Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The issue regarding Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations
• Informal consultation with North-Korea
• Alleviation of the burden placed on Okinawa by U.S. bases

REPORTER: I have a question regarding the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations. Ministerial-level talks are now taking place. Can you tell us what progress you have made so far?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: As of yesterday, Minister Amari stated that the two sides deepened their discussion. However, he also noted that there was still a certain gap in the views of the two sides and that they would carry out further discussion. Therefore, I imagine they are right in the middle of discussions.

REPORTER: I have a question regarding this gap you mentioned. Do you think you will be able to narrow the gap by the time Mr. Obama visits Japan at the end of this month?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA:That I do not really know. I understand U.S. Trade Representative Froman will be in Japan until around in this morning and that he and Minister Amari will continue to conduct negotiations until that time. I too would like to ask if the negotiations have resulted in a narrowing of the gap. However, at this moment in time, I have not received any information since yesterday.

REPORTER: According to some media reports, North Korea stated that it is ready to carry out a reinvestigation of the abductions during its informal consultations with Japan. Is this true?

CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I have absolutely no knowledge of this. I do not believe this to be true.

REPORTER: I have a related question. Since a few days ago, there has been a speculation that informal consultations were conducted on the 5th and 6th. From what you understand, is it true that the consultations were carried out?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I have no knowledge of this whatsoever and I do not believe this to be true. I am not aware of this and would like to refrain from commenting.

REPORTER: You said you do not believe this to be true. Then is my understanding correct that the talks were not held?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: That is what I believe.

REPORTER: I would like to follow up on this topic. Does this mean that North Korea has not changed its stance, and is maintaining that the abduction issue is already resolved?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I understand North Korea has maintained the exact same stance as in the past.

REPORTER: I have a question regarding the alleviation of the burden placed on Okinawa by U.S. bases. I would like to ask about the plan for land returns south of Kadena Air Base. This morning, the Okinawa Defense Bureau explained the basic plan to Yomitan Village, where Makiminato Service Area will be relocated. Meanwhile, some people in Yomitan Village are voicing their opposition, saying that the relocation will lead to the imposition of new burden by the base. My assumption is that the Government will need the understanding of the destinations to which the bases will be relocated, in order to steadily implement the plan. How will the Government try to gain their understanding?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Government will make every effort to alleviate the burden of bases on Okinawa. I believe it goes without saying that we will consult the local residents as we seek to move forward with the plan.

(Abridged)