April 26, Wednesday, 2017 (2:00 p.m.) Read by Ms. Emma Howard and Mr. Mick Corliss

1. A cabinet minister in charge of rebuilding areas hit by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami has resigned after making a remark seen as offensive to those affected by the disaster.
2. North Korea says it carried out what it calls the largest-ever artillery drills to celebrate the 85th anniversary of the foundation of the country’s army.
3. Officials from Japan and Russia are holding final negotiations on starting joint surveys of 4 disputed islands next month.