at 18:30 (JST), May 31

Asian View

"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20220531183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : south survey legitimate
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220531_03/

South Korea has pushed back against Tokyo's protest over a maritime survey Seoul conducted in Japan's exclusive economic zone near the Takeshima Islands.

South Korea controls the islands in the Sea of Japan. Japan claims them.

The South Korean Foreign Ministry said on Monday that it cannot accept a complaint from Japan because the survey is a legitimate activity conducted based on international and domestic laws.

Tokyo filed the protest after the Coast Guard found a South Korean research ship in Japan's EEZ near the islands on Sunday. Japan's Foreign Ministry said the vessel was spotted dropping what looked like a wire into the waters.

Funakoshi Takehiro, who heads the ministry's Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, protested against the ship's activity and called for an immediate cessation.

He said the maritime survey in Japan's EEZ violates a UN convention as it was carried out without Tokyo's prior consent.

The Japanese government maintains the Takeshima Islands are an inherent part of Japan's territory. It says South Korea is illegally occupying them.

Key words : rescue plane crash
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220530_29/

Nepali rescuers have recovered 20 bodies after a small plane with 22 people on board crashed Sunday in a mountainous area.

A Nepali Army spokesperson said on Monday morning troops spotted wreckage of the Twin Otter in Mustang District. It had taken off shortly before from the tourist town of Pokhara, headed for Jomsom in Mustang.
Tara Air, which operated the flight, said the passengers included two Germans, four Indians and 13 Nepalis.

Local aviation authorities say the plane lost contact with air control about 12 minutes after takeoff from Pokhara, 200 kilometers west of the capital, Kathmandu.

The weather in the area reportedly was bad at the time of the crash.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident. Plane crashes are a common occurrence in the Himalayan country, due to unpredictable weather and airstrips being located in mountains.

Key words : taiwan 30 chinese enter
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220531_05/

Taiwan's defense ministry says 30 Chinese military aircraft entered its air defense identification zone, or ADIZ, on Monday.

The ministry said five types of fighter jets, including the J-16 and the Su-35, and early warning and electronic warfare aircraft were among the planes that entered the southwestern part of the zone.

Officials said most of the aircraft flew over an area close to the Pratas Islands in the South China Sea, which are effectively controlled by Taiwan.

This was the second-largest number of Chinese military planes to enter the zone in a single day this year. The total number of entries so far this year is about 1.5 times the figure logged in the same period last year.

The Taiwanese defense ministry described what it calls "gray zone" threats by China in a report it released in November.

The report says China is trying to take control of Taiwan by wearing down its military capabilities and creating unrest among the people without conducting an armed attack. It suggests that sending aircraft into Taiwan's ADIZ is one of the tactics China is using to achieve that.

Key words : china pacific island lack
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220530_23/

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has hosted a meeting with his counterparts from Pacific island nations to promote cooperation with Beijing, but fell short of reaching a broad new regional security and trade agreement.

Prime ministers and foreign ministers from 10 Pacific island countries participated in the meeting held in Fiji on Monday. Wang is on a 10-day visit to Pacific island nations from Thursday. Fiji is the fourth leg of his tour.

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a written address to the meeting. In it, he said safeguarding peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific and promoting development and prosperity in countries across the region is a shared wish among people and the common responsibility of countries in the region.

He added China is ready to work with Pacific island countries to build a closer community.

Wang said in the meeting that Beijing will boost its support in a range of fields, including climate change, disaster prevention and poverty alleviation.

China was also seeking to establish a new cooperative framework focused on security and trade. But the agreement was put on hold due to a lack of thorough discussions.

At a news conference, Fiji's Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama said, "As always, we put consensus first among our countries throughout any discussion on new regional agreements."

Wang said China is a major developing nation and a responsible great power.

He added that the common development and prosperity of China and other developing countries would bring justice and harmony to the whole world.

Key words : climate pacific island
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220530_23/

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has hosted a meeting with his counterparts from Pacific island nations to promote cooperation with Beijing, but fell short of reaching a broad new regional security and trade agreement.

Prime ministers and foreign ministers from 10 Pacific island countries participated in the meeting held in Fiji on Monday. Wang is on a 10-day visit to Pacific island nations from Thursday. Fiji is the fourth leg of his tour.

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a written address to the meeting. In it, he said safeguarding peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific and promoting development and prosperity in countries across the region is a shared wish among people and the common responsibility of countries in the region.

He added China is ready to work with Pacific island countries to build a closer community.

Wang said in the meeting that Beijing will boost its support in a range of fields, including climate change, disaster prevention and poverty alleviation.

China was also seeking to establish a new cooperative framework focused on security and trade. But the agreement was put on hold due to a lack of thorough discussions.

At a news conference, Fiji's Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama said, "As always, we put consensus first among our countries throughout any discussion on new regional agreements."

Wang said China is a major developing nation and a responsible great power.

He added that the common development and prosperity of China and other developing countries would bring justice and harmony to the whole world.

Key words : shanghai residents
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220531_29/

Authorities in the Chinese city of Shanghai say they will ease strict outing restrictions from Wednesday, after a two-month COVID-19 lockdown.

The city's new daily infections often exceeded 20,000 in April. But on Monday, only about 30 new cases were reported.

Some 22 million residents, or about 90 percent of the population, will be allowed to go out at the start of Wednesday.

Outing restrictions will remain in some areas where new infections were confirmed recently.

Vice Mayor Zong Ming said at a news conference on Tuesday that infections have been curbed thanks to residents' efforts.

Zong stressed that it is time to fully restore normal productive activity and residents' livelihoods in the city.

She also said almost all subway and bus services will resume, and that residents will be allowed to use private cars.

But criticism of the prolonged lockdown continued on social media, including comments such as "Two months have been wasted" and "Lockdown could resume, so this is not a victory."

Key words : shopping mall
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220530_25/

New coronavirus cases in Shanghai dropped below 100 for the first time in more than 11 weeks on Sunday.

New infections had climbed to more than 20,000 on some days in April before starting to decline in China's commercial hub. The tally on Sunday stood at about 60.

The daily tally was last below 100 in the locked down city on March 12. That's more than two weeks before a strict lockdown was imposed to contain infections.

Authorities in Shanghai have announced plans to restore normal life and business activities before the end of June.

Swiftly resuming economic activities may be challenging in a city where residents have been banned from going outdoors freely for two months.

A senior city official who met reporters on Sunday unveiled plans to reduce taxes for qualified enterprises and provide subsidies to those who replace conventional cars with electric ones.

He announced that factories and businesses, including shopping malls, will be allowed to reopen from after June 1 on the condition that thorough anti-virus measures are taken.

The action plan to jump-start the economy includes spending of more than 45 billion dollars.

But residents in many parts of Shanghai are still banned from freely going outside. Authorities have said restrictions will be gradually eased in areas where new cases have not been confirmed for some time.

Uncertainty looms over when normal economic activity will resume.

Key words : north korea 100,000 new
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220530_22/

North Korea has reported more than 100,000 new cases of fever symptoms on a single day, following reports of an illness suspected to be COVID-19.

The ruling Workers' Party newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on Monday that over 100,700 new cases of fever have been confirmed during the 24-hour period through 6 p.m. on Sunday.

The tally of people with fever has risen to about 3.55 million since late April, accounting for one out of every seven people in North Korea.

The country has reported that the daily count of fever cases dropped below 90,000 after surging above 390,000 in mid-May.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended a meeting of the politburo of the Workers' Party convened on Sunday in which it was stressed that the situation has improved.

But it remains to be seen whether the country will succeed in quickly bringing the situation under control.

Key words : fugaku
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220530_28/

Japan's supercomputer Fugaku is on the top of the list in two categories of the world's high-performance computer rankings for the fifth straight time.

An international conference of experts announces the rankings every six months.

