TOKYO, May 2 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks ended higher Friday, led by export-linked issues on a weaker yen and hopes for progress in ongoing tariff talks between Japan and the United States.
Japan's benchmark Nikkei stock index, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average, ended up 378.39 points, or 1.04 percent, from Thursday at 36,830.69, its highest level since March 28.
The broader Topix index, meanwhile, finished 8.34 points, or 0.31 percent, higher at 2,687.78.
The U.S. dollar briefly strengthened to the upper 145 yen range in Tokyo, as investors speculate that the Bank of Japan will be cautious about additional rate hikes amid global economic uncertainty stemming from U.S. tariffs.
On the stock market, the Japanese currency's depreciation attracted buying of export-oriented auto and chemical shares, while sentiment was also supported by anticipation of progress in Japan-U.S. tariff talks after Tokyo's chief negotiator Ryosei Akazawa expressed hope an agreement could be reached in June, analysts said. ■
