YouSaid · the spoken record

Konishi

lines on the record

95

first

1996-04-09

most recent

1998-12-16

sittings or episodes

21

sources

un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

1. “At the outset, my delegation wishes, on behalf of the Government of Japan, to express its appreciation to all the men and women working for the United Nations Mission of Observers in Tajikistan (UNMOT) for their efforts to promote the peace process in Tajikistan. It is, however, regrettable that, despite the efforts made by UNMOT, the progress of the peace process has been very slow during the last three months and that the security situation on the ground remains precarious. My delegation is particularly concerned that the recent violations of the ceasefire have deteriorated mutual confidence between the Government of Tajikistan and the United Tajik Opposition (UTO).”

   1998-05-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3879 (1998) · source

2. “Finally, my delegation wishes, on behalf of the Government of Japan, to pay high tribute to the significant and diligent work of the Tribunal so far, and to stress the importance of full cooperation by all States with the Tribunal in accordance with their obligations under the relevant resolution.”

   1998-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3878 (1998) · source

3. “At the same time, we are aware that the constantly increasing workload of the Tribunal, particularly in the last several months, has made it difficult for the Tribunal to conduct its important tasks effectively. This problem creates difficulties in bringing to justice without delay those responsible for the tragedy and the atrocities which took place in the former Yugoslavia, and also in ensuring that the accused will have fair and expeditious trials. My delegation is convinced that the trial chamber and judges to be added by the terms of the draft resolution, together with additional efforts by the Tribunal to improve the effectiveness of its functioning, will contribute to resolving these difficulties.”

   1998-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3878 (1998) · source

4. “I should like at the outset to express the sincere appreciation of my delegation to you, Sir, for the kind words you conveyed to Ambassador Owada in his capacity as the previous President of the Security Council. My delegation will vote in favour of the draft resolution before us, which would decide to establish a third trial chamber of the International Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia and would decide also that three additional judges should be elected. My delegation believes that the prosecution of persons responsible for serious violations of international humanitarian law committed in the territory of the former Yugoslavia is a prerequisite for true reconciliation among the ethnic groups and for the restoration and maintenance of peace in the former Yugoslavia.”

   1998-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3878 (1998) · source

5. “In this regard, I would like to stress that it is incumbent upon President Patasse, as the head of the Administration, to fulfil the commitments he has made to the people of the Central African Republic. Finally, I would like to restate that Japan, for its part, will continue to assist the Central African Republic in its efforts to maintain stability and to enhance the well- being of its people.”

   1998-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3867 (1998) · source

6. “Among the main elements of this strategy are an enhanced early-warning capability for the United Nations, and greater coordination and cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations such as the Organization of African Unity. In effect, Japan is exploring how the role played by the Security Council and the United Nations in conflict prevention can be strengthened and rendered more effective. I feel obliged to reiterate that MINURCA must by no means be viewed as a panacea for the problems confronting the Central African Republic. Its mission is simply to support the efforts of the Government to overcome those problems. It is the responsibility of the Central African Republic itself to rebuild the country and to strive to achieve prosperity.”

   1998-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3867 (1998) · source

7. “The establishment of MINURCA will demonstrate to the world the ongoing commitment and unique capabilities of the United Nations, and particularly of the Security Council, with regard to the maintenance of world peace and security. In this context, Japan has been and will continue to be engaged in the effort to devise a comprehensive and effective strategy for the prevention and early resolution of conflicts, with a particular focus on Africa at this stage. In January this year, for example, Japan hosted the Tokyo International Conference on Preventive Strategy, where representatives from more than 20 countries and organizations met and discussed the subject in depth.”

   1998-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3867 (1998) · source

8. “Although significant progress has been achieved thus far, including the adoption yesterday of the electoral code, national reconciliation in the Central African Republic remains a difficult and complex process. Among the tasks awaiting the people of that country are the holding of legislative elections, the restructuring and capacity-building of the security forces, and the introduction of financial and economic reforms. These tasks are indeed challenging, and will require concrete assistance from the international community to ensure that the necessary conditions of peace and stability prevail throughout the country. My delegation therefore supports the establishment of the United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic (MINURCA), and will vote in favour of the draft resolution before us.”

