My understanding is that a direction has been shown toward (resolving the issue).

The U.S. must strictly follow the rules it agreed upon with Japan, and ensure that such an incident never occurs again.

He is a good premier and I want him to continue,

will move ahead step by step by taking the necessary procedures.

It is unfortunate there has been the development that we have had to interrupt the trade of beef with the United States. But once the problem is resolved, probably we are going to resume the...

With regards to the area under my jurisdiction, Japan has harmonized its policy with the EU and the United States,

Specialists have given an answer after intense discussion. Looking ahead, I will implement the processes that are needed such as clearing up the issue of food safety and gaining the understanding of the general public.

I do not know exactly at what stage it can be resolved.

Yes, I’m worried … they’re a country that’s trying to become a market economy and we need them to take a proper response,

Japan is ready for compromise when it is necessary, (but) we will be aggressively demanding a certain part in the negotiations while we make concessions in other areas,

I am not considering leaving my post.

It’s a scary country.

In agriculture, there are things we must protect and those are sensitive products. Rice is of course included among sensitive products for Japan.

I apologize for not fully explaining that there had been a change in the plan.

If a private company were to start activities in the area,

It will not serve our purpose to help, to embark upon such discussions at this point in time, for the sake of Japanese consumers and also for the sake of U.S. producers.

To restore consumer confidence, Japan may need to take its own measures, including inspections of designated facilities, for example.

People around the world are wondering whether it’s all right to pursue economic activity (in China),

I had an impression that ground battles will kick off from now on.

Five state-of-the-art warships equipped with missiles came (to the area) on September 9,

A thorough investigation needs to be conducted.

We are not planning to release any government-controlled crude oil stocks at this time,

We will make efforts so that China won’t come. We will appeal to the international community,

If it is indeed a risky portion, it is against the import program and quite regrettable.

We have to start over from zero regarding preventive measures.

The number of pipes was obviously too many to just [drill] down. Then what are they for? I can assume the reason, but I’d rather not speak out,

If the US side wants us to import and eat it, it should strictly abide by rules which have been agreed on between Japan and the United States.

I’m a cabinet minister.

I admire Mr. Koizumi, who stood by his beliefs, … All China has to do is show a mature reaction. It’s not for us to predict whether (the visit) had an effect or not.

The rest of the negotiations under the WTO (Doha Round) to be sealed by April 30 will be very, very serious.

Our country needs to cope with supply disruptions on the international market and we need to prioritise product supply (over crude), … So we decided to cut mandatory commercial stock levels.