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2016年02月10日
北方領土問題 首脳会談で打開の糸口を探れ
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Abe should find way forward on Northern Territories in talks with Putin
北方領土問題 首脳会談で打開の糸口を探れ
Russia maintains a tough, inflexible position regarding the territorial issue over the northern islands it occupies off Hokkaido. We hope the stalemate will be broken as Prime Minister Shinzo Abe holds more talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
北方領土問題に対するロシアの姿勢は、硬直的で厳しい。安倍首相がプーチン大統領との会談を重ねる中で、打開の糸口を見つけたい。
Speaking at a national meeting to demand the return of the four islands on Northern Territories Day on Sunday, Abe said, “Negotiations will be conducted tenaciously to work out a final solution through a dialogue of top leaders.”
首相は「北方領土の日」の７日、返還要求全国大会に出席した。領土問題について「首脳レベルの対話を通じ、最終的解決に向けて粘り強く交渉に臨む」と訴えた。
Arrangements are being made for Abe to meet with Putin in the southern Russian city of Sochi during the extended holiday period from late April to early May. Tokyo and Moscow will also attempt to determine the most appropriate time for Putin to visit Japan.
４〜５月の大型連休にロシア南部のソチで、プーチン氏と会談する方向で調整している。プーチン氏の来日も、日露両政府が「最も適切な時期」を模索する。
Putin’s decision on the matter is indispensable to resolving the territorial issue. Abe’s desire to seek a solution by visiting Russia is therefore understandable.
領土問題の解決にはプーチン氏の決断が不可欠なだけに、自らの訪露で問題の前進を図ろうとする首相の意図は理解できる。
But opposition can be expected from the United States and some European countries, which are at odds with Russia over the Ukrainian situation. To realize Abe’s visit to Russia ahead of the Ise-Shima summit of the Group of Seven major powers, which will be chaired by Abe, it is essential to secure the understanding of the other G-7 leaders.
ただ、ウクライナ情勢を巡ってロシアと対立する米欧の反発も予想される。主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）前に議長の首相が訪露することには、他の首脳の理解を求める努力が欠かせない。
Last month, the government established a new representative post on bilateral issues with Russia and appointed Chikahito Harada, former ambassador to Russia. Harada will represent Japan at vice-ministerial meetings with Russia instead of a deputy minister for foreign affairs. The appointment is believed to be aimed at more intensively tackling the territorial issue by establishing a task force for that purpose.
政府は１月に、日露関係担当の政府代表ポストを新設し、原田親仁・前ロシア大使を起用した。従来の外務審議官に代わって、日露外務次官級協議に出席する。領土交渉の専従体制を作り、腰を据えて取り組むのが狙いだろう。
Abe apparently wants to bolster security relations with Russia, thereby checking China’s increased maritime advancement and North Korea’s nuclear and missile development.
首相には、ロシアとの安全保障関係を強化し、中国の海洋進出や、北朝鮮の核・ミサイル開発を牽制けんせいしたい思惑もあるようだ。
No ‘token of goodwill’
Russia is also wary over China’s emergence. Due to the drop in crude oil prices and the weakness of the ruble, Russia’s economy has continued to deteriorate, with its gross domestic product falling to less than one-fourth of China’s. Some people have expressed concern about the widening gap in strength between the two countries.
ロシアにも、中国の台頭への警戒感がある。原油・ルーブル安によるロシア経済の悪化が続き、国内総生産（ＧＤＰ）は中国の４分の１以下に落ち込んだ。国力の格差拡大を危惧する声もある。
Whether Moscow concurs with Tokyo about the importance of improving bilateral relations in Russia’s rivalry with Beijing could be a factor in making progress on the territorial issue.
ロシアが中国との対抗上、日露関係を改善する重要性を日本と共有するかどうかが、領土問題を進展させる一つのカギとなろう。
A statement made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a news conference in late January cannot be overlooked. “Conclusion of a peace treaty is not a synonym for resolution of the territorial issue,” he said bluntly.
看過できないのは、ロシアのラブロフ外相が１月下旬の記者会見で、「平和条約（の締結）は領土問題の解決と同義語ではない」と言い放ったことだ。
Concerning the return of the Habomai group of islets and Shikokan Island, based on the Japan-Soviet Joint Declaration of 1956, Lavrov said these islands “would be handed over as a token of goodwill, not returned.”
１９５６年の日ソ共同宣言に基づく歯舞、色丹両島の返還についても「返還ではなく、善意のしるしとして引き渡す」と語った。
But since the 1993 Tokyo Declaration on Japan-Russia Relations, both governments have confirmed repeatedly that they would try “to resolve the sovereignty issue over the four islands and conclude a peace treaty.” Thus resolution of the territorial issue and conclusion of a peace treaty are inseparable.
だが、９３年の東京宣言以降、日露両政府は再三、「北方４島の帰属問題を解決し、平和条約を締結する」と確認してきた。領土問題と平和条約は不可分である。
There is no mention of “a token of goodwill” in the Japan-Soviet Joint Declaration. Lavrov’s self-serving interpretation cannot be accepted.
日ソ共同宣言に「善意のしるし」との文言はない。ラブロフ氏の独善的な解釈は容認できない。
While attempting to explore the real intention behind Putin’s reference to resolving the territorial dispute “in a draw,” the government must proceed with negotiations prudently and strategically.
政府は、「引き分け」による領土問題の解決を唱えるプーチン氏の真意を探りながら、慎重かつ戦略的に協議を進めるべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 9, 2016)
Abe should find way forward on Northern Territories in talks with Putin
北方領土問題 首脳会談で打開の糸口を探れ
Russia maintains a tough, inflexible position regarding the territorial issue over the northern islands it occupies off Hokkaido. We hope the stalemate will be broken as Prime Minister Shinzo Abe holds more talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
北方領土問題に対するロシアの姿勢は、硬直的で厳しい。安倍首相がプーチン大統領との会談を重ねる中で、打開の糸口を見つけたい。
Speaking at a national meeting to demand the return of the four islands on Northern Territories Day on Sunday, Abe said, “Negotiations will be conducted tenaciously to work out a final solution through a dialogue of top leaders.”
首相は「北方領土の日」の７日、返還要求全国大会に出席した。領土問題について「首脳レベルの対話を通じ、最終的解決に向けて粘り強く交渉に臨む」と訴えた。
Arrangements are being made for Abe to meet with Putin in the southern Russian city of Sochi during the extended holiday period from late April to early May. Tokyo and Moscow will also attempt to determine the most appropriate time for Putin to visit Japan.
４〜５月の大型連休にロシア南部のソチで、プーチン氏と会談する方向で調整している。プーチン氏の来日も、日露両政府が「最も適切な時期」を模索する。
Putin’s decision on the matter is indispensable to resolving the territorial issue. Abe’s desire to seek a solution by visiting Russia is therefore understandable.
領土問題の解決にはプーチン氏の決断が不可欠なだけに、自らの訪露で問題の前進を図ろうとする首相の意図は理解できる。
But opposition can be expected from the United States and some European countries, which are at odds with Russia over the Ukrainian situation. To realize Abe’s visit to Russia ahead of the Ise-Shima summit of the Group of Seven major powers, which will be chaired by Abe, it is essential to secure the understanding of the other G-7 leaders.
ただ、ウクライナ情勢を巡ってロシアと対立する米欧の反発も予想される。主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）前に議長の首相が訪露することには、他の首脳の理解を求める努力が欠かせない。
Last month, the government established a new representative post on bilateral issues with Russia and appointed Chikahito Harada, former ambassador to Russia. Harada will represent Japan at vice-ministerial meetings with Russia instead of a deputy minister for foreign affairs. The appointment is believed to be aimed at more intensively tackling the territorial issue by establishing a task force for that purpose.
政府は１月に、日露関係担当の政府代表ポストを新設し、原田親仁・前ロシア大使を起用した。従来の外務審議官に代わって、日露外務次官級協議に出席する。領土交渉の専従体制を作り、腰を据えて取り組むのが狙いだろう。
Abe apparently wants to bolster security relations with Russia, thereby checking China’s increased maritime advancement and North Korea’s nuclear and missile development.
首相には、ロシアとの安全保障関係を強化し、中国の海洋進出や、北朝鮮の核・ミサイル開発を牽制けんせいしたい思惑もあるようだ。
No ‘token of goodwill’
Russia is also wary over China’s emergence. Due to the drop in crude oil prices and the weakness of the ruble, Russia’s economy has continued to deteriorate, with its gross domestic product falling to less than one-fourth of China’s. Some people have expressed concern about the widening gap in strength between the two countries.
ロシアにも、中国の台頭への警戒感がある。原油・ルーブル安によるロシア経済の悪化が続き、国内総生産（ＧＤＰ）は中国の４分の１以下に落ち込んだ。国力の格差拡大を危惧する声もある。
Whether Moscow concurs with Tokyo about the importance of improving bilateral relations in Russia’s rivalry with Beijing could be a factor in making progress on the territorial issue.
ロシアが中国との対抗上、日露関係を改善する重要性を日本と共有するかどうかが、領土問題を進展させる一つのカギとなろう。
A statement made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a news conference in late January cannot be overlooked. “Conclusion of a peace treaty is not a synonym for resolution of the territorial issue,” he said bluntly.
看過できないのは、ロシアのラブロフ外相が１月下旬の記者会見で、「平和条約（の締結）は領土問題の解決と同義語ではない」と言い放ったことだ。
Concerning the return of the Habomai group of islets and Shikokan Island, based on the Japan-Soviet Joint Declaration of 1956, Lavrov said these islands “would be handed over as a token of goodwill, not returned.”
１９５６年の日ソ共同宣言に基づく歯舞、色丹両島の返還についても「返還ではなく、善意のしるしとして引き渡す」と語った。
But since the 1993 Tokyo Declaration on Japan-Russia Relations, both governments have confirmed repeatedly that they would try “to resolve the sovereignty issue over the four islands and conclude a peace treaty.” Thus resolution of the territorial issue and conclusion of a peace treaty are inseparable.
だが、９３年の東京宣言以降、日露両政府は再三、「北方４島の帰属問題を解決し、平和条約を締結する」と確認してきた。領土問題と平和条約は不可分である。
There is no mention of “a token of goodwill” in the Japan-Soviet Joint Declaration. Lavrov’s self-serving interpretation cannot be accepted.
日ソ共同宣言に「善意のしるし」との文言はない。ラブロフ氏の独善的な解釈は容認できない。
While attempting to explore the real intention behind Putin’s reference to resolving the territorial dispute “in a draw,” the government must proceed with negotiations prudently and strategically.
政府は、「引き分け」による領土問題の解決を唱えるプーチン氏の真意を探りながら、慎重かつ戦略的に協議を進めるべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 9, 2016)
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2016年02月09日
北ミサイル発射 地域の安定を揺るがす暴挙だ
The Yomiuri Shimbun
North Korea missile launch needs strong UNSC response
北ミサイル発射 地域の安定を揺るがす暴挙だ
◆安保理は厳格な制裁決議を急げ
North Korea’s latest missile launch has further increased the threat from that country, which is shaking the regional peace and stability. The international community must unite in its efforts to deal with the threat.
地域の平和と安定を揺るがす北朝鮮の脅威が一段と増大した。国際社会は結束し、対応せねばならない。
North Korea has gone ahead with launching a long-range ballistic missile under the pretext of orbiting what it described as a “satellite.” It is an absolute folly.
北朝鮮が「人工衛星打ち上げ」との名目で、長距離弾道ミサイルの発射を強行した。愚挙の極みである。
In an “important special broadcast,” state-run Korean Central Television announced that the country had launched an Earth observation satellite and successfully put it into orbit.
国営の朝鮮中央テレビは「特別重大報道」で「地球観測衛星を打ち上げ、軌道への進入に完全に成功した」と発表した。
U.N. Security Council resolutions previously adopted over North Korea’s nuclear weapon and missile development prohibit Pyongyang from any launch using ballistic missile technology. The country’s latest missile launch, along with January’s nuclear test, was a clear violation of the resolutions.
北朝鮮の核・ミサイル開発を巡る国連安全保障理事会の決議は、弾道ミサイル技術を使った発射を禁じている。今回の発射が、１月の核実験と同様に、決議に違反しているのは明白だ。
Increasing concern
◆懸念増す核運搬技術
North Korea’s repeated reckless conducts, which pose a serious challenge to the international order, cannot be tolerated. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had every reason to emphasize his determination, saying, “We will resolutely take measures, acting in cooperation with the international community.”
度重なる暴挙は、国際秩序への深刻な挑戦であり、決して容認できない。安倍首相が「国際社会と連携して、毅然きぜんと対応していく」と強調したのは当然である。
The missile recently launched by North Korea is believed to have been a three-stage ballistic missile similar to an improved version of the Taepodong 2 missile, a model the country sent aloft in December 2012. According to observations by the U.S. authorities, an object detached from the missile is believed to have circled the Earth.
