Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The Japan-ROK relations
• The issue of the food safety imported from China

REPORTER: I have a question concerning Japan-Republic of Korea (ROK) relations. Today director-general level talks between the Japanese and ROK foreign ministries are being held in Seoul. This is the first time for these talks to take place since the announcement of the results of the study on the Kono Statement. How will the Government seek to explain the significance of the study and seek the understanding of the ROK, which has voiced strong opposition to the study report? Could I also ask for your thoughts on how the Government views the critical assertions being made by the ROK with regard to the study?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, the reaction of the ROK is extremely regrettable. The study was carried out based on a request received from the Diet, the legislature of Japan. Furthermore, in order to clarify the facts behind the process of the compilation of the Kono Statement an objective study was conducted based on the instructions of experts from various fields. I would like the Government of the ROK to view the results of the recent study in a calm manner.

REPORTER: On a related note, how will the Government explain the significance of the study and seek the understanding of the ROK side?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Whatever the case, the Japanese Government would like the Government of the ROK to view the results of the study in a calm manner. That is all.

REPORTER: I have a further related question. With a view to eliminating friction between Japan and the ROK concerning the comfort women issue, other than carefully explaining Japan’s position, is the Government considering any other measures that may reach a breakthrough over this issue?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Government is not considering any other measures.

REPORTER: I have a question concerning the incident in which a food processing plant in China used ingredients that were past their expiry date. The authorities in Shanghai have apparently arrested five people and are investigating the case. Is the Government aware of the facts of this matter?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware of the accounts by the press about this incident, although I have yet to receive any specific report. Whatever the case, through the Japanese embassy in Beijing and the Chinese embassy in Tokyo the Government is requesting the Chinese authorities to confirm the facts of the case and promptly discover the truth. At the same time the Government is also engaged in investigations to confirm the facts. It is of the utmost importance for the Government to continue to thoroughly gather information on this incident and also to construct a proper investigative structure that will ensure that the problematic food products do not enter Japan. The Government is therefore making every effort in that regard.