Press Conferences
Press Conference by Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA Yoko
Friday, October 6, 2023, 11:17 a.m. Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Japanese
Opening Remarks
(1) Foreign Minister Kamikawa’s Visit to Southeast Asia
Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs: From October 8 to 13, I will be visiting Brunei, Viet Nam, the Lao PDR, and Thailand, for the first bilateral visit since assuming office as Minister for Foreign Affairs.
I will hold meetings with government officials of each country, including Foreign Minister II Erywan in Brunei, Foreign Minister Son in Viet Nam, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay in the Lao PDR, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree in Thailand.
Through this visit, I will reaffirm that Japan will continue to work closely to uphold and strengthen a free and open international order based on the rule of law with each country, which are Japan’s important partners. I will also discuss deepening bilateral cooperation in a range of areas, such as the economy, politics and security, people-to-people exchanges, and responses to regional and international issues and global challenges.
Furthermore, I will confirm that Japan will continue to work closely to successfully hold the Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in December this year.
(2) Emergency Grant Aid for the displaced persons in Armenia and Azerbaijan, and in response to the flood disaster in the eastern part of Libya
Minister Kamikawa: Today, the Government of Japan decided to extend Emergency Grant Aid amounting to a total of USD 5 million for the displaced persons in Armenia and Azerbaijan, and in response to the flood disaster in the eastern part of Libya.
For Armenia and Azerbaijan, based on the fact that more than 100,000 persons have been displaced due to Azerbaijan’s military activities on September 19, the Government of Japan will implement Emergency Grant Aid of USD 2 million through international organizations, in areas such as non-food items, health, and others.
For Libya, in response to the devastating damage caused by the flood disaster that struck eastern Libya on September 10 and 11, the Government of Japan will implement Emergency Grant Aid of USD 3 million through international organizations, in areas of health, water, and others.
The Government of Japan will swiftly implement this assistance and will continue to stand by the people of these areas and stands ready to consider further assistance as necessary, in response to the needs on the ground.
(3) Foreign Minister Kamikawa’s Activities in Japan(Round Two)
Minister Kamikawa: As we already issued in a press release, and as I stated recently, on October 4, I participated in a luncheon hosted by the Council of Arab Ambassadors in Japan, as the second round of my proactive outreach effort.
I was able to reunite with H.E. Ambassador Waleed Ali SIAM, Representative of the Permanent General Mission of Palestine, a longtime friend I have known even before I became Foreign Minister, as well as with other old friends, and conducted meaningful exchanges of views.
In addition, yesterday, October 5, I attended the opening ceremony for the “Welcoming Japan – through Diplomats’ Eyes 2023” photo exhibition, which was held in the presence of Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado. This exhibition displays photos that were taken in Japan by foreign ambassadors and diplomats who are stationed here. It is a venerable event organized at the diplomatic corps’ initiative, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year.
The photographs are of course excellent. On top of that, the perspective of many diplomats left me awe-struck, and I was deeply impressed by the numerous works that capture the charms of Japan that Japanese people often overlook. The exhibition will be held in Tokyo until October 9 and then in Kobe, Yokohama, and other places. I hope that many people will visit the photography exhibition and have an opportunity to appreciate the charms of Japan and its connections with the world.
I intend to continue such outreach activities.
That is all from me.
Foreign Minister Kamikawa’s Visit to Southeast Asia
Yomiuri Shimbun, Yoda: My question is related to the overseas visit that you mentioned in your opening remarks. Last year, Prime Minister Kishida visited both Thailand and Viet Nam of the four countries you will be visiting, and Former Minister Hayashi also visited Thailand. What outcomes do you expect from your visits this time?
Minister Kamikawa: From October 8 to 13, I will be visiting Brunei, Viet Nam, the Lao PDR, and Thailand, for the first bilateral visit since assuming office as Minister for Foreign Affairs. I will also take this opportunity to hold meetings with the Ministers and dignitaries of each country.
This year marks a truly historic occasion of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, and I will be paying my visits in this regard.
Last month, I took part in the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week, fully aware that this year is the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. I sensed that UN member states have high expectations toward ASEAN for the situation in Southeast Asia. Therefore, I have decided to visit this region in order to further elevate Japan-ASEAN relations.
The details are as I stated in my opening remarks. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Viet Nam. Through this visit, I intend to confirm that Japan and the respective countries will promote bilateral cooperation in a range of areas, such as the economy, politics and security, and people-to-people exchanges, and discuss responses to regional and international issues.
Thailand, where approximately 80,000 Japanese people live and approximately 6,000 Japanese companies operate, is Japan’s largest hub in Southeast Asia. In addition, Thailand is currently the ASEAN Country Coordinator for Japan. I intend to build relations with the new government, and discuss strengthening close economic cooperation and responses to international issues and other matters.
