Press Conference by Foreign Minister MOTEGI

… <div class="text"><div class="any-area"><p><span class="bold">Ryukyu Shimpo, JAHANA:</span> I would like to ask about the revision of the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA). I understand that former Prime Minister ISHIBA was eager to revise it, but the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) seems reluctant to pursue such revision. On the other hand, Japan Innovation Party, the LDP&rsquo;s coalition partner, has indicated its view for fundamental revision of SOFA. Although the fundamental revision is not included in the 12 policy demands that Japan Innovation Party presented to the LDP as requirements for the coalition agreement, could you share your current views on whether Japan will undertake a fundamental revision or pursue improvements in operation?</p> <p><span class="bold">Foreign Minister MOTEGI:</span> First, to the best of my recollection, Former Prime Minister ISHIBA expressed his desire to revise the Japan-U.S. SOFA before he took office as Prime Minister. Regarding the Japan-U.S. SOFA, the Government has addressed specific issues one by one through the most appropriate measures that enable effective and quick responses according to the nature of the matters and cases that need to be addressed.</p> <p>For example, the Government concluded two supplementary agreements, one in 2015 on environmental stewardship and one in 2017 on the civilian component.</p> <p>On the Japan-U.S. SOFA, while we are fully aware that there are various opinions, including those of Japan Innovation Party, the Government intends to constantly explore how the Japan-U.S. SOFA should be structured, by building on these efforts we have made thus far.</p> …