Fugaku, developed by the RIKEN research institute in the western city of Kobe, retained the top spot in the two categories -- performance in computational methods such as simulations, and in big data analytics.

Fugaku slipped to second place in the categories of artificial intelligence applications and computing speed for the first time since June 2020. A US supercomputer took the top position in the both categories.

Japanese researchers have used Fugaku to study the spread of droplets for coronavirus measures, as well as to forecast localized downpours and other weather events.

Matsuoka Satoshi, director of the RIKEN Center for Computational Science, said Fugaku has retained its position as one of the world's top supercomputers amid rapid global technological advances and intensifying competition.

He added that the researchers will continue to use Fugaku to solve many more issues facing society.

Key words : visitors tuna auction
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220531_11/

Tokyo's largest food market is resuming public viewings of its famed tuna auction from Thursday after a five-month hiatus.

The Toyosu market's special observation deck has been closed to visitors since January 11, when Japan faced a resurgence of coronavirus infections.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government, which manages the wholesale market, decided to reopen the deck following a recent decline in infections.

The daily number of viewers of the early morning auction will be limited to 27 people -- a quarter of the pre-pandemic level.

Prior applications are necessary and a lottery will be held if demand exceeds the daily limit.

June bookings are already closed. The Toyosu market website will accept applications for July from June 1 to 7.

at 18:30 (JST), May 30

Asian View

"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20220530183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : shanghai reopen semiconductor
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220530_04/

Authorities in Shanghai say restrictions on businesses will be removed from Wednesday, for the first time since the city was hit by a recent coronavirus outbreak.

The decision comes following two months of lockdown measures for the Chinese commercial hub.

The daily tally of new cases in Shanghai dropped to just over 100 on Saturday, from more than 20,000 at the peak.

Executive Vice Mayor Wu Qing told reporters on Sunday that the pandemic had a great impact on the economy and the city is facing an unprecedented predicament.

He announced that businesses will be allowed to reopen from June 1 on the condition that thorough anti-virus measures are taken.

So far only a limited number of companies have been allowed to resume operations, such as those in the semiconductor and auto industries.

The authorities earlier announced a plan to restore normal life and business activities from mid-June onward, while keeping coronavirus infections under control.

But residents in many parts of Shanghai are still banned from freely going outside.

Attention is now focused on whether companies can secure enough manpower to resume normal activities.

Key words : government protest radio
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220530_01/

The Japanese government says it has lodged a strong protest over a maritime survey conducted by a South Korean research ship in Japan's exclusive economic zone near the Takeshima Islands in the Sea of Japan.

South Korea controls the islands. Japan claims them.

The Japan Coast Guard confirmed that the ship, Hae Yang 2000, was operating in Japan's EEZ northeast of the islands from Saturday to Sunday, trailing what looked like a cable in the water.

The Coast Guard determined that the ship was highly likely engaged in a maritime survey. On Sunday, it demanded by radio that the ship halt the activity, but said the ship did not reply.

Japan's Foreign Ministry said South Korean officials admitted that the ship had been conducting a survey.

Funakoshi Takehiro, who heads the ministry's Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, lodged a strong protest against the ship's activity, and called for an immediate cessation.

He stressed that the maritime survey in Japan's EEZ violates a UN convention as it was carried out without Tokyo's prior consent.

The Japanese government maintains the Takeshima Islands are an inherent part of Japan's territory. It says South Korea is illegally occupying them.

Key words : un human rights education
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220529_06/

The UN human rights chief has urged China to review its Uyghur policies following her visit to the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet held an online news conference from the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou on Saturday, the final day of her six-day China visit.

Bachelet said she was in Xinjiang for two days and inspected a prison and a facility which China says was used for vocational education and training. Beijing has said such training is part of measures to prevent the spread of terrorism.

Bachelet said she raised questions and concerns about the application of counter-terrorism measures and their impact on the rights of Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim minorities.

She said she encouraged the Chinese government to review all counter-terrorism and de-radicalization policies to ensure they fully comply with international human rights standards and that they are not applied in an arbitrary and discriminatory way.

She also spoke of Uyghur families living abroad who have lost contact with their loved ones. She said she appealed to the authorities to prioritize measures to provide information to such families.

Bachelet stressed that her visit was not an investigation, suggesting it was difficult to grasp the full humanitarian situation of the Uyghur people.

She said the Chinese government agreed with her agency to establish a working group to facilitate substantive exchanges and cooperation.

She also referred to the situation in Hong Kong, saying the arrests of lawyers, activists, journalists and others under the National Security Law are deeply worrying.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu told reporters in Beijing that Bachelet was given a comprehensive introduction to China's measures on ethnicity and religion, and counter-terrorism.

Ma said that with the joint efforts of both sides, her visit had achieved "positive concrete results."

He also said that certain Western countries, out of ulterior motives, went to great lengths to disrupt and undercut the High Commissioner's visit, but their plot didn't succeed.

Ma was apparently referring to US State Department spokesperson Ned Price, who had expressed concern about Bachelet's visit.

Key words : relatives of
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220530_02/

The relatives of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea decades ago, have urged Japan's government to help all remaining abductees return home as soon as possible. They also demanded Pyongyang make an early decision to realize the return of their loved ones.

The relatives adopted a resolution listing these requests at a rally on Sunday. Prime Minister Kishida Fumio attended the gathering of roughly 800 people.

Yokota Takuya, a younger brother of abductee Yokota Megumi, gave a speech. He heads a group of relatives of Japanese abductees.

Yokota said the group would not object to Japan offering assistance to help North Korea address an ongoing coronavirus outbreak, if Pyongyang promises to return all remaining abductees to Japan immediately.

Yokota said the relatives of some abductees are advanced in age, and are anxiously awaiting the return of their loved ones.

He emphasized that Japan is responsible for resolving the abduction issue, not the United States or the international community.

Prime Minister Kishida stressd that his Cabinet places top priority on the issue. He explained that during his summit with the US president last week, Joe Biden expressed his support for an immediate resolution to the matter.

Kishida said he will lead his government in doing everything it can to realize the return of all remaining abductees at the earliest date possible.

He repeated his determination to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un without any preconditions.

The Japanese government says at least 17 citizens were abducted by North Korean agents in the 1970s and 80s. Five returned in 2002, but the other 12 remain unaccounted for.

Key words : sri lankan
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_14/

A Sri Lankan who is suing Japan over the death of her sister in an immigration detention facility arrived at Narita airport near Tokyo ahead of a trial to start June 8.

Wishma Sandamali died March 6, 2021 in the detention facility in Nagoya, while being held for overstaying her visa. Wishma, 33, had complained of illness.

The Immigration Services Agency investigated and concluded that the facility lacked an appropriate system to provide medical care.

Wishma's relatives found the conclusion unsatisfactory and demanded access to all video footage of her at the facility.

In March this year, the relatives filed a suit against the Japanese government, seeking about 1.3 million dollars in damages.

Wayomi, Wishma's younger sister, told reporters she wants the court to show all the video of her late sister and clarify what happened and who was responsible for the death.

Another younger sister, Poornima, who has been staying in Japan, said that she is glad to have reunited with Wayomi, and that they will work together for the trial.

Key words : taiwan conducted
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_09/

Taiwan has conducted missile drills in its eastern waters, where China is escalating its military activities.

Taiwan's navy says it conducted the drills over several days this month at a missile base in the southern county of Pingtung, and in the Pacific Ocean off eastern Taiwan.

It says the missiles were launched from the ground, ships and aircraft against hypothetical enemy vessels, and were about 98 percent accurate. It also says a drill to fire a Hsiung Feng II, an anti-ship missile developed by Taiwan, was held for the first time using a new patrol vessel.

The Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning was deployed off Taiwan's east this month. More than 300 helicopter departures and landings from the carrier were confirmed.

Chinese fighter jets and bombers also frequently cross the area.

