Statement by H.E. Ambassador SHINO Mitsuko, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Colombia

2024/10/15

(As delivered)
 
Thank you, Madam President.
 
I thank SRSG Ruiz Massieu for his briefing. I also thank Ms. Quintero for her statement.
 
I extend a warm welcome to Foreign Minister Murillo and Interior Minister Cristo. Your past experience and expertise in implementing the Final Peace Agreement will be instrumental now to transforming the plans for peace into a reality for the people of Colombia.
 
We are especially encouraged by the new Rapid Response Plan, with the increased focus on rural reform. Territorial transformation requires a comprehensive approach mindful of the specific development challenges of each region. This will also be a key to achieving an integrated state presence throughout the country. Japan calls on all stakeholders to work together to take swift and concrete action on the Plan.  
 
Japan appreciates the SRSG and the UN Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMC) for providing operational and political support to Colombia’s efforts, including through their good offices. Japan fully supports the extension of the Mission’s mandate which is due at the end of this month and aims at allowing the mission to continue its operations effectively. We look forward to the mission’s continuous collaboration with the UN Country Team especially on the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2024-2027 for consolidation of peace, human security and social justice.
 
Today, I wish to highlight three points as we continue supporting Colombia’s peace process.
 
First, cooperative implementation of the Ethnic Chapter. We are pleased to hear that the related entities and local communities from Quibdo, Choco took action to identify their bottlenecks and priorities to accelerate its implementation. I hope that the UNVMC will further support such initiatives throughout its local offices.
 
Second, sustainable reintegration. Japan welcomes the formal adoption of the National Reintegration System and Comprehensive Reintegration Programme. Such efforts can become sustainable with threats removed and security ensured. Thus, it is important for Colombia to comprehend, analyze and leverage the dynamics of ongoing violence between and amongst armed groups through contributions by local, regional, and international actors, including the UNVMC. Defining the judicial situation is also crucial. We look forward to the first sentences of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace being issued and recall the role of the Government in establishing the conditions for the implementation of these sentences.  
 
Third, consolidating and building upon the progress made in the peace negotiations with the armed groups initiated by President Petro under the “Total Peace” initiative. I urge all parties to demonstrate their commitment to peace through concrete actions. We welcome the extension of the ceasefire agreement between the Government and the EMC, and hope for continuous dialogue between the Government and the ELN, as well as the temporary ceasefire between the Government and Segunda Marquetalia.
 
Madam President,
 
I appreciate the PBC’s written advice, that focuses on some points I mentioned. The Security Council can further utilize the PBC’s thematic expertise by way of advice, briefings, or meetings, as President Petro and his government have already done.
 
In conclusion, I assure Japan’s continuous commitment to deliver effective support for the people of Colombia.
 
I thank you.