The Ehime document quotes Yanase as saying the school project was a "matter related to the prime minister."

Yanase says he did not meet the Ehime officials as far as he can recall.

Key words : central bank meeting lasted
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Key words : north decision-making
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180420_19/

North Korea's ruling Workers' Party is believed to have held a plenary meeting of its decision-making Central Committee for the first time in 6 months on Friday.

The country's leader, Kim Jong Un, may have presented specific plans for a summit with US President Donald Trump that could be held by early June. Kim is due to meet South Korean President Moon Jae-in next Friday.

The state-run Korean Central News Agency reported on Thursday that the Central Committee will convene to discuss and decide policy issues on a new level, in line with the demands of important historic developments.

At a meeting of the Workers' Party Politburo last week, Kim reportedly assessed the outlook for inter-Korean relations and dialogue with the US.
It was revealed this week that the CIA Director and Secretary of State nominee, Mike Pompeo, met Kim during a secret visit to Pyongyang.

Kim has given speeches on important policies at previous plenary meetings of the Central Committee.

In March 2013, he launched the "byongjin" policy of advancing nuclear and economic development at the same time. Last October, he promised to uphold the policy and called for speeding up the development of nuclear weapons and missiles.

Key words : outbreak
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180420_20/

An outbreak of measles in the Japanese prefecture of Okinawa is affecting local tourism ahead of the spring holiday season.

Okinawa officials say that by Thursday, 65 people had been confirmed infected with the disease. The outbreak started when a male tourist from Taiwan tested positive on March 20th.

The officials also say more than 170 people have cancelled trips to Okinawa.

The prefectural government is receiving about 30 inquiries a day from people and travel agencies about where infections are rampant and how to protect against the virus.

Prefectural official Masaru Itokazu says it's deeply regrettable that the outbreak started before the holiday season, but that the prefecture will give people accurate information.

Some schools in Okinawa are cancelling classes.

The prefectural government plans to hold an emergency meeting of all its division chiefs on Monday.

Measles causes high fever and rashes. It can be fatal for infants and toddlers, and may result in miscarriages.

Key words : Insight what's behind latest measles outbreak
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Key words : meteorological keeping
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180420_10/

The Meteorological Agency is keeping access restrictions in place for Mount Io in southwest Japan, after the volcano erupted on Thursday for the first time in 250 years.

Mount Io is part of the Kirishima Mountain Range, which straddles Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures in southwestern Japan.

Agency officials said on Friday that the eruptions stopped early in the morning, but that the volcano continues to spew white smoke.

The officials said the eruption of Mount Io was the first to be observed since 1768.

They kept the volcanic alert level at 3 on a scale of 1 to 5, and restricted entry to the mountain.

The agency said it has been detecting volcanic tremors since Thursday that indicate movements of underground gases and superheated water.

The officials warn of the danger of falling rocks and pyroclastic flows within a 2-kilometer radius of the crater.
Local authorities have also banned entry into the area.

Key words : Abe Son
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180420_23/

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Softbank CEO Masayoshi Son are on Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people of 2018.

Abe was included in the US weekly's list for the first time in 4 years.

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull writes that Abe's "confident and dynamic leadership has revived Japan's economy." He also praises Abe's contribution to the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade pact.

US President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un also made the list.

Masayoshi Son is described as one of the rare people who sees where the world is going more clearly than others.

In the category of pioneers, Time named 5 student survivors of February's mass shooting in Florida who are appealing for stricter gun control regulations.

Former US President Barack Obama praised them in his commentary. He wrote that "they have the power so often inherent in youth: to see the world anew; to reject the old constraints, outdated conventions and cowardice too often dressed up as wisdom."

at 20:00 (JST), April 19 AS

Japan's Prime Minister and US President have agreed to maintain the maximum pressure on North Korea.

Finance ministers of the G7 countries say maximum economic pressure will continue to be applied to North Korea.

The Meteorological Agency says an eruption has occurred at Mount Ioyama in southwestern Japan.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20180419200000_english_1.mp3


Key words : prime agreed maximum pressure
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180419_14/

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and US President Donald Trump have agreed to maintain the maximum pressure on North Korea until the country takes concrete steps for denuclearization. The 2 leaders also agreed to create a new framework to discuss trade and investment.

Abe and Trump held a joint news conference on Wednesday at the president's Florida retreat, after wrapping up their 2-day summit.

Abe said the North Korea situation is at a historic turning point, thanks to President Trump's decision to hold the first US-North Korea summit.

Trump said he will be meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the coming weeks to discuss the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

He expressed hope that the meeting will be a success, and said he is looking forward to it.

But Trump added that he will walk away if the talks are not fruitful.

Abe said they had discussed various scenarios in detail and carefully coordinated their policies on the North.

He stressed that Japan and the US, together with the international community, will demand that North Korea scrap its nuclear arsenal and other weapons of mass destruction, as well as its ballistic missiles, in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner.

Abe said North Korea should not be rewarded simply for agreeing to dialogue. He said they reaffirmed their commitment to maintain the maximum pressure on the North until it takes concrete steps toward denuclearization.

On the abductions of Japanese nationals by North Korea, Abe said Japan and the US will continue to work closely together to bring all the abductees home.

