at 14:00 (JST), March 13

20260313140000_english_2.mp3

 00:00:09 話者 1/James Tengan

It's a Friday evening here in Japan. I'm James Tengan in Tokyo. 

Welcome to NHK Newsline.

IRAN CONFLICT
NEW SUPREME LEADER SAYS IRAN WON'T BACK DOWN

The new supreme leader of Iran is vowing revenge against the US and Israel.

Mojtaba Khamenei says the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed to shipping.

He says that will serve as a tool to pressure the enemy.

Khamenei's statement was read by a presenter on state-run television.

It was his first since being named Supreme Leader.

In the statement, he called for national unity.

00:00:42 話者 2

We will not hesitate to retaliate for the victims. We only targeted the US base.

We have no choice but to continue this action.

00:00:58 話者 1

He said the US must shut down its military bases in the region or face further attacks.

Khamenei also mentioned an attack that hit an elementary school in southern Iran on February 28. The attack killed more than 160 people, mostly children.

He said Iran will definitely retaliate.

US President Donald Trump has yet to respond to Khamenei's statement, but has repeatedly claimed that the US military campaign has been a big success.

00:01:28 話者 10/Donald Trump

The situation with Iran is moving along very rapidly.

It's doing very well and we're doing what has to be done.

00:01:38 話者 1

Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu suggested that Israel may target Khamenei.

00:01:45 話者 4/Benyamin Netanyahu

I wouldn't issue life insurance policies to any of the leaders of the terrorist organizations.

00:01:53 話者 1

Amid escalating conflict, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps released this video on Thursday. It says it shows a strike on a US-owned tanker in the Persian Gulf.

It says the crew had ignored its warnings.

The Iranian Supreme National Security Council secretary issued a strong warning on social media, saying, We will not relinquish until they regret this serious miscalculation.

IRAN CONFLICT
ISRAELI FORCES AND LEBANON-BASED HEZBOLLAH TRADE ATTACKS

Meanwhile, the Israeli military has been trading fire with Hezbollah.

The Shia Muslim group is backed by Iran and is based in Lebanon, which shares a border with Israel.

Hezbollah previously claimed that it had conducted attacks in northern Israel in retaliation for the killing of Iran's then supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

It also claims to have carried out attacks on Thursday.

The Israeli forces have also launched several airstrikes on facilities connected to Hezbollah across Lebanon.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz hinted at a massive ground operation on Thursday.

00:02:59 話者 5/Israel Katz

I warned the Lebanese president that if the Lebanese government does not know how to control the territory and prevent Hezbollah from threatening the northern communities and firing at Israel, we will take the territory and do it ourselves.

00:03:16 話者 1

Lebanese authorities said that as of Thursday, 687 people have been killed and 1,774 others wounded by Israeli attacks.

They added that more than 810,000 people have been forced to evacuate across Lebanon.

IRAN CONFLICT
MORE EVACUEES FROM MIDDLE EAST ARRIVE IN TOKYO

A fifth plane carrying evacuees from the Middle East has arrived here in Tokyo.

It's the latest in a series of flights chartered by the Japanese government to help those stranded in the region.

The plane carrying 46 people landed at Tokyo's Haneda Airport at around 9 a.m. on Friday.

It departed from Oman. This brings the total number of evacuees airlifted by Japan to 882.

00:04:02 話者 22

We were getting several alerts a day, telling us to shelter inside. So I was waiting at home the whole time. I was torn about leaving because I don't know when I'll be able to go back.

00:04:16 話者 1

The Japanese government has so far chartered 2 flights from Oman, 2 from Saudi Arabia and one from the United Arab Emirates. 

It's currently making arrangements for a 6th flight.

IRAN CONFLICT
US ALLOWS TRANSACTIONS ON SOME RUSSIAN OIL PRODUCTS

The US Treasury Department says it's temporarily allowing countries to purchase some Russian crude oil and petroleum products.

This appears to be aimed at bringing down energy prices amid the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Treasury says the measure covers shipments already loaded onto vessels and will last until April 11.

The announcement comes after CNN quoted sources earlier this week who said the Trump administration was discussing easing sanctions on Russian oil.

On Thursday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that it's very important for Russia and the US to work together to stabilize energy markets.

Russian presidential representative Kirill Dimitriev also revealed on social media that he visited the US for high-level talks on bilateral economic cooperation.

Observers say Moscow could be trying to work with the US to get leverage in peace talks with Ukraine.

BUSINESS

Now for the latest on the business and financial fronts with Gene Otani.

00:05:35 話者 7/Gene Otani

James, thanks. Our top business story this hour, 

IRAN CONFLICT
IEA: GULF NATIONS CUT DAILY OIL OUTPUT BY 10 MILLION BARRELS

the International Energy Agency says the Middle East conflict has forced Gulf countries to reduce daily crude oil production by at least 10 million barrels.

That's equivalent to about 10% of global demand.

The IEA says the war is creating the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market.

It warned on Thursday that unless oil tanker traffic can resume in the region, global shipments are set to fall further.

The report says that oil and product flows through the Strait of Hormuz have plunged to a trickle from around 20 million barrels a day before the war.

It says the lack of tankers forced Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf states to put oil in storage.

They have now cut production because storage facilities are filling up.

The IEA says that non-OPEC plus producers, such as Kazakhstan and Russia, have increased output that's partially offsetting the fall in the Middle East.

But the agency still projects global supply to fall by 8 million barrels a day in March.

The IEA says it welcomes the release of oil from member nations' stockpiles, but adds it's a stopgap measure.

The agency calls for adequate insurance and protection for shipping in the region.

IRAN CONFLICT
GASOLINE PRICES SOAR AT PUMPS AROUND TOKYO

Soaring gasoline prices are hitting some Japanese drivers hard.

The Iran conflict has caused a sharp increase in the cost of using a car.

NHK World's correspondent, Igarashi Jun, has the latest.

00:07:25 話者 8/Igarashi Jun

Here at the pumps in a busy part of Tokyo, drivers are feeling the pinch.

Gas is now selling for over 200 yen per liter.

This price reflects an increase of 28% in one day.

00:07:56 話者 17

I'm worried, and I'm not the only one.

00:08:00 話者 18

A car is necessary for me. I don't really have a choice, especially for hospital visits.

00:08:08 話者 8

The government announced on Wednesday that they will release 15 days' worth of oil from private reserves to domestic oil refiners as early as Monday.

They will attempt to keep retail gasoline prices at around 170 yen per liter.

That's about one dollar. One gas station manager commented on the surge.

00:08:34 話者 6/Saigusa Naoki/Gas station manager

I've never experienced prices this high before.

Even if we manage to get supplies, I'm worried the prices will keep rising.

And honestly, I'm not even sure we'll be able to source gas.

00:08:46 話者 8

Japan relies on the Middle East for more than 90 percent of its crude imports.

Unless tensions cool, the outlook for motorists and consumers in general is looking increasingly uncertain.

Igarashi Jun, NHK World.

BIZ PICKS

00:09:06 話者 7

Next, NHK World's John LaDue is here with Biz Picks.

00:09:16 話者 9/John LaDue

Let's take a look at the top business and economic stories in the week ahead.

On Wednesday, major Japanese companies will respond to labor unions in their annual wage negotiations.

Also Wednesday, the US Federal Reserve announces its latest policies.

With uncertainty about another rate cut, markets will be watching closely.

Then on Thursday, the Bank of Japan follows with its own announcement.

This time, the focus is on a possible rate hike.

ANALYSIS: BOJ'S NEXT MOVE

The BOJ lifted its key rate to around 0.75% in December.

It's also the first meeting since Japan's ruling party election win strengthened its reform mandate.

Mizuho Securities Chief Economist Kobayashi Shunsuke says a hike is unlikely this time, with wage demand softer and inflation easing.

00:10:12 話者 6/Kobayashi Shunsuke

The question is whether inflation will steadily move toward the BOJ's 2% target.

We're not there yet. Labor unions' demands are slightly lower than last year.

In January, there was only a small number of goods that saw prices increase.

With the gas tax cut and government subsidies, the consumer price index may even dip below 2%.

00:10:40 話者 9

He also says tensions in the Middle East could complicate the BOJ's decision.

00:10:53 話者 6

When energy prices rise, inflation, that the BOJ has set a target for, rises too.

And Japan relies heavily on energy imports.

High prices worsen trading conditions for Japanese companies and can hurt the broader economy. Over the medium to long term, the Iran conflict could be a drag.

00:11:18 話者 9

Kobayashi expects slower price growth and a weaker economy ahead, leaving the BOJ debating whether to move now or keep policy easy.

00:11:30 話者 6

I expect the next rate hike in July or later. 

There are still many uncertainties, including the situation in Iran.

The BOJ is waiting for clearer signs that inflation is firming and wage growth is gaining momentum. When that happens, another hike becomes more likely.

00:11:56 話者 9

Prices and economic conditions always shape BOJ policy, but this time, global tensions add an extra layer of complexity.

I'm John LaDue, and that wraps it up for this week's BizPicks.

00:12:09 話者 7

John, thanks.

MARKETS

All right, let's have a look at the markets.

♪

And that's it for Business News.

JAPAN TO WELCOME PRESIDENTS OF INDONESIA, FRANCE

00:12:49 話者 1

Japan is getting ready to host two world leaders.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and French President Emmanuel Macron will make overlapping official visits at the end of this month.

Japan's government approved the plan at a cabinet meeting on Friday.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara Minoru says he hopes the visits deepen Japan's relationship with both nations.

00:13:14 話者 23/Kihara Minoru

As comprehensive strategic partners, Japan and Indonesia have strengthened ties in a range of fields, including security, the economy, and people-to-people exchanges.

Japan and France are special partners that share basic values and principles.

00:13:36 話者 1

Prabowo will be in Japan from March 29 to the 31.

Macron will arrive on the 31 and stay until April 2.

Both presidents are scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae.

They will also attend a banquet hosted by Emperor Narushito.

CAR CRASHES INTO MICHIGAN SYNAGOGUE, SUSPECT DEAD

A car possibly carrying explosives has crashed into a synagogue in a Detroit suburb in the US state of Michigan injuring a security guard.

Reports say security personnel near the entrance opened fire on the vehicle.

The injured guard was taken to a hospital.

Media reports say authorities found the suspect dead in the car.

The synagogue said no one else was injured, including staff members and children at its kindergarten. President Trump commented on the incident.

00:14:27 話者 10/Trump 

And I want to send our love to the Michigan Jewish community and all of the people in Detroit, Detroit area, following the attack on the Jewish synagogue early today.

And I've been briefed, fully briefed, and it's a terrible thing.

1 DEAD, 2 INJURED IN SHOOTING AT VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY

00:14:45 話者 1

Also on Thursday, one person died and two were injured in a shooting at Old Dominion University in the southern state of Virginia. The suspected gunman, who died at the scene,

had been convicted of attempting to support the Islamic State militant group.

The FBI is investigating the shooting as an act of terrorism.

The two incidents are drawing wide attention in US media amid the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran.

