Statement by H.E. Mr. Eiji Yamamoto, Ambassador in charge of International Cooperation for Countering Terrorism and International Organized Crime, at UN High-level Conference of Heads of Counter-Terrorism Agencies of Member States

As the host of the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020, Japan is vigorously promoting counter-terrorism measures to ensure the safety of visitors from around the world. Let me highlight some of our efforts.
 
First, the exchange of information and collaboration by the international community is essential, and I wish to single out the implementation of UNSCR 2396, in particular utilizing Advance Passenger Information, Passenger Name Record and INTERPOL databases, as the priority for international cooperation.
 
Secondly, public-private partnerships are another important aspect. In particular, the safety of public transportation is important. To this end, we are engaging in vital cooperation with private operators to ensure safety in these public spaces.
 
Thirdly, Japan will continue to innovate new technologies in this area. One example is a patrol robot. The robot can sense and transmit visual and audio information to an analysis center in real time，allowing for early and automatic detection of potential threats.
 
While pursing these efforts, Japan will not compromise human rights including the freedom of expression.
 
We are committed to support other countries in their efforts to build capabilities in this area. For example, we have provided a biometric security system to a large stadium in Indonesia, and are planning a workshop to introduce the system for ASEAN officials this autumn.
 
Lastly, I wish to stress that Japan attaches high importance not only to traditional counter-terrorism measures but also to PVE measures that address root causes of terrorism. We believe that youth education, respect for diversity, tolerance for difference, and gender-respective measures including women’s participation would help mitigate violent extremism. A whole-of-society approach with civil society as well as community involvement is required.
 
I believe that further cooperation among the United Nations and Member States will contribute to preventing terrorism and violent extremism.
 
Thank you for your kind attention.