Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: It has been reported that a “comfort women” museum will be built in Taiwan this year. I imagine that the museum, if completed, will have major international impact as the first facility of its kind in Taiwan. What is your view regarding this? In addition, when did the Government become aware of this information? Upon becoming aware of this, did the Government take any action? Can you please elaborate on these points?    

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: If this develops into a full-fledged plan, then the Government will of course utilize various channels to carefully explain to Taiwan Japan’s position, in which incompatible with this plan, and make efforts to have it cancelled.

REPORTER: With regard to North Korea’s intention to continue launching satellites, a Senior Advisor to the U.S. Secretary of State stated during her press briefing on the 4th that the launch, if executed, would constitute a clear violation of United Nations resolutions on North Korean sanctions. It appears that North Korea is preparing to conduct a launch to coincide with the 70th anniversary of the Workers’ Party of Korea in October. Can you once again explain the views of the Government?  

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, we are gathering and analyzing intelligence from peacetime, paying maximum attention to these developments in North Korea. However, due to the nature of this matter, I would like to refrain from responding about the details.

In any case, the Security Council resolutions ban all North Korean launches that utilize ballistic missile technology. The Government will continue to work with countries such as the United States and the Republic of Korea to strongly urge North Korea to refrain from such provocative actions and comply with the relevant Security Council resolutions.  

(Abridged)