JAPANESE WASHI PAPER AIDS RESTORATION OF MICHELANGELO FRESCO

Traditional Japanese washi paper is playing a key role in restoration work on Michelangelo's painting The Last Judgment.

The gigantic fresco adorns the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, which is also known as the Site of the Conclave, the secret meeting held to elect a new Roman Catholic pope.

The restoration project began last month.

It's the first such work on the painting in about 30 years.

Scaffolding has been set up inside the chapel and has been covered by screens bearing large printed images of the artwork.

Behind the screens, workers soak pieces of washi paper in water and apply them to the surface of the fresco to remove surface deposits.

Washi paper is soft and highly absorbent, allowing it to draw out the deposits without damaging the painting.

The chapel remains open to visitors during the work.

The project is scheduled to be completed in April.

YOUNG CHINESE CAPTURE LIFE'S HIGHS AND LOWS

In China, young people are increasingly hiring photographers to document their lives, some to preserve happy moments, others to capture difficult times.

The trend offers a glimpse into the lives of young people navigating a challenging society.

00:16:37 話者 20/Narrator: Kitadai Hiroko

Dressed in traditional outfits,

These women have traveled to a tourist destination solely to have their photos taken.

I quit my job and came here to relax.

Trips taken for photo shoots are called lu pai, or travel photography.

The market, including accommodations and costume rentals, has grown in recent years.

It reached about $5.7 billion in 2024.

Chen Yun traveled to Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province, a three-hour drive from her home in neighboring Jiangsu Province.

Chen works at a government agency. She takes travel photography trips about twice a year to break what she calls a stifling and monotonous routine.

The session costs about $190, but she says capturing a more glamorous version of herself motivates her to keep working hard.

00:17:53 話者 21/Chen Yun

I take photos to encourage myself. I don't worry about what other people think.

00:18:00 話者 20

But other young people aim to immortalize painful moments.

This woman had photos taken when she became withdrawn following a breakup.

00:18:18 話者 22/Sun Yichun

I want to escape the repetitive routine of my life.

00:18:28 話者 20

Photographer Li Ziyi has been taking portraits of young people like Chen for the past five years. Last November, he showed some in an exhibition.

One featured an engineer aiming to document the reality of late-night work in China's booming IT industry.

Another showed a man who lost his job amid high youth unemployment, leaving him with an uncertain future.

00:19:02 話者 14/Le Ziyi/Photographer

I hope the photos can offer them a turning point, or help them discover something positive.

00:19:18 話者 20

Five years ago, Jiang Haoran asked Lu to photograph him.

Jiang had moved to the city, hoping to become a model.

But his work and personal life didn't go as planned. This photo was taken at that time.

00:19:37 話者 24/Jiang Haoran

It captures the raw emotions I felt back then, a deep sense of powerlessness.

00:19:46 話者 20

Now, Zhang is learning video editing. He hopes to find a job creating and sharing videos.

Life remains unstable, but he says looking at those photos helps him see how far he has come.

00:20:05 話者 24

Of course, it's good to capture happy moments, but I think difficult times should also be recorded. 

Remembering those struggles allows me to appreciate the happiness I have today.

00:20:22 話者 20

For young people in China, having their photos taken is both a way to preserve memories and a chance to find the strength to move forward.

DISASTER SURVIVOR HELPS STUDENTS THRIVE IN HER HOMETOWN

00:20:40 話者 1

Fifteen years have passed since 2011's Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami.

More than 19,000 people lost their lives in the aftermath.

Over 1,200 of them were in the small coastal town of Otsuchi in Iwate Prefecture.

The children who experienced that tragedy are now adults.

Today, some of them are hoping to give back to the communities that stood by them during that devastating time.

NHK World's Murata Riho has the story.

00:21:12 話者 11/Murata Riho

28-year-old Oguni Yuka helps run a community center where local teenagers gather.

A non-profit established a space, known as a collabo school, months after the disaster.

Yuka spent many days here when she was a student.

00:21:35 話者 11

She was just 13 years old when the disaster struck.

She witnessed her grandparents' house being swallowed by the tsunami waves while they were still inside.

(Japanese)

00:22:03 話者 11

As the years went by, Yuke and her family continued to live in temporary housing.

She noticed many local seniors were becoming isolated.

She feared what would happen to her community if they didn't come together.

She felt the need to do something.

Kanamori Shunichi was one of the adults working at the collabo school at the time.

(Japanese)

00:22:49 話者 11

With his help, Yuka, then 17, organized a tea gathering for seniors. While the goal was to help them, they in turn helped her learn more about her grandparents.

(Japanese)

00:23:21 話者 11

Most of Otsushi has now been rebuilt, but to fully revitalize it, It'll take more work.

One way the town is trying to bring back the energy is to recruit high school students from outside the prefecture.

That has become a full-circle moment for Yuka, as she now helps those students integrate.

00:23:44 話者 11

Just like Kanamori encouraged her, she's eager to build trusting relationships with her students.

00:24:17 話者 11

Yuka says she works hard every day to become a dependable role model for the youth who now call Otsushi home.

Murata Riho, NHK World, Otsushi.

WEATHER

00:24:42 話者 1

Now, it's time for a check on whether despite being March, snowy conditions continue in northern Japan. Our meteorologist, Yumi Hirano, has the details.

00:24:52 話者 12/Yumi Hirano

A combination of cold air and a low-pressure system has been bringing heavy snow to parts of Hokkaido. Over 80 centimeters was reported in Utodo in just two days.

Wet and heavy snow could lead to the risk of avalanches.

The storm is expected to move away from Japan, so the snow is likely to ease on Saturday.

Another system is expected to develop and approach the Izu Islands.

Thundershowers, gusty winds, and high waves are possible.

But sunny skies are likely in Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka over the weekend.

The high in Tokyo will rise to 15 on Saturday and Sunday, so spring conditions may return.

Moving to Australia, over 110 millimeters of heavy rain in just one day was reported in one location in the northern territory.

The monsoons have also been affecting Queensland. Intense rain hit a coastal town in southern Queensland, causing rivers to overflow on Wednesday.

Flood waters inundated communities, forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate their homes.

According to local media, two bodies were discovered during search and rescue appellations.

River levels remain dangerously high in parts of Queensland and the northern territory.

A low-pressure system is expected to intensify downpours.

An additional 150 millimeters of rain is likely in the northern territory by Monday.

Major flooding is also possible in Queensland.

Showers will continue in Darwin, but sunny skies are expected in the south, including Brisbane and Melbourne, with highs around 25.

That's it for now. Have a nice weekend.

00:27:41 話者 1

Visit our app or website for more news, feature stories, and information.

More to come here on NHK World Japan, so stay with us.

checked.

at 18:00 (JST), March 12

20260312180000_english_1.mp3

 00:00:10 話者 1

Welcome back to NHK Newsline. I'm Kanako Sachno.

IRAN CONFLICT
MIXED MESSAGES ON HOW LONG MILITARY CAMPAIGN WILL LAST

US President Donald Trump claims his military campaign against Iran has been a big success, but he also said he doesn't want to pull out of the operation too soon.

00:00:24 話者 2/Donald Trump

We don't want to leave early, do we? We got to finish the job, right.

00:00:30 話者 1

At a rally in Kentucky, Trump spoke about the campaign. 

He had earlier suggested his objectives in Iran have been largely accomplished in a phone call with the US media outlet Axios. He told Axios the campaign will end soon because there is practically nothing left to target.

The media outlet also quoted Trump as saying, any time I want it to end, it will end.

But the report also cites US and Israeli officials who say there has been no internal directive on when the fighting might stop.

Those officials say they're preparing for at least two more weeks of strikes.

Meanwhile, a British marine organization says two tankers were attacked off southern Iraq on Wednesday.

It's the latest in a series of incidents involving damage to ships in the Persian Gulf amid the conflict. Reuters news agency reports the attack killed one crew member.

It says an investigation by Iraqi authorities found that small boats laden with explosives had hit the tankers.

IRAN CONFLICT
G7 MULLING PROVIDING ESCORTS FOR SHIPS

France, the current chair of the Group of Seven Nations, says G7 leaders are considering providing escorts for ships in the Middle East.

France released a statement after the G7 leaders held an online summit meeting on Wednesday.

The statement says the leaders agreed to coordinate efforts to prepare for the restoration of freedom of navigation in the region.

It goes on to say work is underway to explore the possibility of escorting ships once security conditions are met.

The leaders said they encourage energy production in countries that can replace blocked capacity. They also reaffirmed their determination to maintain sanctions against Russia.

JAPANESE GOVT. AIMS FOR TAKAICHI-TRUMP SUMMIT ON MARCH 19

Japan's government has told the ruling parties that Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae is aiming for a summit with Trump next Thursday.

Officials say she'll leave Japan on March 18 for a four-day trip to the US.

They say Takaichi wants to meet with Trump to reaffirm their two countries' unity.

She hopes to promote more cooperation in a wide range of fields, including diplomacy, economy and security.

The government added Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Akazawa Ryosei will accompany Takaichi on her visit.

BUSINESS

Now for business stories, here's Gene Otani.

00:02:58 話者 3/Gene Otani

Kanako, thanks. At our top business story this hour, 

IRAN CONFLICT
IEA TO RELEASE RECORD OIL STOCKPILE

the International Energy Agency is planning the largest ever release of oil from its strategic reserves.

It's an attempt to stabilize global oil prices, which have surged in recent weeks following US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

The IEA is made-up of 32 members, including Japan, the US, and a number of European countries.

They say they'll release 400 million barrels of oil. The last time they tapped into their reserves was following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The IEA says oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz have plunged more than 90% since the attacks began.

00:03:48 話者 4/Fatih Birol/IEA Executive Director

The most important thing for a return to stable flows of oil and gas is the resumption of transit through the state of Hormuz.

00:04:00 話者 3

The agency says they're keeping a close watch on developments.

Many drivers in Japan are rushing to the pumps to fill their tanks ahead of regular gas price hikes. This comes amid a surge in crude oil futures driven by the Iran conflict.

Eneos says Japan's largest oil wholesaler. Sources say it has informed gas stations of a sharp rise of 26 yen per liter for a week starting from Thursday.

Retail prices are also expected to jump from the same day.

IRAN CONFLICT
JAPAN TO RELEASE RESERVES AS SOON AS MONDAY

Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae announced on Wednesday that the government will release 15 days' worth of oil from private reserves to domestic oil refiners as soon as possible.

One month's worth of national reserves will then follow.

The total amount is set to reach a record high of around 80 million barrels.

The release will begin as early as Monday. The government said that it will attempt to keep retail gasoline prices at around 170 yen per liter. That's about $1.

The program will apply to shipments from March 19.

IRAN CONFLICT
US TO RELEASE 172 MIL. BARRELS OF STOCKPILED OIL

Meanwhile, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced on Wednesday that 172 million barrels of oil will be released from the Strategic Reserve to combat surging energy prices.

The statement says President Donald Trump authorized the Energy Department to start the move next week. Delivery will take about 120 days.

