Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a related question. The terrorist attacks in France took place against the backdrop of strengthened security measures ahead of the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21), which is scheduled to take place at the end of this month. Japan is scheduled to host the G7 Ise-Shima Summit next year, so does the Government intend to strengthen domestic measures, including security measures?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Following the recent terrorist attacks, the Prime Minister has issued instructions for anti-terrorism measures within our country to be taken with a stronger sense of security. The Government has established an Information Liaison Office at the Prime Minister’s Office, which is coordinating with other related organizations, including the police force, to engage in such measures as the collection of domestic terrorism-related intelligence in Japan, thorough implementation of border controls, and strengthened security at important facilities, including the French Embassy, and large-scale public facilities. The Government will continue to make every effort across the nation to prevent terrorism. Japan is due to host the Rugby World Cup in 2019 and the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020. Furthermore, the Ise-Shima Summit is also scheduled to be held in Japan next year and as the host nation it will be necessary for Japan to take every possible measure to ensure security and implement counter-terrorism measures. Following the summit next year, there will be a succession of international sporting events held in Japan, such as the Rugby World Cup in 2019 and the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020. These recent terrorist attacks have strengthened our resolve to implement thorough counter-terrorism measures. The most important measures that will be implemented are strengthened efforts to collect and analyze intelligence, thorough border control measures, and enhanced patrols and security at important facilities. At the same time counter-terrorism training and procurement of the required materials and equipment will also be necessary. The Government will continue to engage in thorough counter-terrorism measures to ensure that the people of Japan can go about their daily lives with peace of mind.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a related question. In a meeting with other world leaders following the recent terrorist attacks, the Prime Minister has confirmed that Japan will strengthen cooperation with other nations to prevent terrorism. In specific terms, is the Government considering enhancing support measures for international efforts against terrorism?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, I believe that the most important measure in terrorism prevention is the collection of intelligence. Also, given that a terrorist attack on Japan by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) has taken place previously, in which Japanese nationals were murdered, we are already engaged in international efforts to collect intelligence. I think that it is only natural that we must continue to further enhance such efforts.

REPORTER: On a related note, I think that there may be some people who think that if Japan announces its support for the war on terror, there will be a heightened possibility of a terrorist attack in Japan. What is the Government’s view about such risks?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Terrorism absolutely cannot be tolerated for any reason. As such it is a matter of course that Japan resolutely condemns terrorism and works together with other countries to combat terrorism. This is something that will lead to the protection of the safety of the daily lives of the people of Japan.

(Abridged)
 
REPORTER: On a different topic I have a question about Japan-Russia relations. In the early hours of this morning, Japan time, Prime Minister Abe held a summit meeting with President Putin. With regard to the timing of President Putin’s visit to Japan it was confirmed that it would take place at an appropriate time and not necessarily by the end of the year. What is your view on this outcome?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, with regard to the status of preparations for a visit to Japan, my understanding is that comprehensive consideration is being given to the matter, taking into account a variety of factors, with the aim of determining an appropriate time. It has yet to be decided whether the visit will take place by the end of the year or early next year. In any event, a decision will be made after comprehensive consideration of a variety of factors.

(Abridged)