For decades, the United States and Soviet Russia were the only countries that had landed on the moon. Then came China and India. Now, Japan is trying for the second time in 2023.

Tokyo has summoned the Chinese ambassador over hundreds of crank calls believed to originate from China. Japan has begun to release treated water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant, which Beijing says is not safe.

In the aftermath of the coup in Gabon on Wednesday, videos have emerged that appear to show officials being caught red-handed with suitcases stuffed full of cash. Emerald Maxwell takes a look at what we know about the arrest of several people in the entourage of Gabon's deposed President Ali Bongo for alleged corruption and treason.

Countries around the world continue to report extreme temperature records. In India, August was not only the hottest but also the driest on record.

Japan is marking 100 years since a devastating earthquake triggered a widespread inferno in Kanto, a region that includes the capital Tokyo. Most victims perished in the fire.

The release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant prompted China to ban Japan's seafood imports. Japanese officials say they are now looking to boost export markets in places such as Taiwan, the US and Europe.

Japan's lunar mission comes two weeks after India successfully landed its craft on the moon's south pole.

Residents of Marrakech, the nearest major city to the epicentre, said some buildings had collapsed in the old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and local television showed pictures of a fallen mosque minaret with rubble lying on smashed cars.

Gambling in Japan operates in the shadows, yet it accounts for nearly half of sales in the country's leisure sector. And for some, a harmless pastime can turn into a dangerous addiction. About three million Japanese are thought to have experienced a gambling addiction at some point in their lives. Earlier this year, the government approved plans to build Japan's first casino, a long-awaited move that has divided public opinion. Our correspondents report on Japan's troubled relationship with gambling.

From battle tanks to anti-aircraft defense systems: After initial hesitation, Berlin has become one of the most important suppliers of weapons to Ukraine.

Fumio Kishida named new foreign and defense ministers in reshuffling his 19-member Cabinet. The Liberal Democrat leader is facing trouble at home as he sinks in opinion polls ahead of possible snap elections.

Analysts expect North Korea to offer artillery rounds in exchange for advanced Russian technology used for missiles, nuclear weapons and submarines. However, the details are likely to be kept secret.