Statement by H.E. Ambassador SHINO Mitsuko, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing on “Syria’s Political & Humanitarian Situation”

 

Thank you, President.
 
I thank Special Envoy Pedersen and USG Griffiths for their valuable briefings and tireless work.
 
I would like to join other members of the Council to sincerely thank USG Griffiths in person, although we might have another occasion to thank you over the camera. Today, unfortunately, the world needs OCHA so badly, but fortunately, we have you to lead OCHA. Thank you.
 
Mr. President,
 
As the Syrian crisis enters its 14^th year, the humanitarian situation is at its worst level yet, the number of refugees continues to rise, the economy continues to deteriorate, basic infrastructure is extremely fragile, nine in 10 people live in poverty, and there are no prospects for a political solution.
 
As the Special Envoy often says, the status quo is untenable and will eventually lead to an explosion that risks further regional destabilization.
 
Mr. President,
 
Japan has continued its engagement with the Syrian government and other parties concerned, recognizing the importance of the three pillars of (1) advancing the political process in accordance with Security Council Resolution 2254, (2) fostering an environment conducive to the return of refugees, and (3) strengthening cooperation with the international community.
 
First, as noted by the Special Envoy, the political process is in serious jeopardy. We see a fundamental problem in the lack of trust between the Syrian government and other key stakeholders.
 
In this regard, the Syrian government should engage more constructively toward the resumption of the Constitutional Committee, which is the only platform for the opposition to participate in the political process.
 
Second, the environment for a safe, dignified, and voluntary return of Syrian refugees is not in place as of today. The growing dissatisfaction with Syrian refugees in some neighboring countries is also a matter of great concern. We welcome the progress in discussions between the Syrian government and UNHCR on this matter. To this end, Japan will strengthen its assistance, including through community support, to contribute to the early return of refugees and IDPs.
 
Third, a foundation of trust is essential to strengthen cooperation, and trust is built through a series of positive actions. We welcome the Syrian government's recent consent to extend the use of Bab Al-Salam and Al-Ra’ee crossings. We highly value the efforts of USG Griffiths and his team in this regard.
 
Mr. President,
 
With no political progress, “aid-fatigue” has set in. We must commit ourselves to actual pledges and seek more efficient means of assistance, including through early recovery support as highlighted at the recent 8^th Brussels Conference. Also, the Syrian government must take further steps, including in the political process for the international community to further strengthen its support to Syria.
 
Japan, for its part, decided to provide additional early recovery assistance totaling approximately 25 million USD this year. Our assistance includes medical care, education, and water and sanitation, and is based on a whole-of-Syria approach across a wide range of areas, regardless of whether they are under government or non-government control.
 
Mr. President,
 
Japan, as a responsible Council member, continues to make its utmost effort through engaging with the Syrian government and other parties to resolve this longstanding crisis in accordance with Resolution 2254. The people of Syria deserve no less.
 
I thank you, Mr. President.