   1998-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3867 (1998) · source

9. “At the outset, let me express on behalf of the delegation of Japan my sincere appreciation to all those involved in efforts to maintain stability in the Central African Republic. I would like to pay particular tribute to those who took part in the activities of the Inter- African Mission to Monitor the Implementation of the Bangui Agreements (MISAB), the International Monitoring Committee, and the International Mediation Committee, as well as France, which provided much-needed support for those activities. My delegation believes that these efforts have been key in maintaining order in the country, and thereby in preventing the destabilization of the subregion.”

   1998-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3867 (1998) · source

10. “In the meantime, Japan, for its part, will continue to assist the Central African Republic in its effort to restore stability and achieve greater prosperity.”

    1998-02-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3853 (1998) · source

11. “I would like to reiterate that it is extremely important that President Patasse, as the Head of the Administration, fulfil his commitment and responsibility to the people of the Central African Republic, in particular the soldiers and officials of the Government. This is indeed the prerequisite for true and lasting peace and stability in the country. There are many difficulties to be overcome, including the restructuring of security forces and the adoption of the new electoral code. My delegation looks forward to the Secretary-General's report, to be submitted later this month, describing the progress made in these areas, as well as the details regarding the peacekeeping operation to be established.”

    1998-02-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3853 (1998) · source

12. “It recognizes that while there is relative stability on the ground, thanks to the excellent work of MISAB, a continued international presence will be essential once MISAB's mandate expires. For these reasons, my delegation will vote in favour of the draft resolution before us, including its intention that the Council take a decision by 16 March on the establishment of a peacekeeping operation in the Central African Republic. I also consider that extending the authorization of MISAB until 16 March will give President Patasse the time to make good his promise to implement the Bangui Agreements.”

    1998-02-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3853 (1998) · source

13. “I would also like to pay special tribute to President Bongo of Gabon in his capacity as Chairman of the International Mediation Committee, who has played an indispensable role. Japan has been engaged in the effort to devise an effective strategy for the prevention and early resolution of conflicts in Africa and to explore just what role the Security Council can play in such a strategy. As a member of the Council since last year, Japan has taken a keen and active interest in the Council's deliberations on this issue. In the light of these efforts, my delegation is of the view that the deployment of a United Nations peacekeeping operation in the Central African Republic should be considered a part of this strategy.”

    1998-02-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3853 (1998) · source

14. “At the outset, Mr. President, let me also welcome your presence on this important occasion. Last August, in order to prevent a resurgence of the conflict in the Central African Republic, the Security Council made the political decision to authorize the Member States participating in the Inter-African Mission to Monitor the Implementation of the Bangui Agreements (MISAB), and those States providing logistical support, to ensure the security and freedom of movement of their personnel. My delegation would like to express its sincere appreciation to all involved, including those who took part in the activities of MISAB, the International Monitoring Committee and France, which provided much needed support for those activities.”

    1998-02-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3853 (1998) · source

15. “We have noted with particular interest the Secretary- General's suggestion that the Council may wish to re- examine the adequacy of the revenues as envisaged by resolutions 986 (1995) and 1111 (1997) and to consider the possibility of increasing those revenues to meet Iraq's priority humanitarian requirements. Japan is ready to consider this matter favourably, based on the supplementary report to be submitted by the Secretary- General, taking into account the relevant aspects, such as the specific humanitarian needs of the Iraqi people. In paragraph 6 of the draft resolution, the Council would express its willingness to consider these issues in the light of the recommendations of the Secretary-General to be included in the supplementary report. For these reasons, my delegation will support the draft resolution.”

