August 22, Wednesday, 2018 (2:00 p.m.) Read by Mr. Michael Reese and Ms. Eriko Kojima

  1. Japan’s Defense Ministry plans to request a record-high budget for next fiscal year to shore up the country’s defense capabilities against missile attacks and other threats.
  2. Top defense officials of Japan and Sri Lanka have confirmed that a Sri Lankan port leased to China should be open to all countries to ensure freedom of navigation.
  3. The U.N. nuclear watchdog says there have been indications that North Korea continues to operate its nuclear facilities despite its promise to abandon its nuclear program.