It also touched on the IEA's decision earlier to release oil reserves.

It notes that member nations unanimously agreed to the president's request to lower energy prices with coordinated action.

Trump welcomed the IEA's move. He said the decision would substantially reduce oil prices to end the threat to America and the world.

NEW US TRADE INVESTIGATION COULD LEAD TO MORE TARIFFS

The Trump administration says it has launched an investigation into its trading partners.

The outcome could lead to new tariffs from Washington.

The Office of the US Trade Representative said on Wednesday that it will examine the policies and practices of certain trading partners.

It says their excess capacity and production have led to huge US trade deficits.

Sixteen countries and regions are the focus of the investigation, including Japan, China, and the European Union.

Regarding Japan, the USTR says the country has a trade surplus in sectors such as automobiles, auto parts, and precision instruments.

It adds that Japan's trade surplus with the US is heavily focused on the automotive sector.

The administration says it's initiating the investigation under Section 301 of the Trade Act.

It grants the USTR authority to investigate potential unfair trade practices and take punitive measures.

The move comes after the US Supreme Court struck down Trump's sweeping global tariffs in February.

The US president has since imposed a new 10% tariff on imports from a wide range of countries under another section of the Trade Act.

But in principle, the levies are only allowed to stay in place for 150 days.

NISSAN, UBER, WAYVE TIE UP FOR ROBOTAXIS IN TOKYO

Nissan Motor is partnering with Uber Technologies and British start-up Wave Technologies to launch a robo-taxi service. It's planning to begin with a pilot in Tokyo later this year.

Nissan said on Thursday that it will provide the ride-hailing giant with vehicles based on its Leaf electric model. They will be powered by AI technology.

The car maker has been developing with Wave that enables autonomous driving.

Nissan's CEO praised the new partnership.

00:08:15 話者 2/Ivan Espinosa/President and CEO, Nissan Motor

The collaboration has huge potential. Scalability is very possible, as I said.

So I think this is an excellent opportunity for us three companies together to show what we can do.

00:08:29 話者 3

Meanwhile, Uber's CEO said Japan is well positioned for the next generation service.

00:08:36 話者 12/Dara Khosrowshahi/CEO, Uber Technologies

World-renowned companies like Nissan and a government focused on ensuring that new technologies are adopted responsibly

The country is incredibly well positioned to lead in autonomy as well.

00:08:50 話者 3

The companies plan to start a test deployment in Tokyo in late 2026 with drivers at the wheel. The firms ultimately hope to expand the service worldwide.

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE AGE OF AI

Artificial intelligence is quickly entering our daily lives.

This is raising questions about how children should learn to use the new technology, especially as AI can make mistakes.

A US nonprofit that focuses on AI education is tackling the problem.

We spoke with its CEO during his visit to Japan.

00:09:28 話者 5/Reporting Kajihara Sari

An event to explore innovative technology was held in January in Nagoya.

On the final day, Alex Kotran, CEO of the NPO, spoke about the necessity of AI education.

00:09:48 話者 22/Alex Kotran

In the US, it's one in five students have an AI companion. The average user on character AI spends more time than they do on TikTok, two hours a day on average.

This is going to transform the world. It is going to transform your jobs.

It is going to transform your kids' jobs.

00:10:05 話者 5

His organization was founded in 2019.

It provides free educational materials for students from elementary through high school.

In the US, it is estimated that last year, more than 1 million students used the curriculum.

The materials are available in English and Japanese and are designed to help students understand how AI works, its benefits, limitations, and risks.

The most important thing is to develop the ability to critically engage with AI.

For example, the curriculum is designed to prompt children to ask questions like: Was fact-checking done? What risks are involved?

00:10:54 話者 22

Almost the best compared to any of the benchmark, it's persuasion.

AI is very, very good at persuading people to think a certain way.

The instinct that everybody needs to have, but certainly kids, is, you know, why is it saying that? You know, should I actually think that?

00:11:12 話者 5

Generative AI, which automatically creates content, like text, images, audio, and video, targets users aged 13 and older. However, it's quickly spreading to younger age groups.

00:11:27 話者 22

We really do not understand the implications.

So we need to be very careful, right, about like, you know, generally when people ask, when people ask, well, what age should kids be using AI?

It's like, basically not until you're in late middle school, early high school.

So for us, it's like, 13, 14.

00:11:47 話者 5

Kotran says, adults must understand AI and take proactive measures to teach students how to use the technology correctly.

00:11:58 話者 22

Our work is really about how do you build this infrastructure so that students are being guided onto that path.

It's more about how do you build the capability within the education system, within households within society to ensure that there is sort of the guidance and the curiosity and sort of the learning that needs to be happening.

MARKETS

00:12:23 話者 3

All right, let's have a look at the markets.

♪

And that's a look at business news. Kanaka, I'm going to hand it back to you.

00:12:55 話者 1

Thanks, Gene.

ANALYSIS: KEY POINTS FROM CHINA'S NATIONAL PEOPLE'S CONGRESS

Many political observers are keeping an eye on China's National People's Congress, which concludes Thursday.

This annual meeting brings thousands of delegates together to reveal policy priorities for the year. It also offers insight into China's economic policies.

For more on this, I spoke earlier with NHK World's senior commentator, Okutani Ryuta.

He's our former chief Beijing correspondent and has been covering China for decades.

How should we interpret the government work report and the new five-year plan presented at this year's congress, and how effective will they be in boosting China's economy?

00:13:33 話者 4/Okutani Ryuta

Yes, the government work report and the five-year plan outline all the necessary measures to improve the Chinese economy.

Measures such as expanding domestic demand, stabilizing the real estate market, and promoting science and technology, all reasonable approaches.

The real question, however, is to what extent these measures will actually be implemented and which policies will be prioritized.

One of the main reasons domestic demand has remained weak is the prolonged slump in the real estate market.

But there are also deeper structural problems in Chinese society.

First, many experts argue that state-owned enterprises receive preferential treatment from the government, which weakens private companies.

Second, China's social security system remains underdeveloped.

As a result, many people feel uncertain about the future and are reluctant to spend.

Labor unions in China are controlled by the Communist Party, strikes are not permitted, and there are no competitive elections.

For these reasons, critics say the voices of vulnerable groups are not easily heard.

00:14:59 話者 1

Now the government work report lowered the GDP growth target compared with last year.

Is the target of 4.5 to 5% achievable?

00:15:07 話者 4

Well, in China's case, government growth targets almost never fail to be met.

They reflect the political system.

Policies of the CCP are supposed to be completely accurate.

For example, last year, China reported economic growth of exactly 5%, which was precisely the target set by the government.

At the same time, youth unemployment currently stands at around 17%, even according to official figures.

Because of this discrepancy, there has been a growing suspicion among economists that the government's GDP figures do not fully reflect the state of China's economy.

00:15:54 話者 1

Now Japan-China relations have soured over the last several months.

Was that discussed at all this week?

00:16:00 話者 4

Well, issues like this are not openly debated during the Congress, but it's likely the CCP leadership is discussing the situation behind closed doors.

During a news conference on Sunday, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi once again pointed to Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae's November comments on Taiwan.

Takaichi said in the Diet session that the Taiwan emergency involving the use of force could be considered a situation threatening the survival of Japan.

In response, the Chinese government announced measures such as restrictions on travel and cultural exchanges with Japan.

And the Japanese government repeatedly explained that Takaichi's comments do not represent a change from the country's long-standing position.

Officials have emphasized that it remains open to dialogue with China.

But China continued to step up economic pressure.

Last month, it named dozens of Japanese businesses and groups that will face export bans and stricter reviews on jaw use items.

Wang stated on Sunday that where Japan-China relationships are headed depends on the choices Japan makes, a clear warning to stay away from Taiwan.

But at the same time, his criticism of Japan was notable in that, unlike before, he did not explicitly demand a retraction of the Diet testimony.

Instead, it appears Beijing is watching how Japan will respond.

Just as China once moved to repair relations with former Prime Minister Abe's administration after realizing it would be long-lasting, experts believe Beijing could possibly seek to stabilize relations with Takaichi over time.

In that sense, it could be said that the future of Japan-China relations ultimately depends on China.

WAR IN UKRAINE
KELLOGG: PUTIN SHOULD AGREE TO NO MORE LAND GAINS

00:18:20 話者 1

Former US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg says achieving a ceasefire with Ukraine requires Russian President Vladimir Putin to acknowledge that he will not gain any more land from the country.

Kellogg served as a special envoy for Ukraine through December and was involved in peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv.

He visited Japan to attend Tokyo Conference 2026, organized by Gendron NPO, a Japanese think tank.

Kellogg said in an interview with NHK on Wednesday that a ceasefire is possible today if Ukraine and Russia freeze the current front lines.

00:18:56 話者 32/Keith Kellogg/Former US Special Envoy for Ukraine

The person who doesn't want a ceasefire is not Zelenskyy, it's Vladimir Putin.

00:19:04 話者 1

Russia wants Ukrainian forces to withdraw from the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine, while Ukraine refuses to cede it.

Kellogg says sanctions are taking a bite out of Russia's economy and that the country has probably suffered 1.2 million to 1.4 million killed or wounded.

00:19:23 話者 2

For Putin to agree, that's as far as he's going to get. He's not going to gain any more land.

It's for him to realize he's got nothing to gain. So that's That's the next steps.

00:19:37 話者 1

He said Putin is concerned that he'll be another Nicholas II, referring to the last Tsar who was shot dead after his abdication.

S.KOREA HAT-MAKING CRAFT AT RISK DESPITE NEWFOUND POPULARITY

Traditional Korean headpieces are increasingly popular, but the craft of making wide-brimmed black-cut headgear is at risk of dying out.

Even as artisans dwindle in number, old-school headpieces have grown in appeal, as symbols of so-called K-style, in which tradition and modern trends intersect.

NHK World's Kim Chan-ju tells us more.

00:20:16 話者 6/Kim Chan-ju

Tourists can be seen in proximilies of traditional court attire at Seoul's Gyeongbokgung Palace, which dates from the 14th century.

Many of the ensembles include khat, Historically worn by men of status.

00:20:33 話者 42

Honestly, it feels pretty awesome to wear it.

It's like my fourth time being in Korea, so it's actually cool just to actually wear this outfit.

00:20:42 話者 46

I think it feels really cool because we're experiencing how the attire used to be back then oh so long ago.

00:20:53 話者 6

Dramas such as this exemplify increased worldwide interest in all things South Korean.

This, combined with the newfound cultural pride among locals, lies behind the growing popularity of the kan.

Cat are increasingly in demand as a symbol of age-old sophistication and modern-day cool.

A K-pop singer donned a look-alike to perform for world leaders at an APEC summit gathering last year.

Jung Choon-mo has been crafting cat for nearly 60 years. He's one of only four government-recognized traditional cat artisans remaining in South Korea.

Master Chung began learning the craft at around age 20, and spent nearly two decades training under more experienced craftspeople to ensure the tradition would not fade away.

