YouSaid · the spoken record

Yamanaka

lines on the record

45

first

2023-02-21

most recent

2023-12-18

sittings or episodes

9

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. “Restrictions on freedom of movement, especially those imposed on women, are worrisome. The inhumane conditions faced by migrants and refugees remain a serious concern. Cross-border human trafficking networks must be dismantled. It is reported that those activities are conducted by both the security apparatus and armed groups. Thus, it is even more critical to establish a unified and legitimate Government through elections, with good governance based on the rule of law, and to unify military and security institutions. To conclude, I would like to express our strong support for the Libyan people as they seek to establish a government that will protect their lives and dignity.”

   2023-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9510 (2023) · source

2. “Progress in the unification of divided State institutions and the establishment of a national financial oversight mechanism are also positive developments. Moreover, the Libyan people clearly showed their solidarity and unity after the devastating flood in the east of the country in September. Yet Libya needs further steps forward to complete its democratic transition, and we call on those currently in power to take that courageous step. In that regard, Japan welcomes the Special Representative’s initiative to bring the five key Libyan actors together, and we encourage them to fully engage with the Special Representative to complete the necessary preparations for the holding of the elections. I would like to touch upon Libya’s humanitarian and human rights situation. We are concerned about the reports of unlawful arrests and detentions.”

   2023-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9510 (2023) · source

3. “Although the long-awaited national elections, which would pave the way to a democratic transition in Libya, have not yet taken place, this year saw some steps forward in the Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process facilitated by the United Nations. As an elected Council member, Japan has been consistently supporting Special Representative Bathily’s efforts throughout the past year, while respecting Libya’s ownership. With the help of the Special Representative’s initiatives, Libyan actors were able to agree on electoral laws, identify politically and technically contentious issues and resolve some of those issues. The Special Representative’s facilitation of the 5+5 Joint Military Commission and the Commission’s steady efforts have enabled an environment that is safe and conducive to running elections.”

   2023-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9510 (2023) · source

4. “I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Bathily for his update, and I welcome Ambassador El-Sonni, Permanent Representative of Libya, who joins us today. To begin my statement, I would like to welcome the Security Council’s unanimous adoption in October of two resolutions regarding Libya, renewing the sanctions regime (resolution 2701 (2023)) and the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (resolution 2702 (2023)). That shows the Council’s strong commitment to maintaining Libya’s peace and security and supporting its political process towards a democratic transition.”

   2023-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9510 (2023) · source

5. “On 29 November, the Committee amended five entries on its sanctions list, pursuant to the recommendations contained in the final report of the Panel of Experts. The Committee received a second communication from the focal point for delisting in connection with a delisting request that remains under consideration. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate the Committee’s commitment to contributing to the promotion of peace and stability in Libya.”

   2023-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9510 (2023) · source

6. “With regard to the travel ban, the Committee extended, for a sixth time, the six-month exemption to the travel ban, granted for humanitarian purposes to individuals on the Committee’s list — Ms. Safia Farkash Al-Barassi and Mr. Mohammed Al-Qadhafi. On 16 October 2023, the Committee granted the request of a listed individual, Ms. Aisha Al-Qadhafi, received through the focal point for delisting established pursuant to resolution 1730 (2006), and decided that Ms. Al-Qadhafi was no longer subject to the travel ban measures imposed pursuant to paragraph 15 of resolution 1970 (2011). Ms. Al-Qadhafi remains subject to the assets freeze measure, and the list of sanctions imposed on individuals was amended accordingly.”

   2023-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9510 (2023) · source

7. “On 4 December 2023, the Committee issued its implementation assistance notice 7, “Guidance to Member States on the application of the humanitarian exemption established by resolution 2664 (2022) to the asset freeze established under resolution 1970 (2011)”. The Committee responded to two letters from Libya, concerning certain aspects of the asset freeze. In the follow-up to one of those letters, a note verbale was also sent to all Member States on asset freeze exemptions and exceptions, including in relation to the Libyan Investment Authority. The Committee also received a letter from Libya in relation to the final report of the Panel of Experts (see S/2023/673).”

   2023-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9510 (2023) · source

8. “One Committee member expressed a different view with regard to a possible follow-up on the matter, referring to the implementation of resolution 2292 (2016). There is a lack of consensus among Committee members in that regard. In relation to a separate vessel inspection conducted on 15 September 2023 by Operation IRINI, the Committee notified the flag State of the inspected vessel. In relation to the asset freeze, no negative decisions was taken by the Committee with regard to four notifications invoking paragraph 19 (a) of resolution 1970 (2011) — two of which were submitted by the Kingdom of Bahrain and the other two by Luxembourg and the United Kingdom. The Committee is currently concerned about the two notifications submitted by Bahrain, invoking paragraph 21 of resolution 1970 (2011).”

   2023-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9510 (2023) · source

9. “The arms embargo, the travel and the asset freeze were not time bound and continue to apply. The Council also extended the mandate of the Panel of Experts on Libya until 15 February 2025. The Panel is requested, inter alia, to provide recommendations in its final report on possible actions that could enable the re-investment of the Libyan Investment Authority’s frozen assets for the purpose of preserving their value and benefiting the Libyan people at a later stage. On 20 November, the Secretary-General appointed six individuals to serve on the Panel. Concerning the arms embargo, the Committee received a final written report from the European Union Naval Force Mediterranean Operation IRINI concerning a vessel inspection conducted on 18 July 2022 and the disposal of the corresponding seized cargo.”

   2023-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9510 (2023) · source

10. “Mr. Yamanaka: I deliver this statement on behalf of the Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011), concerning Libya, Ambassador Shino. In accordance with paragraph 24 (e) of resolution 1970 (2011), of 26 February 2011, I have the honour to report to the Security Council on the work of the 1970 Committee. The report covers the period from 16 October to 18 December 2023, during which time the Committee conducted its work using the silence procedure, with the aim of facilitating the implementation of the sanctions measures. On 19 October, the Security Council adopted resolution 2701 (2023), through which it extended the time-bound measures aimed at preventing the illicit exports of petroleum from Libya, including crude oil and refined petroleum products, until 1 February 2025.”

    2023-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9510 (2023) · source

11. “The people of Ukraine are enduring another deadly winter of war. Japan will continue to stand in solidarity with them until they can finally enjoy the warm spring of peace that they deserve.”

    2023-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9494 (2023) · source

12. “Japan will not tolerate the possibility of impunity for those responsible, and the perpetrators of violations of international humanitarian law must be identified and held accountable. The death toll of civilians in Ukraine verified by the United Nations has exceeded 10,000, including more than 560 children. The actual figures may be significantly higher. Why are we having to observe such a grim milestone? Why did those innocent people have to die? Why do those who survive have to endure more destruction? The answer to these questions is obvious. Without Russia’s unlawful war of aggression, we would not be facing such distressing questions. We once again strongly urge Russia to withdraw immediately and unconditionally from the internationally recognized borders of Ukraine and to refrain from causing further atrocities.”

    2023-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9494 (2023) · source

13. “In September, ahead of a full-fledged cold winter, Japan has provided 2 autotransformers to Ukraine and plans to provide 10 more, to contribute to the recovery and reinforcement of the power supply in the country. Japan is also aiming to provide three gas turbines by the end of this year, with two more currently in the procurement process. Once delivered, these autotransformers and gas turbines are expected to benefit more than 5.5 million people in Ukraine. Japan is also deeply distressed by Russia’s blatant disregard for international humanitarian law. The law’s provisions are not options but obligations that parties to conflicts have to observe and rules by which they are held accountable.”

    2023-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9494 (2023) · source

14. “I would like to start by thanking France for requesting this meeting, which gives us an opportunity to reaffirm our solidarity with the people of Ukraine. I would also like to thank Mr. Jenča and Mr. Rajasingham for their alarming briefings. The second winter since Russia launched its unprovoked war of aggression is setting in. In Ukraine, it has started to snow heavily, and the temperature is plummeting. Recently, people reportedly died owing to a snowstorm. Russia’s continued attacks against energy facilities could force civilians to make difficult choices, such as between warmth and other essential services, in the coming months. Japan is deeply concerned that the already dire humanitarian situation in Ukraine may go from bad to worse this winter. We cannot tolerate the weaponizing of winter yet again.”

    2023-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9494 (2023) · source

15. “In that vein, Japan urges Syria to follow the recent order of the International Court of Justice and take all measures to prevent acts of torture and other inhumane abuses. Finally, as OCHA has pointed out, the cost of inaction on the Syrian crisis is extremely high. Without the prospect of a political solution, the country will remain unstable, and humanitarian needs will not diminish. We would like to emphasize again that sincere and positive action by the Syrian Government on the political track is the only way to build confidence in the international community.”

