2006.06.09

Japan-Defense (VOA) Japan prepares to upgrade to a full-fledged defense ministry. 2006.06.09

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ROK, Japan set for negotiations on maritime border [Yonhap] South Korea says it will resume bilateral talks with Japan next week to demarcate the maritime border in the waters between the two neighboring nations. 2006.06.09

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Japan's hawkish Aso announces bid to replace Koizumi (AFP). Japan's outspoken Foreign Minister Taro Aso, who has riled neighboring countries with his hawkish comments, has announced his bid to succeed Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi in September. But Beijing and Seoul shouldn't lose any sleep -- he's a dark horse. 2006.06.09

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ROK hostages in Nigeria to be freed - militants (Reuters). Militants who kidnapped five South Korean gas workers in Nigeria promise to release them imminently after a plea from the jailed militant leader in whose name they were abducted. 2006.06.09

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Pyongyang Says Alleged Abductee in DPRK, Arranges Reunion [VOA] North Korea 'confirms the whereabouts' of South Korean believed to have been abducted by Northern agents nearly 30 years ago and arrange reunion with his mother. 2006.06.09

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Japan's emperor visits Singapore. [BBC] The Japanese imperial couple begin a tour of South East Asia, starting with a state visit to Singapore. 2006.06.09

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Japanese stocks show signs of recovery (AP). Japan's benchmark stock index lost ground after today's open, but shows signs of recovery in early trade on buying in insurance and brokerage shares. 2006.06.09

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