Statement by Mr. KITA Yosuke, Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, at the adoption of the WASH resolution(L.14) on Agenda Item 125 “Global Health and Foreign Policy”, 48th plenary meeting of 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

Honorable President,
Distinguished Delegates,
Esteemed Colleagues,
 
Today, as we stand on the threshold of adopting the #WASH resolution, I am honored to represent Japan. I would like to express our profound gratitude to our colleagues from the Philippines and Hungary, whose dedication as facilitators was instrumental in shaping this pivotal resolution. This resolution, pivotal to ensuring sustainable, safe, and universal water, sanitation, hygiene, waste, and electricity services in healthcare facilities, aligns seamlessly with our unwavering commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
 
Japan, guided by our ethos of human security and inclusivity, strongly believes in the transformative power of universal health coverage and comprehensive healthcare. Our support for this resolution is a reflection of our deep-seated conviction that every individual deserves access to essential health services, irrespective of their circumstances.
 
In this context, I wish to honor Dr. Tetsu Nakamura, who tragically lost his life in Afghanistan on December 4, 2019. His dedication to humanitarian work and his efforts in Afghanistan, particularly in building canal projects and transforming arid lands into fertile grounds, exemplify the spirit of this resolution.
 
Dr. Nakamura’s approach was holistic, addressing the root causes of poor health, such as malnutrition and unsanitary conditions. His work in constructing hospitals and promoting agricultural development was instrumental in creating sustainable communities and strengthening primary healthcare.
 
As we remember Dr. Nakamura today, let us reaffirm our commitment to the principles he stood for – compassion, resilience, and a belief in a better world. His legacy inspires our efforts towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
 
In closing, I am proud to announce that Japan joins Hungary and the Philippines as a co-sponsor of this initiative. We are committed to accelerating our efforts to realize this resolution's vision and actively support capacity building in developing countries. Together, let's honor Dr. Nakamura's memory by working tirelessly towards a world where no one is left behind, where every individual has access to the highest attainable standard of health.
 
Thank you.