He said if North Korea heads in the right direction, there could be a settlement of issues of the unfortunate past based on the 2002 Pyongyang Declaration between Japan and North Korea, and the way could be opened to diplomatic normalization. The declaration calls for settling all pending issues between Japan and North Korea before the 2 countries normalize ties.

Trump said that during his visit to Japan last fall, he met with the families who endured the terrible heartbreak of having their loved ones abducted by the North Korean regime. He said he wants to see these families reunited as soon as possible.

Trump added that they're going to do everything possible to have them brought back to Japan.

On bilateral economic issues, Abe said trade and investment between the 2 countries will be further expanded for mutual benefit.

He said they agreed to launch talks on free and fair reciprocal trade to achieve further economic development in the Indo-Pacific region.

He revealed that Japan's Economic Revitalization Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer will begin talks under a new framework.

Trump referred to Japan being one of the targets for the steel and aluminum tariffs he imposed last month.

He said the US will consider exempting Japan if the 2 countries can reach a new agreement that would cut the US trade deficit.

Trump said he does not want to go back to the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade pact unless there is a deal that he cannot refuse on behalf of the US. He said he prefers bilateral negotiations.

Key words : mother of abductee
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180419_21/

The mother of a Japanese abductee has expressed hope that the summit between the leaders of the United States and North Korea will lead to progress in resolving the issue.

Sakie Yokota's daughter, Megumi, was a teenager when she was abducted by North Korean agents in 1977.

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he will do everything possible to have the abductees brought back to Japan. He was speaking at a joint news conference after 2 days of talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Trump had earlier said he will bring up the abduction issue when he meets North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Asked about Trump's comments, Yokota said she now has hope that something may happen after many years of no progress on the abduction issue.

She said the families of the abductees are aging and there isn't much time left. She said she wants President Trump to negotiate with the North and make the country return all the abductees.

Touching on the fact that more than 40 years have passed since her daughter was taken from her, she said she hopes Trump will tell North Korea that it cannot gain international trust as long as it disregards the value of human life.

Yokota said she also wants Trump to tell the North that real peace can be achieved if it chooses to change course.

Key words : finance minister G7
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180419_06/

Finance ministers of the Group of Seven countries say maximum economic pressure will continue to be applied to North Korea.

The ministers made the remarks in a statement issued on Wednesday.

They say they will jointly seek to make North Korea abandon its nuclear and missile programs in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner.

The statement expressed concern about North Korea's evasion of international sanctions.

It says North Korea uses a network of agents, front and shell companies to access the international financial system.

They add that regulatory authorities will look into financial institutions in G7 member countries so that they will not act on behalf of North Korea's firms which are on the sanctions list.

Key words : Insight prevent school shooting
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Key words : meteorological eruption
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180419_27/

The Meteorological Agency says an eruption has occurred at Mount Ioyama in southwestern Japan, spewing volcanic rocks around the crater.

The agency says the volcano erupted at 3:39 PM on Thursday, local time.

Mount Ioyama is one of the volcanoes in the Kirishima Mountain Range, which straddles the border between Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures on the island of Kyushu.

Agency officials have raised the volcanic alert level to 3 on a scale of 1 to 5, and they are urging people to stay away from the mountain.

They are also warning of the danger of falling rocks and pyroclastic flows within a 2-kilometer radius of the crater.

Key words : vice finance allegation anyone
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180419_19/

Japan's Administrative Vice Finance Minister has once again denied allegations of sexual harassment, one day after he expressed his intention to resign.

The outgoing top bureaucrat at the Finance Ministry, Junichi Fukuda, told reporters on Thursday he is stepping down because he finds it difficult to carry out his duties under the current circumstances.

In the early hours of Thursday, TV Asahi held a news conference and revealed that an employee is one of the female reporters who claim to have been abused by Fukuda. The broadcaster said the employee had handed an audio recording of her conversation with Fukuda to the publisher of a weekly magazine that ran the story about the alleged misconduct.

Fukuda said the recording doesn't include what the other party says. He said that anyone who listens to the entire conversation would understand that his remarks don't amount to sexual harassment.

He stressed that he is resigning because it is difficult for him to perform his duties, and the alleged sexual misconduct is not the reason.

Key words : Japanese winner
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180419_25/

The Japanese winner of the Boston Marathon says he will turn professional next year. Yuki Kawauchi is known as the "civil servant runner" because he has a full-time job with the Saitama prefectural government.

The 31-year-old athlete overcame tough weather conditions with his trademark tenacity to win the Boston Marathon on Monday. He became the first Japanese man to win the race since Toshihiko Seko in 1987.

Kawauchi announced his plan to turn pro after arriving at Narita Airport near Tokyo on Thursday.

He told reporters he was speechless with joy to see the Japanese flag against the backdrop of the Boston sky. He said it was one of the best things he has ever seen.

Kawauchi said he has been competing while working as a civil servant, but he thinks he won't be able to set a new personal record unless he changes his current circumstances.

He said he wants to compete with the world's top marathon runners, so he will quit his job when the current fiscal year ends next March.

Kawauchi is scheduled to run in a half-marathon in Gifu, central Japan, this coming Sunday. He is also likely to take part in overseas races in June and July.