Key words : cannes hayakawa
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220529_09/

Japanese director Hayakawa Chie's film PLAN 75 has received a Special Mention by the jury for the Camera d'Or, an award for debut feature films, at the Cannes Film Festival.

The movie is set in Japan in the near future, when a government program encourages people aged 75 or older to be voluntarily euthanized as a remedy to the rapidly aging society.

The main character, an elderly woman, faces a choice of life or death and ponders the meaning of life.

The film was in the "Un Certain Regard" or "a certain glance" section, which presents works with non-traditional stories.

At the festival, South Korean actor Song Kang-ho received the Best Actor Award for his role in "Broker."

The movie by Japanese director Koreeda Hirokazu depicts the journey of a group of people brought together by a "baby box," where infants who cannot be cared for can be left anonymously.

The top award, the Palme d'Or, went to Swedish director Ruben Ostlund's class warfare comedy "Triangle of Sadness."

at 18:00 (JST), May 29

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20220529180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : security summit
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220529_14/

Preparations are underway for Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio to give a keynote speech at an Asia security summit to be held in Singapore next month.

Kishida would be the first Japanese prime minister in eight years to attend the Shangri-La Dialogue, which brings together defense and military leaders to discuss Asia-Pacific security issues.

He is expected to reiterate that unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force must not be tolerated anywhere in the world.

He is also likely to brief on a plan for bolstering Japan's defense capabilities, and to urge participants to join hands to achieve a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Kishida's diplomacy is in full swing. Last week, he met with visiting US President Joe Biden and hosted a summit of the Quad framework, which is made up of Japan, the United States, Australia and India.

He also met with leaders of some Southeast Asian countries to discuss bilateral and international agendas.

Key words : zelenskyy video difficult
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220529_11/

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has spoken about the difficult situation in Donbas and the Kharkiv region in the east.

Zelenskyy said in a newly released video on Saturday that the Russians are concentrating their offensive efforts on Severodonetsk and several other cities.

Severodonetsk is said to be Ukraine's last stronghold in the Luhansk region.

The president said that the situation is indescribably difficult although the defense is holding on.

He also noted that Russian shelling near a kindergarten in Mykolaiv on Saturday killed one person and wounded seven others.

Zelenskyy underscored that Ukraine will definitely regain everything that belongs to it, adding it is only a matter of time and that it is doing everything it can.

He reiterated that a lot depends on the partners providing Ukraine with what is necessary to defend its freedom.

Key words : russian troop advancing
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_19/

The Russian military has been stepping up its offensive to take full control of the Luhansk region in eastern Ukraine.

Russian troops are believed to have already seized 95 percent of the region. They are advancing to encircle the city of Severodonetsk, seen as Ukraine's last stronghold in the region.

Luhansk Governor Serhiy Haidai went on social media on Saturday to stress that Ukrainian forces were pushing Russian troops back in some areas.

He said Russia had carried out intense shelling at point-blank range, and there had been street battles in some parts of the region.

The governor of the neighboring Donetsk region, Pavlo Kyrylenko, said on social media that Russian attacks killed five civilians and wounded four on Friday.

Russia's defense ministry announced on Saturday that its forces had taken full control of Lyman in Donetsk.

Lyman is a strategically important railway hub. Major cities in the Donetsk region, such as Kramatorsk and Slovyansk, are located to the south.

Britain's defense ministry said on Saturday that Russian forces had likely captured most of Lyman as of Friday.

It said Russia's main effort likely remains 40 kilometers to the east, around Severodonetsk. It said Russian units will likely prioritize crossing the Siverskyi Donets River. It assessed that a bridgehead near Lyman would give Russia an advantage in its offensive in eastern Ukraine.

The ministry also said Ukrainian forces continue to carry out a well-organized defense of the sector, and to inflict heavy casualties on Russia.

Meanwhile, Russia's defense ministry announced on Saturday that it had successfully test-fired a hypersonic Zircon cruise missile from the Barents Sea.

Some observers see this as an attempt to put pressure on Sweden and Finland, which have applied to join the NATO military alliance.

Key words : russian ship entered
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220529_04/

A Ukrainian official is accusing Russia of trying to loot metal from the southeastern port city of Mariupol.

A Russian ship entered the port of Mariupol on Saturday for the first time since Russia's forces took control of the strategic city earlier this month.

Russia's state-run Tass news agency quoted a spokesperson for the port as saying the vessel would load about 2,700 tons of metal before traveling 160 kilometers east to the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don.

Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights Lyudmyla Denisova wrote on social media that looting in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine continues. She accused Russia of trying to export metal products from Mariupol, following the theft of Ukrainian grain.

Key words : putin warning military aid
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220529_07/

Russian President Vladimir Putin is warning that more military aid for Ukraine would further destabilize the situation and aggravate the humanitarian crisis.

Putin talked by telephone with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Saturday.

The Kremlin says Putin warned about the dangers of what it described as pumping up Ukraine with Western weapons.

Macron and Scholz urged Putin to lift the blockade of Ukrainian ports on the Black Sea. Putin reportedly said that Moscow is ready to help find options for unhampered exports of grain, including exports of Ukrainian grain from the Black Sea ports.

Putin insisted that sanctions against Russia should be lifted to prevent a global food crisis.

Russian forces are trying to besiege Severodonetsk, which is seen as Ukraine's last stronghold in the Luhansk region.

Russia's defense ministry claimed on Saturday that its military is in full control of Lyman, a strategic railway hub in the neighboring Donetsk region. It's about 40 kilometers west of Severodonetsk.

Britain's defense ministry says Russian forces could use Lyman as a foothold to make their way toward Severodonetsk.

Key words : putin signed a bill age limit
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220529_08/

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a bill to scrap age limits for military personnel serving on a contract basis on Saturday.

There had been an upper age limit of 40 for Russians and 30 for foreign nationals to enter into contracts with the military. It is a separate system from a conscription.

Deputy Minister of Defense explained that they are thinking of allowing new contractors of up to about 50 years old to sign up.

The number of Russian military casualties is believed to be increasing as the war in Ukraine becomes a prolonged conflict.

The Defense Ministry said on March 25 that 1,351 soldiers had been killed fighting in Ukraine. It has not released any new numbers since.

UK Ministry of Defense said on May 23 that "Russia has likely suffered a similar death toll to that experienced by the Soviet Union during its nine-year war in Afghanistan," which is about 15,000.

Key words : intensive search
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220529_12/

A three-day intensive search is underway for 12 people who remain missing following the sinking of a tour boat off the coast of Hokkaido, northern Japan, more than a month ago.

The operation began on Sunday, with vessels and aircraft from the Coast Guard and the Self-Defense Forces deployed.

The "KAZU I" carrying 26 people sank off the Shiretoko Peninsula on April 23.

Fourteen passengers have been confirmed dead. No missing persons have been discovered since April 28.

This operation is covering wider areas from the Shiretoko Peninsula to Kunashiri Island. That is one of the four Russian-controlled islands which Japan claims as an inherent part of its territory.

The Coast Guard is deploying six patrol ships near Kunashiri, which is double the highest number of vessels it has mobilized since the accident.

Police are combing the coastline of the peninsula, and local tour boat and fishing vessels are due to join the search if weather permits.

The "KAZU I" has been salvaged to help determine the cause of the accident.

The Coast Guard is questioning the president of the boat's operator on a voluntary basis.

Key words : cannes hayakawa
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220529_09/

Japanese director Hayakawa Chie's film PLAN 75 has received a Special Mention by the jury for the Camera d'Or, an award for debut feature films, at the Cannes Film Festival.

The movie is set in Japan in the near future, when a government program encourages people aged 75 or older to be voluntarily euthanized as a remedy to the rapidly aging society.

The main character, an elderly woman, faces a choice of life or death and ponders the meaning of life.

The film was in the "Un Certain Regard" or "a certain glance" section, which presents works with non-traditional stories.