    2023-11-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9487 (2023) · source

16. “To address the Syrian refugee crisis, much more effort is needed from the Syrian Government to create an enabling environment for their safe, voluntary and dignified return. It is also essential that the Government address in good faith the issue of disappeared persons, of whom there are estimated to be more than 138,000. The General Assembly’s decision in June to establish the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (see General Assembly resolution 77/301) was an important move, and Japan will support the Institution so that it can begin substantive work in the near future. Also, it is urgently necessary to advance the reconciliation process.”

    2023-11-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9487 (2023) · source

17. “Support for early recovery and resilience-building is critical. Japan, as a major donor, continues to address that crisis in collaboration with the United Nations and non-governmental organizations on the basis of a people-centred and whole-of-Syria approach. We encourage donors to make collective and further efforts for the humanitarian response plan, which is currently severely underfunded. With winter approaching, the Syrian Government’s decision to extend the use of the Bab Al-Salam and Bab Al-Rai border crossings for an additional three months is a welcome step that will contribute to facilitating needed aid to the 2.9 million displaced persons, most of whom are women and children, in north-west Syria.”

    2023-11-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9487 (2023) · source

18. “It is unlikely that the Constitutional Committee will be able to convene before the end of the year. The formation of the Arab contact group following Syria’s return to the League of Arab States in May offered much promise for a regional role in resolving the Syrian crisis, but progress has been slow. The Council continues to support the step-by- step approach of Special Envoy Pedersen, although his efforts have been complicated by the intertwined interests and involvement of many actors, both internal and external. Yet we do not have the luxury of losing hope. The Council must remain engaged and reaffirm the importance of a political solution in accordance with resolution 2254 (2015). Humanitarian needs across the country are at their worst-ever levels, with no sign of improvement.”

    2023-11-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9487 (2023) · source

19. “I would like to thank Deputy Special Envoy Rochdi and Director of Operations and Advocacy of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Ms. Wosornu, for their valuable updates. The world’s attention is now focused on the deepening crisis in Gaza. Not only do we need to prevent the spillover effects of the Gaza crisis on the Syrian security situation, but also we must not forget the plight of the Syrian people. After more than a decade of war, millions remain refugees or internally displaced. Tens of thousands were killed by the devastating earthquakes in February, and 9 out of 10 are living in poverty. Those who knew Syria before the Arab Spring could never have imagined such a catastrophe. Syria is in desperate need of a political solution, yet none appears imminent.”

    2023-11-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9487 (2023) · source

20. “In addition, the concept of women and peace and security has shown that we can move closer to sustaining peace by having women actively participate as leaders in conflict resolution, reconstruction and peacebuilding, while also protecting and helping women and girls. A women and peace and security perspective must be ensured when working to improve the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and to de-escalate the situation as soon as possible, as well as in the subsequent recovery and reconstruction. Japan will work tirelessly to that end.”

    2023-11-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9484 (2023) · source

21. “In that regard, Japan welcomes the recently announced deal for the release of hostages and a pause in fighting for four days as an important move towards the release of further hostages and the improvement of the humanitarian situation and commends the efforts undertaken by the countries concerned. We expect the deal to be implemented in a steady and timely manner. Lastly, I would like to emphasize that no military action can resolve this conflict. Diplomatic negotiations must be relaunched, leading to a two-State solution, with Israel and a future independent State of Palestine living side by side in peace and security.”

    2023-11-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9484 (2023) · source

22. “In that regard, full, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access must be ensured, in line with international humanitarian law and the newly adopted resolution 2712 (2023). Japan welcomes that resolution and calls for all parties to act faithfully based on it. Many women and children are among the victims and the hostages subject to the acts of terror committed by Hamas in Israel. Japan demands the immediate and unconditional release of all the remaining hostages. We once again express our unequivocal condemnation of the horrifying terror attacks committed by Hamas and other Palestinian militants. At the same time, we call for all parties to act in accordance with international law, including international humanitarian law.”

