Regarding the abduction issue by North Korea, Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno met with the governors of Kanagawa and Niigata prefectures, who were aiming to rescue the victims as soon as possible. I emphasized the idea of doing my best.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno, who is in charge of the abduction issue, met with Governor Kuroiwa of Kanagawa Prefecture and Governor Hanazuno of Niigata Prefecture of the "Governors' Association for the Rescue of Victims Kidnapped by North Korea" at the Prime Minister's Office.
In the meeting, Governor Kuroiwa and others handed over a written request, in anticipation of the Japan-North Korea Summit Meeting, to hold consultations to rescue the victims, and to refrain from normalizing diplomatic relations and not providing economic assistance unless the abduction issue is resolved. I was.
In response, Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said, ``The abduction issue is the most important issue for the Kishida Cabinet. I will do my best," he replied.
Governor Kuroiwa told reporters, "It's painful as your family is getting old. It's a very difficult situation, but we can't give up. I want to work hand in hand with the government and make steady progress toward a solution." I was.