Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Opening Statement by Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: H.E. Mr. Issoufou Mahamadou, President of the Republic of Niger, will make a working visit to Japan from June 18 to 21. This will be the first visit to Japan by a head of state from Niger in 29 years. During his stay in Japan, President Issoufou will make a State Call on His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. Prime Minister Abe is also scheduled to hold a meeting with and host a dinner for President Issoufou. Through President Issoufou’s visit to Japan, Japan hopes to deepen its partnership with Niger aimed at peace and stability in Africa’s Sahel region and promote bilateral cooperation at international fora.

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question regarding Japan-Republic of Korea (ROK) relations. June 22 of next week will mark the 50th anniversary of the normalization of Japan-ROK diplomatic relations. On this milestone date, do you consider that Japan needs to present some kind of breakthrough on the “comfort women” issue, which is something the ROK is seeking?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: As of now, discussions have taken place, including at the recent director-general level consultations. As for the basic position of Japan, our efforts to date are as we have explained, and we will continue to explain them persistently. I believe that is all there is to it. 

REPORTER: I have one more question. The Japanese and ROK embassies in the ROK and Japan, respectively, are scheduled to hold commemorative events on the 22nd. At this point in time, who is scheduled to attend from the Japanese side? 

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am of course aware that the Japanese and ROK embassies will hold such commemorative events in Seoul and Tokyo, respectively. As of now, nothing has been decided regarding the details, including the attendance of government officials at the events.