    1997-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3840 (1997) · source

16. “The Secretary- General's report indicates that the slow and erratic pace at which humanitarian inputs arrive in Iraq has been very unsatisfactory, and it expresses his intention to submit to the Council a supplementary report with recommendations addressing concerns over processing and supply issues. The report of the Committee established by resolution 661 (1990) also states that it will continue to work for the smooth and effective implementation of the relevant arrangements under resolutions 986 (1995) and 1111 (1997). We support these efforts of the Secretary- General and the Committee established by resolution 661 (1990), and my delegation will continue to contribute actively to this process.”

    1997-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3840 (1997) · source

17. “Throughout the process of the adoption and implementation of resolution 986 (1995), Japan consistently supported its objective: to provide for the humanitarian needs of the Iraqi people, who are suffering from the impact of sanctions. My delegation is concerned about the Secretary-General's observation in his report that, despite the ongoing implementation of resolution 986 (1995), the population of Iraq continues to face serious nutritional and health situations and there is an urgent need to contain the risk of a further deterioration. In renewing the provisions of Security Council resolution 986 (1995), my delegation is guided by the practical consideration of ensuring the smooth and efficient implementation of the resolution.”

    1997-12-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3840 (1997) · source

18. “It will continue such efforts, including the possible dispatch of civilian personnel to the strengthened UNMOT, thereby joining the international endeavour to facilitate the peace process in Tajikistan.”

    1997-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3833 (1997) · source

19. “Improving the security situation is a prerequisite for further efficient activities not only by UNMOT but also by the peacekeeping forces of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and other international organizations. My delegation thus welcomes the recent agreement on the formation by the Government of Tajikistan and the UTO of a joint security unit to enhance the safety of UNMOT personnel, and hopes that this unit will be established without delay. Finally, I am pleased to confirm that the Government of Japan has already made substantial contributions to the welfare of the people of Tajikistan in the form of humanitarian, refugee and technical assistance.”

    1997-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3833 (1997) · source

20. “Given this positive development of the situation, I strongly believe that the international community should strengthen its assistance to the parties in their efforts to establish lasting peace. In this context, the Government of Japan fully supports the Security Council draft resolution (S/1997/887), which extends the mandate of UNMOT with increased strength, as recommended by the Secretary-General. At the same time, we cannot but be concerned about the security situation on the ground, especially in the central part of the country, due to various violent actions of armed groups.”

    1997-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3833 (1997) · source

21. “At the outset, my delegation wishes to pay tribute to Mr. Merrem, Special Representative of the Secretary-General; Brigadier- General Izydorczyk, Chief Military Observer; and all the men and women serving with the United Nations Mission of Observers in Tajikistan (UNMOT). It is thanks to their dedicated efforts on the ground that the concrete process of implementing the General Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and National Accord in Tajikistan has recently begun. Japan finds it encouraging that both the Government of Tajikistan and the United Tajik Opposition (UTO) are maintaining the ceasefire and making serious efforts to carry out their commitments under the General Agreement, including actions with regard to the Commission on National Reconciliation (CNR).”

    1997-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3833 (1997) · source

22. “The international community hopes for and expects further progress in the Angolan peace process and will monitor the future actions of the Angolan Government and UNITA as before. It will continue to assist the peace process provided the parties make serious efforts to fulfil their commitments. Japan, too, will search for ways to offer all possible support to Angola, carefully considering the situation in the country. In closing, I should like to reiterate my Government's respect and gratitude to the Secretary- General, to his Special Representative, Maitre Alioune Blondin Beye, to the personnel of MONUA and to the three observer States for their untiring efforts to promote peace and stability in Angola.”

    1997-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3814 (1997) · source

23. “While it is mainly UNITA which has reneged on its commitments concerning the peace process, the Government of Angola must also meet all its obligations and cooperate fully with United Nations Observer Mission in Angola (MONUA). Both parties must ensure the freedom of movement and safety of MONUA personnel, stop obstructing MONUA's verification activities and refrain from any use of force which could obstruct full implementation of the peace process. The long-awaited meeting between President Dos Santos and Mr. Savimbi on Angolan territory could also help greatly in removing major obstacles in the search for lasting stability. We therefore urge both parties to engage in serious talks, with a view to finding a mutually acceptable way of holding such a meeting.”