At the festival, South Korean actor Song Kang-ho received the Best Actor Award for his role in "Broker."

The movie by Japanese director Koreeda Hirokazu depicts the journey of a group of people brought together by a "baby box," where infants who cannot be cared for can be left anonymously.

The top award, the Palme d'Or, went to Swedish director Ruben Ostlund's class warfare comedy "Triangle of Sadness."

Key words : spain real madrid
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220529_10/

Spain's Real Madrid has beaten England's Liverpool 1-0 to win the European Champions League for a record 14th time.

The tournament decides the top European soccer club. The final match took place on Saturday in Saint-Denis, near Paris.

Brazilian attacker Vinicius Junior took the advantage of one of the few chances and scored the first and only goal of the game in the 59th minute. Liverpool controlled the game and attempted 23 shots. But Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois did not give up a goal with an outstanding performance.

The final was relocated to France from St. Petersburg, Russia, following the invasion of Ukraine.

at 18:00 (JST), May 28

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20220528180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : russian military 90 percent russian control
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_N01/

Russian military forces are gaining ground in eastern Ukraine. They have been targeting ports and railroads and other key infrastructure. And they have now seized a strategic railway hub.

Ukrainian officials confirmed that the city of Lyman is under Russian control. It is the second midsize city in the Donbas region to change hands this week.

Ukrainian forces say they are engaged in a "fierce defense" of a third city. They released footage of what they say is a strike on Russian troops outside of Severodonetsk. The city is Ukraine's last stronghold in the region.

The governor says Russians have encircled two-thirds of the city and destroyed 90 percent of the buildings. He says the shelling continues. Authorities believe that about 15,000 people have fled their homes to seek shelter.

One woman at an underground shelter said many people in there have a fever, and there's not much medicine. Everyone is sick.

Authorities at the UN say more and more civilians are being caught in the fighting. They say at least 4,000 of them have died but that the true number is likely much higher.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy is looking for ways to stop the carnage. He has once again offered to sit down for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Zelenskyy said there are things to discuss with the Russian leader. He said he is not saying that he or his people have a desire to talk to him. He emphasized that there is not much eagerness, but they have to face the realities in which they live.

Peace talks have been stalled for weeks. Putin has put the blame on Ukrainian leaders. He says they are sabotaging the negotiating process.

Key words : zelenskyy bali
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_10/

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he will attend a Group of 20 summit scheduled for November in Bali, Indonesia. He says he will attend virtually, if the Russian invasion continues.

Zelenskyy made the remark on Friday in an online speech hosted by an Indonesian think tank. Indonesia holds the rotating G20 presidency this year.

He thanked Indonesian President Joko Widodo for inviting him to the summit. He added he hopes by the autumn, the world will have "solved all these big problems."

Zelenskyy called for excluding Russia from the meeting. He said he believes that at the summit there will be only friendly states and partner states, and no occupiers.

The president also pointed out that food and energy shortages due to the Russian aggression could get even worse. He asked G20 members to understand the situation and find solutions.

Last month, the Indonesian leader said Russian President Vladimir Putin told him he plans to join the G20 summit. The Russian ambassador to Indonesia says Putin plans to attend in person.

Key words : iran announced
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_06/

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced on Friday that it had seized two Greek oil tankers in the Persian Gulf.

Iranian state media suggests the move was in retaliation for an earlier seizure by Greece of an Iranian tanker in the Mediterranean Sea.

The media said in that incident, Greek authorities worked with the US government to impound the vessel. The Iranian foreign ministry condemned the United States and Greece.

The Iranian report quoted an expert as saying the seizure of the Greek ships was a message to Western countries that they would pay a price if they seize Iranian oil or assets. The US in the past has confiscated Iranian oil cargo, citing sanctions violations.

A statement by Greece's foreign ministry said Iran's actions are "tantamount to piracy." It called for the immediate release of the ships and their crews.

Key words : foreign minister north negotiating table
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_11/

The foreign ministers of Japan, the United States and South Korea have urged North Korea to stop acting in a way that endangers peace and security and return to the negotiating table.

In a joint statement, the ministers expressed deep concern about North Korea's launches on May 25 of an intercontinental ballistic missile and shorter-range ballistic missiles.

They noted that the North has significantly increased the pace and scale of its ballistic missile launches since September 2021.

The ministers said each of these launches violated multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions and posed a grave threat to the region and the international community.

They urged Pyongyang to immediately cease actions that destabilize the region and endanger the peace and security of all nations.

They stressed that a path to serious and sustained dialogue remains open.

They also expressed their deep concern at "the grave hardship" that the people of North Korea are experiencing, including due to COVID-19. They said they hope the country will respond positively to international offers of assistance.

The ministers added that North Korea's missile launches highlight the importance of further strengthening the Japan-US and US-South Korea alliances to ensure peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. They also vowed to advance trilateral security cooperation.

Key words : north parade
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_05/

North Korea's state-run television has broadcast a documentary about a military parade held last month.

Pyongyang apparently aims to show that it was a success, despite some observers saying such events may have led to a surge in suspected coronavirus cases.

Korean Central Television aired the two-hour documentary on Friday.

The parade was staged at a square in Pyongyang on April 25. It is thought about 20,000 personnel took part.

More than 250 weapons and other pieces of equipment were on display, including the Hwasong-17, which North Korea describes as a new type of intercontinental ballistic missile.

The film says leader Kim Jong Un oversaw preparations and instructed organizers to make it the best parade ever.

Kim was seen using binoculars to watch a rehearsal, and giving instructions to senior officials.

The Tokyo-based Radiopress news agency, which analyzes North Korea's reports, says it is rare for North Korea to release footage of a rehearsal for a military parade.

Key words : tokyo subway station
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_02/

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has designated more than 100 subway stations as shelters in the event of a ballistic missile strike.

The unprecedented step comes amid a flurry of North Korean test launches this year.

The shelters comprise 105 Toei Subway and Tokyo Metro stations, plus four underground passages in the Shinjuku and Ueno districts.

Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko told reporters on Friday that the move is part of efforts to protect people's lives.

In an apparent reference to North Korea, she said authorities in the capital need to be pragmatic in light of Japan's unpredictable neighbor.

Officials say they plan to designate more subway stations as evacuation facilities.

Key words : taiwan conducted missile drill
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_09/

Taiwan has conducted missile drills in its eastern waters, where China is escalating its military activities.

Taiwan's navy says it conducted the drills over several days this month at a missile base in the southern county of Pingtung, and in the Pacific Ocean off eastern Taiwan.

It says the missiles were launched from the ground, ships and aircraft against hypothetical enemy vessels, and were about 98 percent accurate. It also says a drill to fire a Hsiung Feng II, an anti-ship missile developed by Taiwan, was held for the first time using a new patrol vessel.

The Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning was deployed off Taiwan's east this month. More than 300 helicopter departures and landings from the carrier were confirmed.

Chinese fighter jets and bombers also frequently cross the area.

Key words : shigenobu free
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_15/

Shigenobu Fusako, the former head of the now-disbanded Japanese Red Army militant group, was released from prison on Saturday.

The JRA was founded in 1971 in Lebanon by Shigenobu and others as a spin-off of the Red Army Faction.

The group advocated revolution through terrorism. It was most active in 1970s, and was involved in a series of terrorist attacks in collaboration with armed Palestinian groups.

JRA members armed with automatic rifles opened fire at an airport in Israel in 1972, killing and wounding about 100 people.

The group hijacked a passenger plane in 1977 and forced it to land in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The hijackers demanded that Japan release group members held in prison.

The government freed the members in what it called an extralegal response. This drew harsh international criticism that the government had yielded to terrorism.

Shigenobu was arrested in 2000 after covertly returning to Japan and staying hidden in Osaka.

In 2001, she declared that the JRA had been disbanded.

Police continue to seek the whereabouts of seven JRA members still at large.

