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2016年01月04日
脅威増す世界 対「イスラム国」で結束強めよ
The Yomiuri Shimbun
International community must solidify its unity against ISIL
脅威増す世界 対「イスラム国」で結束強めよ
◆米主導の秩序をどう維持するか◆
The threat of terrorism stemming from extremism is shaking the U.S.-led international order based on law and democracy.
過激思想によるテロの脅威が、米国主導の法と民主主義に基づく国際秩序を揺さぶっている。
About 25,000 foreign fighters from over 100 countries have joined the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), an extremist group based in Syria and Iraq. There has also been a stream of so-called “homegrown terrorism,” with young people who were raised in the United States or Europe, and influenced by radical beliefs, committing violent acts within their native countries.
シリアとイラクを拠点とする過激派組織「イスラム国」には、１００か国以上の外国人戦闘員約２万５０００人が参加する。感化された欧米の若者が自国で犯行に及ぶ「ホームグロウン・テロ」も続発している。
Terrorism is an issue that is not exclusive to such regions as the Middle East or Europe. It is a challenge that must be addressed by the whole world. The international community must stand together, with the United States taking the lead, to continue fighting a protracted battle.
テロはもはや中東や欧州などの地域にとどまらない。世界全体で取り組むべき課題である。米国を中心に国際社会が結束して、息の長い戦いを続けねばならない。
President must lead
◆次期大統領は指導力を
In the November U.S. presidential election, major points of contention will include Washington’s measures to fight the ISIL, its policy on the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement and its rebalancing to Asia policy. We hope in-depth discussions will be conducted through the election campaigns in a direction that will encourage the United States to take a more leading role.
１１月の米大統領選では、「イスラム国」対策をはじめ、環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）、「アジア重視」政策などが主要な争点になる。選挙戦を通じて、米国がより指導的な役割を果たす方向で議論が深まることを期待したい。
Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the front-runner for the Democratic nomination, has emphasized that “if the United States does not lead, there is not another leader, there is a vacuum and we have to lead.” Her remarks likely express her desire for more U.S. involvement on the diplomatic front.
民主党の候補争いでトップを走るヒラリー・クリントン前国務長官は、「米国以外にリーダーはいない。米国が主導しなければ、力の空白が生まれる」と強調している。外交面で米国の関与を拡大する意欲の表れだろう。
If the United States falls into isolationism, there will be a power vacuum in various parts of the world, as Clinton has asserted, and turmoil will spread around the globe.
米国が孤立主義に陥れば、クリントン氏の主張する通り、世界各地で「力の空白」が生じ、混乱が広がるだけである。
It is a matter of concern that Donald Trump, a real estate giant who aims to win the Republican presidential nomination, has been gaining popularity with his extreme remarks, including a call for banning all Muslims from entering the United States.
懸念されるのは、共和党の大統領候補指名を目指す不動産王ドナルド・トランプ氏が、イスラム教徒の入国禁止案など極端な発言で人気を集めていることだ。
Trump may run out of steam as the presidential race gets into full swing. But the fact that he has so far retained strong support, despite his extreme remarks, may indicate U.S. citizens’ dissatisfaction with the administration of U.S. President Barack Obama.
選挙戦の本格化に伴い、トランプ氏が失速する可能性はある。それでも、根強い支持を保ってきたところに、国民のオバマ政権への不満が見てとれる。
From the bitter lessons learned from the fatalities of U.S. soldiers and increased anti-American sentiment due to the Iraq war, Obama has maintained a policy of not sending large numbers of ground combat troops to areas of conflict. We can understand his belief that long-lasting stability cannot be built in the Middle East just through the power of U.S. forces.
オバマ大統領は、イラク戦争後の米兵の犠牲や反米感情の増大に苦しんだ教訓から、紛争地に大規模な地上戦闘部隊を派遣しない方針を維持してきた。米軍の力だけで中東に長期的な安定は築けないという考えは理解できる。
Ease sectarian strife
◆宗派対立緩和が不可欠
Yet his administration’s measures for wiping out the ISIL have been one step behind. It is questionable that Obama has been deciding to increase U.S. airstrikes and inject special forces every time local situations deteriorate. Washington must build a solid strategy.
だが、「イスラム国」掃討作戦では、対応は後手に回った。現地情勢が悪化するたびに、米軍の空爆拡大や特殊部隊の逐次投入を決めているのは疑問だ。確固とした戦略を構築する必要があろう。
Many countries in the Middle East have seen their turmoil deepen with civil war and sectarian struggles.
中東の多くの国は、内戦や宗派対立で混迷を深めている。
In Syria, it is important to create an environment in which Syrian President Bashar Assad’s government and anti-regime groups reach a truce so the United States, Europe and Russia can concentrate on fighting against ISIL.
シリアでは、アサド政権と反体制派が停戦し、米欧露が「イスラム国」との戦いに集中できる環境を作り出すことが肝要である。
The international agreement that established a road map for a truce and a transition of power should be steadily implemented.
停戦と政権移行の行程を定めた国際合意を着実に履行すべきだ。
ISIL is nothing but a terrorist organization that has borrowed the name of a religion. Decisive action must be taken against its propaganda war, which fans the flames of hatred against Western society through the Internet. ISIL cannot be eradicated without the support of moderate Muslims for the United States and Europe.
「イスラム国」は、宗教に名を借りたテロ集団にほかならない。インターネットを通じて米欧社会への憎悪を煽あおる宣伝戦には断固とした対処が求められる。穏健なイスラム教徒が米欧に協力する構図にしなければ、撲滅できまい。
Iraq, Libya and Yemen share the same problem with Syria − the absence of a government that can control a whole country and unite various religious and ethnic groups allows the emergence of radicals. The international community must help change these situations with diplomatic arbitrations and financial support.
イラクやリビア、イエメンも、シリアと同じ問題を抱える。全土を掌握し、多様な宗派と民族を束ねるような政権の不在が過激派の台頭を許している。国際社会は外交調停や資金支援によって後押しすることが欠かせない。
The United States and Europe will begin to lift economic sanctions against Iran as early as in January, based on their agreement with Tehran on its nuclear development. Iran has influence over Syria and other places, and should be involved in the process of stabilizing the Middle East. Countries concerned should also keep an eye on Iran so Tehran will not violate the nuclear accord.
イランでは核開発問題に関する合意に伴い、今月にも米欧の経済制裁解除が始まる。シリア情勢などに影響力を持つイランを引き込み、中東の安定につなげたい。核合意が破られないよう、関係国が監視を続けることも大切である。
Russia is supporting the Assad government and heightening its military intervention in Syria. Russia is still at odds with Turkey, which shot down a Russian military plane.
ロシアはアサド政権を支援し、シリアへの軍事介入を強めている。露軍機を撃墜したトルコと対立したままだ。
Moscow is increasingly making its annexation of Crimea a fait accompli, and the ceasefire agreement between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia militants in the eastern part of Ukraine is not being observed.
ロシアのクリミア併合は既成事実化が進む。ウクライナ東部の政府軍と親露派武装勢力の停戦合意も順守されていない。
Despite economic sanctions by the United States and Europe on Russia, President Vladimir Putin maintains his tough stance. He probably aims to challenge the U.S.-led international order. His attempt to change the status quo with military power should not be tolerated any longer.
米欧の経済制裁にもかかわらず、プーチン大統領が強硬姿勢を貫くのは、米国が主導する国際秩序に挑戦する狙いがあるからではないか。軍事力による現状変更をこのまま許してはならない。
Measures for refugees
◆難民対応が重い課題だ
The European Union is facing a challenge. The number of refugees and immigrants flowing into that region from Africa and the Middle East has exceeded 1 million. Some of the perpetrators of the terrorist attacks in Paris have disguised themselves as refugees to enter Europe.
欧州連合（ＥＵ）は試練に直面している。中東、アフリカなどから流入した難民と移民は、１００万人を超えた。パリ同時テロでは犯行グループの一部が難民に紛れて入り込んでいた。
Opposition to accepting refugees is spreading in East European and other countries. How can the EU strike a balance between its ideal of European integration and maintaining security? The refugee issue presents an enormous challenge to the EU.
東欧を中心に、難民受け入れに対する反発が広がっている。欧州統合というＥＵの理念と治安維持をどう両立するか、重い課題が突きつけられたと言えよう。
The EU is discussing with other entities the creation of an organization to guard its borders with countries outside the EU. It is urgent for the EU to regain the public’s trust regarding security maintenance, with thorough enforcement of border controls with countries outside the region.
ＥＵが主体となって域外との国境を警備する組織の創設が検討されている。域外国との国境管理の徹底を通じて、治安への信頼を取り戻すことが急務だ。
A huge number of refugees is expected to flow into Europe this year as well, so the support of the international community in that regard is essential. Japan should keep making contributions such as humanitarian assistance to Europe.
欧州には、今年も難民の大量流入が予想される。国際社会全体の支援が不可欠だ。日本も人道援助などで貢献を続けたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 3, 2016)
International community must solidify its unity against ISIL
脅威増す世界 対「イスラム国」で結束強めよ
◆米主導の秩序をどう維持するか◆
The threat of terrorism stemming from extremism is shaking the U.S.-led international order based on law and democracy.
過激思想によるテロの脅威が、米国主導の法と民主主義に基づく国際秩序を揺さぶっている。
About 25,000 foreign fighters from over 100 countries have joined the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), an extremist group based in Syria and Iraq. There has also been a stream of so-called “homegrown terrorism,” with young people who were raised in the United States or Europe, and influenced by radical beliefs, committing violent acts within their native countries.
シリアとイラクを拠点とする過激派組織「イスラム国」には、１００か国以上の外国人戦闘員約２万５０００人が参加する。感化された欧米の若者が自国で犯行に及ぶ「ホームグロウン・テロ」も続発している。
Terrorism is an issue that is not exclusive to such regions as the Middle East or Europe. It is a challenge that must be addressed by the whole world. The international community must stand together, with the United States taking the lead, to continue fighting a protracted battle.
テロはもはや中東や欧州などの地域にとどまらない。世界全体で取り組むべき課題である。米国を中心に国際社会が結束して、息の長い戦いを続けねばならない。
President must lead
◆次期大統領は指導力を
In the November U.S. presidential election, major points of contention will include Washington’s measures to fight the ISIL, its policy on the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement and its rebalancing to Asia policy. We hope in-depth discussions will be conducted through the election campaigns in a direction that will encourage the United States to take a more leading role.
１１月の米大統領選では、「イスラム国」対策をはじめ、環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）、「アジア重視」政策などが主要な争点になる。選挙戦を通じて、米国がより指導的な役割を果たす方向で議論が深まることを期待したい。
Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the front-runner for the Democratic nomination, has emphasized that “if the United States does not lead, there is not another leader, there is a vacuum and we have to lead.” Her remarks likely express her desire for more U.S. involvement on the diplomatic front.
民主党の候補争いでトップを走るヒラリー・クリントン前国務長官は、「米国以外にリーダーはいない。米国が主導しなければ、力の空白が生まれる」と強調している。外交面で米国の関与を拡大する意欲の表れだろう。
If the United States falls into isolationism, there will be a power vacuum in various parts of the world, as Clinton has asserted, and turmoil will spread around the globe.
米国が孤立主義に陥れば、クリントン氏の主張する通り、世界各地で「力の空白」が生じ、混乱が広がるだけである。
It is a matter of concern that Donald Trump, a real estate giant who aims to win the Republican presidential nomination, has been gaining popularity with his extreme remarks, including a call for banning all Muslims from entering the United States.
懸念されるのは、共和党の大統領候補指名を目指す不動産王ドナルド・トランプ氏が、イスラム教徒の入国禁止案など極端な発言で人気を集めていることだ。
Trump may run out of steam as the presidential race gets into full swing. But the fact that he has so far retained strong support, despite his extreme remarks, may indicate U.S. citizens’ dissatisfaction with the administration of U.S. President Barack Obama.
選挙戦の本格化に伴い、トランプ氏が失速する可能性はある。それでも、根強い支持を保ってきたところに、国民のオバマ政権への不満が見てとれる。
From the bitter lessons learned from the fatalities of U.S. soldiers and increased anti-American sentiment due to the Iraq war, Obama has maintained a policy of not sending large numbers of ground combat troops to areas of conflict. We can understand his belief that long-lasting stability cannot be built in the Middle East just through the power of U.S. forces.
オバマ大統領は、イラク戦争後の米兵の犠牲や反米感情の増大に苦しんだ教訓から、紛争地に大規模な地上戦闘部隊を派遣しない方針を維持してきた。米軍の力だけで中東に長期的な安定は築けないという考えは理解できる。
Ease sectarian strife
◆宗派対立緩和が不可欠
Yet his administration’s measures for wiping out the ISIL have been one step behind. It is questionable that Obama has been deciding to increase U.S. airstrikes and inject special forces every time local situations deteriorate. Washington must build a solid strategy.
だが、「イスラム国」掃討作戦では、対応は後手に回った。現地情勢が悪化するたびに、米軍の空爆拡大や特殊部隊の逐次投入を決めているのは疑問だ。確固とした戦略を構築する必要があろう。
Many countries in the Middle East have seen their turmoil deepen with civil war and sectarian struggles.
中東の多くの国は、内戦や宗派対立で混迷を深めている。
In Syria, it is important to create an environment in which Syrian President Bashar Assad’s government and anti-regime groups reach a truce so the United States, Europe and Russia can concentrate on fighting against ISIL.
