Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

(Abridged)

Q&As

REPORTER: The Prime Minister had been considering visiting the affected areas in Miyagi and Iwate within the year. What is the current status of these considerations?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: He did not make an official announcement, but it is true that he was planning to visit. The Prime Minister was planning to visit Miyagi, Iwate, and other areas within the coming days in order to assess the latest situation at the affected areas. However, I hear that his visit has been postponed in order to ensure a seamless response by the Government in light of the news of the death of North Korean National Defense Commission Chairman Kim Jong-Il. I hear that he still intends to visit the affected areas, including Fukushima Prefecture, as soon as possible.

(Abridged)