安保理改革に関する政府間交渉（IGN）における御巫臨時代理大使のステートメント

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.
 
As has been repeatedly stated, reforming the Security Council is urgently needed to restore trust in the UN as the center of multilateralism. At the same time, the reformed Security Council must evolve into a more legitimate, representative and effective body capable of addressing the growing perception by the wider public that the Council, a symbol of the UN, has been unable to fulfill its primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security.
 
In this regard, Japan reiterates that expanding both permanent and non-permanent categories is essential. An expansion only of the non-permanent category, including the addition of longer-term non-permanent seats or so-called Fixed Regional Seats, can neither resolve the existing imbalance of the Council nor lead to realizing a Council which can respond effectively to the challenges the UN is facing and discharge its mandate under the UN Charter. Furthermore, it is only the expansion in both categories that will make the Council truly more democratic and accountable. This could also increase the chances of seriously exploring newer approaches to the veto, which is of great concern to the wider public.
 
As we move forward with the development of a consolidated model, Japan reiterates that the fact that a majority of Member States support the expansion of both categories must be reflected in the model in a balanced and equitable manner.
 
Japan would also like to underscore that the issue of improving the representation of the underrepresented and unrepresented regions must be addressed. In particular, from the perspective of the Asia-Pacific region, it should be highlighted that its representation on the Council remains limited to just one permanent seat and two non-permanent seats—a mere one-fifth of the total, although the Asia-Pacific Group comprises 54 UN Member States and accounts for more than half of the world’s population.
 
Co-Chairs,
 
It is regrettable that some delegation made groundless statement against Japan. With remorse for its past, Japan has consistently followed the path of a peace-loving nation and made innumerable contribution to the peace and prosperity of the international community since the end of World War II. Having served as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 12th time until the end of 2024, Japan will continue such contributions as a responsible member state of the United Nations. With regard to the statement regarding Japan’s position on history, I will refrain from refuting each one individually. The current administration has upheld in its entirety the positions of the previous Cabinets on history and will continue to do so.
 
In conclusion, Japan reiterates its commitment to continue to contribute constructively towards developing a consolidated model.
 
I thank you.