Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The Japan-Russia relationship
• The Japan-France Defense Ministers Meeting

(Abridged)

REPORTER: It has been reported that today Russia’s Foreign Minister commented that Japan’s recent additional sanctions on Russia will inevitably deal a blow to the overall bilateral relationship. Is the Government aware of these comments? Could you also share the Government’s thoughts?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware of these comments. However, it is only natural for Japan to pursue its relationship with Russia in a manner that contributes to Japan’s own national interests. In light of this, at this point in time, nothing has been decided with regard to the expected visit of President Putin to Japan. As I said this morning we would like to explore the possibility of his visit after comprehensive consideration of various elements. There is no change in this stance.

REPORTER: I would like to change the subject somewhat. At today’s Japan-France Defense Ministers Meeting, Minister of Defense Onodera stated to Minister of Defense Le Drian his strong concern over the fact that France has concluded an agreement to sell Russia two amphibious assault ships. Does this mean that Minister of Defense Onodera expressed the Government’s stance of opposition against this sale, similar to the United States and the United Kingdom?  

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware that Minister of Defense Onodera made this statement during the Japan-France Defense Ministers Meeting. As a representative of the Government, I would like to refrain from going into any more detail out of respect for Japan’s diplomatic relationships, and other factors. 

REPORTER: My question is related to this. Minister Onodera was asked if his concerns were due to the fact that Japan believes that France should not sell the ships in question to Russia. He confirmed that this was the case. Could you please comment on this? 

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware that Minister Onodera made this comment, but in my position as Chief Cabinet Secretary I would like to refrain from commenting again with further details.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: According to media reports, a UK court has ordered that the child of a Japanese national to be returned to Japan under the Hague Convention. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says this is the first time that such an order has been issued for a child of a Japanese national. Have you heard about this case? 

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Yes. It is not the Government’s position to comment on a court ruling made in the United Kingdom. I believe that this decision is in line with the Hague Convention which requires the return of children that were wrongfully taken out from a country.

(Abridged)