Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Opening Statement by Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga

(Abridged)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: The Vietnamese Government has said that it confirmed China moved an oil rig to waters off the coast of northern Vietnam where the border is not demarcated, and strongly protested the move. China has continued these activities in disputed waters in the South China Sea. What does the Government think about the fact that these activities are taking place before the G7 Summit?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First, with regard to the issues over the South China Sea, we view that all relevant countries should refrain from unilateral actions that heighten tension. In addition, we regard that all countries should comply with the relevant international law, act with self-restraint, and resolve issues peacefully through dialogue. Japan will carefully and closely follow the situation.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: At one point, the yen traded on the upper bounds of the 107 yen range against the dollar on the foreign exchange market on the 7th. The yen reached the lower bounds of the 108 yen range also in this morning’s Tokyo foreign exchange market. There is no end to the yen’s appreciation. Can you once again share your views on this?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, we are seeing lopsided movements in the recent exchange market. As was confirmed at the G20, we regard that excess volatility and disorderly movements in exchange markets can have adverse implications. The Government will closely follow exchange market movements with a sense of urgency, and depending on the case, take necessary measures.

(Abridged)