Statement by H.E. Ambassador ISHIKANE Kimihiro, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Debate on Agenda Item 11 “Sport for development and peace: building a peaceful and better world through sport and the Olympic ideal”

Thank you, Mr. President,
 
We are grateful for the introduction of the resolution by Mr. Tony Estanguet, the President of the Paris 2024 Organization Committee.
 
Since the "Olympic Truce" resolution was first introduced on the occasion of the 1994 Lillehammer Winter Games, the state of the world has changed dramatically over the past 30 years. The spirit of this resolution, "Building a peaceful and better world through sport and the Olympic ideal," is once again gaining importance today. In this regard, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to France, the host country of the Paris 2024 Games, for its initiative in presenting this resolution.
 
In 2021, after a one-year postponement, Japan hosted the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, despite the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While people had to live under various restrictions, the athletes gave us dreams, hope, and the strength to move forward even under unprecedented circumstances through showing their insurmountable efforts towards the Games. The Tokyo 2020 Games taught us once again the value of sports.
 
The Tokyo 2020 Games also produced results in various initiatives that were promoted alongside the Games. One such initiative is the realization of an inclusive society, which aims for a society where all people, regardless of disability, gender, or age, can respect each other's human rights and dignity. The Tokyo 2020 Games promoted the awareness of a barrier-free mindset and expanded the use of universal design.
 
Another initiative is reconstruction and regional revitalization, in which our efforts directed towards aiding the reconstruction of areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011 and promoting the ongoing reconstruction progress with the world. Japan also advanced regional revitalization through host town exchanges between local municipal governments and athlete delegations.
 
Furthermore, with the aim of creating a sustainable society, the Tokyo 2020 Games achieved net zero carbon dioxide emissions by utilizing hydrogen energy and recycling technologies, and the Games also widely promoted public awareness of sustainability and lifestyle changes.

These achievements of the Tokyo 2020 Games have contributed to the ongoing legacy today. At the same time, we will continue our efforts to expand the Olympic and Paralympic movements through "Sports for Tomorrow," Japan's initiative to spread the value of sports around the world.
 
To conclude, Japan hopes that the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2024 will realize the ideals and objectives of this Olympic Truce resolution and succeed as the Paris 2024 slogan says--"Games wide open!"
 
I thank you.