Press Conference by the Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As
(Abridged)

REPORTER: Concerning North Korea’s continued nuclear and missile development, Director Pompeo of the US Central Intelligence Agency stated on 23 January that North Korea’s ultimate goal is the reunification of the Korean Peninsula under the control of Chairman Kim Jong-un. Can you confirm whether or not the Japanese Government shares the same recognition as Director Pompeo regarding North Korea’s ultimate goal. If the Government does not share that recognition, could you please explain what Japan’s view is?

DEPUTY CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY NOGAMI: Japan is constantly collecting and analyzing information related to developments in North Korea with the utmost interest, while working together with the relevant countries. I would like to refrain from commenting on each and every statement made by senior foreign officials. In any case, we will continue to maintain Japan-US and Japan-US-Republic of Korea cooperation, while also working closely with other relevant countries, including China and Russia, to maximize pressure on North Korea and make it change its policies.

(Abridged)