Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question concerning Japan-China relations. It will be exactly three years tomorrow since the nationalization of the Senkaku Islands. In comparison with the initial period following the nationalization, what is the Government’s analysis and evaluation of the current response being made by China with regard to this issue?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, the Senkaku Islands are an inherent part of the territory of Japan, in light of historical facts and based upon international law. Indeed, the Senkaku Islands are under the valid control of the Government of Japan. Accordingly, there is no issue of territorial sovereignty to be resolved concerning the Senkaku Islands. This is the concept of the Government. It is highly regrettable that China continues to enter Japan’s territorial waters. The Government will continue with determination to defend resolutely its territorial land, sea and airspace and will respond firmly but in a calm manner, with all related government ministries and agencies working together with a sense of urgency to engage in surveillance and patrols of the Senkaku Islands and collect information.