Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: Since this year is Japan-Russia cross exchange years, it is hoped that progress will be made on the Northern Territories issue. Yesterday, Mr. Alexander Panov, former Russian Ambassador to Japan, stated in Tokyo that as a basis for the conclusion of the Japan-Russia peace treaty, Russia could approve the return of the islands if the U.S. Forces will not be stationed on the Northern Territories. What is the Government’s view regarding this comment? With regard to Takeshima over which Japan claims sovereignty, the Government expresses the view that the U.S. Forces does not cover Takeshima under the Japan-U.S. Security Treaty. Can you also comment from the aspect of consistency between Northern Territories and Takeshima?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, Mr. Panov has resigned as ambassador of Russia. The Government would like to refrain from commenting on individual remarks made by a civilian. Having said that, based on our basic policy of resolving the issue of the attribution of the Northern Territories and concluding a peace treaty, the Government will continue to negotiate persistently with Russia to see to it that this is achieved.

REPORTER: Does that mean the Government will make forward-looking considerations if, for example, the Government of Russia states that it would not permit the stationing of the U.S. Forces, or rather, that it would agree to return the islands if the U.S. Forces will not be stationed?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I would like to refrain from responding to hypothetical questions.

(Abridged)