(* This is a provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only. The original text is in Japanese.)

Press Conference by Minister for Foreign Affairs Masahiko Koumura

Date: Sunday, February 10, 2008, around 2:00 p.m. (roughly 10:00 p.m. Japan time)
Place: Munich, Germany

Main topics:

Speech by Masahiko Koumura at the 44th Munich Conference on Security Policy
Kosovo Issue
Mayoral Election in Iwakuni

1. Speech by Masahiko Koumura at the 44th Munich Conference on Security Policy

Question:
This was the first time the foreign minister of Japan has attended this conference. As you have also made a speech, please share your impression of the experience.

Minister:
As you say, this was the first time the foreign minister of Japan attended this conference. At the conference there were numerous related persons from the United States and Europe, and while there was much discussion held from their perspective, National Security Adviser M.K. Narayanan from India, Singaporean Minister of Defense Teo Chee Hean, and I spoke from the viewpoint of Asia. The conference chairman noted that participants were especially uninformed regarding the Asian perspective and that there was much to learn. I believe that it was meaningful to be able to convey the message on the issues of Asia as seen from a Japanese standpoint to security experts from the United States and Europe.

Question:
Your speech seemed to particularly focus on China. What was your aim in doing so?

Minister:
Indian National Security Adviser M.K. Narayanan also said that while the relationship between India and China may seem unfavorable from the viewpoint of those in Europe, the relationship between the two countries is actually good. I believe that it is also necessary for Japan to have the people of the United States and Europe gain a strong understanding on the recent progress of Japan-China relations.

2. Kosovo Issue

Question:
Was there discussion on the Kosovo issue in your dialogue with Dr. Javier Solana Madariaga, High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy? What stance do you plan to take in the event that the Kosovo province makes a declaration of independence?

Minister:
The Kosovo issues naturally became a topic of discussion. When asked what they will do, the EU stated that it will formulate its own stance after a declaration of independence has been made. The EU also noted that each country will decide on the national recognition issue, and there will likely be nations that make an extremely quick decision along with nations that may take time in making their decision. Japan will consider the requirements for national recognition from a legal perspective in order to recognize Kosovo's independence, and make a judgment after observing how international society receives the issue.

Question:
Was there any explanation from Dr. Solana regarding a timeframe for Kosovo's independence?

Minister:
I received the impression that independence is planned for a relatively early time. The EU stated that in response to the fact that independence will likely be achieved in a surprisingly early timeframe, the EU will do what is necessary and swiftly deliver a unified opinion based on the Ahtisaari's Comprehensive Proposal for the Kosovo Status Settlement in order that disputes between ethnic groups would not break out. Additionally, the EU noted that each country would handle the national approval in accordance with their nation's respective procedures.

3. Mayoral Election in Iwakuni

Question:
One main issue for debate in the Iwakuni mayoral election was the realignment of US Forces in Japan. How do you feel about the results of the election?

Minister:
The results have not been released as of yet. However, whichever candidate wins, it shall be the result of the city residents' judgment. The realignment of US Forces is important for Japan in order to reduce the overall national military burden in maintaining deterrence. Therefore, we still intend to wholeheartedly explain the government's contentions to the new mayor and attain their understanding.

Question:
In addition, regarding the election, would the reelection of Mayor Ihara indicate that public opinion opposes the relocation of US Forces?

Minister:
This is an issue of security and thus will not be determined by the public opinion of a single city. Nevertheless, the mayor would represent said public opinion and that would thus make persuading them more difficult, as you say.

Back to Index