March 6, 2017 at 8:53
[Provisional Translation]

REPORTER: There is information that North Korea fired missiles. Some are speculating that they may have been intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM). Please tell us what you know, the damages caused, and the response of the Government going forward.

PRIME MINISTER ABE: Today, North Korea launched four ballistic missiles that landed in and near Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Japan will steadily collect and analyze information. In addition, Japan lodged a strong protest against North Korea. Today’s launches of ballistic missiles clearly represent a new threat from North Korea. North Korea has already stated that the missiles are a new type. I believe they made that statement prior to the launches. Japan will conduct analyses of the situation with serious concerns over such aspects. While the Diet is in session and a committee meeting will be held today, I will also be holding a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC).