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Japanese investment in Indian finance hits record as business ties tighten
Tokyo drawn to vast market where Chinese competition is limited by geopolitical tensions
LIVE: Japan vs Australia – Women’s Asian Cup 2026 final
Follow our live build-up, with team news, ahead of our text commentary stream of the Women's Asian Cup final.
Samsung is bringing AirDrop to Galaxy phones soon
Starting with the Galaxy S26, AirDrop compatibility is coming to Samsung phones, rolling out through software updates. Samsung’s mobile boss Choi Won-joon just confirmed it publicly at a press briefing in Japan. AirDrop has always been the ecosystem glue that people actually feel. People stick with iPhones because their friends all tap a button for […]
Trump faces his most difficult Iran war decision: Will he deploy U.S. troops to seize uranium?
The president has been circumspect about how far he's willing to go to follow through on his pledge to destroy Iran's weapons program once and for all, including seizing or destroying the near-bomb-grade nuclear material that Iran possesses.
Trump Jokes About Pearl Harbor in Meeting With Japan’s Leader
Breaking a taboo, President Trump needled Japan’s prime minister about the World War II attack, as she widened her eyes and appeared to take a deep breath in the Oval Office.
Trump may push Japan for help with Iran war in White House meeting
U.S. allies such as Germany, Italy and Spain have ruled out participating in any Gulf mission.
How Japan’s Leader Sanae Takaichi Found Her Voice in D.C. Decades Ago
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi got her start in politics as an intern for a trailblazing Colorado lawmaker. She returns to Washington this week to meet with President Trump.
Forum on harnessing Artificial Intelligence for health equity
Register to this forumOver the past decade, artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly evolved in complexity, performance, and utility. Its integration across a wide range of industrial sectors has accelerated, with healthcare emerging as one of the most transformative sectors. In this sector, AI has enabled high-impact applications – from enhancing the speed and accuracy of disease diagnosis and supporting clinical decision-making, to strengthening public health initiatives such as disease surveillance and workforce optimization. Moreover, AI holds immense potential to empower individuals, enabling them to take greater control of their personal health and well-being. Yet the central question remains: Who benefits, who is at risk, and do these innovations close or widen health inequities? While the potential of AI-enabled applications is substantial, many countries have approached their adoption with caution. This hesitancy stems from concerns about risks and benefits, including model bias, data breaches, privacy violations, and the erosion of professional skills due to over-reliance on AI. Additional barriers include inadequate data infrastructure and a lack of robust evidence on the most effective forms and interfaces of AI to enhance service delivery and system performance. Moreover, the rapid rise of Generative AI has introduced a heightened urgency for the development of comprehensive governance and ethical frameworks. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Health Practice Team and Digital Sector, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Western Pacific, are convening the Forum on Harnessing AI for Health Equity on 25–26 March at ADB Headquarters. Senior health officials from 16 developing member countries (DMCs), alongside leading researchers, innovators, and policymakers from across Asia and the Pacific, will engage in discussions on how AI can be governed, financed, and scaled to deliver healthier lives for all. The forum is funded through the High-Level Technology Fund with support from the Government of Japan. Objectives The two-day forum aims to:Identify high-impact, evidence-based health AI use cases suitable for resource-constrained settings and map out a pipeline for potential supportIntroduce and validate the WHO's policy guidance on minimum necessary ecosystem for countries and institutions to self-assess readiness for AI adoptionObtain initial commitment from participating stakeholders to join a pilot regional initiative focused on data/model sharing for a priority health challengeEndorse a prioritized set of actionable policy recommendations focusing on governance, regulation, and sustainable financing necessary to scale high-impact health AI use cases in resource-constrained settings Target participants The forum will convene participants from 16 ADB DMCs including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Fiji, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Mongolia, Nepal, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Uzbekistan, and Viet Nam. In addition, health system leaders and practitioners, private sector technologists, academic experts, representatives from civil society organizations, development partners, and philanthropic institutions engaged in AI for Health from Australia, the People’s Republic of China, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea will also be invited. SessionsDay 1 (25 March)Session 1: AI Use Cases for the Care Continuum: Improving Access and QualitySession 2: Adopting a risk-based approach for AI use case prioritizationSession 3: Establishing the Minimum Ecosystem for Implementation Risk ManagementSession 4: Future-Ready Health Workforce: Building Competency for Human-AI CollaborationDay 2 (26 March)Session 5: The Political Economy of AI in Health: Understanding Stakeholder Interests and their Impact on EquitySession 6: AI and Health Financing: Supporting Fair Coverage and ProtectionSession 7: AI Regulation and Oversight: Pathways for Different RealitiesSession 8: The Way Forward – Building Alliances and Regional Partnership How to registerThe forum will be held in a hybrid format. In-person attendance is by invitation only, while livestreaming of the forum will be available to the public. To register, please complete this form on or before 24 March 2026.Event organizers / partnersAsian Development Bank (ADB)WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific High-Level Technology Fund (HLTF)ContactAkihito WatabeHealth Specialist, SD3-HSDawatabe@adb.org Jae Kyoun KimHealth Specialist, SD3-HSDjkkim@adb.org
Japan's leader heads to Washington for a visit complicated by the Iran war fallout
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has left for the United States for what she expects to be a “very difficult” meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Japan's Idemitsu to invest $500 million in Australian Midocean to enter LNG business
Idemitsu Kosan , Japan's second-biggest oil refiner, said on Tuesday it will invest $500 million in Australia's MidOcean Energy as part of a move towards a full-scale entry into the LNG business.
Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani apologizes for Japan's early WBC exit
Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, the MVP of the 2023 World Baseball Classic, takes partial responsibility for Japan's early exit from this year's WBC, despite posting better stats than last time.
Women in Politics: A Persistent Glass Ceiling
Women are presidents or heads of government in only 28 of the world’s 195 countries, and 101 states have never had a female leader.
4 Takeaways From Venezuela’s World Baseball Classic Quarterfinal Win Over Japan
Venezuela knocked out Japan on Saturday night, ensuring there will be a new WBC champion.
World Baseball Classic: Venezuela takes out defending champ Japan, will face Italy in semifinals
World Baseball Classic schedule, scores: Team USA to face Dominican Republic in semifinals; Japan vs. Venezuela concludes quarterfinals
World Baseball Classic live scores today: Italy-Puerto Rico and Japan-Venezuela
Keep up with the World Baseball Classic schedule on March 14, including game times, TV channels and live updates.
Indo-Pacific Energy Security Ministerial and Business Forum - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Japan
Global Issues Indo-Pacific Energy Security Ministerial and Business Forum The Indo-Pacific Energy Security Ministerial and Business Forum will take place March 14-15, 2026 in Tokyo. IPEM is a premier, high-level platform for announcing and advancing energy deals, partnerships and investments that strengthen regional integration and secure critical supply chains across the Indo-Pacific. IPEM is co-hosted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan and the National Energy Dominance Council of the United States. It is sponsored by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency in partnership with the U.S. Departments of State, Interior, Energy, and Commerce, as well as the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). IPEM Forum main page Mission Japan Press Release Feb. 24, 2026 Announcement from the Department of Energy Submit your proposal to join senior government leaders and industry executives shaping the future of global energy security.
Japan PM Takaichi’s Health Draws Concerns Ahead of Trump Meeting
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi canceled her participation in some official events Thursday due to poor health, days before she’s scheduled to depart for a trip to the US to meet with President Donald Trump.
Japan PM’s health sparks concern before Trump summit
Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi appeared unwell at a budget committee session on Thursday, which sparked concerns over her health. This comes less than a week before her meeting with President Trump in Washington. On Friday, Japan’s government said she has recovered and returned to official duties. CNN’s Hanako Montgomery reports.
Combat Tips for Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, Available Now
Japanese RPG classic Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster is out today for Xbox Series X|S. Master its famous combat system with these starting tips:
Famitsu sales (3/2/26 - 3/8/26) - first week sales revealed for Pokemon Pokopia
The latest Japanese hardware sales from Famitsu are as follows: Switch 2 – 127,508 Switch OLED – 10,245 PS5 Digital Edition – 9,569 Switch Lite – 7,136 Switch – 6,389 PS5 Pro – 3,803 PS5 – 3,447 Xbox Series X – 235 Xbox Series X Digital Edition – 159 Xbox Series S – 92 PS4 – 29 For comparison’s sake,...
Pokemon Pokopia sales top 2.2 million in four days
Total sales for Pokemon Pokopia surpassed 2.2 million units in its first four days of release, The Pokemon Company announced. One million units were sold in Japan alone.
From Japanese walking to 75 Hard: what the science really says about viral fitness trends
Fitness advice spreads fast online, but not all of it is grounded in science. Research reveals which popular trends hold up and which don’t.
Japan Lobby to Steer Banks on Tackling Booming LBO Business
Japan’s main banking lobby plans to establish risk management guidelines for lenders offering leveraged loans to finance mergers and acquisitions deals as transactions soar in the country, according to people familiar with the matter.
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Team USA falls to Italy; Shohei Ohtani misses Japan's final pool play game
World Baseball Classic 2026: Italy hangs on to beat United States, Japan takes down Czechia with late rally
Japanese scientists discover how falling cats almost always make perfect landings
When cats fall, they usually land on their feet. This uncanny ability to right themselves before hitting the ground has long puzzled scientists. Now, a team from Yamaguchi University in Japan has the ...