Key words : new baggage
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180419_30/

A new baggage-screening system that is better at detecting bombs has started operation at Haneda airport in Tokyo.

The system is a part of efforts to beef up Japan's counter-terrorism capabilities ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.

The system installed at the airport's international terminal employs computed tomography, which is widely used in medical imaging.

It enables inspectors to view baggage from various angles on a screen.

Explosives are displayed in red to make it easier for operators to spot them.
The new system is expected to allow airport officials to spend less time opening up luggage for inspection.

Also installed in the baggage inspection area is a so-called "smart lane," which allows passengers who are ready for inspection to move ahead of others who are not.

The transport ministry aims to introduce similar systems to other airports across the country by 2020.

A senior ministry official said the ministry wants to make the screening process more stringent and smoother in the run-up to the 2020 Games.

at 20:00 (JST), April 18 AS

US President Donald Trump has told Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe that he plans to raise the issue of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea at a planned summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

South Korea's top security official says Seoul will pursue a permanent peace agreement on the Korean Peninsula in place of the current armistice with North Korea.

Japan's administrative vice finance minister is to step down over reports that he made sexually suggestive comments to female reporters.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20180418200000_english_1.mp3


Key words : US president has told Abe
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180418_19/

US President Donald Trump has told Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe that he plans to raise the issue of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea at a planned summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Abe and Trump began 2 days of talks at Trump's private retreat in Florida. One-on-one talks with interpreters were followed by another meeting with a limited number of participants.

At the onset of the second meeting, Abe said he was able to have in-depth talks with Trump on the economy and North Korean issues.

Trump said the US will raise the abduction issue at his summit with Kim. He vowed to do his best to bring out the best possible outcome for Japan.

Trump also said 5 locations are under consideration for the historic summit with Kim. He said the US is having direct talks with North Korea at "extremely high levels."

Abe referred to military action on Syria by the US and other countries. He said the use of chemical weapons is extremely inhumane and Japan simply cannot tolerate it. He said Tokyo supports the resolve of the US, France and Britain that they will never allow the spread and use of chemical arms.

Key words : representative group of
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180418_23/

The representative of a group of families of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea has expressed hope for the US-North Korea summit expected to be held in early June or before.

US President Donald Trump said he will raise the abductions issue when he meets North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Shigeo Iizuka said on Wednesday that he hopes that the US President would not only talk about the issue, but also work to obtain a promise from Kim to return the abductees.

79-year-old Iizuka's younger sister, Yaeko Taguchi, is listed as one of the abductees. He said Trump should start the negotiations from the point of how to return Japanese citizens who are under North Korean control, instead of having another investigation by the North.

Iizuka said he hopes that the Japanese government will not miss this rare opportunity and work out a detailed strategy to allow the return of the abductees.

Key words : Trump likely demand
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180418_28/

US President Donald Trump is likely to demand that Japan negotiate a bilateral free trade agreement when he meets with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for their second day of talks on Wednesday.

On Tuesday, Trump tweeted that he doesn't "like" the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade pact, which he withdrew the US from soon after taking office. He tweeted about his unwillingness to return to the TPP.

Trump wrote, "While Japan and South Korea would like us to go back into TPP, I don't like the deal for the United States."

The president said he favors a bilateral free trade agreement, describing such a deal as "far more efficient, profitable and better" for American workers.

Trump is hosting Abe at his private retreat in Florida.
The two leaders discussed North Korea and other issues on their first day of talks on Tuesday.

Trump promised that he would raise the issue of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea at a planned summit with the country's leader, Kim Jong Un.

Before Tuesday's talks, Trump said that "Japan is buying a tremendous amount of military equipment from the US." He also said that the US is "buying a lot of cars and a lot of other things from Japan." He added the countries "still have to talk about trade, and that the prime minister understands that."

Trade issues are expected to be on the agenda for the second day of talks on Wednesday.
White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow suggested to reporters that the US would like to negotiate a bilateral free trade deal with Japan. He is scheduled to attend the Abe-Trump meeting on Wednesday.

Key words : south top security
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180418_31/

South Korea's top security official says Seoul will pursue a permanent peace agreement on the Korean Peninsula in place of the current armistice with North Korea.

National Security Office chief Chung Eui-yong made the remark on Wednesday after US President Donald Trump voiced hope that an inter-Korean summit planned for late April would lead to an official end to the Korean War.

He suggested that his earlier discussion with White House national security advisor John Bolton may have served as a basis for what Trump said.

Chung met Bolton in Washington earlier this month. He said they held in-depth discussions on ways to create a permanent peace through such measures as banning hostile acts on the peninsula.

They also discussed how to ease North Korean concerns about the security of its regime.

Chung stressed that Seoul will work with the Trump administration to bring about permanent peace through planned summits between the 2 Koreas and between the US and the North.

A high-ranking official from South Korea's presidential office said it remains to be seen whether any agreement to be reached at the inter-Korean summit would include wording about ending the war.

But the official expressed hope that a deal to end hostile acts between the 2 Koreas will be part of the agreement.

