シリア危機 露には停戦実現の責任がある

The Yomiuri Shimbun
Russia responsible for prevailing on Syrian govt to honor ceasefire
シリア危機　露には停戦実現の責任がある

A ceasefire in the civil war between Syrian President Bashar Assad’s administration and rebel forces is on the brink of collapse just one week after the agreement, mediated by the United States and Russia, took effect. This is a serious situation.
　シリアのアサド政権と反体制派の内戦を巡り、米露が仲介した停戦合意が発効からわずか１週間で崩壊の危機に陥った。深刻な事態である。

The Assad administration, which is supported by Russia, unilaterally announced the end of the truce and resumed an offensive, claiming that its foes did not observe the agreement. The announcement was apparently prompted in part by suspicions that the United States had bombed Syrian government forces by mistake following the ceasefire.
　ロシアの支援を受けるアサド政権が、停戦終了を一方的に宣言した。「反体制派が合意に従わなかった」と主張し、攻撃を再開した。停戦発効後、米軍が政権軍を誤爆した疑いが浮上したことも、背景にあるのだろう。

We cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that a convoy carrying food and medicine was attacked from the air on the outskirts of Aleppo, northern Syria. The attack forced the United Nations to suspend aid shipments.
　看過できないのは、シリア北部アレッポ郊外で、食料や医薬品を運ぶ車列が空爆されたことである。国連は輸送活動の一時停止に追い込まれた。

Roads leading to some sections of Aleppo remain sealed off as government forces besiege them, and hundreds of thousands of residents are isolated and facing air raids and starvation. Didn’t the United States and Russia hurry to reach a ceasefire so as to deliver aid supplies safely and avert a humanitarian crisis?
　アレッポの一部地域は政権軍の包囲作戦により、道路が封鎖されている。住民数十万人が孤立し、爆撃と飢餓に苦しむ。米露が停戦を急いだのは、支援物資を安全に届ける手段を確保し、人道危機を回避するためではなかったか。

The United Nations and other parties concerned naturally condemned the airstrike, describing it as a “flagrant violation” of international law. The United States and Russia have engaged in a mud-slinging battle, with Washington claiming the attack was carried out by Russian or Syrian government aircraft and calling for the perpetrators to be held responsible, while Moscow denied culpability.
　国連などが「極めて悪質な国際法違反」として空爆を非難したのは当然だ。米国は「ロシアもしくは政権軍による攻撃」と断じ、責任を追及した。ロシア側は否定し、泥仕合が続いている。

The two countries also played a leading role in bringing about a truce in February, which lasted only a few months. The Assad administration and rebel groups were supposed to hold peace talks to establish a transitional government by August, but the plan fell through.
　米露は２月にも停戦合意を主導したが、数か月で破綻した。政権と反体制派が和平協議を進め、８月までに移行政権を樹立するという構想もすでに頓挫した。

Don’t maintain status quo

The United States aims at ousting the Assad administration as quickly as possible and forming a new government. Ending the Syrian civil war, which has continued for five years, would allow the international community to focus on defeating the Islamic State of the Iraq and Levant (ISIL) militant group. It also would serve to help resolve the refugee crisis. We consider this a reasonable approach.
　米国は、アサド政権の早期退陣と新政権の発足を目指す。５年に及ぶ内戦を終結させれば、過激派組織「イスラム国」の打倒に国際社会が集中できる態勢が整う。難民問題を収拾する契機にもなる。妥当な考え方と言えよう。

However, Russia’s stance poses a problem.
　問題なのはロシアの姿勢だ。

It places top priority on maintaining the Assad administration, which has been said to have used chemical weapons, and seizing the initiative on the Syrian situation from the United States. Moscow intervened militarily in Syria a year ago on the pretext of eradicating ISIL, and it has carried out airstrikes and other attacks to help government forces come from behind and take the offensive.
　化学兵器使用も指摘されるアサド政権を温存し、シリア情勢の主導権を米国から奪うことを最優先目標としている。１年前に「イスラム国」掃討の名目で軍事介入し、劣勢だった政権軍の反転攻勢を空爆などで後押しした。

Russia has the responsibility and influence to press government forces to observe the ceasefire. It is not acceptable for Moscow to try to maintain the status quo by exploiting the fact that U.S. President Barack Obama has only four months left before leaving office.
　ロシアには、政権軍に停戦を守らせる責務と影響力がある。オバマ米大統領の任期が残り４か月しかないことにつけ込み、現状維持を図る工作は許されまい。

Syria faces an increasingly complex situation in its civil war. Neighboring Turkey has sent tanks across the common border in an effort to prevent the forces of the Kurdish minority, which Ankara regards as a foe, from expanding the areas it controls. An Iranian contingent, meanwhile, is also helping government forces in the civil war. These countries should exercise self-restraint.
　シリアの戦況は複雑さを増している。隣国トルコは、敵対する少数民族クルド人勢力の支配地域の拡大を抑えるため、戦車部隊を越境させた。イランからは、政権軍を支援する組織が参戦している。関係国の自制が求められよう。

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced that Japan would provide about $1.13 billion in aid for residents in Syria and its neighbors. We hope that Japan will continue its efforts to establish conditions to resolve the Syria crisis by making nonmilitary contributions.
　安倍首相は、シリアや周辺国の住民向けに約１１・３億ドルの支援を表明した。日本は引き続き、非軍事面の貢献を通じ、危機を解決する環境の醸成に努めたい。

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 25, 2016)

日米国連演説 連携して対北制裁を強化せよ

The Yomiuri Shimbun
Japan, U.S. must join forces to slap tougher sanctions on North Korea
日米国連演説　連携して対北制裁を強化せよ

What should be done about the North Korean threat, which has entered a new phase? Japan and the United States should cooperate closely and utilize the United Nations effectively.
　新たな段階に入った北朝鮮の脅威に、どう対処するか。日米両国は、緊密に連携し、国連を効果的に活用すべきだ。

Addressing a U.N. General Assembly session, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe denounced North Korea’s nuclear and missile development, saying: “The threat has now reached a dimension altogether different from what has transpired until now. We must thwart North Korea’s plans.”
　安倍首相が国連総会で演説し、北朝鮮の核・ミサイル開発について「これまでと異なる次元に達した。計画をくじかなくてはならない」と非難した。

North Korea has carried out two nuclear tests and launched more than 20 ballistic missiles so far this year. Some of them landed in Japan’s exclusive economic zone.
　北朝鮮は今年、核実験を２回強行した。２０発以上の弾道ミサイルを発射し、日本の排他的経済水域（ＥＥＺ）にも着弾させた。

“It is purely a matter of good fortune that no commercial aircraft or ships suffered any damage during this incident,” Abe said. This comment is right on the money.
　首相が「航空機や船舶に被害がなかったのは全くの偶然に過ぎない」と指摘したのは当然だ。

