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On February 6, 2020, the Prime Minister held a press conference at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence.
 
Regarding the passing of Ms. ARIMOTO Kayoko, the Prime Minister said,
 
“I have heard that Ms. ARIMOTO Kayoko, mother of Ms. ARIMOTO Keiko, passed away. I would like to offer prayers for the repose of her soul.
 
Yesterday I telephoned the husband of Ms. Arimoto to express my condolences. I first heard from Mr. and Ms. Arimoto when I was still working as a secretary for my father and over the long years since then we have fought together in attempts to bring back their daughter Keiko to Japan. I had heard that Ms. Arimoto was not in good health. It is truly a matter of greatest regret that we were unable to let Keiko return while Ms. Arimoto was still in good health.
 
As the family members of the abductees are getting older, I have renewed my determination to act decisively without missing out any opportunities. I would like to reiterate my heartfelt sympathies.”
 
Also, with regard to the abductions issue, the Prime Minister said,
 
“Regrettably, since the visit of then Prime Minister Koizumi to North Korea, or since the return of five abductees and subsequent return of their children or husband, we have not been able to realize the safe return of a single abductee. This is a matter of greatest regret. That is why I am resolved to not miss any chances and am determined to meet face-to-face with Chairman Kim Jong-Un without attaching any conditions.
 
Given the advancing years of the family members, I am resolved that my mission will not be at an end until the day comes when they can once again embrace their children in their own arms.”