Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

JAPANESE

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question concerning the export of nuclear power station-related equipment. Although the bidding process for a project in Jordan is due to come to a close shortly, the Diet committee deliberations concerning nuclear power-related agreements are currently stalled. Under the New Growth Strategy prior to the disaster, nuclear power was positioned as one of the pillars for infrastructure export. What is the current status of the Government considerations on revising this policy?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY EDANO: I am aware that nuclear power-related agreements are comprehensive in nature, including other matters in addition to the export of infrastructure-related equipment. I do not think that Japan's position of actively promoting infrastructure export will change. With regard to the positioning of nuclear power stations in the context of infrastructure export, this is something for which a direction will be decided on the basis of considerations and revision of Japan's energy policy as a whole, in view of the situation following the accident.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: According to a number of press reports, the U.S. Ambassador to Japan Mr. John V. Roos yesterday visited the elementary school in Iwate Prefecture where the United States citizen who died in the tsunami used to teach. He offered his encouragement to the children there and engaged in volunteer activities. How does the Government view these steady activities on the part of various countries in the disaster-affected areas?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY EDANO: I myself have also read the reports about the activities of Ambassador Roos. A wide range of people from various countries, including Ambassador Roos, have expressed their concern about the disaster and have provided the benefit of their support in a variety of ways. Since the disaster, in my capacity as Chief Cabinet Secretary I have met with a number of overseas guests at the Prime Minister's Office. Yesterday I met with a representative of the Korea Democratic Party. Prior to that, I met with a representative of a United States think tank. Many of these visitors have not only come to Japan, but have taken the trouble to visit the disaster-affected areas and have expressed their strong concerns and worries and offered support in a variety of ways. This is something for which we are truly grateful and no matter how many times we repeat our thanks it will not be sufficient. In particular, I would like to thank Ambassador Roos personally at the next opportunity I have a chance to meet him, for his various efforts in the disaster-affected areas.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: As for the Genkai Nuclear Power Station, Governor of Saga Prefecture Furukawa has stated in a press conference that he had received an explanation from Minister Kaieda that safety at the power station had been confirmed, and indicated a flexible stance on the part of the local government with regard to the restarting of operations at the nuclear power station. How does the Government view the governor's comments?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY EDANO: Today, Minister Kaieda visited Saga Prefecture and provided explanations about safety measures to leaders of prefectural and municipal governments. I am aware that on the basis of these explanations the local government assemblies will be giving the matter further consideration. As I have not directly heard the full statement by the Governor of Saga Prefecture, including its context, I do not think I should make any off-the-cuff remarks. I believe that it is important to gain the understanding of local residents by providing explanations about safety.

REPORTER: On a related note, will the Prime Minister be heading out to visit local governments that are home to nuclear power stations?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY EDANO: It is necessary for the Government to make efforts to gain the understanding of the local governments and local residents. However, in the first instance it is Minister Kaieda who is the minister with jurisdiction over this matter, and I believe that at the current stage it is he who is making every effort to gain the understanding of local governments and residents.