00:21:55 話者 43/Jung Choon-mo/Master Artisan of Horsehair Hat Making

The craftsmen were elderly, and no one was learning gut-making from them, so there was a risk that traditional techniques would disappear.

I decided to learn and pass on this skill to future generations.

00:22:07 話者 6

Jung's creations are on a different level from most of the traditionally styled headpieces in circulation, which are often machine-made versions of handcrafted Gat.

Hats turned out by Jung's atelier, meanwhile, are often worn by people who have been designated guardians of intangible cultural heritage, as he himself has.

An authentic cad requires meticulous attention to detail and involves 51 painstaking steps, says Jung.

Helping Jung are his wife, son, and daughter-in-law, who are responsible for various parts of the process.

The bamboo used to make the brim of a true cad is split into thread-like filaments before being carefully woven.

why the head covering is crafted from strands of horsetail.

Jung's son says he once had doubts about whether pursuing the craft could provide a stable future.

But he is now determined to learn everything he can from his father.

00:23:21 話者 44/Jung Han-soo/Jung Choon-mo's son

My teacher, who is also my father, persuaded me with his deep affection and thorough explanation.

Over time, I came to understand and align with him, and now I'm completely committed to this path.

00:23:37 話者 6

Although growing interest in the Gat is encouraging, Jung says he still feels concerned.

He points out that the labor-intensive process of making a Gat can take as long as six months, which represents a vulnerability.

00:23:55 話者 43

Making a Gat takes time and skill, so they are expensive. I hope we can make more progress with efforts to reduce the price with the help of government subsidies.

This would make Gat more attainable for those who want the real thing.

00:24:13 話者 6

The cat stands out as a symbol of both age-old skill and cutting-edge style.

Chung and his fellow artisans hope that their recent popularity will help ensure they continue to be the crowning glory of Korean craftsmanship.

Kim Chan-ju NHK World.

♫

WEATHER

00:24:53 話者 1

Now it's time to check out the world weather. Spring storms, including tornadoes, are hitting parts of the United States. Our meteorologist Yumi Hirano has the details.

00:25:03 話者 7/Yumi Hirano

Powerful storms swept from the deep south to the northeast, bringing wind gusts and tornadoes. People in parts of Indiana have been experiencing disruptions.

Violent storms spawned deadly tornadoes across Indiana on Wednesday.

The twisters damaged many homes and businesses.

A local resident who endured the storms said that they took cover in the bathtub.

Several power lines were damaged, leaving more than 20,000 people without electricity.

The system is expected to stretch along the east coast on Thursday.

There is a risk of thunder showers, gusty winds and tornadoes, especially from Florida to North Carolina.

On the other side of the continent, moisture from the Pacific is bringing heavy rain to the northwest with possible flooding. Heavy snow is also likely in higher elevations.

Showers expected in Seattle and Vancouver.

The temperature in New York will be 18, but temperatures will drop down in the afternoon with some snow expected later in the day.

Sunny skies are likely in LA, with a high of 34. A heat advisory is in effect through Friday.

Now moving to Japan.

A slow-moving low-pressure system is bringing snowfall to parts of Hokkaido on Thursday.

Wet and heavy snow could lead to a risk of avalanches.

Another storm is bringing intense rain showers to southern Kyushu, but it's expected to move away from the mainland on Friday.

So cloudy weather is likely in Tokyo with a high of only 11, but warm spring conditions are expected to come back over the weekend.

That's it for now. Have a nice day.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

00:27:41 話者 1

That wraps up this edition of NHK Newsline.

I'm Kanako Sachno in Tokyo. Thanks very much for joining us.

checked.

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20260311180000_english_1.mp3

 00:00:10 話者 1/Yoshikawa Ryuichi

Hello and welcome to NHK Newsline. I'm Yoshikawa Ryuichi in Tokyo.

We start with breaking news this hour.

BREAKING NEWS
JAPANESE SHIP DAMAGED IN PERSIAN GULF

A vessel belonging to the Japanese company Mitsui OSK Lines has been damaged in the Persian Gulf. No injuries have been reported.

Again, a vessel belonging to the Japanese company Mitsui OSK Lines has been damaged in the Persian Gulf. No injuries have been reported.

IRAN CONFLICT
TRUMP WARNS IRAN ON LAYING MINES IN STRAIT OF HORMUZ

Staying in the Middle East, US media is reporting that Iran is laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz.

Citing sources familiar with US intelligence, CNN says that Iran has laid a few dozen mines in the Strait.

The critical sea channel has been effectively closed since the conflict began.

US President Donald Trump responded by saying, There were no reports of Iran-laying mines, but if any were placed, they should be removed immediately.

He added that the military consequences will be at a level never seen before.

He later said that 10 inactive mine-laying boats or ships had been destroyed.

The US military released a video of docked ships being bombed.

It said multiple Iranian naval vessels were eliminated on Tuesday, including 16 minelayers near the Strait of Hormuz.

When asked if the military could escort ships through the strait, a top US official said they would consider a range of options to make sure they are ready.

But Iranian officials warned against such action, saying vessels linked to the so-called aggressors have no right to travel through.

According to the UN, the average number of ships passing through each day has fallen from 129 to just 4 on Saturday.

That's causing disruption in the energy markets in the form of higher prices.

IRAN CONFLICT
UAE REFINERY HALTS PRODUCTION AFTER DRONE ATTACK

Meanwhile, Bloomberg and AFP reports that UAE's biggest refinery, the Ruwais plant, halted operations. This came after a drone strike caused a fire in the surrounding area.

That refinery can process 922,000 barrels of oil per day.

REPORT: US PULLS MISSILE SYSTEMS FROM S.KOREA TO MIDDLE EAST

The Washington Post says the US military is moving parts of its THAAD anti-missile system deployed in South Korea to the Middle East.

It made the report on Monday, citing two officials.

The paper quoted one as saying the moves were a precautionary measure in case of increased retaliatory attacks by Iran.

South Korean media reported that US forces have also moved Patriot air defense systems out of South Korea.

South Korea's president addressed the matter in a cabinet meeting on Tuesday.

00:03:19 話者 2/Lee Jae Myung/South Korean President

While we have expressed opposition to such a move, the reality is that we cannot fully enforce opposition.

00:03:31 話者 1

The US military has deployed its THAAD system in South Korea to defend against North Korean missiles.

Yonhap News Agency reported that there are no equivalent alternatives to the system.

JAPAN MARKS 15 YEARS SINCE MARCH 11 DISASTER

Wednesday marks 15 years since the Great East Japan earthquake.

The magnitude 9 quake triggered massive tsunami, devastating areas across eastern Japan's Pacific coast.

19,711 people were killed, including those who died later from complications caused by the disaster. And even now, 15 years later, 2,519 people remain missing.

2:46pm, the exact moment the quake struck.

People in the hardest-hit prefectures observed a moment of silence.

From early morning, people offered prayers for the victims.

00:04:57 話者 3

I pray that those who remain missing can return to their families as soon as possible.

00:05:06 話者 1

Daigaku Toshihiko prayed for his wife, parents, brother, and nephew who died in the tsunami.

00:05:19 話者 4/Daigaku Toshihiko

I came here to pray. I tell them I'm doing well.

00:05:26 話者 1

In Otsuchi, Iwate Prefecture, the disaster left 1,286 people dead or missing, about 10% of the town's population. Yamazaki, Makoto's father, is still unaccounted for.

00:05:43 話者 5/Yamazaki Makoto

I've never forgotten him, even for one day. 

It feels like 15 years went by in the blink of an eye.

00:05:51 話者 1

A memorial ceremony was held in Fukushima Prefecture, which was heavily affected by the nuclear accident that followed the quake and tsunami.

Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae was among those in attendance.

00:06:07 話者 6/Takaichi Sanae

We will accelerate preparations to set up a disaster management agency by the end of the year.

It will serve as a control center for disaster response and help build a country that is resilient against disasters.

00:06:20 話者 1

A day of prayer and reflection across Japan, as people look for ways to carry on after the disaster.

THE LONG WAY HOME

One of those who was missing was Yamane Natsui.

She was just six years old when the disaster struck.

For over twice her lifetime, her family waited to learn what became of her.

Her remains were finally found last October.

00:06:58 話者 7

Nursery school children in Iwate Prefecture held a dance performance about a month before the earthquake. One of them, Natsuse, was autistic.

She was not able to verbally express her feelings, but was able to communicate and have fun.

00:07:28 話者 8

(Japanese)

00:07:44 話者 7

March 11, 2011.

In the morning, Natsuse attended class.

Her mother, Chiyumi, brought her home, but soon had to leave for work.

00:07:58 話者 8

(Japanese)

00:08:16 話者 7

After the mega quake struck, her father, Tomonori, rushed home.

The tsunami waves had already engulfed the ground floor.

Natsuse's grandmother was safe upstairs, but...

00:09:04 話者 9/Tomonori

(Japanese)

00:09:14 話者 7

Tomonori and Chiyumi spent long days visiting temporary morgues, searching for their daughter.

Tomonori could not stop thinking about Natsuse, even at work.

00:09:30 話者 9

(Japanese)

00:09:43 話者 7

Nearly 15 years later, the family received unexpected news.

Human remains had been recovered more than 70 kilometers south in Miyagi Prefecture.

Natsuse had finally been located. She left behind a brother, Daiya.

Her loss has traumatized him. When the topic of siblings came up at school, he would sometimes say he was an only child.

00:10:16 話者 10/Daiya

I didn't want to make people feel bad, so I didn't talk about her.

I used to think I could only talk to people I was really close to about her, someone like my wife, if I got married.

00:10:34 話者 7

Tomonori shows a photo he took with the officers who handled Natsuse's case.

00:10:40 話者 9

(Japanese)

00:11:37 話者 7

A nearly 15-year-long wait, the Yamane family is finally reunited.

QUAKE ACTIVITY DOWN, BUT PERSISTS 15 YEARS LATER

00:11:52 話者 1

The area has also continued to grapple with earthquakes.

While seismic activity in the region has decreased, it still remains active.

The Japan Meteorological Agency tracks tremors in the aftershock zone.

They are categorized according to Japan's seismic intensity scale, which goes from 0 to 7.

Since the disaster in 2011, there have been over 16,800 quakes with an intensity of 1 or higher.

But the number has been decreasing over time.

In 2011, the JMA recorded about 7,600 earthquakes that dropped to 365 last year.

But some of them were significant.

A magnitude 6.9 quaker cart off the coast of Sanriku last November.

It prompted tsunami advisories for coastal areas in Iwate Prefecture.

and a magnitude 7.5 earthquake hit shortly after off the east coast of Aomori Prefecture.

An intensity of upper 6 was recorded in the area, and a 64-centimeter tsunami was observed at a port in Iwate.

The Japanese government's earthquake research committee says the region could see another big quake.

It looked at the coastline from Hokkaido to Kanto.

It says there is a slightly high to high probability that a magnitude 8-class earthquake will hit in the next 30 years.

There is also a high probability of a magnitude 7-class in many areas over the same period.

