Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• Japan's response to the situation in North Korea

REPORTER: With regard to a missile launch by North Korea, the Government of the Republic of Korea (ROK) has stated a view that a missile launch is possible on or around April 10, which is tomorrow. Does the Government of Japan share this view?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Government of Japan is responding to the North Korean issue in close cooperation with the United States and the ROK and will make every possible effort to ensure the safety and security of the public.

REPORTER: The spokesperson of North Korea's Asia-Pacific Peace Committee has issued a statement advising foreigners and foreign organizations in the ROK to leave the country or evacuate, noting that in the event that a conflict should erupt it does not wish foreigners in the ROK to fall victim to damage. What is the reaction of the Government to this statement and what measures will be made to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals in the ROK?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware of these press reports. It is extremely regrettable that North Korea continues to persist in engaging in provocative words and actions. As I have just noted, Japan will not allow North Korea's provocative words and actions to affect our judgment and will continue to cooperate closely with the ROK and the United States in making a response.

REPORTER: You have just mentioned that the Government will not allow North Korea's provocative words and actions to affect its judgment, but at the current stage does the Government intend to implement any specific response measures relating to the safety of Japanese nationals in the ROK?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Government is making a response in close cooperation with the ROK and the United States.

REPORTER: With regard to North Korea, in the event that a missile is launched, what plans are being considered by the Government for a reporting and notification structure and how information should be provided?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: As I have stated for the past few days, the Government is making every possible effort to ensure the safety and security of the public. At the same time, as I mentioned, we are also continuing to engage in close cooperation with countries concerned, primarily the United States and the ROK. Various diplomatic channels are being used to strongly urge North Korea to refrain from provocative actions and make it understand that such actions are of absolutely no benefit.

(Abridged)