Not quite going up in flames.

When you get mad enough about something, I guess maybe arson is the only way to go, at least if you were this guy…

靖国神社:韓国籍の男が侵入容疑 放 火目的か

靖国神社（東京都千代田区）に侵入したとして、 警視庁公安部は２３日、韓国籍のカン・ヨンミン容 疑者（２３）を建造物侵入容疑で現行犯逮捕したと 発表した。逮捕直前、可燃性のトルエンとみられる 液体入りのペットボトルを拝殿に投げており、放火 目的とみて調べる。 発表によると、逮捕容疑は２２日午後５時 ごろ靖国神社の敷地内に侵入したとしてい る。調べに対し「（敷地内に）入ったのは 間違いない」と認めている。 捜査関係者によると、同９時ごろ、巡回 中の職員が南門近くのトイレ裏にいたカン 容疑者を発見。同容疑者は拝殿付近まで逃 げ、リュックサックから取り出したペット ボトルを投げた後、職員に取り押さえられ た。リュック内にはライターもあった。 同容疑者は２１日に成田空港から入国。 東京都中央区のホテルに宿泊していた。

http://mainichi.jp/select/news/m20130924k0000m040036000c.html

Yasukuni Shrine: South Korean male citizen accused of breaking and entering with purpose of arson

The Metropolitan Police Department’s Public Safety Division announced on the 23 rd that Korean national Yon Min Kan (23) had been arrested in the act of illegally entering Yasukuni Shrine (Tokyo’s Chiyoda Ward). Just prior to his arrest, he threw a liquid containing PET bottle of what appears to be highly flammable toluene on the main shrine, and a motive of arson is being investigated.

According to the announcement, at approximately 5 pm on the evening of the 22 nd , the suspect entered the premises of Yasukuni Shrine. According to the investigation, he admitted to entering the premises.

According to investigators, at around 9 pm, security guard out on patrol discovered Kan behind the restroom near the south gate. The suspect ran close to the main shrine, pulled out a PET bottle from his backpack, and threw it. He was then subdued by the guard. A lighter was found in the backpack.

The suspect arrived in Japan via Narita Airport on the 21 st . He was staying at a hotel in Tokyo’s Chuo Ward.

Yo, yogurt drinks cost more now

In a movement not perhaps shocking but at least against 22 years’ worth of practice, Yakult is going up in price. It still won’t set you back very much, $0.50 or so, but still. To add insult to injury, you’ll be paying more tax on it too, if Abe has his way. Is it time to take this to the streets?

ヤクルト、コスト増加を吸収できず 22年ぶり値上げ

2013/9/10 22:17

ヤクルト本社は10日、乳酸菌飲料「ヤク ルト」を11月４日に値上げすると発表し た。乳酸菌の量を３割増やし、標準的なヤ クルト１本（65ミリリットル）の希望小 売価格（税別）を現行の35円から５円 （14％）引き上げて40円にする。22年半 以上、価格が変わらず「物価の優等生」と もいわれたヤクルトだが、容器の原材料高 騰と円安でコストを吸収しきれなくなっ た。

国内では乳酸菌飲料や清涼飲料の価格競 争が激しい。宅配の販路を主力にするヤク ルトはスーパーなどでも値崩れしにくく、 これまでは価格を据え置いてきた。ただ、 中国など海外に事業を広げる中、「国内の 収益改善が大きな課題」（同社幹部）と なっていた。消費増税も控え、値上げを決 断した。

値上げの対象になるのは通常のヤクルト とカロリーを抑えた「カロリーハーフ」。 中身を変更し、商品名も「Ｎｅｗ （ニュー）ヤクルト」にする。売れ筋の５ 本パックは両商品ともに現行の175円か ら200円になる。同じ乳酸菌飲料のカルピ スは「コスト削減策を進めており、今のと ころ値上げの予定はない」としている。

10日の東京株式市場ではヤクルト本社の 株価が上昇。前日比310円（７％）高 の4625円で取引を終えた。ＳＭＢＣ日興証 券の沖平吉康アナリストは「値上げによる 販売数量減は限定的。営業利益を40億円強 押し上げそう」と分析する。市場では４月 に仏食品大手ダノンとの事業提携を解消し たことで「より株価を意識した経営にシフ トした」との見方も聞かれた。

http://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXNASDD100QE_Q3A910C1TJ0000/

Yakult, unable to absorb cost increases, raises prices for first time in 22 years

Yakult Co. announced on the 10 th that the price of fermented milk drink “Yakult” would go up on 11/4. The volume of fermenting bacteria has increased 30% so the per unit price of one bottle of Yakult (65 ml) (including tax) will rise from the current 35 yen by 5 yen (14%) to 40 yen. Often called “an honor student of commodities prices,” Yakult hadn’t changed price in more than 22 years but with the sharp increase in the cost of the materials for the container and the cheap yen, it wasn’t able to absorb costs any more.

Domestic cost competition among fermented milk drinks and other cold drinks is fierce. Yakult, who’s main market is in home delivery, has had difficulty with price collapse in supermarkets and has held prices constant to date. It is in the middle of expanding operations in overseas markets like China, and “domestic revenue improvement has become a big challenge” (according to company managers). In preparing for the consumption tax increase, they decided on the price increase.

The price increase effects normal Yakult as well as low-calorie “Calorie-Half.” The contents will be changed, and the product name will be changed to “New Yakult.” The popular 5 pack of the same products will be raised from the current 175 yen to 200 yen. Regarding the fermented milk drink “Calpis,” it was explained that “Cost reduction measures are continuing and there is no plan to raise prices at present.”

On the 10 th , Yakult Co.’s stock price rose on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. From the previous day’s average price of 310 yen, it finished the day trading at 462.5 yen (7% increase). SMBC Nikko Securities analyst Yoshiyasu Okihira said, “The loss in sales due to the price increase will be limited. Operating income will probably increase by 4 billion yen.” In the market, it terminated joint operations with French food maker Danon and some have said that “this was a shift in management to focus on costs.”

No tuna for you!

Don’t be too disappointed, but there will be less baby tuna for you to eat next year, if the WCPFC has anything to say about it.