00:13:36 話者 11/Obara Kazushige/Earthquake Research Committee chair

As a whole, the number of earthquakes is decreasing, but seismic activity continues to be active in areas near the coast.

00:13:49 話者 1

The committee's chair is calling on people to stay alert.

BUSINESS

And now for business stories, here's Gene Otani.

00:13:58 話者 12/Gene Otani

Yuichi, thanks. A top bissiness stories this hour.

IRAN CONFLICT
G7 LEADERS TO MEET ON IRAN CRISIS, THREATS TO ENERGY SUPPLY

Leaders of the Group of Seven Nations will meet on Wednesday to discuss the Middle East conflict and the threat to the global economy, especially oil supply.

France, which holds the G7 presidency, announced the online summit.

The gathering will follow a conference call between G7 energy ministers on Tuesday.

Japan's Industry Minister Akazawa Ryosei and International Energy Agency Executive Director Fatih Biro attended.

Akazawa told reporters that the IEA proposed the release of oil reserves, considering the situation in the market.

Akazawa said that Japan supports the joint release of reserves.

He said Asian countries are already seeing the effects of oil tankers being blocked from passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

French Finance Minister Roland Lescure also spoke to reporters on Tuesday.

00:14:59 話者 13/Roland Lescure

We asked the AIE, which was hosting the meeting, to work on numbers, to update the stockpiling data to the most recent date.

00:15:12 話者 12

Lescure said the latest figures will help countries decide on the amounts of oil that could be released from reserves.

IRAN CONFLICT
IEA SAID TO PLAN LARGEST-EVER RELEASE OF STOCKPILED OIL

The International Energy Agency is reportedly proposing the largest release of crude oil reserves in its history to reduce energy prices.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Biro made the proposal at a meeting of IEA member countries on Tuesday. It cited officials familiar with the matter.

Oil prices surged earlier this week amid the hostilities in the Middle East.

The US newspaper says the IEA's 32 member nations are expected to decide whether to approve the proposal on Wednesday.

IRAN CONFLICT
JAPAN'S GASOLINE PRICES RISE FOR 4TH STRAIGHT WEEK

The rising cost of crude oil is beginning to take a toll on Japanese society.

Prices of gasoline at the pump have risen for the fourth straight week.

The Oil Information Center, which monitors price trends, says as of Monday, a liter of regular gasoline averaged 161.8 yen, or about $1.02.

That's up roughly two cents from the week before.

It's also the first time in three months it topped 160 yen.

The surge reflects the rising trend in crude futures. It's a guidepost for Asian markets.

The center says gasoline is likely to keep getting more expensive next week.

Meanwhile, the government is considering support for people to cope with higher gasoline costs, as well as electricity and gas utility bills.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara Minoru says plans are in the works to unveil the package at an appropriate time.

00:17:02 話者 14/Kihara Minoru

We will closely watch how the Middle East situation affects the economy.

We will take all measures for fiscal and economic stability in line with price trends.

00:17:11 話者 12

Kihada also said the cabinet has begun considering ways to diversify crude oil supplies.

JR EAST TO RAISE FARES FOR FIRST TIME SINCE 1987

East Japan Railway is raising fares for the first time in nearly 40 years.

It says ticket prices will go up from Saturday by an average of just over 7 percent.

This is JR East's first across-the-board price hike since its founding in 1987, not including adjustments to keep up with the consumption tax.

It expects to raise more than $550 million in additional revenue for upgrades and repairs.

President and CEO Kise Yoichi said on Tuesday the company wasn't bringing in enough money to keep pace with inflation.

00:18:05 話者 15/Kise Yoichi

We will further improve levels of safety and service to build a railway that is secure and comfortable for passengers to use. This is something we are determined to accomplish.

00:18:18 話者 12

Ticket offices have been crowded with people wanting to book fares or buy commuter passes before prices rise.

00:18:29 話者 27

I frequently use the trains, so even a small fare increase is an extra burden for me, considering the inflation we are dealing with.

00:18:39 話者 25

It's probably inevitable because the facilities are aging and the costs of labor and other things are just going up.

00:18:47 話者 12

JRE says its passenger numbers have not been rising as Japan's population shrinks and more people are working from home.

MARKETS

All right, let's have a look at the markets.

♪

That's it for business news.

♫～

00:20:21 話者 1

Please do access the NHK Royal Japan website for more details.

N.KOREA TESTS MISSILE LAUNCHES FROM NEW DESTROYER

North Korean media say the country has conducted test launches of strategic cruise missiles from a new destroyer.

This comes as Pyongyang is expressing strong opposition to an ongoing military exercise held by the US and South Korea.

State-run Korean Central Television says the missiles were launched on Tuesday from a new 5-thousand-ton-class destroyer.

They reportedly flew for nearly two hours and 50 minutes off the western coast of the Korean Peninsula before striking their targets.

Pyongyang last conducted test launches on March 4.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un observed the launches on a remote monitoring system.

South Korean experts say the missiles may be capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

The US and South Korea began conducting a joint exercise on Monday, simulating an emergency on the Korean Peninsula.

Kim's sister released a statement Tuesday, denouncing the drill as a rehearsal for a provocative and dangerous war.

CHINA-N.KOREA PASSENGER TRAINS TO RESUME SERVICE

A Chinese state-owned railway company says it will resume passenger train services to North Korea on Thursday.

Operations were suspended in January 2020 due to the spread of the coronavirus.

The company announced trains will start running again between Beijing and Pyongyang.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday that China and North Korea are friendly and close neighbors.

The spokesperson also said maintaining regular passenger train services is important for facilitating exchanges of people between the two countries.

Pyongyang has been strengthening its relations more with Beijing since North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited China last September.

WEATHER

It's time for a check on the world weather with your meteorologist, Jonathan Oh.

So, Jonathan, severe weather hammered central parts of the United States overnight.

What's the latest?

00:22:45 話者 16/Jonathan Oh

Hello, we have been monitoring a stretch of storms extending from the Great Lakes way down to the southern plains of the United States.

We're talking about numerous storm reports, including at least 16 tornado reports, especially around the northern portion of Illinois, Indiana, and over 300 reports of hail extending down toward the south.

The reason why we're seeing all these storms popping up is because we have a cold front that's pushing on through very warm air ahead of that, and essentially the cold front has so much energy behind it, it's kind of kicking up against the hot air, and it's really firing up these storms.

And I want to mention that these storms are firing up not during the daytime, but at night, which makes it even more concerning, and it's really showing the real difference in the power behind these storms.

That's not the end of the story when it comes to the possibility of severe weather.

The cold front continues to move toward the east, and so those along the Appalachian Mountains and along the eastern seaboard need to look out for the possibility of strong to severe thunderstorms as we go through Wednesday.

And that cold air I'm mentioning is actually going to bring snow into Chicago.

You see the 14 marker on there for Wednesday, but that's where the day starts.

Temperatures will drop. Cold air moves in.

We're talking about some real snow into the situation here for Wednesday.

Winnipeg also seeing some snow.

Separate system will bring some rain to the Pacific Northwest for the middle of the work week.

Meanwhile, it's a lot calmer in Japan compared to what we saw on Tuesday.

Wednesday, we saw high pressure taking over the weather pattern, relatively calm pattern in place.

And as we go into Thursday, that will still be the story. Maybe talk about a little bit of precipitation up toward the north, but otherwise, relatively dry.

Sapporo will get partly cloudy skies.

13 in Tokyo, looking at mid-teens into Fukuoka as we go through today on Thursday.

Quick note on Europe, cold front moving in from the north and west.

It will bring some rain as we go today on Wednesday for places like Paris and thunderstorms into Rome.

Hope you have a good day wherever you are.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

LAMBING SEASON IN FULL SWING AT FARM IN HOKKAIDO

00:26:25 話者 1

And one more story before we go.

A sheep ranch in Hokkaido, northern Japan, is enjoying a baby boom with the arrival of spring.

The city of Shibetsu is famous for sheep breeding.

Hekora farm is home to about 700 sheep that are raised for meat.

They include the Suffolk breed, which has a black head and legs.

Newborn lambs began to appear in early February this year.

More than 300 have been born so far.

Lambs about two weeks old were seen staying close to their mothers, drinking milk and jumping around.

The farm's sheep keeper says she feels happy when seeing the lambs every year.

00:27:17 話者 17/Ehara Yuka/Sheep keeper, Pecora Farm

There are cases in which young lambs die even for a small reason.

So, we'd like to keep an eye on them so that they grow up healthy.

00:27:28 話者 1

The lambing season at the farm is expected to continue until April. Farm staff say baby lambs will be separated from their mothers after about two-and-a-half months.

And that wraps up this edition of NHK Newsline.

I'm Yoshikawa Ryuichi in Tokyo. Thanks for joining us.

checked.

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20260310180000_english_1.mp3

 00:00:10 話者 1/Yamamoto Miki

Hello. Welcome to NHK Newsline. I'm Yamamoto Miki in Tokyo.

IRAN CONFLICT
TRUMP WARNS IRAN STRAIT OF HORMUZ WILL REMAIN OPEN

US President Donald Trump says the US-Israeli military strikes against Iran have been largely successful, but warns the US will hit back hard if Tehran blocks the flow of oil.

00:00:27 話者 2/Donald Trump

We're achieving major strides toward completing our military objective.

And some people could say they're pretty well complete.

We've wiped every single force in Iran out very completely.

00:00:44 話者 1

Trump said that in the 10 days since the start of the military operation, US forces have struck more than 5,000 targets and sunk more than 50 Iranian naval ships.

He also said Iran now has 90 percent fewer missile launchers and that Iranian drone attacks have dropped by more than 80 percent.

Referring to the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said it is going to remain safe and even suggested temporarily lifting oil related sanctions on some countries.

00:01:16 話者 2

We have a lot of navy ships there. 

We have the best equipment in the world, inspecting for mines. 

Again, most of their ships are down at the bottom of the sea, but we will hit them so hard.

00:01:31 話者 1

The president also warned on social media that if Iran does anything to stop the flow of oil within the strait, the country will be hit by the US 20 times harder than it has been hit so far.

But a senior official with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps showed no sign of backing down on Tuesday.

In a statement to Tasnim news agency, he said Iran's armed forces will not permit the export of even a single liter of oil.

IRAN CONFLICT
INVESTIGATIVE GROUP: US LIKELY BEHIND SCHOOL ATTACK

The Red Crescent Society says more than 13,000 houses, schools and other civilian facilities have been damaged by the airstrikes, which began on February 28.

Meanwhile, an independent investigative group says it is likely the US military was responsible for last month's attack on an elementary school in Iran that killed scores of people.

The group released its analysis on Sunday of video footage purportedly capturing the very moment of the US strike.

The international group Bellingcat says it studied the footage, which was posted online by an Iranian news agency.

The group says the video shows the exact moment a Tomahawk missile struck an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps facility near the school.

Iran's education ministry earlier said the attack in Hormuz, Gan province killed 168 people, including children.

Bellingcat says the United States is the only participant in the military conflict that is known to have Tomahawk missiles.