    1997-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3814 (1997) · source

24. “Therefore, the Council must now go beyond merely applying verbal pressure on UNITA and take decisions on the concrete measures to be taken against it, as provided for in the draft resolution. UNITA can still avoid the imposition of these measures if it immediately takes real steps to meet its obligations at this eleventh hour. Indeed, this is what all of us in the international community wish to see, and we demand of UNITA, in the strongest terms, that it do so. Japan attaches great importance to the effectiveness of these measures, for which cooperation from the neighbouring States is essential. UNITA should bear in mind the Security Council's readiness to consider still further measures in the event that UNITA persists in its refusal to meet its obligations.”

    1997-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3814 (1997) · source

25. “The Angolan peace process reached an important milestone last April with such important progress as the establishment of the Government of Unity and National Reconciliation. It was then hoped that peace and stability would truly come to Angola. However, the situation has since deteriorated to the point that the Secretary-General was forced to declare in his report of 13 August that the peace process was facing some of the most serious difficulties since the signing of the Lusaka Protocol. This is an extremely regrettable and grave state of affairs. As the draft resolution on which we are about to vote makes clear, the main responsibility for the current impasse must be borne by UNITA. Despite repeated urging by the Security Council, it has consistently failed to fulfil its obligations under the Lusaka Protocol.”

    1997-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3814 (1997) · source

26. “In closing, I would like to state that my Government believes that the initiative being taken by the countries of the region sets a good precedent for the prevention of conflicts in Africa. It is therefore pleased that this draft resolution has been made ready for the consideration of the Council in a timely manner. We hope that peace will take root in the Central African Republic in the very near future, so that it will lead to its long-term stability and development.”

    1997-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3808 (1997) · source

27. “It has now produced a draft resolution which my delegation believes is clear and to the point, approving the continued conduct of the operation in a neutral and impartial way by the Member States participating in MISAB, so that the objective of the mission can be attained. Acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations, the Council, through this resolution, also authorizes the Member States participating in MISAB and those States providing logistical support to ensure the security and freedom of movement of their personnel. With the adoption of this draft resolution my delegation believes that an effective action can be taken to restore peace to the Central African Republic, thereby contributing to the stability of the entire region. My delegation accordingly will vote in favour of this draft resolution.”

    1997-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3808 (1997) · source

28. “Japan has always worked for peace and stability in Africa, as peace and stability are the prerequisites for promoting development and prosperity. Japan therefore welcomes the regional initiative that is being taken on the situation in the Central African Republic. The Government of Japan wishes to express its full support for the efforts being made by the members of the International Monitoring Committee, namely, Gabon, Burkina Faso, Mali and Chad, and to express its appreciation to these countries, as well as to Senegal and Togo, for contributing troops to the Inter-African Mission to Monitor the Implementation of the Bangui Agreements (MISAB). The Council has been working with great care on the draft resolution before us, with a view to responding as best it can to the request made by the countries of the region.”

    1997-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3808 (1997) · source

29. “Henryk Sokalski, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General; to Brigadier-General Bo Wranker, the Force Commander of UNPREDEP; and to all the military and civilian personnel under their command for the dedication and skill with which they are carrying out their important tasks.”

    1997-05-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3783 (1997) · source

30. “I also welcome his endeavour to ensure the cost- effectiveness of the Force, coherence in the implementation of its mandate, greater efficiency in its operations and increased flexibility in its response to changing circumstances on the ground. The importance that the Government of Japan attaches to the stability of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is demonstrated in the bilateral efforts it has been making to complement those of the international community. For example, in March of this year my Government extended to the Government of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia non-project grant aid in the amount of 500 million yen, and is ready to consider the possibility of further aid in this direction. In conclusion, allow me to pay tribute, on behalf of the Government of Japan, to Mr.”