未成魚漁獲、１５％ 以上削減＝太平洋ク ロマグロで新ルール －国際機関

太平洋クロマグロの漁業ルールを決める 国際機関「中西部太平洋まぐろ類委員会」 （ＷＣＰＦＣ）の小委員会は５日、福岡市 で、メジマグロなど産卵能力を持つ前の未 成魚（３歳以下）の漁獲量を２０１４年に ０２～０４年の平均値から１５％以上削減 することを各国に求める新ルール案をまと め、閉幕した。

１２月のＷＣＰＦＣ年次会 合で新ルールを正式決定する。 産卵能力を持つ３歳すぎの親魚の資源量 は１０年に２万２６０６トンまで減少し た。過去最低だった１９８４年の１万８５ ０２トンを下回る事態を防ぐため、小委員 会はクロマグロの資源回復計画を１４年９ 月までに策定し、１５年から実行する方針 でも合意した。１４年の漁獲量削減につい ては計画策定までの経過措置と位置付け、 １５年からは削減をさらに厳しくする。

日本は資源回復計画づくりを主導し、資 源量が５万トン近くへ回復するまで漁獲規 制を集中的に強化する内容としたい考え だ。
（2013/09/05-17:03

http://www.jiji.com/jc/c?g= eco_30&k=2013090500431

Catching immature fish, decrease by more than 15% - new rule for Pacific Bluefin Tuna from international organization

The international organization “Western Central Pacific Fisheries Commission” (WCPFC) subcommittee submitted a new rule on the fishing of Pacific Bluefin Tuna on the 5 th in Fukuoka, that decreases the permitted catch of immature tuna (less than 3 years old) for 2014 by a more than 15% less than the average catch in 2002-2004, to each country and concluded its meeting. The new rule will be formally decided at the December annual meeting of the WCPFC.

The catch of mature fish over 3 years old in 2010 decreased to 22,606 tons. In order to avoid approaching the condition of the smallest catch on record of 18,502 tons in 1984, the subcommittee will establish a Bluefin tuna resource recovery plan by September 2014 and plan to implement from 2015. The 2014 catch reduction is a transitional measure until the plan can be implemented and the reductions in 2015 will be more severe.

Japan is leading in efforts to develop the resource recovery plan, contemplating a plan that focuses on strengthening restrictions on fishing until resource levels recover to around 50,000 tons.

No giving up

I wonder if Korea ever gets tired of this?

韓国外務省、慰安婦請求権 で「遺憾」

2013.8.30 23:17

［韓国］ 韓国外務省は３０日、日本による朝鮮 半島統治時代の「慰安婦」に関する報道 官声明を発表し、韓国が要請している協 議に日本側が応じていないことに「深い 遺憾を表明する」とした。日本側に「歴 史的な過ちを勇気を持って直視」し、元 慰安婦の「痛みを癒やせる責任ある行動 を示すべきだ」と主張した。

声明は元慰安婦の対日請求権問題につ いて、韓国政府が措置を講じてこなかっ たことを「違憲」とした韓国憲法裁判決 から２年となるのを機に出された。この 間、韓国側は日本政府に対し、継続的に 協議に応じるよう要求してきたと強調し た。（ソウル 加藤達也）
http://sankei.jp.msn.com/world/news/130830/kor13083023180003-n1.htm

South Korean Foreign Ministry on claims of comfort women, “Regrettable”

The South Korean Foreign Ministry made a public statement regarding the period of Japanese rule over the Korean peninsula and the “comfort women,” saying that “it is extremely regrettable” that Japan would not respond to a request from South Korea for a discussion. It called on Japan to “have courage and take a hard look at its past mistakes” and that it “must take action to heal the pain” of the comfort women.

The statement was put out on the 2 nd anniversary of the South Korean Constitutional Court judgment that it was “unconstitutional” that the South Korean government had not taken measures concerning the problem of claims against Japan by former comfort women. During this time, South Korea has made continual requests for discussions with Japan.

Made a run for it

Another plucky North Korean has escaped to the south. This should be cause for celebration.

北朝鮮の住民が韓国亡命
2013.8.23 14:24 ［北朝鮮］

北朝鮮住民の男性が２３日未明、南北軍 事境界線に近い韓国北西部の喬桐島の海岸 に到着し、亡命の意思を示した。韓国軍関係者が明らかにした。

男性は何も持たずに泳いで喬桐島にたど り着いたとみられる。近くの島民に「北か ら来た」と伝え、島民が韓国当局に申告し た。韓国当局が男性の身柄を確保し、経緯 などを調べている。（共同）

http://sankei.jp.msn.com/world/news/130823/kor13082314260001-n1.htm

North Korean citizen seek asylum in South Korea

In the early morning of the 23 rd , a North Korean man arrived on the coast of the Jumun Island in the north-west of South Korea near the north-south military border and expressed a desire for asylum. This was reported by south Korean sources.

It appears that the man swam to Jumun, bringing nothing with him. He told island inhabitants, “I’ve come from the North” and they then reported it to the South Korean authorities. The authorities secured the man and are investigating the circumstances.

Making old life less awesome…

The guvmint is out to make your life more expensive, if you live in Japan and happen to be over the age of 70. Time to vote DPJ again?

社会保障改革の手 順、閣議決定…秋に 成立目指す

政府は２１日の閣議で、社会保障制度改 革の手順を定める「プログラム法案」の 「骨子」を決定した。社会保障制度改革国 民会議がまとめた報告書を基に医療、介 護、年金、少子化対策の改革の実施時期を 示したもので、秋の臨時国会での法案提 出、成立を目指す。

負担増となる改革には与野党に慎重意見 が根強いため、スケジュールに沿って個別 の法改正が進められるかが今後の焦点とな る。 「骨子」では、現在１割に据え置かれて いる７０～７４歳の医療費窓口負担を本来 の２割に戻すなど、医療分野の改革は「１ ７年度までをめど」に順次、実施するとし た。高所得者の介護サービスの自己負担引 き上げなど、介護分野の改革は「１５年度 をめど」とした。一連の改革の財源には消 費増税の税収を充てるとした。 （2013年8月22日01時28分 読売新聞）

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/politics/news/20130821-OYT1T01455.htm?from=navr

Social Security Reform Procedures, Cabinet Resolution….goal of passage by autumn

In a cabinet resolution on the 21st, the government outlined a “program bill” to establish the procedures for social security reform. Based on a report from the Social Security System Reform National Committee, it outlines a timeframe for reforming healthcare, nursing, pensions, and population growth measures and will be submitted at a special session of Parliament in the autumn aiming to pass during the same session.

Because there is strong current of caution across all parties at present towards the reform because it includes cost increases, whether or not individual revisions will proceed on schedule or not is going to be a focal point.

