Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As 

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to ask a question in regard to the trial of the former Sankei Shimbun Seoul Bureau Chief that is being held in Seoul, Republic of Korea (ROK). The court is expected to make its ruling shortly. Can you once again explain the opinion of the Japanese Government regarding this trial?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, the Government has thus far communicated its concerns to the ROK Government from the standpoint of freedoms of the press and expression and Japan-ROK relations, repeatedly and in various ways, and has requested appropriate responses. The trial has been in session since 2 PM today. The presiding judge is currently discussing the charges. At this point in time I would like to refrain from making any further comments.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: The United States has alert levels based on the National Terrorism Advisory System. The advisories have never been issued since the system was launched in 2011. However, in response to the recent terrorist attacks, the United States has decided to add one more alert level to communicate appropriate information to the people. While this is just an example from another country, what are the Japanese Government’s intentions with regard to issuing these kinds of terrorism advisories to the people?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, what is important above all in counter-terrorism measures is to obtain intelligence in coordination with the international community and prevent terrorism incidents from occurring. This is critically important. Therefore, following the recent terrorist attacks in Paris, Japan has used the reserve fund to establish the Counter Terrorism Unit - Japan (CTU-J) much earlier than scheduled. In this way, Japan is working to gather intelligence and strengthen its analyses. Furthermore, as part of our counter-terrorism measures, we have decided and are taking steps to implement thorough border control measures and introduce rigorous security measures at important facilities and places where many people gather. Regarding the measure you just referred to, the responses may differ from country to country. In any case, Japan will take all possible measures to counter terrorism.