Key words : texas killed mental health
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220528_N03/

Authorities in Uvalde, Texas, have revealed more details about the mass shooting at an elementary school that claimed the lives of 19 students and two teachers.

They say some of the young victims called 9-1-1 during the attack to beg for help.

They're also raising more questions over the police response to the attack, in which the 18-year-old shooter entered the school freely and opened fire with an assault rifle.

A law enforcement official says 19 officers stood in a hallway for nearly for an hour before a tactical team broke into the classroom and killed the shooter on the spot.

The Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, Steven McCraw, said the decision to wait was wrong and inexcusable.

McCraw said based on his information, he believes the officers should have entered the room as soon as possible.

He said the officers thought the gunman had barricaded himself in the room, and that the students were not at risk.

The attack has reignited the heated debate over gun ownership in the United States.

Lawmakers in Texas passed a measure last year that loosened restrictions on guns.

At a news conference, Governor Greg Abbot rejected the idea that it had anything to do with the shooting. Instead he pinned the blame on mental health issues.

But investigators say the gunman had no history of mental illness or criminal record. They're still trying to establish a motive.

at 18:30 (JST), May 27

Asian View

"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20220527183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : wang tour eight
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220527_22/

The White House says Fiji will join the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity, or IPEF -- a US-led new initiative apparently aimed at competing with China.

US President Joe Biden announced the start of talks to launch the IPEF during his visit to Tokyo on Monday. Thirteen countries including Japan, India, South Korea and Southeast Asian nations have said they'll join.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said in a statement on Thursday that Fiji will be the 14th nation to take part and the first in the Pacific Islands to do so.

The statement says, "IPEF now reflects the full regional diversity of the Indo-Pacific."

China is stepping up moves to expand its influence among the Pacific Islands.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi began an eight-nation tour of the region on Thursday. His stops include Fiji.

The latest US announcement apparently underscores an intensifying tug-of-war with China to win over the Pacific Islands.

Key words : Solomon Islands continue
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220526_31/

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has visited the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific, and said China will continue to provide security assistance to the nation.

Wang arrived in the Solomon Islands on Thursday, to kick off his 10-day tour of Pacific island nations and Timor-Leste.

His visit to the Solomons follows the signing last month of a security pact between China and the nation.

According to China's foreign ministry, Wang said during his talks with the Solomons' Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele that China firmly supports the nation's efforts to defend its sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.

Manele reportedly said Chinese aid has been playing an important role in his country's economic development and efforts to fight the coronavirus pandemic.

Wang's visit is widely seen as part of China's efforts to expand its influence in the region, to counter a US-led initiative in the Indo-Pacific region.

Also on Thursday, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong visited Fiji and expressed Australia's renewed policy to increase assistance to Pacific island nations.

The visit came just days after Australia's new prime minister Anthony Albanese took office, and appears to reflect the country's resolve to step up efforts to counter China's growing influence in the region.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang is due to also visit Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste in his 10-day trip until June 4.

Key words : ended package tour
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220527_03/

Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has said the country will resume allowing inbound tourism which had been suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Kishida said on Thursday that Japan will reopen its borders to foreign tourists, starting on June 10. Only visitors on escorted package tours will be allowed to enter for the time being, to prevent the spread of the virus.

The government will double its current cap on the number of arrivals from overseas to 20,000 per day from June 1. The figure will include foreign sightseers.

Japan will let in tourists from 98 countries and territories that are classified as having the lowest coronavirus positivity rates. They will include the United States, South Korea and China.

Visitors from the lowest-risk group will be exempt from virus testing and self-quarantine even if they have not been vaccinated against COVID-19.

Reopening the border to foreign sightseers is expected to rejuvenate the tourism industry and local economies that have been hit hard by the pandemic.

However, analysts say it will take time for Japan's inbound tourism to return to its pre-pandemic levels, when foreign visitors topped 30 million per year.

Attention is focused on whether the country will be able to let in more foreign tourists while keeping the domestic infection situation under control.

Key words : philippines president millimeter
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220527_02/

The Philippines' president-elect says his administration will hold talks with Beijing over their territorial disputes in the South China Sea based on a 2016 arbitration tribunal decision. The ruling dismissed China's claims to almost all of the waters.

Ferdinand Marcos Jr. spoke in an online video uploaded on Thursday, discussing his foreign policy for the first time since winning the presidential election earlier this month. He will officially assume the presidency on June 30.

Regarding the South China Sea, Marcos said he will not "allow a single millimeter" of the Philippines' "maritime coastal rights to be trampled upon." He pledged to "talk to China consistently with a firm voice."

Marcos described the 2016 decision by an arbitration tribunal in The Hague as a "very important" one in his country's favor. He said his administration will use the ruling to continue to assert the Philippines' "territorial rights."

His latest comments sharply contrast with his remark in the run-up to the presidential election that the ruling was "not effective."

The Philippines filed the case at the tribunal in 2013. Its victory was based on the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, but outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte did not accept the ruling.

Vietnam, Malaysia and others also have their own claims in the South China Sea.

Key words : fled ukrainian 90-day visa
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20220516161743567/

More than 800 people have fled from Ukraine to Japan. Different levels of government are helping them with housing and living costs. But some evacuees don't have a personal connection to Japan and can't speak the language. In this report, we'll introduce you to a family that's stepping up to help.

at 18:30 (JST), May 26

Asian View

"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20220526183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : north three ballistic 300
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220525_18/

Japan's defense minister says North Korea launched at least two ballistic missiles on Wednesday morning. Kishi Nobuo also says the North may have fired a third missile.

Kishi told reporters on Wednesday morning that the first missile was launched just before 6 a.m. He said it flew about 300 kilometers and reached a maximum altitude of 550 kilometers.

The minister indicated that the second missile flew for about 750 kilometers on an "irregular trajectory." He noted that it reached an altitude of about 50 kilometers.

Kishi said both were ballistic missiles. He added that the defense ministry is trying to determine whether more missiles were launched by the North.

The Japanese government says the two missiles that were confirmed to have been launched fell outside Japan's exclusive economic zone.

The South Korean military says the North fired three ballistic missiles toward the east, one after another, starting at around 6 a.m.

Kishi said the North has fired 16 missiles this year. Some of them were cruise missiles. He said the launches are threatening peace and stability in the region and around the world. Kishi revealed that Japan has already protested against the latest launches, as they violate resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council. He stressed that Japan cannot tolerate such provocations.

North Korea's latest launches occurred one day after the summit of the Quad framework. The meeting was hosted by Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio.

Kisida and the leaders of the US, Australia and India condemned North Korea's missile development. They said it is leading to uncertainty in the region.

Key words : senior south
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220525_36/

A senior South Korean presidential official says North Korea has been testing a nuclear detonation device apparently in preparation for a nuclear test.

Kim Tae-hyo, first deputy director of the presidential National Security Office, told reporters on Wednesday the possibility of a nuclear test in the next day or two is low, but there is certainly a possibility after that.

Kim revealed that operational tests of a nuclear triggering device have been detected at a location away from nuclear test site Punggye-ri, and the tests have been carried out multiple times over the past several weeks.

He added that North Korean authorities are near the final preparation stage for a nuclear test of a scale and quality they want.

Last week, South Korea's National Intelligence Service told a parliamentary committee the North has completed preparations for its seventh nuclear test, and is now gauging its timing.

Key words : mitsubishi 70 percent
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220526_16/

An independent panel investigating a data-falsification scandal at Japan's Mitsubishi Electric has found more cases. About 70 percent of the equipment maker's domestic production bases were involved in quality control fraud.

The panel of outside experts said in its latest report on Wednesday that it found 101 additional cases at 15 manufacturing facilities.

In most of the newly discovered cases, employees omitted some of the quality control tests requested by clients or falsified data.