北朝鮮が発射したのは、前回の２０１２年１２月の「テポドン２改良型」に類似した３段式の弾道ミサイルとみられている。米当局の観測によると、ミサイルから分離された物体が地球を周回した模様だ。
The fact that it reached outer space like in 2012, illustrates advancement in that nation’s missile technology. Some point out North Korea’s extension of a launchpad last year was part of an effort to increase the size of its missiles, thereby extend the range.
前回に続いて宇宙空間にまで到達したことは、北朝鮮のミサイル技術の前進を裏付ける。昨年の発射台の延長工事は、ミサイル大型化で射程を伸ばす目的だったとの見方もある。
North Korea’s effort to develop missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads and reaching the U.S. mainland is aimed at bringing the United States to the negotiating table.
北朝鮮は、米本土を核搭載ミサイルで攻撃できる能力を確立することで、米国を交渉の場に引き出すのが狙いだろう。
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, first secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea, is inexperienced and rules his country through a reign of terror in which close aides are purged one after another. We feel the latest missile launch shows he has become even more incapable of making reasonable decisions.
経験が乏しい金正恩第１書記は側近を次々に粛清する恐怖政治を敷いている。ミサイル発射は、ますます合理的な判断ができなくなっている証左ではないのか。
The U.N. Security Council is to discuss the latest missile launch at an emergency meeting. It is essential for the council to hammer out effective measures. Japan, a nonpermanent member of the council, needs to proactively work to encourage other members of the U.N. organ to adopt strong sanctions against North Korea.
安保理は緊急会合で、発射問題を協議する。実効性のある措置を打ち出すことが肝要だ。非常任理事国の日本も、強力な制裁決議の採択を他の理事国に積極的に働きかける必要がある。
China’s responsibility
◆中国の責任は重大だ
The problem is that China, which holds a lifeline that can determine whether North Korea can survive economically, remains cautious about strengthening sanctions. Although Beijing said North Korea’s missile launch was “regrettable,” it avoided any strong denunciation of Pyongyang.
問題なのは、経済面で北朝鮮の生命線を握る中国が、制裁強化に慎重姿勢を崩していないことだ。中国政府は発射に「遺憾」を表明したが、厳しい非難は避けた。
Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke by phone with U.S. President Barack Obama two days before the missile launch and confirmed the need for a coordinated response to North Korea’s actions.
習近平国家主席はミサイル発射の２日前、オバマ米大統領と電話会談し、連携して北朝鮮に対応することを確認していた。
Yet Xi insisted only on a solution through dialogue and consultation, indicating that it will not compromise with the United States, which called for stronger sanctions.
しかし、習氏は「対話と協議を通じて問題を解決する」と語るだけで、強力な制裁を追求する米国への歩み寄りを見せなかった。
China’s lukewarm posture may have bolstered North Korea. Shortly after the U.S.-China phone conversation, North Korea notified an international organization that it was bringing forward the start of the window during which it would launch a rocket.
こうした中国の中途半端な姿勢が、北朝鮮を増長させたのではないか。北朝鮮は、米中電話会談の直後、国際機関に対して発射予告期間の前倒しを通告した。
North Korea has repeatedly conducted nuclear tests and missile launches. It is obvious that previous sanctions are not sufficient.
北朝鮮は核実験とミサイル発射を繰り返している。従来の制裁が不十分なのは明らかだろう。
China should no longer avoid imposing sanctions on North Korea, which would deal a blow to Pyongyang, and should cooperate with the U.N. Security Council to adopt strong sanctions.
中国は北朝鮮に打撃を与える制裁をこれ以上回避せず、安保理決議の採択に協力すべきだ。
In criticizing the launch, South Korean President Park Geun-hye said North Korea is trying to advance its nuclear technology and missile capability to deliver a nuclear weapon.
朴槿恵韓国大統領は、発射を非難し、「北朝鮮は核と、その運搬手段であるミサイル能力を高度化しようとしている」と断じた。
The South Korean government announced that it would begin official talks with the United States to deploy one of the most advanced U.S. missile defense systems in South Korea. Seoul’s decision, made in disregard of China’s opposition, can be construed as a decision to modify its tilt toward China.
韓国政府は、最新鋭の米ミサイル防衛システムの韓国配備について、米国と公式協議を行うと発表した。中国の反対を押し切っての決定で、対中傾斜を修正する意思の表れだと言えよう。
North Korea is said to have deployed a large number of Rodong ballistic missiles that can reach Japan. If North Korea improves the accuracy of the missiles, they will, together with the country’s ability to develop smaller nuclear weapons, pose a more serious threat to Japan.
北朝鮮は、日本を射程に収める弾道ミサイル・ノドンを大量に実戦配備しているとされる。ミサイルの精度が向上すれば、核兵器の小型化と相まって、日本にとっても脅威が深刻化する。
Immediately after the missile launch, the Japanese government held a meeting of the National Security Council attended by its four ministers, to analyze intelligence and discuss what actions should be taken in the days ahead.
政府はミサイル発射の直後に、国家安全保障会議（ＮＳＣ）の４大臣会合を開いて、情報を分析し、今後の対応などを協議した。
Three minutes after the missile launch, the government reported the relevant information to local governments in Okinawa Prefecture and others, through the J-Alert instant warning system. The smooth transmission of this information was praiseworthy.
政府は発射の３分後、全国瞬時警報システム「Ｊアラート」で沖縄県の自治体などに情報を速報した。概おおむね円滑な情報伝達が行われたのは評価できる。
Bolster crisis control
◆危機管理体制を万全に
Although the Self-Defense Forces had been ordered to intercept any incoming missiles from North Korea, no measures to intercept were taken, as the SDF judged that there was no possibility of the missile falling onto Japanese territory.
自衛隊には、「破壊措置命令」が出されていたが、ミサイルが国内に落下する恐れはないと判断し、迎撃措置は取らなかった。
It was appropriate that the SDF, by responding promptly to North Korea’s advancing the start of the window for launching a rocket, had completed its deployment of the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) surface-to-air guided missile units and other preparations.
北朝鮮の発射予告期間の前倒しに迅速に対処し、自衛隊が地対空誘導弾ＰＡＣ３などの配備を完了させたのは適切だった。
It is essential to examine the latest series of responses and beef up the crisis-management system for the entire country.
今回の一連の対応を検証し、日本全体の危機管理体制を強化することが欠かせない。
North Korea has also postponed its report on the reinvestigation of the abducted Japanese nationals. The government should consider in earnest the revival or reinforcement of its own sanctions that were lifted earlier.
北朝鮮は、日本人拉致被害者の再調査の報告も先送りしている。政府は、解除した独自制裁の復活や強化を真剣に検討すべきだ。
As North Korea has continued taking actions that completely run counter to improving its relations with Japan, this country will implement harsh measures commensurate to the steps taken by North Korea. It is important for this country to adhere to the principle of “action for action.”
北朝鮮が対日関係改善に完全に逆行する行動を続けた以上、日本は、それに見合う厳しい措置を取る。「行動対行動」の原則を貫くことが重要である。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 8, 2016)
North Korea missile launch needs strong UNSC response
北ミサイル発射 地域の安定を揺るがす暴挙だ
◆安保理は厳格な制裁決議を急げ
North Korea’s latest missile launch has further increased the threat from that country, which is shaking the regional peace and stability. The international community must unite in its efforts to deal with the threat.
地域の平和と安定を揺るがす北朝鮮の脅威が一段と増大した。国際社会は結束し、対応せねばならない。
North Korea has gone ahead with launching a long-range ballistic missile under the pretext of orbiting what it described as a “satellite.” It is an absolute folly.
北朝鮮が「人工衛星打ち上げ」との名目で、長距離弾道ミサイルの発射を強行した。愚挙の極みである。
In an “important special broadcast,” state-run Korean Central Television announced that the country had launched an Earth observation satellite and successfully put it into orbit.
国営の朝鮮中央テレビは「特別重大報道」で「地球観測衛星を打ち上げ、軌道への進入に完全に成功した」と発表した。
U.N. Security Council resolutions previously adopted over North Korea’s nuclear weapon and missile development prohibit Pyongyang from any launch using ballistic missile technology. The country’s latest missile launch, along with January’s nuclear test, was a clear violation of the resolutions.
北朝鮮の核・ミサイル開発を巡る国連安全保障理事会の決議は、弾道ミサイル技術を使った発射を禁じている。今回の発射が、１月の核実験と同様に、決議に違反しているのは明白だ。
Increasing concern
◆懸念増す核運搬技術
North Korea’s repeated reckless conducts, which pose a serious challenge to the international order, cannot be tolerated. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had every reason to emphasize his determination, saying, “We will resolutely take measures, acting in cooperation with the international community.”
度重なる暴挙は、国際秩序への深刻な挑戦であり、決して容認できない。安倍首相が「国際社会と連携して、毅然きぜんと対応していく」と強調したのは当然である。
The missile recently launched by North Korea is believed to have been a three-stage ballistic missile similar to an improved version of the Taepodong 2 missile, a model the country sent aloft in December 2012. According to observations by the U.S. authorities, an object detached from the missile is believed to have circled the Earth.
北朝鮮が発射したのは、前回の２０１２年１２月の「テポドン２改良型」に類似した３段式の弾道ミサイルとみられている。米当局の観測によると、ミサイルから分離された物体が地球を周回した模様だ。
The fact that it reached outer space like in 2012, illustrates advancement in that nation’s missile technology. Some point out North Korea’s extension of a launchpad last year was part of an effort to increase the size of its missiles, thereby extend the range.
前回に続いて宇宙空間にまで到達したことは、北朝鮮のミサイル技術の前進を裏付ける。昨年の発射台の延長工事は、ミサイル大型化で射程を伸ばす目的だったとの見方もある。
North Korea’s effort to develop missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads and reaching the U.S. mainland is aimed at bringing the United States to the negotiating table.
北朝鮮は、米本土を核搭載ミサイルで攻撃できる能力を確立することで、米国を交渉の場に引き出すのが狙いだろう。
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, first secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea, is inexperienced and rules his country through a reign of terror in which close aides are purged one after another. We feel the latest missile launch shows he has become even more incapable of making reasonable decisions.
経験が乏しい金正恩第１書記は側近を次々に粛清する恐怖政治を敷いている。ミサイル発射は、ますます合理的な判断ができなくなっている証左ではないのか。
The U.N. Security Council is to discuss the latest missile launch at an emergency meeting. It is essential for the council to hammer out effective measures. Japan, a nonpermanent member of the council, needs to proactively work to encourage other members of the U.N. organ to adopt strong sanctions against North Korea.
安保理は緊急会合で、発射問題を協議する。実効性のある措置を打ち出すことが肝要だ。非常任理事国の日本も、強力な制裁決議の採択を他の理事国に積極的に働きかける必要がある。
China’s responsibility
◆中国の責任は重大だ
The problem is that China, which holds a lifeline that can determine whether North Korea can survive economically, remains cautious about strengthening sanctions. Although Beijing said North Korea’s missile launch was “regrettable,” it avoided any strong denunciation of Pyongyang.
問題なのは、経済面で北朝鮮の生命線を握る中国が、制裁強化に慎重姿勢を崩していないことだ。中国政府は発射に「遺憾」を表明したが、厳しい非難は避けた。
Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke by phone with U.S. President Barack Obama two days before the missile launch and confirmed the need for a coordinated response to North Korea’s actions.
習近平国家主席はミサイル発射の２日前、オバマ米大統領と電話会談し、連携して北朝鮮に対応することを確認していた。
Yet Xi insisted only on a solution through dialogue and consultation, indicating that it will not compromise with the United States, which called for stronger sanctions.
しかし、習氏は「対話と協議を通じて問題を解決する」と語るだけで、強力な制裁を追求する米国への歩み寄りを見せなかった。
China’s lukewarm posture may have bolstered North Korea. Shortly after the U.S.-China phone conversation, North Korea notified an international organization that it was bringing forward the start of the window during which it would launch a rocket.
こうした中国の中途半端な姿勢が、北朝鮮を増長させたのではないか。北朝鮮は、米中電話会談の直後、国際機関に対して発射予告期間の前倒しを通告した。
North Korea has repeatedly conducted nuclear tests and missile launches. It is obvious that previous sanctions are not sufficient.
北朝鮮は核実験とミサイル発射を繰り返している。従来の制裁が不十分なのは明らかだろう。
China should no longer avoid imposing sanctions on North Korea, which would deal a blow to Pyongyang, and should cooperate with the U.N. Security Council to adopt strong sanctions.
中国は北朝鮮に打撃を与える制裁をこれ以上回避せず、安保理決議の採択に協力すべきだ。
In criticizing the launch, South Korean President Park Geun-hye said North Korea is trying to advance its nuclear technology and missile capability to deliver a nuclear weapon.
朴槿恵韓国大統領は、発射を非難し、「北朝鮮は核と、その運搬手段であるミサイル能力を高度化しようとしている」と断じた。
The South Korean government announced that it would begin official talks with the United States to deploy one of the most advanced U.S. missile defense systems in South Korea. Seoul’s decision, made in disregard of China’s opposition, can be construed as a decision to modify its tilt toward China.
