Statement by Ms. FUJINO Yuka, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations at the Ambassadorial-Level Meeting of the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) Guinea-Bissau Configuration

2023/3/13
Thank you, Chair, for convening this meeting and for your in-depth briefing on your visit to Guinea-Bissau. I also thank the briefers for their insightful remarks.
 
The visit by the PBC Chair and the PBC delegation provides us with valuable information about the current situation in the country and observations from our colleagues who share the common goal as PBC members of supporting the country’s peacebuilding priorities. Moreover, the high-level visit to the country is a unique opportunity for the Commission to demonstrate its continued attention and commitment to the people and Government of Guinea-Bissau. Japan expresses its appreciation to Ambassador Filho and the delegation for the initiative.
 
On this note, I would like to highlight two points:
 
Japan welcomes the setting of 4 June 2023 as the date of the legislative elections and the steady preparations towards the holding of the election. I am delighted to note that the assistance provided by Japan in collaboration with UNDP to help build strong institutions for sustaining peace is contributing to the ongoing election process. Japan encourages all stakeholders to engage in inclusive political dialogue towards conducting a free, fair and transparent election.
 
Japan also welcomes the commitment expressed by the Government of Guinea-Bissau to continue to build an inclusive participatory democracy with strong institutions under the rule of law. It is our strong belief that strengthening and enhancing the capacities of state institutions to be more democratic and accountable is essential to enhance trust between the Government and the people. Japan calls on the Government to continue this endeavour while, at the centre of its efforts, placing the empowerment and inclusion of women, youth, and people in vulnerable situations.
 
To conclude, Japan remains committed to continuing our cooperation in Guinea-Bissau’s journey towards establishing lasting peace.
 
I thank you.