Pyongyang has repeatedly disregarded the sanctions resolutions adopted against it by the U.N. Security Council. Abe stressed, “The raison d’etre of the United Nations is now truly being tested.” To force North Korea to abandon its ambition of possessing nuclear weapons, imposing tougher sanctions is indispensable.
　北朝鮮は国連安全保障理事会の再三の制裁決議を無視している。首相は「国連の存在意義が問われている」と力説した。核保有の野心を断念させるには、更なる制裁強化が不可欠である。

Abe exchanged views with U.S. President Barack Obama and British Prime Minister Theresa May — leaders of two of the five permanent members of the Security Council — among others. It is of no small significance that Abe has won the cooperation of leaders of these countries to work toward adopting a new resolution on sanctions against North Korea.
　首相は、安保理常任理事国である米国のオバマ大統領、英国のメイ首相らと意見交換した。新たな制裁決議の採択に向けて、協力を確認した意義は小さくない。

The key to adopting a new resolution and ensuring the effectiveness of sanctions is how China, which is passive about additional sanctions, will respond. It is important for Japan, together with the United States and other countries, to press Beijing to join the effort to constrain North Korea.
　新決議の採択と、制裁の実効性確保のカギは、追加制裁に消極的な中国の対応である。米国などとともに、中国に北朝鮮包囲網に加わるよう促すことが重要だ。

Pressure on China key

The 60th anniversary of Japan’s U.N. membership is in December. Japan is currently serving as a nonpermanent member of the Security Council for the 11th time, more than any other U.N. member. Japan’s financial contributions to the United Nations exceed $20 billion.
　今年１２月、日本は国連加盟６０年を迎える。安保理の非常任理事国を加盟国で最多の１１回務めている。支払った国連分担金などの累計は２００億ドルを上回る。

Japan must fulfill its role in tackling the latest North Korean action also from the viewpoint of realizing Security Council reforms and becoming, along with others, a permanent member of that body.
　日本は、安保理改革を実現し、常任理事国入りを目指すうえでも、今回の北朝鮮問題できちんと役割を果たしたい。

In his final U.N. address as U.S. president, Obama also emphasized the need for applying pressure on Pyongyang, saying: “When North Korea tests a bomb that endangers all of us.”
　オバマ氏も任期最後の国連演説で、核実験は「我々すべてを危険にさらす」と述べ、北朝鮮への圧力を強める必要性を強調した。

We cannot overlook the fact that four of five North Korean nuclear tests were conducted while Obama was president of the United States. It is painfully regrettable that his administration failed to apply sufficient pressure on Beijing to rigorously impose sanctions. This eventually led to North Korea making progress in its nuclear and missile development program.
　見過ごせないのは、北朝鮮の５回の核実験のうち、４回がオバマ政権下で実施されたことだ。中国に制裁履行を徹底させられず、核・ミサイル開発の進行を結果的に許したのは痛恨である。

With China’s self-serving expansion of its maritime activities and Russia’s intervention into the affairs of Ukraine in mind, Obama expressed a sense of alarm, saying: “Powerful nations contest the constraints placed on them by international law.”
　オバマ氏は、中国の独善的な海洋進出やロシアのウクライナ介入を念頭に、「強国が国際法に挑んでいる」との危機感も示した。

Reflecting on the war in Iraq waged by the previous Bush administration, Obama’s diplomacy has attached more importance to international collaboration. The Obama administration has achieved results by reinforcing its alliance with two Asian allies — Japan and South Korea. But its influence in the Middle East and vis-a-vis China and Russia has undeniably declined.
　ブッシュ前政権によるイラク戦争の反省から、オバマ外交は国際協調を重視した。日韓との同盟強化で成果を上げたが、中東や対中露での影響力低下は否めない。

While the United States has given up its conventional role as the “world’s policeman,” in which it actively intervened in international disputes, moves to change the status quo by force have intensified. This, in one respect, has led to the emergence of extremist groups, including the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Doesn’t Obama feel regret about such a development?
　「世界の警察官」として紛争に積極介入する役割を米国が回避した隙に、「力による現状変更」の動きが強まり、「イスラム国」などの過激派組織が台頭した側面もある。オバマ氏にも、忸怩じくじたる思いがあるのではないか。

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 23, 2016)

尖閣諸島警備 海保の増強で中国の侵入防げ

The Yomiuri Shimbun
Beef up JCG to deter China’s entry into waters around Senkaku Islands
尖閣諸島警備　海保の増強で中国の侵入防げ

China’s self-serving maritime expansion should not become a fait accompli. It is imperative to strategically reinforce the Japan Coast Guard’s surveillance posture.
　中国の独善的な海洋進出を既成事実化させてはなるまい。海上保安庁の警備態勢を戦略的に増強することが重要だ。

Intrusions by China Coast Guard vessels into Japanese territorial waters and the contiguous zone around the Senkaku Islands have continued. Despite Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s call for self-restraint during a Sept. 5 bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, four Chinese government vessels entered Japanese territorial waters on Sept. 11.
　尖閣諸島周辺で、中国海警局の公船による領海侵入と接続水域進入が続いている。安倍首相が５日の日中首脳会談で自制を求めたのにもかかわらず、１１日には公船４隻が領海に入った。

This is regarded by some people as a spiteful response to Japan’s demand that Beijing abide by international law in resolving territorial disputes in the South China Sea. If this is the case, China’s actions must be regarded as totally misdirected and cannot be ignored.
　南シナ海の領有権問題で、日本が国際法の順守を中国に要求していることへの意趣返しとの見方もある。そうだとすれば、全くの筋違いであり、看過できない。

Navigation by Chinese government vessels through the contiguous zone has become routine since Japan’s nationalization of the Senkakus in September 2012. In August this year, up to 15 government vessels and 200 to 300 fishing boats appeared in the zone at one time. Since December last year, the number of vessels equipped with what appeared to be machine guns has increased.
　中国公船の接続水域航行は、２０１２年９月の尖閣諸島の国有化以降、常態化している。今年８月には、最大１５隻の公船と２００～３００隻の漁船が集結した。昨年１２月からは、機関砲のようなものを搭載した公船も増えている。

Crew members from Chinese government vessels have repeatedly been confirmed to have boarded Chinese fishing boats in Japan’s exclusive economic zone. This indicates that on-the-spot inspections of the fishing boats, among other activities, were carried out by the Chinese authorities based on Chinese law.
　日本の排他的経済水域（ＥＥＺ）内で、中国公船の乗員が中国漁船に乗り込むケースが再三、確認された。中国の法律に基づく立ち入り検査などの可能性がある。

Chinese fishing boats are permitted to operate in Japan’s EEZ under the Japan-China fishery agreement. But the Chinese government is not empowered under international law to exercise its jurisdiction in regard to fishing in this zone.
　ＥＥＺ内では、漁船操業は日中漁業協定で可能だが、中国政府が漁業に関する管轄権を行使することは国際法上、できない。

