Press Conferences

Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs: Happy new year to you all.

I have an announcement regarding the Japan-U.S. “2+2,” which was held this morning via video conference. The meeting was attended by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin from the U.S. side, Minister of Defense KISHI Nobuo and myself from the Japanese side. We were able to have very fruitful exchanges of views.

Amidst the increasingly severe strategic environment surrounding Japan, the importance of the Japan-U.S. Alliance has been growing even more. The Governments of Japan and the United States are reviewing various strategy documents, including the National Security Strategy. I believe that we were able to have important discussions on how we could develop the Japan-U.S. Alliance and continue to effectively deal with current and future challenges.

In the Japan-U.S. “2+2” today, we achieved the following three major points.

Firstly, I believe that we were able to have in-depth discussions to carefully share our understanding of the changing regional strategic environment. In particular, the Japanese and the U.S. sides shared concern over China’s actions, which undermine the rule-based order and raise various issues, and decided to work together to deter, and when necessary respond to, destabilizing actions in the region.

We confirmed that Japan and the United States will remain united and oppose China’s activities in the East China Sea, which further undermine the peace and stability in the region, any actions that seek to change the status quo in the Senkaku Islands, and any unilateral actions that seek to undermine Japan’s administration of these islands. The two sides also affirmed our strong objections to China’s claims and activities in the South China Sea, as well as our serious and continuing concerns regarding the human rights issues in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region and Hong Kong. Additionally, we confirmed the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

Furthermore, Japan and the United States shared strong concerns over North Korea, including its nuclear and missile-related activities, such as the ballistic missile launch on January 5, while Japan also fully shared the view with the U.S. on realizing the complete denuclearization of North Korea in accordance with the United Nations Security Council Resolutions and the immediate resolution of the abductions issue.

Secondly, we agreed to advance specific discussions to drastically strengthen the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. Alliance. The U.S. side expressed its unwavering commitment to robust, extended deterrence and determination to strengthen its capabilities and capacities in the region. The Japanese side explained that it would fundamentally strengthen the country’s defense capabilities through the revision of the National Security Strategy and other methods, for which the United States expressed its strong support.

In addition, both sides agreed to develop the foundation for maintaining the advantage of the Japan-U.S. Alliance into the future, such as deepening bilateral cooperation in the space and cyber domains, promoting technological cooperation to incorporate emerging technologies, and further strengthening information security, and shared the view on the importance of implementing further investments.

Thirdly, we agreed on the importance of maintaining the deterrence of the Japan-U.S. Alliance while mitigating the impact on local communities including Okinawa. We reconfirmed that the relocation to Henoko is the only solution to avoid the indefinite use of Futenma Air Station. In addition, since this year marks the 50th anniversary of the return of Okinawa, we also confirmed our cooperation on accelerating the process of returning the land south of Kadena Air Base in accordance with the Consolidation Plan for Facilities and Areas in Okinawa.

Minister of Defense Kishi and I also requested the U.S. side once again for safe operations of the U.S. Forces in Japan (USFJ), as well as appropriate responses to incidents and accidents, and confirmed close Japan-U.S. cooperation.

Based on the recent situation in which novel coronavirus has been spreading among the personnel of USFJ, the Japanese side strongly urged the U.S. side to strengthen and enforce measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including putting in place restrictions on off-base activities to alleviate local anxieties including the anxieties of personnel of USFJ, following Prime minister Kishida’s instruction.

In response, Secretary of State Blinken responded that he clearly understood the request from the Japanese side and would make efforts along with the U.S. Department of Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff to remove the concerns in Japan. Secretary of Defense Austin responded that he had already been briefed by Secretary of State Blinken on yesterday’s communication with me, and that the U.S. side would continue to emphasize the safety of the local residents and the U.S. military personnel, and that they are holding discussions with the military leadership. Secretary of Defense Austin reiterated that the safety of the local residents and the U.S. military personnel is the top priority and that the U.S. side would do everything possible to ensure that.

Based on the outcome of today’s Japan-U.S. “2+2,” we have issued an ambitious Joint Statement, which gives further direction to the future initiatives of the Japan-U.S. Alliance. In addition, taking advantage of this “2+2” meeting, earlier today I signed the “Special Measures Agreement (SMA) (Agreement between Japan and the United States of America concerning Special Measures relating to Article XXIV of the Agreement under Article VI of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between Japan and the United States of America, Regarding Facilities and Areas and the Status of United States Armed Forces in Japan)” and the “Exchange of Notes on the Framework of Joint Research and Development.” Both provide important foundations for further strengthening the Japan-U.S. Alliance.

