Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question regarding U.S. fiscal policy. The Federal Reserve Board (FRB) is to open a meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee today, and the world is watching closely to see if a decision is made to end the policy of keeping the interest rate practically at zero and begin raising it. Although it is another country’s fiscal policy, it is thought that a rise in the interest rate would have a considerable impact on Japan’s economy and the global economy as well. What are the Government's thoughts on today’s meeting?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware that there have been discussions relating to the direction of fiscal policy, including the policy interest rate. As this relates to the fiscal policy of another country I would like to refrain from commenting, except to say that we hope that any action taken is appropriately suited to economic trends. Be that as it may, we will be watching this matter with great interest.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question regarding Japan-Russia relations. Some media reports are stating that Nikolai Patrushev, the Secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council, will be visiting Japan at the end of this month. There are also media reports that say Minister for Foreign Affairs Kishida is to visit Moscow. Could you please tell us whether these reports are correct?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, I am not aware of any planned visit by the Secretary mentioned in those reports. With regard to the visit by Minister for Foreign Affairs Kishida, the schedule is still entirely undecided, and there is no change to the Government’s stance of making a decision that comprehensively takes all factors into account.

(Abridged)