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2016年05月07日
日比防衛協力 海自機貸与で監視能力高めよ
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Leasing of MSDF aircraft should help Philippines’ patrol capabilities
日比防衛協力 海自機貸与で監視能力高めよ
The Philippines is confronted with China’s attempt to unilaterally change the status quo in the South China Sea by stepping up its maritime activities in the region. In tandem with the United States, Japan should promote multilayered defense cooperation with Manila.
フィリピンが南シナ海で、中国の一方的な海洋進出と現状変更に直面している。日本は、米国と連携し、重層的な防衛協力を進めたい。
Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and his Philippine counterpart Voltaire Gazmin agreed during a telephone conversation that Japan would lease Maritime Self-Defense Force TC-90 training aircraft that have been decommissioned. Up to five TC-90s are likely to be leased. The agreement also calls for Japan to provide education and training of pilots and related equipment as well as to cooperate locally in such operations as the maintenance of the aircraft.
中谷防衛相がフィリピンのガズミン国防相と電話会談し、退役した海上自衛隊の練習機ＴＣ９０を有償貸与することで合意した。最大で５機の見通しだ。操縦士の教育・訓練や関連機材の提供、現地での機体整備などでも協力する。
Many of the planes possessed by the Philippine Navy are outdated and their performance is poor. It is difficult for the Philippine Navy to singlehandedly face up to China, which has been flexing its muscles on the back of its rapid military buildup through such activities as the creation of man-made islands in the South China Sea.
フィリピン海軍が保有する航空機の多くは老朽化が進んでおり、性能も低い。急速な軍備増強を背景に、南シナ海で人工島造成などを強行する中国に、単独で対抗することは難しい。
With a flight range of 1,870 kilometers, the TC-90s would be mobilized for the Philippine military’s warning and surveillance operations and disaster relief activities. As TC-90s are capable of covering most of the Spratly Islands, where China has been building military fortifications, the Philippines’ patrol capabilities will likely be enhanced significantly.
航続距離が１８７０キロと長いＴＣ９０は、フィリピン軍の警戒・監視や災害救援活動などに活用される予定だ。中国が軍事拠点化を進めるスプラトリー（南沙）諸島の大半をカバーできるため、哨戒能力は大幅に向上しよう。
The deal on the lease of TC-90s was initiated at the request of Manila. It is the first application of the Japan-Philippine agreement on defense equipment and transfer of technology that was signed in February based on an accord reached at a bilateral summit meeting in June last year.
今回の貸与は、フィリピンが要請した。昨年６月の日比首脳会談の合意に基づき、今年２月に署名された日比防衛装備品・技術移転協定の最初の適用例となった。
Reasonable deal
The lease is also in keeping with the “three principles on transfer of defense equipment” decided by the government in April 2014, which call for, among other things, preventing the leakage of technology to a third party. By going through the necessary procedures, the lease amounts to reasonable cooperation on defense equipment.
第三国への技術流出防止などを定めた２０１４年４月決定の「防衛装備移転３原則」にも則のっとっている。一連の手続きを適切に踏んでおり、妥当な装備協力である。
MSDF vessels made successive port calls in the Philippines last month.
フィリピンには４月、海自艦船が相次いで寄港した。
The submarine Oyashio, on a training voyage, called at Subic Port with a destroyer in early April. Late in that month, the MSDF’s largest destroyer, the Ise, which carries helicopters, made a goodwill call at the port.
練習航海中の潜水艦「おやしお」と、護衛艦が上旬、スービック港に立ち寄った。下旬には、海自最大級のヘリコプター搭載型護衛艦「いせ」が親善訪問した。
Philippine President Benigno Aquino fully supports the initiative of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s administration for Japan’s “proactive contribution to peace” and highly evaluates the security legislation established by it. Therefore, it is expected the bilateral relationship will be reinforced.
アキノ大統領は、安倍政権の「積極的平和主義」を全面支持し、安全保障法制も高く評価する。２国間関係も強化されよう。
In this connection, it is important for the two countries to closely cooperate with Washington to ensure regional stability.
重要なのは、地域の安定のため米国と緊密に協調することだ。
When U.S. Defense Secretary Ashton Carter conferred with Aquino in Manila in mid-April, it was agreed that the two countries would hold regular joint patrols in the South China Sea.
カーター国防長官は４月中旬、マニラでアキノ氏と会談し、南シナ海で米比の共同哨戒活動を定期的に実施することで合意した。
Within days after this accord, U.S. military aircraft conducted warning and surveillance operations in the vicinity of the Scarborough Shoal, which is claimed both by the Philippines and China. These operations were undertaken in accordance with the U.S.-Philippine agreement.
その直後に、フィリピンと中国が領有権を争うスカボロー礁付近で、米空軍機が警戒・監視活動を行ったのも合意の一環だ。
It is institutionally difficult for the Self-Defense Forces to conduct activities constantly in the South China Sea.
自衛隊が南シナ海で恒常的に活動するのは、体制的に困難だ。
It is essential for the SDF to assist in various ways to build capabilities of the Philippines and other countries concerned while appropriately sharing roles with the U.S. military, thereby contributing to peace in the South China Sea.
米軍と適切に役割分担しつつ、フィリピン軍など当事国の能力構築を様々な手段で支援することを通じて、南シナ海の平和に貢献することが大切である。
These endeavors will certainly lead to ensuring the security of sea-lanes for Japan without allowing China to change the status quo by force.
それが、中国の力による現状変更を認めず、日本自身の海上交通路（シーレーン）の安全を確保することにもつながろう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 5, 2016)
Leasing of MSDF aircraft should help Philippines’ patrol capabilities
日比防衛協力 海自機貸与で監視能力高めよ
The Philippines is confronted with China’s attempt to unilaterally change the status quo in the South China Sea by stepping up its maritime activities in the region. In tandem with the United States, Japan should promote multilayered defense cooperation with Manila.
フィリピンが南シナ海で、中国の一方的な海洋進出と現状変更に直面している。日本は、米国と連携し、重層的な防衛協力を進めたい。
Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and his Philippine counterpart Voltaire Gazmin agreed during a telephone conversation that Japan would lease Maritime Self-Defense Force TC-90 training aircraft that have been decommissioned. Up to five TC-90s are likely to be leased. The agreement also calls for Japan to provide education and training of pilots and related equipment as well as to cooperate locally in such operations as the maintenance of the aircraft.
中谷防衛相がフィリピンのガズミン国防相と電話会談し、退役した海上自衛隊の練習機ＴＣ９０を有償貸与することで合意した。最大で５機の見通しだ。操縦士の教育・訓練や関連機材の提供、現地での機体整備などでも協力する。
Many of the planes possessed by the Philippine Navy are outdated and their performance is poor. It is difficult for the Philippine Navy to singlehandedly face up to China, which has been flexing its muscles on the back of its rapid military buildup through such activities as the creation of man-made islands in the South China Sea.
フィリピン海軍が保有する航空機の多くは老朽化が進んでおり、性能も低い。急速な軍備増強を背景に、南シナ海で人工島造成などを強行する中国に、単独で対抗することは難しい。
With a flight range of 1,870 kilometers, the TC-90s would be mobilized for the Philippine military’s warning and surveillance operations and disaster relief activities. As TC-90s are capable of covering most of the Spratly Islands, where China has been building military fortifications, the Philippines’ patrol capabilities will likely be enhanced significantly.
航続距離が１８７０キロと長いＴＣ９０は、フィリピン軍の警戒・監視や災害救援活動などに活用される予定だ。中国が軍事拠点化を進めるスプラトリー（南沙）諸島の大半をカバーできるため、哨戒能力は大幅に向上しよう。
The deal on the lease of TC-90s was initiated at the request of Manila. It is the first application of the Japan-Philippine agreement on defense equipment and transfer of technology that was signed in February based on an accord reached at a bilateral summit meeting in June last year.
今回の貸与は、フィリピンが要請した。昨年６月の日比首脳会談の合意に基づき、今年２月に署名された日比防衛装備品・技術移転協定の最初の適用例となった。
Reasonable deal
The lease is also in keeping with the “three principles on transfer of defense equipment” decided by the government in April 2014, which call for, among other things, preventing the leakage of technology to a third party. By going through the necessary procedures, the lease amounts to reasonable cooperation on defense equipment.
第三国への技術流出防止などを定めた２０１４年４月決定の「防衛装備移転３原則」にも則のっとっている。一連の手続きを適切に踏んでおり、妥当な装備協力である。
MSDF vessels made successive port calls in the Philippines last month.
フィリピンには４月、海自艦船が相次いで寄港した。
The submarine Oyashio, on a training voyage, called at Subic Port with a destroyer in early April. Late in that month, the MSDF’s largest destroyer, the Ise, which carries helicopters, made a goodwill call at the port.
練習航海中の潜水艦「おやしお」と、護衛艦が上旬、スービック港に立ち寄った。下旬には、海自最大級のヘリコプター搭載型護衛艦「いせ」が親善訪問した。
Philippine President Benigno Aquino fully supports the initiative of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s administration for Japan’s “proactive contribution to peace” and highly evaluates the security legislation established by it. Therefore, it is expected the bilateral relationship will be reinforced.
アキノ大統領は、安倍政権の「積極的平和主義」を全面支持し、安全保障法制も高く評価する。２国間関係も強化されよう。
In this connection, it is important for the two countries to closely cooperate with Washington to ensure regional stability.
重要なのは、地域の安定のため米国と緊密に協調することだ。
When U.S. Defense Secretary Ashton Carter conferred with Aquino in Manila in mid-April, it was agreed that the two countries would hold regular joint patrols in the South China Sea.
カーター国防長官は４月中旬、マニラでアキノ氏と会談し、南シナ海で米比の共同哨戒活動を定期的に実施することで合意した。
Within days after this accord, U.S. military aircraft conducted warning and surveillance operations in the vicinity of the Scarborough Shoal, which is claimed both by the Philippines and China. These operations were undertaken in accordance with the U.S.-Philippine agreement.
その直後に、フィリピンと中国が領有権を争うスカボロー礁付近で、米空軍機が警戒・監視活動を行ったのも合意の一環だ。
It is institutionally difficult for the Self-Defense Forces to conduct activities constantly in the South China Sea.
自衛隊が南シナ海で恒常的に活動するのは、体制的に困難だ。
It is essential for the SDF to assist in various ways to build capabilities of the Philippines and other countries concerned while appropriately sharing roles with the U.S. military, thereby contributing to peace in the South China Sea.
米軍と適切に役割分担しつつ、フィリピン軍など当事国の能力構築を様々な手段で支援することを通じて、南シナ海の平和に貢献することが大切である。
These endeavors will certainly lead to ensuring the security of sea-lanes for Japan without allowing China to change the status quo by force.
それが、中国の力による現状変更を認めず、日本自身の海上交通路（シーレーン）の安全を確保することにもつながろう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 5, 2016)
2016年05月05日
野生トキのひな 人との共生と日中協力が大切
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Cooperation from residents, China key to returning crested ibises to wild
野生トキのひな 人との共生と日中協力が大切
A chick has been born to a pair of wild toki Japanese crested ibises − a species designated as a special natural monument − on Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture. It is the first such delightful news in 40 years. We hope the chick will grow safely.
新潟県の佐渡島で、特別天然記念物トキの野生のつがいから、ひなが誕生した。４０年ぶりの朗報である。ぜひとも無事に育ってほしい。
On Sado Island, artificially raised crested ibises have been released into the wild since 2008. The number of crested ibises that have bred in nature has also increased. The chick hatched this time was born to parents who were born and grew up in nature. It is in the grandchild generation of crested ibises released into the wild.
佐渡島では、人工飼育したトキの放鳥が２００８年から続く。自然の中での繁殖も増えた。今回のひなは、自然界で生まれ育った親鳥の間の子供だ。放鳥されたトキの孫の世代にあたる。
The birth is a major milestone in the return of crested ibises to the wild.
トキの野生復帰に向けた大きな節目と言えよう。
It has been confirmed that there are currently five pairs of wild crested ibises. We probably can expect more crested ibis chicks to be born in the future as well.
現在、５組の野生トキのペアが確認されている。これからも、ひなの誕生が期待できそうだ。
The scientific name for the Japanese crested ibis is Nipponia nippon. One of its characteristics is its rose-pink − called toki color − feathers. The species used to live in a wide area of East Asia and was a familiar wild bird in Japan, too.
トキは「ニッポニア・ニッポン」の学名を持つ。朱鷺とき色と呼ばれる淡紅色の羽が特徴だ。かつては東アジアに広く分布し、国内でも身近な野鳥だった。
However, the number of crested ibises sharply dropped due to overhunting for their feathers in the Meiji era (1868-1912) and afterward as well as the deterioration of their habitat. Japanese-born crested ibises that remained on Sado Island went extinct when the last bird died in 2003.
