Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Opening Statement by Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga
(Abridged)

Q&As

REPORTER: I have a question concerning the general election in Myanmar. Although the results of voting have yet to be confirmed, it appears that the opposition party led by Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi is in a commanding position. If a change of administration were to be realized it would represent a great step forward for democratization in Myanmar. Can I ask for the thoughts of the Government on the election in Myanmar?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, I am aware of the press reports with regard to this matter. On the other hand, as of November 9, the Union Election Commission (UEC) of Myanmar has only announced the results in a portion of the constituencies and the Government would therefore like to wait until the election results are confirmed. In any event, the Government of Japan has built up cooperative relations with representatives of both the current ruling and opposition parties in Myanmar and we will continue to maintain and enhance such relations.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: On a related note, what is your view with regard to the fact that the election in Myanmar has proceeded without any major incident or upheaval?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, I have received reports that voting in the general election in Myanmar took place in a generally peaceful environment. In that sense, although the election results have yet to be confirmed, the Government would like to welcome the peaceful implementation of the election as an important step toward democratization in Myanmar. The Government of Japan has dispatched an election observer mission to Myanmar, which is headed by Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, Special Envoy of the Government of Japan for National Reconciliation in Myanmar. The mission has confirmed that the election was conducted in a free and fair manner and the Government hopes that this will lead to further democratization and various reforms in Myanmar. The Government will continue to engage in measures to assist reforms being implemented in Myanmar.

(Abridged)