Statement by Dr. MIZUTA Shinichi, Minister Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, at the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) Ambassadorial-Level Meeting on Piracy in the Gulf of Guinea

2021/6/30
(Check against delivery)
Thank you, Chair,
 
Allow me first to express my appreciation to the Chair for convening today’s important meeting, and also I would like to thank the SRSGs, of UNOWAS, and of UNOCA, Head of the UNODC, and all the other briefers for their valuable inputs.
 
The alarming recent increase in piracy cases in the Gulf of Guinea is the manifestation of further exacerbation of instability on the ground.  Piracy poses grave threats to human security and economic activities together with the continued COVID-19 pandemic.
 
Strengthening law enforcement, establishing good governance, and developing economic opportunities for all are imminent challenges for the entire region. The international community should continue to support more coordinated efforts led by ECOWAS, ECCAS, and GGC together with UN organizations. PBC, in this regard, can offer a unique platform for the said coordination.
 
Japan has been helping institution building in the region; focusing on capacity development of law enforcement and justice sectors. Maritime officials from countries around the Gulf of Guinea have been invited for the training. Also, at peacekeeping training centers in Ghana and Nigeria, we support analyzing the multifaceted root causes of piracy, formulating counterpiracy education curriculum, and organizing maritime crimes control training.
 
Making a free, open and secure Gulf of Guinea based on the rule of law requires long-term efforts of the region and international support. As a maritime nation, Japan remains committed to contributing to such cause with New Approach for Peace and Stability in Africa (NAPSA) launched at TICAD7 held in 2019. 
 
I thank you.