Mainichi Shimbun, Kawauchi: I would like to ask follow-up questions. This is the first time you are visiting overseas for reasons other than attending an international conference. Why did you choose ASEAN countries as the destinations of your bilateral visits? In addition, while you already mentioned it briefly, could you explain the objectives of this visit in view of the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit in December? Please share your expected outcomes as well.
Minister Kamikawa: ASEAN countries have achieved remarkable economic growth in recent years. With a population of approximately 670 million people, ASEAN countries are now a dynamic epicentrum of growth in the world. Japan and ASEAN have been working together for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region, not just as close business partners but also as true friends with “heart-to-heart” relations.
In addition, this year is a historic occasion of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. The Commemorative Summit in December will be a crucial opportunity for both sides to build on the progress and achievements made to date, and jointly set out the future direction of Japan-ASEAN relations and a new vision for cooperation in anticipation of our common issues. In this sense, I recognize that it is one of the most important diplomatic events that are scheduled for the remainder of the year. It is from this point of view that I, a foreign minister overseeing the final preparations for summit diplomacy, chose these four countries as the destinations for my first bilateral visits.
Moreover, I will fulfill my role to ensure that Japan and the four ASEAN countries can work together and achieve outcomes in the priority tasks I have assigned to myself, which are to further strengthen our economic ties, advance the rule of law, vigorously promote the “Women, Peace, and Security (WPS)” agenda, and join together in increasing resilience and finding solutions to global issues.
Japan-Republic of Korea (ROK) Relations (Japan-Republic of Korea (ROK) Vice-Ministerial Strategic Dialogue)
NHK, Igarashi: I would like to ask about Japan-ROK relations. Yesterday, a Vice-Ministerial Strategic Dialogue between Japan and the ROK was held for the first time in nine years. Please tell us your reaction. In addition, do you have any intention to visit the ROK, including for a Japan-China-ROK Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, and if so, when will it be?
Minister Kamikawa: First, a Japan-ROK Vice-Ministerial Strategic Dialogue was held for the first time in nine years on October 5 in Seoul, ROK, as was agreed upon at the Japan-ROK Summit Meeting held in March of this year. The dialogue was extremely meaningful. We will have further communication between diplomatic authorities under the Japanese and ROK leaders, who are driving the bilateral relationship forward with strong leadership.
Second, the Government would like to refrain from answering about diplomatic schedules, including my visit to the ROK, based on speculation. However, I will work to ensure that a future visit to the ROK moves us to the next step.
Nikkei Shimbun, Nemoto: I also would like to ask questions related to Japan-ROK relations. It will soon be 25 years since the Japan-ROK Joint Statement was issued. Please share with us your thoughts on how the future Japan-ROK relationship should be, considering the improvements made under the Kishida administration. Additionally, ROK Ambassador to Japan Yun has expressed expectations for a new statement from Prime Minister Kishida and President Yoon. Could you give your view on this as well?
Minister Kamikawa: Could you please repeat your question?
Nikkei Shimbun, Nemoto: It will soon be 25 years since the Japan-ROK Joint Statement was issued. Please tell us your thoughts on developing the Japan-ROK relationship. Furthermore, the ROK Ambassador to Japan has expressed expectations for a new statement from Prime Minister Kishida and President Yoon. Please share with us your view.
Minister Kamikawa: As I just briefly mentioned, we attach great importance to the fact that a Japan-ROK Vice-Ministerial Strategic Dialogue was held for the first time in nine years on October 5 in Seoul, ROK. We will have further communication between diplomatic authorities to effectively address the issues.
There was a question earlier on my visit to the ROK, but I would like to refrain from answering about future schedules based on speculation. So I have no details ready to be shared. I had a very good meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs Park Jin in New York recently. Keeping this momentum, I hope to exchange candid views on various topics and achieve outcomes.
Situation in Russia (Statements of President Putin, etc.)
Kyodo News, Hayashi: I have a question concerning Russia. President Putin criticized Japan’s sanctions on Russia and stated that it is ready to hold dialogues if Japan considers the timing to be appropriate. What is your reaction? Additionally, could you explain again Japan’s foreign policy toward Russia, including on the Northern Territories issue? Please also share your reaction to Ukraine’s announcement that 50 people died as a result of a missile attack by the Russian forces.
Minister Kamikawa: We are aware of the statements of President Putin you are referring to.
Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is an outrageous act, which shakes the very foundation of the international order. First, Russia must stop its aggression as soon as possible. Japan has been and will continue to coordinate with the international community, including the G7, in making diplomatic efforts, such as imposing strong sanctions against Russia.
At the same time, with regard to matters that need to be addressed by Japan and Russia as neighboring countries, Japan will respond appropriately in the context of its foreign policy as a whole from the perspective of what will contribute to the national interests of Japan.
