Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As
 
(Abridged)
 
REPORTER: I have a question on a different topic. What is the current status of arrangements for the visit to Japan by the Director of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) of the Republic of Korea (ROK)?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: We are currently coordinating with the ROK, with a view to realizing a visit to Japan by NIS Director Suh Hoon within next week.
 
REPORTER: According to some press reports, former President Obama is expected to visit Japan at the end of this month and arrangements are currently being made for a meeting with Prime Minister Abe. Could you tell us what information the Government has about this visit at this stage?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: We are aware that former President Obama is scheduled to visit Japan at the end of March. Nothing has been decided at the current point about whether he will meet with representatives of the Government during the visit.
 
REPORTER: If former President Obama does meet with the Prime Minister, what does the Government consider the purpose and significance of such a meeting would be?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Nothing has been decided at the current point in time
 
REPORTER: You have just stated that arrangements are being made for the Director of the NIS of the ROK to visit Japan next week. Who is expected to meet with him in the Government?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Government is currently arranging who to meet with him. In any event, the Government will engage in a candid exchange of views with Director Suh Hoon and receive a detailed briefing including points that require further clarification in addition to the announcement by the ROK itself.