Press Conference by the Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: In preparation for maritime provocations by North Korea, the military forces of the United States and the Republic of Korea (ROK) have today started joint maritime exercises in the vicinity of the Korean Peninsula, which includes the participation of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. There is a possibility that North Korea will react to these exercises, so could you tell us about Government readiness and response measures?

DEPUTY CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY NOGAMI: Strong deterrence provided by the Japan-U.S. Alliance and the U.S.-ROK alliance is necessary to ensure the defense of Japan and the peace and security of the region. From that perspective, U.S.-ROK cooperation contributes to regional peace and stability and Japan supports such cooperation. In the Japan-U.S.-ROK trilateral summit meeting held on September 21, the leaders confirmed that the three countries will work together even more closely on matters such as security and defense cooperation. Japan will continue to advance Japan-U.S. and Japan-U.S.-ROK cooperation, including in security-related aspects, so that we are ready and able to respond to any situation. With regard to developments in North Korea, we are constantly working closely with other countries concerned to collect and analyze information with the greatest concern. Speaking in general terms, the possibility of further provocative actions by North Korea cannot be discounted. The Government will continue to maintain an elevated surveillance and monitoring structure and take all possible measures to protect the safety and security of the people of Japan with a high sense of urgency.

REPORTER: The campaign for the House of Representatives election is currently underway, so could you tell us whether the Government has any concerns about its response capabilities during this period?

DEPUTY CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY NOGAMI: As has often been stated in these press conferences, we have a comprehensive response posture in place.

REPORTER: In the early hours of tomorrow, Japan time, the second round of the Japan-U.S. Economic Dialogue is scheduled to be held. I believe that one particular issue relates to the Government’s imposition of safeguard tariffs on American-produced frozen beef. Could you share with us the Government’s policy on this issue?

DEPUTY CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY NOGAMI: On October 16, Deputy Prime Minister Aso and Vice President Pence are scheduled to hold the second round of the Japan-U.S. Economic Dialogue in Washington D.C. The Government hopes that constructive discussions will take place that will further deepen Japan and the United States’ win-win economic relations, while firmly protecting Japan’s national interests. With regard to individual trade matters, various points will be discussed within the framework of the Common Strategy on Trade and Investment Rules/Issues, but at this point I would like to refrain from speculating about what might be discussed.