Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: I have a question related to the situation in the South China Sea. U.S. media and other sources are reporting that China has installed surface-to-air missiles on the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea that it effectively controls. Please explain the Government’s view of this development.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware of media reports containing this information. As explained in the past regarding this issue, actions that unilaterally change the current situation and raise tensions, such as large-scale and rapid land reclamations, site construction, and usage for military purposes, in the South China Sea constitute a common concern for the international community. Japan is also very concerned about these actions and will be emphasizing that it cannot accept the creation of existing facts. Japan believes it is important for the international community to cooperate in defending freedom of navigation and overflight rights and plans to continue to work closely with the international community.

REPORTER: This is related. Some observers are suggesting that deployment of the missiles comes as a countermeasure to the “Freedom of Navigation Program” being implemented by the United States Military. What is the Government’s analysis of China’s intentions?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Government gathers and analyzes information regarding China’s activities in the South China Sea with serious interest on a regular basis. However, I would like to refrain from commenting on specific information, including missile deployment, due to the nature of the matter.

REPORTER: Does the Japanese Government intend to directly urge the Chinese government to exercise restraint regarding the trend of promoting military use?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Government will not be commenting on information regarding the above-mentioned deployment of missiles due to the nature of the matter. However, as I have repeatedly explained in the past, large-scale and rapid land reclamations, site construction, and usage for military purposes in the South China Sea constitute a common concern for the international community. This is my view.

REPORTER: This is related. Is there any plan to request an explanation from China?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Japan’s fundamental approach is responding appropriately, while closely cooperating with related countries, in the context of gathering information. The Government has been communicating its view of the South China Sea issue to the Chinese side through various contacts. However, I would like to refrain from discussing detailed diplomatic interactions.

(Abridged)