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Team USA beats Mexico; Shohei Ohtani not in lineup for Japan's final pool play game
How to watch Czechia vs. Japan at the World Baseball Classic on March 10
The World Baseball Classic is back in 2026. Here's how to tune in to Tuesday's Czechia vs. Japan matchup.
Yomiuri: Daito Trust Construction Aims to Expand U.S. House Flipping Business
Japanese major real estate firm Daito Trust Construction Co. is strengthening its overseas operations. In an interview with The Yomiuri Shimbun, Yutaka Amano, senior executive officer and general manager of the company's Business Development Headquarters, revealed that the firm plans to bring net sales up to 100 billion yen for its U.S. operations.
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Mexico to face U.S. after routing Brazil; Shohei Ohtani and Japan rally over Australia
G-MODE Archives+ Digital Devil Saga: Avatar Tuner: A’s TEST Server announced for Switch, PC
G-MODE will release ATLUS-developed game Digital Devil Saga: Avatar Tuner: A’s TEST Server as a G-MODE Archives+ title for Switch via Nintendo eShop and PC via Steam in Japan, the company ann…
World Baseball Classic schedule, scores, standings: Japan advances while Mexico, Cuba, D.R. and Italy improve to 2-0 on Sunday
World Baseball Classic schedule, scores: Japan advances while Cuba, D.R. and Italy improve to 2-0 on Sunday
Celebrating the Broad Appeal of U.S.-Japan Entertainment
JX ’26, an evening gala honoring the visionary leaders and companies shaping the future of the U.S.–Japan entertainment industry, was held March 3 at Soho Warehouse in Los Angeles. Co-hosted by JX (Japan Crossover) – the Entertainment Subcommittee of the LA Next Generation Japanese American Leaders Initiative – and the Consulate General of Japan in […]
Nuclear war fear? The food that protected Japanese people against atomic bomb radiation in Nagasaki
World Baseball Classic schedule, scores: Japan clinches quarterfinals berth with dramatic win over Australia
World Baseball Classic schedule, scores: Sunday begins with big Japan-Australia showdown in Tokyo
How to watch Australia vs. Japan at the World Baseball Classic on March 8
The World Baseball Classic is back in 2026. Here's how to tune in to Sunday's Australia vs. Japan matchup.
World Baseball Classic Saturday schedule, scores: Japan, U.S. and Puerto Rico all improve to 2-0
World Baseball Classic Saturday schedule, scores: Another full day featuring Japan, USA and Puerto Rico
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Shohei Ohtani homers again as Japan beats Korea; Team USA cruises vs. Brazil
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Shohei Ohtani homers again as Japan leads Korea; Team USA cruises vs. Brazil
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Shohei Ohtani homers again for Japan; Team USA cruises vs. Brazil;
World Baseball Classic live scores today: Ohtani, Japan vs. Korea on March 7
Keep up on the latest World Baseball Classic action including scores and highlights.
Taiwan beats Vietnam 1-0 in Women's Asian Cup match
Taiwan defeated Vietnam 1-0 on Saturday to move into second place in Group C at the Women’s Asian Cup with one match remaining. Su Yu-hsuan scored the decisive goal in the 26th minute after Saki Matsunaga’s shot hit the crossbar, leaving Su to nod the rebound into an empty net for the team which won the last of its three Asian Cup titles in 1981. It was a deserved victory for Taiwan, 2-0 losers to Japan on Wednesday, which created several chances to extend its lead.
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Shohei Ohtani's grand slam, 5 RBI lead Japan over Chinese Taipei
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Shohei Ohtani's grand slam, 5 RBI leading Japan over Chinese Taipei
Is Dodgers’ Andrew Friedman a global business icon? In Japan, he is
What could Japanese teams learn from how Andrew Friedman leads the Dodgers? This is what the inquiring mind of Hideki Kuriyama, Shohei Ohtani's former manager, wanted to know.
Yomiuri: Sapporo Holding's Subsidiary to Sell Vending Machine Business
A subsidiary of Japanese brewing giant Sapporo Holdings Ltd. on Thursday announced it will sell its vending machine business.
World Baseball Classic: Who are the past champions?
Japan has won the World Baseball Classic three times, more than any other nation. See every past champion and MVP.
Japan’s Cargo Spacecraft Nears Departure as Crew Works Spacewalk Preps, Science
Mission managers have given the go for a Japanese cargo spacecraft to depart the International Space Station at the end of the week. Meanwhile, the Expedition 74 crew is reviewing upcoming spacewalk procedures, packing a second cargo spacecraft for its departure, studying artificial intelligence tools, and conducting Earth observations.