Constant vigilance vital

To prevent such actions from becoming faits accomplis, JCG patrol boats must monitor the moves of Chinese government vessels constantly and issue immediate and adequate warnings.
　こうした行為の既成事実化を防ぐため、海保の巡視船は常時、中国公船の動向を監視し、迅速かつ適切に警告せねばならない。

To prevent accidental clashes and illegal landings by fishermen and other Chinese, it is essential that the JCG ensures numerical superiority in the number of its patrol boats compared to its Chinese counterpart.
　偶発的な衝突や漁民らの不法上陸を防ぐには、相手の船より数的優位を確保することが肝要だ。

As things stand now, the JCG’s capabilities are not necessarily sufficient.
　しかし、海保の現状は、必ずしも十分とは言えない。

This spring, the JCG established a full-time surveillance system involving 12 patrol boats to safeguard the waters around the Senkakus. This was based on the assumption that they would only have to keep an eye on about five Chinese government vessels. In the event that there are more Chinese government vessels, the JCG receives help from patrol boats dispatched from around Japan.
　海保は今春、尖閣諸島周辺を警備するため、巡視船１２隻の専従体制を整えた。中国公船５隻程度を想定したものだ。より多数の公船が来た際は、全国から巡視船の応援派遣を受け、対応している。

The China Coast Guard has tripled the number of its large patrol boats to 120 in the past three years. The number will be reached to 135 in 2019.
　中国海警局はこの３年で、大型船を３倍増の１２０隻にした。１９年には１３５隻に増やす。

The number of large JCG patrol boats totals only 62. The government appropriated ¥39 billion in the second supplementary budget for fiscal 2016 to build three new patrol boats. This number needs to be increased systematically.
　海保が保有する大型巡視船は６２隻にとどまる。１６年度第２次補正予算案に３隻の新造費３９０億円を計上した。今後も、計画的に増強することが求められよう。

It is essential to increase JCG personnel. At present it has a workforce of 13,500, an increase of about 800 since the nationalization of the Senkakus. Reemployment of former JCG personnel has made progress. It takes several years to train coast guard crew members. Necessary steps must be taken as soon as possible to improve the situation in the future.
　要員の確保も急務である。
　海保の定員は約１万３５００人で、尖閣諸島国有化前より約８００人増員した。元海上保安官の再雇用も進めている。保安官の養成には数年を要する。将来を見据えて早めに手を打つ必要がある。

To avert an emergency, it is also important to establish a communication channel with the Chinese authorities concerned.
　不測の事態を避けるため、中国当局とのパイプ作りも大切だ。

Last year, the JCG and its Chinese counterpart established a contact point in each other’s organization, but this function is not being used. It is necessary to hold talks between the two organizations tenaciously.
　海保と中国海警局は昨年、双方に連絡窓口を設けたが、あまり機能していない。粘り強く意見交換を重ねたい。

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 20, 2016)Speech

日米防衛相会談 北の脅威に共同対処を強めよ

The Yomiuri Shimbun
Bolster Japan-U.S. joint actions to cope with North Korean threats
日米防衛相会談　北の脅威に共同対処を強めよ

It is essential for Tokyo and Washington to establish a closer cooperation system for conducting joint operations flexibly and expeditiously amid the increasingly severe security environment around Japan.
　我が国の安全保障環境が厳しさを増す中、日米両政府がより緊密に連携し、機動的な共同対処を行う体制を構築することが重要である。

Defense Minister Tomomi Inada met with her U.S. counterpart Ashton Carter in Washington to discuss security issues. Regarding North Korea’s repeated nuclear tests and ballistic missile launches, Inada and Carter agreed they pose “grave threats to the national security of both Japan and the United States.”
　稲田防衛相が訪米し、カーター米国防長官と会談した。北朝鮮の相次ぐ核実験や弾道ミサイル発射について、「日米両国に対する安全保障上の重大な脅威である」との認識で一致した。

North Korea has been pushing its nuclear weapons program with the aim of completing and deploying missiles equipped with nuclear warheads. It is necessary to seriously recognize that North Korea’s nuclear miniaturization technology and missile firing accuracy have improved considerably after the repeated tests and launches.
　北朝鮮は、核弾頭を搭載したミサイルの完成、配備を目指し、突き進んでいる。度重なる実験と発射により、核の小型化技術やミサイルの精度は相当程度、向上したと覚悟せねばなるまい。

Carter reaffirmed the United States’ nuclear deterrence for the defense of Japan. This can be regarded as enhancing the deterrence against Pyongyang’s provocations.
　カーター氏は、日本防衛目的の米国の核抑止力を再確認した。北朝鮮の挑発への抑止力を高めるものと評価できる。

It is imperative for the Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. military to steadily expand their range of information sharing and joint warning and surveillance activities. We suggest the encirclement around North Korea be strengthened by making greater efforts to conduct multilateral military exercises and promote defense cooperation with countries including South Korea, Australia and India, in addition to Japan and the United States.
　自衛隊と米軍の情報共有や共同の警戒監視活動を着実に拡大することが大切だ。日米に、韓国、豪州、インドなどを加えた多国間の訓練や防衛協力にも力を入れ、北朝鮮包囲網の強化を図りたい。

With regard to the frequent intrusion of Chinese government vessels into Japanese territorial waters around the Senkaku Islands, Inada said it amounted to an “infringement of Japan’s sovereignty,” so “is absolutely intolerable.”
　尖閣諸島周辺での中国公船の頻繁な領海侵入に関して、稲田氏は「日本の主権侵害であり、断固受け入れられない」と強調した。

Carter reaffirmed that the Senkakus fall under Article 5 of the Japan-U.S. Security Treaty and expressed opposition to China’s unilateral action. This is very significant.
　カーター氏は、尖閣諸島を日米安保条約５条の適用対象と認め、中国の一方的な行動への反対を明言した。その意義は大きい。

Strengthen encirclement

Regarding China’s militarization of man-made islands in the South China Sea, Inada and Carter shared the view that it amounts to an act that heightens regional tensions and is a matter of concern for the international community.
　南シナ海での中国の軍事拠点化について、両氏は、「地域の緊張を高める行動で、国際社会の懸念事項だ」との認識を共有した。

Beijing has not changed its stance of disregarding an arbitration court ruling in July that invalidated Chinese sovereignty claims in the South China Sea. Any attempt to change the status quo by force and to make it a fait accompli cannot be allowed. Both Japan and the United States should continue assisting coastal nations of the South China Sea to enhance their maritime security capabilities through the provision of patrol boats and fostering personnel.
　中国は、７月の仲裁裁判所判決を無視する構えを崩していない。力による現状変更の既成事実化は許されない。日米両国は、巡視船の供与や人材育成を通じて、南シナ海沿岸国の海上保安能力の向上を引き続き支援するべきだ。