    2023-11-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9484 (2023) · source

23. “Reportedly, more than 4,500 children have been killed and at least 6,800 have been injured to date, with more than 400 being killed or injured every single day. Many children are believed to be trapped beneath the rubble of collapsed buildings. It is profoundly distressing to learn that women and children account for nearly 70 per cent of the death toll in Gaza. No other place on Earth is as horrifying as Gaza right now. All parties to the conflict must remember the grave impacts of armed conflict that those women, children and their families will have to endure for many years to come. The protection of women and children must be prioritized, and they must be provided with essential humanitarian assistance such as food, water and medicine continuously.”

    2023-11-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9484 (2023) · source

24. “More than 3,000 women reportedly have been killed in Gaza. An estimated 575,000 women and adolescent girls of reproductive age are also facing critical gaps in their access to health services, including sexual and reproductive health services. That has resulted in births without adequate care and the deaths of premature infants. In that context, Japan would also like to reaffirm the importance of ensuring the protection of medical and humanitarian personnel exclusively engaged in medical duties in accordance with the relevant Security Council resolutions, including resolution 2286 (2016). The children in Gaza are also facing extremely challenging conditions. As the Secretary-General said recently, Gaza is becoming a graveyard for children.”

    2023-11-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9484 (2023) · source

25. “I thank the Executive Directors of UN-Women, the United Nations Children’s Fund and the United Nations Population Fund for their briefings. Japan is deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, which is worsening to an unprecedented level. There are no words to explain this horror. Most of the people in Gaza have now been displaced and are desperately searching for food, water, medicine and shelter. Today we just heard about the dire and inhumane conditions confronting women and children in Gaza, who are forced to live in such vulnerable situations. Premature babies are dying, as critical systems shut down, and women are giving birth in unimaginable conditions. As the Executive Director of UN-Women just described, women and children are facing disproportionate impacts of the war.”

    2023-11-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9484 (2023) · source

26. “According to UNESCO, 327 cultural sites, including 124 religious sites, have been damaged since February 2022, when Russia began its aggression against Ukraine. This tragic list will become longer and longer until Russia stops its invasion of Ukraine. Without peace and stability, freedom of religion will be undermined. Let me repeat in the strongest possible terms — Russia must withdraw all its troops and military equipment from Ukraine and respect Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, within its internationally recognized borders.”

    2023-11-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9481 (2023) · source

27. “I thank Assistant Secretary-General Brands Kehris and other briefer for their briefings. Freedom of religion or belief is an indispensable and universal principle shared by the global community. In recent years, we have been witnessing countless serious human rights situations that undermine the foundation of people’s lives and societies as a whole. We always stand ready to address the human rights issues affecting international peace and security. Russia is attempting to employ narratives to paint itself as a guardian of religious freedom. However, when it comes to religious freedom, we must never forget that Russia has inflicted tremendous damage on religious facilities in Ukraine. We strongly condemn Russia’s attacks on religious sites in Ukraine, which are supposed to be protected.”

    2023-11-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9481 (2023) · source

28. “We are concerned about the growing influence in recent years of mis- and disinformation in peacekeeping settings, as it poses a threat to the safety and security of peacekeepers and hampers the effective implementation of all peacekeeping components’ mandates, including the United Nations police. We continue to encourage missions to develop integrated strategic communications to disseminate accurate information regarding mission activities, with a focus on progress achieved through the United Nations police’s capacity-building efforts. We believe that can also help national law-enforcement agencies win the trust of the public in the host State, as well. In conclusion, we welcome the continuing efforts of the United Nations police, which we hope will be further improved and strengthened.”

    2023-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9475 (2023) · source

29. “In that regard, we welcome United Nations initiatives such as the development of the Strategic Guidance Framework for International Policing and the United Nations Police Training Architecture Programme and their related materials. In particular, the roll-out of three job-specific courses, including police capacity-building and development for end- users, holds great promise. Additionally, leveraging the right coordination mechanism can enhance the training of every police-contributing country and lead to the deployment of more capable personnel. The third is the proactive use of strategic communications.”

    2023-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9475 (2023) · source

30. “Conversely, when host States receive capacity-building assistance from the United Nations police or other organizations, there is a risk that they will become excessively reliant on it, which can lead to a weakened sense of national ownership. That is a risk that peacekeepers have to be aware of. In that regard, we encourage the United Nations police to continue to respect and promote host countries’ ownership when providing capacity-building. The second essential aspect is deploying capable personnel. Capacity-building is best accomplished by those who possess the necessary qualifications and competence. Only when highly qualified and competent personnel provide capacity-building support can law- enforcement agencies be developed to be more effective. For that reason, personnel selection and predeployment training are fundamental.”

