Statement by H.E. Ambassador ISHIKANE Kimihiro, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing (UNMIK: United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo)
2023/4/27
(As delivered)
Mr. President,
I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ms. Caroline Ziadeh for her briefing.
Since its establishment in 1999, UNMIK has played an important role in supporting Kosovo as it builds its constitution, government and parliament. Even after the reconfiguration, UNMIK's work continues to contribute to peace and stability in Kosovo and the region.
Japan commends UNMIK staff for their commitment, and we thank SRSG Ziadeh for her leadership and active engagement with local and international partners, particularly during periods of high tension, to encourage de-escalation, promoting mutual trust at the grassroots level, and the continuation of efforts to settle outstanding issues.
We were concerned that tensions between Kosovo and Serbia escalated late last year. However, as a result of the efforts of the parties, both sides agreed on the “Agreement on the path to normalization between Kosovo and Serbia" proposed by the EU on 27 February, followed by the “Implementation Annex of the Agreement” on 18 March. Japan welcomes these agreements and closely monitor the developments.
We also recognize that the situation in Kosovo is very different from when UNMIK was established. Therefore, while taking into account the political and social developments and efforts made by all stakeholders involved thus far, we believe it is necessary to review UNMIK's functions and mandate, including the possibility of reducing or eliminating overlaps with the activities of the EU and the OSCE.
Japan attaches great importance to dialogues between Kosovo and Serbia. The normalization of relations between the two countries through the EU-facilitated Belgrade-Pristina dialogue will contribute to peace and stability in the Western Balkans. Japan expects both countries to implement the Agreement in good faith.
Furthermore, we continue to support Kosovo's efforts towards EU membership. We believe that the ongoing reforms and progress in the country will lead to further steps in this direction. We encourage Kosovo to continue working towards improving its economy, governance, and human rights situation, and to engage constructively in the EU-facilitated dialogue towards this end.
In conclusion, Japan remains committed to supporting the international community’s efforts to promote peace, stability, and reconciliation in the region. We stand ready to work with all stakeholders to achieve this goal.
I thank you.
I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ms. Caroline Ziadeh for her briefing.
Since its establishment in 1999, UNMIK has played an important role in supporting Kosovo as it builds its constitution, government and parliament. Even after the reconfiguration, UNMIK's work continues to contribute to peace and stability in Kosovo and the region.
Japan commends UNMIK staff for their commitment, and we thank SRSG Ziadeh for her leadership and active engagement with local and international partners, particularly during periods of high tension, to encourage de-escalation, promoting mutual trust at the grassroots level, and the continuation of efforts to settle outstanding issues.
We were concerned that tensions between Kosovo and Serbia escalated late last year. However, as a result of the efforts of the parties, both sides agreed on the “Agreement on the path to normalization between Kosovo and Serbia" proposed by the EU on 27 February, followed by the “Implementation Annex of the Agreement” on 18 March. Japan welcomes these agreements and closely monitor the developments.
We also recognize that the situation in Kosovo is very different from when UNMIK was established. Therefore, while taking into account the political and social developments and efforts made by all stakeholders involved thus far, we believe it is necessary to review UNMIK's functions and mandate, including the possibility of reducing or eliminating overlaps with the activities of the EU and the OSCE.
Japan attaches great importance to dialogues between Kosovo and Serbia. The normalization of relations between the two countries through the EU-facilitated Belgrade-Pristina dialogue will contribute to peace and stability in the Western Balkans. Japan expects both countries to implement the Agreement in good faith.
Furthermore, we continue to support Kosovo's efforts towards EU membership. We believe that the ongoing reforms and progress in the country will lead to further steps in this direction. We encourage Kosovo to continue working towards improving its economy, governance, and human rights situation, and to engage constructively in the EU-facilitated dialogue towards this end.
In conclusion, Japan remains committed to supporting the international community’s efforts to promote peace, stability, and reconciliation in the region. We stand ready to work with all stakeholders to achieve this goal.
I thank you.