しかし、羽毛を目的とした明治以降の乱獲や、生息環境の悪化で激減した。佐渡島に残った日本生まれのトキは、０３年に最後の１羽が死んで絶滅した。
Since 1999, the Environment Ministry has been artificially breeding the species with crested ibises donated or loaned from China. The ministry also trained them on how to catch prey. About \150 million is spent annually for a project to return crested ibises to the wild.
環境省は１９９９年以降、中国からトキの寄贈や貸与を受けて、人工繁殖に取り組んできた。餌の採り方などの訓練も施した。トキの野生復帰事業には、年約１億５０００万円が投じられている。
Extinct species’ revival hard
This tells how difficult it is to revive a species that once disappeared.
姿を消した生物の復活が、いかに難しいかを物語る。
Cooperation from local residents is essential for returning crested ibises to the wild. The amount of agricultural chemicals used in rice paddies was reduced so that loaches and earthworms − crested ibises’ prey − can grow there, and the paddies are filled with water even in winter.
野生復帰には、住民の協力が欠かせない。トキのえさとなるドジョウやミミズが育つよう、水田での農薬の使用量を減らした。冬にも田に水を張っている。
Thanks to the efforts to have crested ibises coexist with humans, about 150 crested ibises now inhabit the island.
島内に約１５０羽のトキが生息するようになったのは、人と共生するための取り組みの成果だ。
The ministry plans to release more than 30 crested ibises into the wild every year, with the aim of having 220 birds settled in nature in 2020.
環境省は、今後も年３０羽以上を放鳥し、２０年には２２０羽が自然界に定着することを目指す。
There are many challenges in breeding crested ibises in nature. The first “completely wild” crested ibis chick whose birth was confirmed this time was believed to have died soon after birth. The cause of the death is unknown, but the birds have natural enemies such as crows.
自然界での繁殖には試練が多い。今回、誕生が確認された「純野生」の１羽目のひなは、間もなく死んだとみられる。原因は不明だ。カラスなどの天敵もいる。
The ideal structure is for crested ibises born in the wild to increase their numbers on their own in the future by overcoming these difficulties.
こうした困難を乗り越え、将来的には、野生で生まれたトキが自力で個体数を増やしていくのが、理想の姿だろう。
To this end, it is also important to secure genetic diversity among crested ibises.
その実現には、トキの遺伝的多様性を確保することも大切だ。
Crested ibises currently living in Japan have five crested ibises from China as ancestors, and there are many pairs that are cousins. Their ability to resist diseases and their reproductive power could diminish if those in the same consanguineous group repeatedly mate with each other. It is important to have crested ibises continually provided by China.
現在のトキは、いずれも中国からの５羽が先祖で、いとこ同士のペアが多い。血縁同士で交配が進むと、病気への抵抗力や繁殖力が低下する恐れがある。中国から継続的にトキの提供を受けることが重要になる。
China is also making efforts to return crested ibises to the wild. We hope for continued mutual cooperation through crested ibises such as providing China with techniques that Japan has developed to raise the birds.
中国でもトキの野生復活に取り組んでいる。日本が培ってきた飼育技術を提供するなど、トキを通じた相互協力を続けたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 4, 2016)
Cooperation from residents, China key to returning crested ibises to wild
野生トキのひな 人との共生と日中協力が大切
A chick has been born to a pair of wild toki Japanese crested ibises − a species designated as a special natural monument − on Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture. It is the first such delightful news in 40 years. We hope the chick will grow safely.
新潟県の佐渡島で、特別天然記念物トキの野生のつがいから、ひなが誕生した。４０年ぶりの朗報である。ぜひとも無事に育ってほしい。
On Sado Island, artificially raised crested ibises have been released into the wild since 2008. The number of crested ibises that have bred in nature has also increased. The chick hatched this time was born to parents who were born and grew up in nature. It is in the grandchild generation of crested ibises released into the wild.
佐渡島では、人工飼育したトキの放鳥が２００８年から続く。自然の中での繁殖も増えた。今回のひなは、自然界で生まれ育った親鳥の間の子供だ。放鳥されたトキの孫の世代にあたる。
The birth is a major milestone in the return of crested ibises to the wild.
トキの野生復帰に向けた大きな節目と言えよう。
It has been confirmed that there are currently five pairs of wild crested ibises. We probably can expect more crested ibis chicks to be born in the future as well.
現在、５組の野生トキのペアが確認されている。これからも、ひなの誕生が期待できそうだ。
The scientific name for the Japanese crested ibis is Nipponia nippon. One of its characteristics is its rose-pink − called toki color − feathers. The species used to live in a wide area of East Asia and was a familiar wild bird in Japan, too.
トキは「ニッポニア・ニッポン」の学名を持つ。朱鷺とき色と呼ばれる淡紅色の羽が特徴だ。かつては東アジアに広く分布し、国内でも身近な野鳥だった。
However, the number of crested ibises sharply dropped due to overhunting for their feathers in the Meiji era (1868-1912) and afterward as well as the deterioration of their habitat. Japanese-born crested ibises that remained on Sado Island went extinct when the last bird died in 2003.
しかし、羽毛を目的とした明治以降の乱獲や、生息環境の悪化で激減した。佐渡島に残った日本生まれのトキは、０３年に最後の１羽が死んで絶滅した。
Since 1999, the Environment Ministry has been artificially breeding the species with crested ibises donated or loaned from China. The ministry also trained them on how to catch prey. About \150 million is spent annually for a project to return crested ibises to the wild.
環境省は１９９９年以降、中国からトキの寄贈や貸与を受けて、人工繁殖に取り組んできた。餌の採り方などの訓練も施した。トキの野生復帰事業には、年約１億５０００万円が投じられている。
Extinct species’ revival hard
This tells how difficult it is to revive a species that once disappeared.
姿を消した生物の復活が、いかに難しいかを物語る。
Cooperation from local residents is essential for returning crested ibises to the wild. The amount of agricultural chemicals used in rice paddies was reduced so that loaches and earthworms − crested ibises’ prey − can grow there, and the paddies are filled with water even in winter.
野生復帰には、住民の協力が欠かせない。トキのえさとなるドジョウやミミズが育つよう、水田での農薬の使用量を減らした。冬にも田に水を張っている。
Thanks to the efforts to have crested ibises coexist with humans, about 150 crested ibises now inhabit the island.
島内に約１５０羽のトキが生息するようになったのは、人と共生するための取り組みの成果だ。
The ministry plans to release more than 30 crested ibises into the wild every year, with the aim of having 220 birds settled in nature in 2020.
環境省は、今後も年３０羽以上を放鳥し、２０年には２２０羽が自然界に定着することを目指す。
There are many challenges in breeding crested ibises in nature. The first “completely wild” crested ibis chick whose birth was confirmed this time was believed to have died soon after birth. The cause of the death is unknown, but the birds have natural enemies such as crows.
自然界での繁殖には試練が多い。今回、誕生が確認された「純野生」の１羽目のひなは、間もなく死んだとみられる。原因は不明だ。カラスなどの天敵もいる。
The ideal structure is for crested ibises born in the wild to increase their numbers on their own in the future by overcoming these difficulties.
こうした困難を乗り越え、将来的には、野生で生まれたトキが自力で個体数を増やしていくのが、理想の姿だろう。
To this end, it is also important to secure genetic diversity among crested ibises.
その実現には、トキの遺伝的多様性を確保することも大切だ。
Crested ibises currently living in Japan have five crested ibises from China as ancestors, and there are many pairs that are cousins. Their ability to resist diseases and their reproductive power could diminish if those in the same consanguineous group repeatedly mate with each other. It is important to have crested ibises continually provided by China.
現在のトキは、いずれも中国からの５羽が先祖で、いとこ同士のペアが多い。血縁同士で交配が進むと、病気への抵抗力や繁殖力が低下する恐れがある。中国から継続的にトキの提供を受けることが重要になる。
China is also making efforts to return crested ibises to the wild. We hope for continued mutual cooperation through crested ibises such as providing China with techniques that Japan has developed to raise the birds.
中国でもトキの野生復活に取り組んでいる。日本が培ってきた飼育技術を提供するなど、トキを通じた相互協力を続けたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 4, 2016)
2016年05月03日
シリア情勢 停戦維持へ外交努力を強めよ
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Diplomatic efforts must be expedited to maintain truce in war-torn Syria
シリア情勢 停戦維持へ外交努力を強めよ
The ceasefire between Syrian President Bashar Assad’s administration and rebel groups, generally observed by both sides for more than two months, is on the brink of collapse.
シリアのアサド政権と反体制派が２か月余りにわたって、概おおむね順守してきた停戦合意が、崩壊の瀬戸際にある。
Fighting has resumed in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo and elsewhere. Rebel groups are increasingly angered by the government, saying that a number of civilians had been killed by Syrian airstrikes, which they say is a violation of the truce. It is reported that food and medical supplies are not reaching the needed because of obstructive activities.
シリア北部アレッポなどで戦闘が再燃した。反体制派は「シリア軍の空爆で多くの民間人が死亡した。停戦違反だ」と反発を強めている。食料や医療物資の供給も妨害されているという。
The Assad administration has refuted these arguments, saying the bombings were justifiable attacks on terrorist groups such as the Nusra Front not covered by the ceasefire.
政権は、停戦が適用されないテロ組織「ヌスラ戦線」などに対する正当な攻撃だと反論する。
Under the circumstances, the possibility of seeing an end to the five-year civil war could become even more remote. Relevant countries must expedite their diplomatic efforts to mediate between the two parties.
５年に及ぶ内戦の終結がさらに遠のきかねない事態だ。関係国は仲介外交を急がねばならない。
Supported by Russian airstrikes, the Assad administration has a military advantage over the opposition groups. Spurred on by this, the government forcibly held parliamentary elections in Damascus and elsewhere. Assad may have sought to emphasize the ruling party’s overwhelming victory, thereby keeping his administration in place. Given that votes were cast only in government-held parts of the country, however, he cannot gain legitimacy.
アサド政権は、ロシアの空爆支援を受けて軍事的優位に立った。その勢いで首都ダマスカスなどで国会選を強行した。与党圧勝をアピールし、政権を存続させる狙いだろうが、限られた支配地域での投票では正統性は得られまい。
The Assad administration and the rebel groups are to promote peace talks and establish a caretaker government. This is to be followed by a presidential election and other steps to launch a new administration. This is a road map for ending the civil war. The U.N. Security Council also has adopted a resolution calling for the implementation of this process.
アサド政権と反体制派が和平協議を進め、移行政権を樹立する。そのうえで、大統領選などを実施し、新政権を発足させる。これが内戦終結の道筋である。国連安全保障理事会も、この行程表の履行を決議で要求している。
Ceasefire key to weaken ISIL
It is extremely disturbing that the negotiators from both sides have been unable to come up with any compromise regarding calls for Assad’s immediate resignation. In the wake of the renewed fighting, the rebel groups have announced to suspend their participation in the peace talks. We feel they lack the will to end the civil war.
深刻なのは、交渉当事者間でアサド大統領の即時退陣を巡って、妥協点を見いだせないことだ。反体制派は戦闘再燃に伴って、和平協議への参加を停止すると表明した。内戦を終わらせる意志が欠けているのではないか。
The U.N. special envoy for Syria, who presides over the talks, had good reason to urge the United States, Russia and other related nations to hold an urgent ministerial-level meeting.
協議を主宰する国連特使が、米露など関係国に閣僚級緊急会合の開催を呼びかけたのは当然だ。
It is also worrying to note that, after withdrawing some of its airborne units from Syria, Russia has continued its intervention in the country, including the deployment of artillery.
ロシアがシリアから空軍部隊を一部撤収した後、火砲配備などの軍事介入を継続していることも懸念される。
A Russian warplane recently flew dangerously close to a U.S. military aircraft over the Baltic Sea and another Russian plane came extremely close to a U.S. destroyer in the same sea − both incidents only heightening tensions in the area. This will only add to U.S. mistrust of Russia.
露軍機がバルト海で米軍機や米駆逐艦に異常接近し、緊張を高めているのは、米国の不信感を強めるだけである。
It is essential for Russia to exert influence on the Assad administration while the United States does so on the opposition groups, thereby urging the two sides to maintain the ceasefire and make progress in the peace talks.
ロシアはアサド政権に、米国は反体制派に、それぞれ影響力を行使し、停戦維持と和平協議の進展を促すことが肝要だ。
It should not be forgotten that achieving peace in Syria would mark a step toward weakening the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) militant group and overcoming the refugee problem.
シリア和平が過激派組織「イスラム国」の弱体化や難民問題の打開への一歩となることを忘れてはならない。
U.S. President Barack Obama recently decided to send an additional 250 commandos and other U.S. service members to Syria. He also met Saudi Arabia’s King Salman to try to mend soured ties between their countries. These moves should be used to shore up the Syrian rebels in their fight against ISIL, while also facilitating cooperative relations among pertinent nations.