At a lecture in Washington, Inada strongly endorsed the patrol activities of U.S. military vessels around the artificial islands built by China in the South China Sea. She also mentioned a plan for Japan to increase its engagement there, including through joint naval exercises with the U.S. military.
　稲田氏は、ワシントンでの講演で、中国の人工島周辺における米軍艦船の巡視活動を強く支持した。日本が、米軍との共同巡航訓練などを通じて、南シナ海への関与を強める方針も表明した。

To prompt China to exercise self-restraint in expanding its maritime advances backed by military force, it is imperative for not only the United States but also Japan and other relevant countries to work together actively and apply pressure on China.
　軍事力を背景とした中国の海洋進出に自制を促すには、米国だけでなく、日本や関係国が積極的に協調行動を取り、中国に圧力をかけることが欠かせない。

Concerning the issue of relocating the U.S. Marine Corps’ Futenma Air Station, Inada reassured Carter the Japanese government’s position that “the relocation to the Henoko district is the only solution” is unchanged. She called for U.S. cooperation in tackling the issue of moving Osprey transport aircraft training sites outside Okinawa Prefecture. Carter took a forward-looking stance toward her request.
　米軍普天間飛行場の移設問題に関し、稲田氏は会談で、辺野古移設が「唯一の解決策との立場は不変である」と強調した。米軍輸送機オスプレイの訓練の沖縄県外移転について協力要請し、カーター氏も前向きな考えを示した。

To ensure the continued and smooth stationing of U.S. troops in Japan — the bedrock of the bilateral alliance — the two countries must make greater efforts to reduce the burden on Okinawa.
　日米同盟の根幹である米軍の駐留を円滑に続けるため、両国は沖縄の負担軽減に一層努めたい。

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 17, 2016)

北ミサイル対策 敵基地攻撃能力も検討したい

The Yomiuri Shimbun
To cope with North Korean missiles, discuss SDF’s strike capabilities
北ミサイル対策　敵基地攻撃能力も検討したい

The threat of North Korea’s nuclear arsenal and missiles has entered a new dimension. Japan needs to build up its defense system commensurate with the increased threat.
　北朝鮮の核とミサイルの脅威が新たな次元に入った。それに見合う日本の防衛体制を構築することが急務である。

Committees of both houses of the Diet adopted resolutions denouncing the latest nuclear test by North Korea as a “direct threat to the safety of this country.”
　衆参両院の委員会が、北朝鮮の核実験を「我が国の安全に対する直接的脅威」と非難する決議を採択した。

North Korea has rapidly been improving its nuclear and missile technologies, conducting two nuclear tests and firing more than 20 ballistic missiles this year alone. It is necessary to prepare for such a contingency as Pyongyang’s deploying missiles mounted with nuclear warheads.
　北朝鮮は、今年だけでも２回の核実験と２０発以上の弾道ミサイル発射により、核・ミサイル技術を急速に向上させている。核を搭載したミサイルの配備という深刻な事態にも備える必要がある。

Japan’s missile defense system comprises two tiers of preparedness: Standard Missile 3 (SM3) interceptors carried by four Aegis vessels and the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC3) surface-to-air guided missiles. The government plans to increase the number of Aegis vessels to eight, while also introducing next-generation interceptor missiles.
　我が国のミサイル防衛は、イージス艦４隻に搭載する迎撃ミサイルＳＭ３と地対空誘導弾ＰＡＣ３の二段構えで構成される。イージス艦を８隻に増やし、次世代型迎撃ミサイルも導入する方針だ。

Reinforcement of the missile defense structure is important. However, if Japan were attacked by a large number of missiles simultaneously, it would be impossible to bring down all the missiles.
　ミサイル防衛の強化は重要だ。ただ、多数のミサイルで同時に攻撃された場合、すべてを完全に撃ち落とすことは困難だろう。

To secure its safety, Japan should not rule out the option of the Self-Defense Forces acquiring the capability to attack enemy bases. Under the Constitution, attacks on enemy bases are allowed as self-defense measures if there is an imminent danger of a missile launch.
　日本の安全確保には、自衛隊が敵基地攻撃能力を保持する選択肢を排除すべきではあるまい。憲法上も、ミサイル発射が切迫した状況での敵基地の攻撃は、自衛措置として容認されている。

U.S. cooperation essential

Presently, the SDF serves as a “shield,” engaged only in defense, while U.S. forces serve as a “pike” for retaliatory attacks. U.S. forces, including the U.S. 7th Fleet, maintain a large number of missiles capable of directly attacking North Korea. The SDF supplementing part of the U.S. military’s striking power would enhance the deterrence power of the Japan-U.S. alliance.
　現在、自衛隊は専守防衛の「盾」、米軍は報復攻撃の「矛」の役割を担う。米軍の第７艦隊などは北朝鮮を直接攻撃できる大量のミサイルを保有している。その打撃力の一部を自衛隊が補完することは日米同盟の抑止力を高めよう。

In 2013, the government discussed the possibility of acquiring the capability to attack enemy bases. The new National Defense Program Guidelines stipulate that the government will continue to study “a potential form of response capability” to deal with ballistic missiles.
　政府は２０１３年に敵基地攻撃能力の保持を検討した。新たな防衛大綱では、弾道ミサイルへの「対応能力の在り方」を引き続き検討する方針を明記している。

Envisaged means of attack include a cruise missile system guided with the Global Positioning System to strike targets and F-35 stealth fighter jets.
　攻撃手段は、全地球測位システム（ＧＰＳ）で目標に誘導する巡航ミサイルや、ステルス性を持つ戦闘機Ｆ３５などが想定される。

Cruise missiles attacking enemy bases from a distance are considered to entail little human risk and low cost. On the other hand, targets must be inputted in advance to guide missiles, making it difficult for the cruise missile system to strike Rodong and other missiles that can be launched from mobile launching pads.
　遠方から攻撃する巡航ミサイルは人的リスクが少なく、費用も安いという。反面、目標の位置を事前に入力するため、ノドンなど移動式発射台への攻撃は難しい。

F-35s that would enter enemy airspace are capable of attacking such mobile targets. But because this would entail the risks of breaking through the enemy’s air defense system, it is vital to have an air force unit that includes support fighter jets, electronic warfare planes and airborne refueling aircraft. This would entail a sizable expense.
　敵の領空に侵入するＦ３５は、移動する目標の攻撃も可能だ。ただし、防空網を突破する危険を伴うため、支援戦闘機や電子戦機、空中給油機などの航空部隊が不可欠で、相当な費用を要しよう。

It is important to discuss optimal measures by studying both the strong and weak points of each means of attack and considering the cost-effectiveness of each.
　それぞれの攻撃手段の長所や短所を研究し、費用対効果も踏まえて、どんな方策が最善なのかを議論することが大切である。