Key words : senior official return
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180418_25/

A senior official of China's ruling party has returned to Beijing from North Korea, where he's believed to have made arrangements for a visit to Pyongyang by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Song Tao, the head of the Chinese Communist Party's International Department, returned to Beijing on Wednesday by chartered flight.

Song had been in Pyongyang since last Friday with a performance troupe sent to North Korea as part of an agreement made at a summit last month to promote cultural exchange.

During his stay, Song held several meetings with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

North Korea's ruling party newspaper Rodong Sinmun on Wednesday featured a photo of the 2 men shaking hands.

Kim reportedly promised efforts to increase mutual political trust and improve China-North Korea relations.

Song is said to have attributed the troupe's visit to the special friendship and consideration of the 2 countries' top leaders.

He and Kim reportedly exchanged views on strategic bilateral cooperation.

Xi and Kim agreed at their summit in Beijing last month on Xi's visit to North Korea. The country and China are strengthening ties ahead of the North's planned summits with South Korea and the US.

Key words : Insight issue of blocking
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Key words : finance minister step down
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180418_36/

Japan's administrative vice finance minister is to step down over reports that he made sexually suggestive comments to female reporters.

Finance Minister Taro Aso told reporters on Wednesday evening that his deputy Junichi Fukuda said it has become impossible for him to fulfill his official duties.

Aso said he accepted Fukuda's resignation.

Key words : seven JtB rental
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Key words : NHK stock
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180418_27/

NHK has learned that the operator of a popular app used for buying and selling goods in Japan is expected to be listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

Mercari could make its debut on the TSE's section for start-up firms Mothers as early as June this year.

Sources say the company's market capitalization could exceed 200 billion yen, or more than 1.8 billion dollars. That would make it one of the biggest initial public offerings of the year in Japan.

Mercari has been growing rapidly since its launch 5 years ago. It was one of the first in Japan to offer a flea market app for consumers to buy and sell their used items.

The TSE's screening of Mercari has been slow going, due to issues with some of the offerings through its app. A number of users offered to sell cash and other questionable items. But Mercari has stepped up preventive measures, including clarifying sellers' identities.

at 20:00 (JST), April 17 AS

Japan's Prime Minister has departed for the United States to hold talks with US President Donald Trump ahead of the planned US-North Korea summit.

US President Trump plans to have his top trade officials join the upcoming summit with the Japanese prime minister. His national security team will take part in talks on North Korea.

Leaders of the G7 countries have expressed full support for the coordinated air strikes in Syria by the United States, Britain and France.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20180417200000_english_1.mp3


Key words : prime departed
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180417_17/

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has departed for the United States to hold talks with US President Donald Trump ahead of the planned US-North Korea summit.

Before leaving Tokyo on Tuesday afternoon, Abe told reporters that he wants to confirm with Trump their cooperation on issues such as North Korea and the economy, as well as the strength of their bilateral alliance.

Abe also said he wants to confirm that the 2 countries will work together to make North Korea abandon its nuclear and missile programs in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner.

Abe added that the abduction issue, involving Japanese nationals taken by the North's agents decades ago, is very important. He vowed to do his best in talks with Trump to ensure that the meeting between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will make progress toward resolution of the issue.

Abe and Trump are scheduled to meet at the president's retreat in Florida on Tuesday and Wednesday local time.

They are expected to play golf as they did during Trump's visit to Japan in November last year.

Key words : Trump trade official
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180417_23/

US President Donald Trump plans to have his top trade officials join the upcoming summit with the Japanese prime minister. His national security team will take part in talks on North Korea.

Trump arrived on Monday at his Florida retreat, where he will host Shinzo Abe on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The president announced that Vice President Mike Pence and National Security Adviser John Bolton, a hardline conservative, will attend the meetings.

The 2 leaders are expected to discuss how to deal with North Korea, and reaffirm their plan to maintain maximum pressure on the nation to denuclearize.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow will be joining the 2 leaders' discussions on trade.

Trump recently pointed to Japan as one of the friendly nations with which the US trade deficit is worsening. He stressed his determination to cut the deficit.

Trump has been demanding that Japan open its automobile and agricultural markets. He also wants to start negotiating a free trade agreement between the US and Japan.

Key words : Insight significant upcoming summit
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Key words : G7
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180417_20/

Leaders of the Group of 7 industrialized countries have expressed full support for the coordinated air strikes in Syria by the United States, Britain and France.

The G7 leaders issued a joint statement on Monday. In it, they said they are united in condemning, in the strongest possible terms, the use of chemical weapons in Syria by the government of President Bashar al-Assad.

They also gave their full support to efforts by the US, Britain and France to degrade the Assad regime's ability to use chemical weapons and to deter any future use.

They called the military response limited, proportionate and necessary.

They said it came only after every possible diplomatic option to uphold international norms against the use of chemical weapons had been exhausted.

They called the use of such weapons a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention and a threat to international peace and security.

They said the Assad regime's repeated use of chemical weapons has been confirmed.

And they condemned what they called the deliberate strategy to terrorize local populations and force them into submission.

Russia and China have harshly criticized the missile attacks, calling them illegal and unacceptable.

Key words : US commerce
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180417_21/

The US Commerce Department has banned a Chinese telecom-equipment maker from buying American components.

Department officials said on Monday that ZTE violated an agreement both sides reached in March last year.

