Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The issue related to the allegedly a separate unit under the Ground Staff Office
• The issue related to Air Defense Identification Zone established by China

(Abridged)

REPORTER: Within the Ground Self-Defense Force, there is allegedly a separate unit under the Ground Staff Office's Operational Support and Intelligence Department. It has come to light that since the Cold War era, without notifying the Prime Minister or the Director General of  then the Japan Defense Agency Director General - this unit had established bases based on their own judgment in a number of countries, including Russia, China, and the Republic of Korea. The unit had Self-Defense Force (SDF) personnel assuming false identities carry out intelligence activities. What facts are you aware of this matter?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, I am aware of the media reports. However, regarding the details, I would like to ask you to contact the Ministry of Defense (MOD). I believe Minister Onodera has given a press conference. On that note, I was informed by the MOD that the reported organization has never existed inside the SDF, and does not exist currently either. In any case, my understanding is that intelligence collection by the MOD and SDF is carried out appropriately within the scope of their duties under their jurisdiction, in accordance with the relevant laws and ordinances.

REPORTER: Regarding China's Air Defense Identification Zone, yesterday, talks were held between the Japanese Defense Minister and the Secretary of Defense of the U.S. What did the Government's thought on the talks? Also, can you please tell us what steps the Japanese Government will be taking?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: You mean yesterday's telephone talks?

REPORTER: Yes.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Minister of Defense Onodera and U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel held talks. The two sides shared the view that China's unilateral establishment of such a zone constitutes an act that may cause unintended consequences and undermines the stability of the region. They agreed that Japan and the U.S. would respond firmly but in a calm manner against China's attempt to alter the status quo in the region, and would  further cooperate closely with one another to address this matter. I understand that this was the context in which the defense ministers' talks took place.

REPORTER: What about the steps Japan will be taking?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: In any case, Japan's position has been made clear. Japan of course will, in close partnership with the U.S. and other relevant countries, fully assert its views to China.

(Abridged)