Asahi, Mainichi, Yomiuri, and Sankei reported that Foreign Minister Hayashi met with visiting UN Secretary General Guterres at MOFA on Monday and told him that Japan “strongly condemns” the ballistic missile launches by the Chinese military on Aug. 4 as “a grave matter that involves Japanese security.” Hayashi also reportedly said “the actions by the Chinese side seriously affect the peace and stability of the international community.” The paper said the two officials also shared “deep concern” over the rising tensions in the region and agreed on the importance of relaxing tensions.

Asahi and Sankei reported on a press conference by UN Secretary General Guterres at the Japan National Press Club on Monday, during which he said that “reaching a ceasefire is difficult under the current circumstances” in Ukraine and expressed concern that the fighting will be prolonged.