ICC sanctions ``deeply concerned'' Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara emphasizes rule of law

On the 11th, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said on an NHK program that Japan consistently supports international courts, including the International Court of Justice (ICJ), regarding the US Trump administration's sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC), adding, ``This is not compatible with Japan's position, and we are deeply concerned.'' ``Japan's stance is to continue working to strengthen the rule of law in the international community,'' he said.

A delegation of 21 countries including Japan calls for immediate withdrawal of US ICC sanctions.

He also mentioned that the Presidency of the CC Parties, which includes Japan, had issued a statement calling for an immediate withdrawal, and praised the decision as ``taking into account Japan's position.''

Regarding the consumption tax cut on food and beverages, which will be the focus of the extraordinary Diet session, the Diet explained that financial resources will be generated through a thorough review of special tax measures, subsidies, and funds. Regarding the recipients and amounts of the income-linked benefit system that will be introduced at the same time, the government only said, ``We will consider the appropriate amount towards the end of the year.''