Needless to say, it is unrealistic for the SDF to attack enemy bases single-handedly. The cooperation of the U.S. military for such activities as intelligence gathering and detecting potential targets is essential. The important thing is to reexamine the roles to be shared by the SDF and the U.S. military, based strictly on the assumption of close cooperation between Japan and the United States.
　無論、自衛隊単独での攻撃は非現実的だ。攻撃目標の探知など情報面を含め、米軍の協力が欠かせない。あくまで日米の緊密な連携を前提に、自衛隊と米軍の役割分担を見直すことが肝心である。

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 15, 2016)

蓮舫氏の台湾籍 「二重国籍」への認識が甘い

The Yomiuri Shimbun
Renho’s lack of awareness regarding ‘dual nationality’ problematic
蓮舫氏の台湾籍　「二重国籍」への認識が甘い

It is nothing but a sorry state of affairs that a Diet member failed to correctly understand her own nationality.
　国会議員が自らの国籍を正確に把握できていないとは、あまりにお粗末と言うほかない。

Renho, acting leader of the opposition Democratic Party, admitted at a press conference Tuesday that she retains Taiwan citizenship. Taiwan is her father’s birthplace.
　民進党の蓮舫代表代行が記者会見し、台湾籍を保有していたことを認めた。台湾は父親の出身地だ。

Until that day, Renho had explained that she had renounced her Taiwan citizenship when she obtained Japanese citizenship in January 1985. After she filed her candidacy for the DP leadership election, it was pointed out that she may have dual citizenship. She then reportedly had the Taiwan side check whether she still possessed Taiwan citizenship, and it turned out she did.
　蓮舫氏はこれまで、１９８５年１月に日本国籍を取得した際、台湾籍を放棄した、と説明してきた。党代表選への出馬後、二重保有ではないかとの指摘を受けて、台湾側に確認し、判明したという。

It has transpired that Renho let this abnormal state of affairs go uncorrected for more than 30 years. “I have caused various sorts of confusion because of my inaccurate memory,” she said in apology. Renho said she would retake the procedures to renounce her Taiwan citizenship. This response, however, came too late.
　結果的に、３０年超も不正常な状態を放置してきたことになる。蓮舫氏は「私の記憶の不正確さによって様々な混乱を招いた」と陳謝し、改めて放棄手続きを進めるというが、遅きに失した対応だ。

The Japanese government does not allow “dual nationality.” The Nationality Law stipulates that a Japanese national with dual nationality must choose one, in principle, before they reach 22 years of age.
　日本政府は「二重国籍」を認めていない。国籍法で、原則２２歳までに、自らの国籍を選択しなければならない、と定めている。

Although there is no provision excluding people with a foreign nationality from becoming a Diet member, they are prohibited from being appointed as diplomatic officials. It is out of the question for a legislator — who is supposed to serve the interests of the nation, including in foreign affairs and national security — to leave their own nationality obscure.
　外国籍保有者が国会議員になることを排除する規定はないが、外交官への採用は禁止されている。外交・安全保障などの国益を担う国会議員が、自身の国籍を曖昧にしておくことは論外である。

Renho said that at 17 she undertook procedures to renounce her Taiwan citizenship at Taiwan’s de facto embassy, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan. She failed to confirm that the procedures were completed. Renho, who also failed to confirm this when she ran in the 2004 House of Councillors election, has such little understanding of what it means to be a politician that her quality as one will be put into question.
　蓮舫氏は、１７歳当時、台湾の大使館に当たる台北駐日経済文化代表処で行ったとされる放棄手続きの完了を確認しなかった。２００４年参院選の出馬時にも、その作業を怠った。政治家として認識が甘く、資質が問われよう。

Flip-flopping explanations

Although Taiwan is friendly toward Japan, it is in conflict with the Japanese standpoint regarding some issues, for instance, its ownership claims on the Senkaku Islands. If Renho retains her Taiwan citizenship, she could become the target of undesirable suspicions regarding her relations with Taiwan.
　台湾は親日的とはいえ、尖閣諸島の領有権を主張するなど、日本の立場と相反する問題もある。台湾籍があれば、台湾との関係であらぬ疑念を招きかねない。

That Renho’s explanations have been inconsistent is not to be overlooked.
　見過ごせないのは、蓮舫氏の説明が二転三転したことだ。

Initially, she asserted that she “had renounced Taiwan citizenship.” She even showed displeasure, saying: “It is very sad that the rumors are making their rounds.” Later, however, the age she said she took the procedures changed from 18 to 17. An interview carried in a magazine about 20 years ago came to light in which she referred to possessing Taiwan citizenship.
　当初は「台湾籍は抜いた」と断言し、「うわさの流布は本当に悲しい」と不快感さえ示した。その後、手続きをした年齢が１８歳から１７歳に変わったり、台湾籍保有に言及した約２０年前の雑誌インタビューが発覚したりした。

Some have also pointed out that the description she made on an official list of the details of electoral candidates for the upper house election ran counter to the Public Offices Election Law. Her description said she “became naturalized from Taiwan citizenship.”
　参院選の公報に「台湾籍から帰化」と記したことが公職選挙法に抵触する、との指摘もある。

Saying that “there is no illegality,” Renho emphasized that she will not withdraw her candidacy in the DP leadership election. She must further clarify all the facts and be accountable.
　蓮舫氏は「違法性はない」として、代表選から撤退しない考えを強調した。事実関係をより明確にし、説明責任を果たすべきだ。

DP leader Katsuya Okada said, “It would be extremely unsound if the recent commotion partly stems from such a way of thinking as, it is inappropriate because her father is from Taiwan.”
　岡田代表は、「父が台湾人だからおかしいという発想が一連の騒ぎにあるとすると、極めて不健全なことだ」と主張している。

That such a twisted interpretation can be heard within the party, whereby criticism toward Renho could be taken as a form of racial discrimination, is hard to understand. What is being considered as problematic lies absolutely with the fact that Renho failed to take necessary procedures in accordance with the law.
　民進党内に、蓮舫氏への批判が民族差別であるかのような曲解があるのは理解に苦しむ。問題にされているのは、あくまで蓮舫氏が法に基づく手続きを適切に行っていなかったことだからだ。

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 14, 2016)

香港議会選 習氏の圧力が「反中派」生んだ

The Yomiuri Shimbun
Xi’s increasing pressure spawns ‘anti-China forces’ in Hong Kong
香港議会選　習氏の圧力が「反中派」生んだ

The heavy-handed posture of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s administration appears to have led to the rise of “anti-China” forces in Hong Kong.
中国の習近平政権の強権的な姿勢が、香港における「反中」勢力の台頭を招いたのだろう。

Continuing progress in democratization and political reforms is essential to maintaining Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity, rather than reinforcing a clampdown.
香港の安定と繁栄を維持するには、締め付けの強化ではなく、民主化の前進と政治改革が欠かせない。

