Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: I have a question regarding Japan-China relations. Some media outlets are reporting that the Government of Japan proposed to State Councilor Yang Jiechi of China, when he visited Japan in late May, that the Japanese and Chinese leaders visit each other’s country in 2018. Is this true?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: During State Councilor Yang Jiechi’s recent visit to Japan, the State Councilor paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Abe and held talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs Kishida. I also exchanged views with the State Councilor. On these occasions, discussion took place on enhancing bilateral dialogue, including at the leader level, looking ahead to the diplomatic schedule for the near term. As these are diplomatic exchanges I would like to refrain from disclosing their details. On that basis I would like to state that, at this point in time, no detailed itinerary and other specifics have been discussed between Japan and China with regard to mutual visits by the leaders. In any case, since this year and next year are milestone years marking the 45th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and China and the 40th anniversary of the Treaty of Peace and Friendship between Japan and China, respectively, the Government will continue to seek to further improve the bilateral relationship from a broad perspective based on the concept of a “Mutually Beneficial Relationship Based on Common Strategic Interests.”

REPORTER: I have a related question. While you say no concrete schedule is being arranged with China, as it is the chair of the Japan-China-Republic of Korea (ROK) Trilateral Summit for 2018, I think there is a high possibility that Prime Minister Abe will visit China during that time. Apart from this, is the Government considering to invite President Xi Jinping of China to Japan in 2018?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I believe having a wide range of interaction between Japan and China is extremely important, including at the leadership level.

(Abridged)