Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMANAKA Osamu, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the UNDP Segment Interactive Dialogue with the UNDP Administrator, UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS Executive Board

Thank you, Mr. President.
 
I would like to start by showing our appreciation for the informative and insightful statement by Mr. Steiner, which included concrete initiatives, including catalyzing SDGs financing, scaling up climate action, and advancing development in crisis, where UNDP holds strength.
 
My thanks also goes to Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, Regional Director for Africa, for her attendance and significant contribution at the TICAD9 Ministerial Meeting this weekend. I also welcome the newly appointed Ms. Maguire, Director-General of BMS, and Ms. Muschett, acting Director of BERA.
 
In light of the Administrator's statement, I would like to make three points from our side.
 
Firstly, on the importance of public-private partnership, we would like to enhance collaboration with UNDP. Promotion of impact investment in the health sector, to which Japan attaches particular importance, is one of possible areas for our collaboration.
 
I would also like to express my gratitude for UNDP's great contribution to UN Volunteers. Japan and Brazil will submit a resolution to promote volunteerism this fall, which should further strengthen the UN Volunteers activities.
 
Thirdly, strengthening partnerships between program countries and donor countries is crucial. We hope to have substantial discussions here in the Executive Board in preparation for next Strategic Plan.
 
With Japan’s partnership with UNDP in mind, we will continue to make efforts to contribute financially, including through core funding, while positively considering portfolio approaches through the Funding Windows despite Japan's continuing difficult fiscal situation due to the weak Japanese Yen.
 
Before concluding, I would like to say a few words about human security, which Japan considers to be the cornerstone of its strategic relationship with UNDP.
 
Human security is a comprehensive and people-centered approach to building a resilient society, which was reinvigorated in UNDP’s 2022 Special Report. The community center development implemented by Japan and UNDP in South Sudan is a case in point as the project not only protects women from sexual and gender-based violence, but also enhances participation in economic activities and secure decent livelihoods.
 
This year marks the 70^th anniversary of Japan’s ODA and next year will mark the 60th anniversary of establishment of UNDP. I look forward to further developing our strategic relationship, under Mr. Administrator’s able leadership.
 
I thank you.