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Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has firmly asserted that Japan's defense budget is a matter of national sovereignty and should not be dictated by other countries. This statement comes in response to calls from the United States, specifically Elbridge Colby, the Trump administration's nominee for under secretary of defense for policy, who urged Japan to increase its defense spending to at least 3% of its GDP.

Indoor plant factories are gaining popularity in Japan, offering a sustainable and controlled solution for vegetable production amidst rising concerns about climate change and food security. These facilities, often located in urban areas, utilize artificial lighting and carefully controlled environments to cultivate vegetables independent of weather conditions, ensuring a consistent supply and quality.

Tomoko Yoshino, president of Rengo, the nation's largest labor union, urged the LDP to pass legislation allowing married couples to have separate surnames during the party's annual convention. This call for change comes as the issue gains increasing public support, putting pressure on the LDP to address the long-standing debate.

The rollout of an AI system designed to help child welfare centers identify abusive situations has been postponed due to concerns about its accuracy and reliability. The AI frequently missed significant signs of severe abuse during trials, prompting the Children and Families Agency to delay its implementation.

Japan's space agency, JAXA, plans to increase the launch frequency of its H3 rocket to at least seven times a year, aiming for one-month intervals between launches. This ambitious goal requires upgrades at the Tanegashima Space Center, including additional liquid oxygen storage tanks and assembly buildings, with the aim of strengthening Japan's international competitiveness in the space industry.