In the recent elections for Hong Kong’s Legislative Council, newly emerging, anti-Beijing forces making such radical calls as “independence” from China have made headway.
香港の議会に当たる立法会の選挙で、中国からの「独立」など、急進的な主張を掲げる新興の反中勢力が躍進した。

For the 70-member legislature, 35 candidates are directly elected by voters, while the remainder are chosen through functional constituencies, mainly those representing particular professions or trades.
定数７０の半数は直接選挙枠で、残りは業界団体などによる職能枠で選ばれる。

The newly emerging forces, which made a strong showing in direct voting, and the pro-democracy camp won a combined total of 30 seats, more than one-third of the seats needed to vote down important bills. The pro-Beijing camp managed to retain a majority, but won fewer seats than in previous elections.
直接選挙枠で健闘した新興勢力と、民主派が計３０議席を獲得し、重要議案の否決に必要な３分の１を超えた。親中派は過半数を確保したが、議席を減らした。

In 2014, student-led demonstrators calling for democracy staged sit-ins on roads. It can be said the latest elections indicate that the Hong Kong people are increasing their watchfulness against China’s ever-growing influence, even after the demonstrations were resolved peacefully.
一昨年、学生らが民主化を求めて道路を占拠した。デモ収束後も強まる中国の影響力への香港住民の警戒を示したと言えよう。

The newly emerging groups are led by young people, including a former student leader of the demonstration, and those “localists” who, in opposition to China’s political interference, put Hong Kong’s interests first as they consider the territory their “motherland.” Among localists, some even approve of the use of violence.
新興勢力は若い世代が中心だ。デモの元学生指導者のほか、中国の政治干渉に反対し、「郷土」と位置づける香港の利益を最優先する「本土派」が含まれる。本土派には暴力を容認する者もいる。

China has granted Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy under the “one country, two systems” formula. The problem is that autonomy has increasingly become a mere formality.
香港では「一国二制度」の下に、「高度な自治」が認められている。問題なのは、その形骸化が一段と進んでいることである。

Anxieties will increase

The Electoral Affairs Commission of Hong Kong took such high-handed measures as pressing candidates to sign a declaration that they agree to the principle that “Hong Kong is part of China” and disqualifying some localists from running.
香港の選挙管理委員会は「香港は中国の一部分」という原則に関する「確認書」への署名を候補者に迫り、本土派ら数人の出馬資格を取り消す強硬策に出た。

When five Hong Kong booksellers and other people dealing with publications critical of the Chinese Communist Party disappeared one after another, it was regarded as an instance of “rule by force.” Deep suspicions remain that the Chinese authorities had removed them from Hong Kong, where they had no right to investigate, and detained them in China.
中国共産党に批判的な書籍を扱う香港の書店関係者５人が相次いで失踪した事件も、「力の統治」の表れだと受け止められている。中国当局が捜査権限もない香港から関係者を連行、拘束したといった疑惑が深まったままだ。

Without a convincing explanation, it is inevitable for Hong Kong people to grow more anxious about their future.
納得できる説明がなければ、香港住民の間に将来への不安が広がるのは避けられまい。

In June last year, a bill designed to elect the next chief executive of Hong Kong through “universal suffrage” was rejected by a majority of pro-democracy lawmakers. Although the bill was aimed at directly electing the chief executive through a one-man, one-vote formula, it was a system under which only pro-Beijing candidates could declare candidacy. This proposed method was naturally rejected as “phony universal suffrage.”
次期行政長官を「普通選挙」で決める法案が昨年６月、民主派議員の反対多数で否決された。「１人１票」の直接選挙とはいえ、親中派しか立候補できない仕組みだった。「ニセの普通選挙」と拒否されても仕方がなかろう。

Regarding the outcome of the latest elections, the Xi administration released a statement saying that Beijing would “resolutely oppose any form of Hong Kong independence activities inside or outside the legislature.” It appears that the Xi administration intends to drive a wedge between the pro-democracy camp and newly emerging forces, and stop them from joining hands.
習政権は選挙結果について、「立法会内外のいかなる形式の『香港独立』活動にも断固反対する」との談話を発表した。民主派と新興勢力を分断し、結束を阻む思惑があるのではないか。

It would not be implausible for localists and other groups to become offended by Beijing’s hard-line posture and become increasingly antagonistic to Hong Kong authorities.
中国の強硬姿勢に本土派などが反発し、香港当局との対立が先鋭化する事態が懸念される。

What Xi should do is respect Hong Kong’s autonomy and win the trust of the international community.
習国家主席に求められるのは、香港の「自治」を尊重し、国際社会の信頼を得ることである。

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 13, 2016)

日比首脳会談 中国の海洋権益拡大に警戒を

The Yomiuri Shimbun
Japan, Philippines must stay watchful over China’s maritime expansion
日比首脳会談　中国の海洋権益拡大に警戒を

Countries concerned should take concerted action and strengthen their cooperation over how to handle China’s continuing self-serving maritime advances.
　独善的な海洋進出を続ける中国に対し、関係国は足並みを乱さず、連携を強化すべきだ。

In Laos, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has held his first talks with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and unveiled a plan to provide two 90-meter patrol vessels to Manila. The vessels will be constructed in Japan, financed through yen loans totaling up to about ¥16.4 billion and delivered to the Philippine Coast Guard.
　安倍首相はラオスで、フィリピンのドゥテルテ大統領と初めて会談し、９０メートル級の大型巡視船２隻を供与する方針を伝えた。最大約１６４億円の円借款を基に日本で建造し、フィリピン沿岸警備隊に提供する。

The poor maritime security capabilities of nations facing the South China Sea have allowed China to unilaterally establish a military foothold in the region. Duterte expressed gratitude for the new ships, saying they would enable the Philippines to strengthen its patrols and boost its presence in the area.
　南シナ海では、沿岸国の海上警備能力が低く、中国の一方的な軍事拠点化を許していた。ドゥテルテ氏は、「パトロール強化が可能になり、フィリピンの存在感が向上する」と謝意を表した。

Japan also is providing 10 40-meter patrol boats to the Philippines. Combined with these larger vessels, which are capable of traveling long distances, they should be effective in keeping China in check to a certain extent.
　４０メートル級の巡視艇１０隻の供与に続き、航続距離の長い大型巡視船がフィリピンに加われば、中国への一定の牽制けんせい効果を持とう。

During the Abe-Duterte talks, Japan formally decided to lend up to five of the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s TC-90 training aircraft to the Philippines. Japan will also help train the flight crews and maintain the aircraft, which will be useful in disaster relief operations and transporting supplies. We hope this support will be expanded in the future.
　海上自衛隊の練習機ＴＣ９０を最大５機貸与することも正式決定した。整備や要員の訓練も日本が協力する。災害救援や輸送にも役立つ。今後も支援を拡大したい。

