Iran is blocking with missiles and mines the strait through which 20 per cent of global crude oil transits. After China, India and Bangladesh are trying to get Iran’s approval for their ships to avert a crisis. According to EIA data, up to 82 per cent of oil going through Hormuz reach Asian markets. Starting 16 March, Tokyo intends to release part of its oil reserves on its own.

Spiritual leader of the Ashaninka people in Brazil, Benki Piyãko has been promoting reforestation, environmental education, and the transmission of indigenous knowledge for over 15 years, becoming an internationally recognised voice for the defence of the Amazon.

The government has identified the site, Minamitorishima, Japan’s easternmost island. Uninhabited and off-limits to tourists, it has “some unexplored landmass capable of hosting a facility,” according to Japan’s Industry Minister.

The latest official demographic data show opposite trends in the two East Asian countries. Despite government measures and some tentative signs regarding fertility rates, Japan is failing to reverse the trend. South Korea is experiencing a rise in births among women over 30, but the country is still the most affected by the demographic winter.

Over the years, Japan has built a figure skating tradition capable of producing champions much loved at home. These successes are rooted in rigorous training and early selection. Since the 1990s, the Japan Skating Federation has built a national team that teaches athletes how to cope with pressure from a young age.

With yesterday's landslide victory, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will be able to advance her electoral platform, potentially opening the door to constitutional reform. The prime minister has also proposed cutting consumption taxes and boosting the defence forces. Analysts believe that tensions with China in recent months had an impact on results.