(* 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 Hirofumi Nakasone

Date: Monday, July 6, 2009, 10:02 a.m.
Place: Entrance hall, Third Floor of the Prime Minister's Office

Main topic:

Opening Statement
- North Korean Issues

1. Opening Statement

North Korean Issues

Minister:
Regarding North Korea, at the Cabinet Meeting today approval was given for Japan's own measures following the passage of UN Security Council Resolution 1874 on nuclear weapons, missiles, weapons of mass destruction and so forth. Monetary measures will be taken, such as those against the transfer of assets.

Question:
Did the Prime Minister say anything to you regarding North Korea?

Minister:
Nothing regarding this matter.

Question:
There have been some media reports saying that the accuracy of North Korean missiles has improved. What is your opinion on this?

Minister:
I believe that it is a matter to be examined carefully, especially by the Ministry of Defense. Since we are talking about something that happened only the day before yesterday, I would like to refrain from discussing details.

Question:
It was reported that North Korea launched seven ballistic missiles this time. Will the Government take steps such as raising this issue with the Security Council or considering new sanctions?

Minister:
The launch of missiles by North Korea is yet another violation of UN Security Council resolutions and it cannot be tolerated. We will conduct close communication at the UN to consider future actions. From now on, We will hold close discussions with other related countries in this way.

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