“The essentials” of the plan are that the percent of medical fees born by those in the 70-74 age range will return to 20% from the current 10% along with other medical field reforms “occurring by 2017.” The personal cost of nursing service for high income earners will be raised as well as other reforms in the nursing field “finishing in 2015.” The reform funding would come from the tax revenues from the consumption tax increase.

The TPP returns!!!

Sorry for the long delayed silence. Here's a random quotation from some guy involved in TPP negotiations. Good luck trying to figure out what he'd actually talking about.

日本の貢献策を表明 へ＝甘利ＴＰＰ担当 相—ブルネイ会合

鶴岡公二ＴＰＰ首席交渉官は１９日夜、
ブルネイで２２日に始まる環太平洋連携協定（ＴＰＰ）閣僚会合について、甘利明ＴＰＰ担当相が安倍内閣の交渉に対する決意と、年内妥結に向けた日本の貢献策を表明するとの見通しを示した。

その上で鶴岡氏は、関税撤廃・削減の２国間協議の本格化を念頭に「交渉は佳境に入っている」と強調。「交渉の成果を出し、日本の国益を最大限発揮したい」と述べた。

http://jp.wsj.com/article/JJ12365004687482003324619218159292901278344.html

Announcing Japan’s contribution plan – TPP representative Amari – Brunei meeting

Koji Tsuruoka , the TPP negotiator predicted regarding the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) committee meetings that begin on the 22 nd in Brunei, that Akira Amari, the minister over TPP negotiations would announce Prime Minister Abe’s decision on negotiations as well as Japan’s contribution plan towards a compromise this year.

Furthermore, Tsuruoka emphasized that “negotiations have entered a climax,” keeping in mind that intra-country negotiations are proceeding on tariff elimination/reduction. He also said, “We plan to produce negotiation results that demonstrate the maximum focus for Japan’s national interest.”

Busted again

These guys can’t get a break. And if they are guilty, nor should they. The message here is, if you commit financial crime in Japan, you’re going to get charged several times. Some might call this double jeopardy. It could also just be holding someone to account for all of their actions.

オリンパス損失隠しを指南 した会社社長ら３人起訴

オリンパスによる巨額の損失隠しを「指 南」し、受け取った報酬およそ２２億円を 海外に隠したとしてコンサルティング会社 の社長ら３人が東京地検特捜部に起訴され ました。

組織犯罪処罰法違反の罪で起訴されたの は、コンサルティング会社社長の横尾宣政 被告（５９）ら３人です。起訴状などによ りますと、横尾被告らはオリンパス側から 「粉飾決算」の手口を指南した報酬として 受け取ったおよそ２２億円を海外の複数の 銀行口座に送金し隠していたということで す。

３人はオリンパスによる巨額損失隠し事 件で旧経営陣の共犯として去年、金融商品 取引法違反の罪で逮捕・起訴されていまし た。（01日19:53）

http://news.tbs.co.jp/newseye/tbs_newseye5372154.html

Company president and 2 others charged with teaching how to hide losses at Olympus

The Tokyo Prosecutor’s office charged three men, including the president, at a consulting firm with concealing 2.2 billion yen in compensation overseas received for instructing provided in hiding large losses at Olympus.

Those charged with violations of the Organize Crime Punishment Law are consulting company president and Yoko Nobumasa and two others. According to the indictment, Nobumasa was compensated by Olympus for teaching fraudulent accounting techniques and then hid the approximately 2.2 billion yen in a number of overseas bank accounts.

The three were arrested and charged last year with violation of the Financial Instruments and Transactions Law last year for complicity in the hiding of large losses at Olympus by former managers.

Japan takes the leads on fuel cells!

Want to go green? You’re likely going to be going Japanese, if this article is to be believed. We’ll see how soon fuel cell cars actually go into production but here’s to hoping. Save gas for the rest of us!

燃料電池車、国際基準に日本案 国連 フォーラムが採択

【ジュネーブ共同】自動車の安全対策な どに関する国際基準を策定する国連欧州経 済委員会のフォーラムは２７日、ジュネー ブの国連欧州本部で会合を開き、燃料電池 車の安全基準案を全会一致で採択、基準の 大部分に日本の案が採用された。

燃料電池車は温室効果ガスをほとんど排 出せず、環境に優しい「究極のエコカー」 と注目されている。日本の基準採用で、国 内各メーカーは輸出が容易になり、国際的 なシェア獲得で優位に立てそうだ。

各社は２０１５年ごろに量産車の市販開 始を目指しており、世界販売台数は２５年 でも１３０万台程度の見通し。日本政府は 今月、「世界最速普及」方針を閣議決定し た。

http://www.sanin-chuo.co.jp/newspack/modules/news/article.php?storyid=1218072009

Fuel cell cars, UN forum adopts Japanese proposal on international standards

A UN Europe Economic Committee forum met at the UN’s European headquarters in Geneva on the 27 th to discuss the authoring of international standards on automobile safety. They unanimously adopted safety guidelines on fuel cell cars, of which the large part was based on a Japanese proposal.

Fuel cell cars emit almost no gasses that cause global warming and are known as the “ultimate ecocar” in terms of being kind to the environment. With Japan’s standards being adopted, it seems likely that domestic manufacturers will have an easy time exporting and gain a preeminent share of global markets.

All companies are aiming to bring mass production cars to market by 2015 and sales by 2025 are projected to be 1.3 million vehicles. The Japanese government adopted a policy aiming for “fastest spread in the world” this month.

Let’s make it a defense triangle!

Japan and the UK, long in military alliances with the United States, are finally sealing their own deal on the subject. It’s not exactly a love triangle, more like the proverbial cord of three strands that’s not easily broken…or something. Anyway, at the very least, we should see some new chemical protective gear out of the agreement. Woohoo!

日英、防衛装備の共 同開発加速 首脳会 談、情報保護協定で 合意

【ベルファスト共同】

安倍晋三首相は１ ７日昼（日本時間１７日夜）、英国のキャ メロン首相と北アイルランドのエニスキレ ンで会談した。防衛装備品の共同開発を加 速させるため、相互に技術の流出防止を図 る協定を締結することで一致。軍事面を含 む機密情報の交換を可能にする両国間の 「情報保護協定」締結でも正式合意した。

双方はそれぞれ米国と同盟関係にあり、 安全保障面での連携を強める狙いがある。

防衛装備品の共同開発に関する協定によ り、日英間で既に具体化している化学防護 服の共同開発が本格化する

http://www.47news.jp/CN/201306/CN2013061701002275.html

Japan and the UK sign agreement to accelerate joint development of defense equipment through information protection at leadership meeting.

