Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: Tension continues to rise on the Korean Peninsula between North Korea and the Republic of Korea (ROK). What does the Japanese Government think about this situation?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Japan absolutely cannot accept North Korea’s provocative language and behavior. Japan intends to strongly urge North Korea to forthrightly accept firm warnings and criticism repeatedly delivered by the international community, sincerely and fully implement Security Council resolutions, including the recently adopted resolution, and refrain from further provocative actions. Within this context, Japan is putting its utmost efforts toward firm cooperation with the United States and the ROK to be ready for all circumstances and is also adhering to an approach that applies the principles of dialogue and pressure and action-for-action. The Government remains vigilant in its actions to fully protect the lives, assets, and peaceful lifestyles of the Japanese people.

REPORTER: This is related. What is your view of the possibility of an unexpected military conflict? 

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Japan’s stance is that we absolutely cannot accept North Korea’s provocative language and actions, and I think the ROK Government is responding to the situation with the appropriate care.

REPORTER: Some media reports indicate that the Japanese man detained in Turkey might return to Japan as soon as tonight. Please explain the facts and the current state of coordination.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware of these media reports. The Embassy of Japan in Turkey contacted local authorities and confirmed that the local authorities investigated a Japanese man in his 20s. However, I would like to refrain from making comments as the Government regarding these media reports because it involves the privacy of an individual.

(Abridged)