Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The Japan-ROK relations

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I understand that Mr. Nikai, Chairman of the General Council of the Liberal Democratic Party, met with the President of the Republic of Korea (ROK). Could you please inform us of any details that the Government is aware of?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware that Mr. Nikai planned to pay a courtesy call on the President. However, I have yet to receive any detailed report regarding the specific outcomes of the meeting.

REPORTER: I believe Mr. Nikai had with him a letter from Prime Minister Abe. Could you tell us what was written in the letter?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: It is true that Prime Minister Abe entrusted Mr. Nikai with a letter. However, I would like to refrain from commenting on the details. In any case, I believe it is vital for Japan and the ROK to hold such close dialogues at a variety of levels, precisely because difficult issues exist between our two countries. As such, I hope that the courtesy call by Mr. Nikai will lead to further progress in Japan-ROK relations.

(Abridged)