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Asian economies are racing to build up domestic oil and gas reserves in response to the Hormuz crisis, seeking to reduce their vulnerability to Middle East disruptions. Countries across the region, from Japan and India to China and Southeast Asian nations, are investing in strategic stockpiles and infrastructure to safeguard energy supplies.
US allies in Asia are watching with concern as Washington moves military assets, including its last regional aircraft carrier, to the Middle East for the campaign against Iran. Experts say the shift could weaken US deterrence against China, even as the bulk of US forces remain in the Asia-Pacific.
Pickleball is rapidly gaining ground in Japan, with participation surging more than sevenfold in the past year. Tokyo hosted the sport's first Asia Tour event in July as enthusiasts campaign for its inclusion in the 2032 Olympics.
Kyodo News releases a daily digest of major events, including an automatic earthquake warning issued on June 16. The alert was triggered by Japan’s seismic monitoring system, with details on location, magnitude, and safety advice. Other stories span politics, economy, society, and culture across Japan and the Asia-Pacific.
Japanese and Malaysian Prime Ministers agreed in Tokyo on June 8 to enhance cooperation on energy security, focusing on renewable energy and clean technology. The pact aims to stabilize supplies amid regional uncertainties and strengthen bilateral ties.
Energy ministers from eight Asian countries have adopted the Baku Declaration, pledging to advance cooperation in renewable energy, energy transition, and energy security. The declaration aims to boost investment, improve efficiency, and strengthen cross-border grid links.
Japan's Prime Minister said on May 14 that Tokyo is open to dialogue with China and stressed the need for a calm approach in bilateral relations. He emphasized the necessity of dialogue to ease tensions and find solutions to ongoing issues, including territorial disputes and history-related disagreements. The statement followed Japan's warning to citizens about child exploitation in Indonesia.
The Iran conflict has disrupted oil shipments, driving up fuel prices across Asia and prompting governments such as India's to accelerate adoption of ethanol and biofuels. The long-term shift toward alternative energy could reshape the region's energy mix, but immediate hardships for consumers persist.
Iranian weightlifter Yousefi won gold and set a new world record in the snatch at the 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships. He lifted 185 kg in the snatch, breaking the previous record of 184 kg. This victory marks Iran's first gold in the men's 81kg category since 2018.
