TOKYO, Sept. 15 -- Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry issued text of the following statement:
Opening Remarks
none
Question-and-Answer Session
Situation in the Middle EastQ: Regarding the situation in the Middle East, there have been reports of an attack on a Saudi Arabian crude oil pipeline and of Shia Muslims gaining control over the Red Sea. I would like to ask you about your assessment of the impact this might have on Japan's alternative crude oil procurement routes and on oil exports to Japan. I would also like to know if the situation has reached a point where measures such as the additional release of national crude oil stockpiles are being considered. Thank you.
A: Regarding the situation in the Middle East, I am aware of ...