Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: It has been formally announced that the United States and Cuba have formally re-established diplomatic relations. Can I ask for the Government’s thoughts on this announcement?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, the Government welcomes the announcement that the United States and Cuba are to re-establish diplomatic relations. As Minister for Foreign Affairs Kishida conveyed to his counterpart at the Japan-Cuba Foreign Ministers’ Meeting that was conducted recently, the Government of Japan supports efforts to improve relations between the United States and Cuba. We expect that the relations between the two countries will progress and contribute to further stability and prosperity of the region based on this recent announcement.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: President Putin of Russia has signed a bill into law that prohibits drift net fishing for salmon and trout in Russia’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Can I ask for the reaction of the Government to this matter?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Government has strongly urged the Russian side at all levels of government, including frequent calls on President Putin by Prime Minister Abe, to ensure that Japanese fishery operators can continue go about their business. It is extremely regrettable that notwithstanding these calls made by Japan, the bill has been passed into law. The Japan-Russia agreement on salmon and trout fishing, which forms the basis for salmon and trout fishing operations within 200 nautical miles of Japan have not been broken off, and the Government of Japan will continue to take an appropriate response, seeking cooperation based on the agreement. Given that salmon and trout drift net fishing by Japanese vessels in Russian waters is one of the major marine industries that supports the local economy in eastern Hokkaido, the Government is concerned that this law will have a severe impact on local industries concerned. In coordination with the area concerned, the Government will immediately dispatch officials responsible for fisheries issues to assess the local situation. In addition, listening to the wishes and opinions of persons concerned, the related ministries and agencies will cooperate to implement all possible countermeasures.

(Abridged)