(Asahi: November 3, 2015 – p. 4)
Following is the gist of remarks made by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to reporters after the Japan-ROK summit on Nov. 2:
Japan-ROK summit
We were able to engage in a candid exchange of views. The comfort women issue was also discussed. This issue must not remain an obstacle for the future generations in building a future-oriented cooperative relationship. We agreed to step up negotiations for an agreement as soon as possible, bearing in mind that this year marks the 50th anniversary of normalization of diplomatic relations. The Japanese side asserted its position on various pending issues and urged the ROK to take action promptly. Candid discussions at the leader level are necessary for the improvement of Japan-ROK relations. I think this is a good start.
Japan-China-ROK summit
It is of great significance to all three countries and the region that a Japan-ROK-China summit was held after an interval of three years and six months. The agreement to normalize the Japan-ROK-China process and resume regular summit meetings is a major achievement. We hope this will pave the way for holding the summit in Japan next year.
Japan-China summit
We were able to boost the trend of improvement of ties based on a mutually beneficial strategic relationship at the Japan-China summit. We engaged in candid exchange of views on pending issues. For sure, I asserted Japan’s position as appropriate. It is also important for the Japan-China relationship that we say what needs to be said. I will not be able to reveal what specific issues were discussed for now since this also has to do with the Chinese side.