The group's analysis appears to contradict Trump, who on Saturday accused Tehran of being responsible for the attack. He said, Based on what I've seen, that was done by Iran.

IRAN CONFLICT
AUSTRALIA GRANTS VISAS TO 5 FEMALE IRANIAN SOCCER PLAYERS

Australia has granted visas to five members of the Iranian women's soccer team who Trump said risked losing their lives if they returned home.

00:03:38 話者 3/Anthony Albanese/Australian Prime Minister

We issued five humanitarian visas to members of the Iranian women's soccer team.

They're safe here and they should feel at home here.

00:03:48 話者 1

Reuters and other media say their team was criticised for refusing to sing Iran's national anthem before an Asian Cup match in Australia.

A host on Iranian state TV reportedly called the team's members wartime traitors.

The 5 players are said to have left their accommodations on Monday night.

They are now under Australian police protection.

On Monday, Trump posted a message on social media urging the Australian government to give the athletes asylum.

He said Australia was making a humanitarian mistake by allowing the team to be forced back to Iran. He said if they returned, they would most likely be killed.

IRAN CONFLICT
MORE JAPANESE NATIONALS REPATRIATED FROM MIDDLE EAST

A second group of Japanese nationals has been evacuated from the Middle East.

A flight chartered by the Japanese government landed near Tokyo on Tuesday.

The plane departed from Saudi Arabia with 281 people on board.

The government has been helping to repatriate Japanese nationals from Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

00:04:55 話者 13

I'm relieved.

00:04:59 話者 14

Many are still there and I'm worried about their situation.

00:05:06 話者 1

Another Japanese flight carrying 107 passengers arrived from Oman on Sunday.

The government plans to charter two more additional planes from Saudi Arabia and the UAE to evacuate those who want to leave.

BUSINESS

Now for business stories, let's turn to Gene Otani from The Business Gene.

00:05:33 話者 3/Gene Otani

Miki, thanks. In our top business story this hour, 

IRAN CONFLICT
JAPAN TO BACK G7 ON ENERGY SUPPLY, MULLS UTILgdITY SUBSIDIES

Japanese Finance Minister Katayama Satsuki has taken part in an online meeting of the Group of Seven countries.

She agreed to take the necessary steps to support the global energy supply.

00:05:53 話者 4/Katayama Satsuki

It is essential to maintain information sharing among G7 finance ministers, as the situation in the Middle East remains fluid.

I said at the meeting that we should work closely together to roll out the necessary messages and measures in a timely manner.

00:06:10 話者 3

Meanwhile, Japan's government is considering utility subsidies to help smaller companies and households amid a higher energy price outlook.

That's due to the elevated futures prices for crude oil and natural gas.

During a diet session, Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae said the government began considering the outlook and immediate measures early last week.

Takaichi said these include support for gasoline and diesel fuel costs, as well as electricity and gas spills. She said the government would act before it's too late to do so.

IRAN CONFLICT
ANALYST: HIGH ENERGY PRICES WOULD SLOW GLOBAL GDP GROWTH

Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi comments on crude oil futures staying at the current high range of $85 to $90 per barrel.

He says that would shave up to 0.4 percentage points off global GDP expansion in the coming year.

00:07:10 話者 5/Mark Zandi

The impact of the higher oil energy prices is not only just the dollars and cents involved, which are obviously considerable, but it's the impact on sentiment and psychology.

I mean, I think globally sentiment is already pretty weak.

Consumers and business psychology is very fragile.

00:07:26 話者 3

Zandi added that Asia would suffer particularly given its dependence on energy imports.

He touched on US President Donald Trump's comment at CBS News on Monday that the war is pretty much complete.

The comment has raised expectations in financial markets for an early end to the Iran conflict.

00:07:48 話者 5

Hopefully it means that the conflict is going to wind down here pretty soon.

I mean, I think that's the most likely scenario. 

I mean, the president has been very sensitive to the stock market, to bond yields, to what's going on with gasoline prices, and all those things would suggest that he would bring this conflict to an end quickly.

00:08:06 話者 3

Crude oil prices also surge after Russia invaded Ukraine. But Zandi said one of the biggest differences this time is that the conflict was started by the US and Israel, and they can end it whenever they feel it's appropriate.

IRAN CONFLICT
TOKYO STOCKS REBOUND AS OIL SUPPLY WORRIES EASE

Japan's benchmark stock index rebounded sharply on Tuesday as concerns eased that the Middle East conflict could disrupt global oil supplies.

The Nikkei 225 gained nearly 2.9 percent at close at 54,248. It rose 3.7 percent at one stage after G7 member nations indicated they are ready to release oil reserves if needed.

US President Trump also said the Iran conflict will end soon.

The Nikkei index plunged 5.2% on Monday amid oil supply worries.

That was a fall of nearly 2,900 points, or its third biggest drop on record.

JAPAN REVISES UP OCT .- DEC. GDP ON ROBUST CAPITAL INVESTMENT

Japan has revised its gross domestic product upward for the October to December period last year on the back of stronger capital investment and personal spending.

The figure released by the Cabinet Office on Tuesday showed an annualized GDP growth rate of 1.3%. The preliminary reading last month indicated an expansion of 0.2%.

Stronger capital investments, such as in construction of chip manufacturing factories, It helped drive the gain.

Personal spending, which accounts for more than half of GDP, was revised up to 0.3 percent. The preliminary figure was 0.1 percent.

The reading for exports was unchanged, with a fall of 0.3 percent.

However, the contraction was smaller than the previous quarter.

This is as the US lowered tariffs on automobiles and other goods from Japan.

AI STEPS IN AS JAPAN'S FARM WORKFORCE SHRINKS

Japan's agriculture workforce is both aging and shrinking. One estimate warns that current production levels may be unsustainable without major changes.

We look at how artificial intelligence is being used to modernize this traditional sector.

00:10:25 話者 6/Narrator: Kitadai Hiroko

This dairy farm keeps over 200 cows. Many advanced tools are already in place.

Milking is fully automated by robots.

An app can photograph a cow and instantly estimate its size and weight, useful for understanding its growth.

On top of that, the farm is also partnering with the university and private companies on an AI system that predicts milk output. It is still in the trial phase.

00:11:04 話者 7/Sugino Toshihisa/Director, Dairy Ecosystem R&D Center, Hiroshima University

By forecasting yields, we can keep production steady.

It helps us maintain a year-round balance between supply and demand.

00:11:12 話者 6

A cow's milk production is influenced by its health and the weather, creating major challenges. Each cow wears a sensor that tracks its activity.

Temperature, humidity, and other data are fed into AI, which forecasts how much each cow will produce over the next two weeks.

Based on those projections, ventilation and feed are adjusted, stabilizing both quality and quantity, and raising overall output.

00:11:49 話者 16/Oki Takanori/Executive Director, Tom Milk Farm

Our goal is to produce milk efficiently with minimal waste. If AI can analyze the data and suggest simple practical steps, it leads to stronger action plans.

00:12:04 話者 6

New technologies may also help offset the shrinking workforce.

The number of people whose main job is farming has fallen by around 40% in the past decade. About 70% of those who remain are at least 65 years old.

One projection shows that, to maintain current production, productivity in 2050 must be 4.5 times what it is now.

A new project is testing how AI can streamline farm operations with fewer workers.

A think tank and a Tokyo tech firm are developing a system that plans daily tasks.

Weather forces last-minute adjustments.

The AI generates new schedules and required worker numbers.

A large body of farming expertise is being fed into the system, such as methods for measuring onion growth.

The aim is highly efficient agriculture, with AI acting as an advisor that also manages soil data, work logs, and other information.

One expert says that Japan's agriculture sector has found a crucial partner in AI.

00:13:34 話者 8/Noguchi Noboru/Professor, Research Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University

Introducing AI can spark real innovation. It will reshape how we think about farming and may even attract more young people to the industry.

MARKETS

00:13:49 話者 3

All right, let's have a look at the markets.

♪

And that's it for business news.

WHAT THE OCEAN KEPT: 15 YEARS AFTER DISASTER

00:14:31 話者 1

The Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami left more than 22,000 people dead or missing. In Osuchi Town, Iwate Prefecture, that number sits at 1,200.

Waves up to 22 meters high hit the area.

And 15 years later, the town may appear peaceful again.

But reminders of the disaster remain below the surface.

NHK World's Sumida Wataru went diving to show us them up close.

00:15:00 話者 8/Sumida Wataru

I'm 70 meters offshore on the seabed at a depth of 7 meters.

The water temperature is 6 degrees Celsius.

but it's starting to rise slightly, as it usually does at this time of year.

It causes an increase in plankton, lowering visibility.

Beside me lies a large piece of silver-colored metal. 

It was part of a ship made of aluminum.

A vessel was under construction at a nearby shipyard at the time of the disaster.

It's believed to have been destroyed by the tsunami and carried to this spot.

The part was crossed so badly, it's hard to tell what it once was.

The damage really gives a sense of the tsunami's power.

Now, take a look down here. I can see a yellow line.

It's believed to be the center line of a road.

This footage was taken on the seabed, about 800 meters from where I am now.

A concrete bridge broke apart and sank here.

There was a plate engraved with the bridge's name.

It's believed to be from Nozomi Bridge, which was tested nearby.

Nozomi means hope in Japanese.

The total amount of debris washed into the sea is estimated at 5 million tons.

Some of what remained on the seabed has been removed over the years.

But anything that doesn't interfere with ship navigation or fishing operations remains here.

Also looking for traces of the disaster on the seabed is Sato Hiroshi, a diver from Iwate Prefecture.

Immediately after the disaster, he began recovering sunken objects and searching for mission people.

In Otsuji town, more than 400 people are still unaccounted for.

Within two months, Sato formed a non-profit organization with fellow divers.

So far, they have removed roughly 1,000 tons of submerged items.

00:18:50 話者 9/Sato Hiroshi/Founder and Representative, NPO Sanriku Volunteer Divers

I went diving after a storm the other day and found a bag.

Even after 15 years, new items are still being discovered.

I hope they help lead to the people still missing.

I want what remains underwater, these remnants of the disaster, to serve both as a lesson to people in other regions and abroad, and as a lasting reminder for generations who have no memory of the tsunami.

00:19:19 話者 8

Even 15 years later, the remnants on the seafloor continue to bear witness, to the lives of people affected by the disaster.

Sumida Wataru, NHK World.

POLICE RENEW SEARCH FOR 2011 TSUNAMI VICTIMS

00:19:41 話者 1

Searches have also taken place elsewhere in the region ahead of the disaster's anniversary Wednesday. 

Police looked for victims' remains in the city of Ishinomaki in Miyagi Prefecture.

Officers and other personnel searched Ajishima Island and the surrounding waters.

They sifted through sand and rocks and used a specially-equipped boat to look for clues underwater. Police say 1,213 people are still unaccounted for in the prefecture.

00:20:14 話者 7/Chiba Tomohiro/Ishinomaki Police Station

It's been 15 years since the disaster, and the conditions at our search sites have changed significantly.

We want to uncover as many clues as possible, anything that might offer even the smallest lead for the families of those still missing.

