Statement by H.E. Ambassador ISHIKANE Kimihiro, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing, Agenda item “The situation in Mali”

I thank Special Representative Wane and Ms. Dicko for their insightful briefings. I also welcome the participation of Minister Diop.
 
Japan also joins others and reiterate the condolences to the loss of lives of all peacekeepers, including the two Nigerians.
 
Peace and stability in Mali is the hope and desire of the Malian people. A return to constitutional order and the consolidation of democracy and the rule of law are, therefore, imperative for Malians to decide their future themselves.
 
Japan notes the political progress made, including the Presidential decree in December to establish a committee to finalize the draft Constitution. We commend ECOWAS’ continued efforts, with the support of the AU and the UN, to assist the Malian authorities to meet the transition deadline of March 2024. Japan stresses the importance of unobstructed and constructive participation by all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society, women and youth, in the transitional reform process.
 
Japan believes that the 2015 Peace Agreement remains the only existing framework to achieve sustainable peace and ensure the territorial integrity of Mali. Japan encourages all parties to continue to engage in productive and decisive dialogue for the implementation of the Peace Agreement.
 
We are deeply concerned over the worsening security situation in Mali. Japan acknowledges the continued efforts by the Malian forces to address insecurity. We are, however, disturbed by the UN’s documentation of human rights violations allegedly committed by Malian and foreign security personnel. Japan will continue to support the capacity building of security officers on international humanitarian and human rights laws and on gender issues.
 
The role of MINUSMA remains pivotal as Mali continues to face multifaceted challenges. Japan applauds the efforts of MINUSMA amidst its continuing high toll of casualties of which Japan is greatly concerned. The high number of IED attacks remains alarming. Japan give thanks to the Troop and Police Contributing Countries and pays tribute to all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Recognizing the unprecedented difficulties the Mission faces, Japan calls upon the Malian authority to cooperate with MINUSMA to ensure the Mission’s secure and uninterrupted movement to fulfil its mandate and on MINUSMA to further improve its communication with the Malian authority and local communities.
 
Japan welcomes the submission of the internal review of MINUSMA, providing us with a clear view of the status of MINUSMA and the parameters on which the discussion of options for MINISUMA should be based. Japan looks forward to engaging with our colleagues in discussing the future of MINUSMA in the coming months.
 
In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that the Council is here to assist the people and government of Mali. Strengthening cooperation between Malians and the international community is the best way forward. I would like to reiterate our solidarity with the people of Mali and their hope for a stable and peaceful country and our strong support for MINUSMA.
 
I thank you.