Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The Japan-China maritime communication mechanism
• The issue of abductions

REPORTER: I have a question that also came up in this morning’s press conference, concerning the Japan-China maritime communication mechanism. In the recent consultations that took place yesterday, January 12, I believe that agreement was reached on the formulation of a shared code of conduct. Could you clarify the facts of this matter?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: As I noted this morning, I have received a report that at the recent consultations discussions took place relating to maritime and aviation communication mechanisms between the defense authorities of Japan and China, and also on technical issues. I also understand that the two sides reached a common recognition about such matters and agreed to make efforts to put such a mechanism into operation in the near term, after having made the necessary arrangements based on the outcomes of these consultations. The consultations provided a forum for a frank exchange of opinions. That is an overview of the outcome of the recent consultations, but I would like to refrain from going into any further detail as this is a matter that concerns bilateral relations.

REPORTER: Press reports are suggesting that the target for operation of such a mechanism is summer this year. Do you have any information on this point?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The two sides agreed to work together towards the operation of such a mechanism. I would like to refrain from going into any further detail as this is a matter that concerns bilateral relations.

REPORTER: This morning Mr. Shigeo Iizuka, the head of the Association of the Families of Victims Kidnapped by North Korea, met with Minister Yamatani, Minister in charge of the Abduction Issue. In the meeting he referred to the fact that the report of the Special Investigation Committee of North Korea has been delayed and requested that the Government set a deadline for its submission. Does the Government intend to consider the imposition of such a deadline?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: To begin with, the Government has strongly indicated to the persons responsible for the Special Investigation Committee and investigation teams of North Korea that the abduction issue is a top priority for Japan. Rather than setting a deadline for the receipt of a report, the Government has strongly demanded that North Korea engage swiftly in investigations and report the results of those investigations without delay. Given that the abduction issue is a top priority for the Abe administration the Government is engaged in diligent efforts to achieve results, through a process of dialogue and pressure, and based on the principle of action for action. In any event, the Government is constantly appraising the ways in which we can most effectively engage in negotiations with North Korea and will continue to respond based on such considerations.

(Abridged)