Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: A ministerial meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) was held after the Prime Minister returned to Japan. I understand that the terrorist attacks in Paris were the theme of the meeting. Were there any instructions from the Prime Minister? Or was anything confirmed at the meeting?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Today, the four ministers’ meeting of the NSC was held. It was convened shortly after the Prime Minister returned to Japan. Discussion took place on the terrorist attacks in Paris. The Prime Minister instructed that every effort continue to be made to prevent terrorism in cooperation with the international community. In addition, the Prime Minister instructed that all possible measures be taken to ensure the security of Japanese nationals in Japan and overseas, and to counter terrorism. That is all.

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REPORTER: I have a question in regard to these counterterrorism measures. Prime Minister Manuel Valls of France stated that another terrorist attack could occur. In addition, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) circulated a video saying that its next target was Washington, D.C. Amid the rising threat and concerns of terrorism worldwide, have you received any intelligence suggesting that ISIL could actually conduct a terrorist attack in Japan?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: In the wake of the recent terrorist attacks, Japan is taking thorough responses to ensure the security of Japanese people by first enhancing the collection of international terrorism intelligence, steadily implementing border control measures, and providing security at large facilities where many people gather. At the same time, we are undertaking preparations to establish a unit for international intelligence gathering. We hope to accelerate these efforts, and we will fully commit ourselves to maintaining the security of Japanese nationals domestically and abroad.

(Abridged)