The agreement was put in place after officials found that ZTE was illegally exporting telecom equipment to Iran and North Korea.

The Chinese company agreed to pay large penalties. It also agreed to cut bonuses to employees involved in the illegal exports. But US officials said ZTE did not fully reduce bonuses and made false statements to the Commerce Department.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said in a statement that ZTE misled the department and its behavior cannot be ignored.

The latest measure is expected to be a major blow to ZTE. It could worsen the trade row between the United States and China.

Key words : Taiwan left
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180417_25/

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen has left for the African nation of Swaziland to strengthen bilateral ties amid China's growing influence on the continent.

Tsai left Taipei on Tuesday for a 5-day trip to the southern African country.

Some African countries have cut off diplomatic relations with Taiwan while China, touting a "One China" principle, expands its economic and military influence in the region.

Taiwan has diplomatic ties with 2 African nations -- Swaziland and Burkina Faso in the west. That's down from 8 in 2000.

Tsai has vowed efforts to win support for Taiwan's position, saying that going out into the world will give Taiwan a boundless future.

China's military plans to hold a live-fire exercise in the Taiwan Strait, near Fujian Province, from Wednesday.

Taiwanese defense authorities see it as a regular drill, but are stepping up their alert.

Key words : female journalist
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180417_08/

People have gathered in Malta to remember a female journalist who was killed 6 months ago while reporting on alleged corruption among Maltese politicians.

A mass was held at a church in the Maltese capital Valletta on Monday.

Daphne Caruana Galizia reported an allegation that the wife of Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat hid money in a secret bank account. This was in relation to leaked tax haven data known as the Panama Papers.

Caruana Galizia, who was active in Malta for 30 years, was killed by a booby-trapped bomb in her car last October. Three men have been indicted for murder, but they were apparently hired by someone else as they had no previous connections to the victim.

About a thousand people participated in a gathering organized by a civic group after the mass. Pauline Ades-Mevel from international organization Reporters Without Borders was invited to the event. She called out to the participants to commend the journalist's courage.

Ades-Mevel said a journalist should not be threatened for investigating and covering a story. The crowd responded with applause.

A female participant said the problem does not concern Malta alone, as journalists have been killed in other countries as well. She said she hopes the truth will be revealed on the murder of Caruana Galizia.

Key words : new york yorker
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180417_15/

The New York Times and The New Yorker have won this year's Pulitzer Prize for public service for their reports on sexual harassment and assault allegations against a Hollywood mogul. The reports helped lead to the global "MeToo" movement against such misconduct.

The Pulitzer Prizes recognize the best American works in 21 journalism and arts categories. The 2018 prize winners were announced at Columbia University in New York on Monday.

The New York Times and The New Yorker reported last year that Harvey Weinstein had allegedly subjected many women to sexual harassment and assault.

Their reports encouraged victims of similar conduct around the world to come forward on social media under the hashtag "MeToo."

Pulitzer Prize administrator Dana Canedy praised the 2 publications for producing "explosive, impactful journalism that exposed wealthy and powerful sexual predators."

The New York Times also won for national reporting, along with The Washington Post, for reports on alleged collusion between Russia and US President Donald Trump's election campaign.

Key words : major shipping
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180417_28/

Major Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen has unveiled a 5-year plan to reduce its environmental impact by operating more vessels powered by liquefied natural gas.

LNG-powered ships emit less carbon dioxide than their coal- or oil-powered counterparts.

Company executives also announced plans to speed up the introduction of refueling vessels that supply LNG to ships at sea.

They say about 93 million dollars of the cost of the initiative will be covered by so-called green bonds.

These will be used to finance environmental measures and are the first of their kind for the company.

Executives hope environmentally conscious investors around the world will buy the bonds.

Last week, the International Maritime Organization adopted a strategy to cut greenhouse-gas emissions from vessels in half by 2050.

Key words : NHK survey
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180417_11/

An NHK survey suggests that poor living conditions may have caused the deaths of nearly 100 people who survived devastating earthquakes in southwestern Japan 2 years ago.

A series of powerful earthquakes struck Kumamoto Prefecture and nearby areas from April 14th, 2016.

Local government officials designated the deaths of 211 people as disaster-related. That's more than 4 times the 50 fatalities caused by the direct effects of the tremors, such as being trapped under collapsed buildings.

At least 95 people who died disaster-related deaths had slept in their cars or at evacuation centers.

Some of them developed blood clots. Others became ill after not being able to get enough sleep or losing their appetites.

A man in his 90s in the hard-hit town of Mashiki stayed at an evacuation center after the quakes, but developed a fever 4 days later and was admitted to hospital.

He repeatedly developed pneumonia and died in August 2016. His death was designated as disaster-related.

The man's son says his father was in good health before the earthquake.

He says the evacuation center was overcrowded and everyone had to sleep in close proximity on the floor, making it difficult to even roll over. He says his father couldn't sleep well.

He also says there were not enough toilets, they were dirty, and people were always lining up to use them. He says his father didn't want to use the facilities so he tried to avoid eating or drinking.

Medical doctor Kazuhiko Hanzawa at Niigata University says tolerating shortcomings at evacuations centers has long been regarded as a virtue in Japan.

