REPORTER AND SPOKEMAN DANCE AROUND THE PROBLEM IN JAPAN-UAE RELATIONS

I have previously noted in an earlier Shingetsu Newsletter that there seems to be some kind of trouble in Japan-UAE relations. Regrettably, the Japanese press seems to be refusing to report what is actually going on. However, in a recent press conference at MOFA, a few facts finally came out. Annoyingly, it seems that the reporter asking the questions here is as eager as the MOFA spokesman not to reveal any details. Draw your own conclusions.

Reporter: My question is about an incident that is causing some reaction in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Two citizens of that country arrived on 9 August to Narita Airport on a tourist visa, but they were deported on the basis that they were not convincing tourists and they later caused a lot of trouble. According to an interview by a newspaper there, they were humiliated during the process. It is causing some negative reaction. Are you aware of this incident and what is your comment?

Mr. Taniguchi: Certainly we are aware of the incident. Also, we are aware that that has been reported by the local newspaper. What I can tell you is this. The officers at passport control are the first faces that incoming visitors to Japan are going to see. They have become very much friendly. So it is unfortunate that these people cannot make an entry into Japan. Having said that, that is only my personal view because I cannot speak on behalf of the ministry in charge of passport control. The relevant ministry is not the Ministry of Foreign Affairs but the Ministry of Justice. Having been aware of this, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been in contact with the Ministry of Justice and the Immigration Office. That is all I can say at the moment to you.

Reporter: How do you describe the relations between the two countries?

Mr. Taniguchi: You mean Japan and the UAE?

Reporter: I ask this question because it has been reported that from an immigration point the relations are worsening because of certain factors of which I will not go into detail. Also, last month I think former Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto went there on an official mission.

Mr. Taniguchi: Well I have to learn more about the ongoing tensions if there are any.