Media FAQ

November 2, 2007

Anti-Terrorism Special Measures Law

Q: The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) ships engaging in refueling activities in the Indian Ocean have been ordered to return home. What is the Japanese Government's view on the political process of renewing the Anti-Terrorism Special Measures Law?

A: The Government of Japan will do its utmost, including enhancing its efforts to improve the transparency of refueling activities, to achieve the early enactment of the Replenishment Support Special Measures Law, so as to resume the refueling activities as soon as possible with the understanding and support of the Japanese people.

Related Information (Counter Terrorism)

Abductions of Japanese Nationals by North Korea

Q: Foreign Minister Koumura mentioned that in the event that North Korea returns a number of abducted Japanese nationals, it could be considered "progress." How exactly does the Government of Japan define "progress" on the abduction issue?

A: "Resolution" of the abduction issue involves the return of all abductees back to Japan, the provision of a full account of the issue and the handing over of the culprits. What constitutes "progress" on this issue cannot be predetermined and would have to be judged according to concrete actions taken by North Korea, but it must be a part of an effort towards reaching the aforementioned "resolution."

Myanmar Issues

Q: Regarding the death of a Japanese journalist, has the Government of Myanmar responded to the demands of the Government of Japan?

A: The Government of Myanmar has yet to respond. The Government of Japan has been demanding that Myanmar render a full account of the death and return all the belongings of the late Japanese journalist. The Government of Japan will continue to urge the Government of Myanmar to do so.

Q: What was discussed between Mr. Ibrahim Gambari, Special Advisor to the UN Secretary-General, and Japanese senior officials on 26 October?

A: Special Advisor Gambari met Prime Minister Fukuda, Foreign Minister Koumura, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Uno and Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Yabunaka. On each occasion, Special Advisor Gambari briefed the Japanese side on the result of his recent visit to other Asian nations and stressed the importance for the international community to call upon Myanmar with one voice to move toward a peaceful solution. He also expressed his will to advance cooperation with Japan.

The Japanese side extended its full support for the UN Secretary-General's good offices efforts including the mission of Special Advisor Gambari and mentioned that Japan is deeply concerned about the situation of democratization and human rights in Myanmar.

Back to Index