Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Opening Statement by Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga

(Abridged)

H.E. Mr. Juan Orlando Hernández Alvarado, President of the Republic of Honduras, accompanied by his wife, will make a working visit to Japan from July 22 to 23. This visit to Japan will be the first in 10 years by a President of Honduras. During his stay, President Hernández is scheduled to make a State Call on Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan. Prime Minister Abe is also scheduled to hold a meeting with and host a dinner for the President. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Honduras and also the Japan-SICA Friendship Year 2015. Through this visit the Government wishes to further enhance bilateral relations and to promote cooperation in the international community.

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question on a different topic. Last weekend a Russian minister visited the island of Shikotan in the Northern Territories. Could I ask for the Government’s views and response to this visit?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Following the visit by the Russian Minister of Health on July 18, the Government lodged a protest noting its extreme regret to the Russian side, stating that such a visit by a senior Russian government official goes against the Government of Japan’s stance on the issue of the Northern Territories and is unacceptable. The Russian side reiterated the principles of Russia’s position on this issue and indicated that the contents of the protest lodged by the Government of Japan would be reported to the Government of Russia.

(Abridged)