Every ant is a queen in this parasitic species — and they reproduce by cloning themselves and hijacking other ant colonies
A rare Japanese ant is the only species known to lack female workers and males; all of its young develop into parasitic queens that try to take over other colonies.
World Baseball Classic Power Rankings: Team USA boasts loaded squad; Dominican Republic, Japan bulk up
Let's dive into the 10 best WBC entrants
Capcom Spotlight set for March 5, featuring Mega Man: Dual Override, PRAGMATA, and more
Capcom will host a Capcom Spotlight broadcast on March 5 at 2:00 p.m. PT / 5:00 p.m. ET / June 27 at 7:00 JST, the company announced. You will be able to watch it on YouTube (English, Japanese).
Team USA stars ready to win WBC for the 'greatest country in the world'
The 2026 World Baseball Classic features. the USA's most loaded roster ever. Can they dethrone Japan
South Korea's Juristocracy Moment Reflects a Deeper Political Divide
In South Korea, deep ideological polarization turns courts into arbiters of power, making judicial rulings a key driver of political legitimacy.
Imagery, Algorithms, and the Ballot: What Takaichi’s Victory Says About Youth Politics in the Digital Age
Sanae Takaichi’s electoral victory in February marks a historic turning point in Japanese politics. As Japan’s first female prime minister and the leader of a commanding parliamentary majority, she represents change in both symbolic and strategic terms. ,
Japan: Resident Evil Requiem on Nintendo Switch 2 is sold out at three of the biggest game retailers
It seems as though Japanese gamers are lapping up the recently released Resident Evil Requiem on the Nintendo Switch 2. Reports are circulating that the latest Resident Evil game on the Nintendo…
Dodgers manager bothered by Tanner Scott quote
When the Dodgers installed Japanese-style bidets prior to the 2025 season, they were merely hoping Roki Sasaki would be part of the roster that used them. Those bidets did their job, as far as recruiting Sasaki and receiving anything he…
Panasonic's in-flight entertainment success shows path for renewed growth
Japanese group's systems used by all top 20 airlines rated for entertainment quality
Steam Deck OLED prices go up in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan from March 6
Steam Deck OLED price increases KOMODO has announced a Steam Deck OLED price increase for Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. The company cites higher
Samsung Brings Satellite Communication Support to Galaxy Smartphones Across the Globe
Collaboration with leading telecom operators across North America, Europe and Japan supports satellite-based communication on select Galaxy smartphones, including the Galaxy S26 series
SocGen Expands Japan Credit Business With Santander, UBS Hires
Societe Generale SA has hired two senior people for its business selling credit products in Japan, as opportunities in the country spur global banks to expand their local presence.
Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Drawing Major Buzz Ahead of WBC
Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has left the team and their spring training preparation, departing for Team Japan and the World Baseball Classic.
The business behind Nintendo: How the gaming giant makes billions
From humble beginnings making playing cards in 19th-century Japan, Nintendo has evolved into one of the world's most influential gaming companies. Powered by a catalogue of iconic characters and franchises — including Mario, The Legend of Zelda and Pokémon — the company has turned nostalgia and broad family appeal into a durable business advantage.
"I'm still angry at the game industry" CyberConnect2 CEO's efforts to shake up Japanese entertainment's stick-in-the-mud approach are driven by his love for Shonen Jump manga
In a recent interview, CyberConnect2 CEO Hiroshi Matsuyama talks about the "driving force" behind his creativity.
‘I considered starting over as a farmer’: Masao Adachi on political cinema, revolution and Japan today
The director and ex-Japanese Red Army militant discusses his new film Escape, about the anarchist fugitive Satoshi Kirishima, the frustrations of radical film-making and progressive politics
Japanese Comedy Hit 'You Laugh You Lose' Goes Global With Banijay
Banijay Entertainment acquires global format rights to Yoshimoto's Japanese no-laughing endurance comedy 'You Laugh You Lose.'
Panasonic turns off US TV business with handover to Chinese rival
Skyworth to take over most of Japanese electronics group’s foreign television operations
This is Trump 2.0, bro. What do you bench?
Their policies divide the country, but on social media the president’s men are crushing it as influencers, bro.
Media Buying Briefing: Dentsu’s new CEO on how he’s going to grow the business again
Takeshi Sano takes over as global CEO, and brings with him a more outgoing and worldly approach to running the Japanese-owned holding company.
PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
IN THE SPOTLIGHT PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of KoreaThe Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) is making significant progress in strengthening pandemic preparedness, with dedicated support from the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC).Aligned with the WHO Global Influenza Strategy and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework Partnership Contribution High‑Level Implementation Plan III (2024–2030), the country is strengthening its capacity to prepare for and respond to influenza and other respiratory threats. In early 2025, a core team from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) participated in a two‑day virtual workshop, which included a mini‑simulation exercise. The workshop was organized by WHO SEARO in collaboration with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Secretariat at WHO headquarters and the WHO Country Office for the DPRK. Read more A REGIONAL CONSULTATION GUIDES WHO SEARO IN DEVELOPING A ROADMAP FOR IMPLEMENTING THE PREPPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCE FOR EMERGING THREATS (PRET) INITIATIVE BASED RESPIRATORY PATHOGEN PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESSInfluenza and other respiratory pathogens with pandemic potential continue to pose major public health risks globally. To strengthen regional preparedness and response, Member States of the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR) convened in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to review and provide input on the draft Roadmap and Action Framework for Broad Respiratory Pathogen Pandemic Planning (2026–2031). Supported through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) funds, the proposed roadmap aims to advance robust, integrated preparedness and response capacities for influenza and other respiratory threats across SEAR. This work is aligned with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative and the SEAR Strategic Roadmap on Health Security and Health System Resilience for Emergencies Read moreSRI LANKA’S USE OF ANTIVIRALS TO REDUCE THE SEASONAL INFLUENZA BURDEN Sri Lanka is strengthening its influenza response by placing greater emphasis on rapid testing, timely treatment, and integration with maternal health services. With support from WHO, the country is building a stronger evidence base on the burden of influenza and the value of vaccination, advancing a holistic approach to protect vulnerable populations and enhance pandemic preparedness. To reduce hospitalizations and deaths from seasonal influenza, Sri Lanka is taking proactive steps to expand access to rapid diagnostic testing and ensure prompt initiation of treatment. National clinical guidelines recommend the use of oseltamivir for individuals at high risk of complications, helping prevent severe illness and shorten the duration of infection. This strategy not only saves lives but also supports local pharmaceutical production, contributing to a reliable supply of antivirals for both seasonal outbreaks and future pandemics.Read moreBHUTAN BOOSTS PANDEMIC INFLUENZA READINESS WITH PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS FRAMEWORK PARTNERSHIP CONTRIBUTION SUPPORTED TRAINING AND SIMULATIONSOriginally developed in 2012, the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) has long served as Bhutan’s central framework for managing influenza threats. In 2024, the plan underwent a comprehensive update to reflect evolving global and regional guidance, lessons learned from the COVID‑19 pandemic, and new capacities developed under the PIP Framework. The revised NIPPRP is now more clearly aligned with Bhutan’s broader emergency and disaster risk management structures, ensuring a coordinated, whole‑of‑government approach to pandemic response. As part of efforts to strengthen national pandemic preparedness, Bhutan conducted three national‑level training sessions followed by simulation exercises on influenza pandemic preparedness and response at five sentinel hospitals between April and May 2025, with support from the PIP Partnership Contribution (PC). These activities brought together more than 140 health professionals and key partners from across the country, with a focus on operationalizing the updated NIPPRP and enhancing readiness at key frontline facilities. Read moreSTRENGTHENING INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE: WHO BRINGS TOGETHER INFLUENZA EXPERTS FROM SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND WESTERN PACIFIC REGIONSThe World Health Organization (WHO) convened the 18th Bi‑regional Meeting of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and Influenza Surveillance for the WHO South‑East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9–11 September 2025. Hosted by the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), the meeting brought together representatives from Member States, Territories, and Areas across both regions, alongside experts from the WHO Collaborating Centres for Reference and Research on Influenza in Australia and Japan, the WHO Collaborating Centre for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals in the United States, quadripartite partners (WOAH and FAO), and other technical counterparts. The consultation provided a platform to review progress, share experiences, and outline priorities for strengthening influenza and respiratory pathogen surveillance across the two WHO regions.Read moreNETWORKS AND TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIPSSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC READINES: SOUTH-EAST ASIA ADVANCES UNITY STUDIES UNDER THE PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS INITIATIVEThe WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies initiative, also known as Unity Studies, provides a standardized, globally coordinated framework to support these efforts. Originally developed for influenza and adapted during COVID-19, Unity Studies enable countries to conduct rapid, nationally led investigations and studies to assess transmissibility, severity, susceptibility, and intervention effectiveness. To better prepare for future influenza pandemics, WHO has recently launched a network of sites which will be ready to conduct these investigations and studies rapidly in the event of a pandemic, or epidemic of an emerging or re-emerging respiratory pathogen. The WHO South-East Asia Region now hosts six sites of WHO GISRS Unity Studies across the five countries