Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba to quit after election drubbing
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba
Photo:
AFP / MASAMINE KAWAGUCHI
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba will announce his resignation by the end of next month, Japanese media have reported, following a bruising election defeat that cost his administration its upper house majority.
The reports come after Ishiba and US President Donald Trump
unveiled a trade deal
that lowers tariffs on imports of Japanese autos, and spares Tokyo punishing new levies on other goods.
In the wake of
Sunday's poll drubbing
, Ishiba said he would stay in office to pursue the tariff agreement and tackle mounting economic problems.
"I can't say until I scrutinise the outcome of the agreement," Ishiba told reporters on Wednesday when asked whether the tariff deal with Washington would influence his decision on whether to stay on.
Ishiba told his close associates on Tuesday evening that he would address his responsibility for the election loss after a trade deal had been reached, the Yomiuri newspaper reported earlier.
His departure less than a year after taking office would trigger a succession battle within the ruling Liberal Democratic party as it contends with challenges from new political parties, particularly on the right, that are stealing its support.
Among them is the "Japanese First" Sanseito far-right group which surged in Sunday's vote, growing its representation in the 248-seat upper house to 14 from one. The party has attracted voters with pledges to curb immigration, slash taxes, and provide financial relief to households squeezed by rising prices.
Ishiba defeated hardline conservative Sanae Takaichi in a party leadership runoff last year.
Ishiba is expected to meet ruling party heavyweights later on Wednesday for discussions on the election outcome.
- Reuters
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scoop
15 hours ago
- Scoop
Fujitsu Starts Official Development Of Plus-10,000 Qubit Superconducting Quantum Computer Targeting Completion In 2030
Press Release – Fujitsu Development activities to be carried in part under NEDO project to advance the development of quantum computers towards industrialisation. Sydney, Australia; Monday 4 August 2025 – Fujitsu has announced it has started research and development towards a superconducting quantum computer with a capacity exceeding 10,000 qubits. Construction is slated for completion in fiscal 2030. The new superconducting quantum computer will operate with 250 logical qubits and will use Fujitsu's innovative 'STAR architecture,' an early-stage fault-tolerant quantum computing (early-FTQC) architecture also developed by the company. Fujitsu aims to make practical quantum computing possible, particularly in areas like materials science where complex simulations can unlock groundbreaking discoveries, and to this end will focus on advancing key scaling technologies across various technical domains. As part of this effort, Fujitsu has been selected as an implementing party for the 'Research and Development Project of the Enhanced Infrastructures for Post-5G Information and Communication Systems' [1], publicly solicited by the NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organisation). Fujitsu will be contributing to the thematic area of advancing the development of quantum computers towards industrialisation. The project will be promoted through joint research with Japan's National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) and RIKEN and will run until fiscal year 2027. Fujitsu is committed to driving forward the development of practical and industrialised quantum computing solutions. After this 10,000-qubit machine is built, Fujitsu will further pursue advanced research initiatives targeting the integration of superconducting and diamond spin-based qubits from fiscal 2030 and aims to realise a 1,000 logical qubit machine in fiscal 2035 while considering the possibility of multiple interconnected quantum bit-chips. Vivek Mahajan, Corporate Executive Officer, Corporate Vice President, CTO, in charge of System Platform, Fujitsu Limited, comments: 'Fujitsu is already recognised as a world leader in quantum computing across a broad spectrum, from software to hardware. This project, led by NEDO, will contribute significantly to Fujitsu's goal of further developing a Made-in-Japan fault tolerant superconducting quantum computer. We would also be aiming to combine superconducting quantum computing with diamond spin technology as part of our roadmap. By realizing 250 logical qubits in fiscal 2030 and 1,000 logical qubits in fiscal 2035, Fujitsu is committed to leading the path forward globally in the field of quantum computing. Additionally, Fujitsu will be developing the next generation of its HPC platform, using its FUJITSU-MONAKA processor line, which will also power FugakuNEXT. Fujitsu will further integrate its platforms for high-performance and quantum computing to offer a comprehensive computing platform to our customers.' Technology development focus areas Fujitsu's research efforts will focus on developing the following scaling technologies. High-throughput, high-precision qubit manufacturing technology: Improvement of the manufacturing precision of Josephson Junctions, critical components of superconducting qubits which minimise frequency variations. Chip-to-chip interconnect technology: Development of wiring and packaging technologies to enable the interconnection of multiple qubit chips, facilitating the creation of larger quantum processors. High-density packaging and low-cost qubit control: Addressing the challenges associated with cryogenic cooling and control systems, including the development of techniques to reduce component count and heat dissipation. Decoding