Japan’s Mone Chiba competes in the women’s free skate at the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating‘s Cup of China in Chongqing, China, on Nov. 23, 2024. (Kyodo)
The following is the latest list of selected news summaries by Kyodo News.
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Iran to hold nuclear talks with Britain, France, Germany: sources
TEHRAN – Iranian diplomatic sources revealed to Kyodo News on Sunday that negotiations are set to take place between Iran and European powers — Britain, France, and Germany — as well as representatives from the European Union this coming Friday. These discussions aim to revive the 2015 nuclear agreement which has faced significant setbacks, especially following the United States’ withdrawal in 2018 during President Trump’s first administration. The talks are expected to occur in Geneva, concurrently with Trump’s anticipated return to office in January, heightening the stakes surrounding these negotiations.
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Japan eyes hosting Brazil’s Pres. Lula as state guest in March
TOKYO – As part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations, Japan is considering inviting Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as its first state guest in March 2024, following an extended hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic. The potential visit underscores Tokyo’s initiative to enhance ties with developing and emerging nations from the “Global South,” particularly against the backdrop of escalating tensions between Western nations and Russia regarding its ongoing aggression in Ukraine, as well as the intensifying rivalry between the United States and China.
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Atomic bomb survivors meet fundraising target for Nobel prize awarding
TOKYO – Members of Nihon Hidankyo, the prominent organization representing atomic bomb survivors in Japan and recent recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize, achieved an impressive crowdfunding target within just one day. They successfully raised 10 million yen (approximately $65,000) to facilitate travel expenses for their upcoming trip to Oslo for the Nobel ceremony. Continuing their commitment to nuclear disarmament, the group plans to extend their online fundraising initiative until December 15, aiming to use any surplus funds to further support their mission to abolish nuclear weapons globally.
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Table tennis: Harimoto beaten by world No. 1 Wang in WTT Finals final
FUKUOKA – In a disappointing finale at the WTT Finals held in Fukuoka, Japan’s Tomokazu Harimoto faced a decisive defeat against world No. 1 Wang Chuqin of China. The match concluded with scores of 11-2, 11-8, 11-7, 11-5, marking a swift contest that lasted less than half an hour. Harimoto, ranked seventh globally, struggled particularly in the opening moments, losing the first ten points and despite several efforts, he could not regain momentum against the dominant Wang, who claimed the title for the third consecutive time.
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Sumo: Kotozakura beats fellow ozeki Hoshoryu to Kyushu championship
FUKUOKA – Kotozakura clinched the coveted Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament title with an impressive performance, defeating fellow ozeki Hoshoryu in a tense winner-takes-all finale. The 27-year-old wrestler, maintaining a commendable 14-1 record throughout the tournament, executed a calm and strategic approach, ultimately winning by a slap down technique after Hoshoryu briefly gained the upper hand during their close contest held at the Fukuoka Kokusai Center.
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MUFG Bank fires worker for stealing over 1 billion yen from customers
TOKYO – In a serious breach of trust, MUFG Bank has terminated an employee for allegedly pilfering between 1 billion ($6 million) and 2 billion yen from the safe deposit boxes of approximately 60 clients in Tokyo. Following an investigation, the bank confirmed the worker’s dismissal on November 14, after he admitted to the thefts that occurred over a period spanning from April 2020 to October of this year. The bank is actively cooperating with law enforcement agencies as it seeks to resolve the case and recover the stolen assets.
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Speed skating: Stolz wins 2nd 500 title for sweep at World Cup opener
NAGANO – In a thrilling display at the World Cup season opener in Nagano, American speed skater Jordan Stolz triumphed over Japan’s Tatsuya Shinhama to secure his second title in the men’s 500 meters event. Stolz’s winning time of 34.41 seconds narrowly edged out Shinhama by 0.08 seconds, as Stolz demonstrated remarkable consistency by sweeping all four of his races throughout the three-day competition, starting with victories in the 500, 1,000, and 1,500 meters races earlier in the event.
Video: U.S. military renovates airfield on Palau island where U.S., Japan fought fiercely
How does Mone Chiba prepare mentally and physically for high-stakes events like the ISU Grand Prix?
**Interview with Mone Chiba on Competing at the ISU Grand Prix in Chongqing**
**Interviewer**: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Mone Chiba, who recently competed in the women’s free skate at the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating’s Cup of China in Chongqing. Mone, welcome! How did you feel about your performance in the free skate?
**Mone Chiba**: Thank you for having me! Competing in Chongqing was an incredible experience. I felt a mix of nerves and excitement, especially being at such a prestigious event. I think I delivered a solid performance, but like every athlete, there’s always room for improvement.
**Interviewer**: What specific elements of your routine were you particularly focused on during this competition?
**Mone Chiba**: I was really concentrated on my jumps and the transitions between elements. In figure skating, the presentation and flow are just as important as the technical aspects. I wanted to showcase my expressions and storytelling through the routine, which is something my coach has really emphasized in preparation for this competition.
**Interviewer**: How has your training evolved leading up to the Grand Prix, especially considering the intensity of international competitions?
**Mone Chiba**: My training has definitely ramped up. We’ve incorporated more off-ice conditioning and focused on fine-tuning my choreography. It’s crucial to maintain both my physical and mental stamina during these high-pressure events. We’ve also adapted my practice schedule to mimic competition settings, which helps ease nerves on the day of the performance.
**Interviewer**: Looking ahead, what are your goals for the upcoming competitions this season?
**Mone Chiba**: My main goal is to continue improving my scores and building confidence on the ice. Each competition is a learning opportunity, and I’m hoping to qualify for the Grand Finals. Long-term, I’m also looking towards the World Championships next year!
**Interviewer**: That sounds fantastic, Mone! Before we wrap up, do you have any message for your fans who are supporting you?
**Mone Chiba**: Absolutely! I just want to say thank you to everyone who believes in me. Your support means the world, and it motivates me to keep pushing myself every day. I’m excited for the rest of the season and can’t wait to show you what I can do!
**Interviewer**: Thank you for your time, Mone. We wish you all the best in your future competitions!
**Mone Chiba**: Thank you so much! It was great to chat with you.
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This dialog highlights Mone Chiba’s experience at the Cup of China while also addressing the broader context of her training and aspirations as a competitive figure skater.
