Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As
 
REPORTER: I have a question regarding the recent moves of North Korea and China. It appears that a dignitary of North Korea is currently visiting Beijing. Could you please tell us what information the Government is aware of on this matter?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Government constantly gathers and analyzes information on the moves of North Korea with grave interest. I would like to refrain from responding to your question on the current developments.
 
REPORTER: I have a related question. North Korea and China have been interacting with each other more actively in the lead-up to the U.S.-North Korea Summit Meeting. What is the Government’s analysis regarding the motives of North Korea and China behind these moves?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: As I just stated, the Government gathers and analyzes information with grave interest. Due to the nature of the matter, I would like to refrain from making comments.
 
REPORTER: I would like to ask a question on the Middle East Peace Process. During this morning’s press conference, you stated that, with regard to the Middle East Peace Process, the Government seeks to make a contribution by providing opportunities to build trust and promote dialogue between the parties. What kind of initiatives do you have in mind when you say efforts unique to Japan?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, the Government has been working on the “Corridor for Peace and Prosperity” initiative for over ten years. This is a mid- to long-term effort that promotes the economic self-reliance of Palestine through collaboration among Japan, Palestine, Israel, and Jordan. In the Jericho Agro-Industrial Park (JAIP), a core project of the initiative, 12 companies are currently in operation, generating employment for approximately 200 people. On April 29, a ministerial-level meeting for the “Corridor for Peace and Prosperity” initiative was held in Palestine. In the face of a severe situation, the Government has continued to provide such opportunities for dialogue among the parties. By carrying out these efforts, the Government will contribute actively to the achievement of peace in the Middle East through its continued contribution to trust building between the parties.
 
(Abridged)