Tokyo monument to war dead sensitive subject in regional relations.

Planned sales tax hike seen weighing temporarily on consumption.

Economists back the sales tax increase even if it slows growth as part of a broader fiscal overhaul.

Expects expected increase in country's sales tax.

Comes after Tokyo proposed the meeting in a bid to defuse turmoil.

Delay could shake markets, unsettle support.

Defense paper released by Japan's hawkish new government calls for an increase in military capabilities.

Defense program update would be the first major hawkish move under new P.M. Shinzo Abe.

Also advocates raising the sales tax more gradually than planned.

Gives P.M. Shinzo Abe's coalition a majority in both chambers and a mandate to push ahead.