韓国政府は、最新鋭の米ミサイル防衛システムの韓国配備について、米国と公式協議を行うと発表した。中国の反対を押し切っての決定で、対中傾斜を修正する意思の表れだと言えよう。
North Korea is said to have deployed a large number of Rodong ballistic missiles that can reach Japan. If North Korea improves the accuracy of the missiles, they will, together with the country’s ability to develop smaller nuclear weapons, pose a more serious threat to Japan.
北朝鮮は、日本を射程に収める弾道ミサイル・ノドンを大量に実戦配備しているとされる。ミサイルの精度が向上すれば、核兵器の小型化と相まって、日本にとっても脅威が深刻化する。
Immediately after the missile launch, the Japanese government held a meeting of the National Security Council attended by its four ministers, to analyze intelligence and discuss what actions should be taken in the days ahead.
政府はミサイル発射の直後に、国家安全保障会議（ＮＳＣ）の４大臣会合を開いて、情報を分析し、今後の対応などを協議した。
Three minutes after the missile launch, the government reported the relevant information to local governments in Okinawa Prefecture and others, through the J-Alert instant warning system. The smooth transmission of this information was praiseworthy.
政府は発射の３分後、全国瞬時警報システム「Ｊアラート」で沖縄県の自治体などに情報を速報した。概おおむね円滑な情報伝達が行われたのは評価できる。
Bolster crisis control
◆危機管理体制を万全に
Although the Self-Defense Forces had been ordered to intercept any incoming missiles from North Korea, no measures to intercept were taken, as the SDF judged that there was no possibility of the missile falling onto Japanese territory.
自衛隊には、「破壊措置命令」が出されていたが、ミサイルが国内に落下する恐れはないと判断し、迎撃措置は取らなかった。
It was appropriate that the SDF, by responding promptly to North Korea’s advancing the start of the window for launching a rocket, had completed its deployment of the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) surface-to-air guided missile units and other preparations.
北朝鮮の発射予告期間の前倒しに迅速に対処し、自衛隊が地対空誘導弾ＰＡＣ３などの配備を完了させたのは適切だった。
It is essential to examine the latest series of responses and beef up the crisis-management system for the entire country.
今回の一連の対応を検証し、日本全体の危機管理体制を強化することが欠かせない。
North Korea has also postponed its report on the reinvestigation of the abducted Japanese nationals. The government should consider in earnest the revival or reinforcement of its own sanctions that were lifted earlier.
北朝鮮は、日本人拉致被害者の再調査の報告も先送りしている。政府は、解除した独自制裁の復活や強化を真剣に検討すべきだ。
As North Korea has continued taking actions that completely run counter to improving its relations with Japan, this country will implement harsh measures commensurate to the steps taken by North Korea. It is important for this country to adhere to the principle of “action for action.”
北朝鮮が対日関係改善に完全に逆行する行動を続けた以上、日本は、それに見合う厳しい措置を取る。「行動対行動」の原則を貫くことが重要である。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 8, 2016)
2016年02月08日
地方の未来 移住促進へ文化力を生かそう
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Use cultural power to promote migration to provincial areas
地方の未来 移住促進へ文化力を生かそう
The excessive concentration of people and industry in the Tokyo metropolitan area continues. How can we create a flow of people to provincial areas where the population is decreasing?
東京圏への一極集中が止まらない。人口減少が続く地方への人の流れをいかに作り出すか。
Attracting people by utilizing their inherent cultures and uncovering alluring features unique to particular areas will be an important consideration.
地域文化を生かして固有の魅力を発掘し、人を呼び込む視点が肝要だろう。
According to a 2015 population migration report compiled by the Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry, people who moved into the Tokyo metropolitan area numbered nearly 120,000 more than those who had moved out of it. For 20 straight years, the number of people who moved into the metropolitan area exceeded the number of those who moved out.
総務省の２０１５年の人口移動報告で、東京圏への転入者が転出者を１２万人近く上回った。２０年連続の転入超過である。
Among Japan’s three largest urban sprawls, however, more people have left the Osaka and Nagoya areas compared to those who have moved in.
３大都市圏でも、大阪、名古屋圏は逆に転出者の方が多い。
In its comprehensive strategy for “vitalization of local economies,” the government aims to equalize the figures of those moving into and out of the metropolitan area by 2020. However, if nothing is done to change the current situation, it will be impossible to achieve this goal. Genuine efforts must be made to promote the migration of people to provincial areas.
政府は「地方創生」の総合戦略で、２０年に東京圏から地方への転出と転入を均衡させる目標を掲げた。現状を放置していては、目標達成は見通せない。地方移住の促進に本腰を入れる必要がある。
How can the attractions of provincial areas be made to shine and conveyed elsewhere? First, the number of visitors to those areas should be increased by organizing sightseeing, homecoming and migration tours. In addition to migration, the return of people to provincial areas must be carried forward by aiming to realize “residency in two areas” − or the lifestyle of moving back and forth between urban and provincial areas.
地域の魅力をどう磨き、発信するか。まずは観光や帰省、移住を誘うツアーによる来訪者を増やしたい。移住に加え、都市と地方を往還する「２地域居住」も目指し、地方回帰を進めねばならない。
The cultural powers rooted in each area should be used. There are various kinds of cultural resources − such as history, cultural property, traditional arts, customs, local cuisine and scenery − but some provincial areas have not yet identified their values.
活用したいのが、地域に根づく文化の力だ。歴史や文化財、伝統芸能、習俗、郷土食、景観など、文化資源は数多いが、価値に気づいていない地域もあろう。
Discovering hidden assets
Both the public and private sectors should unearth hidden cultural resources and disseminate information about them domestically and internationally in a variety of creative ways, including promotional videos.
埋もれた資源を官民で掘り起こし、ＰＲ動画を含め、工夫を凝らして国内外に発信したい。
Good use should be made of “Japan Heritage,” a system launched last year by the Cultural Affairs Agency.
文化庁が昨年、設けた「日本遺産」をうまく使ってはどうか。
Under the system, cultural resources scattered in provincial areas that are connected by a “story” are considered heritages. So far, 18 resources have been recognized following applications from local governments.
地域に点在する文化資源を結びつける「物語」を遺産としてとらえる制度だ。自治体の申請に基づき、計１８件が認定されている。
For example, the Shikoku Henro, straddling 57 municipalities in the Shikoku region, is considered a piece of heritage based on the culture of pilgrimage routes. Akari Mau Hanto Noto (Noto peninsula of dancing lights) is a piece of heritage focusing on the Kiriko Matsuri traditional lantern float festivals handed down in six Ishikawa Prefecture municipalities.
四国の５７市町村にまたがる「四国遍路」は、巡礼文化をたどる遺産だ。「灯あかり舞う半島 能登」は石川県の６市町に息づく伝統のキリコ祭りにスポットを当てた。
Such heritages should be developed as tourism resources. They are expected to have the effect of attracting not only Japanese people but also visitors to Japan from abroad.
観光資源として整備したい。日本人だけでなく、訪日外国人客を誘導する効果も期待できる。
Local governments must work jointly with local residents to find candidates for Japan Heritage. Such efforts would also help local people create a sense of pride in their regions, and nurture human resources to lead development of those areas.
自治体が住民と協力して遺産候補を探すことが大切だ。郷土への誇りを培い、地域づくりを先導する人材の育成にも役立とう。
It is also important to consider the increasing number of vacant houses and retail premises, and abolished school buildings, as assets, and try to reuse them as accommodations and operational bases for migrating workers and other people.
増え続ける空き家や空き店舗、廃校舎を資源ととらえ、移住者らの滞在施設や活動拠点として再利用する発想も欠かせない。
For example, the village of Higashi-Yoshino, Nara Prefecture, renovated a vacant house into a shared office last year. Working conditions in the mountain village became popular via the Internet, and five people have already migrated to work there.
奈良県東吉野村は昨年、空き家を共有オフィスに改装した。山里の作業環境がネット上で評判を呼び、既に５人が移住した。
According to a survey by the Cabinet Office, nearly 40 percent of urban residents in their 20s indicated that they wish to settle down in farming, fishing or mountain villages. The attractions of working in traditional village culture should be presented to young people wishing to live outside of urban areas to entice them into provincial areas.
内閣府調査によると、都会の２０歳代の４割近くが農山漁村への定住願望を抱く。里山文化を体感して働く魅力を提案し、ローカル志向の若者を呼び込みたい。
The government should place importance on vitalization of local economies with cultural power. We expect the central government to help local governments tap their cultural resources and connect such efforts to a correction of the excessive concentration of people and industry in the metropolitan area.
政府は、文化力による地方創生を重視すべきだ。自治体の文化資源の活用を後押しし、一極集中の是正につなげてもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 6, 2016)
Use cultural power to promote migration to provincial areas
地方の未来 移住促進へ文化力を生かそう
The excessive concentration of people and industry in the Tokyo metropolitan area continues. How can we create a flow of people to provincial areas where the population is decreasing?
東京圏への一極集中が止まらない。人口減少が続く地方への人の流れをいかに作り出すか。
Attracting people by utilizing their inherent cultures and uncovering alluring features unique to particular areas will be an important consideration.
地域文化を生かして固有の魅力を発掘し、人を呼び込む視点が肝要だろう。
According to a 2015 population migration report compiled by the Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry, people who moved into the Tokyo metropolitan area numbered nearly 120,000 more than those who had moved out of it. For 20 straight years, the number of people who moved into the metropolitan area exceeded the number of those who moved out.
総務省の２０１５年の人口移動報告で、東京圏への転入者が転出者を１２万人近く上回った。２０年連続の転入超過である。
Among Japan’s three largest urban sprawls, however, more people have left the Osaka and Nagoya areas compared to those who have moved in.
３大都市圏でも、大阪、名古屋圏は逆に転出者の方が多い。
In its comprehensive strategy for “vitalization of local economies,” the government aims to equalize the figures of those moving into and out of the metropolitan area by 2020. However, if nothing is done to change the current situation, it will be impossible to achieve this goal. Genuine efforts must be made to promote the migration of people to provincial areas.
政府は「地方創生」の総合戦略で、２０年に東京圏から地方への転出と転入を均衡させる目標を掲げた。現状を放置していては、目標達成は見通せない。地方移住の促進に本腰を入れる必要がある。
How can the attractions of provincial areas be made to shine and conveyed elsewhere? First, the number of visitors to those areas should be increased by organizing sightseeing, homecoming and migration tours. In addition to migration, the return of people to provincial areas must be carried forward by aiming to realize “residency in two areas” − or the lifestyle of moving back and forth between urban and provincial areas.
地域の魅力をどう磨き、発信するか。まずは観光や帰省、移住を誘うツアーによる来訪者を増やしたい。移住に加え、都市と地方を往還する「２地域居住」も目指し、地方回帰を進めねばならない。
The cultural powers rooted in each area should be used. There are various kinds of cultural resources − such as history, cultural property, traditional arts, customs, local cuisine and scenery − but some provincial areas have not yet identified their values.
活用したいのが、地域に根づく文化の力だ。歴史や文化財、伝統芸能、習俗、郷土食、景観など、文化資源は数多いが、価値に気づいていない地域もあろう。
Discovering hidden assets
Both the public and private sectors should unearth hidden cultural resources and disseminate information about them domestically and internationally in a variety of creative ways, including promotional videos.
埋もれた資源を官民で掘り起こし、ＰＲ動画を含め、工夫を凝らして国内外に発信したい。
Good use should be made of “Japan Heritage,” a system launched last year by the Cultural Affairs Agency.
文化庁が昨年、設けた「日本遺産」をうまく使ってはどうか。
Under the system, cultural resources scattered in provincial areas that are connected by a “story” are considered heritages. So far, 18 resources have been recognized following applications from local governments.
地域に点在する文化資源を結びつける「物語」を遺産としてとらえる制度だ。自治体の申請に基づき、計１８件が認定されている。
For example, the Shikoku Henro, straddling 57 municipalities in the Shikoku region, is considered a piece of heritage based on the culture of pilgrimage routes. Akari Mau Hanto Noto (Noto peninsula of dancing lights) is a piece of heritage focusing on the Kiriko Matsuri traditional lantern float festivals handed down in six Ishikawa Prefecture municipalities.
四国の５７市町村にまたがる「四国遍路」は、巡礼文化をたどる遺産だ。「灯あかり舞う半島 能登」は石川県の６市町に息づく伝統のキリコ祭りにスポットを当てた。
Such heritages should be developed as tourism resources. They are expected to have the effect of attracting not only Japanese people but also visitors to Japan from abroad.
観光資源として整備したい。日本人だけでなく、訪日外国人客を誘導する効果も期待できる。
Local governments must work jointly with local residents to find candidates for Japan Heritage. Such efforts would also help local people create a sense of pride in their regions, and nurture human resources to lead development of those areas.
自治体が住民と協力して遺産候補を探すことが大切だ。郷土への誇りを培い、地域づくりを先導する人材の育成にも役立とう。
It is also important to consider the increasing number of vacant houses and retail premises, and abolished school buildings, as assets, and try to reuse them as accommodations and operational bases for migrating workers and other people.