Prime Minister Abe Shinzo met with the UK’s Prime Minister Cameron in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland. They agreed to sign an agreement aimed at preventing leaks of technology in order to accelerate joint defense equipment development. As such, they formally concurred on the establishment of an “Information Protection Agreement” between the two countries, which will make possible the exchange of secret information, including of a military nature.

Both have alliances with the United States and are aiming to increase their links in the area of national security.

Based on the agreement for joint development of defensive equipment, the existing joint development of a chemical protective suit will get fully up to speed.

KDDI will take your iPhone

KDDI is finally trying make it right for those iPhone buyers who were deceived by their claims about massive 4G coverage that later proved inaccurate, at best.

So, if you hate your iPhone 5 because it doesn't get 4G signal in the boonies outside of Gifu, today, your respite g is announced.

KＤＤＩ、ｉＰｈｏｎｅ５下取り検討 広告誤記で

2013/6/10 21:00 ＫＤＤＩ（ａｕ）は10日、2012年９ ～12月にデータ通信エリアの広告に誤記が あった問題で、米アップル製スマートフォ ン（スマホ）「ｉＰｈｏｎｅ（アイフォー ン）５」の下取りを検討していることを明 らかにした。高速データ通信「ＬＴＥ」の 障害対策に加え、新たな収益圧迫要因とな りそうだ。

同日、ＫＤＤＩの田中孝司社長が記者団 に表明した。誤記は今年３月末時点でｉＰ ｈｏｎｅ５を使って、最大毎秒75メガ（メ ガは100万）ビットのＬＴＥが利用できる 地域を実際よりも広く表示していた。同社 が算出した実人口カバー率では96％と表記 したが、実際は14％にとどまるなど大きな 差があった。

同社は誤記を信じて端末を購入したユー ザーへの対応策が必要と判断した。下取り 額や時期は未定という。同端末の販売では 通常、端末代金を２年間にわたり毎月の利 用料金から割り引いている。設定期間の終 了前に下取りすれば、ＫＤＤＩにとってコ スト負担増は免れない。

同社は先月末に相次いで発生したＬＴＥ の通信障害対策として、今年度中に300億 円をかけてバックアップ設備を増強するこ とを同日、正式発表した。通信障害で影響 を受けたユーザーに対して７月以降 に700円を請求額から差し引くことも決め た。 「ＬＴＥ基盤強化対策本部」を10日付で 新設し、顧客の視点に立った情報発信や通 信網の安定に努める考え。携帯電話会社の 信用に直結する問題が相次ぎ発生したこと でユーザーをどうつなぎ留めるかが重い課 題となりそうだ。

http://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXNASDD100O4_Q3A610C1TJ2000/

KDDI considering iPhone5 trade-ins due to advertising error

On the 10 th , KDDI(au) revealed that it is considering trade-ins for Apple iPhone5s due to an error in the advertisement for the data coverage area reported between September and December 2012. In addition to being a measure to prevent data issues in the high-speed mobile data service (LTE), it seems likely that this will put new pressure on its revenues.

KDDI’s president, Kouji Tanaka, announced this at a press conference. The incorrect advertisement occurred through March of this year and said that using the iPhone5, the area covered by the maximum of 75 MB per second LTE service was larger than it was in reality. The company calculated that it’s service covered 96% of inhabited areas when in reality it hovered around 14%.

KDDI decided that this was a necessary measure for users who had purchased the device believing the advertisement. The trade-in value and period have yet to be determined. Normally, when the device is sold, its cost is discounted from the monthly usage fees charged over a two year period. If a device is traded in before that fixed period ends, it becomes an inescapable cost increase for KDDI.

KDDI also formally announced a plan to spend 30 billion yen to strengthen its back-up infrastructure as a countermeasure to data transmission issues in its LTE network. It also decided to discount the bills of users impacted by the LTE network issues by 700 yen starting in July.

It established an “LTE Network Resilliency Group” on the 10 th , with the aim of stabilizing the data network from a customer’s perspective. It seems that how to connect to users who’s trust in mobile phone companies has been hit by multiple problems lately has become a major issue.

Nukes cost too much

I’m just saying. I’m glad I don’t operate any nuclear reactors or I might get hit with a bill like the below.

原発廃炉、上限４０ 年超は３基／費用不 足、最大は美浜１号

2013/06/07 19:34

原発の廃炉に備えて電力会社が積み立て なければならない費用が、運転期間の上限 の４０年を超えた３基でも不足しているこ とが７日、分かった。４０年超で最も不足 額が大きいのは、関西電力美浜原発１号機 の９４億円。原発の稼働率が想定を下回っ たためで、見通しの甘さが露呈した形だ。

経済産業省資源エネルギー庁が７日の自 民党部会に提出した資料で判明。国内の５ ０基について、２０１３年度に廃炉を決定 する場合を試算した。

営業運転開始から４０年超は、美浜１、 ２号機と日本原子力発電敦賀１号機の計３ 基。

http://www.shikoku-np.co.jp/national/science_environmental/20130607000538

Nuclear Reactor decommissioning, 3 have crossed the 40 year maximum that lack funds, with the largest being Mihama #1

It was reported on the 7 th that 3 reactors who have exceeded the 40 year operating lifespan lack the funds required to be saved in preparation for decommissioning. The reactor that has exceeded the 40 year limit with the largest shortfall is Kansai Electric’s Mihama #1 with 9.4 billion yen. The optimism of the forecasted amount was revealed through the reactor’s operating ratio being lower than projections.

It was revealed in a report by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s Energy and Natural Resources Department to the LDP section. It looked at the country’s 50 reactors and estimated for those scheduled for decommissioning in 2013.

The three reactors that have passed their 40 year operating lifespan are the Mihama #1 and #2 reactors and Japan Nuclear Power’s Atsuga #1 reactor.

Taking it old-school

The Japan Restoration Party, no stranger to perhaps anachronistic ideas, has nominated a former pro- wrestler for elections for the House of Councillors set for this summer. Maybe a flying powerbomb from the upper rope is what this Parliament needs to get things moving again.