シリアでは、アサド政権と反体制派が停戦し、米欧露が「イスラム国」との戦いに集中できる環境を作り出すことが肝要である。
The international agreement that established a road map for a truce and a transition of power should be steadily implemented.
停戦と政権移行の行程を定めた国際合意を着実に履行すべきだ。
ISIL is nothing but a terrorist organization that has borrowed the name of a religion. Decisive action must be taken against its propaganda war, which fans the flames of hatred against Western society through the Internet. ISIL cannot be eradicated without the support of moderate Muslims for the United States and Europe.
「イスラム国」は、宗教に名を借りたテロ集団にほかならない。インターネットを通じて米欧社会への憎悪を煽あおる宣伝戦には断固とした対処が求められる。穏健なイスラム教徒が米欧に協力する構図にしなければ、撲滅できまい。
Iraq, Libya and Yemen share the same problem with Syria − the absence of a government that can control a whole country and unite various religious and ethnic groups allows the emergence of radicals. The international community must help change these situations with diplomatic arbitrations and financial support.
イラクやリビア、イエメンも、シリアと同じ問題を抱える。全土を掌握し、多様な宗派と民族を束ねるような政権の不在が過激派の台頭を許している。国際社会は外交調停や資金支援によって後押しすることが欠かせない。
The United States and Europe will begin to lift economic sanctions against Iran as early as in January, based on their agreement with Tehran on its nuclear development. Iran has influence over Syria and other places, and should be involved in the process of stabilizing the Middle East. Countries concerned should also keep an eye on Iran so Tehran will not violate the nuclear accord.
イランでは核開発問題に関する合意に伴い、今月にも米欧の経済制裁解除が始まる。シリア情勢などに影響力を持つイランを引き込み、中東の安定につなげたい。核合意が破られないよう、関係国が監視を続けることも大切である。
Russia is supporting the Assad government and heightening its military intervention in Syria. Russia is still at odds with Turkey, which shot down a Russian military plane.
ロシアはアサド政権を支援し、シリアへの軍事介入を強めている。露軍機を撃墜したトルコと対立したままだ。
Moscow is increasingly making its annexation of Crimea a fait accompli, and the ceasefire agreement between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia militants in the eastern part of Ukraine is not being observed.
ロシアのクリミア併合は既成事実化が進む。ウクライナ東部の政府軍と親露派武装勢力の停戦合意も順守されていない。
Despite economic sanctions by the United States and Europe on Russia, President Vladimir Putin maintains his tough stance. He probably aims to challenge the U.S.-led international order. His attempt to change the status quo with military power should not be tolerated any longer.
米欧の経済制裁にもかかわらず、プーチン大統領が強硬姿勢を貫くのは、米国が主導する国際秩序に挑戦する狙いがあるからではないか。軍事力による現状変更をこのまま許してはならない。
Measures for refugees
◆難民対応が重い課題だ
The European Union is facing a challenge. The number of refugees and immigrants flowing into that region from Africa and the Middle East has exceeded 1 million. Some of the perpetrators of the terrorist attacks in Paris have disguised themselves as refugees to enter Europe.
欧州連合（ＥＵ）は試練に直面している。中東、アフリカなどから流入した難民と移民は、１００万人を超えた。パリ同時テロでは犯行グループの一部が難民に紛れて入り込んでいた。
Opposition to accepting refugees is spreading in East European and other countries. How can the EU strike a balance between its ideal of European integration and maintaining security? The refugee issue presents an enormous challenge to the EU.
東欧を中心に、難民受け入れに対する反発が広がっている。欧州統合というＥＵの理念と治安維持をどう両立するか、重い課題が突きつけられたと言えよう。
The EU is discussing with other entities the creation of an organization to guard its borders with countries outside the EU. It is urgent for the EU to regain the public’s trust regarding security maintenance, with thorough enforcement of border controls with countries outside the region.
ＥＵが主体となって域外との国境を警備する組織の創設が検討されている。域外国との国境管理の徹底を通じて、治安への信頼を取り戻すことが急務だ。
A huge number of refugees is expected to flow into Europe this year as well, so the support of the international community in that regard is essential. Japan should keep making contributions such as humanitarian assistance to Europe.
欧州には、今年も難民の大量流入が予想される。国際社会全体の支援が不可欠だ。日本も人道援助などで貢献を続けたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 3, 2016)
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2016年01月03日
中国大気汚染 環境改善を遅らせる強権統治
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Iron-fisted rule of Chinese govt causes delays in fighting air pollution
中国大気汚染 環境改善を遅らせる強権統治
China’s air pollution can be described as a due consequence of the nation’s efforts to achieve economic growth at any cost, combined with delays in improving the situation as a result of the Chinese Communist Party’s one-party dictatorship established to rule the country with an iron fist.
成長至上主義のツケに加えて、中国共産党の一党独裁による強権統治が事態の改善を遅らせていると言えよう。
Many parts of China are experiencing serious air contamination. In December, Beijing’s municipal authorities issued red alerts twice, signaling the worst-level pollution in the city.
中国各地が深刻な大気汚染に見舞われている。北京市当局は今月、２度にわたって、最悪レベルの汚染を示す「赤色警報」を発令した。
In some sections of Beijing, the density of fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, known as PM2.5, topped 700 micrograms per cubic meter − 20 times greater than the level set in Japan’s environmental standards.
北京の一部地域では、直径２・５マイクロ・メートル以下の微小粒子状物質（ＰＭ２・５）の濃度が１立方メートルあたり日本の環境基準の２０倍に相当する７００マイクロ・グラムを超えた。
The red alerts were kept in place for about seven days, during which emergency measures were enforced, including traffic restrictions aimed at nearly halving the passage of vehicles and a halt in the operation of factories. There also are concerns about the adverse effects incurred on the Japanese community in the city. The school for local Japanese students was temporarily closed, while Japanese corporations switched to work-at-home operations during the period.
警報期間中の計約７日間、通行車両をほぼ半減させる交通規制や工場の稼働停止などの緊急措置をとった。日本人学校が休校し、日系企業が在宅勤務に切り替わるなど邦人社会への影響も心配だ。
Forcible traffic controls were also enforced during a summit meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in the autumn of 2014 and a military parade in September.
強引な交通規制などは、昨秋のアジア太平洋経済協力会議（ＡＰＥＣ）首脳会議や今年９月の軍事パレードでも実施された。
We feel the restrictions may have been intended, first and foremost, to save face for Chinese President Xi Jinping’s administration during these important events. Just repeating such ad hoc measures will do little to fundamentally resolve the problem.
重要行事の際に、習近平政権のメンツを保つのが最大の目的だったのではないか。こうした場当たりな対応を繰り返すだけでは、抜本的解決は図れまい。
The cause of China’s worsening air pollution is such pollutants as sooty smoke from combusted coal and exhaust from automobiles powered by low-quality gasoline. Long-term, persistent anti-pollution efforts are indispensable for rectifying the situation.
大気汚染悪化の原因は、石炭を燃やす際に生じる煤煙ばいえんや低品質のガソリンを使った自動車の排ガスなどだ。改善には、長期的で粘り強い取り組みが欠かせない。
Words don’t match actions
The Chinese government has expressed its readiness to attach great importance to the fight against environmental problems, including a plan to enforce the revised air pollution prevention law early in the new year.
政権は、改正大気汚染防止法を年明けに施行するなど環境対策を重視する姿勢は示している。
China has proclaimed it will stand by the rule of law, but the independence of the judiciary is nowhere to be seen in that country. The swift disclosure of information is indispensable in this respect, but provincial government bureaucrats, by and large, have little awareness of what should be done. They also have an extremely strong tendency to cover up inconvenient things.
だが、中国では「法治」を掲げながら、「司法の独立」はない。迅速な情報公開が不可欠にもかかわらず、地方官僚の意識は概おおむね低く、隠蔽体質も甚だしい。
It may be difficult to reform the collusive relations between corporations and regional authorities, as priority is given to economic interests and consequently aggravates the spread of pollution.
経済的な利益を優先し、汚染の蔓延まんえんを助長してきた地方当局と企業の癒着の構造にメスを入れるのは難しいだろう。
In the spring of 2015, steps were taken to make it impossible to watch an Internet video that had caused a stir by denouncing the authorities over the air pollution problem. It is important for nongovernmental organizations and the media to keep watch on corporations. However, the fact is that the Chinese government is increasing restrictions on NGOs and news organs.
今春、大気汚染を巡って当局を告発し、大反響を呼んだインターネット動画は閲覧不能になった。民間活動団体（ＮＧＯ）やメディアによる企業に対する監視が重要だが、政権はむしろＮＧＯや報道への締め付けを強めている。
If the current situation goes unchecked, China’s pledge to curtail greenhouse gas emissions in the anti-global warming fight could be reduced to an empty slogan.
このままでは、地球温暖化問題を巡って表明した温室効果ガス削減の公約すら、そらぞらしい。
The Xi administration has said it will pursue the goal of transforming the country, by the end of 2020, into a “society with breathing space,” in which people feel somewhat comfortably off. In trying to achieve this objective, there is a pressing need for China to make all-out environmental efforts, to say nothing of the need to improve the living standards of its people.
習政権は２０２０年までに、いくらかゆとりのある「小康社会」の構築を目標に掲げている。実現には、国民の生活水準の向上は無論、環境対策の徹底が急務だ。
China’s air pollution cannot be treated as having nothing to do with Japan. PM2.5 and other pollutants come flying into our nation, carried by the prevailing westerlies. Japan must continue to promote environmental cooperation with China while at the same time urging that nation to become serious about addressing the problem.
中国の大気汚染は日本にとってもひとごとではない。ＰＭ２・５などが偏西風に乗って飛来している。日本は環境協力を進める一方、中国が対応に本腰を入れるよう促し続けねばならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 31, 2015)
Iron-fisted rule of Chinese govt causes delays in fighting air pollution
中国大気汚染 環境改善を遅らせる強権統治
China’s air pollution can be described as a due consequence of the nation’s efforts to achieve economic growth at any cost, combined with delays in improving the situation as a result of the Chinese Communist Party’s one-party dictatorship established to rule the country with an iron fist.
成長至上主義のツケに加えて、中国共産党の一党独裁による強権統治が事態の改善を遅らせていると言えよう。
Many parts of China are experiencing serious air contamination. In December, Beijing’s municipal authorities issued red alerts twice, signaling the worst-level pollution in the city.
中国各地が深刻な大気汚染に見舞われている。北京市当局は今月、２度にわたって、最悪レベルの汚染を示す「赤色警報」を発令した。
In some sections of Beijing, the density of fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, known as PM2.5, topped 700 micrograms per cubic meter − 20 times greater than the level set in Japan’s environmental standards.
北京の一部地域では、直径２・５マイクロ・メートル以下の微小粒子状物質（ＰＭ２・５）の濃度が１立方メートルあたり日本の環境基準の２０倍に相当する７００マイクロ・グラムを超えた。
The red alerts were kept in place for about seven days, during which emergency measures were enforced, including traffic restrictions aimed at nearly halving the passage of vehicles and a halt in the operation of factories. There also are concerns about the adverse effects incurred on the Japanese community in the city. The school for local Japanese students was temporarily closed, while Japanese corporations switched to work-at-home operations during the period.
警報期間中の計約７日間、通行車両をほぼ半減させる交通規制や工場の稼働停止などの緊急措置をとった。日本人学校が休校し、日系企業が在宅勤務に切り替わるなど邦人社会への影響も心配だ。
Forcible traffic controls were also enforced during a summit meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in the autumn of 2014 and a military parade in September.
強引な交通規制などは、昨秋のアジア太平洋経済協力会議（ＡＰＥＣ）首脳会議や今年９月の軍事パレードでも実施された。
We feel the restrictions may have been intended, first and foremost, to save face for Chinese President Xi Jinping’s administration during these important events. Just repeating such ad hoc measures will do little to fundamentally resolve the problem.
重要行事の際に、習近平政権のメンツを保つのが最大の目的だったのではないか。こうした場当たりな対応を繰り返すだけでは、抜本的解決は図れまい。
The cause of China’s worsening air pollution is such pollutants as sooty smoke from combusted coal and exhaust from automobiles powered by low-quality gasoline. Long-term, persistent anti-pollution efforts are indispensable for rectifying the situation.
大気汚染悪化の原因は、石炭を燃やす際に生じる煤煙ばいえんや低品質のガソリンを使った自動車の排ガスなどだ。改善には、長期的で粘り強い取り組みが欠かせない。
Words don’t match actions
The Chinese government has expressed its readiness to attach great importance to the fight against environmental problems, including a plan to enforce the revised air pollution prevention law early in the new year.
政権は、改正大気汚染防止法を年明けに施行するなど環境対策を重視する姿勢は示している。
China has proclaimed it will stand by the rule of law, but the independence of the judiciary is nowhere to be seen in that country. The swift disclosure of information is indispensable in this respect, but provincial government bureaucrats, by and large, have little awareness of what should be done. They also have an extremely strong tendency to cover up inconvenient things.
だが、中国では「法治」を掲げながら、「司法の独立」はない。迅速な情報公開が不可欠にもかかわらず、地方官僚の意識は概おおむね低く、隠蔽体質も甚だしい。
It may be difficult to reform the collusive relations between corporations and regional authorities, as priority is given to economic interests and consequently aggravates the spread of pollution.
