Statement by H.E. Ambassador SHINO Mitsuko, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, on the General Assembly Decision on the IGN Roll Over

 
Thank you, Mr. President.
 
Japan fully aligns its position with the G4 statement delivered by Brazil. Let me emphasize some important points in my national capacity.
 
Given the many ongoing and imminent challenges to international peace and security, Security Council reform is more urgent than ever. To make the Council truly reflect contemporary realities, we must redouble our collective efforts to advance negotiations based on a concrete text, like any other negotiation in the UN, without further delay.
      
In this regard, the IGN during this session of the General Assembly has been productive. We have had intensive discussions on specific models of reform, and negotiated on a text to be submitted to the Summit of the Future process. It is notable advancement that, for the first time in the history of the IGN, the Member States discussed a text consisting of tens of paragraphs on substance of reform. Japan appreciates once again all the efforts of coordination and facilitation by the Co-Chairs and their entire team.

Mr. President,
 
While these are historic achievements, what is more important is how to advance negotiations building upon these steps after the Summit of the Future.
 
On one hand, the text submitted to the Pact for the Future includes many important actions to be taken, such as:

1.  working towards developing a consolidated model through structured dialogue;
2.  highlighting the importance of limiting the scope and use of the veto, especially in cases of preventing or ending genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes;
3.  recognizing historical injustice against Africa; and
4.  looking towards 2030 as a timeline to enlarge the Council to be more representative, just to name a few.

 
On the other hand, it is deeply regrettable that the text fails to mention the expansion of both permanent and non-permanent categories, which has long been supported by a significant number of Member States throughout the IGN process. This omission is unfair and inappropriate because it does not reflect the real discussion. It is understood that “taking into account the discussions held in the IGN process” refers to the majority support for the expansion in both categories as demonstrated in the models presented, the 2015 Framework Document and countless statements made by Member States and groups.

Mr. President,
 
This year’s Summit of the Future is a landmark opportunity, and next year is the 80^th anniversary of the UN. To bear substantial progress, we are eager to see the submission of more models and engage in efforts to create a consolidated model in the next IGN cycle. It will be another important year to boost momentum to advance reform in this critical time for international peace and security. We look forward to fruitful discussions with fellow Member States in the upcoming Summit and beyond.
 
I thank you, Mr. President.