Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question regarding Japan-Russia relations. The Russian Transport Minister has visited Kunashiri Island. Can I ask you for the Government’s thoughts on this matter? 

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: There has been a string of visits by Russian officials of late, and these visits by government officials run counter to Japan’s stance toward this territorial issue and aggrieve the feelings of the Japanese people, and the Japanese Government finds them unacceptable. Such visits are extremely regrettable, and we have lodged a protest and communicated to the Russian side Japan’s fundamental position.

REPORTER: You mentioned it just now, but there have been a string of visits by cabinet ministers since Prime Minister Medvedev’s visit in August. Is there no concern that this situation may cast a damper on what is believed to be the amicable relationship between Prime Minister Abe and President Putin?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, I don’t believe we are in a position to comment on the intentions of the Russian side. The schedules for a visit to Japan by President Putin and a visit to Russia by Minister for Foreign Affairs Kishida are entirely undecided at this point, and we would like to consider a variety of factors in a comprehensive way while deliberating on this matter.

REPORTER: I have a question about the Syrian refugee situation. Several countries, including Australia and New Zealand, have announced that they will be accepting more refugees. Is the Japanese government thinking of considering relaxing the standards for the certifying of refugees?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Up until now, Japan has responded to the issue of refugees in coordination with the global community. The Government is also aware of the stream of refugees entering Europe. Although we are not at present considering any additional concrete assistance measures, we believe that it is of the utmost importance to implement measures to deal with this problem, and would therefore like to continue working together with the global community to address this issue.