Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The issue related to the opening ceremony of the Winter Paralympic Games
• The issue related to the naming of the Sea of Japan
• The issue related to the Trans-Pacific Partnership

REPORTER: I would like to confirm something that was said during questions and answers in the House of Representatives Budget Committee. Earlier, when asked whether he intended to attend the opening ceremony in March for the Winter Paralympic Games, Prime Minister Abe responded that although there are the Diet schedule and other circumstances to take into account, he would like to consider in what way he might be able to attend the opening ceremony. Is there a possibility that the Prime Minister will actually attend the opening ceremony?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I do not believe that was what he said. I was there myself and from what I heard, I think that what the Prime Minister said was that he would consider what kind of a response the Government could make. So I believe his comment was that he would like to consider what kind of response would be possible.

REPORTER: To confirm, does that mean someone other than the Prime Minister will travel to Sochi?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: In a sense, the Paralympic Games is an event that does a great deal to promote the independence and social participation of persons with disabilities and also deepens understanding about various types of disability. As such, the Government recognizes that it is an event that has great significance. I think that is why the Prime Minister stated that he would like to consider what kind of response the Government can make regarding the opening ceremony, which is on March 7, given that the Diet will also be in session.

REPORTER: I have a question concerning the naming of the Sea of Japan. In the State of New Jersey in the United States, a bill was submitted that would newly require the sole use of the Korean name for the Sea of Japan. These kinds of moves have been occurring in succession in states where the number of residents of Korean origin are increasing. Can I ask for your thoughts with regard to this series of moves and also what the Government's response will be?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, the name Sea of Japan is the only internationally established name for the sea area concerned. In this context, the federal government of the United States also supports the sole use of the name Sea of Japan. As such, it is extremely regrettable that moves such as those you mentioned are taking place in the United States. The Government will continue to make various robust responses through various diplomatic channels and other means, and will call strongly for correct understanding and support from the international community regarding the name of the Sea of Japan.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: There are press reports that Minister in charge of Economic Revitalization Amari is to make an urgent visit to Washington D.C., where he will engage in talks with the United States Trade Representative (USTR) on a way to achieve a breakthrough in the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations. Can we have your comments on this matter, including the facts behind these reports?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I have not yet heard that a visit by Minister Amari to the United States has been decided. As the Diet is currently in session, I believe that a visit would be contingent on the status of Diet affairs.

(Abridged)