経済的な利益を優先し、汚染の蔓延まんえんを助長してきた地方当局と企業の癒着の構造にメスを入れるのは難しいだろう。
In the spring of 2015, steps were taken to make it impossible to watch an Internet video that had caused a stir by denouncing the authorities over the air pollution problem. It is important for nongovernmental organizations and the media to keep watch on corporations. However, the fact is that the Chinese government is increasing restrictions on NGOs and news organs.
今春、大気汚染を巡って当局を告発し、大反響を呼んだインターネット動画は閲覧不能になった。民間活動団体（ＮＧＯ）やメディアによる企業に対する監視が重要だが、政権はむしろＮＧＯや報道への締め付けを強めている。
If the current situation goes unchecked, China’s pledge to curtail greenhouse gas emissions in the anti-global warming fight could be reduced to an empty slogan.
このままでは、地球温暖化問題を巡って表明した温室効果ガス削減の公約すら、そらぞらしい。
The Xi administration has said it will pursue the goal of transforming the country, by the end of 2020, into a “society with breathing space,” in which people feel somewhat comfortably off. In trying to achieve this objective, there is a pressing need for China to make all-out environmental efforts, to say nothing of the need to improve the living standards of its people.
習政権は２０２０年までに、いくらかゆとりのある「小康社会」の構築を目標に掲げている。実現には、国民の生活水準の向上は無論、環境対策の徹底が急務だ。
China’s air pollution cannot be treated as having nothing to do with Japan. PM2.5 and other pollutants come flying into our nation, carried by the prevailing westerlies. Japan must continue to promote environmental cooperation with China while at the same time urging that nation to become serious about addressing the problem.
中国の大気汚染は日本にとってもひとごとではない。ＰＭ２・５などが偏西風に乗って飛来している。日本は環境協力を進める一方、中国が対応に本腰を入れるよう促し続けねばならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 31, 2015)
2016年01月01日
世界の安定へ重い日本の責務
The Yomiuri Shimbun
2016: Japan must fulfill its duties to ensure world stability
世界の安定へ重い日本の責務
◆成長戦略を一層強力に進めたい
How do we restore stability to the international order? The world is now facing a critical challenge.
国際秩序の安定をどう取り戻すか。世界は今、大きな試練に直面している。
The indiscriminate terrorist attacks in Paris by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) extremist group caused great distress to international community. In reaction to the wave of terrorism and the huge influx of refugees from the Middle East, exclusionary moves are gaining momentum in Europe and in the United States.
過激派組織「イスラム国」によるパリでの無差別テロは、国際社会に大きな衝撃を与えた。テロの拡散と、中東からの難民の激増を受けて、欧州や米国で排他的な動きが強まっている。
Attempts to change the status quo by force are rampant as Russia’s annexation of Crimea continues and China continues to build military strongholds on artificial islands in the South China Sea.
ロシアのクリミア併合は長期化し、中国が南シナ海で人工島の軍事拠点化を進めるなど、力による現状変更の試みもやまない。
The world looks as if it is going to fall apart as freedom, equality, rule of law and other values that should be deemed as common falter. If the international order collapses, Japan’s security also will be threatened. We need to be more aware of impending crises and confront the threats squarely.
自由や平等、法の支配といった共通であるべき価値観が揺らぎ、世界は分断へと向かっているかのようだ。国際秩序が崩壊すれば日本の安全も脅かされる。危機感を強めて向き合わねばならない。
A presidential election will be held in the United States this year. The country’s leadership will be on the wane. Japan, under such circumstances, will host the Group of Seven summit (Ise-Shima summit) and also become a nonpermanent member of the U.N. Security Council. Responsibilities heavier than ever before will be thrust upon Japan to help unite international community and coordinate varying interests.
米国が大統領選を迎え、指導力が低下する今年、日本は主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）を主催し、国連安全保障理事会の非常任理事国に就任する。国際社会の結束や利害調整に、これまでにない重い責務が課される。
Domestically, it has the urgent task of boosting economic growth as the population dwindles. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s administration, along with its initiative to promote “a society that enables the dynamic engagement of all citizens,” will face the judgment of voters in the House of Councillors election in summer. A plan to further ensure economic recovery should be initiated.
国内では、人口減少が進む中で成長力の底上げが急務だ。「１億総活躍社会」を掲げる安倍政権は、今夏、参院選で有権者の審判を受ける。経済再生をより確かにする道筋を示す必要がある。
To brighten the future of Japan in a tumultuous world, we hope this will be a year of progress.
鳴動する世界の中で、日本の未来を明るいものにするため、歩を進める年にしたい。
‘Antiterrorism’ unity urgent
◆「対テロ」連携が急務だ
Young people and others who sympathize with the extremist ideas of ISIL are wounding and killing defenseless people around them. Terrorist acts have spread around the world. Fear is inducing actions to eliminate anything that is foreign.
「イスラム国」の過激思想に同調した若者らが、周囲の無防備な市民を殺傷するテロが世界に広がった。恐怖が、異質なものを排除する動きにつながっている。
Within the boundaries of the European Union, border inspections are being reinstalled one after another − contrary to the Schengen Agreement, which in principle states that such inspections are unnecessary. The idea of free movement of persons, a cornerstone of European integration, is wavering.
欧州連合（ＥＵ）では、国境検査を不要とするシェンゲン協定の原則に反し、検査を復活する動きが相次ぐ。統合理念である「人の移動の自由」が揺らいでいる。
Even in the United States, a nation of immigrants, an undercurrent of refusing the entry of refugees and Muslims has gained strength.
移民国家である米国でも、難民やイスラム教徒の受け入れを拒絶する空気が勢いを増した。
If the movement of people, goods and capital across borders is threatened, this could indeed become a destabilizing factor for the world economy.
人、モノ、資金の国境を越えた移動が脅かされれば、世界経済の不安定要因ともなる。
The world does not have a future unless we are victorious in the “war on terror” to eliminate the threat posed by ISIL and contain acts of violence.
「イスラム国」の脅威を除去し、暴力行為を封じ込める「テロとの戦い」に勝利しなければ、世界の未来はない。
The Syrian civil war is the epicenter of all this. The United States, European nations, Russia, Turkey and other countries involved should coordinate efforts swiftly with regard to military operations and transition of power.
震源地であるシリアの内戦終結へ、米欧露、トルコなど関係国は、軍事作戦と体制移行をめぐる協調を急ぐべきだ。
ISIL has declared that Japan is also a terrorism target.
「イスラム国」は日本もテロの標的だと明言している。
With the upcoming summit in mind, antiterrorist measures within Japan’s boundaries are inadequate. If information-gathering on extremist groups and steps taken to prevent terrorism based on such information are inadequate, Japan will end up as the weakest link in international efforts to fight terrorism.
サミットを控えた国内テロ対策には不安が残る。過激組織の情報収集や、集めた情報に基づいてテロを未然に防ぐ手だてが不十分では、日本が対テロの国際的連携の空白地帯になってしまう。
The legal system should be inspected for any flaws and revamped to fulfill Japan’s political responsibilities.
法制度に不備がないか点検し、改善するのが政治の責務だ。
China’s maritime territorial claims in the South China Sea are baseless under international law. However, they are aiming to make these claims a fait accompli. Actions that threaten the safety of the sea line of communication are contrary to the interests of international community.
中国は南シナ海で、国際法上の根拠のない領海主張の既成事実化を図っている。海上交通路（シーレーン）の安全を脅かす行為は国際社会の利益に反する。
To rein in such moves, the United States has sent warships to areas surrounding the artificial islands and engaged in other operations.
米国は人工島周辺の艦艇航行などによる牽制けんせいに踏み出した。
It is necessary for Japan, Australia, India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to further strengthen cooperation and use every opportunity including international forums to demand that China restrain itself.
日豪印や東南アジア諸国連合（ＡＳＥＡＮ）も連帯を強め、国際会議などあらゆる場面で中国に自制を求める行動を続ける必要がある。
In order to counter Chinese pressure in areas surrounding the Senkaku Islands, the security-related laws must be implemented properly to enhance the deterrent powers of the Japan-U.S. alliance.
尖閣諸島周辺などでの中国の圧力に抗するには、安全保障関連法を適切に運用し、日米同盟の抑止力を高めねばならない。
Make good use of security laws
◆安保法制の有効運用を
China, the world’s second-largest economic power, is currently experiencing a worsening business slowdown.
世界２位の経済大国でもある中国の景気は減速を強めている。
The state of affairs could disturb the world due to such factors as a drop in resource prices. Developed nations − including Britain and Germany, both of which are becoming closer to China in economic terms − should make concerted efforts to cope with the situation. In pursuit of that goal, these countries should urge China to trim excessive production capacity and promote other structural reforms.
資源価格の下落などを通じて世界を混乱させかねない。中国経済への接近を強める英独も含め、先進国が足並みをそろえて、過剰な生産能力の解消など、構造改革を中国に促していくべきだ。
In addressing issues such as those related to North Korea’s nuclear weapons and missiles and the Ukraine situation, Japan should also strive to form a consensus among pertinent nations at the summit meeting and U.N. conferences.
北朝鮮の核・ミサイル問題、ウクライナ情勢などをめぐっても、日本はサミットや国連の場で、関係国の合意形成に努めたい。
Three years have passed since the inauguration of the second administration of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Despite corporations’ improved business performance and higher stock prices, the sentiment that the economy has improved has not prevailed. As circumstances stand now, little headway is being made in efforts to achieve economic revitalization through the Abenomics economic policy.
第２次安倍政権の発足から３年がたった。企業業績や株価は上昇したが、景気回復の実感は広がらない。「アベノミクス」による経済再生は足踏み状態にある。
The root of this situation is clear. The government’s growth strategy has not yet fully worked to fight a decline in the nation’s potential growth rate due to a population decrease.
原因は、はっきりしている。人口減少に伴う潜在成長率の低下に対抗する成長戦略が、まだ十分に効果を発揮していないためだ。
The prime minister has unveiled a fresh set of policy targets dubbed the “new three arrows,” the first of which will seek to raise our nation’s gross domestic product to \600 trillion in nominal terms. Reinforcing the growth policy is the only way to achieve that goal.
安倍首相は新政策目標「新３本の矢」を打ち出し、１本目に「名目ＧＤＰ（国内総生産）６００兆円」を掲げた。実現には成長政策を一段と強めるしか道はない。
Required measures include promoting deregulation in the fields of medical and nursing care services, agriculture and others. Efforts should be made to ensure that technological advancement in such fields as information technology and robotics lead to further industrial development. It is also necessary to make the most of a broad agreement reached in multilateral talks over the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade pact last year.
医療・介護、農業などの分野で規制緩和を進める。ＩＴ、ロボットなどの技術進歩を産業振興につなげる。昨年、大筋合意に達した環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）を最大限に活用する。
The measures hammered out up to now should be reinforced to ensure that their purposes are better served.
今までに打ち出された施策を深化させ、実効性を高めたい。
Another case in point is how to make efficient use of such resources as household financial assets totaling a hefty \1.7 quadrillion and internal reserves worth \350 trillion kept at corporations. The question is whether there are any ways to better use these resources for the pursuit of growth. It is necessary to exercise wisdom in devising bold new policy measures.
さらに、約１７００兆円に上る家計の金融資産や、３５０兆円に達した企業の内部留保などを、もっと成長に生かすための手段はないか。大胆で新しい政策に知恵を絞ることも重要だ。
It has been about 25 years since the collapse of the bubble economy. Under protracted deflation, households and corporations became strongly negative about spending money, a state of mind that is firmly entrenched among them. Few households are willing to increase consumption, despite expanded employment and higher wages. Meanwhile, corporations remain cautious about investment, notwithstanding their success in generating profits at record high levels.
バブル経済の崩壊から約２５年。長いデフレ下で家計や企業に染みついた後ろ向きの心理状態は、なお根深いものがある。雇用や賃金が増えても、家計は消費を増やさない。企業は過去最高水準の利益を上げても投資に慎重だ。
Dispel fear of spending
◆家計と企業の不安除け
To lay such a deflationary mind-set to rest and elicit positive behavior, it is necessary to implement measures aimed at dispelling the anxieties felt by households and corporations.
そんなデフレマインドを払拭し、前向きな行動を呼び起こすには、家計、企業それぞれの不安を取り除く政策が必要だ。
Nonregular employees account for a considerable 40 percent of the total labor force. Lower wages and unstable employment status leave such workers apprehensive about their future. Therefore, nonregular employees are reluctant to increase consumption despite hikes in their wages.
雇用者に占める非正規雇用の割合は４割に達する。低賃金で身分が安定しない非正規雇用では、将来に不安が残り、賃金が増えても消費を増やす気にならない。
The second arrow to be released as part of Abe’s new policy package is to achieve the hopeful fertility rate target of 1.8 − a numerical goal that would be accomplished if women had babies as they wished. The third one is to attain the goal of making sure no one must quit his or her job to provide nursing care for relatives.
新３本の矢の２、３本目の目標は「希望出生率１・８」と「介護離職ゼロ」の実現だ。
We believe the government is on the right track as it seeks to dispel the anxiety felt by people about raising their children and nursing their relatives, combined with efforts to increase the workforce, including women. However, such efforts alone will not be enough to achieve the intended goals.
子育てや介護の不安を解消し、女性を含む労働力の増加を目指す方向は正しいが、それだけでは足りない。
Further efforts are needed to help nonregular workers, who tend to be younger employees, to become regular workers. Companies should reform work methods, such as by reducing long working hours and helping employees develop their skills and abilities, to give people in the workforce a brighter future.