維新の会:アントニオ 猪木氏を擁立へ 参 院選比例代表

日本維新の会は４日、夏の参院選比例代表に元参院議員で元プロレスラーのアントニオ猪木氏（７０）＝本名・猪木寛至＝を擁立する方針を決めた。猪木氏は５日、記者会見し、立候補を発表する。猪木氏は１９８９年、スポーツ平和党から参院選に出馬し初当選。２期目を目指した９５年の参院選で落選した。

Japan Restoration Party: Nominates Inoki Antonio as proportionally selected representative in Upper House elections

The Japan Restoration Party announced on the 4 th that it would nominate former Upper House representative and pro-wrestler Inoki Antonio (70), real name Inoki Kanji, of as a proportionally elected representative for this summer’s Upper House elections. Inoki will announce his candidacy on the 5 th at an interview. Inoki first ran for the Upper house under the Sports Peace Party in 1989. He lost his seat while running for a second term in the 1995 election.

After another break, time to rock the boat!

北朝鮮、拿捕した中 国漁船を解放 外交 問題化避ける

【北京＝林望】

中国外務省の洪磊副報道 局長は２１日の定例会見で、北朝鮮当局に 拿捕（だほ）されていた中国漁船が同日未 明、解放されたことを明らかにした。北朝 鮮側が要求した６０万元（約１千万円）は 支払われなかったという。中朝双方が外交 問題化するのを避け、決着を図ったとみら れる。 すべての船員が解放され、漁船はすでに 中国側の海域に戻り、操業を再開したとい う。洪副局長は「北朝鮮側が事件について 全面的な調査を行い、説明することを望 む」と述べ、再発防止を求めた。

漁船は５日、操業中に北朝鮮の巡視船に 拿捕された。現場は漁業権などを巡って中 朝間で争いのある海域とみられ、北朝鮮側 は「罰金」の支払いを要求。１０日、船主 からの連絡を受けた中国外務省が北朝鮮政 府に解放を求めていた。

北朝鮮のミサイル発射や核開発を巡る緊 張が続く中、中朝が新たな火種を抱えるこ とを避けることで一致したとの見方が強 い。

http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0521/TKY201305210422.html

North Korea releases seized Chinese fishing boat –avoids issue becoming an diplomatic incident

Hong Lei, deputy public relations chief for the Chinese Foreign Ministry reported at his regularly scheduled interview on the 21 st that the North Korean authorities released a Chinese fishing boat it had seized early in the same morning. The 600,000 yuan (approximately 1 million yen) that the North Koreans had reportedly demanded was not paid. It appears that both sides reached this resolution in order to avoid it becoming a diplomatic incident.

He said that all of the boat’s crew were released and the ship had already returned to Chinese waters and had resumed operations. Lei said, “I hope that North Korea will conduct a full investigation and provide an explanation,” seeking to prevent a reoccurrence.

The ship was seized by a North Korean patrol vessel on the 5 th . It appears that the ship was fishing in waters that have fishing rights disputed by both China and North Korea. The North Koreans demanded payment of a “fine.” On the 10 th , the Chinese Foreign Ministry received contact from the vessel’s owner and then sought its release from the North Korean government.

In the midst of continued tensions with North Korea over its missile firings and nuclear development, it seems quite likely that China and Korea were agreed in seeking to avoid adding more fuel to the fire.

No cheating the sun!

Japan has had its day in WTO court.  I don’t think that means anything for competing with China on the creation of solar panels, but at least the Canadians can no longer unfairly favor their own when it comes to the sale of green power generating components.

カナダとの太陽光紛争、日本勝訴　ＷＴＯで確定
2013.5.7 01:30
　【ジュネーブ＝共同】カナダ・オンタリオ州が太陽光発電などで地元企業を優遇しているのは世界貿易機関（ＷＴＯ）協定に違反するとして、日本と欧 州連合（ＥＵ）が訴えていた通商紛争で、ＷＴＯ紛争処理手続きの「最終審」に当たる上級委員会は６日、日本とＥＵの主張をほぼ支持する報告書を公表した。
　「１審」にあたる昨年１２月の紛争処理小委員会（パネル）に続く日本の勝訴で、事実認定は確定する。
　 日本は２０１０年９月、太陽光パネルなどの輸出で、日本企業が不利な扱いを受けているとしてＷＴＯに提訴。その後、オンタリオ州は地元の部品などの使用率 をさらに引き上げた。このため日本はＷＴＯのパネル設置を要請し、ＥＵも続いた。昨年１２月には、パネルが日本、ＥＵの主張をほぼ認める最終報告書を発 表。カナダ側は上訴し、日本側も上訴していた。

http://sankei.jp.msn.com/economy/news/130507/biz13050701330000-n1.htm

Japan wins in WTO decision in dispute over solar power with Canada
 
The World Trade Organization’s (WTO) appeals committee released its “final ruling” paper in dispute resolution proceedings largely supporting Japan and the European Union’s (EU) position in a trade dispute that Ontario, Canada violated the WTO’s charter in giving preferential treatment to local companies in the solar power industry.

It confirms the facts acknowledged in “First Ruling” in December 2012 of the Dispute Resolution Committee where Japan won.
 
In September 201, Japan submitted a complaint to the WTO claiming that its companies that export solar panels had been unfairly treated.  After this, the province of Ontario raised the required percentage of parts produced locally to be used used. Because of this, Japan requested that the WTO establish a panel to review and the EU joined in the request.  In December of last year, the panel issued a final ruling largely concurring with the assertions of Japan and the EU.  Canada and Japan appealed.

Talking nukes with the Turks

Prime Minister Abe is in Turkey for the last visit of his Middle East tour, and the negotiations all sound great on paper. Still, wondering if Japan is the best country to be talking about exporting nuclear power right now…

原発受注、政府間合意へ 日本トルコ 首脳会談
2013/5/3 20:34
【アンカラ＝佐藤賢】安倍晋三首相は３ 日、トルコのアンカラでエルドアン首相と 会談した。黒海沿岸シノプでの原子力発電 所の建設を巡りトルコ政府が日本に優先交 渉権を与えることで合意する。両政府は日 本の原発輸出を可能にする原子力協定と、 シノプに原発を建設する土地をトルコが無 償で日本側に提供することなど政府間協力 を定めた協定に調印する。

原発建設に関する政府間合意を結ぶこと で、三菱重工業と仏アレバ連合の受注が事 実上確定する。東京電力福島第１原発事故 の後、日本勢による初の海外受注案件で、 日本の原発輸出に弾みがつきそうだ。総事 業費は２兆円規模。出力は４基で450万キ ロワット程度となる見通しだ。2023年まで に第１号機の稼働を目指す。

