News & Insights

Overview On April 16, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga became the first foreign leader to meet with President Biden in the White House.  The Government of Japan was determined to be the first, because of the message it sends at home and abro...

After long resisting calls for stronger measures to control the increasing number of new Covid-19 infections, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga instructed the government this week to prepare for a new state of emergency, which was officially announced on...

Japan’s government lifted the nationwide state of emergency on 25 May but some restrictions remain.  The government is now working to lift border restrictions in phases with business travellers allowed in first, and resumption of tourism later in the...

The world is grappling with the rapid spread of COVID-19 and Japan is no exception.  The World Health Organization has stated that Europe is now the world’s COVID-19 pandemic epicenter. But Japan is in a delicate position as the country is gearing up...

The extraordinary Diet session was ended on Wednesday, 26 June, as scheduled.  Now Prime Minister Abe focuses on the success of the G20 summit that is held today and tomorrow.  It is crucial for him and his administration to appeal his diplomatic ski...

The 198th ordinary Diet session was convened today.  Prime Minister Shinzo Abe gave a policy speech at the opening of the session, seeking understanding for his plan to raise the consumption tax from 8 percent to 10 percent in October. He also expres...