Explanation of Vote by H.E. Ambassador SHINO Mitsuko, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Adoption of the Mandate Renewal of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti

Thank you, Mr. President. I also thank Ecuador and the United States as the co-penholders for leading the Council to renew this important mandate.

At the outset, I would like to applaud the courage, efforts, and dedication of the Haitian National Police (HNP) as they fight to restore the normal daily life to their ordinary people, securing the safety on the ground. We also commend the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission who are aiding them in this endeavor.

Japan has voted in favour of the resolution to extend the mandate of the MSS Mission because there remains a strong need for effective international support to Haiti to tackle the continued insecurity and threats posed by gangs, as requested by the Haitian government.

The Haitian government has also reiterated the need to secure the resources sustainably, including to start discussions on the transformation of the MSS Mission into a United Nations peace keeping operation. Taking their request, the Security Council should start considering possible options.

When the Council authorized to form and deploy the Mission last year, its purpose was firmly grounded in supporting the HNP, including capacity building efforts, in strict compliance with international law. Now that the mandate continues, it is essential for both the Mission and the Security Council to continuously assess the Mission's activities, operations, and format to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability. In this regard, we look forward to the leadership of the MSS Mission reporting to the Security Council and developing strategy as requested in paragraphs 18 and 20 of resolution 2699 (2023), respectively.

We again show our sincere appreciation to Kenya, Jamaica, and other contributing countries. We encourage other Member States to provide personnel, financial and material support, and expertise to the MSS Mission and any related efforts. We further call for effective coordination among donors and the UN system to create synergies and maximize the impact of their contributions.

Let me conclude by reaffirming our unwavering commitment, together with the international community, to support the