増え続ける空き家や空き店舗、廃校舎を資源ととらえ、移住者らの滞在施設や活動拠点として再利用する発想も欠かせない。
For example, the village of Higashi-Yoshino, Nara Prefecture, renovated a vacant house into a shared office last year. Working conditions in the mountain village became popular via the Internet, and five people have already migrated to work there.
奈良県東吉野村は昨年、空き家を共有オフィスに改装した。山里の作業環境がネット上で評判を呼び、既に５人が移住した。
According to a survey by the Cabinet Office, nearly 40 percent of urban residents in their 20s indicated that they wish to settle down in farming, fishing or mountain villages. The attractions of working in traditional village culture should be presented to young people wishing to live outside of urban areas to entice them into provincial areas.
内閣府調査によると、都会の２０歳代の４割近くが農山漁村への定住願望を抱く。里山文化を体感して働く魅力を提案し、ローカル志向の若者を呼び込みたい。
The government should place importance on vitalization of local economies with cultural power. We expect the central government to help local governments tap their cultural resources and connect such efforts to a correction of the excessive concentration of people and industry in the metropolitan area.
政府は、文化力による地方創生を重視すべきだ。自治体の文化資源の活用を後押しし、一極集中の是正につなげてもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 6, 2016)
2016年02月07日
首相の改憲論 あまりの倒錯に驚く
--The Asahi Shimbun, Feb. 6
EDITORIAL: Abe’s perverse argument for rewriting Constitution
（社説）首相の改憲論 あまりの倒錯に驚く
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has been aggressively signaling his eagerness to rewrite the Constitution, which potentially includes the revision of its war-renouncing Article 9.
安倍首相が、９条も視野に入れた憲法改正への意欲を積極的に発信している。
He is apparently hoping to pave the way for realizing his long-cherished dream ahead of the Upper House election to be held in summer. His reasoning, however, is strikingly perverse.
夏の参院選を控え、悲願の実現に向けた地ならしをする狙いがあるようだ。だが、その論法はあまりにも倒錯している。
Seventy percent of constitutional scholars have judged that, in light of the interpretation of Article 9, the very presence of the Self-Defense Forces may violate the Constitution, the prime minister told a session of the Lower House Budget Committee. “There is a prevailing belief that this situation must be eliminated.”
首相は衆院予算委員会で「憲法学者の７割が、９条の解釈からすれば自衛隊の存在自体が憲法違反のおそれがあると判断している」「この状況をなくすべきではないかという考え方もある」と述べた。
He made the remark in reply to a question from his close aide Tomomi Inada, chairwoman of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s Policy Research Council, who said, “Constitutionalism is being emasculated somewhat by leaving Paragraph 2 of Article 9, which no longer fits reality, intact.”
首相に近い自民党の稲田政調会長が「現実に合わない９条２項をこのままにしておくことこそ、立憲主義を空洞化する」と聞いたのに答えたものだ。
In an Asahi Shimbun survey of constitutional scholars last year, 63 percent of the respondents said they believed the presence of SDF troops either “violates” or “may violate” the Constitution. But at the same time, 98 percent of the respondents also pointed out that bills for new security legislation, which the Abe administration had submitted to the Diet after reinterpreting the Constitution to lift Japan’s self-imposed ban on the right to exercise collective self-defense, either “violate” or “may violate” the Constitution.
確かに朝日新聞の昨年の憲法学者へのアンケートでは、６３％が自衛隊の存在は「憲法違反」「憲法違反の可能性がある」と答えている。同時に、安倍政権が集団的自衛権の行使を認める憲法解釈変更をへて国会に提出した安全保障関連法案については、９８％が「違憲」「違憲の可能性」を指摘している。
Abe’s Cabinet overrode the opposition of a majority of constitutional scholars and of the public by overturning the constitutional interpretation of successive Cabinets, which long held the view that Japan was not allowed to exercise the right to collective self-defense.
多数の憲法学者と国民の反対を押し切り、集団的自衛権は行使できないとの歴代内閣の憲法解釈を、閣議決定だけで変えてしまったのは安倍内閣である。
The right course for Abe would be to retract the security legislation if he takes issue with the disagreement between the existence of SDF troops and the views of scholars. He should also engage in serious soul-searching if he finds fault with constitutionalism being “emasculated.”
自衛隊の存在と学者の見解とのへだたりを問題にするのであれば、安保法制を撤回するのが筋ではないか。「立憲主義の空洞化」を批判するなら、まずは我が身を省みるべきだろう。
“Believing that even a finger should not be laid on the Constitution amounts to abandoning thought,” Abe told a lawmaker of the opposition Democratic Party of Japan, who called Abe’s Diet responses into question, during a separate Diet session. “Instead of doing so, the LDP has presented a draft for amendments,” said the prime minister, who challenged the DPJ to present its own.
首相は国会で、一連の答弁を疑問視する民主党議員に対し、「憲法に指一本触れてはならないと考えることで思考停止になる」「自民党はそうではなく、改正草案を示している」と語り、民主党にも草案を「出してみて下さいよ」と挑発した。
Abe simply steamrolled his reinterpretation of the Constitution in circumventing the process of amending it when he had his Cabinet lift the ban on the right to exercise collective self-defense. But he now proudly says his party has “presented a draft for amendments.” How can he be so opportunistic?
集団的自衛権の行使容認では憲法改正の手続きを避け、解釈変更を押し通しながら、いまになって「改正案を示している」と胸を張る。ずいぶんと都合のいい話ではないか。
The LDP’s draft for an amended Article 9, which explicitly spells out Japan’s self-defense rights, calls for Japan to possess “Defense Forces,” an upgrade from the SDF.
自民党の９条改正案は自衛権を明記し、「国防軍の保持」をうたう。
Abe acknowledged, in the meantime, that amending Article 9 has yet to win the support of the public. Asked which part, then, of the Constitution he wants to see amended and exactly how, the prime minister only answered, “Discussions in the Diet and among the public will find a gradual convergence.”
一方で首相は、９条改正が国民の支持を得ている状況にないと認めている。それでは憲法のどこをどう改正するのかと問われれば、「国会や国民的な議論の中でだんだんと収斂（しゅうれん）していく」と答えるのみだ。
The Constitution is the supreme law to protect the rights of individuals, defend peace and prescribe the status of power and authority. So yes, let the Diet and the public discuss it, including whether it should be amended at all.
憲法は、一人ひとりの人権と平和を守り、権力のあり方を規定する最高法規である。国会でも、国民的にも、改正の是非を含め論じ合えばいい。
But we never embrace an argument for rewriting the Constitution, wherein amendment has become an end in itself instead of what that amendment actually is.
ただし、中身ではなく改正そのものが目的化した改憲論には与（くみ）することはできない。
EDITORIAL: Abe’s perverse argument for rewriting Constitution
（社説）首相の改憲論 あまりの倒錯に驚く
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has been aggressively signaling his eagerness to rewrite the Constitution, which potentially includes the revision of its war-renouncing Article 9.
安倍首相が、９条も視野に入れた憲法改正への意欲を積極的に発信している。
He is apparently hoping to pave the way for realizing his long-cherished dream ahead of the Upper House election to be held in summer. His reasoning, however, is strikingly perverse.
夏の参院選を控え、悲願の実現に向けた地ならしをする狙いがあるようだ。だが、その論法はあまりにも倒錯している。
Seventy percent of constitutional scholars have judged that, in light of the interpretation of Article 9, the very presence of the Self-Defense Forces may violate the Constitution, the prime minister told a session of the Lower House Budget Committee. “There is a prevailing belief that this situation must be eliminated.”
首相は衆院予算委員会で「憲法学者の７割が、９条の解釈からすれば自衛隊の存在自体が憲法違反のおそれがあると判断している」「この状況をなくすべきではないかという考え方もある」と述べた。
He made the remark in reply to a question from his close aide Tomomi Inada, chairwoman of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s Policy Research Council, who said, “Constitutionalism is being emasculated somewhat by leaving Paragraph 2 of Article 9, which no longer fits reality, intact.”
首相に近い自民党の稲田政調会長が「現実に合わない９条２項をこのままにしておくことこそ、立憲主義を空洞化する」と聞いたのに答えたものだ。
In an Asahi Shimbun survey of constitutional scholars last year, 63 percent of the respondents said they believed the presence of SDF troops either “violates” or “may violate” the Constitution. But at the same time, 98 percent of the respondents also pointed out that bills for new security legislation, which the Abe administration had submitted to the Diet after reinterpreting the Constitution to lift Japan’s self-imposed ban on the right to exercise collective self-defense, either “violate” or “may violate” the Constitution.
確かに朝日新聞の昨年の憲法学者へのアンケートでは、６３％が自衛隊の存在は「憲法違反」「憲法違反の可能性がある」と答えている。同時に、安倍政権が集団的自衛権の行使を認める憲法解釈変更をへて国会に提出した安全保障関連法案については、９８％が「違憲」「違憲の可能性」を指摘している。
Abe’s Cabinet overrode the opposition of a majority of constitutional scholars and of the public by overturning the constitutional interpretation of successive Cabinets, which long held the view that Japan was not allowed to exercise the right to collective self-defense.
多数の憲法学者と国民の反対を押し切り、集団的自衛権は行使できないとの歴代内閣の憲法解釈を、閣議決定だけで変えてしまったのは安倍内閣である。
The right course for Abe would be to retract the security legislation if he takes issue with the disagreement between the existence of SDF troops and the views of scholars. He should also engage in serious soul-searching if he finds fault with constitutionalism being “emasculated.”
自衛隊の存在と学者の見解とのへだたりを問題にするのであれば、安保法制を撤回するのが筋ではないか。「立憲主義の空洞化」を批判するなら、まずは我が身を省みるべきだろう。
“Believing that even a finger should not be laid on the Constitution amounts to abandoning thought,” Abe told a lawmaker of the opposition Democratic Party of Japan, who called Abe’s Diet responses into question, during a separate Diet session. “Instead of doing so, the LDP has presented a draft for amendments,” said the prime minister, who challenged the DPJ to present its own.
首相は国会で、一連の答弁を疑問視する民主党議員に対し、「憲法に指一本触れてはならないと考えることで思考停止になる」「自民党はそうではなく、改正草案を示している」と語り、民主党にも草案を「出してみて下さいよ」と挑発した。
Abe simply steamrolled his reinterpretation of the Constitution in circumventing the process of amending it when he had his Cabinet lift the ban on the right to exercise collective self-defense. But he now proudly says his party has “presented a draft for amendments.” How can he be so opportunistic?
集団的自衛権の行使容認では憲法改正の手続きを避け、解釈変更を押し通しながら、いまになって「改正案を示している」と胸を張る。ずいぶんと都合のいい話ではないか。
The LDP’s draft for an amended Article 9, which explicitly spells out Japan’s self-defense rights, calls for Japan to possess “Defense Forces,” an upgrade from the SDF.
自民党の９条改正案は自衛権を明記し、「国防軍の保持」をうたう。
Abe acknowledged, in the meantime, that amending Article 9 has yet to win the support of the public. Asked which part, then, of the Constitution he wants to see amended and exactly how, the prime minister only answered, “Discussions in the Diet and among the public will find a gradual convergence.”
一方で首相は、９条改正が国民の支持を得ている状況にないと認めている。それでは憲法のどこをどう改正するのかと問われれば、「国会や国民的な議論の中でだんだんと収斂（しゅうれん）していく」と答えるのみだ。
The Constitution is the supreme law to protect the rights of individuals, defend peace and prescribe the status of power and authority. So yes, let the Diet and the public discuss it, including whether it should be amended at all.
憲法は、一人ひとりの人権と平和を守り、権力のあり方を規定する最高法規である。国会でも、国民的にも、改正の是非を含め論じ合えばいい。
But we never embrace an argument for rewriting the Constitution, wherein amendment has become an end in itself instead of what that amendment actually is.
ただし、中身ではなく改正そのものが目的化した改憲論には与（くみ）することはできない。
2016年02月06日
廃棄食品横流し 安全優先の意識が欠けている
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Reselling of disposed food shows safety wasn’t given top priority
廃棄食品横流し 安全優先の意識が欠けている
Food that should have been thrown away has been distributed and ended up on many dining tables. This must be prevented from happening again.
廃棄されるべき食品が流通し、食卓に上っていた。再発を防がなければならない。
Ichibanya Co., operator of the CoCo Ichibanya curry restaurant chain, had entrusted Daiko, an industrial waste disposal company in Aichi Prefecture, to discard frozen beef cutlets. However, Daiko illegally resold the cutlets, which ended up being sold at supermarkets and retailers.
カレーチェーン「ＣｏＣｏ壱番屋」を展開する壱番屋が廃棄を委託した冷凍ビーフカツが、愛知県の産業廃棄物処理会社「ダイコー」によって横流しされ、スーパーや小売店で売られていた。
There were suspicions some of the cutlets had been contaminated by a foreign substance. Daiko’s president reportedly tried to explain his actions by saying, “I succumbed to the temptation of being able to make a profit without spending money to dispose of the food.”
冷凍カツには、異物混入の疑いがあった。ダイコーの会長は「処理費用をかけずに、利益を得られるので、魔が差した」と釈明しているという。
We are extremely concerned by Daiko’s attitude of giving precedence to making a profit by distributing the frozen cutlets, despite fears they could harm the health of consumers.