technology for quantum error correction: Development of algorithms and system designs for decoding measurement data and correcting errors in quantum computations. Background The world faces increasingly complex challenges that demand computational power beyond the reach of traditional computers. Quantum computers offer the promise of tackling these previously intractable problems, driving significant advancements across numerous fields. While a fully fault-tolerant quantum computer with 1 million qubits of processing power is considered the ultimate goal, Fujitsu is focused on delivering practical solutions in the near term. Fujitsu's commitment to quantum computing is underscored by its ongoing R&D efforts. In August 2024, in collaboration with the University of Osaka, Fujitsu unveiled its STAR architecture, a highly efficient quantum computing architecture based on phase rotation gates. This architecture paves the way for early-FTQC systems capable of outperforming conventional computers with only 60,000 qubits [2]. On the hardware front, the RIKEN RQC-Fujitsu Collaboration Centre, established in 2021 with RIKEN, has already yielded a 64-qubit superconducting quantum computer in March 2023, followed by a world-leading [3] 256-qubit system in April 2025. Scaling to even larger systems requires overcoming challenges such as maintaining high fidelity across multiple interconnected qubit chips and achieving greater integration of components and wiring within dilution refrigerators. In addition to its superconducting approach, Fujitsu is also exploring the potential of diamond spin-based qubits, which use light for qubit connectivity. Fujitsu is conducting research in this area in collaboration with Delft University of Technology and QuTech, a leading quantum technology research institute, which has resulted in the successful creation of highly accurate and controllable qubits. Notes: [1]'Research and Development Project of the Enhanced Infrastructures for Post-5G Information and Communication Systems': Research and Development Project of the Enhanced Infrastructures for Post-5G Information and Communication Systems [2]Only 60,000 qubits: In simulations using 60,000 qubits, the STAR architecture can execute material energy estimation calculations which would take 5 years on conventional computers in about 10 hours. [3]A world-leading: One of the world's largest superconducting quantum computers available to external users (as of April 2025, according to Fujitsu). About Fujitsu Fujitsu's purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers around the globe, our 113,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: AI, Computing, Networks, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.6 trillion yen (US$23 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share.
Scoop
16 hours ago
- Scoop
Fujitsu Starts Official Development Of Plus-10,000 Qubit Superconducting Quantum Computer Targeting Completion In 2030
Sydney, Australia; Monday 4 August 2025 – Fujitsu has announced it has started research and development towards a superconducting quantum computer with a capacity exceeding 10,000 qubits. Construction is slated for completion in fiscal 2030. The new superconducting quantum computer will operate with 250 logical qubits and will use Fujitsu's innovative "STAR architecture," an early-stage fault-tolerant quantum computing (early-FTQC) architecture also developed by the company. Fujitsu aims to make practical quantum computing possible, particularly in areas like materials science where complex simulations can unlock groundbreaking discoveries, and to this end will focus on advancing key scaling technologies across various technical domains. As part of this effort, Fujitsu has been selected as an implementing party for the "Research and Development Project of the Enhanced Infrastructures for Post-5G Information and Communication Systems" [1], publicly solicited by the NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organisation). Fujitsu will be contributing to the thematic area of advancing the development of quantum computers towards industrialisation. The project will be promoted through joint research with Japan's National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) and RIKEN and will run until fiscal year 2027. Fujitsu is committed to driving forward the development of practical and industrialised quantum computing solutions. After this 10,000-qubit machine is built, Fujitsu will further pursue advanced research initiatives targeting the integration of superconducting and diamond spin-based qubits from fiscal 2030 and aims to realise a 1,000 logical qubit machine in fiscal 2035 while considering the possibility of multiple interconnected quantum bit-chips. Vivek Mahajan, Corporate Executive Officer, Corporate Vice President, CTO, in charge of System Platform, Fujitsu Limited, comments: "Fujitsu is already recognised as a world leader in quantum computing across a broad spectrum, from software to hardware. This project, led by NEDO, will contribute significantly to Fujitsu's goal of further developing a Made-in-Japan fault tolerant superconducting quantum computer. We would also be aiming to combine superconducting quantum computing with diamond spin technology as part of our roadmap. By realizing 250 logical qubits in fiscal 2030 and 1,000 logical qubits in fiscal 2035, Fujitsu is committed to leading the path forward globally in the field of quantum computing. Additionally, Fujitsu will be developing the next generation of its HPC platform, using its FUJITSU-MONAKA processor line, which will also power FugakuNEXT. Fujitsu will further integrate its platforms for high-performance and quantum computing to offer a comprehensive computing platform to our customers." Technology development focus areas Fujitsu's