Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to change the subject. Yesterday, a meeting was held in Paris among ministers and others from 60 countries to discuss measures for protecting ethnic minorities in the Middle East from persecution by the extremist group, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). From Japan, a Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs attended the meeting. I understand that the meeting adopted an action plan that contains approximately 60 response measures. Can you once again explain what Japan’s role will be in implementing this action plan?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, the meeting you spoke of was held in Paris. Specifically, it was the International Conference on the Victims of Ethnic and Religious Violence in the Middle East. From Japan, as you just noted, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Kentaro Sonoura attended and delivered a speech on behalf of the Government of Japan. During the meeting, the Action Plan was adopted. It outlines important efforts, including support for housing, education, health, women, and children. As these are areas that Japan excels in, we intend to proactively address these areas in a way that reflects the unique strengths of Japan, based on the outcomes of the meeting. In view of the current situation, Japan hopes that the United Nations will steadily tackle the situation by taking on a central role and demonstrating leadership.