Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMAZAKI Kazuyuki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Informal Meeting of the General Assembly on the Intergovernmental Negotiations on Security Council Reform

Thank you, Co-Chairs.
 
Japan fully aligns with India’s statement on behalf of the G4. I will make additional remarks in my national capacity.
 
Japan once again welcomes the reappointment of both Co-Chairs, Axel and Tareq, and you can count on our support.
 
This 79th session is of particular significance in the context of Security Council reform. We have collectively produced a tangible outcome – the Pact for the Future is the first ever concrete document for Council reform over the years, and includes many important actions to be taken, such as: 

• First: working towards developing a consolidated model through structured dialogue;
• Second: highlighting the importance of limiting the scope and use of the veto, especially in cases of preventing or ending genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes;
• Third: recognizing the historical injustice against Africa as well as the underrepresentation of Asia-Pacific; and
• Fourth: looking towards 2030 as a timeline to enlarge the Council to be more representative.

While this is a great achievement, what is more important is how to advance negotiations building on this step in this session. The IGN is the primary place to do so.
 
Co-Chairs,
 
Regarding today’s topic of “categories of membership,” as written in the Pact, we the Member States need to “intensify efforts to find an agreement” on this issue, “taking into account the discussions held in the IGN process.” These discussions have clearly shown majority support for the expansion in both categories as demonstrated in the models presented, the 2015 Framework Document, and countless statements made by Member States and groups. We strongly urge the Co-Chairs to facilitate a fair discussion based on the facts and the accurate positions of the Member States.
 
Regarding the other topic, “cross-regional representation,” Japan believes that Member States should give due consideration to ensuring better representation for small and medium size Member States, including SIDS. At the same time, issues such as the definition or appropriate scope and membership of each cross-regional group, and how to deal with the overlap between regional and cross-regional groups, require further discussion. We are more than willing to engage on these matters.
 
Co-Chairs,
 
Let us remind ourselves that an unprecedented number of Member States made statements calling for Security Council reform during the High-level Week in September. A growing sense of urgency for a more representative, efficient, and effective Council has never been clearer.
 
To achieve substantial progress towards text-based negotiations, we are eager to see the submission of more models, especially from Africa, so as to forge a consolidated model in the current IGN cycle.
 
At this critical juncture for international peace and security, we must reform the Council so it can better address the serious challenges we face.
 
Japan looks forward to a fruitful discussion with you.
 
I thank you.