Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The issue of coral poaching by Chinese vessels
• The issue regarding China’s advancement into the south China Sea

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to ask a question regarding the issue of coral poaching by Chinese vessels. There is a pervading view that this issue is not just an environmental issue about the overexploitation of coral, and that it is developing into a situation concerning maritime security as well as the security of the people in the Ogasawara Islands. As the coordinator within the Government, how do you analyze the current situation? How do you aim to resolve this situation?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, starting in mid-September this year, multiple Chinese fishing vessels believed to be coral poaching vessels have been sighted in waters surrounding the Ogasawara Islands. According to the Japan Coast Guard, more than 200 foreign vessels continue to be sighted in waters around the Ogasawara Islands and other areas. In order to resolutely respond to this situation, the Government is working with relevant ministries and agencies to fully crack down on the vessels. In fact, since last month, we have made five arrests. In addition, the Metropolitan Police Department has added 25 police officers to the Ogasawara police force in order to bolster its patrol activities. Through diplomatic channels in Tokyo and Beijing, Japan has repeatedly requested that China deal with the situation promptly and effectively. China has explained to us that it recognizes the seriousness of the matter and is taking concrete measures, including giving instructions to fishermen. The Japanese Government will continue to make such requests to China through a variety of channels, and strongly urge China to take prompt and effective measures to improve the situation.

REPORTER: I have a related question. Based on what you just stated, are you saying that you are beginning to see signs of a turnaround in the situation?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: China has explained to us that it recognizes the seriousness of the matter and is taking concrete measures, including giving instructions to fishermen. Japan will deal with the situation resolutely in accordance with relevant domestic laws and ordinances.

Excuse me. I mentioned earlier that the Metropolitan Police Department added 25 police officers to the Ogasawara police force, but the correct number is 28 officers.

REPORTER: I also have a question in connection with China. It is about the issue of China’s advancement into the South China Sea. In response to China’s moves, some ASEAN member states are endeavoring to establish a code of conduct that would legally bind China’s activities in the South China Sea. However, China has continued not to abide by this. I believe the Japanese Government has requested that China comply with international law. What is your assessment of these developments? 

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, we recognize that the issue of the South China Sea is directly related to peace and stability in the region, and is therefore a matter of concern for the entire international community, including Japan. Based on these circumstances, China must of course refrain from unilateral actions that raise tensions in other countries, and behave in accordance with the principle of the rule of law. In this sense, it is critically important to build order in this way. This has previously been Japan’s assertion. In any case, it is essential that countries pledge not to undertake unilateral actions associated with a permanent physical change. In order to establish the rule of law, Japan will continue to work with the United States and ASEAN member states to strongly urge China to play a more constructive and collaborative role in responding to regional and global challenges, in compliance with international norms and rules.

(Abridged)