No clear front-runner and factions divided on eve of LDP leadership campaign
The race is turning out to be more than simply an election to choose the country’s next leader — it's become a contest that could shift power dynamics within the ruling party.
Suga to step down after tumultuous year in office
The prime minister has said that he wants to spend his remaining time in office focusing on the government's COVID-19 response.
LDP leadership fight intensifies as Suga rival outlines COVID-19 plans
The former foreign minister backs enhanced PCR testing and electronic "vaccine passports," among other measures, while Suga is looking to tap the popularity of Japan's environment minister.
U.S. climate envoy John Kerry visits Tokyo to build momentum for U.N. summit
Kerry's stop in the capital, where he met with senior Japanese politicians, is part of a worldwide effort to raise ambitions ahead of the meeting in Glasgow.
Japan protests after U.S. Marines dump toxic water in Okinawa sewer
The government has filed a strong protest with U.S. forces based in Okinawa Prefecture for dumping treated water containing dangerous chemicals into the local sewage system.
Kerry is expected to hold talks with Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi.
Three Cabinet members visit war-linked Yasukuni Shrine, Suga sends offering
Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, education minister Koichi Hagiuda and World Expo minister Shinji Inoue separately went to Yasukuni Shrine in central Tokyo
From LDP 'prince' to punchline: What happened to Shinjiro Koizumi?
In addition to being regularly lampooned on social media, the environment minister has struggled to maintain his influence amid COVID-19 and as a Cabinet insider.
Japan softens commitment to nuclear power in draft growth strategy
The government has dropped a key phrase that it "will continue to seek to make the most out of nuclear power" after protests from Cabinet ministers Shinjiro Koizumi and Taro Kono.
Japan looks to reduce environmental burdens of its fashion industry
The amount of carbon dioxide emitted each year in processes related to clothes supplied in Japan accounts for 4.5% of global fashion emissions.
Japan to boost greenhouse gas reduction target, environment minister says
"The use of renewable energy sources is the most important key" to reduce emissions, Shinjiro Koizumi said, adding that the country should consider making solar panels mandatory for houses.
Japan joins U.S. in urging China to accelerate climate action
China's "air pollution control could directly affect our people’s health and society," said Japan's Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi.