Based on the discussions at today’s Japan-U.S. “2+2,” I will commit to the further development of the Japan-U.S. Alliance in cooperation with Minister of Defense Kishi, Secretary of State Blinken, and Secretary of Defense Austin. That is all from me.

Yomiuri Shimbun, Abe: The Joint Statement of the Japan-U.S. “2+2,” announced earlier, states that the Japanese side has expressed its determination to consider every option required for national defense. While Prime Minister Kishida has mentioned the view that possessing so-called strike capabilities against enemy bases would be an effective option, please tell us your thoughts on how you will be considering the options for national defense, in preparation for the revision of the National Security Strategy and two other strategic documents.

Minister Hayashi: In recent years, missile technology has been changing and evolving at a rapid pace, such as hypersonic gliding weapons and missiles that fly in an irregular orbit. The Japanese side explained to the U.S. side our intention to realistically consider what is required of Japan to protect the lives and livelihoods of its nationals without eliminating any options including the capabilities to counter the threat of missiles, and both sides agreed to closely cooperate through this process.

About the National Security Strategy and two other strategic documents, there were discussions on strategy documents regarding the national security of both Japan and the United States, in the context of discussing the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. Alliance. The two sides agreed to ensure consistency in the visions and prioritized matters of the Japan-U.S. Alliance through key documents regarding the security strategy for Japan and the United States, which will be prepared respectively.

Yomiuri Shimbun, Abe: About the previous question, possession of so-called strike capabilities against enemy bases will lead to reviewing the conventional division of roles as “shield” and “spear” between Japan and the United States. Could you please tell us your thoughts on this point?

Minister Hayashi: The Joint Statement refers to the capability to confront missile threats as a comprehensive expression referring to all capabilities to counter missile threats, and includes not only the so-called strike capabilities against enemy bases but also missile defense-related and other relevant capabilities. The Joint Statement does not contain the description of strike capabilities against enemy bases, and I would like to refrain from answering about any detailed arrangement partly because they involve relations with the United States.

Nikkei Shimbun, Miki: I would like to ask about the Joint Statement of the Japan-U.S. “2+2.” The Joint Statement states that Japan expressed the determination to drastically enhance its future defense capabilities. During today’s “2+2,” did the Japanese side tell the U.S. side about the revision of existing policies and the intention of increasing defense spending? I would also like to ask about the content regarding the Taiwan Strait. In the “2+2” held in March last year, the participating ministers made an exact remark on the Taiwan Strait, which then spread afterward as international recognition. Could you please tell us whether, in the meeting today, there were any specific remarks from the two sides regarding the issue of the Taiwan Strait, such as the threat posed by China and the current situation?

Minister Hayashi: On the issue involving China and the Taiwan Strait, during the discussion on the strategic environment of this region, we also held an in-depth discussion over China. In particular, we shared concern over China’s actions, which undermine the rule-based order and raise political, economic, military and technological issues both at the regional and global levels. We also shared concerns regarding China’s activities in the East China Sea, which further undermine the peace and stability of the region.

We also affirmed that Article V of the Japan-U.S. Security Treaty applies to the Senkaku Islands and that Japan and the U.S. would continue to oppose any unilateral actions that seek to undermine Japan’s administration of these islands.

The discussion on the regional strategic environment also required a discussion on the situation regarding Taiwan. Japan and the United States underscored the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and encouraged the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.

Answering your first question, I mentioned that the four ministers confirmed that we would advance specific discussions to realize the enhancement of the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. Alliance. What I meant was that amid those discussions, the Japanese side explained that it would fundamentally strengthen the country’s defense capabilities through the revision of the National Security Strategy and other methods.

Mainichi Shimbun, Kaite: I would like to ask about the agreement concerning defense-related joint research and development. The “2+2” Joint Statement contains the wording of future cooperation to counter hypersonic technology. Does this include the goal of intercepting hypersonic missiles in mind, or for owning such missiles? As you used the word “comprehensively” earlier, I would like to ask once again about the purpose of the research.

Please also explain in which domains, such as space, Japan and the U.S. will engage in research and development.

Minister Hayashi: Up until now, the Government of Japan under the “Mutual Defense Assistance Agreement Between Japan and the United States of America,” or so-called the MDA Agreement, has been implementing joint research, development and production with the United States to strengthen Japan’s defense capabilities.

The new Exchange of Notes was signed to further streamline the process related to joint research, development and production between Japan and the United States by establishing a framework that defines terms and conditions common to all joint research and development projects, as well as production projects between the two countries based on the MDA Agreement. Following the discussions between Japan and the U.S., Mr. Greene, Chargé d'Affaires ad interim, Embassy of the United States of America in Japan, and I signed the Exchange of Notes today.

