Press Conferences

Reporter: There appear to be signs that North Korea is preparing for a new nuclear test. I believe the Government is continuing to gather and analyze information. Could you explain the content of what it has confirmed?

Mr. Fumio Kishida, Minister for Foreign Affairs: The Government will continue to put its utmost effort into gathering and analyzing information on developments in North Korea. Regarding new signs and other developments that you mentioned, at this stage, I must refrain from speaking about detailed information due to the nature of the topic. I believe the Government must continue to work extensively to gather and analyze information and also put its utmost efforts into warning and surveillance and other activities to be ready for a variety of situations.

Reporter: Regarding independent sanctions, can you share any details on the timing of a decision or the extent to which the scope might be broadened?

Minister Kishida: The UN Security Council has already issued a press statement, and various efforts are taking place to pass a new resolution that contains further sanction measures. The situation is that various information communications are taking place, including at the bilateral level.

As to Japan’s independent measures from your question, while paying attention to the above-mentioned efforts, Japan intends to continue to consider what steps will be the most effective in resolving various issues including nuclear tests, missile launches and abductions. We also have to consider the most effective timing.

Reporter: I believe Japan and China will hold a high-level consultation on maritime affairs in Hiroshima tomorrow and the following day. I believe that the maritime and aerial communication mechanism and gas-field joint development are likely to be focal points. What are your expectations?

Minister Kishida: This will be the fifth high-level consultation on maritime affairs between Japan and China, and it takes place in Hiroshima on September 14 and 15. I expect a frank exchange of opinions on a wide range of areas of mutual interest to both sides between maritime-related entities from the two countries. I will refrain from mentioning specific topics at this stage, but I hope that this type of opinion exchange and other interactions improve communication among the participants from both countries.