    1997-05-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3783 (1997) · source

31. “The unrest and tension stemming from ethnic rivalries in Kosovo in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and the difficulties in the implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement in Bosnia and Herzegovina are, likewise, sources of concern for the maintenance of regional peace and security, as is the situation surrounding inter-ethnic relations in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia itself. In View of these considerations, my delegation shares the views of the Secretary-General which are contained in his report in document S/ 1997/365, and fully supports his rationale for the renewal of the mandate of UNPREDEP for an additional six months, until 30 November 1997.”

    1997-05-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3783 (1997) · source

32. “While the situation within that country has stabilized to some degree, owing to the deployment of the multinational protection force and to the efforts of various humanitarian agencies, it is anticipated that the restoration of political, economic and social order will take some time, even after the election that is planned for late June. At the same time, there has been an increase in the number of incidents taking place along its border with the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, demonstrating how fragile the stability in the Balkan region IS.”

    1997-05-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3783 (1997) · source

33. “I should like to preface my remarks today by stressing the importance that the Government of Japan attaches to the maintenance of the stability of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia for the peace and security of the entire Balkan region. It greatly appreciates the role that the United Nations Preventive Deployment Force (UNPREDEP) has been playing in this regard by preventing conflict from spilling into the Republic across its borders. As we take up the question of extending the mandate of UNPREDEP, it is necessary to consider the situation in neighbouring areas and countries. Albania is of particular concern in this respect.”

    1997-05-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3783 (1997) · source

34. “Indeed, the friendly and cooperative relations which our two countries enjoy today are in no small measure the legacy of this great man. On behalf of the Government and people of Japan, I should like on this occasion to convey to His Excellency Mr. Qin Huasun and the members of his Mission - and through him to the Government and people of the People's Republic of China - my sincere condolences at this time of bereavement.”

    1997-02-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3742 (1997) · source

35. “It was with profound sadness that we learned of the passing away of His Excellency Mr. Deng Xiaoping. With his passing, the People's Republic of China has lost a wise and visionary leader. It was His Excellency Mr. Deng Xiaoping who, with great courage and foresight, crafted and vigorously implemented China's modernization policies of reform and openness. His Excellency Mr. Deng Xiaoping attached great importance to developing ties and promoting mutual understanding between our two countries, beginning with the conclusion of the Treaty of Peace and Friendship between Japan and the People's Republic of China. He honoured Japan with visits in 1978 and again in 1979, and in turn welcomed to China many Japanese people from diverse sectors for close and wide-ranging discussions.”

    1997-02-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3742 (1997) · source

36. “While Japan is not in a position to provide personnel or logistical support for a multinational force, it will consider the possibility and modalities of a financial contribution, based on the plan's details as they become more clear. I wish to conclude my statement by appealing to all the Burundi parties to commit themselves to dialogue in order to achieve a comprehensive political settlement and create the necessary conditions for national reconciliation.”

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

37. “In this connection, I might mention that the Japanese Government will host a symposium next month in Tokyo on a related set of issues: the problems which African countries have faced in the wake of political settlements of perennial conflicts, how a truly durable peace can be achieved, and how to promote reconstruction and development despite the difficulties they face. Participants will include senior United Nations staff members, Permanent Representatives of various African countries and other authorities on these questions. We have also noted with alarm the Secretary- General's warning that if the worst-case scenario becomes a reality there could be a genocide in Burundi, and his appeal for concerned countries to undertake contingency planning.”

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

38. “We urge the parties concerned to resume negotiations through the Mwanza peace process as soon as possible. While urging the Burundi parties to negotiate, we must also give them an incentive to do so. The international community should thus make it clear to them that a comprehensive political settlement will open the way for cooperation on the reconstruction and development of their country. Japan accordingly supports the idea of holding an international conference at an appropriate time and in a suitable format, following such a settlement.”

