Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: The United States and Russia have agreed to a temporary cessation of the civil war in Syria, and it is hoped that this will bring about the termination of the civil war. In response to this situation, what are the Japanese Government’s plans for further assistance for Syrian refugees for improving their livelihoods?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, Japan welcomes the agreement between the United States and Russia on a cession of hostilities. We strongly expect that all parties will comply with the United Nations Security Council resolution based on this agreement. Japan will continue to make efforts to improve and stabilize Syria’s situation through Japan’s strengths such as humanitarian assistance, in close cooperation with the international community at fora including the Security Council. Japan has already implemented assistance to Syria, Iraq, and neighboring countries worth more than US$1.2 billion. In addition, Japan announced additional assistance of approximately US$350 million at the Supporting Syria and the Region conference held in London on February 4. I have been informed that Japan’s balanced assistance to both the Syrian refugees and the host communities and countries is gratefully received. Japan will continue to implement this kind of assistance.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: In relation to the relocation of ministries and agencies to areas outside of Tokyo, Minister Taro Kono has requested that the Secretary General of the Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) be able to take part in vice ministerial meetings using the video teleconference system. What is your view regarding this?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: With regard to this matter, I have been briefed that CAA personnel, including the CAA Secretary General, will be carrying out their work in Tokushima Prefecture for around one week during the week of March 13. Whether or not routine work can be conducted there will be studied, including the use of telework systems that utilize video teleconference and other technologies. In any case, I expect that through these trials, whether or not the CAA’s functions can be secured and improved will be studied, including what challenges exist.

REPORTER: It seems there is a bit of concern as to whether adequate exchanges of views can be conducted. Do you have any comments in this regard?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: That is why I think they are giving it a try.