Press Conference 14 June 2002

1. Election of Mr. Hamid Karzai as head of the Transitional Authority of Afghanistan
2. Proposal for English-language travel advisories

1. Election of Mr. Hamid Karzai as head of the Transitional Authority of Afghanistan

   Deputy Press Secretary Joji Hisaeda: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I have an announcement to make today on the election in Afghanistan.

   On 13 June, Mr. Hamid Karzai, candidate in Afghanistan's presidential election, was elected as head of the Transitional Authority in an Emergency Loya Jirga, which is being held in Kabul.

   The Government of Japan welcomes the election of Mr. Karzai as the head of the Transitional Authority through a democratic procedure. It is absolutely essential for the acceleration of the peace process that the Emergency Loya Jirga is concluded successfully and that the Transitional Authority is established.

   The Government of Japan will continue to support Afghanistan in the establishment of peace by extending cooperation in the political process, as well as in security, humanitarian and reconstruction areas.

   Related Information (Japan-Afghanistan Relations)
   
2. Proposal for English-language travel advisories

   Q: I also have a request to make on behalf of foreign correspondents: If they could have a travel advisory in English, it would be quite helpful for them when they are reporting. Do you have any plans to create an English-language travel advisory?

   Mr. Hisaeda: The main purpose of a travel advisory is to provide information to Japanese nationals who wish to travel or live in foreign countries but, certainly, we will talk to the section that is in charge of travel advisories and I will get back to you.