Press Conferences

Yamazaki, Fuji TV: Regarding the issue of China’s Air Defense Identification Zone, while Japan’s Self-Defense Forces have been operating its aircrafts as usual, there seems to be no signs of China revoking the establishment of the ADIZ. In that context, what specific measures or responses will the Ministry of Foreign Affairs take, going forward?

Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida: China’s establishment of ADIZ this time is dangerous as it unilaterally changes the status quo, escalates the situation and could cause unintended consequences. Japan will continue to urge China to revoke the measures that infringe the freedom of flight in international airspace. Further, the safety of civilian aircrafts must be ensured and we will call on China not to impose unduly obligations to civilian aircrafts.

With regard to this case, Japan is closely cooperating and consulting with our ally, the U.S.. U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden is planned to visit Japan on December 2, and I believe this issue will be raised on that occasion as well.

As a new development, on November 28 yesterday, I am aware that the EU expressed concerns over this matter. We will maintain close cooperation with relevant countries and partners with interest in the stability of the region.

The Government of Japan will continue to respond firmly but in a calm manner against China’s attempt to unilaterally alter the status quo by coercive measures with determination to defend resolutely its territorial land, sea and airspace. At the same time, we will maintain our attitude that the door for dialogue is always open. Dialogue is all the more important at times like this.

Mizuuchi, Sankei Shimbun: In respect of the visit to Japan by U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden, he is scheduled to visit China and the ROK following Japan, according to news reports. Once again on the ADIZ issue, what are your expectations for this meeting?

Minister Kishida: Firstly, we must explain in concrete terms Japan’s view and the actual situations regarding China’s establishment of ADIZ. Japan and the U.S. have maintained close partnership by steadily conducting communications and consultations. These will be clearly confirmed at the meeting. I have been told that Vice-President Biden will visit China and the ROK upon confirmation of Japan’s view and our partnership. I believe it is also important to have him clearly refer to this during his visits.

Kikuchi, Asahi Shimbun: Do you intend to confer with the ROK specifically on this issue? ROK Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se has expressed that the ROK side must also make efforts regarding Japan-ROK relations. In addition, you will be attending the Japan-ROK Parliamentarians’ League this late afternoon. How do you view Japan-ROK relations going forward?

Minister Kishida: I have consistently said that dialogue with the ROK is important including but not limited to this issue, and that Japan’s door for dialogue is always open. I believe communication on various opportunities is vital and we will strive to hold communication at higher levels.

Watanabe, NHK: In relation to the ADIZ, are there any intentions to consult with the Chinese side, hold talks or open communication channels for discussion, so as to avoid contingencies?

Minister Kishida: I have not been briefed on any concrete moves at this point. However, as I have mentioned earlier, Japan’s position is that dialogue is all the more crucial in times like this. We will stay firm in maintaining this fundamental position.

Watanabe, NHK: As for the fire in the Embassy of Japan in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, there have been some media reports that the Metropolitan Police Department of Japan, the investigative authority, confirmed arson. What are the facts and what reports have you received?

Minister Kishida: MOFA has been examining the fire. We have consulted the police and it is our understanding that the police have been investigating the incident. MOFA hopes to closely cooperate with the police investigation, but I will refrain from making concrete remarks, as revealing the content of the consultation and the situation of the investigation at this point can influence on the investigation itself. We will pay close attention to the developments of the investigation.