健康被害の恐れがありながら、冷凍カツを流通させた利益優先の姿勢は、極めて問題である。
Daiko sold the cutlets to a noodle maker. At its facilities, the noodle maker was found to be storing 108 kinds of food, including miso and deli items sold at major convenience stores and by food makers. All these items appear to have been bought from Daiko − and were supposed to have been discarded.
横流しを受けた製麺業者の施設からは、大手コンビニエンスストアや食品メーカーの総菜やみそなど、１０８品目もの製品が見つかっている。全てダイコーから入手した廃棄食品とみられる。
Reselling such items had seemingly become a common practice. Police have launched an investigation into what is suspected to be a violation of the Waste Management and Public Cleansing Law. We hope the police will quickly trace the distribution channels.
横流しが常態化していたのだろう。警察は廃棄物処理法違反の疑いで捜査に乗り出した。流通経路の特定を急いでもらいたい。
The waste management law obliges operators of waste disposal businesses to submit a report, called a manifest, to companies that produce the waste. The kinds and volumes of waste to be handled, as well as the method of disposal, must be specified in the report. This is meant to give transparency to the flow of industrial waste.
廃棄物処理法は、処理業者に対し、扱った産業廃棄物の種類や量、処理方法をマニフェスト（管理票）に記載し、廃棄した事業者に報告するよう義務づけている。産廃の流れを透明化するためだ。
Reducing ‘food loss’
However, Daiko falsely reported to Ichibanya that all the cutlets “had been made into compost.” This shows there are limits to managing industrial waste through these reports.
しかし、ダイコーは壱番屋に、「すべて堆肥化した」と虚偽の報告をしていた。マニフェストによる廃棄物管理には限界があることを示している。
The Environment Ministry should crack down on such deceitful operators by strengthening its guidance and screening of them, and by reviewing its inspection system of the manifest.
悪質な業者を排除するため、環境省は、指導や検査を強化し、マニフェストのチェック体制も再検討すべきだ。
A response by operators who dispose of food will also be important to prevent further wrongdoing.
不正防止には、食品を廃棄する事業者側の対応も重要である。
Since this scandal emerged, Ichibanya has decided it would no longer hand over food for disposal in its original state as a food product. Instead, items will be removed from the wrapping and mixed with other waste food sludge before being entrusted to an operator for disposal. In cases in which waste is discarded in the form of a food product, an Ichibanya employee will accompany the contractor to observe the disposal process until the final phase.
事件を受けて、壱番屋は、製品をそのまま廃棄せず、包装を外して汚泥などに混ぜてから処理を委託することを決めた。製品の状態のまま委託する際には、最終処理まで社員を立ち会わせる。
We hope operators that handle food will thoroughly implement such steps.
食品を扱う業者は、こうした取り組みを徹底してほしい。
It must not be forgotten that what is known as “food loss” was behind this incident. Even excluding cases like this one, in which a foreign substance was thought to have contaminated a food product, about 6.4 million tons of food are discarded each year in Japan for various reasons, including the approach of their best-before date.
事件の背景に、「食品ロス」の問題があることも忘れてはならない。今回のような異物混入がなくても、賞味期限が迫ったという理由などで廃棄される食品は、国内で年６４０万トンにも上る。
It can be said that the illegal reselling of food has taken advantage of the habit of discarding food that can still be consumed. The industry must come up with shrewd ways to reduce “food loss.”
横流しは、まだ食べられる食品を捨ててしまう慣習につけ込んでいるとも言える。業界には食品ロスを減らす工夫が求められる。
Many consumers tend to avoid food nearing its best-buy date, and instead opt for items produced more recently. They need to reconsider their perceptions in this respect.
賞味期限が間もなく切れる食品を避け、製造から日が浅いものを選びがちな消費者の意識も、見直す必要があるだろう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 5, 2016)
Reselling of disposed food shows safety wasn’t given top priority
廃棄食品横流し 安全優先の意識が欠けている
Food that should have been thrown away has been distributed and ended up on many dining tables. This must be prevented from happening again.
廃棄されるべき食品が流通し、食卓に上っていた。再発を防がなければならない。
Ichibanya Co., operator of the CoCo Ichibanya curry restaurant chain, had entrusted Daiko, an industrial waste disposal company in Aichi Prefecture, to discard frozen beef cutlets. However, Daiko illegally resold the cutlets, which ended up being sold at supermarkets and retailers.
カレーチェーン「ＣｏＣｏ壱番屋」を展開する壱番屋が廃棄を委託した冷凍ビーフカツが、愛知県の産業廃棄物処理会社「ダイコー」によって横流しされ、スーパーや小売店で売られていた。
There were suspicions some of the cutlets had been contaminated by a foreign substance. Daiko’s president reportedly tried to explain his actions by saying, “I succumbed to the temptation of being able to make a profit without spending money to dispose of the food.”
冷凍カツには、異物混入の疑いがあった。ダイコーの会長は「処理費用をかけずに、利益を得られるので、魔が差した」と釈明しているという。
We are extremely concerned by Daiko’s attitude of giving precedence to making a profit by distributing the frozen cutlets, despite fears they could harm the health of consumers.
健康被害の恐れがありながら、冷凍カツを流通させた利益優先の姿勢は、極めて問題である。
Daiko sold the cutlets to a noodle maker. At its facilities, the noodle maker was found to be storing 108 kinds of food, including miso and deli items sold at major convenience stores and by food makers. All these items appear to have been bought from Daiko − and were supposed to have been discarded.
横流しを受けた製麺業者の施設からは、大手コンビニエンスストアや食品メーカーの総菜やみそなど、１０８品目もの製品が見つかっている。全てダイコーから入手した廃棄食品とみられる。
Reselling such items had seemingly become a common practice. Police have launched an investigation into what is suspected to be a violation of the Waste Management and Public Cleansing Law. We hope the police will quickly trace the distribution channels.
横流しが常態化していたのだろう。警察は廃棄物処理法違反の疑いで捜査に乗り出した。流通経路の特定を急いでもらいたい。
The waste management law obliges operators of waste disposal businesses to submit a report, called a manifest, to companies that produce the waste. The kinds and volumes of waste to be handled, as well as the method of disposal, must be specified in the report. This is meant to give transparency to the flow of industrial waste.
廃棄物処理法は、処理業者に対し、扱った産業廃棄物の種類や量、処理方法をマニフェスト（管理票）に記載し、廃棄した事業者に報告するよう義務づけている。産廃の流れを透明化するためだ。
Reducing ‘food loss’
However, Daiko falsely reported to Ichibanya that all the cutlets “had been made into compost.” This shows there are limits to managing industrial waste through these reports.
しかし、ダイコーは壱番屋に、「すべて堆肥化した」と虚偽の報告をしていた。マニフェストによる廃棄物管理には限界があることを示している。
The Environment Ministry should crack down on such deceitful operators by strengthening its guidance and screening of them, and by reviewing its inspection system of the manifest.
悪質な業者を排除するため、環境省は、指導や検査を強化し、マニフェストのチェック体制も再検討すべきだ。
A response by operators who dispose of food will also be important to prevent further wrongdoing.
不正防止には、食品を廃棄する事業者側の対応も重要である。
Since this scandal emerged, Ichibanya has decided it would no longer hand over food for disposal in its original state as a food product. Instead, items will be removed from the wrapping and mixed with other waste food sludge before being entrusted to an operator for disposal. In cases in which waste is discarded in the form of a food product, an Ichibanya employee will accompany the contractor to observe the disposal process until the final phase.
事件を受けて、壱番屋は、製品をそのまま廃棄せず、包装を外して汚泥などに混ぜてから処理を委託することを決めた。製品の状態のまま委託する際には、最終処理まで社員を立ち会わせる。
We hope operators that handle food will thoroughly implement such steps.
食品を扱う業者は、こうした取り組みを徹底してほしい。
It must not be forgotten that what is known as “food loss” was behind this incident. Even excluding cases like this one, in which a foreign substance was thought to have contaminated a food product, about 6.4 million tons of food are discarded each year in Japan for various reasons, including the approach of their best-before date.
事件の背景に、「食品ロス」の問題があることも忘れてはならない。今回のような異物混入がなくても、賞味期限が迫ったという理由などで廃棄される食品は、国内で年６４０万トンにも上る。
It can be said that the illegal reselling of food has taken advantage of the habit of discarding food that can still be consumed. The industry must come up with shrewd ways to reduce “food loss.”
横流しは、まだ食べられる食品を捨ててしまう慣習につけ込んでいるとも言える。業界には食品ロスを減らす工夫が求められる。
Many consumers tend to avoid food nearing its best-buy date, and instead opt for items produced more recently. They need to reconsider their perceptions in this respect.
賞味期限が間もなく切れる食品を避け、製造から日が浅いものを選びがちな消費者の意識も、見直す必要があるだろう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 5, 2016)
2016年02月05日
北ミサイル予告 挑発許さぬ意思を明確に示せ
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Send North Korea clear message that missile provocation won’t be tolerated
北ミサイル予告 挑発許さぬ意思を明確に示せ
The international community must stand united and ratchet up the pressure on North Korea to deter that nation from advancing its nuclear and missile programs.
北朝鮮の核ミサイル開発を阻止するため、国際社会が結束して圧力を強めねばならない。
North Korea has given notice that it will launch a satellite between Feb. 8 and Feb. 25. Although Pyongyang stubbornly insists the launch is for peaceful purposes, it will actually be a launch of a long-range ballistic missile.
北朝鮮が、２月８〜２５日の間に人工衛星を打ち上げると予告した。平和目的だと強弁するが、事実上の長距離弾道ミサイルの発射だ。
A number of U.N. Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from conducting launches that use ballistic missile technology. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was quite right to demand that North Korea refrain from going through with the launch, saying, “This would constitute a violation of these resolutions and represent a serious provocation to Japan’s security.”
国連安全保障理事会は度重なる決議で、北朝鮮に対し、弾道ミサイル技術を使った発射を禁じている。安倍首相が「決議違反であり、我が国の安全保障上の重大な挑発行為だ」として、自制を求めたのは当然である。
On Jan. 6, North Korea pressed ahead with a nuclear test in violation of Security Council resolutions. Its notification of the planned launch has ratcheted up the threat to regional stability even higher. It is essential that the nations concerned work closely together and send a clear message that the launch is not tolerable.
北朝鮮は１月６日に安保理決議に反して核実験を強行した。発射予告は、地域の安定を一段と脅かすものだ。関係国は緊密に連携し、発射を容認しない意思を明確に打ち出すことが欠かせない。
North Korea has used its nuclear tests to make progress on the miniaturization of a warhead. It is believed to be attempting to boost the capability of its long-range ballistic missiles, including increasing their range, as it seeks to acquire a means to attack the U.S. mainland.
北朝鮮は、核実験で弾頭の小型化を進めている。米本土を攻撃する手段の獲得を目指し、長距離弾道ミサイルの射程延伸など性能向上も図っているとされる。
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un apparently aims to display his achievements to domestic and international audiences before the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea meets in May for its first convention in 36 years. Scheduling the launch for around the time of important events to mark the birthday of Kim’s father − former leader Kim Jong Il − might also be aimed at enhancing that nation’s prestige.
金正恩第１書記には、３６年ぶりとなる５月の朝鮮労働党大会を前に、実績を内外に示す狙いがあるのだろう。父親である金正日総書記の誕生日という重要行事前後に発射を予定するのは、国威発揚につなげるためではないか。
China must step up
It is disconcerting that although almost one month has passed since North Korea conducted a nuclear test, the U.N. Security Council has not yet adopted a sanctions resolution. This is because China has opposed U.S. attempts to impose tough sanctions, including an embargo on shipments of fuel to North Korea.
問題なのは、核実験から１か月近く経過しながら、安保理の制裁決議がいまだに採択されていないことである。米国が燃料類の禁輸など強力な制裁を追求しているのに中国が反対しているからだ。
During his recent visit to China, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called on Beijing to cooperate in imposing sanctions, as it “has a particular ability because of its special role and its connections to North Korea.” However, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi maintained a fundamental argument from start to finish that any new resolution “must not destabilize the Korean Peninsula.”
ケリー国務長官が訪中して「中国は北朝鮮への特別な能力と役割を持っている」と述べ、協力を求めた。だが、王毅外相は「決議で朝鮮半島を不安定化させてはならない」と、原則論に終始した。
China’s reluctance to give sanctions more bite has undeniably allowed North Korea to rattle the region by issuing a notification of the upcoming launch. Pyongyang’s launch announcement came on the day Wu Dawei, China’s special representative for Korean Peninsula Affairs, arrived in North Korea for a visit. This indicates China has not exerted enough pressure on North Korea.
中国が制裁強化に消極的であることが、北朝鮮に発射予告という揺さぶりを許したのは否めまい。北朝鮮は、中国の武大偉・朝鮮半島事務特別代表が訪朝した日に、発射を予告した。中国の圧力が不十分なことを示していよう。
We think China should adjust its lenient attitude toward North Korea, work with Japan, the United States and South Korea − nations calling for stricter sanctions − and do more to ensure the U.N. Security Council quickly adopts a new resolution.