One factory in Hyogo Prefecture, western Japan, did not conduct some of the vibration tests required for train cars for at least 50 years and submitted falsified data to clients.

At another factory in Aichi, central Japan, a voltage test was not conducted for elevator components exported to the United States before December 2018.

The panel says the employees engaged in the misconduct to meet delivery deadlines or cut costs.

Kimeda Hiroshi, Chair of Investigative Committee, said company executives bear heavy responsibility for failing to create a corporate culture that allows mid-level managers to enforce standards.

This is the third report by the panel. Two previous ones found 47 cases of data falsification at six factories.
The panel will continue its probe to establish the full scope of the scandal.

Key words : xi defended
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220525_39/

Chinese President Xi Jinping has defended the country's human rights record, as a senior UN official visits China to inspect the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

China's foreign ministry says Xi met online with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Wednesday. Bachelet was in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou.

Xi said China has taken a path of human rights development in line with its national reality, and the Chinese people's human rights are guaranteed more than ever.

He also said countries should not politicize human rights issues or use them as a pretext to interfere in other nations' internal affairs.

His remarks were apparently aimed at Western and other countries that express concern about the human rights situation in Xinjiang.

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights said on Twitter that the meeting was valuable to discuss directly about human rights issues and concerns.

Bachelet has been in China since Monday. But there has been no information that she has entered Xinjiang. She is believed to have met with senior Chinese officials.

The United States has expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the inspection. A US State Department spokesperson said Washington has "no expectation" that China "will grant the necessary access required to conduct a complete, unmanipulated assessment."

Key words : russia reacted
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220526_05/

Russia's ambassador to Japan has reacted sharply to President Vladimir Putin not being invited to the annual ceremony marking the US atomic bombing of Hiroshima.

Mikhail Galuzin made the protest on Wednesday on the Twitter account of the Russian Embassy in Japan.

Hiroshima City had planned to invite Putin to the August 6 ceremony as it did in the past.

But after consulting with the central government, the city decided not to do so, explaining that the invitation could cause misunderstanding over Japan's stance on Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Galuzin said, "Such an ignoble action is yet another proof that the leaders of the self-proclaimed anti-nuclear movement once again turned their backs on the memory of tens of thousands of their fellow citizens who became innocent victims of the USA's barbaric atomic bombing."

The ambassador also wrote in Russian on the Telegram messaging app, "The numerous bogus insinuations about the alleged possibility of Russia using nuclear weapons in Ukraine are being dishonestly spread."

Galuzin said Russia is seriously working toward nuclear nonproliferation.

He added, "Russia is not a rhetorical but a real leader promoting nuclear non-proliferation and the eventual elimination of nuclear weapons."

Key words : ukrainian student
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220526_02/

NHK has learned that the Japanese government will launch a new scholarship program for Ukrainian students who have evacuated to Japan following Russia's invasion of their country.

The government plans to accept applications for around 100 people and start the program as early as July.

The education ministry says Ukrainian students who have entered Japan since the invasion in February as well as those planning to study in Japan will be eligible. Recommendations by universities or embassies will also be needed.

The scholarship will include a monthly payment of 117,000 yen, or about 920 dollars, and travel expenses for those planning to come to Japan.

The government and universities will also cover enrollment fees and tuitions. The grant will be for one year.

Applicants will be called for interviews. They may be granted a scholarship even if they don't fully meet requirements, such as passing Japanese-language proficiency tests.

The total cost is estimated at roughly 1.18 million dollars.

The education ministry says 106 students and researchers had arrived in Japan as of May 11. Universities and other institutions have already begun providing them with support for tuition and living expenses.

Key words : samsung
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220525_07/

South Korea's Samsung group plans to invest about 356 billion dollars in chips, biopharmaceuticals, and artificial intelligence, in the next five years.

The investment will be 36 percent more than the amount the group had invested in the last five years.

The country's largest conglomerate said on Tuesday that it will allocate 80 percent of the new investment to South Korea, and create 80,000 jobs mainly for young people.

Samsung stresses that it will take the initiative to make the country a chip superpower, and contribute to its economic development.

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol recently visited a Samsung Electronics factory together with US President Joe Biden, who was on a visit to South Korea.

The leaders agreed in their summit talks to work to strengthen supply chains of semiconductors and other products.

Hyundai Motor also announced a plan on Tuesday to invest about 50 billion dollars by 2025.

South Korean media says these moves are aimed at demonstrating a willingness to cooperate with the Yoon administration.

at 18:30 (JST), May 25

Asian View

"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20220525183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : north launched three
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220525_15/

The South Korean military says North Korea launched three ballistic missiles in succession on Wednesday morning. The move came after US President Joe Biden concluded his visit to Seoul and Tokyo to strengthen trilateral ties.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the three missiles were fired at 6 a.m., 6:37 a.m. and 6:42 a.m. from the Sunan area near Pyongyang toward the Sea of Japan.

It says it is on heightened alert and is in close contact with US forces. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has ordered a meeting of the National Security Council to be convened.

North Korea has frequently repeated launces of projectiles this year. This month alone, it launched a ballistic missile from near Sunan on May 4 and an apparent short-range ballistic missile from a submarine off the coast of the eastern city of Sinpho on May 7. It also fired three short-range ballistic missiles from near Sunan on May 12.

The latest launches come a day after Biden wrapped up his trip to Asia.

He first held talks with South Korea's new president in Seoul for the first time on Saturday. Biden affirmed America's "extended deterrence" commitment to South Korea through various means including nuclear weapons. The two leaders also agreed to discuss scaling up their joint military drills, which the North regards as a symbol of "hostile forces."

Biden then met with Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio in Tokyo on Monday. They shared serious concerns about North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, and confirmed closer cooperation.

North Korea is currently trying to tackle what is believed to be a coronavirus outbreak by taking measures including lockdowns. It apparently aims to show that despite this situation, its nuclear and missile development remains unaffected.

Key words : defense minister outside
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220525_18/

Japan's defense minister says North Korea launched at least two ballistic missiles on Wednesday morning. Kishi Nobuo also says the North may have fired a third missile.

Kishi told reporters on Wednesday morning that the first missile was launched just before 6 a.m. He said it flew about 300 kilometers and reached a maximum altitude of 550 kilometers.

The minister indicated that the second missile flew for about 750 kilometers on an "irregular trajectory." He noted that it reached an altitude of about 50 kilometers.

Kishi said both were ballistic missiles. He added that the defense ministry is trying to determine whether more missiles were launched by the North.

The Japanese government says the two missiles that were confirmed to have been launched fell outside Japan's exclusive economic zone.

The South Korean military says the North fired three ballistic missiles toward the east, one after another, starting at around 6 a.m.

Kishi said the North has fired 16 missiles this year. Some of them were cruise missiles. He said the launches are threatening peace and stability in the region and around the world. Kishi revealed that Japan has already protested against the latest launches, as they violate resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council. He stressed that Japan cannot tolerate such provocations.

North Korea's latest launches occurred one day after the summit of the Quad framework. The meeting was hosted by Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio.

Kisida and the leaders of the US, Australia and India condemned North Korea's missile development. They said it is leading to uncertainty in the region.

Key words : Biden home
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220525_N02/

US President Joe Biden headed home on Tuesday from a tour meant to fulfill his vision of "anchoring" the US in the Indo-Pacific. He spent much of his time in Seoul and Tokyo discussing how to shore up security and improve trade.

Biden met with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol in Seoul on Saturday to discuss their approach to North Korea. They agreed on the necessity of denuclearizing the Korean peninsula.

Biden also discussed security issues in talks on Monday with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio. They agreed on the importance of strengthening Japan's defense capabilities. Biden said he hoped their countries' alliance would be a "positive force" in the world.

The President demonstrated the US commitment to the region through an initiative known as the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity.

Biden, Kishida, and the leaders of 11 other countries want to digitalize trade, build more resilient supply chains, and expose corruption.