若年層を中心に非正規から正規雇用への転換を進めねばならない。職業能力開発や長時間労働の改善などの働き方改革で、働く人に明るい未来を提示すべきだ。
Corporate anxiety originates from the view that Japan’s shrinking population will cause domestic markets to shrink, which will make turning a profit impossible even if a company makes investments. It is important to push ahead with ongoing efforts to widely lift the aspirations of businesses, such as by easing regulations in an effort to create new markets.
企業の不安は、人口減で国内市場が縮小し、投資しても利益が得られないとの見方に起因する。新市場創出を狙う規制緩和などは、企業の要望を広く吸い上げつつ進めることが大事だ。
Discussions between the public and private sectors, namely between the government and the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren) and other entities, resulted in the effective corporate tax rate being trimmed ahead of schedule. We hope both sides will continue to productively use forums in which they can exchange opinions.
政府と経団連などとの官民対話で、法人実効税率引き下げの前倒しが実現した。今後も意見交換の場として有効活用したい。
In industrial circles, there are demands for a reduction in electricity charges, which have remained at a high level, to help cut operating costs. To achieve this, it will be necessary to restart nuclear power plants that have been confirmed safe to operate, and to steadily construct new plants.
産業界は、経営コスト低減のため、高止まりした電力料金の引き下げを求めている。安全が確認された原子力発電所の再稼働や新増設を着実に進める必要がある。
To eliminate people’s unease about the future, it will be essential to restore the health of the central government’s finances, which are in a critical state, and to maintain a stable social security system.
国民の将来不安の解消には、危機的状況にある国の財政の健全化を図り、安定した社会保障制度を維持することも欠かせない。
The government has set a target of achieving a surplus in the primary balance in fiscal 2020. To reach this goal, the government should continue to seek ways to spend its money more efficiently, and not rely too much on recent efforts to increase tax revenue.
政府は、２０２０年度に基礎的財政収支を黒字化する目標の実現へ、最近の税収増に気を緩めず、歳出効率化を進めるべきだ。
In April 2017, the consumption tax rate will be hiked to 10 percent. This tax is a source of funds for social security. The rate increase must be implemented smoothly, alongside the introduction of a reduced tax rate.
社会保障財源である消費税の税率は１７年４月に１０％へ引き上げられる。軽減税率導入を含め、混乱なく実施しなければならない。
Political stability is crucial for dealing with the pile of domestic and international problems facing Japan. A long-term administration that can smoothly communicate with leaders of other nations has major advantages when it comes to enabling Japan to play its role, especially on the international political stage.
内外に山積する課題をこなしていくには、政治の安定が不可欠だ。とくに国際政治の舞台で日本が役割を果たすには、各国首脳との意思疎通が円滑になる長期政権のメリットは大きい。
Abe govt’s footing depends on poll
◆政権安定度占う参院選
This summer’s upper house election will portend whether Abe can maintain a stable administration for an even longer period.
参院選は、安倍首相がより長期で安定した政権を維持できるかどうかを占うものとなる。
If the LDP wins a majority in the upper house on its own, it would be the first time in 27 years. However, the LDP’s recovery in recent years has been strongly supported by the cooperation of its coalition partner, Komeito, in elections. Even if the LDP emerges victorious in this election, it will not be in a position to be completely optimistic about the future.
自民党が単独過半数を占めれば２７年ぶりだ。しかし、近年の自民党の復調は、連立を組む公明党との選挙協力に支えられている面が強い。勝利しても決して楽観できる情勢ではない。
A major focus of this election will be whether forces positive about revising the Constitution − including the LDP, Komeito, Osaka Ishin no Kai and the Party for Japanese Kokoro − will be able to gain more than two-thirds of the seats.
参院選では、自民、公明の与党に、おおさか維新の会、日本のこころを大切にする党なども含めた憲法改正に積極的な勢力で、３分の２を上回るかも焦点になる。
Opinion is widely split over whether the Constitution should be revised. Before getting into a confrontation over the merits or otherwise of revising the top law, precisely what the nation wants from the Constitution needs to be debated in detail. Serious consideration should be given to including an emergency-related article that defines preparations to be made to better cope with major disasters.
憲法改正をめぐっては、賛否が大きく分かれる。だが、改正の是非で対立する以前に、憲法に今、何が求められるのかを具体的に議論する必要がある。大災害が発生した場合に備える緊急事態条項などは、真剣に検討すべきだ。
The planned transfer of the U.S. Marine Corps’ Futenma Air Station to Henoko, Okinawa Prefecture, has been dragged into the courts as a case between the prefectural and central governments. We think shifting the base from its current location in Ginowan in the prefecture to Henoko is the most realistic option for maintaining the deterrent of U.S. forces stationed in Japan while simultaneously easing Okinawa’s burden of hosting U.S. military bases.
米軍普天間飛行場の辺野古への移設は、沖縄県と政府の法廷闘争に持ち込まれた。在日米軍の抑止力維持と、沖縄の基地負担軽減を両立させるには、辺野古移設が最も現実的な選択肢だ。
The central government needs to steadily move ahead with this plan while continuing efforts to win the understanding of Okinawa residents and authorities.
地元の理解を得る努力を続け、着実に前進させる必要がある。
Opposition parties and other groups have reacted angrily to the base transfer to Henoko and to last year’s passage of security-related bills. It is vital to debate the specifics of where the problems reside and attempt to form a consensus. This is especially so for issues requiring a long-term perspective, such as constitutional revision.
辺野古移設や安全保障関連法をめぐっては、野党などの反発も強い。憲法改正もそうだが、長期的視野が必要な問題では特に、具体的に問題の所在を議論し、合意形成を図っていかねばならない。
During last year’s deliberations on the security bills, opposition parties constantly resorted to emotional objections. Using such tactics again would be troublesome. The public demands fruitful policy debates conducted with a sense of urgency.
野党も、昨年の安全保障法制の審議のように、情緒的な反対論ばかりでは困る。緊張感を持った実のある政策論議が求められる。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 1, 2016)
2016: Japan must fulfill its duties to ensure world stability
世界の安定へ重い日本の責務
◆成長戦略を一層強力に進めたい
How do we restore stability to the international order? The world is now facing a critical challenge.
国際秩序の安定をどう取り戻すか。世界は今、大きな試練に直面している。
The indiscriminate terrorist attacks in Paris by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) extremist group caused great distress to international community. In reaction to the wave of terrorism and the huge influx of refugees from the Middle East, exclusionary moves are gaining momentum in Europe and in the United States.
過激派組織「イスラム国」によるパリでの無差別テロは、国際社会に大きな衝撃を与えた。テロの拡散と、中東からの難民の激増を受けて、欧州や米国で排他的な動きが強まっている。
Attempts to change the status quo by force are rampant as Russia’s annexation of Crimea continues and China continues to build military strongholds on artificial islands in the South China Sea.
ロシアのクリミア併合は長期化し、中国が南シナ海で人工島の軍事拠点化を進めるなど、力による現状変更の試みもやまない。
The world looks as if it is going to fall apart as freedom, equality, rule of law and other values that should be deemed as common falter. If the international order collapses, Japan’s security also will be threatened. We need to be more aware of impending crises and confront the threats squarely.
自由や平等、法の支配といった共通であるべき価値観が揺らぎ、世界は分断へと向かっているかのようだ。国際秩序が崩壊すれば日本の安全も脅かされる。危機感を強めて向き合わねばならない。
A presidential election will be held in the United States this year. The country’s leadership will be on the wane. Japan, under such circumstances, will host the Group of Seven summit (Ise-Shima summit) and also become a nonpermanent member of the U.N. Security Council. Responsibilities heavier than ever before will be thrust upon Japan to help unite international community and coordinate varying interests.
米国が大統領選を迎え、指導力が低下する今年、日本は主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）を主催し、国連安全保障理事会の非常任理事国に就任する。国際社会の結束や利害調整に、これまでにない重い責務が課される。
Domestically, it has the urgent task of boosting economic growth as the population dwindles. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s administration, along with its initiative to promote “a society that enables the dynamic engagement of all citizens,” will face the judgment of voters in the House of Councillors election in summer. A plan to further ensure economic recovery should be initiated.
国内では、人口減少が進む中で成長力の底上げが急務だ。「１億総活躍社会」を掲げる安倍政権は、今夏、参院選で有権者の審判を受ける。経済再生をより確かにする道筋を示す必要がある。
To brighten the future of Japan in a tumultuous world, we hope this will be a year of progress.
鳴動する世界の中で、日本の未来を明るいものにするため、歩を進める年にしたい。
‘Antiterrorism’ unity urgent
◆「対テロ」連携が急務だ
Young people and others who sympathize with the extremist ideas of ISIL are wounding and killing defenseless people around them. Terrorist acts have spread around the world. Fear is inducing actions to eliminate anything that is foreign.
「イスラム国」の過激思想に同調した若者らが、周囲の無防備な市民を殺傷するテロが世界に広がった。恐怖が、異質なものを排除する動きにつながっている。
Within the boundaries of the European Union, border inspections are being reinstalled one after another − contrary to the Schengen Agreement, which in principle states that such inspections are unnecessary. The idea of free movement of persons, a cornerstone of European integration, is wavering.
欧州連合（ＥＵ）では、国境検査を不要とするシェンゲン協定の原則に反し、検査を復活する動きが相次ぐ。統合理念である「人の移動の自由」が揺らいでいる。
Even in the United States, a nation of immigrants, an undercurrent of refusing the entry of refugees and Muslims has gained strength.
移民国家である米国でも、難民やイスラム教徒の受け入れを拒絶する空気が勢いを増した。
If the movement of people, goods and capital across borders is threatened, this could indeed become a destabilizing factor for the world economy.
人、モノ、資金の国境を越えた移動が脅かされれば、世界経済の不安定要因ともなる。
The world does not have a future unless we are victorious in the “war on terror” to eliminate the threat posed by ISIL and contain acts of violence.
「イスラム国」の脅威を除去し、暴力行為を封じ込める「テロとの戦い」に勝利しなければ、世界の未来はない。
The Syrian civil war is the epicenter of all this. The United States, European nations, Russia, Turkey and other countries involved should coordinate efforts swiftly with regard to military operations and transition of power.
震源地であるシリアの内戦終結へ、米欧露、トルコなど関係国は、軍事作戦と体制移行をめぐる協調を急ぐべきだ。
ISIL has declared that Japan is also a terrorism target.
「イスラム国」は日本もテロの標的だと明言している。
With the upcoming summit in mind, antiterrorist measures within Japan’s boundaries are inadequate. If information-gathering on extremist groups and steps taken to prevent terrorism based on such information are inadequate, Japan will end up as the weakest link in international efforts to fight terrorism.
サミットを控えた国内テロ対策には不安が残る。過激組織の情報収集や、集めた情報に基づいてテロを未然に防ぐ手だてが不十分では、日本が対テロの国際的連携の空白地帯になってしまう。
The legal system should be inspected for any flaws and revamped to fulfill Japan’s political responsibilities.
法制度に不備がないか点検し、改善するのが政治の責務だ。
China’s maritime territorial claims in the South China Sea are baseless under international law. However, they are aiming to make these claims a fait accompli. Actions that threaten the safety of the sea line of communication are contrary to the interests of international community.
中国は南シナ海で、国際法上の根拠のない領海主張の既成事実化を図っている。海上交通路（シーレーン）の安全を脅かす行為は国際社会の利益に反する。
To rein in such moves, the United States has sent warships to areas surrounding the artificial islands and engaged in other operations.
米国は人工島周辺の艦艇航行などによる牽制けんせいに踏み出した。
It is necessary for Japan, Australia, India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to further strengthen cooperation and use every opportunity including international forums to demand that China restrain itself.
日豪印や東南アジア諸国連合（ＡＳＥＡＮ）も連帯を強め、国際会議などあらゆる場面で中国に自制を求める行動を続ける必要がある。
In order to counter Chinese pressure in areas surrounding the Senkaku Islands, the security-related laws must be implemented properly to enhance the deterrent powers of the Japan-U.S. alliance.
尖閣諸島周辺などでの中国の圧力に抗するには、安全保障関連法を適切に運用し、日米同盟の抑止力を高めねばならない。
Make good use of security laws
◆安保法制の有効運用を
China, the world’s second-largest economic power, is currently experiencing a worsening business slowdown.
世界２位の経済大国でもある中国の景気は減速を強めている。
The state of affairs could disturb the world due to such factors as a drop in resource prices. Developed nations − including Britain and Germany, both of which are becoming closer to China in economic terms − should make concerted efforts to cope with the situation. In pursuit of that goal, these countries should urge China to trim excessive production capacity and promote other structural reforms.
資源価格の下落などを通じて世界を混乱させかねない。中国経済への接近を強める英独も含め、先進国が足並みをそろえて、過剰な生産能力の解消など、構造改革を中国に促していくべきだ。
In addressing issues such as those related to North Korea’s nuclear weapons and missiles and the Ukraine situation, Japan should also strive to form a consensus among pertinent nations at the summit meeting and U.N. conferences.
北朝鮮の核・ミサイル問題、ウクライナ情勢などをめぐっても、日本はサミットや国連の場で、関係国の合意形成に努めたい。
Three years have passed since the inauguration of the second administration of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Despite corporations’ improved business performance and higher stock prices, the sentiment that the economy has improved has not prevailed. As circumstances stand now, little headway is being made in efforts to achieve economic revitalization through the Abenomics economic policy.