00:20:32 話者 1

Monday's search uncovered no new findings, but police say their efforts will continue.

15    YEARS      A FTER    3/11
SPECIAL  COVERAGE   LIVE
Mar. 11: NEW YORK      01:40
                  LONDON      05:40
                  TOKYO         14:40

And NHK World will have a special program for the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan earthquake and nuclear power plant accident.

40 p.m. Japan time on Wednesday.

We will bring you live coverage of a moment of silence observed at the exact time the earthquake hit and reflect on the country's lasting grief and lessons learned from the disaster.

♫

N.KOREAN LEADER'S SISTER CONDEMNS US-S.KOREA DRILLS

The sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has denounced a joint military exercise currently being conducted by the United States and South Korea.

She called it a rehearsal for a provocative and aggressive war.

The Freedom Shield exercise began on Monday in South Korea and will continue through March 19. The goal is to prepare for a possible emergency on the Korean Peninsula.

Kim Yo-jong released a statement on Tuesday through state media criticizing the drills.

She warned they would further damage the stability of the region.

The drills include field training sessions, but they've been scaled down to less than half the scope of last year.

This is because the South Korean government of President Lee Jae-myong is looking to resume dialogue with the North.

But Kim Yo-jong noted the adjustment does not change the confrontational nature of the exercise. She added that drills could lead to unimaginable and terrible consequences.

JAPAN APPROVES DRAFT LAW REVISION FOR NEW ONLINE ENTRY CHECKS

The Japanese government has approved a draft amendment to immigration-related legislation that will introduce a new online platform to streamline entry checks for visitors from overseas.

The approval came at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday. 

The draft revision says the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or JESTA, will be introduced by the end of March 2029.

Visitors from some 70 countries and regions exempted from short-term visas for tourism and other purposes will be eligible for online immigration checks under the system prior to leaving for Japan.

Passengers on cruise ships making port calls in Japan and those who enter the country temporarily to transfer to other ships are also eligible.

The system is aimed at streamlining immigration procedures, as well as preventing foreign nationals who have plans to overstay in Japan from entering the country.

The draft revision also states that current fees for obtaining residence permits in Japan would be raised during the next fiscal year starting in April, following in the footsteps of other countries.

Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae's government plans to have the draft amendment enacted during the current session of the diet.

♫～

And please do access the NHK Rural Japan website for more details.

WEATHER

Let's check out the world weather with our meteorologist, Jonathan Oh, so Jonathan, wow, we saw some snow in parts of Tokyo Tuesday morning.

When's the spring weather coming back?

00:25:04 話者 10/Jonathan Oh

Hello, we had another taste of winter across even places like Tokyo as we went through Tuesday. I want to show you some video that's coming out from the area.

It looked and felt like winter in central Tokyo Tuesday as snow and frigid rain fell in parts of the capital during the morning hours.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, temperatures were as cold as 2 degrees Celsius during the morning hours.

While skies did clear during the day, the cold continues to remain in place.

Now the low pressure system that was responsible for bringing the wintry precipitation will continue to move toward the east.

High pressure comes in behind it, which means we'll be seeing a little bit of a moderation temperature, which is more normal for this time of year.

But it may not be the end of the story when it comes to the possibility of seeing more wintry type precipitation for places like Tokyo as we go later on this week.

Looking at the forecast here, yeah, dry across the board in Japan from Sapporo to Fukuoka for Wednesday and even into Thursday.

But Friday, we're looking at another different  temperatures again with daytime highs likely around 8 degrees in Tokyo with a chance of rain and even Sapporo, even some snow possibility.

So we'll have to keep an eye on that as we look toward the end of the week before things go back to normal as we head toward Saturday.

Meanwhile, looking at what's happening across North America down toward the south, it's quite hot.

And with the instability moving into the area, that's creating more strong thunderstorms in the area. And we'll have to look out for that as we go through the day on Tuesday.

Atlanta looking at some thunderstorms with a high of 26. 28 in Oklahoma City, the front to the north of there, helping to trigger some of the rain and unstable weather.

Back to the north and west, very different story. We're talking about winter weather, snow into places like Vancouver and Seattle with highs in the single digits.

Winnipeg staying below freezing with snow as it progresses through the day on Tuesday.

That's a look at your forecast. Hope you have a good day wherever you are.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

00:27:41 話者 1

And that's NHK Newsline for this hour.

I'm Yamamoto Miki in Tokyo. Thank you for staying with us.

checked.

at 18:00 (JST), March 09

20260309180000_english_1.mp3

 00:00:10 話者 1/Yamamoto Miki

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

IRAN CONFLICT
NIKKEI 225 MARKS 3RD-LARGEST FALL

Tokyo stocks tumbled on Monday. The sell-off came amid rising fears that a disruption to oil supplies could damage global economic growth.

Our senior business correspondent Yasui Seiichi is at the Tokyo Stock Exchange to walk us through Monday's trading.

00:00:32 話者 2/Yasui Seiichi

The conflict in the Middle East is driving up crude oil prices, which is unnerving stock market investors.

The benchmark Nikkei 225 finished at 52-thousand-728. down 2,892 points, or 5.2%.

The index marked its third largest decline on record at the close.

Earlier, it briefly plunged more than 4,200 points, or 7.5%, the second biggest intraday point drop ever.

Investors are becoming increasingly concerned about a stable supply of crude oil.

Japan relies heavily on imports, and a growing number of energy-related facilities in the Middle East have been damaged.

The hostilities are preventing oil tankers from passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for exports.

The threat to oil supplies is now the main focus of investors, as they reposition themselves in the market.

Yasui Seiichi, NHK world from the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

IRAN CONFLICT
TRUMP REACTS AS KHAMENEI'S SON NAMED NEW SUPREME LEADER

00:01:41 話者 1

The second son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been named Iran's new supreme leader.

The US president was quick to react, telling US media he is not happy with the decision.

Trump had previously called Mojtaba Khamenei "a lightweight and an unacceptable selection."

Washtaba Khamenei is said to have deep ties with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Basij militia group, but he has never held public posts and little is known about him.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeskian said in a statement that this decision marks a new era of dignity and will consolidate national unity.

IRAN CONFLICT
EXCHANGE OF ATTACKS IN REGION CONTINUES

Meanwhile, the exchange of attacks in the region continues.

On Sunday, the Israeli military announced that it had carried out large-scale airstrikes on Tehran and other locations in Iran.

Around 50 ammunition depots belonging to security agencies were targeted as well as their headquarters.

In response, Iran has repeatedly launched missiles toward Israel and continues to carry out attacks on Gulf countries.

Kuwait's state-run media reported that government facilities had come under attack.

In Saudi Arabia, two people were killed in an explosion near the capital, Riyadh.

CNN reports that these are the first fatality in that country since the conflict began.

Bahrain's health ministry says 32 people have been injured in Iranian drone attacks that took place early on Monday. Among them is a two-month-old baby.

Images from Reuters news agency also show thick smoke rising from the direction of the Bakko oil refinery.

Due to the heightened tensions in Iran, the Japanese government is assisting Japanese travelers and others who wish to leave four Middle Eastern countries: Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

At a news conference on Monday, Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihada Minoru announced that a second charter flight is scheduled to depart from Saudi Arabia and that additional flights will be arranged in the coming days.

ANALYSIS: DECODING CARNEY'S GLOBAL STRATEGY

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney wrapped up his multi-country tour with a stop in Japan, his first since taking office.

He met with his counterpart Takaichi Sanae and they agreed to launch a bilateral economic security dialogue.missile

But that wasn't the only topic on Kearney's mind. The Iran conflict and boosting ties with countries in similar positions are some of his other focuses.

He discussed them in an exclusive interview with NHK World's US correspondent Mori Kenichi. He told me about it earlier.

Kenichi, Carney has attracted a lot of attention because of his speech a couple of months ago he made at the World Economic Forum in Davos, and he continues to convey a lot of the same messages. What stands out to you?

00:04:54 話者 3/Mori Kenichi

I think one of the key ones is that the world order has been ruptured, and the old one is not coming back.

He emphasizes how so-called middle powers should work together, though he stresses that it's not about uniting every single one of them.

00:05:13 話者 4/Mark Carney

The point is that, depending on the issue, forming coalitions that are important to other countries, where you share the values, you can accomplish a lot.

And the more of those coalitions you form, the more diversified you are as a country.

00:05:31 話者 3

He's pushing for flexible correlations whenever necessary.

This approach resembles how businesses diversify supply chains to keep producing even when unexpected disruptions occur.

It also reflects a realistic outlook.

No single country will take the lead, and each nation must advance its own initiatives.

00:05:55 話者 1

Right. The US and Israel have been advancing an operation of their own recently in Iran.

How is Carney addressing that?

00:06:03 話者 3

It's a tricky matter for Carney and others respond to.

He points out that Canada is not being kept in the loop.

00:06:13 話者 4

We weren't consulted. nor were most other allies.

We're not consulted on the action that's taken.

We're not a party to the action. We're not engaged in the action. And we're dealing, in effect, with the consequences of that for our citizens in the region.

00:06:33 話者 3

When the fighting first broke out, Canada quickly declared its support for the United States.

Some media outlets have suggested it appeared inconsistent with the firm's stance toward Washington that he voiced in Davos.

In my interview, Carney reiterated Canada's support for preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

His remarks again reflect his realism. That is, since the situation has already escalated, the priority is to ensure Iran does not regain nuclear ambitions in the future.

00:07:12 話者 1

Now, before visiting Japan, Carney traveled to India, to Australia, and in January met with China's president. What's behind these efforts to boost ties?

00:07:23 話者 3

As I mentioned earlier, Carney said the world faces a different reality.

And he has been at the doorstep of one of the biggest reasons for this, US President Donald Trump and his approach to trade.

00:07:39 話者 4

That is destabilizing because you have agreements, you have rules, and then the other side decides not to follow those agreements and change the rules.

00:07:49 話者 3

Somehow interpreted Carney's response as a move away from America.

But in the interview, it became clear that his stance is not anti-American or post-American.

Rather, it's about reducing over-dependence on the United States.

His swift outreach to China and India ties that had cooled in recent years fits his strategy of expanding Canada's options.

Last month, he unveiled a plan to strengthen Canada's domestic defense industry.

That's another step intended to reduce realliance on the United States.

With abandoned resources such as critical minerals and the energy, Canada appears ready to explore broader partnership with other nations.

00:08:43 話者 1

And one of those nations being Japan, evidently, Tell us about that.

00:08:47 話者 3

During the interview, Carney described Japan as Canada's closest friend.

In fact, he once even called it home. He used to live here for a period of time.

Setting aside any diplomatic courtesy, it's clear he regards Japan as a stable, reliable partner with whom Canada has few strategic divergencies.

As he has been advocating for, the countries are expected to form coalitions on a sector-by-sector basis.

These will likely span areas such as critical minerals, energy, and AI.

Carney does warn that these sectors could themselves become triggers for conflict.

Conversely, if their countries lead efforts to create stable frameworks in such fields, it may reduce tensions and contribute to preventing future conflict.

