Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As
(Abridged)

REPORTER: The Republic of Korea (ROK) military appears to have started regular exercises in the waters around Takeshima. Please explain the Japanese Government’s response, including a protest.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware of the media reports. If the media reports in this case are accurate, this is unacceptable and very disappointing in light of Japan’s position on the territorial rights of Takeshima. Japan is strongly protesting to the ROK side through diplomatic routes.

REPORTER: This is a related question. Has the Government already lodged a protest?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Yes, it has.

REPORTER: Through the Japanese Embassy in Seoul?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Yes, this appears to be the case.

REPORTER: This is a related question. What type of reaction did Japan receive from the ROK side to its protest through this diplomatic channel?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The answer reflected the ROK’s existing stance.

REPORTER: I have a question about the situation in the East China Sea. The US military lodged a protest with the Chinese side in response to a sudden intercept of a US surveillance plane by Chinese fighter planes. Please explain the Government’s view of this incident, particularly in light of ongoing dialogue aimed at avoiding unexpected collisions.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I would like to refrain from commenting on this incident because we are still confirming the facts. Nevertheless, if the media reports are true, this is a dangerous action that could result in an unforeseen situation, including an unexpected accident, and is a source of concern.

(Abridged)