    2023-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9475 (2023) · source

31. “In that context, I would like to highlight three essential aspects vital to the effective functioning of the United Nations police. The first is respecting and promoting national ownership. Law-enforcement agencies in conflict- affected or post-conflict States frequently face the challenges that result from operating in conditions marked by prolonged turmoil and limited capacity and resources. Such circumstances can make it difficult for agencies to maintain the public’s trust and confidence. It is vital to ensure that host Governments can take proactive ownership and demonstrate a firm commitment to bringing about change within their institutions.”

    2023-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9475 (2023) · source

32. “I thank Under-Secretary- General Lacroix and the other briefers for their insightful briefings. I also express our appreciation to the peacekeeping personnel, including the Police Commissioners here today, for carrying out their enormous responsibilities in a challenging environment. The United Nations police play an essential role in United Nations peacekeeping operations, particularly by providing capacity-building for national law-enforcement agencies. Strengthening host States’ rule-of-law capacities and institutions is not only crucial to ensuring short-term post-conflict stability but also to facilitating long-term peacebuilding. In that regard, progress during the deployment of peacekeeping missions also enhances the humanitarian-development-security nexus, which lays the groundwork for achieving sustainable peace.”

    2023-11-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9475 (2023) · source

33. “Russia’s targeting of civilian infrastructure across Ukraine, including housing complexes, hospitals, schools, energy facilities and other essential installations for life jeopardizes the welfare and future of the Ukrainian people. Indiscriminate attacks on innocent civilian populations constitute war crimes. There must be no tolerance or impunity for war crimes and other atrocities. We urge all parties to uphold international humanitarian principles. One thing is clear — no attacks on civilians would have occurred if Russia had not launched its aggression against Ukraine. We once again urge Russia to stop its ongoing aggression and immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw its troops and military equipment from the entire internationally recognized territory of Ukraine.”

    2023-11-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9470 (2023) · source

34. “I thank Assistant Secretary-General Jenča for his briefing. We are concerned about the continuous aggression in eastern Ukraine by Russia. Let me express our condolences for all those who have been killed since the beginning of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. We do not need to reiterate that Donetsk is an integral part of Ukraine. That region has been under temporary occupation as a result of Russia’s aggression, in violation of the sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine. That is explicitly stated in the resolutions adopted in that regard by an overwhelming majority of the General Assembly.”

    2023-11-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9470 (2023) · source

35. “In our experience there are two basic prerequisites for a solution: the political will of leaders to tackle the causes and to settle for peace, and the international determination to push for peace and then to consolidate it”. Let us demonstrate this political will and gather this international determination. The plight of refugees must be alleviated, and the Security Council ought to lead by example.”

    2023-10-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9465 (2023) · source

36. “In that regard, it is imperative to embrace a comprehensive and inclusive approach to refugee situations. One way to do so is to amplify synergies between the public and private sectors. Fast Retailing, the parent company of UNIQLO, has a 12-year partnership with UNHCR. Under that initiative, Fast Retailing has been providing a sewing skills training programme in Bangladesh. That public-private partnership initiative exemplifies the positive impact such cooperation can have on refugees. Japan calls on Member States to explore and forge similar partnerships that are meaningful for refugees. The late Sadako Ogata once said that, “refugee problems may often seem intractable, but they are not insoluble.”

    2023-10-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9465 (2023) · source

37. “Moreover, those development strategies should be in sync with peacebuilding efforts. That dual approach will ensure that we address not just the symptoms but also the root causes of displacement, while crafting durable solutions in the process. By integrating humanitarian, development and peacebuilding efforts, we can pave the way for a future where refugees and host communities alike can experience enhanced human security and increased self-sufficiency. In that vein, Japan has initiated a stakeholder pledge, emphasizing the humanitarian- development-peace nexus in anticipation of the second Global Refugee Forum, to be held in December. We are eager and ready to join hands with all stakeholders willing to be a part of this journey. The second Global Refugee Forum should also be a catalyst for fostering whole-of-society engagement.”

    2023-10-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9465 (2023) · source

38. “The hostages must be released immediately without any conditions. The international community should never tolerate such heinous acts. At the same time, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic. The Palestinian people are in desperate need of food, water, fuel and medicine. We need to scale up our assistance to meet these urgent needs. It is important for us to redouble our diplomatic efforts so that the situation calms down and does not spill over across the region. With the number of displaced persons soaring past 110 million, the international community must rally together. Immediate relief aid, although essential, is just a part of the solution. We must think long-term, focusing on sustainable development initiatives that not only address immediate needs but also lay the foundation for lasting stability.”

