Statement by H.E. Ambassador MIKANAGI Tomohiro, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Arria-Formula Meeting on Upholding the Sanctity of Treaties for the Maintenance of International Peace and Security

Thank you, Mr. Chair.
 
The topic of today’s Arria Formula Meeting is particularly relevant to us given the current state of international relations. The role of international law in maintaining international peace and security should be emphasized in today's unstable international environment.
 
The maintenance of international peace and security cannot be achieved unless international law is respected and applied in good faith. Multilateral and bilateral agreements between parties constitute an important pillar of international law, and in some cases their interpretation and application may have impacts on regional and international peace and security.
 
Therefore, the compliance of parties with the obligations stipulated in such international agreements is critical in maintaining international peace and security.
 
In this regard, we stress that respecting and adhering to mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes is of utmost importance. Looking at past conflicts, disagreements over treaty interpretation can trigger escalation from legal disputes to conflicts involving the use of force.
 
Many States have wisely utilized existing dispute resolution mechanisms such as international judicial bodies like the ICJ, as well as arbitration to prevent disagreements over treaty interpretation from endangering the maintenance of international peace and security. The United Nations and its Member States should encourage the utilization of such mechanisms to avoid escalations that threaten international peace and security.
 
Japan accepted compulsory jurisdiction under Article 36, paragraph 2 of the ICJ Statute in 1958 and has consistently committed to the peaceful settlement of disputes. We strongly call on those that have not yet done so to make such declarations. Taking this step clearly testifies their strong commitment to the rule of law.
 
Upholding a free and open international order based on the rule of law is in the common interest of the entire international community. As stipulated in Article 2, paragraph 3, and Article 33 of the United Nations Charter, it is the duty of each nation to strive to resolve disputes peacefully. Japan will endeavor to further promote the rule of law.
 
I thank you, Mr. Chair.