Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: I have a question regarding the situation in South Sudan. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) personnel and other Japanese nationals recently withdrew from the country. Can you tell us whether the situation there has subsequently improved or not?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: On the July 11 local time, the Government of South Sudan issued a presidential decree that orders the cessation of hostilities. Accordingly, First Vice President Riek Machar ordered troops of the former anti-government forces to cease hostilities. We have been briefed that the local situation has been relatively calm since then. Meanwhile, the situation in South Sudan remains uncertain, and the Government is continuing to deal with the situation cautiously.

REPORTER: I have a related question. I understand that the Japanese Ambassador and others still remain there. At this point in time, you do not have any intention of withdrawing the remaining Japanese nationals including the Ambassador?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, based on the security situation in Juba, some members of the Japanese Embassy in South Sudan left Juba on the July 13 and 14. Later, the remaining Embassy personnel in Juba evacuated to the cantonment of the Self-Defense Forces currently deployed for the United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan (UNMISS). For security reasons, I would like to refrain from disclosing how many people. There were several people.

REPORTER: A related question. The Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) is deployed there. I believe the United Nations is discussing what to do with the deadline of the activities of UNMISS that is set for the end of July. Does it remain unchanged that the Japanese Government will continue to deploy the GSDF if the deadline is extended? Can you please tell us once again?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, I would like to refrain from speculating about the outcome at this point in time. As a matter of course, the Security Council is expected to discuss this in light of factors such as the local situation and the role played by UNMISS in protecting civilians. In arriving at the conclusion, Japan will engage in the discussions consistently sharing deep concern over this matter. With regard to whether or not there will be the outcome you referred to, we will take appropriate measures in view of the discussions and the decision of the Security Council. 

(Abridged)