オバマ米大統領は、特殊部隊など米兵２５０人のシリア増派を決めた。サウジアラビアのサルマン国王とも会談し、冷え込んでいた関係の修復に努めた。「イスラム国」と戦う反体制派の強化や関係国の協調につなげたい。
In top-level talks, five nations − the United States, Britain, France, Germany and Italy − have confirmed their coordination in response to acts of terrorism and dealing with the refugee issue. These problems will also be addressed as important themes at the Ise-Shima Group of Seven summit meeting later this month. Japan will be required to demonstrate leadership in this respect.
米英仏独伊の５か国は首脳会談で、テロ対策や難民対応での連携を確認した。今月下旬の主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）で引き続き重要な議題となる。日本の指導力の発揮が求められよう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 2, 2016)
Diplomatic efforts must be expedited to maintain truce in war-torn Syria
シリア情勢 停戦維持へ外交努力を強めよ
The ceasefire between Syrian President Bashar Assad’s administration and rebel groups, generally observed by both sides for more than two months, is on the brink of collapse.
シリアのアサド政権と反体制派が２か月余りにわたって、概おおむね順守してきた停戦合意が、崩壊の瀬戸際にある。
Fighting has resumed in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo and elsewhere. Rebel groups are increasingly angered by the government, saying that a number of civilians had been killed by Syrian airstrikes, which they say is a violation of the truce. It is reported that food and medical supplies are not reaching the needed because of obstructive activities.
シリア北部アレッポなどで戦闘が再燃した。反体制派は「シリア軍の空爆で多くの民間人が死亡した。停戦違反だ」と反発を強めている。食料や医療物資の供給も妨害されているという。
The Assad administration has refuted these arguments, saying the bombings were justifiable attacks on terrorist groups such as the Nusra Front not covered by the ceasefire.
政権は、停戦が適用されないテロ組織「ヌスラ戦線」などに対する正当な攻撃だと反論する。
Under the circumstances, the possibility of seeing an end to the five-year civil war could become even more remote. Relevant countries must expedite their diplomatic efforts to mediate between the two parties.
５年に及ぶ内戦の終結がさらに遠のきかねない事態だ。関係国は仲介外交を急がねばならない。
Supported by Russian airstrikes, the Assad administration has a military advantage over the opposition groups. Spurred on by this, the government forcibly held parliamentary elections in Damascus and elsewhere. Assad may have sought to emphasize the ruling party’s overwhelming victory, thereby keeping his administration in place. Given that votes were cast only in government-held parts of the country, however, he cannot gain legitimacy.
アサド政権は、ロシアの空爆支援を受けて軍事的優位に立った。その勢いで首都ダマスカスなどで国会選を強行した。与党圧勝をアピールし、政権を存続させる狙いだろうが、限られた支配地域での投票では正統性は得られまい。
The Assad administration and the rebel groups are to promote peace talks and establish a caretaker government. This is to be followed by a presidential election and other steps to launch a new administration. This is a road map for ending the civil war. The U.N. Security Council also has adopted a resolution calling for the implementation of this process.
アサド政権と反体制派が和平協議を進め、移行政権を樹立する。そのうえで、大統領選などを実施し、新政権を発足させる。これが内戦終結の道筋である。国連安全保障理事会も、この行程表の履行を決議で要求している。
Ceasefire key to weaken ISIL
It is extremely disturbing that the negotiators from both sides have been unable to come up with any compromise regarding calls for Assad’s immediate resignation. In the wake of the renewed fighting, the rebel groups have announced to suspend their participation in the peace talks. We feel they lack the will to end the civil war.
深刻なのは、交渉当事者間でアサド大統領の即時退陣を巡って、妥協点を見いだせないことだ。反体制派は戦闘再燃に伴って、和平協議への参加を停止すると表明した。内戦を終わらせる意志が欠けているのではないか。
The U.N. special envoy for Syria, who presides over the talks, had good reason to urge the United States, Russia and other related nations to hold an urgent ministerial-level meeting.
協議を主宰する国連特使が、米露など関係国に閣僚級緊急会合の開催を呼びかけたのは当然だ。
It is also worrying to note that, after withdrawing some of its airborne units from Syria, Russia has continued its intervention in the country, including the deployment of artillery.
ロシアがシリアから空軍部隊を一部撤収した後、火砲配備などの軍事介入を継続していることも懸念される。
A Russian warplane recently flew dangerously close to a U.S. military aircraft over the Baltic Sea and another Russian plane came extremely close to a U.S. destroyer in the same sea − both incidents only heightening tensions in the area. This will only add to U.S. mistrust of Russia.
露軍機がバルト海で米軍機や米駆逐艦に異常接近し、緊張を高めているのは、米国の不信感を強めるだけである。
It is essential for Russia to exert influence on the Assad administration while the United States does so on the opposition groups, thereby urging the two sides to maintain the ceasefire and make progress in the peace talks.
ロシアはアサド政権に、米国は反体制派に、それぞれ影響力を行使し、停戦維持と和平協議の進展を促すことが肝要だ。
It should not be forgotten that achieving peace in Syria would mark a step toward weakening the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) militant group and overcoming the refugee problem.
シリア和平が過激派組織「イスラム国」の弱体化や難民問題の打開への一歩となることを忘れてはならない。
U.S. President Barack Obama recently decided to send an additional 250 commandos and other U.S. service members to Syria. He also met Saudi Arabia’s King Salman to try to mend soured ties between their countries. These moves should be used to shore up the Syrian rebels in their fight against ISIL, while also facilitating cooperative relations among pertinent nations.
オバマ米大統領は、特殊部隊など米兵２５０人のシリア増派を決めた。サウジアラビアのサルマン国王とも会談し、冷え込んでいた関係の修復に努めた。「イスラム国」と戦う反体制派の強化や関係国の協調につなげたい。
In top-level talks, five nations − the United States, Britain, France, Germany and Italy − have confirmed their coordination in response to acts of terrorism and dealing with the refugee issue. These problems will also be addressed as important themes at the Ise-Shima Group of Seven summit meeting later this month. Japan will be required to demonstrate leadership in this respect.
米英仏独伊の５か国は首脳会談で、テロ対策や難民対応での連携を確認した。今月下旬の主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）で引き続き重要な議題となる。日本の指導力の発揮が求められよう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 2, 2016)
2016年05月02日
日中外相会談 関係停滞の主因は習政権では
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Is Xi’s administration not responsible for strains in Japan-China relations?
日中外相会談 関係停滞の主因は習政権では
Can the latest talks between the Japanese and Chinese foreign ministers serve as the first step in improving bilateral relations?
日中関係を改善する一歩となるのだろうか。
Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida met with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, on Saturday during a visit to China. The top diplomats confirmed that the two countries are “partners for cooperation,” while also agreeing that they will make efforts to move bilateral ties forward.
岸田外相が中国を訪問し、王毅外相と会談した。両国が「協力のパートナー」であることを確認し、両国関係の前進に向けて双方が努力することで一致した。
Kishida’s visit to China is the first by a Japanese foreign minister in 4½ years for an event other than an international conference. Saturday’s talks lasted for about four hours and 20 minutes, including a luncheon.
国際会議出席以外で、日本の外相が訪中したのは４年半ぶりだ。会談は、昼食会も含め、計約４時間２０分にも及んだ。
We welcome the resumption of top-level talks − which had not been held for an extended period − between the two countries and the exchange of candid views on various issues.
長く途絶えていた本格的な政治対話を再開し、様々な議題について率直に意見交換したこと自体は評価できる。
Kishida also met with Premier Li Keqiang, who referred to Japan-China relations by saying, “I hope that we will work together to get them back on the right track once again.”
岸田氏は李克強首相とも会談した。李氏は、日中関係について「もう一度、正常な軌道に戻れるように、共に取り組むことを望んでいる」と語った。
Japan aims to host trilateral summit meetings of the leaders and foreign ministers from Japan, China and South Korea in the latter half of this year. Tokyo has improved its relations with Seoul by reaching a deal on the issue of so-called comfort women, but Chinese President Xi Jinping’s administration is reportedly reluctant to hold the summit.
日本は今年後半、日中韓３か国の首脳・外相会談を主催したい考えだ。慰安婦問題の合意で日韓関係は改善したが、中国の習近平政権は開催に消極的とされる。
Japan and China should make steady efforts to coordinate the schedule for the summit, in addition to the schedule for high-level economic dialogue between ministers of the two countries after they agreed in November last year to hold such talks at the earliest possible date.
昨年１１月に早期開催で合意した閣僚級の日中ハイレベル経済対話とともに、両国で日程調整を着実に進める必要がある。
Off the mark
Wang’s comments on Japan-China relations, however, were questionable. “The China-Japan relationship has suffered various setbacks, falling to a low ebb,” he said. “The Japanese side knows clear[ly] the reason behind that.”
His remarks suggested that only Japan should be blamed for the stagnated ties.
疑問なのは、王氏が日中関係に関して「絶えずギクシャクし、たびたび谷間に陥ったが、原因は日本側が一番よく分かっているのではないか」と述べたことだ。関係停滞の責任が一方的に日本側にあるかのような主張である。
Wang made the remarks apparently with an eye on the statement issued at the recent meeting by the foreign ministers from the Group of Seven major powers, in which they implicitly called for China to refrain from building military bases in the South China Sea, even though they did not name the country.
日米など先進７か国（Ｇ７）が４月の外相会合で、名指しは避けつつ、中国の南シナ海での軍事拠点作りに反対する声明を発表したことも念頭にあるようだ。
However, it is China that has been forcibly building artificial islands by ignoring international law, thus causing tensions with countries concerned. We consider Wang’s remarks to be off the mark.
しかし、国際法を無視した人工島造成を強行し、関係国との緊張を作り出しているのは、中国の方だ。王氏の発言は筋が違う。
Wang also said, “Japan should stop spreading or echoing all kinds of ‘China threat’ or ‘China economic recession’ theories.” This remark should be described as nothing but unproductive defamation.
王氏は「『中国脅威論』と『中国経済衰退論』をまき散らすべきではない」とも語った。非生産的な中傷と言うほかない。
Kishida expressed concerns over Beijing’s activity in the East and South China seas. It is important for Japan to patiently continue calling for China to restrain its self-serving maritime advances and abide by international rules.
岸田氏は、東・南シナ海での中国の行動に懸念を伝えた。日本は今後も、中国に対し、独善的な海洋進出の自制や国際法の順守を粘り強く求めることが重要だ。
Japan and China have a leading role in promoting peace and prosperity in the world. Even though they have opposing opinions, the two countries should build constructive ties from a broad standpoint of a mutually beneficial relationship.
日中両国は、世界の平和と繁栄を牽引けんいんすべき立場にある。意見対立があっても、「戦略的互恵」の大局に立ち、建設的な関係を構築せねばならない。
Kishida and Wang expressed “serious concerns” over North Korea, as it has continued ballistic missile launches and other military provocations. The two ministers also confirmed that their countries would cooperate to strictly enforce the U.N. Security Council’s sanctions resolution against Pyongyang.
弾道ミサイル発射など軍事挑発を続ける北朝鮮について、両外相は「深刻な懸念」を表明した。国連安全保障理事会の制裁決議を厳格に履行する方針も確認した。
China holds the key to the amount of pressure that can be applied to North Korea. Japan should work closely with the United States and South Korea to call for Beijing to take productive action against Pyongyang.
北朝鮮への圧力を強めるには、中国の対応がカギを握る。日本は米韓両国と緊密に連携し、中国に前向きな対応を促すべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 1, 2016)
Is Xi’s administration not responsible for strains in Japan-China relations?
日中外相会談 関係停滞の主因は習政権では
Can the latest talks between the Japanese and Chinese foreign ministers serve as the first step in improving bilateral relations?
日中関係を改善する一歩となるのだろうか。
Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida met with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, on Saturday during a visit to China. The top diplomats confirmed that the two countries are “partners for cooperation,” while also agreeing that they will make efforts to move bilateral ties forward.
岸田外相が中国を訪問し、王毅外相と会談した。両国が「協力のパートナー」であることを確認し、両国関係の前進に向けて双方が努力することで一致した。
Kishida’s visit to China is the first by a Japanese foreign minister in 4½ years for an event other than an international conference. Saturday’s talks lasted for about four hours and 20 minutes, including a luncheon.
国際会議出席以外で、日本の外相が訪中したのは４年半ぶりだ。会談は、昼食会も含め、計約４時間２０分にも及んだ。
We welcome the resumption of top-level talks − which had not been held for an extended period − between the two countries and the exchange of candid views on various issues.
長く途絶えていた本格的な政治対話を再開し、様々な議題について率直に意見交換したこと自体は評価できる。
Kishida also met with Premier Li Keqiang, who referred to Japan-China relations by saying, “I hope that we will work together to get them back on the right track once again.”
岸田氏は李克強首相とも会談した。李氏は、日中関係について「もう一度、正常な軌道に戻れるように、共に取り組むことを望んでいる」と語った。
Japan aims to host trilateral summit meetings of the leaders and foreign ministers from Japan, China and South Korea in the latter half of this year. Tokyo has improved its relations with Seoul by reaching a deal on the issue of so-called comfort women, but Chinese President Xi Jinping’s administration is reportedly reluctant to hold the summit.
