Statement by H.E. Ambassador SHINO Mitsuko, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing, Agenda item "Cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organization (EU)"

Madam President,
 
I would like to welcome High Representative Borrell to the Security Council, and thank him for his insightful and enlightening briefing.
 
We also thank Malta’s Presidency for hosting such an important meeting in a timely manner.
 
Madam President,
 
Regional organizations play an indispensable and complimentary role in enabling the Security Council to fulfil its primary responsibility for the maintenance of peace and security. Cooperations with regional organizations are built in Chapter VIII of the Charter, and their role has become more important. In this context, Japan values cooperation between the EU and the United Nations under the framework of Chapter VIII of the UN Charter.
 
We appreciate that the EU has consistently demonstrated leadership and commitment garnering vital international attention and support on current issues on a global scale.
 
For example, the EU’s Global Gateway initiative is quite important to create sustainable and trustworthy connections to tackle the most pressing global challenges. We welcome the announcement of a huge investment package at the EU-AU summit and the EU-ASEAN summit last year.
 
Japan is more than willing to work with the EU to promote international connectivity as well as green and digital cooperation. Our security cooperation has also deepened. The EU and Japan have conducted more than 25 joint anti-piracy exercises in the Gulf of Aden.
 
Japan and the EU are global strategic partners that share the fundamental values of democracy, freedom, and human rights. We deeply appreciate the EU and its members’ active participation in the open debate on the rule of law at the Security Council last month which Japan convened as the President.
 
Madam President,
 
In the midst of the tumultuous situation, the EU plays an indispensable role for the international community by solid and strong support for Ukraine and other regional partners.
 
We have worked together tirelessly for international peace and security on various issues other than Ukraine as well, and will continue to do so.
 
I thank you.