FAQ about KonoTaro
Q.Why did you repeatedly say "Next question, please" during the press conference when you were Foreign Minister?
A.Before that press conference, several reporters had told me they planned to ask questions about the Japan-Russia negotiations.
I had explained that I would not be able to answer questions about the content of the negotiations or the government’s stance or ideas. The reporters responded that they understood but were instructed by their respective companies to ask those questions anyway, even though they knew I couldn’t answer. During the actual press conference, questions about Japan-Russia relations came up, but since it was already understood that I couldn’t answer, I responded with "Next question, please." The reporters understood the situation, but I think those who watched the video might have been confused. In retrospect, considering those watching the video, I should have been more polite and said, "I cannot answer questions regarding the Japan-Russia negotiations."