日本は今年後半、日中韓３か国の首脳・外相会談を主催したい考えだ。慰安婦問題の合意で日韓関係は改善したが、中国の習近平政権は開催に消極的とされる。
Japan and China should make steady efforts to coordinate the schedule for the summit, in addition to the schedule for high-level economic dialogue between ministers of the two countries after they agreed in November last year to hold such talks at the earliest possible date.
昨年１１月に早期開催で合意した閣僚級の日中ハイレベル経済対話とともに、両国で日程調整を着実に進める必要がある。
Off the mark
Wang’s comments on Japan-China relations, however, were questionable. “The China-Japan relationship has suffered various setbacks, falling to a low ebb,” he said. “The Japanese side knows clear[ly] the reason behind that.”
His remarks suggested that only Japan should be blamed for the stagnated ties.
疑問なのは、王氏が日中関係に関して「絶えずギクシャクし、たびたび谷間に陥ったが、原因は日本側が一番よく分かっているのではないか」と述べたことだ。関係停滞の責任が一方的に日本側にあるかのような主張である。
Wang made the remarks apparently with an eye on the statement issued at the recent meeting by the foreign ministers from the Group of Seven major powers, in which they implicitly called for China to refrain from building military bases in the South China Sea, even though they did not name the country.
日米など先進７か国（Ｇ７）が４月の外相会合で、名指しは避けつつ、中国の南シナ海での軍事拠点作りに反対する声明を発表したことも念頭にあるようだ。
However, it is China that has been forcibly building artificial islands by ignoring international law, thus causing tensions with countries concerned. We consider Wang’s remarks to be off the mark.
しかし、国際法を無視した人工島造成を強行し、関係国との緊張を作り出しているのは、中国の方だ。王氏の発言は筋が違う。
Wang also said, “Japan should stop spreading or echoing all kinds of ‘China threat’ or ‘China economic recession’ theories.” This remark should be described as nothing but unproductive defamation.
王氏は「『中国脅威論』と『中国経済衰退論』をまき散らすべきではない」とも語った。非生産的な中傷と言うほかない。
Kishida expressed concerns over Beijing’s activity in the East and South China seas. It is important for Japan to patiently continue calling for China to restrain its self-serving maritime advances and abide by international rules.
岸田氏は、東・南シナ海での中国の行動に懸念を伝えた。日本は今後も、中国に対し、独善的な海洋進出の自制や国際法の順守を粘り強く求めることが重要だ。
Japan and China have a leading role in promoting peace and prosperity in the world. Even though they have opposing opinions, the two countries should build constructive ties from a broad standpoint of a mutually beneficial relationship.
日中両国は、世界の平和と繁栄を牽引けんいんすべき立場にある。意見対立があっても、「戦略的互恵」の大局に立ち、建設的な関係を構築せねばならない。
Kishida and Wang expressed “serious concerns” over North Korea, as it has continued ballistic missile launches and other military provocations. The two ministers also confirmed that their countries would cooperate to strictly enforce the U.N. Security Council’s sanctions resolution against Pyongyang.
弾道ミサイル発射など軍事挑発を続ける北朝鮮について、両外相は「深刻な懸念」を表明した。国連安全保障理事会の制裁決議を厳格に履行する方針も確認した。
China holds the key to the amount of pressure that can be applied to North Korea. Japan should work closely with the United States and South Korea to call for Beijing to take productive action against Pyongyang.
北朝鮮への圧力を強めるには、中国の対応がカギを握る。日本は米韓両国と緊密に連携し、中国に前向きな対応を促すべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 1, 2016)
2016年04月29日
豪潜水艦に落選 装備輸出の司令塔作りを急げ
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Control tower urgently needed for export of defense equipment
豪潜水艦に落選 装備輸出の司令塔作りを急げ
It is important to scrupulously examine the reason Japan lost its bid for the contract and rebuild the government’s preparedness for exporting defense equipment.
失敗の原因をきちんと検証し、防衛装備品を輸出する政府の態勢を立て直すことが肝要だ。
With Japan, Germany and France competing to build next-generation submarines for Australia, Canberra selected a French company as its partner.
豪州が、日独仏３か国が参画を目指した次期潜水艦計画で、フランス企業との共同開発を選択した。
In accordance with the three principles on the transfer of defense equipment and technology, the Japanese government, jointly with the private sector, had proposed building a fleet based on the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s most advanced Soryu-class submarine, manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. and other companies.
日本は、防衛装備移転３原則に基づき、三菱重工業などが建造する海上自衛隊の最新鋭潜水艦「そうりゅう型」を官民合同で提案したが、受注を逃した。
Soryu-class submarines are equipped with the world’s most advanced technology. They excel in cruising capability, silent running to evade detection when navigating underwater, sonar detection and other attributes.
そうりゅう型の技術は世界最高水準とされる。航続性能や、敵に気づかれずに潜行する静粛性、水中音波探知機能などに優れる。
The huge contract, worth about 50 billion Australian dollars (\4.3 trillion), was for the construction of 12 submarines. It would have become Japan’s first full-fledged export of defense equipment. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said, “It was a disappointing result.”
１２隻で総事業費約５００億豪ドル（４兆３０００億円）の大型案件で、実現すれば、日本初の本格的な装備品輸出となった。安倍首相は「残念な結果だ」と語った。
It is reasonable for Defense Minister Gen Nakatani to have indicated his intention to seek an explanation from Australia as to why Japan was not awarded the contract and learn lessons for future bids.
中谷防衛相が、豪州に選定理由の説明を求め、今後の教訓とする考えを示したのは当然である。
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said, “The French offer represented the capabilities best able to meet Australia’s unique needs.”
ターンブル豪首相は、「フランスの提案が、豪州特有の要求に最も合致した」と述べた。
As Australia’s economy has slowed, uncertainty over the country’s employment situation is spreading. France had emphasized it would make a full-scale technology transfer, help foster Australian companies and create jobs in that country.
豪州で景気の減速により雇用不安が広がる中、フランスは全面的な技術移転や、豪州企業の育成、積極的な雇用を訴えていた。
As Turnbull intends to dissolve Parliament shortly, his selection may also reflect his decision to focus on the economy with the election in mind.
ターンブル氏は近く議会を解散する意向で、選挙をにらんだ経済重視の判断もあったのだろう。
But for building submarines, a military perspective is important under normal circumstances. We cannot agree with the choice if it was made by placing priority on the political situation.
だが、本来、潜水艦建造は軍事の観点が重要だ。政局を優先したのなら、うなずけない。
Experience lacking
Meanwhile, it is undeniable that Japan, while being overconfident in its high level of technology and paying little heed to its ratio of local production in Australia, failed to accurately comprehend either Australia’s needs or the moves taken by France and Germany in their bids, and did not exercise flexibility in taking the measures needed. This failure may have stemmed from the little experience MHI and other companies have in negotiating defense equipment deals with foreign countries.
日本も、自らの技術の高さを過信し、現地生産の割合を低く抑えたまま、豪州のニーズや仏独の動きを的確に把握せず、柔軟に対策を講じなかったのは否めない。三菱重工業などに装備品輸出交渉の経験が乏しかったためだろう。
It is crucial to build within such offices as the national security secretariat of the Cabinet Secretariat a framework to comprehensively analyze and assess business chances and domestic political circumstances of countries concerned, in addition to security issues, and establish a control tower to carry out such tasks.
内閣官房の国家安全保障局などに、安全保障に加え、ビジネスや各国の内政事情などを総合的に分析・判断する枠組みと、その司令塔を構築することが急務だ。
Sufficient manpower should be mustered from such economy-related ministries as the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry as well as from private companies. Also needed is to have a vision on implementing a growth strategy.
経済産業省などの経済官庁や、民間企業からも人材を集める必要がある。成長戦略の視点を持つことも欠かせない。
Needless to say, measures to prevent the leakage of technologies to third-party countries are essential. We can understand that cautious views were expressed within the MSDF and other entities over Japan’s provision of technology to Australia.
無論、第三国への技術流出防止策は徹底すべきだ。今回、海自などに豪州への技術供与に慎重論があったことは理解できる。
Also worrisome is that China is said to have urged Australia not to accept Japan’s proposal this time. If Canberra turned down Japan’s bid by giving too much consideration to Beijing, we cannot overlook it.
気がかりなのは、中国が今回、日本案の不採用を豪州に働きかけていたとされることだ。豪州が中国に過剰に配慮し、日本案を退けたのであれば、見過ごせない。
Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott had recognized the importance of security cooperation among Japan, the United States and Australia. The Turnbull administration should explain what sort of role it will assume for the stability of the Asia-Pacific region.
アボット前首相は、日米豪の安保協力の重要性を認識していた。ターンブル政権は、アジア・太平洋地域の安定にどんな役割を果たすのか、説明せねばならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 28, 2016)
Control tower urgently needed for export of defense equipment
豪潜水艦に落選 装備輸出の司令塔作りを急げ
It is important to scrupulously examine the reason Japan lost its bid for the contract and rebuild the government’s preparedness for exporting defense equipment.
失敗の原因をきちんと検証し、防衛装備品を輸出する政府の態勢を立て直すことが肝要だ。
With Japan, Germany and France competing to build next-generation submarines for Australia, Canberra selected a French company as its partner.
豪州が、日独仏３か国が参画を目指した次期潜水艦計画で、フランス企業との共同開発を選択した。
In accordance with the three principles on the transfer of defense equipment and technology, the Japanese government, jointly with the private sector, had proposed building a fleet based on the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s most advanced Soryu-class submarine, manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. and other companies.
日本は、防衛装備移転３原則に基づき、三菱重工業などが建造する海上自衛隊の最新鋭潜水艦「そうりゅう型」を官民合同で提案したが、受注を逃した。
Soryu-class submarines are equipped with the world’s most advanced technology. They excel in cruising capability, silent running to evade detection when navigating underwater, sonar detection and other attributes.
そうりゅう型の技術は世界最高水準とされる。航続性能や、敵に気づかれずに潜行する静粛性、水中音波探知機能などに優れる。
The huge contract, worth about 50 billion Australian dollars (\4.3 trillion), was for the construction of 12 submarines. It would have become Japan’s first full-fledged export of defense equipment. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said, “It was a disappointing result.”
１２隻で総事業費約５００億豪ドル（４兆３０００億円）の大型案件で、実現すれば、日本初の本格的な装備品輸出となった。安倍首相は「残念な結果だ」と語った。
It is reasonable for Defense Minister Gen Nakatani to have indicated his intention to seek an explanation from Australia as to why Japan was not awarded the contract and learn lessons for future bids.
中谷防衛相が、豪州に選定理由の説明を求め、今後の教訓とする考えを示したのは当然である。
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said, “The French offer represented the capabilities best able to meet Australia’s unique needs.”
ターンブル豪首相は、「フランスの提案が、豪州特有の要求に最も合致した」と述べた。
As Australia’s economy has slowed, uncertainty over the country’s employment situation is spreading. France had emphasized it would make a full-scale technology transfer, help foster Australian companies and create jobs in that country.
豪州で景気の減速により雇用不安が広がる中、フランスは全面的な技術移転や、豪州企業の育成、積極的な雇用を訴えていた。
As Turnbull intends to dissolve Parliament shortly, his selection may also reflect his decision to focus on the economy with the election in mind.
ターンブル氏は近く議会を解散する意向で、選挙をにらんだ経済重視の判断もあったのだろう。
But for building submarines, a military perspective is important under normal circumstances. We cannot agree with the choice if it was made by placing priority on the political situation.
だが、本来、潜水艦建造は軍事の観点が重要だ。政局を優先したのなら、うなずけない。
Experience lacking
Meanwhile, it is undeniable that Japan, while being overconfident in its high level of technology and paying little heed to its ratio of local production in Australia, failed to accurately comprehend either Australia’s needs or the moves taken by France and Germany in their bids, and did not exercise flexibility in taking the measures needed. This failure may have stemmed from the little experience MHI and other companies have in negotiating defense equipment deals with foreign countries.
日本も、自らの技術の高さを過信し、現地生産の割合を低く抑えたまま、豪州のニーズや仏独の動きを的確に把握せず、柔軟に対策を講じなかったのは否めない。三菱重工業などに装備品輸出交渉の経験が乏しかったためだろう。
It is crucial to build within such offices as the national security secretariat of the Cabinet Secretariat a framework to comprehensively analyze and assess business chances and domestic political circumstances of countries concerned, in addition to security issues, and establish a control tower to carry out such tasks.
内閣官房の国家安全保障局などに、安全保障に加え、ビジネスや各国の内政事情などを総合的に分析・判断する枠組みと、その司令塔を構築することが急務だ。
Sufficient manpower should be mustered from such economy-related ministries as the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry as well as from private companies. Also needed is to have a vision on implementing a growth strategy.