原子力協定は核の不拡散や原発の安全利 用と２国間で確認し、原発輸出の前提とな る。トルコの原発計画は日中韓とカナダの メーカーが受注を目指して激しく競ってき たが、技術力や信頼性、価格などで日本勢 の評価が上回った。

両首相は両国関係を「戦略的パートナー シップ」に格上げする共同宣言に署 名。(1)インフラ整備や医療、農業、人工衛 星打ち上げの協力(2)次官級協議の枠組みを 格上げし、外相の定期協議を開催(3)防衛当 局間の協議促進――を盛り込んだ。

共同研究を進めている経済連携協定（Ｅ ＰＡ）の交渉開始に向けた検討推進や、社 会保障協定の交渉促進で一致。北朝鮮問題 や中東情勢に関する連携も申し合わせる。 日本の首相のトルコ訪問は06年１月の小 泉純一郎氏以来、約７年ぶり。

http://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXNASFS0301N_T00C13A5MM8000/? dg=1
Agreement between governments on accepting orders for nuclear power at Japan-Turkey leadership meeting

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met with Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan in Ankara, Turkey on the 3 rd . The Turkish government agreed to give priority negotiating rights to Japan for the construction of a nuclear power plant at Sinop on the shore of the Black Sea. Both governments signed an agreement on cooperation with regard to a further agreement on Japan exporting nuclear technology as well as Turkey offering land for free in Sinop for the construction site of the nuclear power plant.

With regard to the agreement on construction of the nuclear power plant, a joint venture of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and French company Areva will receive the orders. After the accident at Tepco’s Fukushima Daiichi reactor, this is the first overseas order for Japanese nuclear technology and it seems like Japanese nuclear exports might begin to gain momentum. The total cost of construction will be around 2 trillion yen. The generating capacity with 4 units is estimated to be 4,500,000 kilowatts. The first reactor is planned to come online in 2023.

The agreement on nuclear power confirmed between the two countries focuses on nuclear non-proliferation and safety in nuclear power as prerequisites for the export of nuclear technology. There was fierce competition among Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Canadian nuclear power makers for orders in Turkey’s nuclear power program but the Japanese were judged to be the best in terms of technology, reliability, and cost. The leaders issued a joint statement promoting relations between their countries to a “Strategic Partnership.” 3 points were included: (1) Cooperation on infrastructure, medicine, agriculture, and space technology; (2) upgrade the structure of ministerial discussions to begin regular foreign minister discussions; and (3) advance discussions between both countries’ militaries.

They also agreed to continue discussions on beginning negotiations on an economic partnership agreement and advance discussions on joint social security discussions. They also want to continue cooperation on the North Korean problem and the situation in the Middle East. Abe's visit to Turkey is the first by a Japanese prime minister since Koizumi visited in 2006.

At long last, we’re back!

So, I apologize for the long silence on the article translation front. But, all that said, we’re back, and it appears that nothing has changed at all while I was away. China is still saber-rattling over the Senkakus in case you were wondering. See below for more on the ongoing dispute.

中国海軍艦艇が尖閣周辺を航 行 下関条約締結日に合わ せ？ 中国メディアを使い宣 伝

2013.4.17 20:32

沖縄本島と宮古島の間を通過する中国海軍 のルーヤン級ミサイル駆逐艦＝１６日（防 衛省統合幕僚監部提供） 【北京＝川越一】中国国営新華社通信な どは１７日、人民解放軍海軍の南海艦隊に 所属するミサイル駆逐艦などが同日午前、 尖閣諸島（沖縄県石垣市）周辺海域を航行 したと報じた。この日は、１１８年前の１ ８９５年に日清戦争の下関条約が締結され た日。同諸島の「主権」を主張するため意 図的に航行し、中国メディアを使い宣伝し た可能性が高い。 航行したのは、ミサイル駆逐艦「蘭州」 とミサイルフリゲート艦「衡水」から成る 遠洋訓練編隊。

西太平洋海域で遠洋攻防演 習や臨検拿捕（だほ）訓練などをした後、 １６日夜に宮古海峡を通過し、尖閣周辺海 域に入ったとしている。 訓練には中国メディアが同行。編隊の指 揮官は巡航を「完全に正当かつ合法で非難 の余地はない」と強調した。新華社通信 は、海軍の北海艦隊と東海艦隊の艦艇編隊 もそれぞれ、以前に同海域を航行したとし ている。

中国政府は、下関条約により尖閣諸島を 日本に譲り渡したと主張している。中国メ ディアは同条約を「侵略者が押し付けた最 も辛辣な不平等条約」と表現。中国の専門 家は「条約締結日は中華民族の屈辱の日 だ」と反日感情を刺激している。中国の海 軍史家は「このような巡航は今後、常態化 するだろう。わが国が領海の主権を公に示 す有効な行動だ」と分析している。

http://sankei.jp.msn.com/world/news/130417/chn13041720330006-n1.htm

Is a Chinese naval incursion into the Senkaku territory on the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Shimonoseki a coincidence? Chinese media reports

The Chinese state-run Xinhua news agency and other outlets reported on the 17 th that a missile patrol boat from the People’s Liberation Navy’s South Sea group sailed into the area around the Senkaku Islands. On this day 118 years ago, the Treaty of Shimonoseki was signed, ending the 1895 Sino-Japanese War. It is quite likely that Chinese media are intentionally using this as propaganda and that it is a move to assert Chinese sovereignty over the islands.

The vessels involved are the missile patrol boat “Lanzhou” and missile frigate “Hengshui” of the deep-sea training group. This occurred after they concluded deep sea defensive and inspect & seize exercises, crossed the Miyako Strait, and then entered into the waters off the Senkakus.

Chinese media reported it as training operations. The commander of the flotilla asserted, “This is completely appropriate and legal and there is no room for criticism.” Xinhau also reported that ships from the North Sea and East Sea Groups also traversed the same area previously.

The Chinese government claims that it ceded the Senkaku Islands to Japan in the Treaty of Shimonoseki. The Chinese media labeled this treaty a “most bitter and unfair treaty forced on us by the invader.” Chinese experts have tried to stir up anti-Japan sentiment by saying, “The treaty anniversary day is a day of disgrace to the Chinese people.” A Chinese naval historian gave his analysis saying, “This kind of patrolling will become normal in the future. It’s the action of our country publicly demonstrating its historic territorial rights.”

