Press Conferences

Ms. KOBAYASHI Maki, Press Secretary: I have an announcement at the outset.

Since March 27, 2023, we have gradually introduced online application procedures for various certificates at our diplomatic missions overseas. From January 29, 2024, we will also introduce online application procedures at our diplomatic missions overseas in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

In general, this will enable online applications for various certificates at all diplomatic missions overseas, in addition to those that have already been gradually introducing these services, as I just mentioned.

We expect that this will improve convenience for Japanese nationals overseas, as online applications will also enable online credit card payments.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) will continue to actively promote the digitalization of procedures at all times.

That is all from me.

NHK, Igarashi: I have a question about U.S. military bases. Today, the Naha Branch of the Fukuoka High Court ruled in favor of the Government in a court case concerning the construction to improve the ground off of Henoko in Okinawa, where the U.S. Marine Corps Futenma Air Station is to be relocated, and the construction is expected to proceed. What is MOFA’s reaction and future response to the court’s decision?

Press Secretary Kobayashi: With regard to the ongoing proxy execution trial you mentioned, MOFA is not in a position to comment on the decision.

The Government of Japan believes that steadily advancing the construction toward the relocation to Henoko, based on the policy that the relocation is the only solution, will realize the complete return of Futenma Air Station as swiftly as possible and lead to the elimination of its danger.

As the security environment surrounding Japan is becoming increasingly severe, the Japan-U.S. Alliance and U.S. forces in Japan have an indispensable presence for not only the defense of Japan but also the peace and stability of the region.

To station U.S. forces in Japan smoothly, it is extremely important to obtain the understanding and cooperation of the public, including the local community.

With approximately 70% of all U.S. military facilities and areas in Japan concentrated in Okinawa Prefecture, the Government recognizes that reducing Okinawa’s burden from the bases is an important issue.

MOFA has been making utmost efforts to reduce the burden on Okinawa and local communities, and is moving forward one step at a time, in cooperation with the U.S. and relevant ministries and agencies, on issues concerning the realignment of U.S. forces in Japan, U.S. military operations, and the Status of Forces Agreement.

We will continue to exert all efforts to reduce the burden on Okinawa and for the complete return of Futenma Air Station as soon as possible, while working closely with the relevant ministries and agencies.

Kyodo News, Hayashi: U.S. Secretary of Defense Austin has announced the establishment of a multinational force to protect merchant vessels in the Red Sea. It seems that the U.K., Canada, and other countries will join. I believe Japan is not currently participating, and would it be correct to say that Japan will not join in the future, either? Please confirm this and the Government’s policy.

Press Secretary Kobayashi: I am aware of the announcement.

In light of recent incidents in the Red Sea, the Government of Japan has been engaged in various exchanges with countries concerned, including the United States, to ensure safe navigation, and we are carefully considering the matter in light of the current framework. Due to our relations with the other countries, I will refrain from providing further details.

In any case, Japan will continue to work closely with the international community, including the forces of other countries, to appropriately conduct counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden, while ensuring the safety of Japanese forces. We will also continue our close cooperation with countries concerned to contribute to the stabilization of the surrounding waters, including the Red Sea.

Kyodo News, Hayashi: In that case, would it be correct to understand that the Government of Japan will consider whether or not to join the coalition?

Press Secretary Kobayashi: We are carefully considering the matter in light of the current framework.