Media FQ
September 10, 2008
North Korea: The Health of Chairman Kim Jong Il
Q: There are media reports that Chairman Kim Jong Il of North Korea has suffered a stroke. Does the Government of Japan have any reason to believe that those reports are accurate?
A: We are aware of those press reports and are collecting and analyzing related information in earnest. However, due to the nature of this matter, we will refrain from making any specific comments. We will watch the situation carefully and continue to exchange views with countries concerned.
Q: Does this situation affect the Six-Party process or Japan-North Korea bilateral negotiations?
A: Concerning the Six-Party Talks, the members of the Talks continue to urge North Korea to agree on the concrete framework for verification.
As for Japan-North Korea bilateral relations, Japan will continue urging North Korea to begin the investigation anew as soon as possible, as agreed at the Japan-North Korea working level consultations held in August.
Japan's position towards North Korea remains unchanged, that in accordance with the Japan-DPRK Pyongyang Declaration, Japan seeks to normalize relations with North Korea through the settling of the unfortunate past and the resolution of the outstanding issues of concern with North Korea, including abduction, nuclear, and missile issues.
Related Information (Japan-North Korea Relations)
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