Despite Japan's ability to keep COVID-19's spread in check, few countries have looked to the Abe administration as an example to follow.

This is the month when students find out whether months or even years of exam preparation have finally paid off or not.

Looking ahead, what Japan needs is to capitalize on that stability and take risks to address the very real longer-term challenges.

Japan could represent an alternative path for growth and defining economic success.

As the competition for the 92nd annual Oscar foreign film shortlist heats up, the rivalry between Japan and South Korea will no doubt intensify in the world of cinema as well.

As TICAD expands and deepens Japan's interests in Africa, the conference should also highlight what lessons African countries can offer to industrialized countries when it comes to overcoming comparative disadvantages and demonstrating the power of leadership.

Washington's mediation may provide a temporary fix, but not a long-term resolution to the core problems plaguing Japan-South Korea ties.

A lack of curiosity, reluctance to take risks and unwillingness to understand different values are hardly winning traits for anyone to succeed in the fiercely competitive and borderless global market.

The need to quickly improve diplomatic, economic and security relations between Tokyo and Seoul are all too clear.