Japan and the United States hold close exchanges of views regularly on various issues concerning security and defense cooperation, and also communicate with each other in the exchange of views to ensure mutual understanding regarding the future implementation of joint research and other projects. However, I would like to refrain from answering about any specific contents, as it relates to exchanges on diplomatic and defense cooperation between Japan and the United States.

Hokkaido Shimbun, Bun: The situation in Ukraine is not mentioned in the Joint Statement. Could you please tell us if either Japan or the United States made reference to the issue today and what remarks you made?

Minister Hayashi: Russia and Ukraine were discussed in the context of regional situations. The U.S. side explained the recent development, and Japan and the United States reaffirmed their consistent support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and agreed to continue to coordinate with each other.

Japan is concernedly and closely following the Russian military buildup in the areas surrounding the Ukrainian border. Japan will respond appropriately while giving importance to cooperating with the G7.

Sankei Shimbun, Sugimoto: I have a question regarding the Special Measures Agreement (SMA) on HNS that was signed today. The average annual amount for the five-year period is higher than this fiscal year’s amount. The Government of Japan has strengthened its role and capabilities over the years, including implementing the Legislation for Peace and Security. Nonetheless, the burden of the HNS has increased. Could you explain the reason for this?

Minister Hayashi: As the security environment surrounding Japan becomes increasingly severe, our negotiations on this agreement placed focus on strengthening the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. Alliance, while making the most effective use of Japan’s limited budget, it is difficult to see how the utilities cost borne by Japan are directly contributing to strengthening the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. Alliance, and so such costs will be cut significantly. On the other hand, in view of contributing to strengthening the readiness and interoperability of not only the USFJ but also the Self-Defense Forces, Japan and the United States agreed to establish “expenditures for procurement of equipment, materials, and related services” and to focus on maintaining facilities that contribute to strengthening the readiness of the USFJ and the resiliency of its facilities and areas.

In any event, in order to gain the understanding of the people, we will continue to engage in serious discussions with the United States, taking into account various factors such as Japan’s severe financial situation and the security environment surrounding Japan, and continuously examine the appropriate way for Japan to bear the burden.

Hokkaido Shimbun, Bun: I have a question related to the “2+2.” At the outset, I believe Secretary of State Blinken stated that the Japan-U.S. Alliance “must not only strengthen the tools we have but also develop new ones. And I think that’s really the focus of the discussions that we’re about to have.” Could you please tell us if any of these new tools are contained in the “2+2” Joint Statement, and if so, where it is stated?

Minister Hayashi: As I said earlier, there were three outcomes. Based on what was agreed upon at last year’s “2+2,” matters which have been discussed mainly at the working level were confirmed at the ministerial level “2+2.” My understanding is that Secretary Blinken made a remark to that effect based on this overall process.

Asahi Shimbun, Nohira: The Joint Statement contains the statement that Japan and the United States “welcomed our robust progress on…bilateral planning for contingencies.” What sort of situations do you specifically have in mind? Were situations such as a Taiwan contingency taken into account?

Minister Hayashi: As I stated earlier, there were three outcomes. I would like to refrain from responding to the matter you just asked about as it is a specific matter and involves our counterpart as well.

Jiji Press, Tanaka: My question concerns novel coronavirus infections among the USFJ. Today, following on from yesterday, you requested the enforcement of measures including restrictions on off-base activities. During today’s meeting, did the United States mention any concrete measures they intend to take? Please also tell us the current status of infection among the USFJ if you have this information.

Minister Hayashi: Regarding the latest infection status, according to the announcement by the USFJ Command, the number of infected people in USFJ facilities and areas across Japan was 1,784 as of yesterday morning.

In light of the situation, Japan has been calling for measures since last month at various levels, including from me. In addition to yesterday’s Japan-U.S. foreign ministers’ telephone talk, Minister of Defense Kishi and I, based on the Prime Minister’s instructions, strongly urged the U.S. side at today’s Japan-U.S. “2+2” to strengthen and enforce measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including putting in place restrictions on off-base activities to alleviate local anxieties. The United States’ remarks are as I stated in my opening statement. We will continue to make utmost efforts to alleviate local anxieties and will appropriately share new information with relevant parties as soon as it becomes available.

NHK, Aoki: I have a related question. At this point, what do you think was the fundamental cause of the spread of the virus among the U.S. Forces? Please also explain the improvements that will be made. In addition, please share with us your current views on the operational challenges of the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA).

