Press Conferences

Kurihara, NHK: Two Japanese nationals were injured in the series of terror attacks in Belgium. Please explain any updates on the conditions of the injured Japanese people and the current situation. Also, what type of message do you intend to communicate from the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on countering this type of violent extremism and terrorism?

Mr. Fumio Kishida, Minister for Foreign Affairs: Regarding injuries to Japanese nationals from the terror attacks in Belgium, the Government has confirmed that one person was seriously injured and one person was lightly injured. The seriously injured person has not regained consciousness yet, but I hear that his condition is stable. I am praying for a quick recovery, and the Government, mainly through the local Embassy, is providing full support to the injured person and his family. The Government intends to give firm assistance.

I think the latest terror attacks in Belgium reaffirm the importance of measures to counter terrorism and violent extremism. I expect measures for countering terrorism and violent extremism to be one of the priority themes at the upcoming G7 Summit. I think it is necessary to hold a robust discussion.

Kurihara, NHK: The Japanese man in his 20s detained in Turkey returned to Japan after his release. Turkey has an evacuation warning for this region, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had been advising people not to travel there. What are your thoughts about the communication of safety measures to Japanese nationals?

Minister Kishida: It is extremely dangerous to travel into regions with an evacuation warning, and the Government of Japan has strongly urged people not to travel to such areas. The Government has also taken specific measures, such as trying to convince individuals not to travel, when it becomes aware of plans for this type of travel.

I think Japan must redouble its efforts to spread this information in light of the latest case. It also needs to continue efforts to dissuade travel in individual cases when the Government learns of such plans.

Kurihara, NHK: At today’s Cabinet Meeting, the appointment of Yutaka Yokoi, who had been serving as the Ambassador to Turkey, as the new Ambassador of Japan to China was approved. Regarding the aim of this choice, how does Japan intend to move forward with Japan-China relations that are showing signs of improvement?

Minister Kishida: Ambassador Yokoi is an expert on China and has extensive experience. The Ministry selected him in accordance with its policy of putting the right people in the right positions. As for the outlook on China, I believe relations are improving as a whole and that the two countries agree on the necessity of continuing dialogue at all levels and in all areas. Japan intends to continue dialogue. By accumulating dialogue, I hope to move the bilateral relationship forward with a mutually beneficial relationship based on common strategic interests.

Kurihara, NHK: How do things stand in regard to the coordination of the visit to China that you were talking about for this spring?

Minister Kishida: As just mentioned, Japan and China agree with the importance of continuing dialogues that aim to achieve better communication between our two countries in a variety of fields and at all levels. However, at the present point in time nothing specific has been decided regarding my visit to China. We would like to continue our efforts on holding dialogues.

Li, Hong Kong Phoenix TV: Some observers in China are referring to the appointment of Ambassador Yokoi as a sign of Japan’s emphasis on the relationship with China. What are your expectations, particularly in terms of having an Ambassador with in-depth knowledge of China?

Minister Kishida: Of course, Japan views the Japan-China relationship as one of its most important relationships with a neighboring country. Japan thinks the bilateral ties with China are particularly important in terms of the major responsibilities the two countries have for the peace, stability, and prosperity of the world. The Government appointed Ambassador Yokoi, an expert on China, from this recognition as well.

Fujita, Fuji TV: The man detained by Turkey returned yesterday to Japan. Has the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spoken to that person about the background and other circumstances?

Minister Kishida: Turkey has investigated the circumstances. Japan makes communication with Turkey in various ways and I would like to refrain from discussing the specific content.

The man returned last night, and the police are dealing with the situation following his return. I therefore do not intend to discuss the details in light of my position as Foreign Minister.