Statement by H.E. Ambassador OSUGA Takeshi, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Special Meeting of the Counter-Terrorism Committee Commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the Adoption of Security Council Resolution 1373 (2001) and the Establishment of the Committee

2021/11/4
Mr. Chair,
 
Let me start by thanking you for the holding of this special meeting. Japan would like to take a moment to send our deepest prayers for those who lost their lives and loved ones in the horrendous September 11th terrorist attacks, including our own nationals.
 
Mr. Chair,
 
Despite a range of counter-terrorism (CT) efforts over the last two decades, terrorism remains one of the most serious threats to international peace and security. The diversification of tactics, methods and motives adopted by terrorists is a source of great concern. Moreover, as the CTC Executive Directorate (CTED)’s recent report suggests, the international community needs to remain vigilant regarding the impact of COVID-19 on CT.
 
In support for the objectives set out in the relevant Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 1373, Japan has intensified its contributions, especially in the following key areas that require more attention than ever.
 
First, the suppression of terrorist financing. Convinced that this continues to be a critical means of constraining terrorist activities, Japan has steadily implemented relevant Security Council resolutions. Together with CTED and the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), we have assisted Member States in Asia in countering emerging forms of terrorist financing, such as the dark web and crypto assets.
 
Second, the prevention of the malicious use of the internet and emerging technology. Effective measures against online terrorist activities, including propaganda and recruitment, require multi-stakeholder cooperation. Japan has spearheaded such efforts by leading the issuance of the G20 Osaka Leaders’ Statement and engaging with the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism. Cognizant of the great potential and risk of AI, Japan has also supported the UNOCT’s Global Programme, which has promoted learning among Asian officials about the harnessing of AI in the CT context and issued a report for worldwide audience.
 
Third, the prevention of radicalization. As COVID-19 reveals various fragilities in society, it is urgent to redouble our effort to address causes that could be exploited by terrorists, including through the promotion of prosecution, rehabilitation and reintegration (PRR) of terrorists. This awareness led Japan to staunchly back CTED’s initiative to develop comprehensive and tailored PRR strategies in Southeast Asia and beyond.
 
Fourth, maritime security. Ensuring a peaceful and stable ocean, including through combatting terrorism-related acts, benefits the entire world. With this conviction, Japan has contributed about 26 million USD and technical assistance to the UNODC’s Global Maritime Crime Programme to date to enhance the capacities of maritime law enforcement in Asia and Africa. At the latest Review of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy this year, Japan led the discussion for strengthening maritime security, and is now ready to follow it up.
 
Mr. Chair,
 
To conclude, let me reassure you of Japan’s firm commitment to continuing to play its part in global CT efforts.
 
Thank you.