Month: 2026-06

TOKYO, June 4, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - INPEX CORPORATION (INPEX), Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. (Osaka Gas), and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) today started operations of a system to facilitate the transfer and management of Clean Gas Certificates, part of a demonstration project being jointly conducted by INPEX and Osaka Gas aimed at developing practical technology for the reduction and effective utilization of CO2 emissions by using one of the world's largest-class methanation systems (hereinafter, the "Nagaoka Methanation Demonstration").(1) This system, which is being developed by Osaka Gas and MHI using the CO2NNEX®(2) digital platform, is the first of its kind in the city gas industry for transfer and management of Clean Gas Certificates to certify the environmental value(3) of e-methane.The Nagaoka Methanation Demonstration is a project to produce e-methane from hydrogen (H2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) recovered from the Koshijihara Plant at the INPEX JAPAN Nagaoka Field Office (Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture), for planned delivery to customers through INPEX JAPAN's natural gas pipeline. The e-methane produced at the clean gas production facility, which was certified in January 2026, received clean gas equivalent amount certification on May 29.(4)Going forward, to build a model for local production and local consumption envisioned as part of the Nagaoka Methanation Demonstration, the partners will convert the environmental value of e-methane into Clean Gas Certificates, and together with Nagaoka City, as well as commercial firms Asahi-Shuzo Sake Brewing Co., Ltd. and Iwatsuka Confectionery Co., Ltd., which are located near the demonstration test facility, will work to transfer and manage clean gas certificates using CO2NNEX. (Fig.1)Fig. 1: Envisioned Initiatives using CO2NNEXIn addition to providing data, such as the amount of e-methane, the raw material used in its production (CO2 and H2), and the volume of CO2 emissions across the lifecycle, CO2NNEX enables visualization and central management for the acquisition and use of Clean Gas Certificates, allowing for more advanced progress management for the entire demonstration project. (Fig. 2, integrating and managing the input data on the left and the output data on the right using CO2NNEX)Fig. 2: Progress management for the entire demonstration project (System screen image)Going forward, Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) plans to conduct a system demonstration project for Environmental Value Certificates for next-generation fuels, including liquid fuels (e-gasoline, SAF) and gaseous fuels (e-methane, biogas).(5) Operations of CO2NNEX in the Nagaoka Methanation Demonstration aim to provide a precedent for the establishment of the certificate system in the future, in the expectation that the experience gained and knowledge obtained will be useful in the consideration of the certificate system.Through this initiative, INPEX, Osaka Gas, and MHI will contribute to the practical application of e-methane and the realization of a carbon-neutral society.(1) Nagaoka Methanation Demonstration: Project entitled "Development of CO2 utilization technology for gaseous fuel and Development of practical technology for pipeline injection using large-scale CO2-methanation system", subsidized by Japan's New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). Injection of produced e-methane into natural gas pipelines began on February 20, 2026. The test facility was certified as a clean gas production facility under the Clean Gas Certificate System on January 27, 2026.For details, see the following press release:"INPEX, Osaka Gas Commence Demonstration Operations at World's Largest-Class Methanation Test Facility" (February 24, 2026)https://www.inpex.com/english/news/upload/20260224.pdfhttps://www.osakagas.co.jp/en/whatsnew/__icsFiles/afieldfile/2026/02/24/260224_2_1.pdf(2) CO2NNEX is a digital platform developed by MHI for visualization and management of the CO2 supply chain. Osaka Gas and MHI are jointly working to implement e-methane attribute data management and Clean Gas Certificate transfer and management functions through CO2NNEX. The implementation of this system is the second example, following Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, JapanFor details, see the following press release:"CO2NNEX® Digital Platform for Transfer and Management of e-Methane Clean Gas Certificates to Be Utilized in Nagaoka Methanation Demonstration" (September 11, 2025)https://www.inpex.com/english/news/upload/20250911.pdfhttps://www.osakagas.co.jp/en/whatsnew/__icsFiles/afieldfile/2025/09/10/250911_1.pdfhttps://www.mhi.com/news/25091101.html(3) Environmental value: Since CO2 emitted into the atmosphere (or CO2 in the atmosphere) is captured and carbon recycled as raw material for e-methane, even when e-methane is used (burned), the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere does not increase in real terms, so CO2 emissions are effectively zero.