But, from now on, he says, the facilities must be created with more emphasis on how to prevent people from becoming sick.

at 20:00 (JST), April 16 AS

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has told Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi that two countries closely cooperate to denuclearize North Korea.

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A US presidential spokesperson says President Donald Trump still wants US troops to pull out of Syria as soon as possible.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20180416200000_english_1.mp3


Key words : Abe minister wang principle
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180416_24/

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has told Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi that Japan and China should work together to bring about the denuclearization of North Korea.

Wang has been in Tokyo since Sunday. He met Abe at the Prime Minister's Office on Monday.

Abe referred to his upcoming summit talks with President Donald Trump. The Prime Minister is scheduled to leave for the United States on Tuesday. He said he will discuss with Trump ways to get North Korea to completely, verifiably, and irreversibly abandon its nuclear and ballistic missile development programs.

Abe added that he wants Japan and China to cooperate because they have a common interest in resolving this issue.

Abe also said he is looking forward to welcoming Chinese Premier Li Keqiang when he hosts a trilateral summit with China and South Korea in May.

He stressed that he wants to seize the opportunity to develop ties between Japan and China, in various fields, in ways that are mutually beneficial.

Wang replied that he is carefully observing the positive signals that Abe and the Japanese government have been sending out, regarding their desire to improve ties with China.

Wang also said he wants Li's visit to put relations between the 2 countries back on track.

The Foreign Minister also indirectly criticized Trump's ongoing trade war. He said that protectionism has affected global trade rules and free trade. He added that unilateralist actions are challenging the basic principles of international relations.

Key words : Japan and china agreed consideration
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Key words : spokesperson Trump still wants
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180416_16/

A US presidential spokesperson says President Donald Trump still wants US troops to pull out of Syria as soon as possible.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders made the remark in a statement on Sunday, one day after the airstrikes on Syria by the United States, Britain and France.

She said the US mission in Syria has not changed and the president has been clear that he wants US forces to come home as quickly as possible.

She said the US is determined to completely crush the Islamic State militant group and create the conditions that will prevent its return.

She added that the US expects its regional allies and partners to take greater responsibility, both militarily and financially, for securing the region.

On April 3rd, Trump expressed his wish to bring US troops back home from Syria soon, citing their successful operation against the Islamic State group.

The US has about 2,000 troops in Syria.

France and other countries are calling for the US to continue its military mission.

Key words : US ambassador impose
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180416_06/

The US ambassador to the United Nations says her country will impose more sanctions on Russia early this week for allegedly enabling the Syrian government to use chemical weapons.

Speaking to US media on Sunday, Nikki Haley said Syrian President Bashar al-Assad "got reckless" and used chemical weapons as he "knew that Russia had its back."

The new sanctions are expected to target individuals and entities that are suspected of involvement in Syria's chemical weapons program. The punishments will likely invite a backlash from Russia.

Last month, the US government expelled 60 Russian diplomats in response to the alleged attempted assassination of a former Russian spy and his daughter in Britain.

The US government also slapped sanctions on 38 Russian individuals and entities on April 6th. The targets included senior government officials and companies close to President Vladimir Putin.

Key words : Trump harshly
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180416_14/

US President Donald Trump has harshly criticized former FBI director James Comey over his forthcoming memoir, which reportedly contains criticism of the president.

Comey was dismissed by the president in May last year while he was leading an FBI probe into the suspected links between Trump's election campaign team and Russia.

In his new book, Comey reportedly compares the president to a mafia boss and accuses him of constantly lying.

Comey also told ABC News that the reopening of the investigation into Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's emails was disclosed just before the 2016 election because he expected her to win.

Comey said he thought that if he had hidden the information from the American people, she would be illegitimate if she was elected.

Trump criticized Comey on Twitter on Sunday, calling him a "slimeball." He said Comey's decision was based on the fact that he thought Clinton was going to win.

Trump also said Comey will go down as the worst FBI director in history.

Comey testified at a congressional hearing last year that he understood Trump had asked the FBI to drop its investigation of the president's former national security advisor, Michael Flynn.

Key words : Insight efforts to help overseas residents in Japan
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Key words : finance denying
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180416_17/

Japan's Finance Ministry says a top bureaucrat is denying a weekly magazine's report alleging that he had sexually harassed female reporters.

The weekly Shukan Shincho reported last week that Administrative Vice Minister Junichi Fukuda repeatedly made remarks to several female reporters that could be taken as sexual harassment.

The ministry on Monday announced the results of its questioning of Fukuda and how the ministry plans to deal with the matter.

Fukuda said in the hearing that he made no such remarks, and that the report is not true. He also said he is preparing to sue the magazine's publisher for defamation.

The vice minister indicated that he had no intention of resigning, saying he will steadily continue his duties.

The Finance Ministry said it will commission a lawyer to continue its investigation into the matter so as to secure objectivity.

The ministry also called for cooperation from the female reporters who engaged in the conversations mentioned in the magazine article.

Key words : Hitachi
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180416_23/

Researchers at Japanese electronics maker Hitachi are studying a new method to help people detect cancer at an early stage. The idea is to screen urine samples mailed from home.

