Press Conferences

Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs: I have an announcement.

I will visit Geneva, Switzerland, from today to December 14 to co-convene the Global Refugee Forum (GRF) with France, Colombia, Jordan, and Uganda.

There are more than 100 million refugees and displaced persons due to prolonged conflicts across the globe. The human dignity of especially vulnerable children and women is threatened. I will call for strengthening the unity and cooperation of the international community for improving the humanitarian situation, which is further deteriorating.

The GRF will also be attended by Middle Eastern countries facing refugee issues that are arising from the situation surrounding Israel and Palestine. With regard to the situation in the Gaza Strip, Japan is strongly concerned about the resumption of the fighting and that the combat has expanded to all areas of the Gaza Strip including the southern areas. On the margins of the GRF, I will hold bilateral meetings with the countries concerned and international organizations. I intend to carry out candid discussions in person regarding our recognition of the current situation and its prospects, and continue our diplomatic efforts, including to improve the humanitarian situation and calm down the situation.

I will conduct such seamless diplomacy to enhance Japan’s presence, alongside contributing to the peace and stability of the international community.

That is all from me.

Mainichi Shimbun, Kawaguchi: I would like to ask about the political funds issue surrounding mainly the Abe faction. The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan submitted a no-confidence motion against the Chief Cabinet Secretary yesterday and is also considering submitting one against the cabinet. As the situation stands now, do you believe that the Chief Cabinet Secretary and other cabinet members with suspected involvement have fulfilled their accountability? Additionally, please tell us your thoughts on how Ministers, State Ministers, and Parliamentary Vice-Ministers who are at the core of the Government should fulfill their accountability for this issue.

Minister Kamikawa: At this press conference, I would like to refrain from answering your question regarding the situation of politics from the standpoint of Foreign Minister.

As I have stated since I took office, so as to ensure that Japan’s diplomacy gains the support of the Japanese people, I have advanced evidence-based diplomacy, therefore the diplomacy that is understood and supported by the people, while standing with them and fully incorporating their voices.

I, as Foreign Minister, intend to continue to firmly protect Japan’s national interests with such an approach and enhance Japan’s presence.