Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The issues related to the situation in Ukraine
• The issue related to the data leakage from Toshiba to a company in the Republic of Korea
• The issue related to the vandalism of copies of The Diary of Anne Frank

(Abridged)　

REPORTER: I would like to ask a question concerning the situation in Ukraine. The G7 leaders issued a joint statement on March 12 which said, among other things, that the referendum scheduled to take place on March 16 would have no legal effect. The leaders also called on Russia to exercise self-restraint in Ukraine. Could you once again share with us what in particular the Japanese Government believes the issue is? Could you also provide us with an explanation as to the significance of issuing a statement at this juncture?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Japanese Government's consistent position and assertion is that we hope that the situation will be resolved through dialogue. Furthermore, with regard to the attempt to divide Ukraine, we urge all parties concerned to maintain the territorial integrity of the country. This is our basic stance. We are currently making maximum effort to address this situation while keeping in step with the other G7 nations. We will continue to keep a close eye on the development of the situation.

REPORTER: I understand that initially there was a difference in the sentiment expressed toward Russia by the various G7 nations, and also within the EU itself. Do you believe that on this occasion the G7 nations are now acting as one?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The G7 leaders issued a joint statement and the issuance of said statement was the result of considerable  coordination. Therefore, in my view the G7 countries are working in step with one another.
REPORTER: I have a question on the same topic. The joint statement refers to the possibility of taking further action, individually and collectively. What specific measures does the Japanese Government have in mind?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: For now, we will keep a close eye on the development of the situation.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: A man was arrested for allegedly giving confidential data from Toshiba to a company in the Republic of Korea. Could you once again share with us the Government's thoughts and what the Government plans to do?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, although I am aware of this incident, I would like to refrain from commenting on individual issues like this on behalf of the Government. However, generally speaking it is extremely important for Japan, a technology-oriented nation, to thoroughly prevent the leaking of valuable technology and to ensure appropriate protection. In light of this, the Government highlights the importance of initiatives to strengthen the protection of trade secrets in the Intellectual Property Policy Vision, which was announced last June. The Government will work as one to thoroughly pursue these initiatives and ensure that such incidents do not occur again.

(Abridged)　

REPORTER: I have a question in relation to the vandalism of copies of The Diary of Anne Frank. A man who was arrested on suspicion of trespassing has apparently confessed to vandalizing the books. Could you share your thoughts with us?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, as the incident is still under investigation I must refrain from commenting on behalf of the Government at this time. However, this kind of crime is extremely disgraceful. The police have formed an investigation team and are currently conducting an exhaustive investigation. I hope that all aspects of the incident will be made clear as soon as possible.

(Abridged)