[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] The Japanese government criticized the coup d'?tat led by the Myanmar military as "a violation of democracy."
On the same day, Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu stated in a press release, "We have serious concerns about the declaration of a state of emergency in Myanmar and the resulting disruption of the democratization process," and "We demand the release of detained officials, including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi."
He added, "The Japanese government has strongly supported Myanmar's democratization process so far and opposes any actions that go against it," emphasizing, "Japan strongly urges the military to restore Myanmar's democratic political system as soon as possible."
Foreign Minister Motegi also said, "We are providing information to our nationals through the local Japanese embassy," and "We are requesting Myanmar to cooperate in ensuring the safety of Japanese citizens."
Chief Cabinet Secretary Kato Katsunobu also expressed strong concern about the disruption of Myanmar's democratization process during a press conference held that afternoon and demanded the release of State Counsellor Suu Kyi and others.
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