Statement by H.E. Ambassador SHINO Mitsuko, Deputy Permanent Representative and Chargé d'affaires ad interim of Japan to the United Nations, at General Assembly Informal Briefing on Haiti

Thank you, Mr. President.
 
I thank the Presidents of the General Assembly, ECOSOC, and the Security Council for their interventions today. I also thank Ms. Salvador for her remarks.
 
Today’s discussions/interventions have once again reminded us of the increasingly dire security and humanitarian situation in Haiti and the country’s strong need for international support.
 
An essential first step in responding to this crisis is to restore the capacities of its national security agencies, including the Haitian National Police (HNP). To that end, we are pleased that the Security Council authorized the deployment of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission. Japan welcomes Kenya’s willingness to lead the Mission and other countries’ offers to contribute and appreciates the ongoing preparation towards deployment. We reiterate our call on Member States to share their knowledge and expertise for the Mission to be best prepared.
 
Addressing security alone is not sufficient for Haiti’s long-term stability and development. It is vital to restore the rule of law and to establish and strengthen national institutions to be more resilient and democratic so that they can provide Haitians with basic services. In this way, the authorities can gain trust and legitimacy in the eyes of the population. It is also essential for Haitian stakeholders to make progress toward a national consensus on political, constitutional, and electoral reforms as well as Security Sector Reform (SSR) and institution building in the justice and corrections sectors.
 
To effectively support Haiti’s efforts, it is important that all relevant partners including regional organizations like the OAS and CARICOM, and the UN system, including BINUH and the Country Team, find synergies amongst each other and avoid duplication in order to maximize the impact of their efforts.
 
Japan, on its part, has stood with the people and Government of Haiti through their endeavors. In addition to our contribution to the UN basket fund in support of the HNP, Japan recently decided to provide further assistance of approximately USD 14 million with a view to support the activities of the MSS Mission, notably though capacity-building for the HNP and its academy. Our contribution also includes components to improve conditions at the juvenile reformatory and facilitate the Haitian national ID registration process to assist in preparing for elections and providing social services.
 
Let us all work together to support Haiti in achieving long-term security and stability.
 
I thank you, Mr. President.