経済産業省などの経済官庁や、民間企業からも人材を集める必要がある。成長戦略の視点を持つことも欠かせない。
Needless to say, measures to prevent the leakage of technologies to third-party countries are essential. We can understand that cautious views were expressed within the MSDF and other entities over Japan’s provision of technology to Australia.
無論、第三国への技術流出防止策は徹底すべきだ。今回、海自などに豪州への技術供与に慎重論があったことは理解できる。
Also worrisome is that China is said to have urged Australia not to accept Japan’s proposal this time. If Canberra turned down Japan’s bid by giving too much consideration to Beijing, we cannot overlook it.
気がかりなのは、中国が今回、日本案の不採用を豪州に働きかけていたとされることだ。豪州が中国に過剰に配慮し、日本案を退けたのであれば、見過ごせない。
Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott had recognized the importance of security cooperation among Japan, the United States and Australia. The Turnbull administration should explain what sort of role it will assume for the stability of the Asia-Pacific region.
アボット前首相は、日米豪の安保協力の重要性を認識していた。ターンブル政権は、アジア・太平洋地域の安定にどんな役割を果たすのか、説明せねばならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 28, 2016)
2016年04月24日
自衛隊熊本支援 オスプレイの活用は効果的だ
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Osprey aircraft prove valuable in earthquake relief operations
自衛隊熊本支援 オスプレイの活用は効果的だ
The Self-Defense Forces have mobilized more than 20,000 personnel to carry out rescue and relief operations for victims of the Kumamoto Earthquake.
熊本地震で、自衛隊が２万人以上を動員し、被災者の救助・支援活動を展開している。
The operations are difficult, and rescuers face dangers from secondary disasters such as aftershocks and landslides caused by heavy rains. But we know they will make their utmost efforts as they engage in the operations.
余震や大雨による土砂崩れなど二次災害の危険が伴う困難な任務だが、全力で取り組んでもらいたい。
The Defense Ministry has set up a joint task force of the Air, Ground and Maritime Self-Defense Forces. The task force is based at the GSDF’s Western Army Headquarters in Kumamoto. About 120 aircraft, mainly helicopters, and 10 transport and other vessels have been dispatched to the task force.
防衛省は、陸海空３自衛隊の統合部隊を編成した。熊本市の陸自西部方面総監部に司令部を置き、ヘリコプターなど約１２０機、輸送艦など約１０隻も派遣した。
The SDF personnel engage in such activities as searching for missing people, transporting the sick and injured and providing meals and water. SDF personnel are transporting food and daily necessities directly to evacuation centers and other locations to cover the lack of manpower at local governments.
不明者の捜索や、患者の輸送、給食・給水などに従事している。食料や生活物資の輸送では、被災自治体の要員不足を補うため、避難所などへの直接搬送も担う。
The SDF is a self-sustaining organization, providing its own food, clothing and shelter. Due to lessons learned from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, the SDF has enhanced telecommunication and other equipment and strengthened cooperation with local governments through disaster-response drills.
自衛隊は、衣食住を自力で賄える自己完結型組織だ。東日本大震災の教訓を踏まえ、通信機器などを充実させ、防災訓練を通じて自治体との連携も強化してきた。
In the wake of the latest disaster, the SDF dispatched liaison personnel to relevant local governments, including the Kumamoto and Oita prefectural governments, and this action has facilitated the relief operation. To prevent duplication of efforts with local governments and police, proper sharing of tasks is crucial.
今回、熊本、大分両県など関係自治体に連絡調整要員を派遣したことで、支援活動を円滑にしている。自治体や警察などとの業務の重複を避けるためには、適切な役割分担が欠かせない。
U.S. cooperation appreciated
We would like to acknowledge the unreserved cooperation of U.S. forces, which follows Operation Tomodachi in the wake of the 2011 Tohoku disaster.
東日本大震災時の「トモダチ作戦」に続き、米軍が全面的に協力していることに感謝したい。
Based on the Japan-U.S. Defense Cooperation Guidelines − which were renewed in April last year − the SDF and the U.S. forces have set up a joint coordination center at the SDF’s task headquarters. The coordination center is now serving as the control tower of rescue operations.
昨年４月策定の新たな日米防衛協力指針（ガイドライン）に基づき、統合部隊司令部に設置された自衛隊と在日米軍の共同調整所が司令塔となっている。
The U.S. forces dispatched four Osprey transport aircraft belonging to Futenma Air Station. The Ospreys shuttled back and forth to carry drinking water, food, blankets, portable toilets and other supplies to Kumamoto Prefecture’s Minami-Aso, a village isolated due to the collapse of a national highway, playing a very important role in sustaining the daily lives of many evacuees.
米軍は、普天間飛行場所属の輸送機オスプレイ４機を投入した。国道の崩落で孤立した熊本県南阿蘇村に飲料水・食料、毛布、簡易トイレなどをピストン輸送し、多くの被災者の生活を維持するうえで、重要な役割を果たした。
Compared to conventional transport helicopters, the Osprey has great superiority in its maximum speed, payload and range. Also, it has been pointed out that the Osprey’s ability to operate in mountainous areas because of its ability to take off and land vertically makes it useful for disaster response.
オスプレイは、従来の輸送ヘリより最大速度、搭載量、航続距離のいずれも大幅に優れている。垂直離着陸の機能を有し、山間部でも対応可能なため、かねて災害派遣に有効と指摘されていた。
The opposition parties have criticized the use of Ospreys in relief operations − an act totally incomprehensible. Saying there are concerns over the safety of the aircraft, former Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Kazuhiro Haraguchi of the Democratic Party (Minshinto) said: “People who are taking refuge are worried. We thank the U.S. Forces for their cooperation, but we want them to stop.”
理解できないのは、野党内に、オスプレイ活用に批判があることだ。民進党の原口一博・元総務相は安全性に懸念があるとして「避難している皆さんも不安に思っている。米軍の協力はありがたいが、やめてほしい」と発言した。
However, the risk of serious accidents involving the Osprey is lower than that of other U.S. military aircraft. It has a successful track record in relief operations after a typhoon in the Philippines and the recent earthquake in Nepal. If Ospreys had not been used for the latest earthquake, provision of supplies could have been stalled, creating greater anxiety for the disaster victims.
だが、他の米軍機に比べても重大事故率は低く、フィリピンの大型台風やネパール地震で支援実績もある。活用しなければ、物資供給が滞り、被災者のより大きな不安を招いたのではないか。
The Ground Self-Defense Force plans to introduce 17 Ospreys by fiscal 2018 to be based in Saga Airport. The conjecture that the use of Ospreys in the Kumamoto relief operation may have been an effort to smooth the way for the Saga deployment should be rejected.
陸自も２０１８年度までに、オスプレイ１７機を導入する予定で、佐賀空港への配備を目指す。その受け入れの地ならしではないかとの臆測も否定しておきたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 23, 2016)
Osprey aircraft prove valuable in earthquake relief operations
自衛隊熊本支援 オスプレイの活用は効果的だ
The Self-Defense Forces have mobilized more than 20,000 personnel to carry out rescue and relief operations for victims of the Kumamoto Earthquake.
熊本地震で、自衛隊が２万人以上を動員し、被災者の救助・支援活動を展開している。
The operations are difficult, and rescuers face dangers from secondary disasters such as aftershocks and landslides caused by heavy rains. But we know they will make their utmost efforts as they engage in the operations.
余震や大雨による土砂崩れなど二次災害の危険が伴う困難な任務だが、全力で取り組んでもらいたい。
The Defense Ministry has set up a joint task force of the Air, Ground and Maritime Self-Defense Forces. The task force is based at the GSDF’s Western Army Headquarters in Kumamoto. About 120 aircraft, mainly helicopters, and 10 transport and other vessels have been dispatched to the task force.
防衛省は、陸海空３自衛隊の統合部隊を編成した。熊本市の陸自西部方面総監部に司令部を置き、ヘリコプターなど約１２０機、輸送艦など約１０隻も派遣した。
The SDF personnel engage in such activities as searching for missing people, transporting the sick and injured and providing meals and water. SDF personnel are transporting food and daily necessities directly to evacuation centers and other locations to cover the lack of manpower at local governments.
不明者の捜索や、患者の輸送、給食・給水などに従事している。食料や生活物資の輸送では、被災自治体の要員不足を補うため、避難所などへの直接搬送も担う。
The SDF is a self-sustaining organization, providing its own food, clothing and shelter. Due to lessons learned from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, the SDF has enhanced telecommunication and other equipment and strengthened cooperation with local governments through disaster-response drills.
自衛隊は、衣食住を自力で賄える自己完結型組織だ。東日本大震災の教訓を踏まえ、通信機器などを充実させ、防災訓練を通じて自治体との連携も強化してきた。
In the wake of the latest disaster, the SDF dispatched liaison personnel to relevant local governments, including the Kumamoto and Oita prefectural governments, and this action has facilitated the relief operation. To prevent duplication of efforts with local governments and police, proper sharing of tasks is crucial.
今回、熊本、大分両県など関係自治体に連絡調整要員を派遣したことで、支援活動を円滑にしている。自治体や警察などとの業務の重複を避けるためには、適切な役割分担が欠かせない。
U.S. cooperation appreciated
We would like to acknowledge the unreserved cooperation of U.S. forces, which follows Operation Tomodachi in the wake of the 2011 Tohoku disaster.
東日本大震災時の「トモダチ作戦」に続き、米軍が全面的に協力していることに感謝したい。
Based on the Japan-U.S. Defense Cooperation Guidelines − which were renewed in April last year − the SDF and the U.S. forces have set up a joint coordination center at the SDF’s task headquarters. The coordination center is now serving as the control tower of rescue operations.
昨年４月策定の新たな日米防衛協力指針（ガイドライン）に基づき、統合部隊司令部に設置された自衛隊と在日米軍の共同調整所が司令塔となっている。
The U.S. forces dispatched four Osprey transport aircraft belonging to Futenma Air Station. The Ospreys shuttled back and forth to carry drinking water, food, blankets, portable toilets and other supplies to Kumamoto Prefecture’s Minami-Aso, a village isolated due to the collapse of a national highway, playing a very important role in sustaining the daily lives of many evacuees.
米軍は、普天間飛行場所属の輸送機オスプレイ４機を投入した。国道の崩落で孤立した熊本県南阿蘇村に飲料水・食料、毛布、簡易トイレなどをピストン輸送し、多くの被災者の生活を維持するうえで、重要な役割を果たした。
Compared to conventional transport helicopters, the Osprey has great superiority in its maximum speed, payload and range. Also, it has been pointed out that the Osprey’s ability to operate in mountainous areas because of its ability to take off and land vertically makes it useful for disaster response.
オスプレイは、従来の輸送ヘリより最大速度、搭載量、航続距離のいずれも大幅に優れている。垂直離着陸の機能を有し、山間部でも対応可能なため、かねて災害派遣に有効と指摘されていた。
The opposition parties have criticized the use of Ospreys in relief operations − an act totally incomprehensible. Saying there are concerns over the safety of the aircraft, former Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Kazuhiro Haraguchi of the Democratic Party (Minshinto) said: “People who are taking refuge are worried. We thank the U.S. Forces for their cooperation, but we want them to stop.”
理解できないのは、野党内に、オスプレイ活用に批判があることだ。民進党の原口一博・元総務相は安全性に懸念があるとして「避難している皆さんも不安に思っている。米軍の協力はありがたいが、やめてほしい」と発言した。
However, the risk of serious accidents involving the Osprey is lower than that of other U.S. military aircraft. It has a successful track record in relief operations after a typhoon in the Philippines and the recent earthquake in Nepal. If Ospreys had not been used for the latest earthquake, provision of supplies could have been stalled, creating greater anxiety for the disaster victims.
だが、他の米軍機に比べても重大事故率は低く、フィリピンの大型台風やネパール地震で支援実績もある。活用しなければ、物資供給が滞り、被災者のより大きな不安を招いたのではないか。
The Ground Self-Defense Force plans to introduce 17 Ospreys by fiscal 2018 to be based in Saga Airport. The conjecture that the use of Ospreys in the Kumamoto relief operation may have been an effort to smooth the way for the Saga deployment should be rejected.
陸自も２０１８年度までに、オスプレイ１７機を導入する予定で、佐賀空港への配備を目指す。その受け入れの地ならしではないかとの臆測も否定しておきたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 23, 2016)
2016年04月23日
戦没者遺骨収集 遺族の思いを汲んで速やかに
The Yomiuri Shimbun
As families wait, expedite efforts to retrieve remains of war dead
戦没者遺骨収集 遺族の思いを汲んで速やかに
Seventy years have passed since World War II ended, and the families of Japan’s war dead are growing older. Efforts to find and retrieve remains of those who died in countries far from home must be accelerated.
