Tokyo, Oct. 11 (Jiji Press)–Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara on Sunday voiced serious concern over U.S. sanctions on The Hague, the Netherlands-based International Criminal Court. Appearing in a television program of Japan Broadcasting Corp., or NHK, the top government spokesman said that Japan consistently supports international courts, also including the International Court of Justice, based in The Hague. “I am deeply concerned over the U.S. sanctions (on the ICC), which are inconsistent with Japan’s position,” Kihara said. “Continuing efforts to strengthen the rule of law in the international community is the stance of our country,” he added. U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, which criticizes the ICC for threatening the country’s sovereignty, added the court to its sanctions list Friday. The United States, which is not an ICC member, took similar actions earlier against senior officials of the court, including its president, Tomoko Akane, a Japanese national. On Saturday, the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute that established the ICC issued a statement calling for the “immediate revocation” of the U.S. sanctions. Kihara welcomed the move, saying it is “based on Japan’s position.” Also in the TV program, Kihara discussed a bill to cut Japan’s consumption tax to 1 pct from 8 pct for foods and beverages for two years from Fiscal 2027, which begins next April. He said that the government will thoroughly review existing special tax breaks, subsidies and funds to eke out alternative revenue. The tax reduction is aimed at cushioning the impact of rising prices. The bill, submitted by the government recently, is a key focus in the ongoing extraordinary session of the Diet, the country’s parliament. The government also plans to introduce a benefit program linked to income levels. On the scope of recipients and the amounts of benefits, Kihara only said that the government will consider the issues toward year-end. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]