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

39. “We contributed a further $10 million this year to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to protect and assist these refugees. As the recent report of the Secretary-General indicates, the conflict in Burundi is not susceptible to a military solution. It is imperative that all the parties refrain from the use of force and resume dialogue and negotiations in order to seek an early political settlement. Only such efforts can put an end to the turmoil in Burundi and bring stability and development to the country. We commend the efforts of former President Julius K. Nyerere of Tanzania to facilitate negotiations between the Burundi political parties, as well as the initiatives of the Organization of African Unity, as an important African effort to resolve an African conflict.”

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

40. “Like previous speakers, we have followed the situation in Burundi with apprehension, and we welcome this opportunity to discuss this matter in the Council. We have particularly been appalled by the vicious cycle of attacks and reprisals, which have often resulted in the deaths of numerous innocent civilians. We are gravely concerned by the recent, unlawful seizure of power. The use of force and violence by any party in order to advance political objectives cannot be allowed to continue. In order to mitigate the plight of refugees from Burundi and Rwanda seeking refuge in such countries as Zaire, Japan extended humanitarian assistance totalling some $54 million in the course of its previous fiscal year. This was implemented mainly through United Nations agencies and non-governmental organizations.”

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

41. “Japan wishes to contribute as much as possible to efforts within the framework of the United Nations in such a direction, keeping in mind that before any decisions on concrete measures are taken, the efficacy of such measures would require careful study.”

    1996-04-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3650 (1996) · source

42. “Japan also hopes to send a political officer to work for the United Nations Special Mission when an understanding is fully reached with the Secretariat on the modus operandi for that officer. Japan would like to call attention to the View expressed in the Secretary-General's report that arms exports and other forms of foreign interference are prolonging the civil war. It is essential that the countries concerned halt such assistance immediately and rally behind the United Nations peace efforts. The Secretary- General's proposal that an international conference be convened to address this problem as an integral part of the overall Afghanistan problem is worthy of consideration. In this context, my Government has followed with interest the question of an arms embargo against Afghanistan.”

    1996-04-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3650 (1996) · source

43. “As a country that maintains good yet neutral relations with those parties, Japan believes it can play a useful role in helping to build the necessary confidence among them to create an environment conducive to the achievement of peace. Specifically, Japan is in a position to facilitate talks between the United Nations and the various Afghan parties as well as between the United Nations and the neighbouring countries. On various occasions, the parties have expressed to Japan their strong hope that the United Nations will play a more active role to achieve peace in Afghanistan, and that Japan will further contribute to efforts for a political settlement. The Government of Japan thus intends to develop its contacts with the parties concerned. In addition, a Government mission is now holding talks with a number of concerned countries.”

    1996-04-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3650 (1996) · source

44. “My Government shares the views contained in the Secretary-General' s recent report to the General Assembly (A/50/908). Japan believes that the conflict should be resolved through the framework of the United Nations, and it continues to support the Organization's mediation efforts to help bring lasting stability to Afghanistan and to the region. It should be stressed, however, that the destiny of Afghanistan can only be determined by the Afghan people themselves. It is they who must decide on the elements to be included in a peace settlement, such as the form which their future government is to take and the means for ensuring domestic security. The parties in conflict must lay down their arms and go to the negotiating table as early as possible.”

    1996-04-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3650 (1996) · source

45. “Permit me at the outset to offer my congratulations to you, Sir, on your assumption of the presidency for the month of April. Please be assured that Japan stands ready to extend its full support as you continue to lead the work of the Council. I also wish to take this opportunity to pay tribute to your predecessor, the representative of the Republic of Botswana, for the excellent manner in which he guided the Council's business during the month of March. Japan has been closely following recent developments in Afghanistan. In the light of information it has received from the survey teams it dispatched to the country and from other sources, it is particularly concerned by the human suffering resulting from the ongoing fighting, and by the danger that the civil war could spill over and threaten the stability of the entire region.”

    1996-04-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3650 (1996) · source