Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: It seems that the international hacking group Anonymous posted a message on Twitter claiming responsibility for the cyberattack against the personal website of the Prime Minister. Is this true?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The personal website of Prime Minister Abe has become extremely difficult to access, and this situation still remains. As of now, it has not been determined that it was an attack by Anonymous. However, I have been informed that the statement you referred to was released. The police have been consulted about the damage, and are currently investigating the case. I believe the police will be taking appropriate responses, including conducting a log analysis and other such measures.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to change the subject. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), which aimed to have the “AKATSUKI” enter the orbit that circles around Venus, announced that it successfully inserted the climate orbiter into the orbit. This is the first time that a Japanese climate orbiter has entered an orbit that circles a planet other than the Earth. After five years since the first try, the second try was successful. Can you please share your comments?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: In any case, yesterday I was informed that the successful entry was confirmed. AKATSUKI will be making observations of the atmosphere of Venus. Indeed, it is welcome news that on the second try, JAXA overcame the previous failure and successfully inserted the climate orbiter into the orbit. I expect that JAXA will continue to overcome various hurdles that may stand in its way and successfully accomplish its missions.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question regarding COP 21 (21st Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change). At COP 21, discussions are still going on over the new framework that will succeed the Kyoto Protocol. Issues remain over financial assistance for developing countries, among other matters. What are Japan’s expectations looking ahead to tomorrow, the final day of the session?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, the President’s proposal reflects the outcomes of the ministerial-level and other discussions that have taken place thus far. The proposal has narrowed down the choices to some extent. However, key issues still remain, including differences in obligations between developed and developing countries and assistance for developing countries. I understand that ministerial-level negotiations are continuing. Japan will continue to make proactive efforts to be able to agree on a fair and effective international framework in which all countries participate.