Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question regarding the “Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant” (ISIL). According to parts of the media, Turkey was already aware of the location where Mr. Goto and Mr. Yukawa were being held hostage, and had notified the Japanese Government beforehand. Could you please inform us of the facts?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I believe Foreign Minister Kishida was asked a similar question during a meeting of the Audit Committee of the House of Councillors today. I am aware of the reports, but as Minister Kishida explained in his answer, the Government did have access to a variety of information, but in the interest of preserving our relationships of trust with those who provided us with information, we would like to refrain from going into any details. That is all.

(Abridged)