(4) Clean gas production facilities, clean gas equivalent: Under the clean gas certificate system, managed in part by the Japan Gas Association (JGA), e-methane and biogas, which carry environmental value (considered not to increase atmospheric CO2 even when burned), are certified as clean gas and issued Clean Gas Certificates through a process that involves certification of the clean gas production facility, and certification of the equivalent amount of clean gas produced at the certified facility. For details, see the Clean Gas Certificate Evaluation Committee website (Japanese): https://www.clean-gas-certificate.com/(5) Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) plans to conduct a demonstration project for the phased launch of a clean fuel certificate system, including gaseous fuels such as synthetic methane (FY2026).For details, see the following document (Japanese):14th Public-Private Council for the Promotion of Methanation (June 18, 2025)Document 3:"Current Situation Surrounding Synthetic Methane (e-Methane) and Other Materialshttps://www.meti.go.jp/shingikai/energy_environment/methanation_suishin/pdf/014_03_00.pdfAbout INPEXINPEX Group, in its INPEX Vision 2035 released in February 2025, announced its aim to execute a responsible energy transition focused on ensuring stable supply of lower-carbon energy in a sustainable manner, promoting lower-carbon solutions by leveraging its capabilities and technical expertise. In particular, along with reductions in GHG emissions by integrating CCS into its natural gas/LNG projects, INPEX will provide GHG reduction solutions to third parties.About Osaka GasDaigas Group, based on its Energy Transition 2050 released in February 2025, will work to develop technologies and services that contribute to a carbon-neutral society, actively address climate change and other social challenges, and aim to be a corporate group that contributes to the further advancement of everyday life and business.About MHIMHI Group is actively involved in programs targeting the realization of a carbon neutral society. Building a CO2 ecosystem is central to its energy transition initiatives. As a global leader in CCUS, the company aims to accelerate this ecosystem development by seeking widespread adoption of related hardware as well as the CO2NNEX digital platform.For more information, see the CO2NNEX website."CO2NNEX" is a registered trademark of MHI in Japan and other countries.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Kawasaki and Tokyo, Japan, June 4, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited and Daiichi Life Group, Inc. today announced that they conduct joint research from April 2026 to March 2027 to advance asset management operations through the application of quantum technology in the insurance sector.This joint research will leverage the expertise of Daiichi Life Insurance Co., Ltd., a leading institutional investor in Japan managing approximately 30 trillion yen in assets, by addressing practical challenges in its asset management operations. Both companies will jointly design and develop quantum algorithms to optimize asset allocation across multiple asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and alternative assets, considering risk-return balance and liability characteristics. They will also conduct performance verification using quantum computer simulators [1] (quantum simulators) and quantum computers.When making asset allocation decisions, it is necessary to simultaneously consider complex factors such as the balance between risk and return, liability characteristics, regulatory requirements, and investment constraints for each asset class. The two companies aim to conduct more comprehensive and efficient evaluations that take these factors into account under a wide range of economic scenarios, with the goal of researching and analyzing optimal asset allocation strategies.BackgroundIn recent years, advanced technologies such as AI and quantum technology have the potential to bring about transformation in various sectors of society. Particularly in the financial industry, these technologies are expected to enable more sophisticated risk analysis, improved customer experience, and enhanced operational efficiency, which were not achievable with conventional computers.Convinced that quantum computers are a key technology that will bring about revolutionary changes in society and business, Fujitsu is actively engaged in the research and development of quantum technology and is promoting its social implementation through joint verification with companies across various industries, with a view to practical application.Daiichi Life Group is working to enhance its cross-group IT and digital capabilities, aiming to leverage rapidly advancing cutting-edge technologies as a driving force for business growth as it strives to become an “global top-tier insurance group” and a “leader shaping the future of Japanese insurance industry.” Furthermore, Daiichi Life Insurance manages approximately 30 trillion yen in assets. If portfolio returns were to improve by even +1 basis point (1/10,000) through optimization, this would result in a return improvement of +3 billion yen (30 trillion yen × 1 basis point).Against this backdrop, the two companies have entered into a joint research partnership to accelerate the societal implementation of quantum technology in the insurance sector.Overview of the Joint Research1. Period:April 2026 to the end of March 2027 (planned)2. Verification Details:Both companies will develop technology for optimizing asset allocation patterns using quantum algorithms. By evaluating performance while varying constraints and simulation scenarios using quantum simulators and quantum computers, they will conduct pioneering verification of the effectiveness of asset allocation in asset management operations when utilizing future