Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to ask a question regarding global warming measures. At COP 21 (21st Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change), a think tank released a ranking of the global warming measures of different countries. Japan was ranked very poorly. The reasons included Japan’s promotion of coal-fired thermal power generation. Can you please share your comments? In addition, can you tell us what steps Japan will be taking to mitigate global warming?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, the Government will not comment on each and every activity of these organizations. Japan will of course be proactively engaged in measures to mitigate global warming. Furthermore, I perceive that Japan’s measures to date are of a level not at all inferior by international standards. At the ongoing COP 21, Japan will aim to realize a fair and effective international framework in which all countries can participate.

REPORTER: In his address yesterday, Minister for Foreign Affairs Kishida mentioned the refugee issue as being one of the items on the agenda of next year’s Ise-Shima Summit. At the same time, with regard to the issue of the flow of refugees into Europe, the Minister noted that Japan cannot discuss this issue from the same platform as other countries—European countries and the United States. Nevertheless, Japan is in a position to lead the discussions as the Chair. I imagine that the countries participating in the Summit may request Japan to take stepped-up measures for refugees. What is your view in this regard?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: At this point in time, I would like to refrain from discussing the details of next year’s event. As the Chair, Japan will be considering the agenda and other matters with the G7’s relevant countries. As a practical matter, there is the question of what Japan can do in terms of measures for refugees. As a matter of course, Japan will contribute through various ways, including humanitarian assistance and assistance for countries hosting refugees.