Haiti-Elections Tech: Japan and the Organization of American States signed a $3M deal to expand Haiti’s biometric ID system, aiming to update the electoral registry and issue 350,000 new cards ahead of elections. Royal-Diaspora Diplomacy: Japan’s Crown Prince and Princess Akishino arrived in Paraguay to mark 90 years since the first Japanese immigrants, visiting memorials and immigrant communities before returning Aug. 26. Indo-Pacific Security: Japan’s defense chief Shinjiro Koizumi is set to meet India’s Rajnath Singh to deepen maritime security and defense tech cooperation under “Make in India,” as both countries push back against a more volatile strategic environment. AI Infrastructure: NVIDIA says it has secured multi-billion-dollar “AI factory” deals across Japan, partnering with major firms to build high-performance AI training and operations facilities. Middle East Shipping: Japan and Turkey oppose any tolls on Hormuz passage, backing “free and safe navigation” amid the US-Iran standoff. Tourism: Foreign visitors to Japan hit a record 3.44M in July, while arrivals from China fell 56.1%. Business & Industry: Itochu plans data centers across Japan, targeting about 10 facilities by 2030, as Japan’s retail investors and tech demand keep reshaping the economy. Sports: Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki has joined Aston Villa in the Premier League on a permanent transfer.