    2023-10-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9465 (2023) · source

39. “I would like to start by thanking the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for his insightful briefing. The dedication of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), especially when working in challenging environments, such as Afghanistan and Myanmar, is truly commendable. As a major contributor to UNHCR, Japan pledges our steadfast support to ensure that UNHCR’s endeavours continue strong. Our top political leadership also conveyed Japan’s strong resolve during the High Commissioner’s recent visit to Japan a few weeks ago. The High Commissioner’s remarks are a vivid alert that the increase in global conflict zones leads to displacement and a growing disregard for international humanitarian law. Japan once again unequivocally condemns Hamas’s brutal terror attack on Israel and its taking of hostages.”

    2023-10-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9465 (2023) · source

40. “Since the Central African Republic’s return to democracy, Japan has extended its assistance to support the country in its efforts to build a stable democratic nation, as well as to address its humanitarian challenges. We are deeply concerned about the human rights violations committed by armed groups and State actors, including other security personnel mentioned in the report of the Secretary-General (S/2023/108) as allegedly responsible. We hope that MINUSCA will continue to engage the Government with regard to such situations and to report back to the Security Council. Japan will continue to explore how we can best help the Central African Republic address its multifaceted challenges in order to enable us to grow together.”

    2023-02-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9265 (2023) · source

41. “The conduct of credible, peaceful and inclusive elections will serve as a springboard to garner people’s confidence in the State’s authority. Ensuring the security of voters is of primary importance for its success. In that regard, we welcome the recent security plan for the elections, signed by the Government of the Central African Republic and MINUSCA. Furthermore, institution-building in the justice sector at the national and local levels is essential to promoting the rule of law in the Central African Republic. The current progress in the fight against impunity, including through the Special Criminal Court, is a significant development for long-term reconciliation.”

    2023-02-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9265 (2023) · source

42. “We further encourage the leadership and engagement of Angola, as Chair of the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region, as well as of the Economic Community of Central African States and African Union as guarantors. The agreed quarterly monitoring process should be utilized as envisaged to boost regional cooperation. Cross-border flows of armed combatants, arms and conflict minerals need to be urgently addressed. The Central African Republic and neighbouring countries should be united to strengthen border controls through regional arrangements. Finally, good governance is the key to ensuring sustained peace and stability in the country. Upcoming local elections must be able to provide a solid foundation for the much-awaited extension of State authority in rural areas.”

    2023-02-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9265 (2023) · source

43. “We welcome the Government’s commitment to the dissolution of four armed groups that are signatories to the Political Agreement. Demonstrating the successful cases of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration and the benefits of reconciliation is essential in facilitating future engagement with the majority of armed groups that have not yet laid down their weapons. Reported political confrontations over constitutional reform should not derail the Government’s reconciliation efforts. Incitement of violence by all sides must cease. Secondly, regional arrangements need to play a more active role in addressing the fragility of the region. We welcome the strategic review meeting held in Bangui last June. It brought about vital momentum for progress made under the Luanda road map and the continued implementation of the Political Agreement.”

    2023-02-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9265 (2023) · source

44. “Prolonged conflicts and hostilities have too long prevented the people of the Central African Republic and the greater region from achieving their full potential. The 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic remains the key instrument for achieving that goal, and its full implementation continues to be the highest priority. In that regard, I would like to emphasize three important points related to MINUSCA’s mandate. First, reconciliation through inclusive and constructive dialogue among all stakeholders, including armed groups, should be at the core of any efforts of the Government of the Central African Republic to strengthen and achieve peace and stability in its State.”

    2023-02-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9265 (2023) · source

45. “I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Rugwabiza and the Chair of the Central African Republic country-specific configuration of the Peacebuilding Commission, Ambassador Hilale, for their insightful briefings and contributions. I would also like to thank the Foreign Minister of the Central African Republic, Ms. Baipo Temon, for her presence at today’s meeting. Japan commends the tireless effort of the personnel of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and would also like to pay tribute to all of those who have made sacrifices. Achieving lasting peace and stability in the Central African Republic is long overdue.”

    2023-02-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9265 (2023) · source