Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As
 
(Abridged)
 
REPORTER: Akita Prefecture and others have expressed their intention to present an Akita Inu (Japanese Akita) as a gift to Russian figure skater Alina Zagitova, the gold medalist in ladies single figure skating at the PyeongChang Olympic Games. I understand the Akita Inu Hozonkai (Akita-Inu Preservation Society) requested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to confirm her interest in the dog. Could you please share your comments on this gift if you have any?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Since I am from Akita Prefecture myself, I would be delighted if Akita Inu gain popularity. In any event, it would be nice if specific arrangements could be made for an Akita Inu to be presented to Ms. Zagitova based on her wishes.
 
(Abridged)