第２次安倍政権の発足から３年がたった。企業業績や株価は上昇したが、景気回復の実感は広がらない。「アベノミクス」による経済再生は足踏み状態にある。
The root of this situation is clear. The government’s growth strategy has not yet fully worked to fight a decline in the nation’s potential growth rate due to a population decrease.
原因は、はっきりしている。人口減少に伴う潜在成長率の低下に対抗する成長戦略が、まだ十分に効果を発揮していないためだ。
The prime minister has unveiled a fresh set of policy targets dubbed the “new three arrows,” the first of which will seek to raise our nation’s gross domestic product to \600 trillion in nominal terms. Reinforcing the growth policy is the only way to achieve that goal.
安倍首相は新政策目標「新３本の矢」を打ち出し、１本目に「名目ＧＤＰ（国内総生産）６００兆円」を掲げた。実現には成長政策を一段と強めるしか道はない。
Required measures include promoting deregulation in the fields of medical and nursing care services, agriculture and others. Efforts should be made to ensure that technological advancement in such fields as information technology and robotics lead to further industrial development. It is also necessary to make the most of a broad agreement reached in multilateral talks over the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade pact last year.
医療・介護、農業などの分野で規制緩和を進める。ＩＴ、ロボットなどの技術進歩を産業振興につなげる。昨年、大筋合意に達した環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）を最大限に活用する。
The measures hammered out up to now should be reinforced to ensure that their purposes are better served.
今までに打ち出された施策を深化させ、実効性を高めたい。
Another case in point is how to make efficient use of such resources as household financial assets totaling a hefty \1.7 quadrillion and internal reserves worth \350 trillion kept at corporations. The question is whether there are any ways to better use these resources for the pursuit of growth. It is necessary to exercise wisdom in devising bold new policy measures.
さらに、約１７００兆円に上る家計の金融資産や、３５０兆円に達した企業の内部留保などを、もっと成長に生かすための手段はないか。大胆で新しい政策に知恵を絞ることも重要だ。
It has been about 25 years since the collapse of the bubble economy. Under protracted deflation, households and corporations became strongly negative about spending money, a state of mind that is firmly entrenched among them. Few households are willing to increase consumption, despite expanded employment and higher wages. Meanwhile, corporations remain cautious about investment, notwithstanding their success in generating profits at record high levels.
バブル経済の崩壊から約２５年。長いデフレ下で家計や企業に染みついた後ろ向きの心理状態は、なお根深いものがある。雇用や賃金が増えても、家計は消費を増やさない。企業は過去最高水準の利益を上げても投資に慎重だ。
Dispel fear of spending
◆家計と企業の不安除け
To lay such a deflationary mind-set to rest and elicit positive behavior, it is necessary to implement measures aimed at dispelling the anxieties felt by households and corporations.
そんなデフレマインドを払拭し、前向きな行動を呼び起こすには、家計、企業それぞれの不安を取り除く政策が必要だ。
Nonregular employees account for a considerable 40 percent of the total labor force. Lower wages and unstable employment status leave such workers apprehensive about their future. Therefore, nonregular employees are reluctant to increase consumption despite hikes in their wages.
雇用者に占める非正規雇用の割合は４割に達する。低賃金で身分が安定しない非正規雇用では、将来に不安が残り、賃金が増えても消費を増やす気にならない。
The second arrow to be released as part of Abe’s new policy package is to achieve the hopeful fertility rate target of 1.8 − a numerical goal that would be accomplished if women had babies as they wished. The third one is to attain the goal of making sure no one must quit his or her job to provide nursing care for relatives.
新３本の矢の２、３本目の目標は「希望出生率１・８」と「介護離職ゼロ」の実現だ。
We believe the government is on the right track as it seeks to dispel the anxiety felt by people about raising their children and nursing their relatives, combined with efforts to increase the workforce, including women. However, such efforts alone will not be enough to achieve the intended goals.
子育てや介護の不安を解消し、女性を含む労働力の増加を目指す方向は正しいが、それだけでは足りない。
Further efforts are needed to help nonregular workers, who tend to be younger employees, to become regular workers. Companies should reform work methods, such as by reducing long working hours and helping employees develop their skills and abilities, to give people in the workforce a brighter future.
若年層を中心に非正規から正規雇用への転換を進めねばならない。職業能力開発や長時間労働の改善などの働き方改革で、働く人に明るい未来を提示すべきだ。
Corporate anxiety originates from the view that Japan’s shrinking population will cause domestic markets to shrink, which will make turning a profit impossible even if a company makes investments. It is important to push ahead with ongoing efforts to widely lift the aspirations of businesses, such as by easing regulations in an effort to create new markets.
企業の不安は、人口減で国内市場が縮小し、投資しても利益が得られないとの見方に起因する。新市場創出を狙う規制緩和などは、企業の要望を広く吸い上げつつ進めることが大事だ。
Discussions between the public and private sectors, namely between the government and the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren) and other entities, resulted in the effective corporate tax rate being trimmed ahead of schedule. We hope both sides will continue to productively use forums in which they can exchange opinions.
政府と経団連などとの官民対話で、法人実効税率引き下げの前倒しが実現した。今後も意見交換の場として有効活用したい。
In industrial circles, there are demands for a reduction in electricity charges, which have remained at a high level, to help cut operating costs. To achieve this, it will be necessary to restart nuclear power plants that have been confirmed safe to operate, and to steadily construct new plants.
産業界は、経営コスト低減のため、高止まりした電力料金の引き下げを求めている。安全が確認された原子力発電所の再稼働や新増設を着実に進める必要がある。
To eliminate people’s unease about the future, it will be essential to restore the health of the central government’s finances, which are in a critical state, and to maintain a stable social security system.
国民の将来不安の解消には、危機的状況にある国の財政の健全化を図り、安定した社会保障制度を維持することも欠かせない。
The government has set a target of achieving a surplus in the primary balance in fiscal 2020. To reach this goal, the government should continue to seek ways to spend its money more efficiently, and not rely too much on recent efforts to increase tax revenue.
政府は、２０２０年度に基礎的財政収支を黒字化する目標の実現へ、最近の税収増に気を緩めず、歳出効率化を進めるべきだ。
In April 2017, the consumption tax rate will be hiked to 10 percent. This tax is a source of funds for social security. The rate increase must be implemented smoothly, alongside the introduction of a reduced tax rate.
社会保障財源である消費税の税率は１７年４月に１０％へ引き上げられる。軽減税率導入を含め、混乱なく実施しなければならない。
Political stability is crucial for dealing with the pile of domestic and international problems facing Japan. A long-term administration that can smoothly communicate with leaders of other nations has major advantages when it comes to enabling Japan to play its role, especially on the international political stage.
内外に山積する課題をこなしていくには、政治の安定が不可欠だ。とくに国際政治の舞台で日本が役割を果たすには、各国首脳との意思疎通が円滑になる長期政権のメリットは大きい。
Abe govt’s footing depends on poll
◆政権安定度占う参院選
This summer’s upper house election will portend whether Abe can maintain a stable administration for an even longer period.
参院選は、安倍首相がより長期で安定した政権を維持できるかどうかを占うものとなる。
If the LDP wins a majority in the upper house on its own, it would be the first time in 27 years. However, the LDP’s recovery in recent years has been strongly supported by the cooperation of its coalition partner, Komeito, in elections. Even if the LDP emerges victorious in this election, it will not be in a position to be completely optimistic about the future.
自民党が単独過半数を占めれば２７年ぶりだ。しかし、近年の自民党の復調は、連立を組む公明党との選挙協力に支えられている面が強い。勝利しても決して楽観できる情勢ではない。
A major focus of this election will be whether forces positive about revising the Constitution − including the LDP, Komeito, Osaka Ishin no Kai and the Party for Japanese Kokoro − will be able to gain more than two-thirds of the seats.
参院選では、自民、公明の与党に、おおさか維新の会、日本のこころを大切にする党なども含めた憲法改正に積極的な勢力で、３分の２を上回るかも焦点になる。
Opinion is widely split over whether the Constitution should be revised. Before getting into a confrontation over the merits or otherwise of revising the top law, precisely what the nation wants from the Constitution needs to be debated in detail. Serious consideration should be given to including an emergency-related article that defines preparations to be made to better cope with major disasters.
憲法改正をめぐっては、賛否が大きく分かれる。だが、改正の是非で対立する以前に、憲法に今、何が求められるのかを具体的に議論する必要がある。大災害が発生した場合に備える緊急事態条項などは、真剣に検討すべきだ。
The planned transfer of the U.S. Marine Corps’ Futenma Air Station to Henoko, Okinawa Prefecture, has been dragged into the courts as a case between the prefectural and central governments. We think shifting the base from its current location in Ginowan in the prefecture to Henoko is the most realistic option for maintaining the deterrent of U.S. forces stationed in Japan while simultaneously easing Okinawa’s burden of hosting U.S. military bases.
米軍普天間飛行場の辺野古への移設は、沖縄県と政府の法廷闘争に持ち込まれた。在日米軍の抑止力維持と、沖縄の基地負担軽減を両立させるには、辺野古移設が最も現実的な選択肢だ。
The central government needs to steadily move ahead with this plan while continuing efforts to win the understanding of Okinawa residents and authorities.
地元の理解を得る努力を続け、着実に前進させる必要がある。
Opposition parties and other groups have reacted angrily to the base transfer to Henoko and to last year’s passage of security-related bills. It is vital to debate the specifics of where the problems reside and attempt to form a consensus. This is especially so for issues requiring a long-term perspective, such as constitutional revision.
辺野古移設や安全保障関連法をめぐっては、野党などの反発も強い。憲法改正もそうだが、長期的視野が必要な問題では特に、具体的に問題の所在を議論し、合意形成を図っていかねばならない。
During last year’s deliberations on the security bills, opposition parties constantly resorted to emotional objections. Using such tactics again would be troublesome. The public demands fruitful policy debates conducted with a sense of urgency.
野党も、昨年の安全保障法制の審議のように、情緒的な反対論ばかりでは困る。緊張感を持った実のある政策論議が求められる。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 1, 2016)
2015年12月31日
日韓解決合意 法的責任、曖昧なまま 少女像撤去は玉虫色
毎日新聞2015年12月29日 東京朝刊
Japan-South Korea accord on 'comfort women' leaves ambiguities
日韓解決合意 法的責任、曖昧なまま 少女像撤去は玉虫色
In the latest accord reached by the governments of Japan and South Korea on the so-called "comfort women" issue, Japan did not back down from its position that the issue had been resolved in a 1965 treaty with South Korea. Instead, the two governments agreed that South Korea would establish a foundation for former comfort women, for which the Japanese government would provide the funds. There remain, however, gaps between what the two governments are seeking, which will require future political maneuvering.
慰安婦問題で韓国側には日本政府の「法的責任」を求める声が強かったが、日本側は「解決済み」との立場は崩さず、韓国が財団を設立し日本が資金を拠出する新たな支援策で折り合った。両国間で完全に一致していない論点もあり、今後の調整に委ねられた。
According to the latest agreement, the South Korean government will establish a new foundation to support former comfort women, for which the Japanese government will supply some 1 billion yen. Unlike the Asian Women's Fund, which was funded in part by donations from the private sector and dissolved in 2007, the new foundation's monies will come solely by the Japanese government. The arrangement implies that the Japanese government is taking a certain degree of responsibility for the comfort women issue, making the agreement more acceptable for Seoul, which had been calling on Japan to explicitly acknowledge its responsibility as a state.
□請求権
今回の合意では、元慰安婦を支援する新たな財団を韓国政府が設立し、日本政府が１０億円程度支出することで両国が歩み寄った。資金の一部を民間からの寄付金で賄ったアジア女性基金と異なり、全額が日本の政府予算。日本側が一定の責任を取ったとの意味合いを持たせ、日本が国家としての責任を明確に認めるよう求めてきた韓国側が受け入れやすくなった面がある。
Meanwhile, the Japanese government, which has continued to argue that the comfort women issue was completely and definitively resolved in the 1965 Treaty on Basic Relations between Japan and the Republic of Korea, will be providing the funds for the new foundation under the pretext that it is taking "moral responsibility." According to a Japanese government source, the cash amount ended up being much higher than initially planned, because "it would be difficult to persuade former comfort women to accept the accord if the amount were too small." Asked about the Japanese government's provision of funds for the foundation, Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida emphasized to reporters, "They are not reparations."
一方、１９６５年の日韓請求権協定で「完全かつ最終的に解決済み」と主張してきた日本側は「道義的責任」との名目で支出する。政府関係者は「あまりに少ないと韓国が元慰安婦らを説得できなくなる」と当初の想定より大幅に増額した。岸田文雄外相は財団への支出について記者団に「賠償ではない」と強調した。
At a joint press conference held by Kishida and his South Korean counterpart Yun Byung-se following the accord, Kishida said the Japanese government is "painfully aware of its responsibilities." He also explained that the prime minister would express a "heartfelt apology and remorse." The wording the prime minister will use will be almost exactly the same as those in letters sent by past prime ministers to former comfort women -- which was the limit of what the Japanese government was willing to accept. As for the method by which the prime minister's sentiments will be communicated to former comfort women, Kishida said, "That is the job of the foundation. We will move forward in adherence with the Japan-South Korea agreement."
