Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• Japan-China relations

REPORTER: Yesterday the second Japan-China summit meeting took place. Could you tell us about the significance of the meeting and your evaluation of it?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Yesterday a summit meeting was held between Prime Minister Abe and President Xi Jinping of China. Both leaders confirmed that Japan-China relations have been heading in a positive direction and affirmed their mutual intention to further various levels of dialogue and exchange, including intergovernmental exchanges, to build upon these positive developments in bilateral relations. Both leaders also confirmed that the sound development of bilateral relations between Japan and China will benefit the people of both countries, and agreed that the promotion of the mutually beneficial relationship based on common strategic interests is necessary for and will contribute to regional and world stability, and prosperity. In my view it was a most significant meeting.

(Abridged)