In this file photo, the prime minister's official residence, left, is seen next to the prime minister's office in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward. (Mainichi-Masahiro Kawata)

       TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan is considering not sending Cabinet ministers to next year's Beijing Olympics, in line with the U.S.-led diplomatic boycott amid rising criticism over China's human rights record, government and ruling coalition sources said Saturday.

       Japan's actions would see it side with the United States, along with countries such as Australia, Britain and Canada.

       France, however, has said it will send high-level officials to the Winter Olympics in February. Paris is due to host the Summer Games in 2024.

       Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has said Japan will decide on whether to join the diplomatic boycott after considering "national interests."

       The country has also apparently considered its decision in light of Beijing's support for Japan's hosting of last summer's Tokyo Olympics despite challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

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