□謝罪
元慰安婦らが求める謝罪については、岸田氏が共同記者発表で「日本政府は責任を痛感している」と表明。「首相が心からおわびと反省の気持ちを表明する」と説明した。歴代首相が元慰安婦に送った手紙の文言とほぼ同じで、日本側にとって受け入れ可能なラインだった。合意に基づく首相の言葉を元慰安婦に伝える方法について、岸田氏は記者団に「財団の事業。日韓で合意したものを進める」と語った。
At the Japan-South Korea summit held in November, South Korean President Park Geun-hye sought a resolution to the comfort women issue that "the victims would be able to accept, and that the public will find satisfactory" as a condition for reaching a final agreement. Meanwhile, the Japanese government demanded that South Korea put in writing that, after an agreement is reached, the issue would not be brought up again. Ultimately, both Kishida and Yun stated that the agreement reached on Dec. 28 was "final and irreversible," using the term "irreversible" for the first time. Tokyo believes that the document released at the joint foreign ministerial press conference is proof of Seoul's definitive commitment to this promise.
□最終妥結の条件
最終決着となる妥結の条件については、韓国側は朴槿恵（パククネ）大統領が「被害者が受け入れられ、韓国国民が納得のいく水準の解決策」と１１月の日韓首脳会談で求めていた。日本側は韓国側が「蒸し返す」ことがないよう文書化を目指した。結局、両外相が「最終的かつ不可逆的に解決することを確認」と表明し、「不可逆的」という言葉が初めて使われた。共同記者発表の文書によって、日本側は決着の確約が取れたと受け止めている。
However, the fate of the statue of a girl in front of the Japanese Embassy in Seoul -- installed in remembrance of former comfort women -- is still unclear. South Korea said merely that it would "take the measures necessary," while Kishida took it one step further, saying the statue will be "appropriately relocated." The end result remains ambiguous, with both sides going only as far as they were willing to go, respectively.
□少女像
少女像の撤去をめぐっては、韓国側は「適切に解決されるよう努力」との表現にとどめた。一方で岸田氏は「適切な移転がなされる」と踏み込んだ。双方で言い分が異なる玉虫色の結果だが、双方が折り合えるギリギリの表現となった。
Japan-South Korea accord on 'comfort women' leaves ambiguities
日韓解決合意 法的責任、曖昧なまま 少女像撤去は玉虫色
In the latest accord reached by the governments of Japan and South Korea on the so-called "comfort women" issue, Japan did not back down from its position that the issue had been resolved in a 1965 treaty with South Korea. Instead, the two governments agreed that South Korea would establish a foundation for former comfort women, for which the Japanese government would provide the funds. There remain, however, gaps between what the two governments are seeking, which will require future political maneuvering.
慰安婦問題で韓国側には日本政府の「法的責任」を求める声が強かったが、日本側は「解決済み」との立場は崩さず、韓国が財団を設立し日本が資金を拠出する新たな支援策で折り合った。両国間で完全に一致していない論点もあり、今後の調整に委ねられた。
According to the latest agreement, the South Korean government will establish a new foundation to support former comfort women, for which the Japanese government will supply some 1 billion yen. Unlike the Asian Women's Fund, which was funded in part by donations from the private sector and dissolved in 2007, the new foundation's monies will come solely by the Japanese government. The arrangement implies that the Japanese government is taking a certain degree of responsibility for the comfort women issue, making the agreement more acceptable for Seoul, which had been calling on Japan to explicitly acknowledge its responsibility as a state.
□請求権
今回の合意では、元慰安婦を支援する新たな財団を韓国政府が設立し、日本政府が１０億円程度支出することで両国が歩み寄った。資金の一部を民間からの寄付金で賄ったアジア女性基金と異なり、全額が日本の政府予算。日本側が一定の責任を取ったとの意味合いを持たせ、日本が国家としての責任を明確に認めるよう求めてきた韓国側が受け入れやすくなった面がある。
Meanwhile, the Japanese government, which has continued to argue that the comfort women issue was completely and definitively resolved in the 1965 Treaty on Basic Relations between Japan and the Republic of Korea, will be providing the funds for the new foundation under the pretext that it is taking "moral responsibility." According to a Japanese government source, the cash amount ended up being much higher than initially planned, because "it would be difficult to persuade former comfort women to accept the accord if the amount were too small." Asked about the Japanese government's provision of funds for the foundation, Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida emphasized to reporters, "They are not reparations."
一方、１９６５年の日韓請求権協定で「完全かつ最終的に解決済み」と主張してきた日本側は「道義的責任」との名目で支出する。政府関係者は「あまりに少ないと韓国が元慰安婦らを説得できなくなる」と当初の想定より大幅に増額した。岸田文雄外相は財団への支出について記者団に「賠償ではない」と強調した。
At a joint press conference held by Kishida and his South Korean counterpart Yun Byung-se following the accord, Kishida said the Japanese government is "painfully aware of its responsibilities." He also explained that the prime minister would express a "heartfelt apology and remorse." The wording the prime minister will use will be almost exactly the same as those in letters sent by past prime ministers to former comfort women -- which was the limit of what the Japanese government was willing to accept. As for the method by which the prime minister's sentiments will be communicated to former comfort women, Kishida said, "That is the job of the foundation. We will move forward in adherence with the Japan-South Korea agreement."
□謝罪
元慰安婦らが求める謝罪については、岸田氏が共同記者発表で「日本政府は責任を痛感している」と表明。「首相が心からおわびと反省の気持ちを表明する」と説明した。歴代首相が元慰安婦に送った手紙の文言とほぼ同じで、日本側にとって受け入れ可能なラインだった。合意に基づく首相の言葉を元慰安婦に伝える方法について、岸田氏は記者団に「財団の事業。日韓で合意したものを進める」と語った。
At the Japan-South Korea summit held in November, South Korean President Park Geun-hye sought a resolution to the comfort women issue that "the victims would be able to accept, and that the public will find satisfactory" as a condition for reaching a final agreement. Meanwhile, the Japanese government demanded that South Korea put in writing that, after an agreement is reached, the issue would not be brought up again. Ultimately, both Kishida and Yun stated that the agreement reached on Dec. 28 was "final and irreversible," using the term "irreversible" for the first time. Tokyo believes that the document released at the joint foreign ministerial press conference is proof of Seoul's definitive commitment to this promise.
□最終妥結の条件
最終決着となる妥結の条件については、韓国側は朴槿恵（パククネ）大統領が「被害者が受け入れられ、韓国国民が納得のいく水準の解決策」と１１月の日韓首脳会談で求めていた。日本側は韓国側が「蒸し返す」ことがないよう文書化を目指した。結局、両外相が「最終的かつ不可逆的に解決することを確認」と表明し、「不可逆的」という言葉が初めて使われた。共同記者発表の文書によって、日本側は決着の確約が取れたと受け止めている。
However, the fate of the statue of a girl in front of the Japanese Embassy in Seoul -- installed in remembrance of former comfort women -- is still unclear. South Korea said merely that it would "take the measures necessary," while Kishida took it one step further, saying the statue will be "appropriately relocated." The end result remains ambiguous, with both sides going only as far as they were willing to go, respectively.
□少女像
少女像の撤去をめぐっては、韓国側は「適切に解決されるよう努力」との表現にとどめた。一方で岸田氏は「適切な移転がなされる」と踏み込んだ。双方で言い分が異なる玉虫色の結果だが、双方が折り合えるギリギリの表現となった。
2015年12月30日
慰安婦問題の合意 歴史を越え日韓の前進を
--The Asahi Shimbun, Dec. 29
EDITORIAL: 'Comfort women' deal should lead to new era of Tokyo-Seoul relations
（社説）慰安婦問題の合意 歴史を越え日韓の前進を
Japan and South Korea on Dec. 28 reached a landmark agreement to settle the long-festering issue of “comfort women.” The agreement, struck at the closing of the year that marks the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II and the 50th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries, has removed the largest source of tension in their bilateral ties.
戦後７０年であり、日本と韓国が国交正常化してから半世紀。そんな１年の終わりに、両政府は最大の懸案だった慰安婦問題で合意に達した。
This is a historic deal for the relationship between Tokyo and Seoul suitable for this milestone year. We welcome the weighty decision by the two governments to move beyond their long-standing feud and take a wise step forward to overcome the negative legacies of their history.
節目の年にふさわしい歴史的な日韓関係の進展である。両政府がわだかまりを越え、負の歴史を克服するための賢明な一歩を刻んだことを歓迎したい。
After the Dec. 28 meeting between Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida and his South Korean counterpart, Yun Byung-se, Kishida defined the issue of comfort women as “an issue that deeply scarred the honor and dignity of many women under the involvement of the military of that time" and stated, “The Japanese government is acutely aware of its responsibility” for the matter.
“Comfort women” is a euphemism for women who were forced to provide sex to members of the imperial Japanese military before and during World War II.
きのうあった外相会談の後、岸田外相は慰安婦問題を「軍の関与のもと多数の女性の名誉と尊厳を傷つけた問題」と定義し、「日本政府は責任を痛感している」と明言した。
The Japanese government, which argues that a bilateral agreement on war reparations concluded 50 years ago legally resolved the issue, has been reluctant to use any language that suggests the nation’s responsibility for the issue. This time, the Japanese government used more candid expressions in referring to its stance toward the sensitive topic while maintaining its official position.
５０年前の請求権協定で「法的には解決済み」とする日本政府はこれまで、国家責任を連想させる言葉遣いに消極的だった。今回はその原則を維持しつつ、率直な表現に踏み込んだ。
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed his heartfelt apology and remorse as prime minister of Japan to former comfort women.
安倍首相は日本の首相として元慰安婦に対し、「心からのおわびと反省」を表明した。
Abe once indicated a desire to review the 1993 Kono statement on the issue, released by then Chief Cabinet Secretary Yohei Kono. It is quite significant that Abe, albeit through Kishida, expressed his commitment to the core message of the key statement.
かつて慰安婦問題をめぐる「河野談話」の見直しに言及したこともある安倍首相だが、岸田外相を通じてとはいえ、談話の核心部分を韓国で表明したことには大きな意味がある。
JAPANESE GOVERNMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY MADE CLEAR
■日本政府の責任明言
South Korean Foreign Minister Yun, for his part, made remarks that responded to Tokyo’s demands.
一方、韓国の尹炳世（ユンビョンセ）外相も日本政府に応えた。
Yun confirmed that the agreement represents a “final and irreversible resolution” of the bitter dispute, although he premised his comment by saying the measures promised by the Japanese government need to be implemented without fail.
今回の合意について、「日本政府の措置の着実な実施」という前提つきながら、「最終的かつ不可逆的に解決されることを確認する」と言い切った。
Yun expressed the South Korean government’s solid commitment to the terms of the agreement in an apparent attempt to reassure Japan, which has criticized South Korea for “moving the goal posts” by changing its position on promises it has made.
日本側から「韓国は約束してもゴールポストを動かす」と批判されていたことを意識したうえでの確約の表明である。
The top diplomats of both countries made these pledges in front of media. They should ensure that the agreement will be faithfully carried out.
両外相ともメディアを通じて両国民に固く誓ったのだ。合意をしっかり履行してほしい。
Under the deal, the South Korean government will establish a foundation to restore the honor and dignity of former comfort women and heal the wounds they bear in their hearts. Tokyo will provide about 1 billion yen ($8.3 million) from its state budget for the foundation.
韓国政府は、元慰安婦の名誉と尊厳を回復し、心の傷を癒やすための財団をつくり、そこに日本政府が約１０億円を国家予算から拠出する。
In the 1990s, Japan set up the Asian Women’s Fund, which offered compensation to former comfort women financed by donations from the Japanese public, as well as medical and welfare programs financed by public funds, along with a letter of apology from the prime minister.
日本は９０年代、国民の募金からなる「償い金」と、政府の資金による医療・福祉支援事業に首相の「おわびの手紙」を添えた「アジア女性基金」事業を始めた。
This initiative produced positive results in Southeast Asia and some other areas, but it failed to achieve its objectives in South Korea because of the rise of public opposition to the project in the country.
東南アジアなどで成果を生んだが、韓国では反対の声が強まり、頓挫してしまった。
Various factors were behind the fund’s failure to win support in South Korea. For one thing, the Japanese government was not necessarily very eager to promote the project. Secondly, the compensation paid to former comfort women was financed by donations from Japanese people, not by the government’s money. These facts provoked criticism in South Korea that Japan was trying to dodge its responsibility.
韓国側で基金の意義が理解されなかった要因は、さまざまあった。日本政府が必ずしも積極的な姿勢で事業に臨まなかったことや、「償い金」に民間募金をあてたことなどで、韓国側は責任回避だとして反発した。
Both governments, citizen groups supporting former comfort women and news media should all learn lessons from this failure.
両政府とともに、元慰安婦たちの支援者ら市民団体、メディアも含めて、当時の教訓を考えたい。
Through future talks, the two sides will work out details about the operation of the proposed new foundation. The top priority should be placed on respecting the feelings of the surviving former comfort women, who now number fewer than 50.
新たに設けられる財団の運営のあり方については今後、詰められる。何より優先すべきは、存命者が５０人を切ってしまった元慰安婦たちのそれぞれの気持ちをくむことだろう。
A support group for these women has denounced the agreement as “diplomatic collusion that betrays both the victims and the public.” Negative reactions to the deal driven by nationalism could also emerge in Japan.