Give us a pope!

Well, based on historical standards, they haven’t gotten very far in their voting yet, so I suppose I will be patient for the moment.

コンクラーベ、３回目投票でも新法王 決まらず
【ローマ＝末続哲也】

ベネディクト１６ 世の後継ローマ法王を選ぶ会議「コンク ラーベ」は、１２日の１回目投票に続き、 ２日目となる１３日午前（日本時間同 夜）、２～３回目の投票がバチカンのシス ティナ礼拝堂で行われた。 選出を担う８０歳未満の枢機卿１１５人 の３分の２の票（７７票）を得た者はな く、新法王は決まっていない。１３日夕（ 日本時間１４日未明）にも、２回の投票が 予定されている。 ３回目の投票終了後の１３日昼前、礼拝 堂の煙突からは午前中の２回の投票で「新 法王は未決定」に終わったことを外部に知 らせる黒い煙が上がった。「決定」の場合 は白い煙が上がる。 法王が１３日中に決まらない場合、１４ 日も午前２回、午後２回の投票を行う。２ ００５年の前回は計４回、１９７８年の 前々回は計８回の投票で決まった。 （2013年3月13日21時48分 読売新聞）

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/world/news/20130313-OYT1T01190.htm?from=ylist

Conclave casts third vote without electing pope

The “Conclave,” a gathering to select a successor pope to Benedict 16 th , held its first vote on the 12 th , and now in its second day, held the second and third votes on the morning of the 13 th (evening Japan time) at the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican.

A new pope was not selected, since no individual gained 2/3 of the votes of the 115 cardinals under the age of 80 (77 votes). Another vote is scheduled for the evening of the 13 th (morning of the 14 th Japan time).

Black smoke rose from the chimney of the chapel on the morning of the conclusion of the third vote on the 13 th , signaling the 2 nd vote had ended with no pope selected. In the event of a selection, white smoke will appear.

If no pope is selected on the 13 th , there will be two more votes on the morning of the 14 th . 2 votes will also happen in the afternoon. In the previous selection in 2005, approximately 4 votes happened, and in 1978, there were approximately 8 votes before a decision was reached.

Good news for bankers!

Or at least the ones who have been nominated to serve at the Bank of Japan. Nothing to get too excited about I suppose.

日銀人事:国会同意へ…黒田 総裁案、民主が賛成決定

民主党は１２日、次期日銀総裁に黒田東 彦（はるひこ）アジア開発銀行総裁、日銀 副総裁に中曽（なかそ）宏日銀理事を充て る政府案に賛成することを正式決定し た。もう一人の副総裁候補の岩田規久男学 習院大教授には反対する。ただ、岩田氏は みんなの党と日本維新の会、新党改革が賛 成する方針のため、野党が多数を占める 参院を含めて国会同意が得られる見通し。 ３人の衆参両院での同意は確実な情勢だ。 http://mainichi.jp/select/news/m20130313k0000m010061000c.html

Bank of Japan appointment: Towards Parliamentary Approval…DPJ approves Kuroda presidential nomination

On the 12th, the Democratic Party of Japan formally approves the government proposal nominating Haruhiko Kuroda, current president of the Asia Development Bank, as the next president of the Bank of Japan (BoJ) along with BoJ director Hiroshi Nakao as BoJ vice-president. The DPJ opposes one other vice-presidential nominee, Gakushuin University professor Kikuo Iwata. That said, since Iwata enjoys the support of other opposition parties, including Everybody’s Party, the Japan Restoration Party, and the New Reform Party, he is expected to gain Parliamentary approval by a majority in the lower house. The three individuals’ approval is certain in both houses at this point.

Take me out to the ball game…

Take me out to the crowd! There weren’t too many happy cracker jacks as Japan lost its first game in the World Baseball Classic yesterday. Let’s hope they can step it up!

日本、キューバに敗 れ２位＝２次Ｒ初戦 は台湾と【ＷＢＣ】

野球の国・地域別対抗戦、ワールド・ ベースボール・クラシック（ＷＢＣ）は６ 日、福岡市のヤフオクドームで１次ラウン ドＡ組最後の１試合が行われ、日本は キューバに３－６で敗れ、Ａ組２位となっ た。
８日の２次ラウンド１組１回戦では台 湾（Ｂ組１位）と対戦する。 日本は先発の大隣（ソフトバンク）が三 回先頭のトマスに左中間へソロ本塁打を浴 びた。田中（楽天）、沢村（巨人）も失点 し、八回には今村（広島）が３ランを打た れた。内川（ソフトバンク）が腰の違和感 のため先発メンバーから外れた打線は、八 回まで無得点と精彩を欠いた。
Ａ組１位となったキューバは８日にオラ ンダ（Ｂ組２位）と顔を合わせる。 （2013/03/06-22:57）
http://www.jiji.com/jc/c?g= spo_30&k=2013030601057

Japan loses to Cuba in 2 nd place – 2 nd round opener against Taiwan [WBC]

In baseball’s country/regional competition, the World Baseball Classic (WBC), the last game in A-group’s first round was held on the 6 th at Fukuoka City’s Yafuoka Dome and Japan lost to Cuba 6-3, falling to 2 nd place in A group. It next plays Taiwan (B-group #1) in the 2 nd round, Group 1, Game 1.

Japan’s starter Oorin (Softbank) gave up a homerun to center-left field to Thomas to lead off the third inning. Tanaka (Rakuten), Sawamura (Giants) also were charged points. In the 8 th , Imamura (Hiroshima) scored the 3 rd run. Uchikawa (Softbank) had discomfort in his lower back and was held from the starting line-up and lost his brilliance with no points until the 8 th inning.

A Group #1 Cuba faces Holland (B Group #2) on the 8 th .

It’s mine!

Amidst all the drama around appointing a new head of the Bank of Japan, there’s another potential conflict brewing over the next head of the Asian Development Bank, which has been led by a Japanese since the bank’s inception. It seems likely that Japan is determined to hold on to the top spot. Still, no telling if maybe North Korea has a candidate they think could fit the bill.

