平和構築委員会（PBC）ブルンジに関する大使級会合における小山書記官ステートメント
令和4年11月30日
Thank you, Madam Chair, for organizing this meeting and the same gratitude goes to all the briefers for their valuable inputs.
The Burundian government, as we all acknowledge, has made a significant stride in reforms across multiple sectors for the betterment of its people following the elections in 2020. It is also commendable that Burundi has been playing a crucial role within the regional efforts for the stability of the eastern DRC, and the wider Great Lakes region as the current chair of the East African Community (EAC).
The country is with high hope to consolidate hard-gained achievements, yet formidable challenges are rampant such as regional conflicts, food insecurity, energy shortages, as well as climate change and COVID19. Continued international cooperation is essential for much-awaited aspirations of socio-economic development of Burundian people. Aspiring to be a partner growing together with Africa, Japan has been taking a long-term, holistic approach to support Burundian efforts.
First, sound economic growth needs high-quality infrastructure base with a stronger connectivity, and updates of its main industry. Japan has been supporting renewal and expansion of Bujumbura Port which is expected to help boost development of the coastal area of Lake Tanganyika. Capacity development to increase agricultural productivity is another focus of Japan by sharing its experience including of rice production.
Second, access to reliable social service is a foundation of quality of life for a stable society, and it also helps build trust between the government and people. For instance, Japan has contributed to improving medical infrastructure by furnishing hospitals with medical equipment such as CT scans and X-rays.
Lastly, we must respond to urgent needs deriving from human security crises caused by regional and international conflicts as well as natural disasters. Recent grant aid of food and fuel is a part of such efforts of Japan to mitigate the suffering of vulnerable people.
Madam Chair, allow me to conclude by commending Switzerland’s long-term dedication to garner international support for Burundi in this configuration. Japan also remains committed to playing its part within such international efforts.
Thank you.