Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As
 
REPORTER: President Trump has announced his intention to withdraw the United States from the Iran nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)) and impose economic sanctions against Iran. The situation could heighten military tensions in the Middle East. Could I ask for a comment from the Government?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, it would be extremely discouraging should the announcement have a major impact on the continuation of the nuclear deal. The Government continues to support the deal, which contributes to the strengthening of the international non-proliferation regime and stability in the Middle East. In order to maintain the deal, the Government will remain in close communication with relevant parties, expecting their constructive actions. The Government will also continue to pay close attention to the situation while carefully analyzing the possible impact of this announcement.
 
REPORTER: You have just stated that it would be discouraging if the announcement were to have an impact. Could we assume from your statement that the Government does not support the United States’ position?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: As I have just noted, the Government continues to support the deal, which contributes to the strengthening of the international non-proliferation regime and stability in the Middle East, and hopes for constructive actions by relevant parties to maintain the agreement.
 
(Abridged)
 
REPORTER: I have a question regarding the situation in North Korea. The media in  China and North Korea are both reporting that Chairman of the Workers’ Party of Korea Kim Jong-un of North Korea held talks with President Xi Jinping of China in Dalian, China. Could you tell us what facts the Government has regarding this meeting, and your analysis about the intention of the two countries in holding such talks at this timing?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Government is aware that Chairman Kim Jong-un of the State Affairs Commission visited Dalian, China from May 7 to 8, where he held talks with President Xi Jinping. The Government is gathering and analyzing information with great interest. With respect to the intention of China and North Korea, the Government would like to refrain from making comments. In any event, given the opportunity afforded by the Japan-China Summit Meeting and other events today, the Government hopes to receive a thorough explanation from China. On this basis, we will also continue to engage in close trilateral cooperation with the United States and the Republic of Korea (ROK) and work together with the international community, including China and Russia, and make maximum efforts towards the comprehensive resolution of outstanding issues of concern, including the abduction, nuclear and missile issues.