中国は、北朝鮮への甘い姿勢を改め、「強力な制裁」を求める日米韓と協調して、安保理決議の採択を早急に実現させるべきだ。
There are fears that if North Korea goes ahead with the launch, its missile could fly over the Sakishima islands in Okinawa Prefecture. The government must take every available step to ensure the safety of residents.
ミサイルが発射された場合、沖縄県の先島諸島上空を通過する恐れがある。政府は、国民の安全確保に万全を期さねばならない。
The defense minister has issued a “destructive measures order” to the Self-Defense Forces. Interceptor missiles on Aegis destroyers and Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) surface-to-air guided missile units have been put on alert to shoot down the missile if required. It also will be important to make preparations to ensure early warning information is smoothly conveyed through channels, including the “J-Alert” national instant warning system.
自衛隊には「破壊措置命令」が出されている。イージス艦の迎撃ミサイルと、地対空誘導弾「ＰＡＣ３」で迎撃する態勢をとる。全国瞬時警報システム「Ｊアラート」などを通じ、早期警戒情報を円滑に伝達する準備も重要だ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 4, 2016)
Send North Korea clear message that missile provocation won’t be tolerated
北ミサイル予告 挑発許さぬ意思を明確に示せ
The international community must stand united and ratchet up the pressure on North Korea to deter that nation from advancing its nuclear and missile programs.
北朝鮮の核ミサイル開発を阻止するため、国際社会が結束して圧力を強めねばならない。
North Korea has given notice that it will launch a satellite between Feb. 8 and Feb. 25. Although Pyongyang stubbornly insists the launch is for peaceful purposes, it will actually be a launch of a long-range ballistic missile.
北朝鮮が、２月８〜２５日の間に人工衛星を打ち上げると予告した。平和目的だと強弁するが、事実上の長距離弾道ミサイルの発射だ。
A number of U.N. Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from conducting launches that use ballistic missile technology. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was quite right to demand that North Korea refrain from going through with the launch, saying, “This would constitute a violation of these resolutions and represent a serious provocation to Japan’s security.”
国連安全保障理事会は度重なる決議で、北朝鮮に対し、弾道ミサイル技術を使った発射を禁じている。安倍首相が「決議違反であり、我が国の安全保障上の重大な挑発行為だ」として、自制を求めたのは当然である。
On Jan. 6, North Korea pressed ahead with a nuclear test in violation of Security Council resolutions. Its notification of the planned launch has ratcheted up the threat to regional stability even higher. It is essential that the nations concerned work closely together and send a clear message that the launch is not tolerable.
北朝鮮は１月６日に安保理決議に反して核実験を強行した。発射予告は、地域の安定を一段と脅かすものだ。関係国は緊密に連携し、発射を容認しない意思を明確に打ち出すことが欠かせない。
North Korea has used its nuclear tests to make progress on the miniaturization of a warhead. It is believed to be attempting to boost the capability of its long-range ballistic missiles, including increasing their range, as it seeks to acquire a means to attack the U.S. mainland.
北朝鮮は、核実験で弾頭の小型化を進めている。米本土を攻撃する手段の獲得を目指し、長距離弾道ミサイルの射程延伸など性能向上も図っているとされる。
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un apparently aims to display his achievements to domestic and international audiences before the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea meets in May for its first convention in 36 years. Scheduling the launch for around the time of important events to mark the birthday of Kim’s father − former leader Kim Jong Il − might also be aimed at enhancing that nation’s prestige.
金正恩第１書記には、３６年ぶりとなる５月の朝鮮労働党大会を前に、実績を内外に示す狙いがあるのだろう。父親である金正日総書記の誕生日という重要行事前後に発射を予定するのは、国威発揚につなげるためではないか。
China must step up
It is disconcerting that although almost one month has passed since North Korea conducted a nuclear test, the U.N. Security Council has not yet adopted a sanctions resolution. This is because China has opposed U.S. attempts to impose tough sanctions, including an embargo on shipments of fuel to North Korea.
問題なのは、核実験から１か月近く経過しながら、安保理の制裁決議がいまだに採択されていないことである。米国が燃料類の禁輸など強力な制裁を追求しているのに中国が反対しているからだ。
During his recent visit to China, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called on Beijing to cooperate in imposing sanctions, as it “has a particular ability because of its special role and its connections to North Korea.” However, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi maintained a fundamental argument from start to finish that any new resolution “must not destabilize the Korean Peninsula.”
ケリー国務長官が訪中して「中国は北朝鮮への特別な能力と役割を持っている」と述べ、協力を求めた。だが、王毅外相は「決議で朝鮮半島を不安定化させてはならない」と、原則論に終始した。
China’s reluctance to give sanctions more bite has undeniably allowed North Korea to rattle the region by issuing a notification of the upcoming launch. Pyongyang’s launch announcement came on the day Wu Dawei, China’s special representative for Korean Peninsula Affairs, arrived in North Korea for a visit. This indicates China has not exerted enough pressure on North Korea.
中国が制裁強化に消極的であることが、北朝鮮に発射予告という揺さぶりを許したのは否めまい。北朝鮮は、中国の武大偉・朝鮮半島事務特別代表が訪朝した日に、発射を予告した。中国の圧力が不十分なことを示していよう。
We think China should adjust its lenient attitude toward North Korea, work with Japan, the United States and South Korea − nations calling for stricter sanctions − and do more to ensure the U.N. Security Council quickly adopts a new resolution.
中国は、北朝鮮への甘い姿勢を改め、「強力な制裁」を求める日米韓と協調して、安保理決議の採択を早急に実現させるべきだ。
There are fears that if North Korea goes ahead with the launch, its missile could fly over the Sakishima islands in Okinawa Prefecture. The government must take every available step to ensure the safety of residents.
ミサイルが発射された場合、沖縄県の先島諸島上空を通過する恐れがある。政府は、国民の安全確保に万全を期さねばならない。
The defense minister has issued a “destructive measures order” to the Self-Defense Forces. Interceptor missiles on Aegis destroyers and Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) surface-to-air guided missile units have been put on alert to shoot down the missile if required. It also will be important to make preparations to ensure early warning information is smoothly conveyed through channels, including the “J-Alert” national instant warning system.
自衛隊には「破壊措置命令」が出されている。イージス艦の迎撃ミサイルと、地対空誘導弾「ＰＡＣ３」で迎撃する態勢をとる。全国瞬時警報システム「Ｊアラート」などを通じ、早期警戒情報を円滑に伝達する準備も重要だ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 4, 2016)
2016年02月04日
空自航空団新設 南西諸島防衛の着実な強化を
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Strengthening defense posture around Nansei Islands critical
空自航空団新設 南西諸島防衛の着実な強化を
As Chinese military forces continue to intensify their activities in the East China Sea, it is important to steadily beef up the defense posture around the Nansei Islands.
東シナ海における中国軍の活動が一段と活発化している。南西諸島の防衛体制を着実に強化することが重要である。
The Defense Ministry has newly organized the 9th Air Wing at the Air Self-Defense Force’s Naha Airbase, the nation’s first new air wing in 51 years. After moving one flight squadron from Tsuiki Airbase in Fukuoka Prefecture to Naha, the ASDF has doubled the number of its mainstay F-15 fighters at Naha Airbase from 20 to 40.
防衛省が、航空自衛隊那覇基地に第９航空団を新たに編成した。航空団新設は５１年ぶりだ。福岡県の築城基地から１飛行隊を移し、主力戦闘機Ｆ１５を２０機から４０機に倍増した。
The measures are aimed at dealing with a sharp increase in the number of incidents in which the ASDF has scrambled planes in response to Chinese military aircraft flying close to Japan’s territorial airspace in areas surrounding the Nansei Islands.
南西諸島周辺の領空に接近する中国軍機に対する、自衛隊機の緊急発進（スクランブル）が急増していることに対応するのが目的だ。
In fiscal 2014, the number of such incidents in areas around the islands − mostly involving Chinese military aircraft − totaled 468, marking approximately a 10-fold increase from fiscal 2008.
南西地域で、２０１４年度は４６８回に上った。０８年度の約１０倍で、大半が中国軍機である。
China may be trying to make its air defense identification zone, which Beijing unilaterally declared in the autumn of 2013 over the East China Sea, a fait accompli. The zone includes areas above the Senkaku Islands.
中国には、１３年秋に尖閣諸島上空を含む東シナ海に一方的に設定した、自らの防空識別圏を既成事実化する狙いがあろう。
By beefing up its Naha unit, the ASDF has become able to deploy its planes more expeditiously, while reducing the burdens on its pilots.
空自機の増強により、より機動的な運用が可能となり、パイロットの負担も減る。
The fact that Japan is demonstrating its determination to prevent China from changing the status quo with force and to defend its territorial airspace by properly responding to reconnaissance operations by China’s military aircraft has significant implications.
中国軍機の偵察活動に的確に対応して、中国の力による現状変更を許さず、領空を守る意思を示す意義は大きい。
Naha Airport, which the Self-Defense Forces use jointly with operators of civilian aircraft, has the second-largest number of takeoffs and landings for a single-runway airport in Japan, just after Fukuoka Airport.
自衛隊が民間機と共同利用する那覇空港は、滑走路１本の空港としては福岡空港に次いで航空機の離着陸回数が多い。
It is essential to advance, without delay, work on the second runway at the airport, which is scheduled for concurrent use beginning in 2020.
２０年予定の第２滑走路供用に向け、工事を遅滞なく進めることが欠かせない。
New deployments scheduled
The new guidelines for Japan-U.S. defense cooperation stipulate that the SDF will defend remote islands on its own initiative, while the U.S. forces will play supportive roles.
新たな日米防衛協力指針（ガイドライン）では、自衛隊が離島防衛を主体的に実施し、米軍が補完するという役割分担を定めた。
Based on the guidelines, a 150-strong coastal observation unit will be deployed next month on Yonagunijima island.
これを踏まえ、与那国島に、３月中に１５０人規模の陸上自衛隊の沿岸監視部隊が配備される。
In fiscal 2018, a patrol and missile unit is scheduled to be deployed on Amami-Oshima island and on Miyakojima island. The ministry is considering the deployment of a similar unit on Ishigakijima island, as well. It is important to proceed with the plan, while winning the understanding of local communities.
１８年度には、奄美大島と宮古島に警備・ミサイル部隊を配備する予定だ。石垣島にも同様の部隊配備を検討している。地元の理解を得ながら進めることが大切だ。
There have been a succession of incidents in which Chinese military vessels have sailed close to the Senkaku Islands. And intrusions into Japanese territorial waters near the islands by China Coast Guard vessels continue unabated. In December last year, a China Coast Guard vessel equipped with “gun turrets” was sighted. China is also reportedly building a large vessel in the 10,000-ton class.
尖閣諸島周辺では、中国軍艦船の接近が相次いでいる。海警局公船の領海侵入も後を絶たない。昨年１２月には、「機関砲」の搭載が確認された。１万トン級の大型船も建造されているという。
These developments are linked to a reorganization of the Chinese military, which is shifting its emphasis from ground forces to maritime and air forces. Japan needs to increase its vigilance in the future. It should also be assumed that situations may arise that the Japan Coast Guard cannot deal with alone.
一連の動きは、陸軍から海空軍に重点を移す中国軍の機構改革とも連動している。日本は今後、一層の警戒が必要である。海上保安庁だけでは対処できない事態も想定しておかねばなるまい。
Should a Chinese military vessel intrude into Japan’s territorial waters, the government may issue an order for the Maritime Self-Defense Force to implement maritime patrol operations. It is understandable that the Japanese government has conveyed such a policy to the Chinese side.
中国軍艦船が領海に侵入した場合、海上自衛隊に海上警備行動を発令することがあり得る。日本政府がこうした方針を中国側に伝達したのは、理解できる。
It is a matter of concern that there has been a delay in Japan-China negotiations concerning the establishment of a “maritime liaison mechanism” to prevent accidental clashes between the SDF and Chinese military forces. It is hoped that both countries will intelligently exert themselves to reach an agreement at an early stage.
気がかりなのは、自衛隊と中国軍の衝突を回避する「海上連絡メカニズム」の創設に関する日中協議が遅れていることだ。双方が知恵を絞り、早期に合意したい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 3, 2016)
Strengthening defense posture around Nansei Islands critical
空自航空団新設 南西諸島防衛の着実な強化を
As Chinese military forces continue to intensify their activities in the East China Sea, it is important to steadily beef up the defense posture around the Nansei Islands.
東シナ海における中国軍の活動が一段と活発化している。南西諸島の防衛体制を着実に強化することが重要である。
The Defense Ministry has newly organized the 9th Air Wing at the Air Self-Defense Force’s Naha Airbase, the nation’s first new air wing in 51 years. After moving one flight squadron from Tsuiki Airbase in Fukuoka Prefecture to Naha, the ASDF has doubled the number of its mainstay F-15 fighters at Naha Airbase from 20 to 40.
