Statement by Mr. IRIYA Takayuki, Minister, Political Coordinator, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Sudan

Mr. President,
 
I thank ASG Pobee for her briefing.
 
Let me begin my statement by reiterating Japan’s strong call on the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to stop fighting immediately, allow unhindered humanitarian access, return to a peaceful and inclusive political process, and uphold international humanitarian law including by ensuring the safety of civilians. We are seriously concerned by warnings of the potential for the expansion of current clashes into a full-blown civil war.

Japan is deeply disturbed by the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan. Reports of ethnically motivated attacks and sexual- and gender-based violence are alarming. We are also concerned by the outbreak of infectious diseases given the dysfunctional healthcare system and lack of humanitarian access to the affected areas. An influx of displaced persons could pose a risk to neighbouring countries, which generously host refugees despite their own challenges.
 
To pressure the parties to stop fighting, it is imperative that the international community unite and speak with one voice. In this regard, Japan welcomes the recent resumption of the Jeddah talks, which have led to the Statement of Commitment, and thanks the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United States, the AU, and IGAD among others for their efforts to putting both parties on negotiation. The parties must abide by the commitment by ensuring safe, sustained, and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance to those in need. The Security Council should work more closely with the relevant international and regional actors to ensure the coherence of all efforts to realize a ceasefire.
 
Mr. President,
 
Japan takes note of the Secretary-General’s intention to conduct a strategic review of UNITAMS. While Japan’s support for the mission is unchanged, we recognize the need for the United Nations and the mission to adapt to the complex situation on the ground. Japan calls on Sudan, the host country, to fully cooperate with the UN in this regard. We look forward to receiving the results of the review in January 2024 as the Secretary-General mentioned so that the Security Council can discuss how the UN can best contribute to peace and security in Sudan and the region.
 
I thank you.