large-scale, high-performance quantum computers.3. Roles of Both CompaniesFujitsu: Provide expertise and technology related to quantum algorithms, and offer quantum computing environments such as large-scale quantum simulators consisting of 1,024 nodes and quantum computers.Daiichi Life Group:Designs research themes, defines evaluation metrics, and provides asset management data, business workflows, and on-site challenges (through Daiichi Life Insurance's practical operations).Future PlansThe two companies will explore the development of quantum technologies that can be widely applied not only to asset management but also to the insurance sector in the future. Anticipating progress in the practical application of quantum computers, they aim to rapidly deploy these technologies in business once large-scale quantum computers become a reality by conducting practical verification from an early stage. Furthermore, they will contribute to academic advancement and global technological progress by widely disseminating the insights gained through this joint research via academic papers and other publications.[1] Quantum computer simulator:A 40-qubit state-vector quantum computer simulator comprising 1,024 "FX700" supercomputers equipped with "A64FX" processors.About FujitsuFujitsu’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 100,000 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 3.5 trillion yen (US$23 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: global.fujitsuAbout Daiichi Life GroupDaiichi Life Group has built trust with stakeholders since its founding in 1902 as Japan’s first mutual life insurance company, while pursuing key transformations such as its demutualization in 2010 and transition to a holding company structure in 2016. In response to a rapidly changing environment, it defined its Purpose in 2024: “Partnering with you to build a brighter and more secure future,” and aims to deliver broader value beyond traditional life insurance as an insurance and related services provider. In April 2026, the Group changed its corporate name to Daiichi Life Group, Inc. and renewed its global brand as “Daiichi Life.” Looking ahead, it strives to become a global top-tier insurance group and a leader shaping the future of Japanese insurance industry by fiscal 2030. Find out more: Daiichi Life Group, Inc.Press ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic, Investor and Analyst Relations DivisionInquiries Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Suzuka City, Japan, June 4, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda will launch the SMILE RIDER PROJECT, a new initiative with Sanrio Co., Ltd. (Sanrio) aimed at communicating the appeal of motorcycles, motorsports, and the importance of road safety to people of all ages.Honda and Sanrio have previously collaborated on motorcycles and parts featuring Sanrio characters. Building on those efforts, the two companies are launching a joint project under the concept of “Making Children and Adults Smile.” By combining the strengths of both companies, the project will work to expand interest in motorcycles and motorsports among younger generations.In addition, Honda promotes its global safety slogan, “Safety for Everyone”*1, with the goal of realizing a society free from traffic collisions for all road users. Through this project, Honda will continue road safety education activities not only for riders and drivers, but also for elementary school students who will become future participants in traffic society. As one of the project's key activities, SANRIO CHARACTERS × Honda Kumamoto Racing will participate in the 2026 FIM*2 Endurance World Championship “Coca-Cola” Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Road Race 47th Edition (Suzuka 8 Hours), to be held at Suzuka Circuit in Mie Prefecture on Sunday, July 5.For this collaboration, the Honda Ryokuyokai Kumamoto Racing comprised of employees from Kumamoto Factory - Honda’s domestic motorcycle manufacturing base-will be supporting the project. This is to mark the factory’s 50th anniversary since beginning of its operation in 1976 as well as in recognition of the CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE Suzuka 8 Hours racing model which is developed and manufactured in Kumamoto, Japan.The racing bike will feature special livery inspired by Sanrio’s popular character Kuromi. In addition, Hello Kitty, Kuromi, and Pompompurin will appear on helmets, racing suits, team wear, and inside the pit area, bringing colorful Sanrio character themes to the circuit.Through these activities, Honda aims to attract new audiences to motorcycles and motorsports.*1 A vision of creating a society free from traffic collisions where everyone who uses the road can travel safely, whether driving, riding, cycling, or walking.*2 FIM: Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (International Motorcycling Federation).To offer more fans the opportunity to experience the excitement and atmosphere of the Suzuka 8 Hours firsthand, the companies will offer 150 SMILE RIDER PROJECT Supporter Seats. The package includes reserved V2 grandstand seating overlooking Suzuka Circuit’s home straight, providing excellent views of the race start, finish, and pit works, along with exclusive supporter items including a commemorative baseball jersey and support flag created for the project.Tickets will go on sale through Mobility Station, Suzuka Circuit’s official online ticketing service, at 11:00 on June 8 (JST)In addition, the “16–23 ZERO Yen Pass“ for visitors aged 16 to 23 will also offer a SMILE RIDER PROJECT support flag.