防衛省が、航空自衛隊那覇基地に第９航空団を新たに編成した。航空団新設は５１年ぶりだ。福岡県の築城基地から１飛行隊を移し、主力戦闘機Ｆ１５を２０機から４０機に倍増した。
The measures are aimed at dealing with a sharp increase in the number of incidents in which the ASDF has scrambled planes in response to Chinese military aircraft flying close to Japan’s territorial airspace in areas surrounding the Nansei Islands.
南西諸島周辺の領空に接近する中国軍機に対する、自衛隊機の緊急発進（スクランブル）が急増していることに対応するのが目的だ。
In fiscal 2014, the number of such incidents in areas around the islands − mostly involving Chinese military aircraft − totaled 468, marking approximately a 10-fold increase from fiscal 2008.
南西地域で、２０１４年度は４６８回に上った。０８年度の約１０倍で、大半が中国軍機である。
China may be trying to make its air defense identification zone, which Beijing unilaterally declared in the autumn of 2013 over the East China Sea, a fait accompli. The zone includes areas above the Senkaku Islands.
中国には、１３年秋に尖閣諸島上空を含む東シナ海に一方的に設定した、自らの防空識別圏を既成事実化する狙いがあろう。
By beefing up its Naha unit, the ASDF has become able to deploy its planes more expeditiously, while reducing the burdens on its pilots.
空自機の増強により、より機動的な運用が可能となり、パイロットの負担も減る。
The fact that Japan is demonstrating its determination to prevent China from changing the status quo with force and to defend its territorial airspace by properly responding to reconnaissance operations by China’s military aircraft has significant implications.
中国軍機の偵察活動に的確に対応して、中国の力による現状変更を許さず、領空を守る意思を示す意義は大きい。
Naha Airport, which the Self-Defense Forces use jointly with operators of civilian aircraft, has the second-largest number of takeoffs and landings for a single-runway airport in Japan, just after Fukuoka Airport.
自衛隊が民間機と共同利用する那覇空港は、滑走路１本の空港としては福岡空港に次いで航空機の離着陸回数が多い。
It is essential to advance, without delay, work on the second runway at the airport, which is scheduled for concurrent use beginning in 2020.
２０年予定の第２滑走路供用に向け、工事を遅滞なく進めることが欠かせない。
New deployments scheduled
The new guidelines for Japan-U.S. defense cooperation stipulate that the SDF will defend remote islands on its own initiative, while the U.S. forces will play supportive roles.
新たな日米防衛協力指針（ガイドライン）では、自衛隊が離島防衛を主体的に実施し、米軍が補完するという役割分担を定めた。
Based on the guidelines, a 150-strong coastal observation unit will be deployed next month on Yonagunijima island.
これを踏まえ、与那国島に、３月中に１５０人規模の陸上自衛隊の沿岸監視部隊が配備される。
In fiscal 2018, a patrol and missile unit is scheduled to be deployed on Amami-Oshima island and on Miyakojima island. The ministry is considering the deployment of a similar unit on Ishigakijima island, as well. It is important to proceed with the plan, while winning the understanding of local communities.
１８年度には、奄美大島と宮古島に警備・ミサイル部隊を配備する予定だ。石垣島にも同様の部隊配備を検討している。地元の理解を得ながら進めることが大切だ。
There have been a succession of incidents in which Chinese military vessels have sailed close to the Senkaku Islands. And intrusions into Japanese territorial waters near the islands by China Coast Guard vessels continue unabated. In December last year, a China Coast Guard vessel equipped with “gun turrets” was sighted. China is also reportedly building a large vessel in the 10,000-ton class.
尖閣諸島周辺では、中国軍艦船の接近が相次いでいる。海警局公船の領海侵入も後を絶たない。昨年１２月には、「機関砲」の搭載が確認された。１万トン級の大型船も建造されているという。
These developments are linked to a reorganization of the Chinese military, which is shifting its emphasis from ground forces to maritime and air forces. Japan needs to increase its vigilance in the future. It should also be assumed that situations may arise that the Japan Coast Guard cannot deal with alone.
一連の動きは、陸軍から海空軍に重点を移す中国軍の機構改革とも連動している。日本は今後、一層の警戒が必要である。海上保安庁だけでは対処できない事態も想定しておかねばなるまい。
Should a Chinese military vessel intrude into Japan’s territorial waters, the government may issue an order for the Maritime Self-Defense Force to implement maritime patrol operations. It is understandable that the Japanese government has conveyed such a policy to the Chinese side.
中国軍艦船が領海に侵入した場合、海上自衛隊に海上警備行動を発令することがあり得る。日本政府がこうした方針を中国側に伝達したのは、理解できる。
It is a matter of concern that there has been a delay in Japan-China negotiations concerning the establishment of a “maritime liaison mechanism” to prevent accidental clashes between the SDF and Chinese military forces. It is hoped that both countries will intelligently exert themselves to reach an agreement at an early stage.
気がかりなのは、自衛隊と中国軍の衝突を回避する「海上連絡メカニズム」の創設に関する日中協議が遅れていることだ。双方が知恵を絞り、早期に合意したい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 3, 2016)
2016年02月03日
シリア和平協議 人道目的の停戦を優先したい
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Syria peace talks must prioritize ceasefire for humanitarian purposes
シリア和平協議 人道目的の停戦を優先したい
Peace talks aimed at ending Syria’s civil war have started in Geneva under the mediation of the United Nations, marking the first such talks in about two years.
シリア内戦の終結に向けた和平協議がジュネーブで始まった。国連の仲介で約２年ぶりだ。
Negotiators will discuss how to implement a road map to establish a new Syrian government that will involve formation of a transitional regime by July and an election in the middle of next year.
７月までの移行政権樹立と来年半ばの選挙を経て、新政権を発足させる行程表の進め方を話し合う。
But a bumpy road is ahead due to the deep-seated mutual distrust between the administration of President Bashar Assad and antigovernment forces. The confrontation between Russia, which supports the Assad regime, and the United States and other countries, which oppose it, casts a shadow over prospects for the talks. It is essential for the international community to support efforts to pressure the parties involved in the conflict to make concessions.
アサド政権と反体制派の相互不信は根強く、道のりは険しい。政権を支援するロシアと、反対する米国などの対立も影を落とす。紛争当事者が歩み寄るよう、国際社会が後押しすることが大切だ。
About 400,000 people are reportedly starving in Syria because food and commodity supplies were cut off due to a siege by hostile forces. Top priority should be given to realizing a ceasefire for humanitarian purposes so food and medicine can be delivered.
シリアには、敵対勢力の包囲で物資の供給が途絶え、飢餓状態に陥った住民が約４０万人いるとされる。食糧や薬などを届ける人道目的の停戦を最優先すべきだ。
The road map was agreed on last November by the United States, Russia and other countries concerned. This is the result of efforts by the international community to curb the influence of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) militant group and stem the outflow of refugees.
行程表は昨年１１月、米露など関係国が合意した。過激派組織「イスラム国」の台頭や難民流出に歯止めをかけようとする国際社会の取り組みの成果と言えよう。
What is worrying is that the parties concerned lack the will to implement the road map.
問題なのは、当事者が履行の意思を欠いていることである。
The Assad regime stepped up air raids against antigovernment forces immediately before the start of peace talks to recapture many strongholds. This was apparently intended to have an advantage in the negotiations.
アサド政権は和平協議直前に反体制派に対する空爆を強化し、多くの拠点を奪還した。交渉を有利に進める狙いだろう。
The rebel groups’ call for a halt to the airstrikes was natural, but the talks are unlikely to go anywhere as long as they stick to their refusal to enter into substantive negotiations until the air raids cease.
反体制派が空爆停止を求めたのは当然としても、実現まで実質協議を拒むというのでは空転は避けられない。
Persistent efforts vital
Representatives from the Assad regime and the opposition camp do not sit at the same negotiation table, making it inevitable for the U.N. special envoy to go back and forth between the two parties to find points of compromise. Such a situation symbolizes the danger that the talks may collapse. It is indispensable for both sides to hold negotiations tenaciously to ensure results.
政権側と反体制派が同席せず、国連特使が双方を行き来して接点を探る。この現状は、協議が決裂しかねない危うさを象徴する。双方が粘り強く交渉の成果を積み上げていくことが欠かせない。
If even a partial truce can be agreed upon, it will contribute to building confidence between the two sides. This will also make it possible for the United States and other countries to concentrate on operations to eradicate ISIL.
部分的な停戦でも合意できれば、信頼が醸成される。米国などが「イスラム国」掃討作戦に集中する効果も期待できる。
ISIL has claimed responsibility for Sunday’s terrorist attack in the suburbs of Damascus that killed more than 70 people. There is a possibility the attack was intended to throw a wrench into the peace talks. Efforts must be made to minimize the impact of the attack.
首都ダマスカス郊外で７０人超が死亡した１月３１日のテロで「イスラム国」が犯行声明を出した。協議の妨害を図った可能性がある。影響を最小限にとどめたい。
Under the road map, how to deal with Assad will be shelved. Washington has virtually changed its demand for his immediate exit in an agonizing decision aimed at dealing with the increasing threat of ISIL.
行程表では、アサド大統領の処遇は、棚上げされる。米国が「即時退陣」の主張を事実上、転換したのは、「イスラム国」の脅威増大による苦渋の決断だろう。
Assad, who has ordered the use of chemical weapons in the civil war, cannot be allowed to remain in power, but there seems to be no suitable candidate to succeed him, which is a serious situation.
内戦で化学兵器を使用したアサド氏の続投は許されないが、退陣後の受け皿がないのは深刻だ。
Lessons must be learned from the series of Arab Spring popular uprisings five years ago, in which long-term autocratic regimes were toppled in Libya and Yemen, producing a power vacuum and triggering civil wars and a spate of terrorism. The United States, Russia and other countries concerned need to cooperate in drawing up a blueprint for establishment of a stable government in Syria.
５年前の民衆蜂起「アラブの春」でリビアやイエメンの長期独裁政権が倒れた後、権力の空白が生じ、テロや内戦を招いた経験を生かさねばならない。米露など関係国は、シリアの安定政権樹立の青写真作りで協力する必要がある。
Turkey, which has seen its relations with Russia plummet, claims that Russian military aircraft intruded into its airspace again, thereby heightening tensions between the two countries. This is not the time for the two countries to engage in a struggle for regional hegemony.
ロシアと対立を深めるトルコは「露軍機が再び領空を侵犯した」と主張し、緊張が高まっている。両者は、地域の覇権争いを続けている場合ではあるまい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 2, 2016)
Syria peace talks must prioritize ceasefire for humanitarian purposes
シリア和平協議 人道目的の停戦を優先したい
Peace talks aimed at ending Syria’s civil war have started in Geneva under the mediation of the United Nations, marking the first such talks in about two years.
シリア内戦の終結に向けた和平協議がジュネーブで始まった。国連の仲介で約２年ぶりだ。
Negotiators will discuss how to implement a road map to establish a new Syrian government that will involve formation of a transitional regime by July and an election in the middle of next year.
７月までの移行政権樹立と来年半ばの選挙を経て、新政権を発足させる行程表の進め方を話し合う。
But a bumpy road is ahead due to the deep-seated mutual distrust between the administration of President Bashar Assad and antigovernment forces. The confrontation between Russia, which supports the Assad regime, and the United States and other countries, which oppose it, casts a shadow over prospects for the talks. It is essential for the international community to support efforts to pressure the parties involved in the conflict to make concessions.
アサド政権と反体制派の相互不信は根強く、道のりは険しい。政権を支援するロシアと、反対する米国などの対立も影を落とす。紛争当事者が歩み寄るよう、国際社会が後押しすることが大切だ。
About 400,000 people are reportedly starving in Syria because food and commodity supplies were cut off due to a siege by hostile forces. Top priority should be given to realizing a ceasefire for humanitarian purposes so food and medicine can be delivered.
シリアには、敵対勢力の包囲で物資の供給が途絶え、飢餓状態に陥った住民が約４０万人いるとされる。食糧や薬などを届ける人道目的の停戦を最優先すべきだ。
The road map was agreed on last November by the United States, Russia and other countries concerned. This is the result of efforts by the international community to curb the influence of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) militant group and stem the outflow of refugees.
行程表は昨年１１月、米露など関係国が合意した。過激派組織「イスラム国」の台頭や難民流出に歯止めをかけようとする国際社会の取り組みの成果と言えよう。
What is worrying is that the parties concerned lack the will to implement the road map.
問題なのは、当事者が履行の意思を欠いていることである。
The Assad regime stepped up air raids against antigovernment forces immediately before the start of peace talks to recapture many strongholds. This was apparently intended to have an advantage in the negotiations.
アサド政権は和平協議直前に反体制派に対する空爆を強化し、多くの拠点を奪還した。交渉を有利に進める狙いだろう。
The rebel groups’ call for a halt to the airstrikes was natural, but the talks are unlikely to go anywhere as long as they stick to their refusal to enter into substantive negotiations until the air raids cease.
反体制派が空爆停止を求めたのは当然としても、実現まで実質協議を拒むというのでは空転は避けられない。
Persistent efforts vital
Representatives from the Assad regime and the opposition camp do not sit at the same negotiation table, making it inevitable for the U.N. special envoy to go back and forth between the two parties to find points of compromise. Such a situation symbolizes the danger that the talks may collapse. It is indispensable for both sides to hold negotiations tenaciously to ensure results.
