Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Opening Statement by Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga
(There was a statement on the overview of the Cabinet meeting.)

Q&As 

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question regarding the Trump administration’s recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. A resolution that calls on the United States to withdraw its recognition was adopted by a majority at an emergency special session   of the United Nations General Assembly. Japan voted in favor of the resolution. Can you please comment on why the Government decided to vote in favor of the resolution? Can you also once again explain the Government’s position regarding this issue?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: As I have stated repeatedly, the Government supports a two-state solution with regard to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Our position is that the final status of Jerusalem is part of a range of issues that should be resolved through negotiations between the parties, based on the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions that have been adopted and agreements previously reached by the parties concerned. The Government voted in favor of the draft resolution in view of this position.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to return to the issue of Jerusalem. I believe the United States intends to oppose the latest decision. What kind of discussions has the Government conducted with the United States over this matter?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Ever since this issue arose, the Government has consistently stated that the matter should be dealt with by placing a focus on a two-state solution. Various resolutions have been adopted to date, such as Jerusalem’s final status, including the latest adoption of the resolution . In this process, the Government has taken the position which I noted earlier. I would like to just mention that we are always working closely with the United States in the face of a variety of issues, including peace in the Middle East.

(Abridged)