Minister Hayashi: Regarding the recent novel coronavirus infections among the USFJ, as I stated earlier, the Japanese side at various levels, including myself, has been calling on the U.S. side to take measures since last month. I am aware that the United States is sequentially taking measures, such as strengthening border restrictions including pre-departure and post-arrival testing, and restrictions on conduct such as wearing masks.

Meanwhile, Japan has serious concerns over the spread of the virus in USFJ facilities and areas and the surrounding municipalities. Therefore, in addition to yesterday’s Japan-U.S. Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Talk, Minister of Defense Kishi and I, at the “2+2,” have urged the Secretaries of State and Defense to further enforce measures.

We will continue to make utmost efforts to alleviate local anxieties.

Under SOFA, based on the agreement of the Japan-U.S. Joint Committee, Japan and the United States have decided that the Government of Japan would conduct quarantine if U.S. citizens and others arrive in Japan via private airports and that the U.S. side would conduct quarantine procedures if personnel of the U.S. Forces directly arrive inside U.S. Forces facilities and areas in Japan.

Regarding the recent infections, Japan has been discussing with the United States and responding in cooperation with the U.S. side, including among local health authorities, based on SOFA and associated agreements.

Indonesia JIEF, Susilo: Happy New Year. I look forward to continuing to attend your press conferences this year. Coal exports from Indonesia were banned on the 1st of this month, and Mr. Kanasugi, Japanese Ambassador to Indonesia, wrote a letter to the Indonesian Minister of Energy on the 4th asking for the lifting of the coal export ban. Was this letter a request from the central government or was it sent at the initiative of the ambassador?

Minister Hayashi: I am not aware of the details of the matter you have just asked about. Our staff will give you an explanation later.

Niigata Nippo, Yokoyama: I have a question regarding the Council for Cultural Affairs’ recent selection of the Sado Kinzan gold mine as a candidate for domestic nomination as a World Heritage site. The Government of the Republic of Korea has voiced opposition to this nomination, claiming that Korean laborers were forced to work at the Sado gold mine during the war. How will the Government of Japan address this? What is the Government of Japan’s understanding of the actual situation of the Korean laborers at the Sado gold mine during the war?

Minister Hayashi: I have heard that the Council for Cultural Affairs is making various considerations regarding the issue you have just asked about. As to how the Government as a whole will respond to this, this is currently under consideration.

Independent Web Journal, Hamamoto: Currently, community-acquired infections of Omicron are rapidly spreading in areas around the U.S. Forces bases in Okinawa Prefecture and other parts of Japan, threatening the lives and livelihoods of the people. As you stated in your report earlier, on January 6, you urged Secretary of State Blinken to strengthen and enforce measures, including restrictions on off-base activities by the USFJ. Secretary Blinken responded that the health and safety of the local residents are important and that the United States would work with Japan and do everything possible. However, this alone does not mean that the U.S. side assured it would implement concrete measures, such as restricting off-base activities and enforcing quarantine and testing. Furthermore, while restrictions on the USFJ’s off-base activities are of course important, this is not the fundamental issue. The fundamental issue is quarantine. Should we not be questioning the fact that a part of the immune system (transcribed as delivered) of a sovereign nation is left to the discretion of another country? In other words, that the sovereignty of an independent nation, i.e., Japan, is being restricted by the United States? At the telephone talk on the 6th and at this morning’s “2+2,” did Japan not request the United States to review the quarantine exemption under SOFA, or more accurately, the 1996 agreement of the Japan-U.S. Joint Committee? Are there any plans to make such a request? Or does Japan have any intention to negotiate with the United States to revise SOFA and restore the sovereignty that has been deprived of Japan including the quarantine rights?

Minister Hayashi: Regarding novel coronavirus infections among personnel of the U.S. Forces, as I stated earlier, we have been discussing with the United States and responding to the situation with the cooperation of the United States, including among local health authorities, based on SOFA and associated agreements. We have no intention to revise SOFA. As I requested the U.S. side at yesterday’s Japan-U.S. Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Talk and at today’s Japan-U.S. “2+2,” Japan and the United States will further strengthen coordination and Japan will continue to make utmost efforts to alleviate local anxieties.

Minami-Nippon Shimbun, Nishi: The “2+2” Joint Statement states that the United States welcomed Japan’s decision in its draft budget to fund the construction of the Mageshima facility. This was stated in the 2011 document, and the plan is finally materializing. Please tell us your thoughts and your response to the United States’ welcoming of the decision.

Minister Hayashi: After this, a press briefing is scheduled to be held regarding the details. Please ask for the details regarding your question at the briefing.