Japan Conveys Wish to Hold Summit with N. Korea: Takaichi

Tokyo, Nov. 3 (Jiji Press)–Japan has conveyed its wish to hold a summit with North Korea to address the issue of Japanese nationals kidnapped to the country, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Monday. “I want to make a breakthrough and resolve the abduction issue during my term,” Takaichi said, underscoring her determination to seek the resolution through a top-level meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Takaichi made the remarks as she attended a national rally aimed at achieving the return of all abductees in Tokyo for the first time. But she did not say whether North Korea has responded. “If the abduction issue is resolved, not only Japan but also North Korea and the international community will benefit greatly,” she said. “I hope to achieve concrete results by facing Kim and taking the lead in acting boldly.” The rally was also attended by Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara, minister in charge of the abduction issue. “This is an ongoing issue. If the Japanese people unite their hearts and show a strong determination to realize the return of all abductees as soon as possible, that will help resolve the issue,” Kihara said. When U.S. President Donald Trump visited Japan last week, Takaichi arranged for him to meet with families of abductees and asked for U.S. cooperation in resolving the issue. Trump promised the families that he will “do everything within our power” to solve the problem. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]