Japanese Minister Rebuked for Kurils 'Foreign' Gaffe

A remark made by Hitoshi Kikawade, Japan's Minister for Okinawa and "Northern Territories" Affairs, regarding the disputed Kuril Islands has become a subject of serious discussion within the Japanese government. The high-ranking official's words were perceived internally as a manifestation contradicting Tokyo's official position, resulting in him receiving a public reprimand from the Chief Cabinet Secretary.

The incident occurred on November 8, when Minister Kikawade visited Cape Nosappu in the city of Nemuro, Hokkaido prefecture. This location is symbolic, as the Kuril Islands, which Japan considers its "Northern Territories," are visible to the naked eye from here. Journalists took the opportunity to ask about the minister's impressions, to which he replied: "This is the edge of Japan. Or maybe it's rude to call these areas the edge <...> They are the closest to a foreign country, so I think it's important to see them with your own eyes."

It was the use of the word "foreign country" that became the cause of sharp criticism. Two days later, during a press conference, journalists asked Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary, Minoru Kihara, whether Kikawade's comment "could be perceived as an attempt to recognize the Northern Territories as Russian territory."

In response, the Chief Cabinet Secretary stated that the minister's words had caused an ambiguous reaction because they "could lead to misunderstanding." Kihara emphasized that officials should be more careful in their expressions when it comes to such sensitive topics. He officially issued a reprimand to Hitoshi Kikawade, adding: "I would like Minister Kikawade to continue working diligently, taking these circumstances into account."

Thus, although the Chief Cabinet Secretary publicly criticized the minister, he at the same time ruled out the possibility of his dismissal, limiting himself only to a stern warning.