韓国の支援団体は合意について「被害者や国民を裏切る外交的談合」と非難している。日本側からもナショナリズムにかられた不満の声がでかねない。
But the agreement can be a valuable foundation for building new relations between Japan and South Korea. The Japanese government has to meet its commitments faithfully, while the South Korean government has no choice but to have a serious conversation with the people to win their support for the agreement.
だが今回の合意は、新たな日韓関係を築くうえで貴重な土台の一つとなる。日本政府は誠実に合意を履行し、韓国政府は真剣に国内での対話を強める以外に道はない。
PROMOTE RELATIONS BASED ON MUTUAL BENEFITS
■互恵の関係強化を
On Dec. 18, 1965, Japan and South Korea held a ceremony in Seoul to exchange ratification documents for the basic treaty to establish diplomatic relations and four other agreements, opening a new chapter in their history.
５０年前の１２月１８日。
日韓はソウルで基本条約と四つの協定の批准文書を交換し、新たな第一歩を踏み出した。
The four agreements on war reparations, fishing industries, cultural assets and cooperation, and Korean residents in Japan have been improved in some way in response to the demands of the times.
請求権のほか、漁業、文化財・文化協力、在日韓国人の法的地位の４協定はこれまで、その時々の実情に合わせて何らかの形で改良が加えられてきた。
Generations of people in the two countries, including those alive today, have a shared responsibility to review and reconsider the “1965 regime,” the historic framework created in that year by these agreements to define the basic assumptions for the bilateral relationship.
現在の日韓関係の原点ともいえる「６５年体制」の枠組みを、時代に応じて考えていくことは、いまを含む各世代の両国民が担う責務である。
Japan-South Korea relations have developed remarkably over the past half-century.
この半世紀で日韓関係は大きく飛躍した。
South Korea’s per-capita income has grown to nearly $30,000 from slightly more than $100 back then. Japan’s support contributed to South Korea’s marvelous economic development.
韓国の１人あたりの国民所得は、当時の１００ドル余りが今や３万ドルの目前。そこには日本の経済協力金が役立った。
Japan has also gained huge benefits from its neighbor’s rapid economic growth.
そして日本も、急成長する韓国から莫大（ばくだい）な利益を得た。
Over the past half-century, the development of the relationship between Japan and South Korea has been driven by mutual cooperation and benefits. This is also how ties between the two neighbors should be in the future.
ともに協力し合い、利益を広げる互恵の関係がこの半世紀の歩みだったし、これからもあるべき隣国関係の姿である。
The United States, which strongly urged the two nations to normalize their relations five decades ago, has been actively involved in the process leading to the agreement on the comfort women issue.
日韓の国交正常化を強く後押しした米国は、今回の和解にも大きく関与した。
During the past two-and-a-half years, Tokyo and Seoul have been locked in diplomatic smear campaigns against each other, making demeaning remarks in front of other countries, mainly on the diplomatic stage in Washington.
この２年半、日韓両国はワシントンを主舞台として、激しい「告げ口」外交を展開してきた。
Hurt and exhausted by this verbal battle, the two countries have realized the obvious fact that this futile fight produces nothing and decided to return to the most basic principle in diplomacy--dialogue.
その結果、傷つき、疲れ果てた日韓が悟ったのは「不毛な争いは何も生み出さない」というあたり前のことであり、対話という原点に戻ることだった。
LONG LIST OF CHALLENGES TOKYO, SEOUL SHOULD TACKLE TOGETHER
■安保など課題山積
This is an age when the world faces a large number of challenges that demand global responses, including not only various economic problems but also issues concerning security, humanitarian assistance related to conflicts and natural disasters, and environmental protection.
経済だけでなく、安全保障や紛争・災害の人道支援、環境対策など、地球規模の課題が多い時代、
That means there are countless challenges Japan and South Korea, the two major powers in Asia, should grapple with together through cooperative efforts.
アジアを代表する主要国同士の日韓が手を携えて取り組むべきテーマは数知れない。
The foreign ministers of the two countries on Dec. 28 voiced their expectations that the agreement will open a new chapter in the history of the bilateral ties. Kishida said he is convinced that Japan-South Korea relations will enter a new era, while Yun said he expects the two countries to start carving out a new relationship next year.
両外相はきのう、ともに「日韓関係が新時代に入ることを確信している」「来年から新しい関係を切り開けることを期待する」と期待を述べた。
The hope is that the new year, which starts in three days, will mark the beginning of 50 years in which Japan and South Korea can walk together with their eyes looking ahead toward a new future for their relations.
３日後の新年からは、日韓がともに前を向いて歩む５０年の始まりとしたい。
EDITORIAL: 'Comfort women' deal should lead to new era of Tokyo-Seoul relations
（社説）慰安婦問題の合意 歴史を越え日韓の前進を
Japan and South Korea on Dec. 28 reached a landmark agreement to settle the long-festering issue of “comfort women.” The agreement, struck at the closing of the year that marks the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II and the 50th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries, has removed the largest source of tension in their bilateral ties.
戦後７０年であり、日本と韓国が国交正常化してから半世紀。そんな１年の終わりに、両政府は最大の懸案だった慰安婦問題で合意に達した。
This is a historic deal for the relationship between Tokyo and Seoul suitable for this milestone year. We welcome the weighty decision by the two governments to move beyond their long-standing feud and take a wise step forward to overcome the negative legacies of their history.
節目の年にふさわしい歴史的な日韓関係の進展である。両政府がわだかまりを越え、負の歴史を克服するための賢明な一歩を刻んだことを歓迎したい。
After the Dec. 28 meeting between Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida and his South Korean counterpart, Yun Byung-se, Kishida defined the issue of comfort women as “an issue that deeply scarred the honor and dignity of many women under the involvement of the military of that time" and stated, “The Japanese government is acutely aware of its responsibility” for the matter.
“Comfort women” is a euphemism for women who were forced to provide sex to members of the imperial Japanese military before and during World War II.
きのうあった外相会談の後、岸田外相は慰安婦問題を「軍の関与のもと多数の女性の名誉と尊厳を傷つけた問題」と定義し、「日本政府は責任を痛感している」と明言した。
The Japanese government, which argues that a bilateral agreement on war reparations concluded 50 years ago legally resolved the issue, has been reluctant to use any language that suggests the nation’s responsibility for the issue. This time, the Japanese government used more candid expressions in referring to its stance toward the sensitive topic while maintaining its official position.
５０年前の請求権協定で「法的には解決済み」とする日本政府はこれまで、国家責任を連想させる言葉遣いに消極的だった。今回はその原則を維持しつつ、率直な表現に踏み込んだ。
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed his heartfelt apology and remorse as prime minister of Japan to former comfort women.
安倍首相は日本の首相として元慰安婦に対し、「心からのおわびと反省」を表明した。
Abe once indicated a desire to review the 1993 Kono statement on the issue, released by then Chief Cabinet Secretary Yohei Kono. It is quite significant that Abe, albeit through Kishida, expressed his commitment to the core message of the key statement.
かつて慰安婦問題をめぐる「河野談話」の見直しに言及したこともある安倍首相だが、岸田外相を通じてとはいえ、談話の核心部分を韓国で表明したことには大きな意味がある。
JAPANESE GOVERNMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY MADE CLEAR
■日本政府の責任明言
South Korean Foreign Minister Yun, for his part, made remarks that responded to Tokyo’s demands.
一方、韓国の尹炳世（ユンビョンセ）外相も日本政府に応えた。
Yun confirmed that the agreement represents a “final and irreversible resolution” of the bitter dispute, although he premised his comment by saying the measures promised by the Japanese government need to be implemented without fail.
今回の合意について、「日本政府の措置の着実な実施」という前提つきながら、「最終的かつ不可逆的に解決されることを確認する」と言い切った。
Yun expressed the South Korean government’s solid commitment to the terms of the agreement in an apparent attempt to reassure Japan, which has criticized South Korea for “moving the goal posts” by changing its position on promises it has made.
日本側から「韓国は約束してもゴールポストを動かす」と批判されていたことを意識したうえでの確約の表明である。
The top diplomats of both countries made these pledges in front of media. They should ensure that the agreement will be faithfully carried out.
両外相ともメディアを通じて両国民に固く誓ったのだ。合意をしっかり履行してほしい。
Under the deal, the South Korean government will establish a foundation to restore the honor and dignity of former comfort women and heal the wounds they bear in their hearts. Tokyo will provide about 1 billion yen ($8.3 million) from its state budget for the foundation.
韓国政府は、元慰安婦の名誉と尊厳を回復し、心の傷を癒やすための財団をつくり、そこに日本政府が約１０億円を国家予算から拠出する。
In the 1990s, Japan set up the Asian Women’s Fund, which offered compensation to former comfort women financed by donations from the Japanese public, as well as medical and welfare programs financed by public funds, along with a letter of apology from the prime minister.
日本は９０年代、国民の募金からなる「償い金」と、政府の資金による医療・福祉支援事業に首相の「おわびの手紙」を添えた「アジア女性基金」事業を始めた。
This initiative produced positive results in Southeast Asia and some other areas, but it failed to achieve its objectives in South Korea because of the rise of public opposition to the project in the country.
東南アジアなどで成果を生んだが、韓国では反対の声が強まり、頓挫してしまった。
Various factors were behind the fund’s failure to win support in South Korea. For one thing, the Japanese government was not necessarily very eager to promote the project. Secondly, the compensation paid to former comfort women was financed by donations from Japanese people, not by the government’s money. These facts provoked criticism in South Korea that Japan was trying to dodge its responsibility.
韓国側で基金の意義が理解されなかった要因は、さまざまあった。日本政府が必ずしも積極的な姿勢で事業に臨まなかったことや、「償い金」に民間募金をあてたことなどで、韓国側は責任回避だとして反発した。
Both governments, citizen groups supporting former comfort women and news media should all learn lessons from this failure.
両政府とともに、元慰安婦たちの支援者ら市民団体、メディアも含めて、当時の教訓を考えたい。
Through future talks, the two sides will work out details about the operation of the proposed new foundation. The top priority should be placed on respecting the feelings of the surviving former comfort women, who now number fewer than 50.
新たに設けられる財団の運営のあり方については今後、詰められる。何より優先すべきは、存命者が５０人を切ってしまった元慰安婦たちのそれぞれの気持ちをくむことだろう。
A support group for these women has denounced the agreement as “diplomatic collusion that betrays both the victims and the public.” Negative reactions to the deal driven by nationalism could also emerge in Japan.
韓国の支援団体は合意について「被害者や国民を裏切る外交的談合」と非難している。日本側からもナショナリズムにかられた不満の声がでかねない。
But the agreement can be a valuable foundation for building new relations between Japan and South Korea. The Japanese government has to meet its commitments faithfully, while the South Korean government has no choice but to have a serious conversation with the people to win their support for the agreement.
だが今回の合意は、新たな日韓関係を築くうえで貴重な土台の一つとなる。日本政府は誠実に合意を履行し、韓国政府は真剣に国内での対話を強める以外に道はない。
PROMOTE RELATIONS BASED ON MUTUAL BENEFITS
■互恵の関係強化を
On Dec. 18, 1965, Japan and South Korea held a ceremony in Seoul to exchange ratification documents for the basic treaty to establish diplomatic relations and four other agreements, opening a new chapter in their history.
５０年前の１２月１８日。
日韓はソウルで基本条約と四つの協定の批准文書を交換し、新たな第一歩を踏み出した。
The four agreements on war reparations, fishing industries, cultural assets and cooperation, and Korean residents in Japan have been improved in some way in response to the demands of the times.
請求権のほか、漁業、文化財・文化協力、在日韓国人の法的地位の４協定はこれまで、その時々の実情に合わせて何らかの形で改良が加えられてきた。
Generations of people in the two countries, including those alive today, have a shared responsibility to review and reconsider the “1965 regime,” the historic framework created in that year by these agreements to define the basic assumptions for the bilateral relationship.
現在の日韓関係の原点ともいえる「６５年体制」の枠組みを、時代に応じて考えていくことは、いまを含む各世代の両国民が担う責務である。
Japan-South Korea relations have developed remarkably over the past half-century.
この半世紀で日韓関係は大きく飛躍した。
South Korea’s per-capita income has grown to nearly $30,000 from slightly more than $100 back then. Japan’s support contributed to South Korea’s marvelous economic development.
韓国の１人あたりの国民所得は、当時の１００ドル余りが今や３万ドルの目前。そこには日本の経済協力金が役立った。
Japan has also gained huge benefits from its neighbor’s rapid economic growth.
そして日本も、急成長する韓国から莫大（ばくだい）な利益を得た。
Over the past half-century, the development of the relationship between Japan and South Korea has been driven by mutual cooperation and benefits. This is also how ties between the two neighbors should be in the future.
ともに協力し合い、利益を広げる互恵の関係がこの半世紀の歩みだったし、これからもあるべき隣国関係の姿である。
The United States, which strongly urged the two nations to normalize their relations five decades ago, has been actively involved in the process leading to the agreement on the comfort women issue.
日韓の国交正常化を強く後押しした米国は、今回の和解にも大きく関与した。
During the past two-and-a-half years, Tokyo and Seoul have been locked in diplomatic smear campaigns against each other, making demeaning remarks in front of other countries, mainly on the diplomatic stage in Washington.
この２年半、日韓両国はワシントンを主舞台として、激しい「告げ口」外交を展開してきた。
Hurt and exhausted by this verbal battle, the two countries have realized the obvious fact that this futile fight produces nothing and decided to return to the most basic principle in diplomacy--dialogue.