終戦から７０年を経て、戦没者の遺族の高齢化が進む。異郷の地で死亡した戦没者の遺骨収集を急ぎたい。
This month, a law to promote collection of the remains of the war dead came into force. The law’s main points are that it clearly positions retrieval of these remains as “the responsibility of the state,” and sets a nine-year period starting from this fiscal year as an intensive implemen-tation period for government efforts to find and repatriate remains.
戦没者遺骨収集推進法が今月、施行された。遺骨収集を「国の責務」と明確に位置づけ、今年度からの９年間を集中実施期間としたのが主眼だ。
The law requires the government to collect remains systematically and effectively. The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry set aside \2.1 billion from this fiscal year’s budget to cover costs associated with this undertaking.
推進法は、計画的かつ効果的な収集を政府に求めている。厚生労働省は、収集事業費として今年度予算に２１億円を計上した。
Returning remains to Japan has not progressed as well as hoped. Of 2.4 million Japanese who died on foreign battlefields or in Siberian internment camps after the war, the remains of 1.13 million still rest at sites overseas. In the past 10 years, the government has collected only 28,000 sets of remains.
遺骨の帰還は、思うように進んでいない。海外の戦地やシベリア抑留で死亡した２４０万人のうち、１１３万人の遺骨は、いまだに現地に残されたままだ。政府がこの１０年間で収集した遺骨は、２万８０００柱にとどまる。
Many people are dissatisfied with the ministry’s efforts, saying they are “not well planned.”
厚労省の取り組みに対しては、「計画性を欠いている」といった不満も少なくない。
The law was passed as legislation was proposed by lawmakers cooperating across party lines. We applaud the fact that the law promotes attempts to make up for the inadequacy revealed in efforts to date. We hope putting the law into effect will add momentum to the collection of remains.
推進法は超党派の議員立法で成立した。これまでの不十分だった点を補うよう促していることは評価できる。施行を収集に弾みをつける契機にしたい。
Bumps in the road
An especially important element of the law is the stipulation that greater efforts will be made to study documents stored at public records offices and other facilities overseas to collect information regarding where Japanese war dead are buried. It is clear that the conventional method of relying on the memories and other information provided by fellow soldiers has its limits.
推進法で特に重要なのは、埋葬地の情報を収集するため、海外の公文書館などで文献調査を進めるよう定めたことだ。戦友の記憶などに頼る従来の手法では、限界があるのは明らかだ。
Spelling out that the health, labor and welfare minister will work closely with the foreign minister and other ministers to ensure smooth progress in negotiations with governments of nations where remains lie is also an appropriate measure.
現地政府との折衝を円滑に進めるため、厚労相が外相らと連携するよう規定したのも、妥当な措置だと言えよう。
In 2011, it was revealed that remains collected in the Philippines by a nonprofit organization commissioned by the welfare ministry had been mixed with remains of people other than Japanese soldiers.
厚労省から委託を受けたＮＰＯ法人がフィリピンで収集した多数の遺骨の中に、旧日本兵以外のものが混じっていたことが、２０１１年に判明した。
Reflecting on this, the new law says the government will designate a public corporation as a task force to handle collection of the remains. The new corporation is scheduled to be set up by people involved in groups for families of the war dead. The welfare ministry will establish an expert panel to check progress in these activities.
この反省から、推進法には、収集にあたる公的法人を政府が指定し、実動部隊とすることも盛り込まれた。新法人は遺族団体の関係者らによって設立される予定だ。厚労省は、活動状況をチェックする有識者会議を設置する。
The government will soon settle on a basic plan encompassing these specific policies, and will launch it this fiscal year. The new structure must function effectively.
政府は、これらの具体策を網羅した基本計画を近く策定し、今年度中に始動させる。新たな体制を有効に機能させねばならない。
Many problems remain unaddressed. Because DNA examinations are essential for identifying remains, the government is working on a database of samples that can be tested. We hope a system in which these samples can be smoothly compared with DNA provided by relatives will quickly be put in place.
課題もある。遺骨の身元特定には、ＤＮＡ鑑定が不可欠なため、政府は、鑑定可能な検体のデータベース化を進める。遺族のＤＮＡとスムーズに照合できる仕組みの構築を急ぎたい。
About 230,000 sets of remains still lie in China, where remains cannot be collected because anti-Japan sentiment has hampered this operation, and North Korea, a nation with which Japan does not have diplomatic relations. At present, there is no timeframe for when remains might be collected from these countries.
対日感情が障害となって収集ができない中国や、国交のない北朝鮮には、２３万柱が眠る。現時点で収集の見通しは立っていない。
Families are ardently waiting for remains to be returned home. With their feelings in mind, we request that every possible effort be made to realize their wishes.
遺骨が手元に戻ることを待ち望む遺族の思いを汲くみ、可能な限りの取り組みを求めたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 22, 2016)
As families wait, expedite efforts to retrieve remains of war dead
戦没者遺骨収集 遺族の思いを汲んで速やかに
Seventy years have passed since World War II ended, and the families of Japan’s war dead are growing older. Efforts to find and retrieve remains of those who died in countries far from home must be accelerated.
終戦から７０年を経て、戦没者の遺族の高齢化が進む。異郷の地で死亡した戦没者の遺骨収集を急ぎたい。
This month, a law to promote collection of the remains of the war dead came into force. The law’s main points are that it clearly positions retrieval of these remains as “the responsibility of the state,” and sets a nine-year period starting from this fiscal year as an intensive implemen-tation period for government efforts to find and repatriate remains.
戦没者遺骨収集推進法が今月、施行された。遺骨収集を「国の責務」と明確に位置づけ、今年度からの９年間を集中実施期間としたのが主眼だ。
The law requires the government to collect remains systematically and effectively. The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry set aside \2.1 billion from this fiscal year’s budget to cover costs associated with this undertaking.
推進法は、計画的かつ効果的な収集を政府に求めている。厚生労働省は、収集事業費として今年度予算に２１億円を計上した。
Returning remains to Japan has not progressed as well as hoped. Of 2.4 million Japanese who died on foreign battlefields or in Siberian internment camps after the war, the remains of 1.13 million still rest at sites overseas. In the past 10 years, the government has collected only 28,000 sets of remains.
遺骨の帰還は、思うように進んでいない。海外の戦地やシベリア抑留で死亡した２４０万人のうち、１１３万人の遺骨は、いまだに現地に残されたままだ。政府がこの１０年間で収集した遺骨は、２万８０００柱にとどまる。
Many people are dissatisfied with the ministry’s efforts, saying they are “not well planned.”
厚労省の取り組みに対しては、「計画性を欠いている」といった不満も少なくない。
The law was passed as legislation was proposed by lawmakers cooperating across party lines. We applaud the fact that the law promotes attempts to make up for the inadequacy revealed in efforts to date. We hope putting the law into effect will add momentum to the collection of remains.
推進法は超党派の議員立法で成立した。これまでの不十分だった点を補うよう促していることは評価できる。施行を収集に弾みをつける契機にしたい。
Bumps in the road
An especially important element of the law is the stipulation that greater efforts will be made to study documents stored at public records offices and other facilities overseas to collect information regarding where Japanese war dead are buried. It is clear that the conventional method of relying on the memories and other information provided by fellow soldiers has its limits.
推進法で特に重要なのは、埋葬地の情報を収集するため、海外の公文書館などで文献調査を進めるよう定めたことだ。戦友の記憶などに頼る従来の手法では、限界があるのは明らかだ。
Spelling out that the health, labor and welfare minister will work closely with the foreign minister and other ministers to ensure smooth progress in negotiations with governments of nations where remains lie is also an appropriate measure.
現地政府との折衝を円滑に進めるため、厚労相が外相らと連携するよう規定したのも、妥当な措置だと言えよう。
In 2011, it was revealed that remains collected in the Philippines by a nonprofit organization commissioned by the welfare ministry had been mixed with remains of people other than Japanese soldiers.
厚労省から委託を受けたＮＰＯ法人がフィリピンで収集した多数の遺骨の中に、旧日本兵以外のものが混じっていたことが、２０１１年に判明した。
Reflecting on this, the new law says the government will designate a public corporation as a task force to handle collection of the remains. The new corporation is scheduled to be set up by people involved in groups for families of the war dead. The welfare ministry will establish an expert panel to check progress in these activities.
この反省から、推進法には、収集にあたる公的法人を政府が指定し、実動部隊とすることも盛り込まれた。新法人は遺族団体の関係者らによって設立される予定だ。厚労省は、活動状況をチェックする有識者会議を設置する。
The government will soon settle on a basic plan encompassing these specific policies, and will launch it this fiscal year. The new structure must function effectively.
政府は、これらの具体策を網羅した基本計画を近く策定し、今年度中に始動させる。新たな体制を有効に機能させねばならない。
Many problems remain unaddressed. Because DNA examinations are essential for identifying remains, the government is working on a database of samples that can be tested. We hope a system in which these samples can be smoothly compared with DNA provided by relatives will quickly be put in place.
課題もある。遺骨の身元特定には、ＤＮＡ鑑定が不可欠なため、政府は、鑑定可能な検体のデータベース化を進める。遺族のＤＮＡとスムーズに照合できる仕組みの構築を急ぎたい。
About 230,000 sets of remains still lie in China, where remains cannot be collected because anti-Japan sentiment has hampered this operation, and North Korea, a nation with which Japan does not have diplomatic relations. At present, there is no timeframe for when remains might be collected from these countries.
対日感情が障害となって収集ができない中国や、国交のない北朝鮮には、２３万柱が眠る。現時点で収集の見通しは立っていない。
Families are ardently waiting for remains to be returned home. With their feelings in mind, we request that every possible effort be made to realize their wishes.
遺骨が手元に戻ることを待ち望む遺族の思いを汲くみ、可能な限りの取り組みを求めたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 22, 2016)
2016年04月21日
香山リカのココロの万華鏡 :差別は心を破壊する ／東京
April 17, 2016 (Mainichi Japan)
Kaleidoscope of the Heart: Discrimination destroys the heart
香山リカのココロの万華鏡 :差別は心を破壊する ／東京
Rika Kayama (Mainichi)
Japan's ruling parties have submitted a bill to the current Diet session aiming to eliminate hate speech. On the Ministry of Justice's website, hate speech is defined as "discriminatory language and actions that reject the people of a particular ethnic group or nationality." Saying, "I don't like that person because they are mean," is simple badmouthing, but saying, "Get out of Japan, people of (such-and-such a country)" or, "The people of (such-and-such an ethnic group) are inferior" is hate speech.
ヘイトスピーチの解消に向けた与党の法案が、今国会に提出された。法務省のホームページでは、ヘイトスピーチについて「特定の民族や国籍の人々を排斥する差別的言動」とある。「あの人は意地悪だからきらい」はただの悪口だが「○○国の人はみな日本から出て行け」とか「○○民族は劣っている」などはヘイトスピーチにあたる。
Unfortunately, in recent years this kind of speech has been dispersed not only over the Internet, but on Japan's streets.
残念ながら近年、ネットだけでなく公道でこういったヘイトスピーチがばらまかれるようになった。
Hate speech is a problem around the world, but Japan has lagged in responding to the issue. The ruling parties are now rising up to legislate measures against hate speech, and I'm all for celebrating this.
ヘイトスピーチは世界の各国で問題になっているが、日本では対策が遅れていた。それがこのほど与党も法制化に立ち上がったのだ。それは素直に喜びたい。
However, I still have worries. Under the ruling parties' bill, hate speech is considered "improper, discriminatory language and behavior that encourage the removal of people born in countries or territories outside Japan who are living lawfully." Of course language and actions falling under this definition are unforgivable, but hate speech in Japan is not only directed at "people born in countries or territories outside Japan."
しかし、まだ心配が残っている。与党の法案ではこの法律の対象になるのは「日本以外の国または地域の出身者で適法に居住するものを、排除することを扇動する不当な差別的言動」ということになっている。これがヘイトスピーチの定義ということだ。もちろんこういった言動は許されない。ただ、国内のヘイトスピーチは「日本以外の国の出身者」にのみ向けられているわけではない。
For example, as someone from Hokkaido, I immediately think of the Ainu. The Ainu continue to be discriminated against in both employment and marriage, and it is not uncommon for them to be forced into an economically difficult lifestyle. Furthermore, lately there has been an increase in heartless comments directed at the Ainu, particularly online. There are even people who deny their existence, saying, "The Ainu people don't exist anymore."
たとえば、北海道出身の私にとっては、アイヌのことがすぐ思い浮かぶ。アイヌはいまだに就職や結婚で差別され、経済的に苦しい生活を強いられていることも少なくない。しかも最近はネットを中心に、アイヌに対してさらに心ない差別的な言葉が投げかけられるようになった。「アイヌ民族なんてもういない」とその存在を否定する人までいる。
Under the ruling parties' bill, the Ainu, who are Japan-born Japanese nationals, are not considered targets of hate speech. The bill is to be debated in the House of Councillors from here on, but I hope it can somehow be expanded to include "discrimination against any ethnic group or race."
