We refrain from commenting on specific projects and companies.

Instead, we will provide the following information on our general approach to respecting human rights.

SMBC Group sets Human Rights as one of the priority issues (materiality) and publicly announces to put our effort into prevent, mitigate and remediate the negative impacts on human rights. In order to prevent its business activities, including investments and financing, from contributing to or being directly related to human rights violations, SMBC conducts due diligence when undertaking lending for the projects with certain level. While laws and regulations may differ between countries or regions, SMBC Group seeks to respect principles of internationally recognized human rights while complying with local laws and regulations where it does business. We also confirm appropriate risk mitigation measures, including human rights aspect, are taken by project operators based on dialogue with customers and external experts.

SMBC Group recognizes that its responsibility on human rights continues to evolve as society’s expectations on business respect for human rights also grows. SMBC Group is committed to an ongoing review and assessment of its business practices and approach on human rights in light of changing global circumstances.