Press Conferences

Mr. KITAMURA Toshihiro, Press Secretary: I have two announcements at the outset.

The first is about the already announced diplomatic schedule.

If circumstances permit, Prime Minister Kishida will visit the ROK from September 6 to 7. This will be the part of the implementation of “shuttle diplomacy” resumed by the two leaders.

On the other hand, Foreign Minister Kamikawa will visit Australia from tonight, and will attend the 11th Japan-Australia Foreign and Defence Ministerial Consultations (“2+2”). On the occasion of her visit, she is also scheduled to hold the Japan-Australia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. The objectives of each visit are as already explained by Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi and Foreign Minister Kamikawa, and we, as the diplomatic authority, will also steadily make efforts to realize the objectives.

Press Secretary Kitamura: The second is about Venezuela.

Yesterday, we issued a Press Secretary’s statement on the presidential elections in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Japan continues to call for ensuring the transparency of the presidential election process, so that the will of all Venezuelans who cast their ballots is respected.

That is all from me.

Kyodo News, Iikawa: I would like to ask about the situation in the Middle East. In Gaza, Palestine, the bodies of six hostages have been found. The negotiations over the release of hostages and a ceasefire are proving to be difficult. What is the Government of Japan's view on this?

Press Secretary Kitamura: As you mentioned, we are aware that the Government of Israel announced that the bodies of six hostages who had been taken by Hamas were recovered on August 31. I am deeply saddened and utterly outraged for the killings of innocent hostages. We offer our condolences to the victims and to the bereaved regarding the loss of life.

On the situation surrounding Gaza Strip, even to this day, many people who have been held hostage are yet to be released. In addition, we are deeply concerned that the humanitarian situation on the ground is becoming increasingly dire due to the prolonged fighting. Japan intends to make efforts toward calming down the situation, while closely coordinating with relevant countries including the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt to ensure the release of hostages and a ceasefire.

Press Secretary Kitamura: This concludes the press conference. Today, six interns of Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) happen to be here to observe the press conference. MOFA provides internship opportunities, and I would like to take this opportunity to introduce them. That is all.