research efforts will focus on developing the following scaling technologies. High-throughput, high-precision qubit manufacturing technology: Improvement of the manufacturing precision of Josephson Junctions, critical components of superconducting qubits which minimise frequency variations. Chip-to-chip interconnect technology: Development of wiring and packaging technologies to enable the interconnection of multiple qubit chips, facilitating the creation of larger quantum processors. High-density packaging and low-cost qubit control: Addressing the challenges associated with cryogenic cooling and control systems, including the development of techniques to reduce component count and heat dissipation. Decoding technology for quantum error correction: Development of algorithms and system designs for decoding measurement data and correcting errors in quantum computations. Background The world faces increasingly complex challenges that demand computational power beyond the reach of traditional computers. Quantum computers offer the promise of tackling these previously intractable problems, driving significant advancements across numerous fields. While a fully fault-tolerant quantum computer with 1 million qubits of processing power is considered the ultimate goal, Fujitsu is focused on delivering practical solutions in the near term. Fujitsu's commitment to quantum computing is underscored by its ongoing R&D efforts. In August 2024, in collaboration with the University of Osaka, Fujitsu unveiled its STAR architecture, a highly efficient quantum computing architecture based on phase rotation gates. This architecture paves the way for early-FTQC systems capable of outperforming conventional computers with only 60,000 qubits [2]. On the hardware front, the RIKEN RQC-Fujitsu Collaboration Centre, established in 2021 with RIKEN, has already yielded a 64-qubit superconducting quantum computer in March 2023, followed by a world-leading [3] 256-qubit system in April 2025. Scaling to even larger systems requires overcoming challenges such as maintaining high fidelity across multiple interconnected qubit chips and achieving greater integration of components and wiring within dilution refrigerators. In addition to its superconducting approach, Fujitsu is also exploring the potential of diamond spin-based qubits, which use light for qubit connectivity. Fujitsu is conducting research in this area in collaboration with Delft University of Technology and QuTech, a leading quantum technology research institute, which has resulted in the successful creation of highly accurate and controllable qubits. Notes: [1]"Research and Development Project of the Enhanced Infrastructures for Post-5G Information and Communication Systems': Research and Development Project of the Enhanced Infrastructures for Post-5G Information and Communication Systems [2]Only 60,000 qubits: In simulations using 60,000 qubits, the STAR architecture can execute material energy estimation calculations which would take 5 years on conventional computers in about 10 hours. [3]A world-leading: One of the world's largest superconducting quantum computers available to external users (as of April 2025, according to Fujitsu). About Fujitsu Fujitsu's purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers around the globe, our 113,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: AI, Computing, Networks, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.6 trillion yen (US$23 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share.
RNZ News
17 hours ago
- RNZ News
Media Council upholds complaint against RNZ over inaccurate Rocket Lab report
Photo: RNZ / Diego Opatowski The NZ Media Council has upheld a complaint by Rocket Lab Ltd against Radio New Zealand (RNZ), ruling that a May 2025 article inaccurately linked the aerospace company to Ukraine's war effort, breaching journalistic standards of accuracy, fairness, and balance. The article, titled "Rocket Lab-launched satellites to help Ukraine in war against Russia," claimed that satellites launched by Rocket Lab for Japanese company iQPS would be used to support Ukraine's military intelligence. Rocket Lab strongly refuted this, stating the claim was false and damaging, and that neither they nor iQPS had any involvement in supplying military capabilities to Ukraine. Rocket Lab's complaint highlighted that RNZ relied solely on a single source and failed to seek comment from Rocket Lab, iQPS, or the New Zealand Space Agency before publication. iQPS had publicly denied providing data to foreign entities weeks earlier, a statement RNZ overlooked. Rocket Lab said the article's implication of involvement in military operations could have serious reputational and commercial consequences. RNZ retracted the article within five hours of receiving the complaint on 22 May and later issued an apology. However, Rocket Lab argued that the apology was only added after repeated requests and that RNZ's efforts to notify content-sharing partners were inadequate. The article remained live on NewstalkZB's website for eight days until Rocket Lab intervened directly. The Media Council acknowledged RNZ's swift removal of the article, however, despite this, there was no immediate acknowledgement of error in the original take down notice or apology and the Council found the original reporting to be a serious breach of Principle (1) - Accuracy, Fairness and Balance. The Council noted that the article lacked basic verification and failed to meet the standards expected of responsible journalism. While RNZ's take-down notice was a rare and significant step, the Council concluded that the seriousness of the error means that the article still warranted being found to be in breach. The full Media Council ruling can be found here: Media Council - Rocket Lab against Radio New Zealand .