The researchers have been working on the method for 3 years. They've checked about 2,000 biological waste materials in urine and found several biomarkers tied to cancer.

Hitachi says it plans to launch an experiment this month to improve the accuracy of the screening method. It's teaming up with Nagoya University Hospital to find out whether test results could be affected by temperature changes and time required for delivery of samples.

Hitachi says a urine test is less intrusive than the standard blood test currently used in cancer screening.

The company plans to start practical use of the test method in the early 2020s.

Hitachi's senior official Shinji Yamada says he believes a mail-in urine test will make it easier for many people to undergo screening, including infants.

at 20:00 (JST), April 15 AS

US officials believe Syrian government forces used chlorine gas and the more deadly sarin nerve agent in last weekend's attack on civilians in eastern Ghouta.

North Korea is marking its biggest national holiday by playing up its intention to strengthen ties with China.

Myanmar says a Rohingya family has returned from neighboring Bangladesh, becoming the first refugee family to do so.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20180415200000_english_1.mp3


Key words : US official believe
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180415_14/

US officials believe Syrian government forces used chlorine gas and the more deadly sarin nerve agent in last weekend's attack on civilians in eastern Ghouta.

A senior administration official told media over the phone that the US has significant and convincing information that Syria used chemical weapons. The official said an overall analysis, including an assessment of the victims' symptoms, led them to believe chlorine and sarin were used. The official justified Saturday's US-led air strikes as a response to the chemical weapons attack.

At a news conference, Department of Defense spokesperson Dana White said the US has various intelligence information on the use of chlorine and sarin. But she did not elaborate.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump spoke with the leaders of France and Britain separately over the phone. White House officials say the leaders agreed that the military operation in Syria was a success and the 3 countries will stop President Bashar al-Assad's government from using chemical weapons again.

Key words : saudi NHK
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180415_13/

Saudi Arabia has allowed NHK and other media to view a large-scale joint military exercise it is holding in the Persian Gulf.

The exercise called "Gulf Shield" is based in the eastern part of the country.

Saturday's drill involved fighter jets and landing ships. Soldiers practiced landings and descending from helicopters.

The United States and Britain, which provide fighter jets and missile systems to Saudi Arabia, participated, as did more than 20 other countries in the Middle-East, Asia and Africa.

A Saudi military spokesperson told reporters the drill is not politically motivated. He said it aims to deepen cooperation among participating countries, so that they can fight terror organizations and other threats in the Middle East.

Analysts say by staging a drill in the Persian Gulf, Saudi Arabia is trying to send a message to its regional rival Iran, which is increasing its influence in the civil wars in Syria and Yemen.

Key words : north marking playing up
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180415_15/

North Korea is marking its biggest national holiday by playing up its intention to strengthen ties with China. The North's state-run media gave extensive coverage on Sunday to leader Kim Jong Un's meeting with a senior Chinese official, as the country celebrated the anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung.

State-run television aired footage of Kim's meeting with Song Tao, the chief of China's Communist Party's International Department, in Pyongyang on Saturday.

Song is leading a Chinese art troupe that has been in North Korea since Friday. The visit comes after the 2 countries agreed to work on cultural sharing programs at a summit in Beijing last month. Kim is reported to have welcomed the delegation, saying he will mobilize relevant departments to provide the greatest hospitality.

Kim added that he will advance and develop the traditional friendship into a new phase by promoting mutual cooperation and visits, including high-level delegations.

Song reportedly responded by saying it is China's unshakable policy to consolidate and develop their relations. He said that that will contribute to the peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula.

The warm welcome is in stark contrast to when Song was not permitted to meet Kim during a visit as the Chinese president's special envoy last November.

Observers say the media coverage on the birthday of the country's late founder and Kim Jong Un's grandfather underscores the North's intentions to strengthen ties with China ahead of planned summits with South Korea and the United States.

Key words : Japanese and chinese
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180415_19/

Japanese and Chinese ministers in charge of economic affairs have agreed to work together to develop infrastructure in third countries, based on an agreement reached by their leaders last year in a summit.

Japanese Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Hiroshige Seko met on Sunday with Chinese Commerce Minister Zhong Shan, who is visiting Japan.

On Monday, they are scheduled to attend the first high-level economic talks between the 2 countries in almost 8 years.

Seko told Zhong that the development of economic ties is one of the most important foundations of the relationship between the 2 countries.

He also said it is important to back up economic exchanges between their business communities through collaborations in a wide range of areas.

Zhong responded that China's gate of reform is not closing but keeps opening more, and that he wants to exchange opinions on how the 2 countries may cooperate further in the new era.

The ministers agreed to develop businesses in third countries, as agreed between their leaders last November, and cooperate in developing infrastructure in those countries.

They also agreed to discuss developing a framework for the 2 countries to cooperate in the service sector, including nursing and welfare -- an area in which Japan has strengths, and China is seeing demand rapidly grow.

Key words : myanmar says
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180415_17/

Myanmar says a Rohingya family has returned from neighboring Bangladesh, becoming the first refugee family to do so.

The 5 family members are among the many Rohingya Muslims who fled military-led violence that broke out in the western state of Rakhine last August.

The United Nations estimates the number of Rohingya refugees at over 680,000.

