[Title] Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs Masahiko Koumura on Easing of Sanctions on North Korea by the U.S.
1. The Government of Japan supports the announcement of the U.S. Government on September 17 (U.S. Eastern time) that it would ease some of its sanctions on North Korea, as this action represents a step towards improved relations between the U.S. and North Korea.
2. Recognizing that the U.S. Government has taken this action to invite North Korea's further positive response under the "comprehensive and integrated approach" developed jointly by Japan, the U.S. and the Republic of Korea, the Government of Japan strongly hopes that this will further advance the relationship between the U.S. and North Korea.
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