Japanese officials plan to put China top of the list of what their country sees as regional security challenges when they revise the National Security Strategy by the end of the year.

The document outlines Japan's basic diplomatic and defense policies. It refers to countries that pose security challenges.

Nissan has set up a new regional business unit for Africa, in line with its Nissan Next global strategy plan. The carmaker will look to enhance its focus on the customer while expanding its manufacturing capabilities across the continent.

Japanese Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide and Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc are holding talks in Hanoi. They are expected to discuss strengthening regional security and boosting economic ties.

It's Suga's first overseas trip since taking office last month. The visit comes just weeks before Vietnam is set to host the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit.

Regional gaps in coronavirus infections have emerged since the state of emergency was completely lifted in Japan a month ago. Tokyo and urban areas continue to report many cases, while 17 prefectures have not had any new infections in the past month.

Thursday marks exactly one month since the emergency ended on May 25.

A survey in Japan has found huge gaps among regions on the usage of digital devices and materials to help children study at home as their schools remain closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The education ministry asked local governments about their home study support for more than 25,000 elementary, junior and senior high schools.