*3 Through this initiative, more fans will have the opportunity to support SANRIO CHARACTERS × Honda Kumamoto Racing and experience the excitement of motorcycle racing firsthand at Suzuka Circuit.At the Honda RACING Gallery inside Suzuka Circuit Park, visitors can also enjoy a special exhibition featuring past Honda vehicles created in collaboration with Sanrio characters, character greeting events, and limited-edition collaboration merchandise. The exhibition is designed to be enjoyed not only by racing fans, but also by Sanrio character fans.*3 Support flags are available in limited quantities and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.For more information about SANRIO CHARACTERS × Honda Kumamoto Racing, please visit: URL https://global.honda/en/motorcycle/SmileRiderProject/For details about the SMILE RIDER PROJECT support seats, please refer to the Suzuka Circuit official website. URL https://www.suzukacircuit.jp/8tai/ticket/fan-seat/ (Japanese)Another key objective of the project is to promote road safety awareness among elementary school students.Since 1970, Honda has actively conducted road safety education activities through its Traffic Safety Planning Department, targeting not only drivers and riders but also children, senior citizens, and all members of traffic society.Statistics show that seven-year-old children account for the highest number of pedestrian traffic casualties by age group*4. In response, Honda will work with the City of Suzuka, including its Board of Education and Traffic Security Division, to distribute Road Safety T-shirts featuring Sanrio characters and road safety messages to approximately 1,400 first-grade students across 28 elementary schools in Suzuka City.A presentation ceremony for the T-shirts is scheduled to take place at a Suzuka elementary school on June 24.Suzuka City will also hold road safety class at elementary school in Suzuka City using educational materials developed by Honda, including Ayatorii*5 Hiyoko and the Digital traffic Safety Karuta, providing opportunities for children to learn about traffic safety and develop greater awareness.Through these initiatives, the project aims to help create the kind of traffic society envisioned by the SMILE RIDER PROJECT—one where children and adults alike can smile.*4 Source: Institute for Traffic Accident Research and Data Analysis (ITARDA), 2015.*5 Ayatorii is derived from the Japanese phrase meaning “explaining safety simply to help people understand.” Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Toyota City, Japan, June 4, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - GAZOO Racing (GR) held the world premiere today of the GRMN Corolla―the ultimate GR Corolla, engineered to deliver a confident, full-throttle experience on Germany's Nürburgring racetrack, the starting point for both GR, which is committed to building ever-better motorsports-bred cars, and Toyota Master Driver Morizo. The GRMN Corolla represents a comprehensive honing of the GR Corolla ignited by Morizo's strong desire to "bring back a Corolla that captivates our customers".The GRMN Corolla is to be available in limited quantities, primarily in Japan, North America, and Australia. In Japan, plans are to accept sales negotiations requests via the "GR app" smartphone app from around autumn 2026, with sales scheduled to begin in 2027. The new model is now on display at the Fuji Motorsports Forest Welcome Center until June 28.*1GRMN Corolla (prototype in Black Gravite)The GRMN Corolla, as the ultimate GR Corolla, enables a high level of car-driver unity even when pushing the limits.Its increased engine torque aims to unleash greater untamed energy.It features exclusively designed aerodynamic performance parts and a suspension honed through competing in the Super Taikyu Series and testing at the Nürburgring.Its 4WD control was optimized through repeated testing at the Nürburgring.The cockpit is equipped with a custom-designed driver's seat and a brush-metal instrument panel and has been evolved for enabling the driver to focus more fully on driving.In addition to the 2-seater GRMN Corolla, a 5-seater MORIZO RR version equipped with the GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission is currently being developed.Aiming for a car that can attack the Nürburgring at full throttleSpurred by the stance of Toyota Motor Corporation Chairman and Master Driver Akio Toyoda, a.k.a. Morizo, of: "If it's going to bear the GRMN name, it needs to be a car that can duly handle the Nürburgring", the development team honed the GRMN Corolla on what is said to be the world's most grueling race course. Going all out on the Nürburgring, which provides road inputs and surface variations not found on regular test courses, highlights a car's weaknesses. Developing the GRMN Corolla at the Nürburgring enabled crafting a car that can be controlled at will at all speeds, even on rough surfaces.In addition to development through track testing at the Nürburgring, the GRMN Corolla also went through its paces in Japan's Super Taikyu Series. It was also methodically validated using advanced driving simulators. But it was driving it at the Nürburgring that brought unexpected challenges to the fore. The development team overcame those challenges one by one in pursuit of achieving a high level of car-driver unity, enabling the car and driver to remain in constant, effective