ＡＤＢ総裁、日本の 独占続くか＝黒田氏 が辞任表明

日銀総裁候補となった黒田東彦アジア開 発銀行（ＡＤＢ）総裁は２８日、３月１８ 日付で辞任する意向を表明した。これを 受け、麻生太郎財務相は次期ＡＤＢ総裁に ついて「最適任の人物を日本から速やかに 推薦したい」との談話を発表。１９６６年 のＡＤＢ設立以来、日本が８代にわたり 独占してきた総裁ポストの確保に全力を挙 げるが、他の加盟国が対抗馬を立てる可能 性もあり、予断を許さない。

政府は黒田氏の後任に、財務省の国際金 融部門の事務方トップの財務官を務める中 尾武彦氏を擁立する方針。

http://jp.wsj.com/article/JJ1093955653897271446591881855 4341503050628.html

Will Japan continue its monopoly on the ADB Presidency? -- Kuroda announced retirement

President of the Asia Development Bank (ADB) Haruhiko Kuroda, who has been nominated for the presidency of the Bank of Japan, announced on the 28 th that he will resign effective March 18 th . Upon this news, Finance Minister Taro Aso said that “I would like to quickly propose the most qualified candidate from Japan” for the role of next ADB president. Since the establishment of the ADB in 1966, Japan has continued to exert all its strength to dominated the presidential post through 8 terms, but is possible that other member states may offer an alternative candidate but it’s impossible to predict.

The administration is intending to nominate Takehiko Nakao who serves as the Vice Minister of Finance for International Affairs in the Finance Ministry as successor to Kuroda.

Let’s sit down and talk about it

So there’s a lot of discussion going on in politics in the LDP these days. Anyone surprised? It’s all about what items Japan will hold out as non-negotiables in the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations that Prime Minister Abe is eager to kick off. It will be curious to see what comes out and how much sway Japan’s agriculture lobby has with the politicians. If like past history, that’s a lot.

自民、ＴＰＰ交渉参 加を早くも容認＝安 倍首相は正式表明先 送り

自民党の外交・経済連携調査会は２７ 日、環太平洋連携協定（ＴＰＰ）に関する 決議を採択し、交渉参加を早くも容認し た。決議は反対派の主張を踏まえ「守るべ き国益」を列挙したが、あくまで言い値。 「聖域は農産物」との本音も漏れる。一 方、交渉参加を急ぐ安倍晋三首相は、正式 表明を当初想定より遅らせ、反対派に配慮 を示した。
「守るべき国益を列記した。政府は重く 受け止めていただきたい」。同調査会の会 合終了後、衛藤征士郎会長は記者団にこう 強調した。
決議はコメ、麦、牛肉などの農産物のほ か、国民皆保険制度の維持、混合診療全面 解禁の阻止など６項目を列挙。反対派の牙 城である「ＴＰＰ参加の即時撤回を求める 会」（森山裕会長）の２１日の決議をその まま引き写したものだ。調査会の会合で は、推進派から「交渉の手足を縛ってはい けない」（川口順子元外相）と異論も出た が、多数を占める反対派の声にかき消され た。
執行部が反対派の主張を丸ごと決議に取 り入れたのは、党所属議員が参加表明後に 地元で支持者を説得する材料をあらかじめ 用意する必要があると判断したためだ。石破茂幹事長は調査会で「全ての議員が選挙 区で説明がつかないような事態には絶対に しない」と強調した もっとも、決議に関わった党幹部は「交 渉事だからハードルは高めにした。絶対守 らなければならないのは農産物だ」と本音 を明かす。ＴＰＰ交渉で最後まで関税撤廃 の例外扱いを求めるのは、決議に明記した コメ、麦、牛肉、乳製品、砂糖の５品目が 中心になるとみられる。 一方、首相は２７日、決議の報告に首相 官邸を訪れた衛藤氏に「時間を取ってゆっ くり話をしましょう。相当な人数でも構い ませんよ」と、反対派の主張にじっくりと 耳を傾ける姿勢を示した。 首相は交渉参加に前のめりだったが、 ここにきて正式表明のタイミングを慎重に 計り始めた。政府関係者は「帰国後すぐ表 明するか、施政方針演説で表明するシナ リオもあったが、反対派の立場を考えてス ローダウンした」と明かす。首相としては 「何を聖域とするか冷静に議論したい」（ 周辺）として、党側と協議しながら対象 品目を絞り込みたい考えだ。
（2013/02/27-20:55）

http://www.jiji.com/jc/c?g= pol_30&k=2013022700971

LDP gives speedy approval to entering TPP negotiations – Prime Minister Abe postpones formal announcement

The Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) Diplomacy and Economic Policy group met on the 27 th and quickly adopted a resolution concerning the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), approving the start of negotiations. The resolution lists “national interests that must be protected” at all cost as the price exacted by those opposing it. It also reveals its true belief that “agriculture is sacred.” On the other hand, Prime Minister Abe Shinzo who is eager to enter negotiations, postponed a formal announcement later than first expected in consideration of the opposition.

Committee Chairman Seishiro Eto said after the meeting, “The national interests that must be protected are listed. We want the administration to respect these.” The resolution lists agriculture products like rice, wheat, and beef, maintenance of the national health insurance system, and obstacles to complete deregulation of integrated treatment among 6 categories. This list was copied from the resolution submitted on the 21 st by the opposition group, “Organization for immediate withdrawal from TPP participation” (leader Horishi Moriyama). At the meeting of the policy committee, the group pushing for the change (lead by former foreign minister Yoriko Kawaguchi) countered that “We must not slow down negotiations” but this was shouted down by the majority voice from the opposition.

The executives included the opposition’s argument in its entirety because it was judged necessary as a means of suading the suppporters back home for party lawmakers. Chief Party Secretary Shigeru Ishiba said at the committee meeting, “We can’t cause a situation where the explanation won’t be accepted in our legislators’ districts.” Party leadership showed their true feelings on the resolution, stating “It’s a negotiation so we have raised an additional hurdle. The one thing we must protect is agriculture.” It appears that the 5 items enumerated in the resolution, rice, wheat, beef, dairy products, and sugar, are the true focus that will be pursued for exclusion from tariff reductions in TPP negotiations. On the one hand, the PM showed a willingness to hear the opposition’s point of view on the 27 th when Eto visited the Prime Minsiter’s office, “Let’s take some time to talk about this. It doesn’t matter if it involved a number of people.” The PM is very to pursue negotiations but is very carefully considering the timing of a formal announcement. According to government sources, “Whether it will be immediately upon his return or in an administrative policy speech, he is slowing down the announcement timing to hear the opposition out.” The PM wants to “calmly discuss what our non-negotiables are” and narrow down the the items included in that list.