During the meeting, Duterte said the ruling handed down by an arbitration court that rejected China’s claims over the South China Sea should be respected. However, Duterte also said he was willing to have talks with China.
　南シナ海での中国の主権を否定した仲裁裁判所判決について、ドゥテルテ氏は会談で、「裁判結果は尊重されるべきだ」と強調した。ただ、「中国との対話は今後も行っていく」とも述べた。

Scarborough Shoal a concern

It is said that China has refused to recognize the ruling and wants to bring about an advantageous agreement through bilateral negotiations with the Philippines. If Manila easily yields concessions on this issue, China’s construction of artificial islands in the South China Sea, and the militarization of those islands, could become an accomplished fact.
　中国は、判決を棚上げし、フィリピンとの２国間協議で有利な合意に持ち込みたい考えとされる。フィリピンが安易に妥協すれば、中国の人工島造成や軍事拠点が既成事実化されかねない。

Establishing the rule of law in the South China Sea will benefit the entire international community. The Philippines needs to work closely with Japan, the United States and other nations with a stake in this issue.
　南シナ海における「法の支配」の確立は国際社会全体の利益だ。フィリピンは、日米など関係国と緊密に協調する必要がある。

It is worrying that China has dispatched dredging vessels and other equipment near Scarborough Shoal, which is close to the Philippines. There are fears China might start reclamation work around the shoal and construct an artificial island.
　懸念すべきは、中国が、フィリピンに近いスカボロー礁周辺に浚渫しゅんせつ船などを派遣したとされることだ。新たに埋め立てを行い、人工島を造成する恐れがある。

If China installs radar installations and builds a runway on the shoal, the range of its fighter jets would grow to cover the entire South China Sea. It also could lead to the establishment of an air defense identification zone.
　レーダー施設や滑走路を整備すれば、戦闘機の活動範囲が南シナ海全域に広がり、防空識別圏の設定にもつながりかねない。

It was regrettable that a bilateral meeting between U.S. President Barack Obama and Duterte was canceled after Duterte insulted Obama with an offensive remark.
　ドゥテルテ氏がオバマ米大統領を下品な言葉で罵ののしり、米比首脳会談が中止されたのは、残念だ。

Strained U.S.-Philippine ties will only benefit China. We hope they quickly normalize relations.
　両国のぎくしゃくした関係は中国を利するだけである。関係の正常化を急いでもらいたい。

Duterte’s foreign policies have yet to become clear, and a new administration will soon take office in the United States. It appears China is aiming to expand its maritime interests during this period.
　ドゥテルテ氏の外交政策が不透明で、米国も政権移行期に入る。この時期に、海洋権益を拡大するのが中国の狙いではないか。

The Obama administration has warned China that it will take unprecedentedly tough steps if China starts building an artificial island at Scarborough Shoal. To more effectively urge China to exercise self-restraint, it is important that the international community — not just the United States — shows unity and speaks up about this issue.
　オバマ政権は中国に対し、スカボロー礁で人工島造成に着手した場合、従来にない厳しい措置を取ると警告している。より効果的に中国に自制を促すには、米国だけでなく、国際社会が結束して声を上げることが大切である。

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 8, 2016)

日中首脳会談 関係改善には緊張緩和が要る

The Yomiuri Shimbun
First ease tension to start improving bilateral ties between Japan and China
日中首脳会談　関係改善には緊張緩和が要る

For all the differences in what both sides assert, it is essential for Japan and China to make efforts to build trust through constructive dialogue.
　双方の主張に相違点はあっても、建設的な対話を通じて、信頼醸成を図ることが肝要である。

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Hangzhou, China, on Monday and both agreed to work to improve ties between the two countries. It was their third bilateral talk and the first since April 2015.
　安倍首相は中国・杭州で、習近平国家主席と会談し、関係改善に努力することで一致した。両氏の会談は２０１５年４月以来で、３回目だ。

Abe and Xi also agreed that the two countries will accelerate discussions on soon putting into operation a “maritime and air liaison mechanism” aimed at preventing accidental clashes between the Self-Defense Forces and Chinese forces in the East China Sea.
　東シナ海での自衛隊と中国軍の偶発的な衝突を防ぐ「海空連絡メカニズム」の早期運用へ協議を加速させることでも合意した。

Included among the mechanism’s main pillars are establishing a hotline between the Japanese and Chinese defense authorities, and enabling naval vessels and aircraft of both countries to communicate directly on site if they get close to each other.
防衛当局間のホットラインの設置や、艦艇・航空機が接近した際の直接通信などが柱である。

There was a series of incidents around the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture in June, in which Chinese military vessels sailed in the contiguous zone around the islands and its military aircraft flew close by.
　尖閣諸島周辺では６月、中国軍艦の接続水域進入や中国軍機の接近が相次いだ。

To avoid any untoward incident, the defense authorities of both countries should put the finishing touches on the talks so as to hurry the launch of the mechanism’s operations.
不測の事態を避けるため、当局間の詰めの協議を行い、運用開始を急ぎたい。

Regarding such incidents as Chinese government vessels entering Japan’s territorial waters, Abe said they would be construed as “actions that will unilaterally escalate tension,” rightly calling on China to improve the situation.
　中国公船による領海侵入などを巡り、首相が「一方的に緊張をエスカレートさせる行動だ」と改善を求めたのは当然である。

Take concrete action

Xi responded by saying that the two countries should “properly handle the issue via dialogue and consultation.” But it would only be reasonable for China to first restrain itself in terms of deeds. To fully mend the bilateral relations between Japan and China, it is vital to ease tension.
　習氏は「対話と協議を通じて適切に対応すべきだ」と語ったが、中国がまず行動を自制するのが筋だ。日中関係を本格的に修復するには、緊張緩和が欠かせない。

During the talks, Abe and Xi also agreed that the two countries will hold discussions on resuming negotiations on the joint development of gas fields in the East China Sea.
　会談では、東シナ海のガス田共同開発の交渉再開に向けて、両国が協議することも決まった。

China has been developing the fields unilaterally, reneging on a 2008 bilateral accord. The accord must be carried out sincerely.
中国は０８年の合意を反故ほごにし、勝手に開発を続けている。合意は誠実に履行せねばなるまい。

Referring to China’s moves to militarize artificial islands in the South China Sea, Abe urged China to abide by the international law and make efforts to dispel concern among neighboring countries.
　首相は、中国が軍事拠点化を進める南シナ海問題について、国際法のルールを守り、周辺国などの不安解消に努めるよう促した。

It is unacceptable that Xi hit back against Abe’s call by saying, “Japan should exercise prudence in its words and deeds.” Ensuring the safety of sea lanes is a common benefit to the international community.
　容認できないのは、習氏が「日本は言葉と行動を慎むべきだ」などと抗弁したことである。海上交通路（シーレーン）の安全確保は国際社会共通の利益だ。

