Press Conferences

Foreign Minister MOTEGI Toshimitsu: Following my remarks regarding my appointment as Foreign Minister at yesterday’s press conference, I would like to take your questions today.

Kyodo News, ONDA: I would like to ask about your social media posts. The short videos posted on X during your overseas visits have been very well received, with your recent video from Munich garnering one million views so far. This popularity has also boosted view counts on the official account of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Please share with us what you keep in mind when making these communications, and how you view their significance. Thank you.

Foreign Minister MOTEGI: I feel that the public’s interest in diplomacy is growing, partly due to changes in the international situation, and it is becoming increasingly important to steadily advance foreign policy with the understanding of the public.

While the media have reported a wide range of topics, since assuming the office of Foreign Minister I have made an effort to explain the objectives of the meetings I attend and the outcomes achieved, straight from the venue, and in my own words. The social media posts are a part of these efforts.

In order to spark the interest of as many people as possible, or to make diplomacy and foreign countries feel more accessible, I have sought to share glimpses of the front lines of diplomacy by introducing moments such as coffee breaks and the local cuisine. I am very grateful for the many positive responses these efforts have received.

Some videos have received millions of views, while others have not reached that level but there is no doubt that the view count has significantly increased, including those from MOFA. We will continue to take various opportunities to disseminate information in a timely and appropriate manner.

Jiji Press, CHIBA: The inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace, hosted by President Trump, was held on February 19 in Washington, D.C. I have two questions related to this. First, regarding the issue of Gaza, how will Japan engage with the Board of Peace? Secondly, President Trump has expressed his intention to extend the Board’s mandate beyond settling the conflict in Gaza. What is your view on this, and how does Japan intend to engage with the Board of Peace as a whole? These are my two questions.

Foreign Minister MOTEGI: On February 19, at the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace (Leaders’ Level), Mr. OKUBO, Ambassador in charge of Gaza Reconstruction Assistance attended as an observer from Japan, with the aim of contributing to the discussions and efforts toward the rebuilding of Gaza.

Japan has consistently supported President Trump’s efforts toward peace in the Middle East, including in Gaza, based on Japan’s position of actively contributing to the realization of peace and stability in the Middle East. With regard to the Board of Peace, which relates to your question, Japan is currently examining the details while maintaining close communication with the United States and other relevant countries. We will continue to consider Japan’s response.

In any event, Japan is determined to continue playing a proactive role in the reconstruction of Gaza. We will further advance our efforts, including sustained engagement in the governance mechanism of Gaza, comprehensive support for the state-building efforts of Palestine, and expanding the network of assistance in Asia.

Independent Web Journal, HAMAMOTO: I have a question on the Epstein files. Following the release of the Epstein files by the U.S. Department of Justice, there has been a series of resignations and dismissals of dignitaries in the U.S., as well as in countries such as the U.K., France, Norway, Slovakia. This is not only an internal political matter for the U.S., but also a serious issue that could develop into a diplomatic matter involving prominent figures in several countries. As national governments, foreign ministries, and investigative authorities conduct investigations into the relationships between their diplomats or politicians and Mr. Epstein, I think the Government of Japan and MOFA should also conduct a full-scale investigation. Please share your view. Thank you.

Foreign Minister MOTEGI: I believe nothing has emerged to suggest the involvement of Japanese politicians or government officials. MOFA is not aware of any such involvement at this point in time.

Asian News International, ITAGAKI: Next week, Mr. Yogi, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh of India, will visit Japan. He will be welcomed by the Japan-India Governors’ Network for Friendship and Exchange, which is comprised of the governors of nine prefectures, including Yamanashi Prefecture. I understand that Mr. Yogi will hold business discussions, while also visiting sites such as linear motor car and green hydrogen facilities. What are your thoughts on such local government-level initiatives with India, a close partner of Japan? Please also tell us what kind of involvement might be possible going forward.

Foreign Minister MOTEGI: Local-level exchanges between Japan and India are essential for expanding the range of friendly bilateral relations, and the two leaders agreed to promote exchanges between local governments during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Japan last year.

MOFA will fully support these initiatives, including Chief Minister Yogi’s visit to Japan.