Press Conference by the Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: I have a question regarding North Korea. In Japan, the general election of the House of Representatives was officially announced today, October 10. This day also coincides with the anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) in North Korea. There are concerns that North Korea will engage in military provocations such as missile launches. Can you explain once again what kind of surveillance and monitoring structure the Government intends to have in place?

DEPUTY CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY NOGAMI: The Government constantly strives to collect and analyze information with great interest regarding the activities of North Korea, in close collaboration with relevant countries. I would like to refrain from commenting on the individual details due to the nature of the matter. However, generally speaking, I believe it cannot be denied that North Korea may conduct further provocative acts. Based on a robust Japan-U.S. relationship, the Government will make utmost efforts to protect the safety of the people while maintaining a robust monitoring and surveillance posture with a strong sense of urgency.

REPORTER: I have a related question. Today, Prime Minister Abe is visiting Fukushima Prefecture to deliver an address in the lead-up to the House of Representatives election. In terms of the response to North Korea, can you tell us which of the four ministers of the National Security Council has been asked to be on standby in Tokyo?

DEPUTY CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY NOGAMI: The Government has a grave mission to protect the lives and peaceful daily lives of the Japanese people by responding appropriately in emergency situations. Needless to say the Government will make every possible effort for crisis management at all times. While the House of Representatives has been dissolved, there will be no void in the Government’s response to crises. The Government is responding to North Korea’s provocations 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and will continue to make utmost efforts during the election campaign. Taking into account the current situation surrounding North Korea, in principle Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga and Minister of Defense Onodera will remain in central Tokyo, in order to maintain the Government’s response readiness. We will continue to take all possible measures for crisis management.