communication even when pushing the limits.GR has applied the insights gained from GRMN Corolla development to the evolution of the base GR Corolla. For the 2026 GR Corolla, announced in September 2025 and launched in November of that year, the application of structural adhesive was extended by 13.9 meters to 32.7 meters to reinforce the body structure, and an added cool-air duct reduces the rise in intake air temperature during high-load driving. Both were the result of applying lessons learned at the Nürburgring.GRMN Corolla main featuresAerodynamic performance: Super Taikyu Series-tested and Nürburgring-honedIn Super Taikyu Series and similar races and at the Nürburgring, cars constantly travel at high speeds and experience high g-forces. Maximizing vehicle performance under these conditions crucially requires that all four wheels maintain firm contact with the road. The GRMN Corolla features exclusively developed aerodynamic performance parts for enhanced road holding. Its hood duct, fender ducts, front side spoilers, and rear wing incorporate know-how gained from racing, tested on the hydrogen engine-powered GR Corolla that competes in the Super Taikyu Series. Based on all-inclusive Super Taikyu Series trial and error, fine-tuning came at the Nürburgring. This effort included adjusting the rear wing angle, which features a five-step adjustment mechanism, in 1-degree increments during driving tests with professional drivers to verify effectiveness and determine the optimal specification.Exclusive suspension fine-tuned through extensive Nürburgring testingThe GRMN Corolla's suspension employs exclusive front and rear monotube shock absorbers with rebound springs for improved inner-wheel traction during cornering and for enhanced high-speed cornering performance.The Nürburgring road surface includes environments that induce significant vertical suspension travel beyond that experienced on typical circuits. To ensure high stability for confident driving even in such conditions, extensive Nürburgring test runs facilitated optimization of bump-stop characteristics. The exclusive shock absorbers were developed by adjusting their stroke down to a millimeter at the front and rear for optimal balance. Furthermore, for enhanced cornering stability and braking performance, the GRMN Corolla sports 245/40ZR18 "Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2" high-grip tires, which are 10 mm wider than those on the base vehicle.The control program of the GRMN Corolla's EPS (electric power steering) has been modified from that on the base vehicle to generate the required amount of assistance torque even during cornering under high g-forces. The exclusively tuned 4WD control system provides optimal rear torque distribution during straight-line driving and enhanced stability at the onset of steering input at extremely high speeds.Internal combustion engine evolution via the hydrogen engine-powered CorollaGR has been gaining valuable lessons for the evolution of the internal combustion engine by competing in the Super Taikyu Series with a hydrogen engine-powered GR Corolla, as extended, high-load endurance racing helps heighten not only the potential of hydrogen technology but also that of fundamental internal combustion engine components. Applying insights gained from competing in the Super Taikyu Series has enabled the GRMN Corolla to achieve a maximum engine torque of 415 Nm*2, 15 Nm greater than that of the base vehicle. The development team optimized the GRMN Corolla's engine characteristics by analyzing the range of engine use during circuit driving, focusing on increasing torque in the 3,600-4,800 rpm mid-speed range, which is crucial for accelerating out of corners. To maintain stable, high engine output even during continuous full-throttle driving, the GRMN Corolla comes with an intercooler spray system, in addition to the cool-air duct added to the 2026 GR Corolla.Also, in pursuit of an even higher level of performance and an "untamed energy that captivates customers", the GRMN Corolla has no rear seats as part of an effort to achieve thorough weight reduction. The power-to-weight ratio has been improved by reducing weight by 30 kilograms compared to the base vehicle*3, providing customers with an unparalleled driving experience.A cockpit designed to unlock an even higher level of performanceThe GRMN Corolla boasts not only exclusively tuned driving performance but also a specially designed cockpit featuring a driver's seat and an instrument panel meticulously crafted to enable customers to unlock the value of genuine driving performance. The custom-designed full bucket driver's seat*4 was based on the driving position in Super Taikyu Series race cars to achieve holding performance capable of withstanding higher lateral g-forces. The carefully adjusted seat length facilitates clutch operation, and the seat's glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) construction helps reduce weight. In addition to safety being first and foremost, the aim was to create a driver's seat that enhances car-driver unity while considering everyday ease of ingress and egress. Development involved installing the seat in a car competing in the Super Taikyu Series and incorporating feedback from various professional drivers, including that from evaluations conducted while wearing a helmet.The cockpit's design and meticulously considered color scheme create a space that enables the driver to focus more fully on driving and features an exclusive