Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• Japan's international nuclear cooperation
• Japan's future energy policy

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to ask a question in regard to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and nuclear power. Although Japan domestically is moving toward reducing dependency on nuclear power, in terms of overseas, Minister Edano stated in his press conference on September 4 that "it would be irresponsible for Japan not to cooperate." As his statement reflects, is my understanding correct that Japan will actively export nuclear equipment and technology internationally?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: With regard to international nuclear cooperation, including nuclear export, we believe it is important that Japan shares with the world our experience and lessons learned from last year's nuclear power accident. We believe it is Japan's role to contribute to the improvement of nuclear safety worldwide by making such efforts. On this basis, in principle, we believe there is meaning or significance in providing equipment and technologies with a high level of safety to partner countries and engaging in nuclear cooperation, if requested by countries, while keeping an eye on their situation and ensuring nuclear non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear power. From this standpoint, Japan will continue to promote nuclear cooperation with various countries, while bearing in mind the layers of past diplomatic negotiations and ensuring that the cooperation does not erode the bilateral trust that has been cultivated. I believe Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Edano made his comment in light of this basic understanding.

REPORTER: Concerning the new energy strategy, (abridged) what is your outlook regarding the timing of the compilation of the final strategy?

(Abridged)

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: We initially stated that the strategy would be compiled "by the end of August," and it is now the beginning of September. However, we have no intention of dragging this process on and on. Therefore, we are now working tirelessly to compile the Government's views as quickly as possible.

(Abridged)