政権側と反体制派が同席せず、国連特使が双方を行き来して接点を探る。この現状は、協議が決裂しかねない危うさを象徴する。双方が粘り強く交渉の成果を積み上げていくことが欠かせない。
If even a partial truce can be agreed upon, it will contribute to building confidence between the two sides. This will also make it possible for the United States and other countries to concentrate on operations to eradicate ISIL.
部分的な停戦でも合意できれば、信頼が醸成される。米国などが「イスラム国」掃討作戦に集中する効果も期待できる。
ISIL has claimed responsibility for Sunday’s terrorist attack in the suburbs of Damascus that killed more than 70 people. There is a possibility the attack was intended to throw a wrench into the peace talks. Efforts must be made to minimize the impact of the attack.
首都ダマスカス郊外で７０人超が死亡した１月３１日のテロで「イスラム国」が犯行声明を出した。協議の妨害を図った可能性がある。影響を最小限にとどめたい。
Under the road map, how to deal with Assad will be shelved. Washington has virtually changed its demand for his immediate exit in an agonizing decision aimed at dealing with the increasing threat of ISIL.
行程表では、アサド大統領の処遇は、棚上げされる。米国が「即時退陣」の主張を事実上、転換したのは、「イスラム国」の脅威増大による苦渋の決断だろう。
Assad, who has ordered the use of chemical weapons in the civil war, cannot be allowed to remain in power, but there seems to be no suitable candidate to succeed him, which is a serious situation.
内戦で化学兵器を使用したアサド氏の続投は許されないが、退陣後の受け皿がないのは深刻だ。
Lessons must be learned from the series of Arab Spring popular uprisings five years ago, in which long-term autocratic regimes were toppled in Libya and Yemen, producing a power vacuum and triggering civil wars and a spate of terrorism. The United States, Russia and other countries concerned need to cooperate in drawing up a blueprint for establishment of a stable government in Syria.
５年前の民衆蜂起「アラブの春」でリビアやイエメンの長期独裁政権が倒れた後、権力の空白が生じ、テロや内戦を招いた経験を生かさねばならない。米露など関係国は、シリアの安定政権樹立の青写真作りで協力する必要がある。
Turkey, which has seen its relations with Russia plummet, claims that Russian military aircraft intruded into its airspace again, thereby heightening tensions between the two countries. This is not the time for the two countries to engage in a struggle for regional hegemony.
ロシアと対立を深めるトルコは「露軍機が再び領空を侵犯した」と主張し、緊張が高まっている。両者は、地域の覇権争いを続けている場合ではあるまい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 2, 2016)
2016年02月02日
台湾と南シナ海 安定に寄与しない馬氏の訪問
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Ma’s visit to disputed S. China Sea island won’t contribute to stability
台湾と南シナ海 安定に寄与しない馬氏の訪問
The latest visit to a disputed island in the South China Sea was an action that raises concerns among neighboring countries and does not contribute to regional stability.
南シナ海周辺国の懸念を高める行動で、地域の安定には寄与しまい。
Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou visited Taiping Island, the largest islet in the Spratlys. He made the day trip to the island aboard a Taiwan Air Force plane and reportedly encouraged officials and other personnel stationed on the island.
台湾の馬英九総統が、南シナ海のスプラトリー（南沙）諸島で最大の太平島を訪問した。空軍機を使って日帰りで往復し、駐在する当局者らを激励したという。
Taiwan effectively controls Taiping Island, located about 1,600 kilometers from the southern tip of Taiwan. It has built a port for large vessels and a lighthouse.
台湾南部から約１６００キロ離れた太平島は、台湾が実効支配している。これまで大型船が着岸できる埠頭ふとうや灯台を整備してきた。
The likely aim of Ma’s visit was to demonstrate Taiwan’s sovereignty over the island and to show its presence. Vietnam and the Philippines, which both claim sovereignty over the island, objected to the visit, saying it had seriously violated their respective sovereignty over the island. Concerned parties should refrain from taking precipitous action in disputed waters.
台湾の領有権を訴え、存在感を示す狙いがあったのだろう。領有権を主張するベトナムとフィリピンは、「深刻な主権侵害だ」などと反発している。係争海域での軽挙は慎まねばならない。
The situation is getting tense in the South China Sea, as China is proceeding with its efforts to unilaterally change the status quo. It is understandable that the United States has criticized Ma’s visit to the island, saying “it would raise tensions.”
南シナ海は現在、中国が一方的な現状変更を進め、情勢が緊迫している。米国が馬氏の訪問について「緊張を高める行為だ」と批判したのは、もっともである。
Ma has reiterated his call on all countries concerned to accept his South China Sea Peace Initiative, a proposal urging claimants to temporarily shelve their differences over territorial issues and jointly share the resources in the area. But his latest action makes the situation more complex, instead of bringing about regional “peace.”
馬氏は、領有権を棚上げにし、資源の共同利用などを目指す「南シナ海平和イニシアチブ」構想を関係国に改めて呼びかけた。だが、これでは、「平和」どころか、むしろ事態を複雑化させよう。
Ma, who had planned to visit the island in December, refrained from doing so after Washington expressed opposition. Instead, he sent senior administration officials to the island.
昨年１２月にも訪問を計画した馬氏は、米国の反対で政権幹部の派遣にとどめていた。
He went ahead with the visit this time, probably because he wanted it to be considered a political “achievement” as his term of office ends in May.
今回、強行したのは、任期満了が５月に迫る中、自らの政治的な「実績」にするつもりだったのではないか。
China main beneficiary
As his ruling Nationalist Party suffered a major defeat in the presidential and legislative elections last month, Ma may also be aiming to have his administration gain centripetal force in the country.
１月の総統選と立法委員（国会議員）選で与党・国民党が大敗したこともあって、政権の求心力向上にもつなげたいのだろう。
What is problematic is that Ma’s visit benefits China’s efforts to enclose the South China Sea as if it was its own “lake.”
問題なのは、馬氏の訪問が南シナ海を自国の「湖」のように囲い込む中国を利することである。
China claims sovereignty over an almost equal area of waters as Taiwan does in the South China Sea. As Beijing regards Taiwan as “part of China,” Taiwan’s sovereignty claim will sooner or later be linked to China’s interests.
中国は、南シナ海で台湾とほぼ同じ範囲の領有権を主張する。「台湾は中国の一部」が前提のため、台湾の領有権主張はいずれ中国の利益と結びつく。
It is for this reason that China has taken a detached stance this time, saying, “Safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as safeguarding the overall interests of the Chinese nation are the common responsibility and obligation of compatriots across the strait.”
中国が「主権と領土、中華民族の利益を守ることは、両岸（中台）同胞の共同の責任で、義務だ」と静観するのは、そのためだ。
China apparently intends to step up pressure on neighboring countries by forming a “united front” with Taiwan, under the name of the Chinese nation.
中華民族の名の下に台湾と「共闘」して、周辺国に対する圧力を強める意図があるとみられる。
China’s attempt to turn its artificial islands in the South China Sea into military strongholds continues nonstop. At a press conference held following his talks with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stubbornly maintained that China was building “defense facilities” on artificial islands that had nothing to do with militarizing the area.
中国による南シナ海の人工島の軍事拠点化も止まらない。王毅外相はケリー米国務長官との会談後の記者会見で、人工島での「防衛施設」の整備は「『軍事化』とは関係がない」と強弁した。
While shaking “freedom of navigation” on the basis of international law, China attempts to expand its own national interests further. To stem such self-righteous moves on the part of China, it is essential for the international community to cooperate closely, in addition to the continued navigation of U.S. warships near the artificial islands.
国際法に基づく「航行の自由」を揺るがしながら、自国の権益を一段と拡張させようとする。独善的な中国の動きを抑止するには、人工島周辺での米軍艦艇の航行継続に加え、国際社会の緊密な連携が欠かせない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 1, 2016)
Ma’s visit to disputed S. China Sea island won’t contribute to stability
台湾と南シナ海 安定に寄与しない馬氏の訪問
The latest visit to a disputed island in the South China Sea was an action that raises concerns among neighboring countries and does not contribute to regional stability.
南シナ海周辺国の懸念を高める行動で、地域の安定には寄与しまい。
Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou visited Taiping Island, the largest islet in the Spratlys. He made the day trip to the island aboard a Taiwan Air Force plane and reportedly encouraged officials and other personnel stationed on the island.
台湾の馬英九総統が、南シナ海のスプラトリー（南沙）諸島で最大の太平島を訪問した。空軍機を使って日帰りで往復し、駐在する当局者らを激励したという。
Taiwan effectively controls Taiping Island, located about 1,600 kilometers from the southern tip of Taiwan. It has built a port for large vessels and a lighthouse.
台湾南部から約１６００キロ離れた太平島は、台湾が実効支配している。これまで大型船が着岸できる埠頭ふとうや灯台を整備してきた。
The likely aim of Ma’s visit was to demonstrate Taiwan’s sovereignty over the island and to show its presence. Vietnam and the Philippines, which both claim sovereignty over the island, objected to the visit, saying it had seriously violated their respective sovereignty over the island. Concerned parties should refrain from taking precipitous action in disputed waters.
台湾の領有権を訴え、存在感を示す狙いがあったのだろう。領有権を主張するベトナムとフィリピンは、「深刻な主権侵害だ」などと反発している。係争海域での軽挙は慎まねばならない。
The situation is getting tense in the South China Sea, as China is proceeding with its efforts to unilaterally change the status quo. It is understandable that the United States has criticized Ma’s visit to the island, saying “it would raise tensions.”
南シナ海は現在、中国が一方的な現状変更を進め、情勢が緊迫している。米国が馬氏の訪問について「緊張を高める行為だ」と批判したのは、もっともである。
Ma has reiterated his call on all countries concerned to accept his South China Sea Peace Initiative, a proposal urging claimants to temporarily shelve their differences over territorial issues and jointly share the resources in the area. But his latest action makes the situation more complex, instead of bringing about regional “peace.”
馬氏は、領有権を棚上げにし、資源の共同利用などを目指す「南シナ海平和イニシアチブ」構想を関係国に改めて呼びかけた。だが、これでは、「平和」どころか、むしろ事態を複雑化させよう。
Ma, who had planned to visit the island in December, refrained from doing so after Washington expressed opposition. Instead, he sent senior administration officials to the island.
昨年１２月にも訪問を計画した馬氏は、米国の反対で政権幹部の派遣にとどめていた。
He went ahead with the visit this time, probably because he wanted it to be considered a political “achievement” as his term of office ends in May.
今回、強行したのは、任期満了が５月に迫る中、自らの政治的な「実績」にするつもりだったのではないか。
China main beneficiary
As his ruling Nationalist Party suffered a major defeat in the presidential and legislative elections last month, Ma may also be aiming to have his administration gain centripetal force in the country.
１月の総統選と立法委員（国会議員）選で与党・国民党が大敗したこともあって、政権の求心力向上にもつなげたいのだろう。
What is problematic is that Ma’s visit benefits China’s efforts to enclose the South China Sea as if it was its own “lake.”
問題なのは、馬氏の訪問が南シナ海を自国の「湖」のように囲い込む中国を利することである。
China claims sovereignty over an almost equal area of waters as Taiwan does in the South China Sea. As Beijing regards Taiwan as “part of China,” Taiwan’s sovereignty claim will sooner or later be linked to China’s interests.
中国は、南シナ海で台湾とほぼ同じ範囲の領有権を主張する。「台湾は中国の一部」が前提のため、台湾の領有権主張はいずれ中国の利益と結びつく。
It is for this reason that China has taken a detached stance this time, saying, “Safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as safeguarding the overall interests of the Chinese nation are the common responsibility and obligation of compatriots across the strait.”
中国が「主権と領土、中華民族の利益を守ることは、両岸（中台）同胞の共同の責任で、義務だ」と静観するのは、そのためだ。
China apparently intends to step up pressure on neighboring countries by forming a “united front” with Taiwan, under the name of the Chinese nation.
中華民族の名の下に台湾と「共闘」して、周辺国に対する圧力を強める意図があるとみられる。
China’s attempt to turn its artificial islands in the South China Sea into military strongholds continues nonstop. At a press conference held following his talks with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stubbornly maintained that China was building “defense facilities” on artificial islands that had nothing to do with militarizing the area.
中国による南シナ海の人工島の軍事拠点化も止まらない。王毅外相はケリー米国務長官との会談後の記者会見で、人工島での「防衛施設」の整備は「『軍事化』とは関係がない」と強弁した。
While shaking “freedom of navigation” on the basis of international law, China attempts to expand its own national interests further. To stem such self-righteous moves on the part of China, it is essential for the international community to cooperate closely, in addition to the continued navigation of U.S. warships near the artificial islands.
国際法に基づく「航行の自由」を揺るがしながら、自国の権益を一段と拡張させようとする。独善的な中国の動きを抑止するには、人工島周辺での米軍艦艇の航行継続に加え、国際社会の緊密な連携が欠かせない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Feb. 1, 2016)