Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• Ambassador to China Nishimiya's condition
• Discussions with UK and French Ambassadors

(Abridged)

REPORTER: With regard to Ambassador Nishimiya, it appears that the ambassador collapsed while outside and is in a worrying condition. What information have you received about this?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: I will give you the facts of this matter as I have heard them. Ambassador Nishimiya was found collapsed outside in Shoto, Shibuya Ward and was taken to hospital by ambulance. He is currently in hospital and there are no further details at the present. From the perspective of privacy, I will refrain from further comment at this time.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: It appears that the ambassador had collapsed outside, but is there anything to suggest there were other factors involved?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: My understanding is that he collapsed after becoming unwell and is now in hospital.

REPORTER: It would appear that a maritime survey vessel from Taiwan has today passed through waters in proximity to the Senkaku Islands. What is the reaction of the Government to this passage? Also, I have a question concerning spent nuclear fuel. The Government has today held talks with the governments of the United Kingdom and France. Could you tell us the content of the discussions?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: With regard to the vessel from Taiwan, the Government will continue to monitor the situation and collect information. With regard to talks with the United Kingdom (UK) and France, the French ambassador is scheduled to visit today. The UK ambassador visited two days ago and discussions did take place concerning spent nuclear fuel. I noted that in order not to detract from the relations of trust between Japan and the UK, the Government will give thorough consideration to the matter of spent nuclear fuel.

(Abridged)