その結果、傷つき、疲れ果てた日韓が悟ったのは「不毛な争いは何も生み出さない」というあたり前のことであり、対話という原点に戻ることだった。
LONG LIST OF CHALLENGES TOKYO, SEOUL SHOULD TACKLE TOGETHER
■安保など課題山積
This is an age when the world faces a large number of challenges that demand global responses, including not only various economic problems but also issues concerning security, humanitarian assistance related to conflicts and natural disasters, and environmental protection.
経済だけでなく、安全保障や紛争・災害の人道支援、環境対策など、地球規模の課題が多い時代、
That means there are countless challenges Japan and South Korea, the two major powers in Asia, should grapple with together through cooperative efforts.
アジアを代表する主要国同士の日韓が手を携えて取り組むべきテーマは数知れない。
The foreign ministers of the two countries on Dec. 28 voiced their expectations that the agreement will open a new chapter in the history of the bilateral ties. Kishida said he is convinced that Japan-South Korea relations will enter a new era, while Yun said he expects the two countries to start carving out a new relationship next year.
両外相はきのう、ともに「日韓関係が新時代に入ることを確信している」「来年から新しい関係を切り開けることを期待する」と期待を述べた。
The hope is that the new year, which starts in three days, will mark the beginning of 50 years in which Japan and South Korea can walk together with their eyes looking ahead toward a new future for their relations.
３日後の新年からは、日韓がともに前を向いて歩む５０年の始まりとしたい。
2015年12月29日
高浜原発 再稼働に反対する
--The Asahi Shimbun, Dec. 27
EDITORIAL: Approval to restart Takahama reactors based on unmet conditions, weak promises
（社説）高浜原発 再稼働に反対する
The Fukui District Court recently nullified its earlier injunction against reactivating the No. 3 and No. 4 reactors of the Takahama nuclear power plant in Fukui Prefecture.
関西電力高浜原発３、４号機（福井県高浜町）の運転を禁じた福井地裁の仮処分決定が取り消された。
Kansai Electric Power Co., operator of the nuclear plant in the town of Takahama, is expected to restart one of the two reactors as early as late January.
関電は来月下旬にも再稼働に踏み切る見込みだ。
But the procedure for obtaining the approval of the hosting government of Fukui Prefecture, which was completed immediately before the court decision, was laden with problems. We oppose moves to press ahead with the planned restarts under the current circumstances.
だが、司法判断の直前に完了した地元・福井県の同意手続きには問題が多い。このまま再稼働へ進むことには反対だ。
Fifteen nuclear reactors are concentrated in Fukui Prefecture, including some for which decisions have been made for decommissioning.
福井県には廃炉が決まったものも含めて１５基の原子炉が集中する。
Fukui Governor Issei Nishikawa set five conditions for his approval, calling on the central government and Kansai Electric to clearly pinpoint their responsibilities.
西川一誠知事は同意にあたって五つの条件を掲げ、国と関電に責任の明確化を迫った。
Public opinion has consistently been cautious about restarting nuclear reactors following the 2011 disaster at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant. Nishikawa called strongly on the central government to “promote public understanding,” and he obtained Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s assurances that he will ensure that meetings with residents will be held across Japan for that purpose.
福島第一原発事故後、原発再稼働に世論は一貫して慎重だ。西川氏は「国民理解の促進」を国に強く求め、安倍首相から「全国各地で説明会を開く」との言質をとった。
The governor called on Kansai Electric to precisely explain when it plans to build an interim storage facility outside Fukui Prefecture for spent nuclear fuel. The utility said in November that it will locate the site for the facility around 2020 and have it operational around 2030.
関電には使用済み核燃料の中間貯蔵施設を県外につくる時期の明示を求めた。関電は１１月、「２０年ごろに場所を決め、３０年ごろに操業する」と表明した。
Nishikawa said he believes that all his conditions have been met. But the substantiality of those commitments remains questionable.
西川氏は、条件がすべて満たされたとの認識を示した。だがこれらの約束がどれほど内実を伴っているかは疑問だ。
Kansai Electric has said it hopes to install an interim storage facility somewhere in the Kansai region, and it has long been canvassing local governments for their understanding. But resistance to hosting such a facility remains strong, and the building site is not likely to be selected any time soon. There is no denying suspicions that the plan could end up as an empty promise.
関電は以前から「中間貯蔵施設は関西に設置したい」と自治体への説明を続けてきた。しかし反発は強く、めどは立たない。結局は「空手形」ではないか、との疑いが否めない。
Questions also remain on the extent to which Nishikawa has fulfilled his own responsibilities.
一方、西川氏はどこまで自身の責任を果たしたか。
He has never had the prefectural government organize meetings with local residents, saying it is up to the central government and the plant operators to explain the safety and necessity of nuclear plants.
「原発の安全性や必要性は国や事業者に説明責任がある」とし、県主催の住民説明会は開かなかった。
An emergency evacuation plan for areas within a 30-kilometer radius of the Takahama nuclear plant was only worked out earlier this month. That zone contains parts of Kyoto and Shiga prefectures and has a total population of about 180,000.
３０キロ圏に京都、滋賀両府県を含み、計約１８万人が暮らす高浜原発周辺の避難計画は今月まとまったばかり。
But Nishikawa approved the planned restarts without waiting for a drill held across prefectural borders, arguing that working out an emergency evacuation plan is not a legal requisite for restarting a nuclear reactor.
だが西川氏は「法律上、避難計画は再稼働の条件ではない」と述べ、府県境をまたぐ訓練も待たずに同意に踏み切った。
Obtaining the host communities’ approval for a reactor restart should primarily be a process to enhance the safety and peace of mind of local residents.
地元同意は本来、住民の安全と安心を高めるプロセスのはずだ。
It is all too regretful that another undesirable example has been set, following the earlier approvals to restart the Sendai nuclear power plant in Kagoshima Prefecture and the Ikata nuclear power plant in Ehime Prefecture.
だが、九州電力川内原発（鹿児島県）、四国電力伊方原発（愛媛県）に続き、望ましくない「ひな型」がまた一つ増えたのは残念というしかない。
The central government was also quite candid in postulating that restarting nuclear reactors is a foregone conclusion. Industry minister Motoo Hayashi visited Fukui, the capital of Fukui Prefecture, four days before the court decision to ask Nishikawa for his approval.
国の再稼働ありきの姿勢もより露骨だった。林幹雄経済産業相は司法判断の４日前に福井を訪れ西川氏に同意を要請した。
The local governments and residents of communities adjacent to nuclear plants are strongly dissatisfied that they have no say in decisions on reactor restarts. Kansai Electric has rejected the demands of the Kyoto and Shiga prefectural governments for inclusion on the list of “hosting communities,” whose approvals are required for restarting reactors of the Takahama nuclear plant. The central government has only been looking on, arguing that approvals of the hosting communities are not a legal requirement.
原発周辺の自治体や住民には、再稼働の判断に関与できないことへの不満が強い。高浜でも京都、滋賀両府県が立地自治体並みの「同意権」を求めたが、関電は応じていない。国も「地元同意は法令上の要件ではない」と静観するばかりだ。
Abe has said he will provide explanations to gain the public’s understanding of the importance of nuclear power generation. That leads us to believe that he should also be presenting guidelines on the extent and coverage of the “hosting communities,” whose approvals are necessary for nuclear restarts.
安倍首相は「原発の重要性に国民理解が得られるよう説明していく」と述べた。それならば「地元」の範囲についても方向性を示すべきではないか。
EDITORIAL: Approval to restart Takahama reactors based on unmet conditions, weak promises
（社説）高浜原発 再稼働に反対する
The Fukui District Court recently nullified its earlier injunction against reactivating the No. 3 and No. 4 reactors of the Takahama nuclear power plant in Fukui Prefecture.
関西電力高浜原発３、４号機（福井県高浜町）の運転を禁じた福井地裁の仮処分決定が取り消された。
Kansai Electric Power Co., operator of the nuclear plant in the town of Takahama, is expected to restart one of the two reactors as early as late January.
関電は来月下旬にも再稼働に踏み切る見込みだ。
But the procedure for obtaining the approval of the hosting government of Fukui Prefecture, which was completed immediately before the court decision, was laden with problems. We oppose moves to press ahead with the planned restarts under the current circumstances.
だが、司法判断の直前に完了した地元・福井県の同意手続きには問題が多い。このまま再稼働へ進むことには反対だ。
Fifteen nuclear reactors are concentrated in Fukui Prefecture, including some for which decisions have been made for decommissioning.
福井県には廃炉が決まったものも含めて１５基の原子炉が集中する。
Fukui Governor Issei Nishikawa set five conditions for his approval, calling on the central government and Kansai Electric to clearly pinpoint their responsibilities.
西川一誠知事は同意にあたって五つの条件を掲げ、国と関電に責任の明確化を迫った。
Public opinion has consistently been cautious about restarting nuclear reactors following the 2011 disaster at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant. Nishikawa called strongly on the central government to “promote public understanding,” and he obtained Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s assurances that he will ensure that meetings with residents will be held across Japan for that purpose.
福島第一原発事故後、原発再稼働に世論は一貫して慎重だ。西川氏は「国民理解の促進」を国に強く求め、安倍首相から「全国各地で説明会を開く」との言質をとった。
The governor called on Kansai Electric to precisely explain when it plans to build an interim storage facility outside Fukui Prefecture for spent nuclear fuel. The utility said in November that it will locate the site for the facility around 2020 and have it operational around 2030.
関電には使用済み核燃料の中間貯蔵施設を県外につくる時期の明示を求めた。関電は１１月、「２０年ごろに場所を決め、３０年ごろに操業する」と表明した。
Nishikawa said he believes that all his conditions have been met. But the substantiality of those commitments remains questionable.
西川氏は、条件がすべて満たされたとの認識を示した。だがこれらの約束がどれほど内実を伴っているかは疑問だ。
Kansai Electric has said it hopes to install an interim storage facility somewhere in the Kansai region, and it has long been canvassing local governments for their understanding. But resistance to hosting such a facility remains strong, and the building site is not likely to be selected any time soon. There is no denying suspicions that the plan could end up as an empty promise.
関電は以前から「中間貯蔵施設は関西に設置したい」と自治体への説明を続けてきた。しかし反発は強く、めどは立たない。結局は「空手形」ではないか、との疑いが否めない。
Questions also remain on the extent to which Nishikawa has fulfilled his own responsibilities.
一方、西川氏はどこまで自身の責任を果たしたか。
He has never had the prefectural government organize meetings with local residents, saying it is up to the central government and the plant operators to explain the safety and necessity of nuclear plants.
「原発の安全性や必要性は国や事業者に説明責任がある」とし、県主催の住民説明会は開かなかった。
An emergency evacuation plan for areas within a 30-kilometer radius of the Takahama nuclear plant was only worked out earlier this month. That zone contains parts of Kyoto and Shiga prefectures and has a total population of about 180,000.
３０キロ圏に京都、滋賀両府県を含み、計約１８万人が暮らす高浜原発周辺の避難計画は今月まとまったばかり。
But Nishikawa approved the planned restarts without waiting for a drill held across prefectural borders, arguing that working out an emergency evacuation plan is not a legal requisite for restarting a nuclear reactor.
だが西川氏は「法律上、避難計画は再稼働の条件ではない」と述べ、府県境をまたぐ訓練も待たずに同意に踏み切った。
Obtaining the host communities’ approval for a reactor restart should primarily be a process to enhance the safety and peace of mind of local residents.
地元同意は本来、住民の安全と安心を高めるプロセスのはずだ。
It is all too regretful that another undesirable example has been set, following the earlier approvals to restart the Sendai nuclear power plant in Kagoshima Prefecture and the Ikata nuclear power plant in Ehime Prefecture.
だが、九州電力川内原発（鹿児島県）、四国電力伊方原発（愛媛県）に続き、望ましくない「ひな型」がまた一つ増えたのは残念というしかない。
The central government was also quite candid in postulating that restarting nuclear reactors is a foregone conclusion. Industry minister Motoo Hayashi visited Fukui, the capital of Fukui Prefecture, four days before the court decision to ask Nishikawa for his approval.
国の再稼働ありきの姿勢もより露骨だった。林幹雄経済産業相は司法判断の４日前に福井を訪れ西川氏に同意を要請した。
The local governments and residents of communities adjacent to nuclear plants are strongly dissatisfied that they have no say in decisions on reactor restarts. Kansai Electric has rejected the demands of the Kyoto and Shiga prefectural governments for inclusion on the list of “hosting communities,” whose approvals are required for restarting reactors of the Takahama nuclear plant. The central government has only been looking on, arguing that approvals of the hosting communities are not a legal requirement.
原発周辺の自治体や住民には、再稼働の判断に関与できないことへの不満が強い。高浜でも京都、滋賀両府県が立地自治体並みの「同意権」を求めたが、関電は応じていない。国も「地元同意は法令上の要件ではない」と静観するばかりだ。
Abe has said he will provide explanations to gain the public’s understanding of the importance of nuclear power generation. That leads us to believe that he should also be presenting guidelines on the extent and coverage of the “hosting communities,” whose approvals are necessary for nuclear restarts.
安倍首相は「原発の重要性に国民理解が得られるよう説明していく」と述べた。それならば「地元」の範囲についても方向性を示すべきではないか。