Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As
(Abbreviated)

REPORTER: Recent analysis by a research group in the United States confirmed smoke emissions from a North Korean nuclear facility, and some observers are suggesting that North Korea might be extracting plutonium. Please explain information that the Government is aware of at this point. 

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am naturally aware of the media report and have explained in past press conferences that the Government is collecting and analyzing intelligence on developments related to North Korea’s nuclear weapons and missiles with strong interest. However, I would like to refrain from commenting on specific information or content as well as results from our analysis because of the nature of the matter.

REPORTER: This is a related question. North Korea conducted a nuclear weapons test in January 2016. What is your view on the possibility of a nuclear test in the short term?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Japan intends to strongly urge North Korea to refrain from provocative actions and to comply with United Nations Security Council resolutions and the Joint Statement of the Six-Party Talks while collaborating at the Japan-United States-Republic of Korea level and with related countries. Japan is also putting its utmost efforts into surveillance and monitoring with a sense of urgency so that it is absolutely ready for any situation.