Chinese leaders have criticized the Americans for using the framework as a "political tool" to sow discord.

Key words : topped tourism destination
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220524_38/

Japan has topped a global ranking of tourism destinations. It's been recognized for its natural and cultural resources, public transportation, and hygiene.

The Swiss-based World Economic Forum published the ranking in a report on Tuesday. It releases the report every two years.

It's the first time that Japan has taken top honors. It replaces the US, which slipped to second place. Spain and France are third and fourth. The list includes nearly 120 destinations.

The report says the pandemic has highlighted the importance of the tourism sector to the global economy.

It says countries should prioritize better hygiene and security to ensure sustainable growth for the industry.

Key words : russian living in other countries
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20220510210552073/

Russia's assault on Ukraine is hurting its own citizens abroad. We meet some of the 9,000 Russian residents of Japan. They face hardship from financial sanctions, threats to their safety if they protest the war, and even family breakdowns. NHK World's Hashimoto Tomomi has the details.

at 18:30 (JST), May 24

Asian View

"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20220524183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : agenda and india stronger
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220524_24/

Leaders of the group of countries known as the Quad -- Japan, the United States, Australia and India -- have met for a summit to discuss a range of issues.

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio was the host of the talks. He said recent events have underlined the importance of international cooperation to maintain peace and stability.

"Russia's aggression in Ukraine is a direct challenge to the principles of the United Nations," said Kishida. "We must not let the same situation happen in the Indo-Pacific region."

US President Joe Biden outlined some of the challenges facing the Quad countries.
Biden said, "Fundamental principles of international order, territorial integrity and sovereignty, international law, human rights must always be defended, regardless of where they're violated in the world. So the Quad had a lot of work ahead of us."

Tuesday's summit also included the prime minister of India, Narendra Modi, as well as Australia's new leader, Anthony Albanese.

Both affirmed their commitment to what the group of four countries stands for.

Albanese said, "The new Australian government's priorities align with the Quad agenda. Taking action on climate change and building a stronger and more resilient Indo-Pacific region through better economic security, better cyber security, better energy security, and better environmental and health security."

Modi said, "The Quad has become an effective group because of our determination, and the strength of our democracies. We are now making progress toward realizing a free and open Indo-Pacific, with the cooperation of all countries."

The leaders are expected to have talked about their commitment to the rule of law, with an eye on China's growing assertiveness.

North Korea's missile program, which has ramped up testing in recent months, is also expected to have been on the agenda.

Key words : china reacted
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220523_36/

China has reacted sharply to US President Joe Biden's remarks signaling a willingness to get involved militarily to defend Taiwan.

China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Monday that China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposed to the remarks.

Wang said Taiwan is an inseparable part of Chinese territory and an internal affair of China's. He added no external interference will be tolerated.

The spokesperson stressed that Beijing will take resolute actions to safeguard its sovereignty and security interests. He said China urges Washington to be cautious in word and deed on the Taiwan issue, and refrain from sending what he called wrong signals to Taiwan independence forces.

Wang also referred to remarks made during the joint news conference after the Japan-US summit. The two countries mentioned China by name in declaring their strong opposition to any attempts to change the status quo by force in the East and South China seas.

The spokesperson said China strongly objects to Japan and the US tarnishing China's image by creating a stir over the issue, and interfering in its internal affairs.

He also said the so-called threat and deterrence policy of the US has already thrown Europe into confusion, and it should not be allowed to bring harm to the Asia-Pacific region.

Key words : Biden relatives
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220523_35/

The relatives of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea decades ago spoke to reporters following their meeting with US President Joe Biden on Monday.

Members of the group met privately with Biden for about half an hour at the State Guest House in Tokyo on Monday.

Among those that spoke to reporters after the meeting were the head of the families' group, Yokota Takuya, whose sister Megumi was abducted in 1977, and their 86-year old mother, Sakie.

They said that at the start of the meeting, Biden kneeled next to Sakie, who was seated, before speaking to her.

Biden asked if he could give her a hug and the two embraced.

Biden has lost two children. He reportedly pulled out a photo of his late eldest son, telling them of the anguish of having to part with members of the family.

Participants said Biden spoke with all the members of the group.

Sakie said Biden told the group he understood their feelings and empathized with them.

Sakie added the US president kneeled while he talked to her, which so surprised her that she stood up.

She also noted that next year, she will be the same age as her late husband when he passed away. She said she wants to see Megumi, even if only for a moment, and that she wants to realize the return of all the abductees to Japan.

Key words : un high visit no journalist
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220524_05/

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet has arrived in China to tour the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, in what is the first visit by a UN human rights chief to the country since 2005.

Bachelet is scheduled to visit Urumqi, the central city of the Xinjiang region, and Kashgar in southern Xinjiang during her six-day trip.

Her visit comes amid concerns among Western nations about alleged forced labor and other violations targeting the ethnic Uyghur people in Xinjiang. The Chinese government has consistently denied allegations of abuse.

On Monday, Bachelet met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, before kicking off her tour.

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, or OHCHR, posted a photo of their meeting on its Twitter account. The message reads, "We will be discussing sensitive, important human rights issues, and I hope this will help us work together to advance human rights in China and globally."

China's foreign ministry revealed on its website that the meeting took place.

The ministry said Wang told Bachelet that Beijing has always made it a fundamental responsibility to safeguard the human rights of ethnic minorities.

Wang also said mutual respect should be practiced when it comes to promoting human rights globally, and that such issues should not be politicized.

Wang added that on the basis of mutual respect and equal treatment, China is willing to work constructively with the OHCHR.

No journalists will accompany Bachelet on her visit to the Xinjiang region. Officials say Bachelet will hold a news conference after the trip.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said her visit would be conducted in a "closed-loop" manner designed to prevent the coronavirus from spreading.

Key words : former thailand
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220523_45/

In Thailand, a former minister ousted in the military coup eight years ago has won by a landslide in Bangkok's gubernatorial election. The ex-governor, appointed by the prime minister, came fifth in Sunday's vote.

Chadchart Sittipunt won more than 1.3 million votes, or over 50 percent of ballots cast.
He served as transport minister during the administration led by Yingluck Shinawatra -- a sister of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

The election was the first gubernatorial vote since the coup staged by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, formerly chief of the army.

Sunday marked the eighth anniversary of the military takeover. Chadchart said it was a meaningful day for him.
Thirty candidates stood in the election, including former Governor Aswin Kwanmuang, who ran as an independent after resigning in March.

Pundits say the result reflects the government's unpopularity.

Chadchart getting half the votes shows Thailand's political division is waning. He won broad support -- not only from the pro-Thaksin camp. The result is seen as a bellwether for the general election expected to be held by next March, when the government's term expires.

Key words : indonesia export
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220523_23/

Indonesia lifted its export ban on palm oil on Monday.

Indonesia accounts for almost 60 percent of global palm oil production. But in late April, the country imposed the export ban to secure domestic supplies.

After Russia invaded Ukraine, prices for palm and other cooking oil rose due to concerns over the supply of sunflower oil. Ukraine is a major sunflower oil producer.

Indonesia decided to lift its palm oil export ban, saying it expects the oil's supply to be stable and its prices to fall. Officials also say they want to curb the negative impact of the ban on 17 million jobs in the palm oil industry.

Palm oil is used not only in food but also in other products, including cosmetics. Last year, about one-third of palm oil shipped to Japan came from Indonesia.

Many eyes are on whether Indonesia's move will ease upward pressure on palm and other cooking oil prices around the world.

In Indonesia, cooking oil costs up to 70 percent more than a year ago even after the country introduced the palm oil export ban.

A vendor of deep-fried food in Jakarta says cooking oil still costs a lot. He says he wants the prices to fall so that he can do his business more easily.

