Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: In a press conference the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea (ROK) has stated that it would likely be difficult for the leaders of both Japan and the ROK to attend a ceremony to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The spokesperson also referred to the possibility of sending a message by President Park Geun-hye. Could you comment on the facts behind these statements?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Given that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations, in the first instance Mr. Yun Byung-se, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the ROK is scheduled to visit Japan. It has yet to be decided whether Minister Yun will make a courtesy call on Prime Minister Abe. The meeting between Minister for Foreign Affairs Kishida and Minister Yun is scheduled to take place on June 21. It is expected that the ministers will engage in an exchange of opinions on Japan-ROK relations, North Korean issues, and challenges facing the region and the international community.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: On a related note, as this is Minister Yun’s first visit to Japan, I expect that the comfort women issue will most likely be discussed. In this press conference and in other fora, you have consistently stated that Japan’s stance remains unchanged. However, unless one side or another makes some kind of accommodation this issue is likely to remain unresolved. Given the opportunity provided by the visit of Minister Yun to Japan, is the Government prepared to make some kind of compromise, or will it continue to maintain its basic stance?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Japan and the ROK share various issues. I believe that in their meeting the foreign ministers will engage in exchanges of opinions on such matters as North Korean issues and challenges facing the region and the international community. Naturally there will be various discussions and both sides will continue to engage persistently in consultations with regard to the concerns and issues that exist between our two countries.

(Abridged)