Statement by Mr. MOTOGISHI Reiki, Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, on the Revitalization of the Work of the General Assembly

Thank you Mr. President,
Distinguished Co-Chairs,
 
At this critical juncture for the United Nations, Japan reaffirms its strong support for the General Assembly as the most inclusive and representative organ of the Organization and as the central forum for global deliberation. We must build on the momentum of General Assembly resolution 79/327 and translate its commitments into concrete action to further strengthen the GA’s role and impact.
 
First, Japan underscores the importance of closer coordination between the General Assembly, the Security Council, ECOSOC, and the Peacebuilding Commission. We particularly welcome the renewed emphasis in the GA resolution A/80/293 A on coordination and complementarity between the GA and ECOSOC. Such coherence is essential to strengthening the humanitarian-development-peace nexus, given the importance of ensuring that our efforts across these three spheres are mutually reinforcing.

Japan also supports the dissemination of the digital handbook on the General Assembly’s role in peace and security, including through its support for the development of the dedicated website. We believe these efforts can serve as practical tools to enhance the GA’s contribution to peace and security and complement the work of the Security Council.
 
Second, Japan attaches great importance to streamlining the working methods of the General Assembly to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the UN system. Building on the progress achieved during the 80th session, including the adoption of the GA resolution A/80/555/Add.1 on the working methods of the Second Committee, we encourage Member States to maintain this momentum into the 81st session.

This effort should also be pursued in close connection with the UN80 Initiative, including through mandate discipline and the effective use of retirement clauses. Japan will continue to support these efforts.
 
Third, while bearing in mind that the selection process for the next Secretary-General is underway, Japan would like to reiterate the importance of further enhancing transparency, inclusivity and predictability in this process, as outlined in the letter submitted by former Japanese Ambassador Bessho (A/71/774-S/2017/93).

Japan would also like to remind that the recommendation of the Security Council to the General Assembly should be made in a timely manner so that the appointment by the Assembly allows the newly appointed Secretary-General sufficient time to prepare for a smooth transition and an effective start to their mandate.
 
Mr. President,
 
Japan recognizes the vital role of the OPGA (Office of the President of the General Assembly) in facilitating dialogue, building consensus, and advancing our collective work. Japan has supported the OPGA in various ways, including through its engagement with the new Office of the 81st PGA, and will continue to extend its support to successive Offices.
 
In closing, Japan remains committed to working with all Member States to strengthen the General Assembly and advance effective multilateralism at a time when a strong, effective, and representative General Assembly is more important than ever.
 
I thank you.