including Sri Lanka, strengthening regional capacity for early pandemic investigations. From 13–16 July 2025 in Colombo, the Global Public Health Summit offered an opportunity to advance this agenda. Read moreSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS THROUGH UNITY STUDIES: REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS FROM INDIA IN WHO’S SOUTH-EAST ASIA REGION As countries continue to strengthen their pandemic preparedness through investments in resilient health systems during the interpandemic period, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies Global Initiative, Global Initiative, commonly known as Unity Studies, remains a vital framework for respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness. These standardized epidemiological protocols enable countries to rapidly generate high‑quality data on transmissibility, infection severity, population immunity, and the effectiveness of public health interventions. To highlight how Unity Studies protocols are being adapted and applied in national settings, WHO Headquarters, together with WHO Regional Offices, including the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), hosted a global webinar. The session showcased case studies from India and the United Kingdom (UK), demonstrating innovative approaches to respiratory virus surveillance and pandemic readiness. Read moreSTRENGTHENING REGIONAL INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE AND PREPAREDNESS: WHO SEARO HOSTS HIGH-LEVEL WEBINAR AMID RISING H5 THREATS In response to the increasing detection of avian influenza A(H5) cases in humans globally and within the WHO South‑East Asia Region, the WHO Regional Office for South‑East Asia (SEARO) convened a regional webinar on 25 July 2025 to review preparedness mechanisms, strengthen surveillance pathways, and promote timely reporting of unusual respiratory events. The virtual session brought together more than 50 participants from Ministries of Health, National Influenza Centres (NICs), National IHR Focal Points (NFPs), WHO Headquarters, WHO Country Offices across the Region, and WHO Collaborating Centres (CCs) for influenza. The webinar provided an opportunity to share situational updates, discuss surveillance gaps, and reinforce coordination mechanisms critical for early detection and rapid response to avian influenza threats. Read moreOther Key PIP Updates (July-December 2025)MEMBER STATES:Bangladesh drafted and conducted a series of Core Group Meetings in 2025 to review and update the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan for Respiratory Pathogens. In addition, the country carried out Rapid Response Team (RRT) trainings on seasonal and avian influenza and other re‑emerging infectious diseases. Bangladesh also updated its epidemiological data‑training programme for physicians at sentinel surveillance sites, using a revised epidemiological data‑collection tool.Bhutan revised and updated its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) in 2025 and developed a national Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for influenza outbreak management. DPR Korea conducted a nationwide simulation exercise in July 2025 to support the update of its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan (2019). This followed a PRET‑based virtual orientation and mini‑simulation exercise held in May 2025 by SEARO and the WHO PRET Secretariat. The comprehensive exercise, conducted across central and provincial levels, assessed strengths and gaps in pandemic influenza preparedness and response. The feedback gathered has been incorporated into the revised draft plan to address identified weaknesses and strengthen overall readiness.India conducted a targeted nationwide online re‑orientation training on review and updates to the influenza portal for all State Surveillance Officers (SSOs) and relevant officials using the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). The training emphasized correct marking and reporting of influenza samples as “unsubtypable” or “not subtyped” where applicable, to ensure accurate national surveillance.Maldives conducted simulation exercises in three atolls based on its existing National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP). The country plans to conduct similar exercises in three additional atolls after updating the NPPRP in 2026. In addition, Maldives conducted training on FluID and FluMart as part of a broader data‑management training package for Ministry of Health and Health Protection Agency officials, aimed at improving routine reporting to WHO platforms and the DHIS2 system.In Myanmar, technical support was provided to the National Influenza Centre (NIC) through dedicated human‑resource support (January–December 2025) to sustain data management and laboratory detection capacity for influenza and other emerging and re‑emerging respiratory viruses. This support also included strengthening genomic sequencing capacity.Nepal conducted a consultative workshop on the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP) in July 2025. The workshop engaged key stakeholders from multiple sectors to review lessons from past pandemic responses, assess current mechanisms, and gather critical inputs for strengthening national preparedness. Key recommendations included revising the 2019 NPPRP and developing an updated Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan aligned with emerging risks, national priorities, and relevant international frameworks. Nepal also held a two day workshop dedicated to advancing the National Action Plan for Genomic Surveillance, aimed at reinforcing the country’s capacities for early detection and monitoring of emerging respiratory pathogens.Sri Lanka received the final report from WHO on the feasibility assessment for conducting an Influenza Burden of Disease (BoD) study in the country. The assessment, conducted from 28 April to 9 May 2025, included a desk review of existing data sources, document review, visits to sentinel surveillance sites, and key informant interviews. The study identified critical data sources required for a future BoD assessment, as well as their availability and quality. Officials from the Epidemiology Unit, the National Influenza Centre (NIC), and SARI/ILI sentinel hospitals across the country participated in the assessment.Timor Leste conducted on‑the‑job training and monitoring activities at two sentinel surveillance sites to strengthen surveillance and laboratory capacity for the detection of SARI, ILI, ARI, and other respiratory