Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The greetings exchanged between Prime Minister Abe and Premier Li Kequiang of China
• The efforts to engage in dialogue with the ROK and China

REPORTER: It would appear that in Milan (at the Asia-Europe Meeting), Prime Minister Abe stood with Premier Li Keqiang of China and the two leaders exchanged greetings for the first time. Could you tell us the facts behind such reports?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware that such a greeting took place. That is all.

REPORTER: What was the content of the greetings that were exchanged?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I have not heard anything specific. However, I have heard that as they were seated next to each other in the meeting they exchanged greetings.

REPORTER: I have a related question. Deputy Prime Minister Aso is scheduled to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers’ Meeting next week. Would you say that the two sides are in the process of laying the groundwork towards a Japan-China summit meeting at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in November, which is something the Government is aiming to realize?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I would have thought it only natural for Deputy Prime Minister Aso to attend this meeting in his capacity as Minister of Finance.

REPORTER: I have a further related question. There are reports that in Milan the Prime Minister had the opportunity to shake the hand of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea (ROK). Although there are currently no apparent prospects for the Prime Minister to speak with President Park Geun-hye, how will the Government try to ensure that these efforts to engage in dialogue with the ROK and China help realize summit meetings at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: We are continuing to hold various meetings at the foreign minister level and also between other ministers, so we will have to wait and see what becomes of such dialogues.

(Abridged)