それが今回の与党案の定義では、日本生まれの日本人であるアイヌ民族はヘイトスピーチ対策の対象になっていないのだ。法案は参議院でこれから審議されるようだが、なんとか「あらゆる民族や人種への差別」と対象が広がらないだろうか。
Regardless, how can people say things like "get out" or "get lost" to their fellow humans in the first place? Why are the completely natural ideas that "discrimination is bad" and "everyone has human rights" no longer being followed? It's a shame that we must make a law to stop this, but since hate speech is actually being used widely, legal restrictions are unavoidable.
それにしても、どうして自分と同じ人間に「出て行け」「消えろ」などと言うことができるのか。「差別はいけない」「誰にも人権がある」というごくあたりまえのことが、なぜ通用しない世の中になってしまったのか。それをやめさせるためにわざわざ法律を作らなければならない、というのも情けない話だが、実際にヘイトスピーチが蔓延（まんえん）しているからにはやむを得ないだろう。
I have also had a patient come to my consultation room who was emotionally hurt by seeing a rally involving hate speech. I want people to remember that discrimination destroys the heart.
診察室にも、ヘイトスピーチのデモを目撃して心に傷を負った人がやって来たことがある。差別は人の心を破壊する、ということを忘れないでほしい。
(By Rika Kayama, psychiatrist)
（精神科医）
Kaleidoscope of the Heart: Discrimination destroys the heart
香山リカのココロの万華鏡 :差別は心を破壊する ／東京
Rika Kayama (Mainichi)
Japan's ruling parties have submitted a bill to the current Diet session aiming to eliminate hate speech. On the Ministry of Justice's website, hate speech is defined as "discriminatory language and actions that reject the people of a particular ethnic group or nationality." Saying, "I don't like that person because they are mean," is simple badmouthing, but saying, "Get out of Japan, people of (such-and-such a country)" or, "The people of (such-and-such an ethnic group) are inferior" is hate speech.
ヘイトスピーチの解消に向けた与党の法案が、今国会に提出された。法務省のホームページでは、ヘイトスピーチについて「特定の民族や国籍の人々を排斥する差別的言動」とある。「あの人は意地悪だからきらい」はただの悪口だが「○○国の人はみな日本から出て行け」とか「○○民族は劣っている」などはヘイトスピーチにあたる。
Unfortunately, in recent years this kind of speech has been dispersed not only over the Internet, but on Japan's streets.
残念ながら近年、ネットだけでなく公道でこういったヘイトスピーチがばらまかれるようになった。
Hate speech is a problem around the world, but Japan has lagged in responding to the issue. The ruling parties are now rising up to legislate measures against hate speech, and I'm all for celebrating this.
ヘイトスピーチは世界の各国で問題になっているが、日本では対策が遅れていた。それがこのほど与党も法制化に立ち上がったのだ。それは素直に喜びたい。
However, I still have worries. Under the ruling parties' bill, hate speech is considered "improper, discriminatory language and behavior that encourage the removal of people born in countries or territories outside Japan who are living lawfully." Of course language and actions falling under this definition are unforgivable, but hate speech in Japan is not only directed at "people born in countries or territories outside Japan."
しかし、まだ心配が残っている。与党の法案ではこの法律の対象になるのは「日本以外の国または地域の出身者で適法に居住するものを、排除することを扇動する不当な差別的言動」ということになっている。これがヘイトスピーチの定義ということだ。もちろんこういった言動は許されない。ただ、国内のヘイトスピーチは「日本以外の国の出身者」にのみ向けられているわけではない。
For example, as someone from Hokkaido, I immediately think of the Ainu. The Ainu continue to be discriminated against in both employment and marriage, and it is not uncommon for them to be forced into an economically difficult lifestyle. Furthermore, lately there has been an increase in heartless comments directed at the Ainu, particularly online. There are even people who deny their existence, saying, "The Ainu people don't exist anymore."
たとえば、北海道出身の私にとっては、アイヌのことがすぐ思い浮かぶ。アイヌはいまだに就職や結婚で差別され、経済的に苦しい生活を強いられていることも少なくない。しかも最近はネットを中心に、アイヌに対してさらに心ない差別的な言葉が投げかけられるようになった。「アイヌ民族なんてもういない」とその存在を否定する人までいる。
Under the ruling parties' bill, the Ainu, who are Japan-born Japanese nationals, are not considered targets of hate speech. The bill is to be debated in the House of Councillors from here on, but I hope it can somehow be expanded to include "discrimination against any ethnic group or race."
それが今回の与党案の定義では、日本生まれの日本人であるアイヌ民族はヘイトスピーチ対策の対象になっていないのだ。法案は参議院でこれから審議されるようだが、なんとか「あらゆる民族や人種への差別」と対象が広がらないだろうか。
Regardless, how can people say things like "get out" or "get lost" to their fellow humans in the first place? Why are the completely natural ideas that "discrimination is bad" and "everyone has human rights" no longer being followed? It's a shame that we must make a law to stop this, but since hate speech is actually being used widely, legal restrictions are unavoidable.
それにしても、どうして自分と同じ人間に「出て行け」「消えろ」などと言うことができるのか。「差別はいけない」「誰にも人権がある」というごくあたりまえのことが、なぜ通用しない世の中になってしまったのか。それをやめさせるためにわざわざ法律を作らなければならない、というのも情けない話だが、実際にヘイトスピーチが蔓延（まんえん）しているからにはやむを得ないだろう。
I have also had a patient come to my consultation room who was emotionally hurt by seeing a rally involving hate speech. I want people to remember that discrimination destroys the heart.
診察室にも、ヘイトスピーチのデモを目撃して心に傷を負った人がやって来たことがある。差別は人の心を破壊する、ということを忘れないでほしい。
(By Rika Kayama, psychiatrist)
（精神科医）
2016年04月20日
産油国会合不調 価格安定へ増産凍結を急げ
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Expedite freeze on oil production levels to stabilize crude prices
産油国会合不調 価格安定へ増産凍結を急げ
Oil ministers of major oil-producing countries, including Saudi Arabia and Russia, at a meeting on Sunday put off reaching an agreement on freezing oil output levels.
サウジアラビアやロシアなど、主要産油国による石油相会合が、増産凍結の合意を見送った。
In a bid to stem the decline in crude oil prices, they had aimed to freeze oil output at January levels. As Saudi Arabia was angered by the absence of Iran, which has indicated it would increase production, the ministers put off reaching an accord.
原油価格の下落に歯止めをかけようと、生産量を今年１月の水準で据え置くことを目指していた。だが、増産方針を示しているイランの欠席にサウジが反発したため、結論が先送りされた。
They are said to continue negotiating intermittently until the next meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries scheduled in June.
６月に予定される石油輸出国機構（ＯＰＥＣ）総会まで、断続的に協議を続けるとしている。
Slumping crude oil prices not only have an adverse impact on the economies of oil-producing countries but also are risk factors for oil-consuming countries and the rest of the world.
原油価格の低迷は、産油国経済に悪影響を及ぼすだけでなく、消費国を含む世界全体のリスク要因となっている。
When combined, the crude oil output of the 18 countries that participated in the meeting accounts for half the world’s production. Major oil-producing countries must expedite their efforts in building a consensus on specific measures to stabilize oil prices, including freezing production levels.
会合に参加した１８か国の原油生産量は、世界の半分を占める。主要産油国は、増産凍結を含む価格安定の具体策について、合意形成を急がねばならない。
Following the failure by oil-rich countries to agree to freeze production levels, crude oil futures, which had been traded in the lower half of the $40 range per barrel on the U.S. market, fell further to the upper half of the $30 range.
増産凍結の見送りを受け、１バレル＝４０ドル台前半で推移していた米国の原油先物相場は、３０ドル台後半に下落した。
Fearing that further declines in crude prices may cause turmoil in financial markets, investors have taken a risk-avoidance stance, causing the yen to strengthen and stock prices to decline on the Tokyo market.
一段の原油安が金融市場の波乱要因になりかねないとして、投資家がリスク回避姿勢を強め、東京市場では円高・株安が進んだ。
For Japan, an oil-consuming country, a decline in crude oil prices would usually have a positive effect, but at the current time, the situation is different. We must not underestimate the possible negative impact on the Japanese economy when the pace of its economic recovery has been sluggish.
石油消費国の日本にとって、原油安は本来、プラスになるが、今の局面は状況が異なる。景気回復がもたつく中、日本経済に及ぼす負の影響は軽視できない。
Saudi-Iran rivalry
Oil-producing countries with tight fiscal situations may accelerate their moves to pull their oil money out of financial markets, causing stocks to plunge around the world. Such doubts and fears show signs of spreading. Strict observation of market trends in the days ahead is needed.
財政が逼迫ひっぱくした産油国が、オイルマネーを市場から引き揚げる動きを加速させ、世界的な株安を招くのではないか。そうした疑心暗鬼が広がりつつある。今後の市場動向に注意が必要だ。
Behind the failure of oil-producing countries to reach an accord is a tug-of-war for hegemony in the Middle East between Saudi Arabia, which refers to itself as the leader of Sunni Muslim nations, and Iran, a major Shiite-dominated country.
産油国が合意できなかった背景には、イスラム教スンニ派の盟主を自任するサウジと、シーア派大国のイランが繰り広げる中東の覇権争いがある。
Their confrontation has intensified as the two countries severed diplomatic ties in January following Saudi Arabia’s execution of a prominent Shiite cleric.
サウジがシーア派の宗教指導者を処刑したことを契機に、両国が今年１月に国交を断絶するなど、対立は激化している。
Saudi Arabia is strongly resistant to any agreement that would favor its rival Iran. Meanwhile, Iran can hardly go along with freezing output levels as the country has just begun increasing its production following the lifting in January of economic sanctions imposed by the United States and European countries over Tehran’s nuclear development.
サウジには、敵対するイランを利する内容での決着への抵抗感が強い。イランは、核開発を巡る米欧の経済制裁を１月に解除されて増産に踏み出したばかりで、凍結には乗りにくい。
It will not be easy to untangle the complex factors that are blocking an accord on freezing oil output. The roles Russia and the United States play are important as they are major oil-producing countries outside the Middle East.
合意を阻む複雑な要因を解きほぐすのは容易ではない。中東以外の産油国であるロシアと米国の役割は重要である。
Due to falling crude prices, Russia is suffering from negative economic growth as the country has been hit by the ruble’s sharp decline and high inflation. Meanwhile, the United States has seen the profit margins of its shale oil wells fall. While taking heed of the impacts on their own economies, Russia and the United States should press Saudi Arabia and Iran to reach some kind of compromise.
原油安で、ロシアは通貨ルーブルの急落とインフレに見舞われ、マイナス成長に陥っている。米国も、シェールオイル油田の採算が悪化している。自国経済への影響にも留意して、サウジとイランに歩み寄りを促すべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 19, 2016)
Expedite freeze on oil production levels to stabilize crude prices
産油国会合不調 価格安定へ増産凍結を急げ
Oil ministers of major oil-producing countries, including Saudi Arabia and Russia, at a meeting on Sunday put off reaching an agreement on freezing oil output levels.
サウジアラビアやロシアなど、主要産油国による石油相会合が、増産凍結の合意を見送った。
In a bid to stem the decline in crude oil prices, they had aimed to freeze oil output at January levels. As Saudi Arabia was angered by the absence of Iran, which has indicated it would increase production, the ministers put off reaching an accord.
原油価格の下落に歯止めをかけようと、生産量を今年１月の水準で据え置くことを目指していた。だが、増産方針を示しているイランの欠席にサウジが反発したため、結論が先送りされた。
They are said to continue negotiating intermittently until the next meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries scheduled in June.
６月に予定される石油輸出国機構（ＯＰＥＣ）総会まで、断続的に協議を続けるとしている。
Slumping crude oil prices not only have an adverse impact on the economies of oil-producing countries but also are risk factors for oil-consuming countries and the rest of the world.
原油価格の低迷は、産油国経済に悪影響を及ぼすだけでなく、消費国を含む世界全体のリスク要因となっている。
When combined, the crude oil output of the 18 countries that participated in the meeting accounts for half the world’s production. Major oil-producing countries must expedite their efforts in building a consensus on specific measures to stabilize oil prices, including freezing production levels.
会合に参加した１８か国の原油生産量は、世界の半分を占める。主要産油国は、増産凍結を含む価格安定の具体策について、合意形成を急がねばならない。
Following the failure by oil-rich countries to agree to freeze production levels, crude oil futures, which had been traded in the lower half of the $40 range per barrel on the U.S. market, fell further to the upper half of the $30 range.
増産凍結の見送りを受け、１バレル＝４０ドル台前半で推移していた米国の原油先物相場は、３０ドル台後半に下落した。
Fearing that further declines in crude prices may cause turmoil in financial markets, investors have taken a risk-avoidance stance, causing the yen to strengthen and stock prices to decline on the Tokyo market.