infections. REGIONAL OFFICE:SEARO conducted a Member States Consultation on the first draft of the Regional Roadmap and Strategic Action Framework for implementing WHO’s PRET‑based broad respiratory pathogen pandemic planning for 2026–2031. The consultation took place on 29–30 October 2025 during the final two days of the Regional PIP PC Annual Review and PRET Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Participants included representatives from Member States, WHO Country Offices, WHO SEARO, WHO Headquarters, partner agencies, and invited multidisciplinary technical experts. They reviewed the draft and provided detailed feedback, which has since been incorporated into a revised version. The consultation helped shape a shared regional vision for robust, PRET‑aligned pandemic preparedness, building on country‑level progress, addressing existing gaps and challenges, and aligning with global and regional health security frameworks. The publication is planned for release during the SEAR regional committee in 2026.SEARO documented the evolution of the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Planning process in the Region, tracing its development from its origins as a planning tool for responding to avian influenza outbreaks in 2006, through the experiences of the 2009 and 2019 pandemics, to the current status. The document outlines the way forward for respiratory pathogen pandemic planning across all 10 SEAR countries, aligning future national plans with WHO’s PRET Framework for broad respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness.The Infectious Hazard Management (IHM) Unit has drafted the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Guidance on Influenza Prevention and Control, aligned with the Global Influenza Strategy and other regional initiatives. The draft is currently under review. Although this technical product was developed in response to a request from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (MoPH‑DPRK), SEARO is finalizing it for use not only in DPRK but also across all Member States in the Region.The Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit, in collaboration with WHE/SEARO, completed a regional landscape analysis on key barriers, challenges, and opportunities for the introduction of seasonal influenza vaccination in WHO South‑East Asia Regional (SEAR) countries.Additionally, the Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit has completed a regional landscape analysis of influenza vaccine procurement systems across the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR).KEY MEETINGS AND PUBLICATIONSMEETINGS:Six-month progress review of the implementation of the PIP-PC workplans in SEAR, focusing on Outputs 1 and 2 for the period January to June 2025, and held virtually across three sessions on 4, 8, and 10 July 2025. Read moreAnnual Regional Meeting (Hybrid) on Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) and WHO’s Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Implementation in SEAR in Colombo, Sri Lanka, 27 to 30 October 2025. Read more18th Bi-regional Meeting (Virtual) of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and influenza surveillance in WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9 to 11 September 2025. Read morePUBLICATIONSImplications of influenza A virus surveillance in Southeast Asian Region countries: a scoping review of approaches for the surveillance of swine influenza viruses at human-swine interfaces. Read moreAnnual South-East Asia regional meeting on operational planning for implementation of global influenza strategy and preparedness for respiratory viruses in 2025 Report on annual review meeting of implementation of pandemic influenza preparedness (PIP) partnership Contribution (PC) Fund in South-East Asia Region and the simulation exercise on PRET Status of influenza in who south-East Asia Region
Sony and TCL plan joint venture in home entertainment
Japanese electronics manufacturer Sony and TCL Electronics Holdings Limited have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore the establishment of a joint venture in the home entertainment segment.
Dell PC teardown shows mechanically locked 12V-2x6 GPU power connector
Dell bolts down 12V-2x6 GPU power connector in Tower Plus EBT2250 Source: Chimolog A Japanese teardown and review of Dell’s Tower Plus EBT2250 by Chimolog
The A.I. Evangelists on a Mission to Shake Up Japan
Team Mirai, a political party founded by software engineers, won 11 seats in Japan’s legislature by promising chatbots, self-driving buses and high-tech jobs.
Business Lookahead: Nvidia earnings take center stage
STORY: As global markets react to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on President Trump's tariffs, Nvidia earnings head for center stage. These are the stories to watch in business and finance in the coming week. :: Nvidia's momentMarkets will be watching for Nvidia's quarterly results Wednesday...as investors worry about returns on AI spending and industry disruptions caused by the emerging tech.Nvidia shares have soared following the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022.But shares of the company and others in the "Magnificent Seven" have stalled so far in 2026.:: Anniversary angstTuesday marks the four-year anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.While the push for a ceasefire continues, getting one over the line remains difficult.Ukraine has faced sustained pressure to agree to a deal that could mean painful concessions, as Russian forces pound its power grid and slowly advance on the battlefield.The International Monetary Fund looks set to rubberstamp extended support, meaning Kyiv's bonds are flying high.:: Key Australia dataAustralia's consumer price reading Wednesday will be closely watched by investors, who are betting the central bank will hike rates at least once more this year.Earlier this month, Australia's central bank became the only one in the G10 outside Japan to tighten policy, as it struggles to bring inflation under control in a supply-constrained economy.:: British uneaseBritish Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces a reckoning Thursday in a Manchester special election.Investors will be watching the results closely. Friday could be another volatile day for British markets and Westminster.British gilts and the pound wobbled earlier this month as a crisis engulfed Starmer over what he knew of Peter Mandelson's links to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein when he appointed the former as U.S. ambassador.