flocked instrument panel and flocked front pillars. Carbon-fiber ornamentation―developed and manufactured by the Carbon Section at Toyota Motor Corporation's Motomachi Plant―adorns the instrument panel on the passenger side. Other special items include instrument panel padding bearing Morizo's signature, door trim and shift knob accented in Alumite Red, and a GRMN-exclusive serial number plate. GR Corolla MORIZO RR (concept model)Currently under development is the GR Corolla MORIZO RR, an ultimate 5-seater model of the GR Corolla equipped with the GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission, for which the unveiling and launch dates have yet to be determined. The GR Corolla MORIZO RR is now on display as a concept model alongside the GRMN Corolla at the Fuji Motorsports Forest Welcome Center until June 28.*1*1 Please check the Fuji Motorsports Forest website (https://en.fujimotorsportsforest.jp/) for information on closed days and public opening hours during the exhibition period.*2 415 Nm is the maximum engine torque for the Japan-specification model*3 Maximum engine torque and vehicle weight vary by market.*4 Only in Japan and Australia; semi-bucket seats in North AmericaToyota Motor Corporation works to develop and manufacture innovative, safe and high-quality products and services that create happiness by providing mobility for all. We believe that true achievement comes from supporting our customers, partners, employees, and the communities in which we operate. Since our founding over 80 years ago in 1937, we have applied our Guiding Principles in pursuit of a safer, greener and more inclusive society. Today, as we transform into a mobility company developing connected, automated, shared and electrified technologies, we also remain true to our Guiding Principles and many of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals to help realize an ever-better world, where everyone is free to move.SDGs Initiatives: https://global.toyota/en/sustainability/sdgs/ Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, June 4, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Nippon Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, officially opened the Island States Ocean Summit on June 3, 2026 at Hotel New Otani Tokyo. His Majesty the Emperor attended the Opening Ceremony and delivered remarks. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also attended the Opening Ceremony and delivered an address, underscoring the Government of Japan’s strong support for the Summit and its outcomes. Approximately 300 participants, including heads of state, ministers, senior officials, and experts from 35 countries across the Pacific, Caribbean, and Indian Ocean regions, are taking part in the Summit.Building on discussions held throughout the two-day Summit, The Nippon Foundation will announce a new action plan to strengthen support for island states on the evening of June 4.Remarks by His Majesty the EmperorAt the Opening Ceremony, His Majesty the Emperor delivered remarks. The full text of His Majesty’s remarks is attached as Annex 1.Opening Ceremony HighlightsRepresenting the host organization, Yohei Sasakawa, Honorary Chair of The Nippon Foundation, delivered the opening address.Mr. Sasakawa stated:“Today, island states face serious threats, including sea-level rise and extreme weather events caused by climate change. These challenges can no longer be solved by any one country or institution alone. Through this Summit, we must bring together our wisdom and determination to inspire global solidarity and action.”He reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to further strengthening its support for island states through the outcomes of the Summit.His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon of Norway emphasized the importance of Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management, stating:“At the same time, the ocean is not only a victim of climate change. It is a solution, continuing to offer opportunities that can bring benefits to nature and people in island states. Sustainable ocean planning and management can create frameworks for attracting investment in green ocean industries.”He highlighted the importance of strengthening climate resilience in island states while advancing sustainable ocean economies through science-based ocean management.Speaking on behalf of island states and serving as Summit Co-Chair, H.E. Surangel S. Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau and Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), stated:“The ocean is not a backdrop to our lives. It is our economy. Our food security. Our culture. Our very sovereignty. And it is changing faster than our communities can adapt. As AOSIS Chair, I speak for nations that together contribute less than one percent of global emissions, yet we face the most severe impacts of global warming. International climate and ocean governance is not delivering for the most vulnerable. We need action that matches the urgency.”Keynote Addresses and Group PhotoFollowing the Opening Ceremony, keynote addresses were delivered in the presence of His Majesty the Emperor and Crown Prince Haakon of Norway.H.E. Mr Peter Thomson, United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean, and Mr. Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, stressed that there can be no healthy planet without a healthy ocean and highlighted the importance of island states advancing Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management (SOPM).The Summit will continue on June 4, focusing on practical measures and support mechanisms that enable island states to achieve both conservation and sustainable use of their ocean resources.A Co-Chairs’ Summary will be released on the evening of June 4. Building on that Summary, the Nippon Foundation will announce a new ten-year action plan to strengthen support for island states.About the Island States Ocean SummitIsland States, especially Small Island Developing States (SIDS), are widely recognized as being among the states most affected by the impacts of climate change and face an urgent need to strengthen their resilience in response to unprecedented environmental changes.The Island States Ocean Summit is the first international summit dedicated specifically to oceans and island states and aims to explore pathways that support the long-term resilience and self-reliance of SIDS. In collaboration with leaders from government, academia, industry, and the ocean community, the Summit promotes the development of new action plans that support the conservation of marine environments while enabling the sustainable use of ocean resources.The Summit discussions are co-chaired by H.E. Surangel S. Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau and Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), Mr. Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, and Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, Honorary Chair of The Nippon Foundation.The outcomes of the Summit will contribute to future international discussions on biodiversity, climate change, and ocean governance, including COP17 of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), COP31 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the BBNJ process, and the 2027 Ocean Decade Conference through the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO.About Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management (SOPM)Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management (SOPM) is a comprehensive, strategic and future-oriented framework designed to guide decision-making about the overall sustainable use and conservation of a nation’s entire ocean resources. It is a whole-of-society, whole-of-government approach that serves as a unifying umbrella framework for ocean-related governance at all scales.By developing integrated plans for fisheries, tourism, renewable energy, and other oceanbased industries, SOPM helps countries strengthen climate resilience while ensuring the longterm sustainability of marine ecosystems and coastal communities.The Island States Ocean Summit supports island states in accelerating the adoption and implementation of SOPM and strengthening their capacity to balance ocean conservation, sustainable economic development, and climate resilience.About The Nippon Foundation https://www.nippon-foundation.or.jp/ Together, for pain and hope. Together, for the future. Established in 1962, The Nippon Foundation is Japan’s largest philanthropic foundation. The Foundation supports a broad range of initiatives including humanitarian assistance, disability inclusion, child welfare, disaster response, and ocean conservation.Media ContactIsland States Ocean Summit Press Desk (within Kyodo PR)Email: isos-pr@kyodo-pr.co.jp Annex 1: Remarks by His Majesty the EmperorYour Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon of the Kingdom of Norway, Prime Minister Takaichi,Your Excellencies, Dr. Yohei Sasakawa, Distinguished Guests and Participants,It gives me great pleasure to be here today to attend the opening of the Island States Ocean Summit together with all of you. Japan, as an island nation, has from ancient times reaped the rich blessings of the ocean. As we witness rising sea levels due to global warming and a series of disasters caused by extreme weather around the world, I am deeply reminded of the importance of maintaining the delicate balance on Earth through the grand water cycle, where water is brought in from the sea and returns to the sea.I myself have for many years been interested in water issues, including safe drinking water, sanitation, water transport, climate change and water-related natural disasters, which are deeply intertwined with national and global challenges. I have always hoped that discussions on these issues would be deepened further around the world.It is my understanding that the purpose of this summit is to promote, through collaboration between private organizations, governments, and international organizations, national-level plans in island nations that aim to achieve both marine environment conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. I would like to express my sincere respect to all of you gathered here and to the participating nations, as you cooperate in sharing your collective wisdom and experience, and, by building upon the latest science while at the same time preserving traditions, endeavor to address global issues through international cooperation.To be mindful of the ocean and to work for its sound future is, in essence, nothing less than to safeguard our own future. As we face in our times many challenges, including rising sea levels, it is my earnest hope that a sense of solidarity among us will bring harmony and hope to the world. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you all.Press Release: http://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/2026604.pdf Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com