新型コロナウイルスの中央アフリカ共和国への影響に関する平和構築委員会（PBC）中央アフリカ共和国国別会合における石兼大使ステートメント
令和2年5月7日
(As delivered)
Thank you Mr. Chairperson,While the number of infected persons in CAR is relatively small, we should not underestimate the risk of the virus. That could cause a serious human security crisis in places where the health system is extremely fragile. In this regard, we are highly appreciative of the efforts being made by the CAR government, MINUSCA, and other actors in the world. Japan is now considering support to CAR in its fight against COVID-19 through UN agency on the ground. We will be able to make announce soon.
There is no doubt that the elections of 2020-2021 are crucial for building peace and stability in the country. We hope that COVID-19 will not hamper those elections, and that they will be held in an inclusive, transparent and peaceful manner. We commend the efforts of the CAR government and MINUSCA. Japan shares the concerns over the lack of funding for these elections and is seriously considering contributing through UNDP.
We are concerned that the security situation in CAR remains fragile. We need to rally around the Secretary-General’s appeal for an immediate global ceasefire.
We are concerned also that political tensions are rising as 14 armed groups have recently announced the intention to temporarily suspend their participation in the regime. All participants should commit to the implementation of the Political Accord for Peace and Reconciliation.
In CAR, Japan is financially supporting the peace process under the African initiative through the AU Peace Fund. We also provide assistance for the training of female police officers in cooperation with UNDP. Japan supports judicial and security authorities to build capacity for the investigation and prosecution of sexual violence. We will continue to support institution building efforts, which is indispensable for the robust and legitimate state authority to prevail.
Facing the risk of COVID-19, we need exceptional solidarity at all levels and work together.
First step towards harmonized assistance is to identify what is actually needed on the ground and put all ongoing and planned multilateral and bilateral assistance on the table as a kind of assistance mapping for information sharing. Allow me to share one good example of multi-partner collaboration in CAR.
In partnership with UNDP, Japan contributed to the establishment of cultural center in Bangui, which serves as the venue for the reconciliation between the youths from two neighborhoods that experienced violent inter-communal clashes. PBF contributed to building this center and the UN Trust Fund for Human Security assisted to procure necessary equipment. Japan continues to provide assistance for vocational training programs conducted at the center.