Pokémon FireRed & LeafGreen Is Getting A Stunning 'Special Edition' Release In Japan
Still just a download code, mind
Japan Business Activity Strongest Since 2023 on Takaichi’s Push
Japan’s manufacturing activity stayed expansionary for a third month on the back of solid output, signaling firmer corporate sentiment as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi prepares to promote her investment plans.
Hims & Hers Health to acquire Australia's Eucalyptus for up to $1.15 billion
The deal would give Hims & Hers a foothold in Australia and Japan while deepening its presence in the United Kingdom, Germany, and Canada.
Yankees news: Anthony Volpe rounding into shape
Volpe feeling close to 100%; Yankees make Japan-centered FO hire; MLBPA fallout continues
Hims & Hers Announces Agreement to Acquire Eucalyptus, Accelerating Its Vision to Become the Leading Global Consumer Health Platform
Eucalyptus is a consumer healthcare leader in Australia, the UK and Germany, with expanding new operations in Japan and Canada. Hims Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE: HIMS), the leading health and wellness platform, today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Eucalyptus, an international leader in digital health, accelerating the company’s ability to bring access to high-quality, personalized care to more people across the world. As its US business continues to grow, Hims Hers will be well-positioned, upon closing of the acquisition, to expand into Australia and Japan and deepen its presence in the UK, Germany, and Canada. The terms of the transaction have been structured to preserve the financial flexibility of the company, ensuring continued control over balance sheet management and capital allocation. As its US business continues to grow, Hims Hers will be well-positioned, upon closing of the acquisition, to expand into Australia and Japan and
NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue Hosts Japan Institute for Health Security for Global Special Pathogen Preparedness Training Exchange - NYC Health + Hospitals
NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue welcomed three delegates from the Disease Control and Prevention Center (DCC), National Center for Global Health and
She built a career in Japan and says one thing is non-negotiable
Lauren Rose Kocher never worked full-time in the US, so her understanding of corporate culture was formed almost entirely in Japan.
Japan's exports jump 16.8% in January on strong Asia demand
Japan's exports rose for a fifth consecutive month in January, data showed on Wednesday, a sign that firm global demand was underpinning a fragile economic recovery.
JIP head Hirofumi Yoshimura refers to possible return to national politics
Osaka’s governor told JIP executives that he might eye national politics if an Osaka metropolis plan for regional administrative reorganization is approved.
From the Sports Desk: Worth its wait in gold
Team USA won the women's hockey semifinal 5-0, Elana Meyers Taylor won her first gold and Japan made figure skating history.
Business - Japan narrowly avoids recession as GDP grows 0.2% annually in last quarter of 2025
Japan avoids recession with weak return to growth
Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news, as Japan misses growth forecasts for the final three months of 2025
Japan’s economy barely grows in the last quarter as exports slow, with 2025 expansion just 1.1%.
Japan has reported its economy expanded at an anemic 0.2% annual pace in the last quarter, with growth for 2025 at just 1.1%.
📺 Friday football: Bundesliga, Ligue 1, Saudi league and more
JAPANESE CHAMPIONSHIP07:00 - Vissel Kobe vs. V-Varen - YouTube (GOAT)SAUDI CHAMPIONSHIP10:55 - Al-Shabab vs. Al-Ahli - BandSports and YT (GOAT)12:25 - Al-Hilal vs. Al-Ettifaq - YouTube (GOAT)14:30 - A...
Japan’s technology investor SoftBank Group sees profitability return on AI boom
Japanese technology and telecoms giant SoftBank Group reports it swung back to profitability in the last quarter of 2025 as its investments in OpenAI and other ventures paid off.
How have rising concert and live entertainment ticket prices affected you?
KPBS wants to know if higher ticket prices have changed how often you go to concerts or what kinds of live events you attend.
Japan’s thunderbolt election: Takaichi resets politics, economics, and diplomacy
Japan’s first-ever female leader delivered the biggest win for her party since its creation 70 years ago, but big challenges lie ahead.
Global stocks reach record highs; BP annual profits slump 16%
Japan’s Nikkei jumps to new peak in extended rally after Sanae Takaichi’s party secures election victory; London-listed oil giant BP suspends share buyback
Japan's Takaichi to pursue conservative agenda after election landslide
Japan's first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, brought the ruling Liberal Democratic Party its biggest-ever electoral victory, fueling her ambitions to pursue to a political agenda which she says could "split public opinion."