During the talks, Abe brought up the issue of North Korea firing three ballistic missiles into waters off the coast of Hokkaido. He called on Xi to cooperate in “taking concrete steps against North Korea’s repeated provocations.”
　首相は会談で、北朝鮮が弾道ミサイル３発を北海道沖に落下させた問題を提起した。「度重なる挑発行動に対し、具体的措置を講じるべきだ」と、習氏に求めた。

China, which is a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council, has a certain amount of influence on North Korea. China fulfilling its responsibilities could constitute a step forward in the bilateral cooperation between Japan and China.
　中国は国連安全保障理事会の常任理事国で、北朝鮮に一定の影響力を持つ。その責任を果たすことが日中連携の一歩となり得る。

China has suffered a series of diplomatic setbacks in its foreign policy lately: a ruling by the court of arbitration categorically dismissed Beijing’s claim of sovereignty in the South China Sea; and its relations with South Korea have deteriorated.
　中国外交は、南シナ海での自国の主権を全面否定する仲裁裁判所の判決が出たり、対韓関係の悪化を招いたり、失点が続く。

The success of the summit of the Group of 20 major economies, which Xi chaired, was a challenge vital for China to recover its own prestige.
　習氏が議長を務める主要２０か国・地域（Ｇ２０）首脳会議の成功は、自らの威信を回復するために不可欠な課題だった。

Some believe that after the end of the G-20 summit talks, China will take a more hard-line stance in both the East China Sea and the South China Sea. Wouldn’t it be to China’s advantage to contribute to the stability of Asia, rather than intensify friction with its neighboring countries?
　会議終了後には、中国が東・南シナ海で強硬姿勢を一段と打ち出すとの見方もある。近隣国との摩擦を強めるのでなく、アジアの安定に貢献することこそが自国の利益にもなるのではないか。

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 7, 2016)

Ｇ２０首脳宣言 中国の「有言実行」が問われる

The Yomiuri Shimbun
China being tested over whether it will actually live up to G-20 accords
Ｇ２０首脳宣言　中国の「有言実行」が問われる

It is essential to raise the growth potential of the global economy by steadily promoting structural reform and free trade, thereby putting the global economy on a sustainable recovery path.
　構造改革や自由貿易の着実な推進によって、世界経済の成長力を底上げし、持続的な回復軌道に乗せねばならない。

The Group of 20 major economies wrapped up its summit meeting Monday after holding a two-day session in Hangzhou, China.
　２日にわたって中国・杭州で開かれた主要２０か国・地域（Ｇ２０）首脳会議が閉幕した。

In a communique issued after the summit, the G-20 leaders warn that global growth is weaker than anticipated and that downside risks exist. The communique also mentions that all three policy tools of monetary and fiscal policies, and structural reform must be used separately or collectively.
　首脳宣言で「世界経済の成長は期待よりも弱く、下方リスクが存在する」との危機感を表明した。金融政策、財政出動、構造改革の全てを「個別にまた総合的に活用する」とも明記している。

Given Britain’s decision to leave the European Union and the decline in the prices of resources, both advanced and emerging economies lack the power to serve as an engine for global economic growth.
　英国の欧州連合（ＥＵ）離脱決定や資源価格の下落によって、先進国、新興国の双方とも成長の牽引けんいん力に欠けるのが現状だ。

The G-20 communique adhered to the agreements reached at the Ise-Shima Summit of the Group of Seven advanced nations hosted by Japan in May. It is highly significant that the G-20 economies, including emerging and oil-producing countries with different economic powers, have shared common views on the global economy.
　首脳宣言は、先進７か国による５月の伊勢志摩サミットの合意を踏襲した。経済の実力が異なる新興国や産油国などを含むＧ２０が認識を共有した意味は大きい。

The crucial point is for all G-20 countries to play their role.
　肝心なのは、各国が役割をきっちりと果たすことである。

During the G-20 summit, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said it was important for all the countries to demonstrate their commitment through concrete action. It was natural for him to make such a statement.
　安倍首相が会議で「各国の具体的行動へとつなげていくことが重要だ」と発言したのは当然だ。

The key to reinvigorating the global economy is likely to be promotion of structural reforms to enhance productivity and boost growth.
　世界経済の活性化へカギを握るのは、生産性を高めて成長を後押しする構造改革の推進だろう。

Japan has announced plans to reform ways of working, including correcting long working practices and realizing equal pay for equal work. Fulfillment of the Abenomics economic policy package will lead to realization of the G-20 agreements.
　日本は、長時間労働の是正や同一労働同一賃金の実現など「働き方改革」を断行すると表明した。アベノミクスの履行がＧ２０合意を実現することになる。

Key structural issue

The communique took up excessive production of steel and other products as a serious structural problem for the first time.
　首脳宣言は初めて、深刻な構造問題として鉄鋼などの過剰生産を取り上げた。

The overproduction issue was triggered by China, which has kept protecting loss-making state-owned companies. There have been rampant increases in the number of these so-called zombie firms, which have actually gone bankrupt but have continued to be supported by the Chinese authorities, posing a risk to the global economy.
　震源地は、不採算の国有企業を温存する中国である。実質的に破綻しながら当局が支え続ける「ゾンビ企業」が横行し、世界経済のリスク要因となっている。

It was agreed during the summit to set up an international framework to promote information-sharing in a bid to resolve the overproduction issue. Because China served as the host nation to work out the agreement, China will be required to carry out its commitments in deed.
　会議では、過剰生産の解消に向けて情報共有を進める国際的な枠組みの設立で合意した。議長国としてまとめた以上、中国の「有言実行」が求められる。

As for free trade, which is indispensable to economic expansion, the G-20 agreed to reject all forms of protectionism.
　経済の発展に不可欠な自由貿易については「あらゆる形態の保護主義への反対」で一致した。

In the United States, both the Republican and Democratic presidential nominees have expressed opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade framework. In emerging economies, import restrictions to protect their domestic industries have been invoked one after another.
　米国では大統領選候補がそろって環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）への反対を表明している。新興国では、自国産業を守る輸入制限の発動が相次いでいる。

Signatories to the TPP agreement, including Japan and the United States, must promote early ratification of the accord while emerging economies must exercise self-restraint on excessive import restrictions. Each G-20 nation must work toward advancing free trade.
　日米などＴＰＰ関係国は早期批准に取り組む。新興国は過度の輸入制限措置を自粛する。Ｇ２０各国がそれぞれ、自由貿易を進展させなければならない。

A questionable point is that China guided G-20 discussions into concentrating on economic issues in a bid to avoid discussions over the South China Sea, where it has been building military strongholds. If China remains indifferent to regional stability, it is doubtful whether the country will fulfill its commitment to economic cooperation, too.
　疑問なのは、中国が議論を経済に集中させ、自らが軍事拠点化を進める南シナ海問題の封印を図ったことだ。地域の安定から目をそらしたままでは、経済連携も実効性が疑われよう。

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 6, 2016)