Bangladesh and Myanmar have been coordinating the repatriation process.

The Myanmar government says the family returned to the country through a reception center set up near the border.
In an apparent show of its humanitarian stance, the government said the family was provided with food and clothing before they moved in with their relatives in Rakhine State.

However, no comments from the family have been reported, and no concrete plan has been announced for the repatriations of the remaining refugees.

Many Rohingya people say they have been persecuted by security forces in Buddhist-majority Myanmar.

Securing the safety of returning refugees by such means as having an international organization act as a monitor, and increasing transparency of the procedures remain key issues.

at 20:00 (JST), April 14 AS

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A senior US official says President Donald Trump is expected to discuss with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe how to respond to North Korea when they meet next week. The official says Trump also places importance on the North's abduction issue.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20180414200000_english_1.mp3


Key words : united states joined action
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Key words : British prime possible
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180414_15/

Britain and France have confirmed they joined the United States in military strikes targeting Syria's chemical weapons capabilities.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said in a statement that her country sought every possible diplomatic channel to prevent the use of chemical weapons, but the efforts were repeatedly thwarted.

A statement by French President Emmanuel Macron said many people were killed or injured in the suspected chemical attack. He said there is no doubt the Syrian government is responsible, and it had "crossed a red line."

Key words : syrian agency shut down
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Key words : russian condemn joint
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180414_18/

Russian officials have strongly condemned the joint military action in Syria by the United States, Britain and France.

Foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova posted remarks on Facebook. She wrote, "First the Syrian people was subjected to Arab Spring, then Islamic State, now to 'smart' American missiles."

She blamed those she accused of claiming moral leadership in the world, who declare their exceptionalism.

She criticized the decision to attack Syria at a time when it was given what she called a chance for a peaceful future.

Russian ambassador to the United States, Anatoly Antonov, said in a statement that people's worst apprehensions have come true as Russia's warnings have gone unheard.

He said a pre-designed scenario is being implemented, and that such actions will not be without consequences.

The ambassador said all responsibility for what comes next lies with Washington, London and Paris.

Key words : Abe commented
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180414_17/

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has commented on the strikes launched by the US, Britain and France on Syria in response to an alleged chemical attack by the Syrian administration on civilians.

Abe said the use of chemical weapons is inhumane and unacceptable.

He said the Japanese government supports the commitment of the US, Britain and France to never tolerating the spread and use of chemical weapons.

Abe said he understands the attack was aimed at preventing a further escalation of the situation.
He says he will convene a meeting of the National Security Council to discuss Japan's response.

Key words : senior trump
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180414_07/

A senior US official says President Donald Trump is expected to discuss with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe how to respond to North Korea when they meet next week. The official says Trump also places importance on the North's abduction issue.

The 2 leaders are scheduled to meet at Trump's retreat in Florida on Tuesday and Wednesday ahead of the proposed US-North Korea summit.

The US official told reporters on Friday that the meeting will be a chance for Trump and Abe to closely cooperate on the issue of North Korea and exchange views ahead of the summit.

The official said Trump was moved by his meeting in Japan last November with the families of Japanese who had been abducted by North Korea.
The official said when Trump thinks about North Korea, he keeps in mind those abductees, as well as Americans being detained in the North.

According to the official, Trump and Abe could also discuss trade issues, such as the US imposition of heavy tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from around the world, including those from Japan.

The official noted that Trump is considering rejoining the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade agreement if it benefits the US, and that he is also willing to enter into talks with Japan on concluding a bilateral free trade pact.

Key words : treasury
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180414_09/

The US Department of Treasury has placed 6 trading partners on a list of economies with currency practices that it says require close attention. India is a new addition to the list.

The department on Friday released its bi-annual report on the foreign exchange policies of major US trading partners.

The report does not designate any nation as a currency manipulator, but it keeps five -- China, Japan, South Korea, Germany and Switzerland -- on a list of countries that it is monitoring. The department says these countries and India are on the list due to significant trade surpluses with the United States.

The report notes that earlier this year, Japanese officials voiced concern over the appreciation of the yen, but it adds Japan has not intervened in the foreign exchange market in over 6 years.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement that the treasury will continue to monitor and combat unfair currency practices while encouraging polices and reforms to address large trade imbalances.

Key words : Kumamoto
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20180414_19/

People in southwestern Japan are marking the 2nd anniversary of a series of devastating earthquakes that struck the region 2 years ago.

A crowd of people on Saturday offered prayers at a square in Kumamoto Castle which was severely damaged in the disaster.

The quakes in and around Kumamoto Prefecture began on April 14th, 2016. They eventually claimed the lives of 267 people.

The castle's main tower is still undergoing reconstruction. But parts of its stone walls remain in a damaged state.

One visitor said it is heart breaking to see the destroyed structure.

Another man said it feels as if the past 2 years have passed by in a flash.

In the morning, a memorial service was held at the prefectural government office for the victims of the quakes which recorded a maximum intensity of 7 on the Japanese scale zero to 7. More than 300 people, including the victims' families, attended the service.

About 38,100 people are still living in temporary housing after their houses were completely or partially destroyed.
19 quake survivors are believed to have died alone in such housing.

Residents say continued efforts are needed to rebuild their lives.