Statement by Mr. HAMAMOTO Yukiya, Minister of the Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing, Agenda Item “Threats to International Peace and Security”

Thank you, Mr. President.
 
I thank briefers for their briefings.
 
Freedom of religion or belief is an indispensable, and universal principle shared in the global community.
 
In the international community, we have been witnessing countless serious human rights violations which undermine the foundation of people’s lives and societies as a whole. We always stand ready to discuss human rights issues affecting international peace and security.
 
Mr. President,

Russia is attempting to employ narratives to paint itself as a guardian of religious freedom.
 
However, when it comes to attacks on religious facilities, Russia has inflicted tremendous damage on Ukraine. We strongly condemn the Russian recent missile attacks on Odesa that resulted in civilian causalities and damaged the UNESCO-protected Cathedral.

After all, without peace and stability, freedom of religion will be undermined.
 
Let me repeat in the strongest possible terms – Russia must withdraw all of its troops and military equipment from Ukraine and respect Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
 
I thank you.