Statement by Mr. MIYAJI Takuma, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, at the Security Council High Level Open Debate "Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes"

Mr. President,

I thank Pakistan for organizing this important debate. My appreciation also goes to Secretary-General António Guterres for his insightful briefing.

In the face of today’s complex global challenges, multilateralism, with the United Nations at its core, stands at a critical juncture.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. It is urgent to reform this organization so that it can fulfill its purposes, particularly with regard to maintaining international peace and security, and respond to the needs of our era including achieving the SDGs.

Japan believes that a human security approach, which links the peace, development, and humanitarian resources of the UN, is more important than ever in realizing these noble missions, and will continue to further promote it.

In this context, Japan welcomes the Secretary-General’s leadership on the UN 80 initiative.

Mr. President,

To address the complex challenges we face, the international community must unite and mobilize all available means. In this regard, Japan firmly believes that the rule of law is the foundation of multilateralism.

We must not tolerate any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force as it would undermine the very premise of multilateralism under the UN Charter.

Japan will continue to work closely with the international community to maintain and strengthen the free and open international order based on the rule of law.

Mr. President,

Japan has been actively engaged in the UN’s peacebuilding efforts as a member of the Peacebuilding Commission or PBC. The PBC's strength lies in its ability to engage at all stages of conflict, from prevention to resolution and peace consolidation.

With its convening power, the PBC also has the potential to promote the humanitarian-development-peace nexus. Therefore, we must further strengthen collaboration between the Security Council and the PBC.

To make the UN peacebuilding system more effective and efficient, Japan continues to constructively engage in this year's Peacebuilding Architecture Review.

Mr. President,

In order for the UN to address today’s pressing peace and security challenges, the Security Council must be reformed as a matter of priority and without delay.

It is essential to make the Council more representative, legitimate, and effective, including through the expansion of both permanent and non-permanent categories.

To conclude, Mr. President,

Japan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to multilateralism as a responsible member of the UN. To maintain international peace and security, extend a hand to those in need, and tackle global challenges, we will continue to show our leadership in enhancing the UN’s ability.

I thank you.