Statement by Dr. MIZUTA Shinichi, Minister Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, at the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) Ambassadorial-Level Meeting on Burundi
2021/7/6
(Check against delivery)
Thank you, Chair, for organizing this session and the same gratitude goes to all the briefers for their insights.It is welcoming to hear the Burundian government's strong commitment and ongoing efforts for national reconciliation, social cohesion, peace and stability as well as sustainable development. The newly presented national program (National Program for the Capitalization of Peace, Social Stability and Promotion of Economic Growth) brings high hopes for achieving people's long aspiration. The international community should help further accumulate the current positive momentum towards peace and prosperity based on Burundi's own initiative.
Formidable challenges, however, remain ahead. The global pandemic has a lingering impact on vulnerable communities. High mobility of populations including returnees across borders with neighboring countries, lack of strong surveillance and health systems make it difficult to control the infection. Another challenge is cross-border flow of illegal weapons and drugs, destabilizing the society. Rehabilitation of the national economy is also an acute task to address human security situations.
Japan has been supporting Burundi over time for addressing such challenges through institution and capacity building under the banner of the New Approach for Peace and Stability in Africa, or NAPSA, launched at TICAD7 held in 2019.
First, in order to tackle imminent threats posed by COVID-19, Japan, through IOM, supports national and regional health authorities of Burundi with infection prevention and control at key border locations.
Second, Japan has contributed to building cross border surveillance and management capacities by providing technical training and security equipment. It is expected to help control of both infectious disease and flow of illegal goods.
Third, further economic development needs high-quality infrastructure base and increased connectivity. Japan has been supporting renewal and expansion of Bujumbura Port, the largest port in the country. Vibrant regional trade should further create economic opportunities for the youth, promoting capitalization of peace and stability.
Japan continues to join Burundi's national endeavor for sustainable development.
I thank you.