Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As
 
(Abridged)
 
REPORTER: I have a question regarding Prime Minister Abe’s visit to the United States. Some media reported that the Government would propose a new framework of dialogue on trade issues. Could you tell us the actual intention of the Government to propose such a framework and what kinds of discussions are to take place regarding the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: At the forthcoming Japan-U.S. summit meetings, I expect discussions to take place on issues of mutual concern between Japan and the United States, such as cooperation on North Korean issues including the abduction issue, as well as the importance of free trade.
 
(Abridged)
 
REPORTER: I would like to ask a follow-up question regarding the Prime Minister’s visit to the United States that you have mentioned earlier. At today’s meeting of the Liaison Committee of the Government and Ruling Parties, you reported on the Prime Minister’s visit to the United States. Could you share with us what was reported exactly?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: What I have just mentioned. I explained that Prime Minister Abe would be visiting the United States from tomorrow to April 20 and hold talks with President Trump, and that during their talks, I expect discussions to take place on issues of mutual concern between Japan and the United States, such as cooperation on North Korean issues including the abduction issue and the importance of free trade.