He again says that it's worth focusing on areas where countries can find agreement.

He points out one example, how Japan and Canada both care about climate change.

00:10:00 話者 4

We make sure that we bring our resources together, we produce cleaner cars, we produce cleaner power. Down the road, the US will come to that.

We will be better off having done that today. So we don't wait for the United States.

We prepare for when the United States comes towards us.

00:10:21 話者 3

So Carney  seemed to have his eye on long game, and that requires building relationships.

In an increasingly uncertain world, this kind of cooperation becomes all more important.

NEW MISSILE SYSTEM BOOSTS SDF ABILITIES IN SOUTHWEST JAPAN

00:10:46 話者 1

Japan's defense ministry has delivered an extended-range anti-ship missile system to a ground self-defense force camp in southwestern Japan.

The move is aimed at boosting the country's counter-strike capabilities.

A launcher, a guidance system and other equipment were brought into Camp Kengu in Kumamoto Prefecture earlier on Monday.

They are intended for an upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship missile.

It has an extended range of about 1,000 kilometers and can strike ships at sea and other targets. The missiles will be deployed at the camp this month for the first time.

It comes amid China's heightened military activities around Japan's Nansei Islands, as well as North Korea's repeated ballistic missile launches.

Protesters rallied outside the camp to oppose the deployment.

Some carried placards saying no missiles.

The defense ministry did not hold any explanatory meetings for local residents about the installation.

Work to roll out extended-range missiles is also expected to start at other SDF units.

EX-UNIFICATION CHURCH APPEALS TO JAPAN'S SUPREME COURT

The group, widely known as the Unification Church, has appealed to Japan's Supreme Court to overturn a ruling by a lower court ordering its dissolution.

The Tokyo High Court last week upheld the order to disband the group as a religious cooperation.

It found the group's practice of collecting massive donations violated civil law.

The judge pointed out many people suffered extensive property losses and mental pain as a result.

The group had described the dissolution order as unfair, claiming it was a foregone conclusion and in violation of the principle of trial by evidence.

The order strips the group of its legal status as a religious corporation and denies it tax benefits.

Procedures are underway to dispose of the group's assets and compensate those who suffered financial damage.

The group was cast into the spotlight after the fatal shooting of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo in 2022.

The shooter said he believed Abe had close ties to the group.

He said his mother had made large donations to it, bringing financial ruin.

BUSINESS

Now for more business stories, here's Gene Otani from The Biz Desk.

00:13:20 話者 5/Gene Otani

Miki, thanks. In other top business stories this hour, 

JAPAN'S REAL WAGES MARK FIRST RISE IN 13 MONTHS

the wages of Japanese workers grew in January by more than inflation for the first time in 13 months.

Preliminary data released by the Labor Ministry show RealPay rose 1.4% in January from the same month last year.

That was based on a nationwide survey of over 30,000 businesses with at least five employees.

Nominal wages, including overtime, averaged just over 300,000 yen, or about $1,900.

That was up 3% year-on-year, the 49th consecutive month of growth.

Fixed wages, including base pay, also rose 3%, the highest in over 33 years.

Ministry officials say paychecks are growing steadily, while inflation is easing off.

JAPAN'S TRADING CARD GAMES SPARK GLOBAL ASSET HUNT

Another vibrant sector of Japan's pop culture is going global.

That's trading card games.

It was once a playground hobby. Now the cards have evolved into a serious obsession for players and collectors of all ages, including investors.

NHK World's Igarashi Jun has more.

00:14:38 話者 6

A packed tournament in Tokyo. 

People of all ages turn up armed with a deck of trading cards. They face off for intense one-on-one battles, unleashing the characters and their powers illustrated on the cards.

Unlike many video games, this offline experience brings the whole family together.

Kanno Koji is a long-time pokémon fan.

He used to compete in official tournaments, winning Japan's grand championship two times.

Now apparent, trading cards have become a bridge between Kanno and his children.

00:15:39 話者 7/Kanno Koji

My children always ask me, 'Dad, let's battle.' We all really enjoy playing.

00:15:52 話者 6

And they are not alone. The trading card market in Japan has exploded, topping 300 billion yen or 1.9 billion US dollars in fiscal year 2024.

Fujii Daisuke is in charge of a monthly magazine covering toys.

He says the boom was triggered by the social media craze of unboxing.

00:16:18 話者 4/Fujii Daisuke

People began posting YouTube videos to show them opening sealed packs of cards.

These videos went viral, and the popularity of trading cards, mainly pokémon, really took off.

00:16:31 話者 6

That popularity has driven up prices, where trading cards are increasingly viewed as valuable investment assets.

00:16:41 話者 6/Igarashi Jun

I'm in the Tokyo-Akihabara area, famous for anime, games and yes trading cards many stores here sell them and foreign tourists are eager to buy in.

00:16:54 話者 6

This tourist from Germany came away with a souvenir for his friends.

00:17:00 話者 17 

For me and a couple of friends at home it's fun trading collecting.

00:17:07話者 6

Some cards in this shop date back to the 1990s others include the latest releases.

Rare ones can sell for over two thousand dollars.

Many customers come from abroad on the trail of highly desired chase cards.

Fun for some, for others, fortunes are at stake.

In February, an extremely rare pokémon card called the pokémon Illustrator sold for almost sixteen and a half million dollars at auction in the US.

The latest export of Japan's pop culture is not without controversy.

Experts say soaring prices and the rise of scalpers are pricing some regular players out of the market.

00:17:58 話者 4

The pricing situation in the market is not very favorable for ordinary children playing card games.

We have to hope that everyone involved, users, fans and collectors, take steps to self-regulate the industry.

00:18:14 話者 6

Addressing these issues will be a challenge, but Japan remains the beating heart of trading card culture, and the enthusiasm from children and adults alike shows no sign of fading.

Igarashi Jun, NHK World.

MARKETS

00:18:30 話者 5

All right, let's have a look at the markets.

♪

And that's it for business news.

'DISASTER GENERATION' PASSING ON LESSONS OF DEVASTATION

00:19:10 話者 1

This week marks 15 years since the Great East Japan earthquake and nuclear accident.

Many students in the region today were not born when the disaster struck and have no memories of that day.

We spoke with one junior high school student in Fukushima Prefecture who wants to carry the message forward as a member of the disaster generation.

NHK World's Yabuki Hayato has the details.

00:19:39 話者 8/Yabuki Hayato

Five local junior high school storytellers appeared at this event.

They talked about the earthquake and resulting accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.

Matsuo Honoka started telling stories about the disaster last year.

Honoka was born in February 2011, three weeks before the earthquake. Of course, she has no memory of it. So why did she start sharing stories about the disaster? The catalyst was her classmate, Suzuki Aoi.

Aoi's home near the sea was severely damaged in the tsunami, and she began doing testimony work before Honoka. When she started as a storyteller, Honoka struggled with the question of whether it made sense for someone like herself to be talking about it.

00:21:18 話者 18/Matsuo Honoka

Someone who really experienced it can connect with listeners much more directly and clearly, but I hadn't and don't even remember it, so I thought talking about it would be difficult. 

Honoka decided to ask her parents what was happening around her when she was still a baby.

00:21:42 話者 4/Matsuo Shugo/Father

After the nuclear plant explosion happened, I was riding my bike looking for things like diapers and powdered milk.

It was cold, too, and there was no gasoline. Things were pretty tough.

00:21:54 話者 8

Honoka learned how hard it was for her parents at the time. She also came to realize how important it is to be prepared for disasters in everyday life. Now, as memories of that time fade,

Honoka continues to speak out as part of the disaster generation. She also began telling stories in English to visitors from abroad.

00:22:21 話者 18/Matsuo Honoka

We talk about not only the past, but also the future. We never know when or where the next disaster will happen. Can we make use of our experiences?

Just like generations before us, I feel young people born around March 11th also need to keep pushing forward. 

Beyond that, there's a hope that what we are doing is connected to disaster mitigation and prevention, and that we can help save lives when the next disaster strikes.

00:22:57 話者 8

Honoka is determined to pass on what she has learned from those who remember.

She plans to keep sharing those stories even after graduating from junior high school. Yabuki Hayako, NHK World.

JAPAN'S FUKUSHIMA AIMS TO ENTICE S.KOREAN TOURISTS

00:23:32 話者 1

Now Japan's Fukushima Prefecture is appealing directly to potential tourists in South Korea with a new video campaign highlighting its recovery from the March 2011 disaster. The video began showing on Monday at 12 locations in the capital Seoul and the second largest city of Busan. South Korea suspended imports of marine products from eight Japanese prefectures, including Fukushima following the 2011 accident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant triggered by the massive earthquake and tsunami. 

Japan's reconstruction agency made the video to underscore the prefecture's recovery. A Korean-language message says, Now is the time to visit Fukushima. Footage includes local sake and Tsurugajo Castle, a popular tourist spot in Aizu-Wakamatsu city.

The 30-second video will be shown in busy commercial districts through Sunday. Fukushima officials say the number of visitors from South Korea last year was only one-tenth of what it had been before the nuclear accident. Other moves could help bring more tourists. Charter flights will connect Fukushima Airport and the South Korean city of Chonju in July and October this year.

15 YEARS AFTER 3/11
SPECIAL COVERAGE LIVE
Mar. 11: NEW YORK 01:40
                  LONDON    05:40
                  TOKYO        14:40

NHK World will have a special program for the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan earthquake and nuclear power plant accident. 40 p.m. Japan time on Wednesday. We will bring you live coverage of a moment of silence observed at the exact time the earthquake hit... and reflect on the country's lasting grief and lessons learned from the disaster.

♬

WEATHER

And it is time for a check on the weather with our meteorologist, Jonathan Oh. 

So, Jonathan, we're riding a bit of a wave in terms of temperatures in Japan going through March. What can we expect this week?

00:25:53 話者 7/Jonathan Oh

Hello. We were talking about temperatures that are way above average at times last week, but then we see temperatures dropping off with overnight lows in places like Tokyo dropping down into the single digits. It looks like that we're going to be staying at that level as we go forward throughout the next few days. But we may be talking about some precipitation, not just rain, but maybe even some flurries as we have a couple of low pressure systems rolling on through. So the eastern side of Japan will be looking at some precipitation possibilities as we go throughout the next couple of days. Looking at rain and possibilities of flurries in Tokyo with a high of 9 on Tuesday. So it'll be a bit cooler before we see temperatures moving back to the low teens. But again, another possibility of some rain and even some flurries in Tokyo as we go through the day on Thursday.

Meanwhile, we're looking at some severe thunderstorm possibilities into the deep south of the United States. We saw over the weekend some storms up toward the north, but now the stationary front boundary down to the south bringing some unstable weather with some thunderstorms ahead of that. High temperatures with highs into the upper 20s as we go through Monday.

Hope you have a good day wherever you are.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

00:27:36 話者 1

And that is all for this edition of NHK Newsline. 

I'm Yamoto Miki in Tokyo. Thank you for joining us.

checked.