一段の原油安が金融市場の波乱要因になりかねないとして、投資家がリスク回避姿勢を強め、東京市場では円高・株安が進んだ。
For Japan, an oil-consuming country, a decline in crude oil prices would usually have a positive effect, but at the current time, the situation is different. We must not underestimate the possible negative impact on the Japanese economy when the pace of its economic recovery has been sluggish.
石油消費国の日本にとって、原油安は本来、プラスになるが、今の局面は状況が異なる。景気回復がもたつく中、日本経済に及ぼす負の影響は軽視できない。
Saudi-Iran rivalry
Oil-producing countries with tight fiscal situations may accelerate their moves to pull their oil money out of financial markets, causing stocks to plunge around the world. Such doubts and fears show signs of spreading. Strict observation of market trends in the days ahead is needed.
財政が逼迫ひっぱくした産油国が、オイルマネーを市場から引き揚げる動きを加速させ、世界的な株安を招くのではないか。そうした疑心暗鬼が広がりつつある。今後の市場動向に注意が必要だ。
Behind the failure of oil-producing countries to reach an accord is a tug-of-war for hegemony in the Middle East between Saudi Arabia, which refers to itself as the leader of Sunni Muslim nations, and Iran, a major Shiite-dominated country.
産油国が合意できなかった背景には、イスラム教スンニ派の盟主を自任するサウジと、シーア派大国のイランが繰り広げる中東の覇権争いがある。
Their confrontation has intensified as the two countries severed diplomatic ties in January following Saudi Arabia’s execution of a prominent Shiite cleric.
サウジがシーア派の宗教指導者を処刑したことを契機に、両国が今年１月に国交を断絶するなど、対立は激化している。
Saudi Arabia is strongly resistant to any agreement that would favor its rival Iran. Meanwhile, Iran can hardly go along with freezing output levels as the country has just begun increasing its production following the lifting in January of economic sanctions imposed by the United States and European countries over Tehran’s nuclear development.
サウジには、敵対するイランを利する内容での決着への抵抗感が強い。イランは、核開発を巡る米欧の経済制裁を１月に解除されて増産に踏み出したばかりで、凍結には乗りにくい。
It will not be easy to untangle the complex factors that are blocking an accord on freezing oil output. The roles Russia and the United States play are important as they are major oil-producing countries outside the Middle East.
合意を阻む複雑な要因を解きほぐすのは容易ではない。中東以外の産油国であるロシアと米国の役割は重要である。
Due to falling crude prices, Russia is suffering from negative economic growth as the country has been hit by the ruble’s sharp decline and high inflation. Meanwhile, the United States has seen the profit margins of its shale oil wells fall. While taking heed of the impacts on their own economies, Russia and the United States should press Saudi Arabia and Iran to reach some kind of compromise.
原油安で、ロシアは通貨ルーブルの急落とインフレに見舞われ、マイナス成長に陥っている。米国も、シェールオイル油田の採算が悪化している。自国経済への影響にも留意して、サウジとイランに歩み寄りを促すべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 19, 2016)
2016年04月19日
Ｇ２０と世界経済 政策協調の実効性が問われる
The Yomiuri Shimbun
To stabilize global economy, G-20 needs to strengthen coordination
Ｇ２０と世界経済 政策協調の実効性が問われる
Each country is being tested in its efforts to strengthen coordination in implementing the crucial policies needed to stabilize the global economy.
世界経済の安定へ各国に問われるのは、必要な政策の実行に向け、協調をより強める努力だ。
The Group of 20 finance ministers and central bank governors reiterated during a recent meeting their determination to employ all policy tools, such as fiscal and monetary policies, as well as structural reforms.
主要２０か国・地域（Ｇ２０）財務相・中央銀行総裁会議が、財政・金融政策や構造改革などの政策手段を総動員する決意を改めて示した。
Expressing concern over the prospects of the world economy, a communique said, “However, growth remains modest and uneven, and downside risks and uncertainties to the global outlook persist ...”
共同声明は「成長は緩やかでばらつきがあり、下方リスクや不確実性が残っている」として、世界経済の行方に懸念を表明した。
While the financial market is becoming calmer, the G-20 reaffirmed the importance of coordination without relaxing its vigilance. We believe this is appropriate.
金融市場は落ち着きを取り戻しつつあるが、Ｇ２０が危機感を緩めず、協調の重要性を再確認したことは評価できる。
However, the G-20 is not a monolith, as the situations in each country differ.
ただ、各国それぞれの事情があり、Ｇ２０は一枚岩ではない。
While the United States pointed out the effectiveness of an agile fiscal policy, Germany remained cautious on this stance.
米国が機動的な財政政策の有効性を指摘したのに対し、ドイツは慎重な姿勢を崩さなかった。
Deflationary concerns are growing over the European economy. To prop it up, it may be effective for countries with fiscal leeway to start expanding their expenditures.
欧州経済は、デフレ懸念を強めている。景気テコ入れには、財政余力のある国が歳出拡大に踏み出すことも有力な手段となろう。
The communique also expressed the intention of avoiding competitive currency devaluation. “We reiterate that excess volatility and disorderly movements in exchange rates can have adverse implications for economic and financial stability,” it says. A similar phrase was used in the previous meeting.
声明は、通貨の切り下げ競争を回避する意向も盛り込んだ。その上で、「為替相場の過度な変動や無秩序な動きは経済・金融に悪影響を与えうる」という、前回会合と同様の表現を明記した。
Overcoming differences key
Japan deems that the legitimacy of a new dimension of monetary easing has been acknowledged, and its market intervention to deal with the rapid rise in the yen has won understanding.
日本は、異次元の金融緩和の正当性が認められ、急激な円高に市場介入などで対応することにも理解が得られたと解釈している。
Because of a possible slowdown in the pace of additional interest rate increases in the United States, there is concern that the yen may rise further in the future. At a press conference after the G-20 financial leaders meeting, Finance Minister Taro Aso stressed, “Taking necessary action against exchange rate movements is in line with the G-20 agreement.”
米国の追加利上げペースの鈍化をにらみ、今後、円高がさらに進む心配がある。Ｇ２０後の記者会見で、麻生財務相は「為替の動きに必要な対応をとることは、Ｇ２０の合意内容に沿う」と強調した。
U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew, however, attempted to curb Japan’s moves to guide the yen’s value lower, saying, “Despite recent yen appreciation, foreign exchange markets remain orderly.” This is because Lew is wary that the yen’s slide against the dollar could lead to a drop in U.S. exports and worsening employment.
だが、ルー米財務長官は、「最近は円高が進んでいるが、市場の秩序は保たれている」と、日本が円安誘導に動くことを牽制けんせいした。円安・ドル高が国内製造業の輸出不振や雇用悪化などを招くことを警戒しているためだ。
Unless developed countries strengthen their coordination by overcoming differences in their intentions, market stabilization will be far from certain.
先進各国が、思惑の違いを乗り越えて協調を強めなければ、市場の安定はおぼつかない。
The G-20 also hammered out a policy of strengthening measures to stop excessive tax saving. This is based on the fact that the Panama Papers, which exposed a situation in which money is being salted away in tax havens, has become a global issue.
Ｇ２０は、行き過ぎた節税への歯止め策を強化する方針も打ち出した。タックスヘイブン（租税回避地）を使った節税の実態を暴露した「パナマ文書」の流出が、国際問題化したことを踏まえた。
One cannot ignore that companies and wealthy people possessing huge assets pay too little tax, although this is not a clearly illegal act. The G-20’s direction of building an international cooperation framework to close tax loopholes is appropriate.
明確な違法行為でなくとも、巨額の資産を持つ企業や富裕層が、過少な税金しか納めない事態は放置できない。課税の抜け道を塞ぐ国際協力体制を構築しようとするＧ２０の方向性は適切である。
It is hoped the G-20 will closely exchange information and strive to craft more effective rules to also deal swiftly with new methods of avoiding taxes.
新手の税逃れ方法に迅速に対処するためにも、緊密な情報交換と、より効果的なルール作りに努めていくことが期待されよう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 18, 2016)
To stabilize global economy, G-20 needs to strengthen coordination
Ｇ２０と世界経済 政策協調の実効性が問われる
Each country is being tested in its efforts to strengthen coordination in implementing the crucial policies needed to stabilize the global economy.
世界経済の安定へ各国に問われるのは、必要な政策の実行に向け、協調をより強める努力だ。
The Group of 20 finance ministers and central bank governors reiterated during a recent meeting their determination to employ all policy tools, such as fiscal and monetary policies, as well as structural reforms.
主要２０か国・地域（Ｇ２０）財務相・中央銀行総裁会議が、財政・金融政策や構造改革などの政策手段を総動員する決意を改めて示した。
Expressing concern over the prospects of the world economy, a communique said, “However, growth remains modest and uneven, and downside risks and uncertainties to the global outlook persist ...”
共同声明は「成長は緩やかでばらつきがあり、下方リスクや不確実性が残っている」として、世界経済の行方に懸念を表明した。
While the financial market is becoming calmer, the G-20 reaffirmed the importance of coordination without relaxing its vigilance. We believe this is appropriate.
金融市場は落ち着きを取り戻しつつあるが、Ｇ２０が危機感を緩めず、協調の重要性を再確認したことは評価できる。
However, the G-20 is not a monolith, as the situations in each country differ.
ただ、各国それぞれの事情があり、Ｇ２０は一枚岩ではない。
While the United States pointed out the effectiveness of an agile fiscal policy, Germany remained cautious on this stance.
米国が機動的な財政政策の有効性を指摘したのに対し、ドイツは慎重な姿勢を崩さなかった。
Deflationary concerns are growing over the European economy. To prop it up, it may be effective for countries with fiscal leeway to start expanding their expenditures.
欧州経済は、デフレ懸念を強めている。景気テコ入れには、財政余力のある国が歳出拡大に踏み出すことも有力な手段となろう。
The communique also expressed the intention of avoiding competitive currency devaluation. “We reiterate that excess volatility and disorderly movements in exchange rates can have adverse implications for economic and financial stability,” it says. A similar phrase was used in the previous meeting.
声明は、通貨の切り下げ競争を回避する意向も盛り込んだ。その上で、「為替相場の過度な変動や無秩序な動きは経済・金融に悪影響を与えうる」という、前回会合と同様の表現を明記した。
Overcoming differences key
Japan deems that the legitimacy of a new dimension of monetary easing has been acknowledged, and its market intervention to deal with the rapid rise in the yen has won understanding.
日本は、異次元の金融緩和の正当性が認められ、急激な円高に市場介入などで対応することにも理解が得られたと解釈している。
Because of a possible slowdown in the pace of additional interest rate increases in the United States, there is concern that the yen may rise further in the future. At a press conference after the G-20 financial leaders meeting, Finance Minister Taro Aso stressed, “Taking necessary action against exchange rate movements is in line with the G-20 agreement.”
米国の追加利上げペースの鈍化をにらみ、今後、円高がさらに進む心配がある。Ｇ２０後の記者会見で、麻生財務相は「為替の動きに必要な対応をとることは、Ｇ２０の合意内容に沿う」と強調した。
U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew, however, attempted to curb Japan’s moves to guide the yen’s value lower, saying, “Despite recent yen appreciation, foreign exchange markets remain orderly.” This is because Lew is wary that the yen’s slide against the dollar could lead to a drop in U.S. exports and worsening employment.
だが、ルー米財務長官は、「最近は円高が進んでいるが、市場の秩序は保たれている」と、日本が円安誘導に動くことを牽制けんせいした。円安・ドル高が国内製造業の輸出不振や雇用悪化などを招くことを警戒しているためだ。
Unless developed countries strengthen their coordination by overcoming differences in their intentions, market stabilization will be far from certain.
先進各国が、思惑の違いを乗り越えて協調を強めなければ、市場の安定はおぼつかない。
The G-20 also hammered out a policy of strengthening measures to stop excessive tax saving. This is based on the fact that the Panama Papers, which exposed a situation in which money is being salted away in tax havens, has become a global issue.
Ｇ２０は、行き過ぎた節税への歯止め策を強化する方針も打ち出した。タックスヘイブン（租税回避地）を使った節税の実態を暴露した「パナマ文書」の流出が、国際問題化したことを踏まえた。
One cannot ignore that companies and wealthy people possessing huge assets pay too little tax, although this is not a clearly illegal act. The G-20’s direction of building an international cooperation framework to close tax loopholes is appropriate.
明確な違法行為でなくとも、巨額の資産を持つ企業や富裕層が、過少な税金しか納めない事態は放置できない。課税の抜け道を塞ぐ国際協力体制を構築しようとするＧ２０の方向性は適切である。
It is hoped the G-20 will closely exchange information and strive to craft more effective rules to also deal swiftly with new methods of avoiding taxes.
新手の税逃れ方法に迅速に対処するためにも、緊密な情報交換と、より効果的なルール作りに努めていくことが期待されよう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 18, 2016)