Statement by H.E. Ambassador MIKANAGI Tomohiro, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Haiti

Thank you, Madam President.
 
I appreciate SRSG Ms. Salvador's insightful briefing. I also thank Executive Director Ms. Russell and Ms. Ducéna, for their informative briefing. I welcome Foreign Minister of the Dominican Republic, Mr. Alvarez as well as the representatives of Haiti and Kenya.
 
Haiti’s security situation remains dire, with continued killings and kidnappings. We strongly condemn all forms of violence and illegal activities led by gangs, including sexual and gender-based violence, human rights abuses, trafficking and exploitation. These actions have plunged innocent people into a severe humanitarian crisis. We also emphasize that the any form of supportive actions to the gang groups should be forbidden.
 
Madam President,
 

Japan believes that uniting every effort is the key to address Haiti’s security and humanitarian situation. Let me elaborate on the following four points today.

 
First, Japan supports the central role of BINUH in coordinating the national and international efforts. I am encouraged by SRSG Salvador and her office’s effort to foster collaboration among the Haitian transitional authorities, the Haitian National Police (HNP), UN Country Team including UNICEF and UNODC, civil society, the Panel of Experts of the Sanctions Committee, and regional and international partners. It maximises the impact of their activities on the peace and security of Haiti.
 
Second, we commend the collaborative operation of the HNP with the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission. We also commend Kenya, Jamaica, Belize, Bahamas, and all contributing countries for their efforts. Japan looks forward to the report to be submitted by the leadership of the mission to the Security Council on the implementation of its mandate. Japan hopes to see more detailed information on resources required for the mission to effectively support the HNP, which will enable the international community to offer more targeted support. This will also allow the Security Council to consider potential options, including its transition to a UN Peacekeeping Operation, to sustain the mission’s achievements.

Japan on its part has provided assistance of approximately 14 million USD to contribute to the MSS Mission that includes providing equipment to the HNP and improving its academy, and calls once again on the international community to provide further assistance to the mission.
 
Third, Japan welcomes the unanimous adoption of the renewal of the UN sanction measures last Friday and call on all Member States, including Haiti, to implement the provisions diligently. The new resolution encourages greater coordination among relevant bodies to garner support for strengthening the capacity of the HNP and Haitian border and customs authorities.
 
Last but not least, Japan stresses the importance of solidarity among Haitian stakeholders especially during the upcoming political transition period. This will be the foundation for strong governance through holding free and fair elections. We are encouraged by the appointment of seven members of the Provisional Electoral Council from each sector. We also look forward to the swift establishment of the Provisional Electoral Council; Justice, Truth, and Reparation Commission; the Governmental Actions Oversight Body; and the National Security Council, among others, as Mr. Voltaire mentioned. We hope that all actors will work together in good faith dedicated towards the peace and security that Haitian people deserve.
 
Japan has stood and will continue to stand alongside the Haitian people. We have recently signed and exchanged the notes with UN Women for the "Project for the Enhancement of Women’s Leadership for Peace and Social Cohesion" to provide about 2.5 million USD for the protection and empowerment of Haitian women, in addition to our ongoing security, electoral, and humanitarian assistance.   
 
Once again, let me assure you of Japan’s continued commitment, alongside the members of this Council and all other partners.
 
I thank you, Madam President.