We also intend to adhere to the policy of resolving the Northern Territories issue and concluding a peace treaty.
As to your second question, we are aware that, yesterday, October 5, Kharkiv in the eastern part of Ukraine was attacked, and according to the announcement of the Government of Ukraine, there have been numerous civilian casualties.
Japan takes it extremely seriously that many civilians are victims of Russia’s attacks in various regions of Ukraine. Attacks on civilians and civilian facilities are a violation of international law. Such actions can never be justified, and Japan strongly condemns them.
As the aggression continues, we have been strongly continuing sanctions against Russia and support for Ukraine to realize a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. We will continue these efforts in close cooperation with the international community.
Visit to Russia by House of Councillors member SUZUKI Muneo
TASS Russian News Agency, Agafonov:: In connection with Japan-Russia relations, I would like to ask about the visit to Russia by House of Councillors member Suzuki from the Nippon Ishin (Japan Innovation Party). I heard that Diet member Suzuki held a meeting with Deputy Foreign Minister Rudenko in Moscow and asked for the resumption of grave visits by the former island residents and commencement of negotiations on safe operations of Japanese fishing vessels. Are there plans for Diet member Suzuki, who came back to Japan, to brief the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) about the meeting and Russia’s position?
Minister Kamikawa: We are aware of the reports on House of Councillors member Suzuki’s comments, and the Russian announcement.
At this time, there are no plans for MOFA to be briefed on the details of Diet member Suzuki’s visit to Russia.
In any case, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is an outrageous act, which shakes the very foundation of the international order. Japan has been and will continue to coordinate with the international community, including the G7, in making diplomatic efforts, such as imposing strong sanctions against Russia.
ALPS Treated Water
NHK, Igarashi: My question is related to ALPS treated water. Yesterday, TEPCO began its second discharge into the sea of treated water that is accumulating at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China issued a statement that it firmly opposes the unilateral discharge. China’s embargo remains in place. How do you intend to obtain China’s understanding on this issue?
Minister Kamikawa: The first discharge of ALPS treated water into the sea was initiated on August 24. The monitoring results have shown that the discharge is proceeding safely as planned. Subsequently, equipment inspections have found no unusual situations in particular as well.
We are aware that the second discharge was initiated yesterday. We will continue to provide detailed explanations of the monitoring results and Japan’s initiatives with high transparency, domestically and internationally in close cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and strive to further spread an appropriate understanding.
Japan has been responding sincerely to China’s concerns that have been expressed in a variety of ways at various levels and occasions, providing careful responses and explanations. We will continue such efforts and urge China to take actions based on scientific evidence, including immediately repealing the import restrictions on Japanese food products.
Yomiuri Shimbun, Yoda: I have a question related to the issue. Concerning treated water, do you have any intention of holding a Japan-China Foreign Ministers’ Meeting to coincide with the Japan-China-ROK Foreign Ministers’ Meeting now being arranged, or holding a Japan-China Summit Meeting to coincide with the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, and urge China to repeal its measures?
Minister Kamikawa: At this time, nothing is decided about a meeting with China. In any case, Japan will continue to provide detailed explanations of its position to the international community, including China, and strive to deepen its understanding with high transparency based on scientific evidence. We will continue to make such efforts and urge China to take actions based on scientific evidence, including immediately repealing import restrictions on Japanese food products.
Removal of McCarthy as Speaker of the United States House of Representatives
Asahi Shimbun, Matsuyama: I have a question about the turmoil in the U.S. Congress. On October 3, Mr. McCarthy was removed as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. Some note that it may stall the United States-led military support for Ukraine. Do you anticipate any impact on Japan, a U.S. ally, with regard to military support?
Minister Kamikawa: I will refrain from commenting on matters concerning the internal affairs of other countries, including congressional discussions on support for Ukraine. Japan is following the situation with concern.
That being said, the Japan-U.S. Alliance is unwavering. We view that its importance is recognized across party lines in the United States.
ROK Embassy Vehicles in Violation of Japanese Laws and Regulations
Fuji TV, Miyaji: We found through our investigation that ROK Embassy vehicles with diplomatic license plates are being driven around with fully tinted windows. How will MOFA be addressing violations by vehicles with diplomatic license plates?
Minister Kamikawa: MOFA inquired with the ROK Embassy in Tokyo about this matter and found that tint films not conforming with Japanese laws and regulations were applied to some embassy vehicles. We were informed that the embassy has already taken measures to ensure the vehicles conform to laws and regulations.
Under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, diplomatic corps have a duty to respect the laws and regulations of the receiving state. MOFA will continue to alert all diplomatic corps in Tokyo to comply with Japan’s traffic laws and regulations.