Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: There was a question on the same topic this morning too. Sharp, which is currently in the process of restructuring operations, officially announced its acceptance of the acquisition proposal from Taiwan-based Hon Hai. This is the first time for a major Japanese electronic equipment manufacturer to move under a foreign-capital firm. Please explain your view of the situation.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I received a report that Sharp approved a resolution at a board meeting held today to accept the proposed investment from Hon Hai. While the Innovation Network Corporation of Japan and Hon Hai both submitted assistance proposals in response to Sharp’s request, I believe Sharp reached a conclusion to accept the proposal from Hon Hai after conducting an extensive review from various perspectives. At any rate, the Government hopes that Sharp’s employment and presence in the local economy are preserved and that Sharp achieves growth.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to ask about the situation in the South China Sea. Admiral Harry Harris, who heads the U.S. Pacific Command, stated today that the United States intends to strength “freedom-of-navigation operations” by dispatching battleships to the area around artificial islands built by China in the South China Sea. Please share with us your thoughts on this stance.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Japan supports the “freedom-of-navigation operations” being conducted by the United States in the South China Sea, as I have explained on previous occasions. Japan also welcomes the latest comments by the U.S. side about strengthening the “freedom-of-navigation operations.” In any case, I think it is important for the international community to work together to protect open, free and peaceful seas.

REPORTER: Admiral Harris also explained that the United States intends to maintain a network with partners who share the same view in the region, and encourage action from them as well. He also indicated an interest in strengthening collaboration with Japan and Australia. Is Japan considering any type of specific assistance?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I believe it is extremely important for the international community to cooperate closely in order to defend freedom. Japan’s fundamental view is that it will respond while actively collaborating with others.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: The United States started exports of domestic shale gas to Brazil. An export project is currently underway in the United States that involves Mitsubishi Corporation, Tokyo Electric Power, and other Japanese companies. Do you expect exports to Japan in 2017?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I think exports to Japan will steadily begin from sometime this year through 2017.