Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMAZAKI Kazuyuki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Ambassadorial-Level Meeting of Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) on São Tomé and Príncipe
2026/6/12

(As delivered)
Thank you, Chair, for convening this important meeting.
I welcome the presence of and the statement by Hon. Vera Maria Assunção Gomes Cravid, Minister of Justice, Parliamentary Affairs and Women Rights of São Tomé and Príncipe, and also thank all briefers for their valuable insights.
Chair,
Japan commends the Government of São Tomé and Príncipe for its steadfast commitment to conflict prevention and security sector reform. In particular, the forthcoming law establishing an independent National Human Rights Commission, as well as draft legislation to advance access to justice and strengthen maritime security, demonstrate the Government's determination to translate its commitments into action.
Japan has consistently supported capacity building and institution building as essential foundations for sustaining peace and the advancement of human security. Addressing fragility requires building institutions that are effective, accountable and trusted by the people they serve. São Tomé and Príncipe's Conflict Prevention Strategy reflects this approach, with its focus on addressing structural drivers of fragility and strengthening public confidence in State institutions. In this regard, the upcoming presidential and legislative elections represent a particularly important opportunity, and it is essential that they be conducted in an inclusive, transparent, and credible manner. To support the endeavour, Japan recently announced electoral assistance through UNDP aimed at creating a more inclusive and transparent electoral environment where all citizens, including women, youth and persons with disabilities, can meaningfully participate.
Chair,
São Tomé and Príncipe has shown clear commitment by proactively and continuously engaging the Peacebuilding Commission and the Peacebuilding Fund in support of its national efforts. It is therefore important that the PBC continue to accompany and support these efforts, thereby demonstrating the relevance of the Commission as a platform for prevention, partnership and sustained international attention.
To conclude, and as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, Japan remains firmly committed to supporting São Tomé and Príncipe on its path toward sustaining peace and democracy.
I thank you.
I welcome the presence of and the statement by Hon. Vera Maria Assunção Gomes Cravid, Minister of Justice, Parliamentary Affairs and Women Rights of São Tomé and Príncipe, and also thank all briefers for their valuable insights.
Chair,
Japan commends the Government of São Tomé and Príncipe for its steadfast commitment to conflict prevention and security sector reform. In particular, the forthcoming law establishing an independent National Human Rights Commission, as well as draft legislation to advance access to justice and strengthen maritime security, demonstrate the Government's determination to translate its commitments into action.
Japan has consistently supported capacity building and institution building as essential foundations for sustaining peace and the advancement of human security. Addressing fragility requires building institutions that are effective, accountable and trusted by the people they serve. São Tomé and Príncipe's Conflict Prevention Strategy reflects this approach, with its focus on addressing structural drivers of fragility and strengthening public confidence in State institutions. In this regard, the upcoming presidential and legislative elections represent a particularly important opportunity, and it is essential that they be conducted in an inclusive, transparent, and credible manner. To support the endeavour, Japan recently announced electoral assistance through UNDP aimed at creating a more inclusive and transparent electoral environment where all citizens, including women, youth and persons with disabilities, can meaningfully participate.
Chair,
São Tomé and Príncipe has shown clear commitment by proactively and continuously engaging the Peacebuilding Commission and the Peacebuilding Fund in support of its national efforts. It is therefore important that the PBC continue to accompany and support these efforts, thereby demonstrating the relevance of the Commission as a platform for prevention, partnership and sustained international attention.
To conclude, and as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, Japan remains firmly committed to supporting São Tomé and Príncipe on its path toward sustaining peace and democracy.
I thank you.