Key words : 24 investment
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220524_18/

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio is expected to reveal that Japanese manufacturers will make investments in India worth 120 billion yen. He reportedly plans to announce the figure when he meets counterpart Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the Quad summit on Tuesday.

The investments, the equivalent of around 940 million dollars, will come from 24 manufacturers.

More than half of the figure will come from 14 auto parts makers. Six air-conditioning makers will spend more than 100 million dollars.
The other four include makers of medical equipment and electronics parts.

Kishida said back in March that he wanted to see 40 billion dollars' worth of Japanese private sector investment in India over the next five years.

Suzuki Motor has already announced investments worth 1.2 billion dollars. Toyota Motor has pledged to spend more than 625 million dollars.

at 18:30 (JST), May 23

Asian View

"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20220523183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : Kishida welcome before noon
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220523_21/

The leaders of Japan and the United States are sitting down for an official meeting in Tokyo.

Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio said at the meeting, "I sincerely welcome your visit to Japan. It shows that the United States will continue to strengthen its involvement in the Indo-Pacific region under any circumstances."

Kishida and President Joe Biden spoke briefly to reporters shortly before noon. They are scheduled to hold a joint press conference later on Monday.

Both leaders are expected to stress the US and Japan's close alliance, and commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Biden said, "Prime Minister, thank you for the welcome. I'm delighted you're welcoming me. It's been a good relation we had this far. It's great to be with you again and to continue our discussions on how Japan and the United States can harness our alliance as a positive force not only in the region, but in the world."

They are expected to discuss responses to China's growing assertiveness in the region, as well as Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and North Korea's weapons tests.

Biden will also speak about the US military's "extended deterrence" capabilities for Japan, including nuclear weapons. Kishida will also present the Japanese government's plans to increase defense spending.

The ruling Liberal Democratic Party proposes that the country should possess "counterstrike capability" to deal with ballistic missile threats.

Speaking this morning, Biden says the US and Japan will face the challenges of today, and the future, together.

Key words : fully committed
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220523_20/

US President Joe Biden says the United States remains fully committed to Japan's defense.

Biden made the remark at the start of his meeting with Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio in Tokyo on Monday.

The president said the US-Japan alliance has long been the cornerstone of peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

He said the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, or IPEF, will be launched later on Monday to increase cooperation with other nations in the region and deliver concrete benefits for local people.

Biden also mentioned that Japan is working with other G7 partners to hold Russian President Vladimir Putin accountable for the war in Ukraine and to stand up for shared democratic values. He thanked Kishida for his strong leadership and his support for Ukrainians.

Biden again expressed his gratitude to the prime minister for hosting the Quad summit that will be held on Tuesday. He said, "Two great democracies in the Indo-Pacific are always looking for ways to do more together." He said he is looking forward to talking more to Kishida about these issues.

Biden also called Kishida by his first name, Fumio, and thanked the prime minister for welcoming him and his team to Japan.

Key words : lodged
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220521_10/

Japan has lodged a protest with China after detecting construction work for a new structure near the two countries' median line in the East China Sea.

Japan and China agreed in 2008 to jointly develop gas fields in the region. But as negotiations for a related treaty stalled, China has pursued its own development activities in the area, including construction near the median line.

Japan's foreign ministry announced on Friday that it confirmed China had started work on a new structure on the Chinese side of the line.

The head of the Japanese Foreign Ministry's Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, Funakoshi Takehiro, lodged a protest with the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo.

He says it is "extremely regrettable" that China is unilaterally going ahead with the gas field development.

He urged China to swiftly resume talks for the related treaty around the 2008 agreement.

The ministry says this is the 17th Chinese structure of its kind.

Key words : north fever attendance
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220523_06/

North Korea has held a state funeral for a top military official despite the nation's "fever" outbreak.

The ruling Workers' Party newspaper Rodong Sinmun said on Monday that the service for Hyon Chol Hae, marshal of the Korean People's Army, took place on Sunday with leader Kim Jong Un in attendance.

Kim, who chaired a state funeral committee for the event, said Hyon's noble soul will live forever along with the "dazzling strengthening and development" of the country's military.

The late marshal is believed to have given Kim military training.

On Monday, North Korea reported more than 167,000 new suspected coronavirus cases.

The total number of suspected infections has surged since late April to over 2.8 million, which represents one out of 10 North Koreans.

Nonetheless, photos carried by the newspaper showed crowds of people gathered along the route of Hyon's hearse to bid him farewell.

Key words : human rights next week
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220521_08/

The UN human rights chief will visit China next week to tour the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, or OHCHR, said on Friday that High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet will pay an official visit to China from May 23 through May 28.

It will be the first visit to China by a UN High Commissioner for Human Rights since 2005.

The OHCHR said Bachelet will visit Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang region, and Kashgar in southern Xinjiang. The office added she will meet with Chinese government officials and business representatives.

She is expected to issue a statement at a news conference on May 28, the final day of her visit.

Western nations are concerned about alleged forced labor and other violations targeting the ethnic Uyghur people in Xinjiang. The Chinese government has consistently denied allegations of abuse.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed hope that Bachelet's visit will be fruitful.

But observers say success of the mission depends on whether Beijing will allow the UN unfettered movement in Xinjiang.

US State Department spokesperson Ned Price expressed serious doubts over Bachelet's planned visit at a telephone news conference on Friday.

Price said the US government has no expectation that China will grant the necessary access required to conduct a complete, unmanipulated assessment of the human rights environment in Xinjiang.

He added that for months, the US has called upon the High Commissioner to release a report drafted by her staff detailing the situation in Xinjiang, but it remains unavailable.

Price added that the high commissioner's continued silence in the face of indisputable evidence of atrocities in Xinjiang is deeply concerning.

Key words : cambodia
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220521_20/

Official campaigning for commune council elections in Cambodia started on Saturday.

Voters will elect the members of more than 1,600 commune councils across the country from about 86,000 candidates representing 17 political parties.

The vote is held every five years. This year's elections are scheduled for June 5.

The ruling Cambodian People's Party led by Prime Minister Hun Sen touted the country's economic growth and development at a rally in the capital Phnom Penh.

An opposition party formed a convoy of cars and pledged more support for the poor.

Dissatisfaction with Hun Sen, who has been in power for more than 30 years, saw the largest opposition party make major gains in the last commune elections.

However, the country's Supreme Court later ordered the party to be dissolved for allegedly attempting to overthrow the government.

As a result, Hun Sen's party won all of the parliamentary seats in the general election the following year.

Attention is on how many seats opposition parties will secure ahead of next year's parliamentary election, while Hun Sen continues his heavy-handed tactics.

Key words : subway partially
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220522_20/

Subway services have partially resumed in the Chinese city of Shanghai, but a strict lockdown remains in place in many districts to contain the coronavirus outbreak.

Some subway lines resumed operations on Sunday. Local media say train cars were thoroughly disinfected, but few passengers were on board.

City authorities have announced a plan to ease the restrictions in phases and return to normal life in June in response to a drop in case counts.

After having reported more than 20,000 daily new infections in April, the tally started to fall and remained below 1,000 for seven straight days until Saturday.

Residents of districts where no cases have been confirmed for 10 days or more are allowed to go out to buy food and other daily necessities.

But only one person in a family can leave their home at a designated time slot.

Key words : skytree
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20220522_23/

Japan's iconic Tokyo Skytree has marked its 10th anniversary with a Kabuki performance at its top -- 634 meters above ground.

The radio tower's operator allowed the media to access the top platform for the first time to commemorate the occasion on Sunday.

A special stage was set up for Kabuki actor Ichikawa Ebizo.

Ebizo said before the performance that he would display a technique called "nirami" to pray for world peace, the end of the coronavirus pandemic and to ward off evil on behalf of everyone who is facing challenges.

"Nirami" is a glare with each eye looking at a different direction. The technique is performed with a pose in which the actor stretches one of his legs forward.

The "nirami" move is said to drive away evil from people who see it.