ハイチの平和構築と持続的な平和に関する経済社会理事会・平和構築委員会の合同会合における御巫大使ステートメント

Thank you Chair.
 
Japan welcomes the remarks by H.E. Mr. Rae, H. E. Mr. Yang, and H.E Ms. Rodrigues-Birkett, and also thanks the panelists for their insights.
 
Let me first begin by commending the President of ECOSOC and the Chair of the PBC for taking the initiative to convene this meeting. As Haiti continues to face complex and multiplying challenges, it is an opportune time for these two bodies to jointly explore ways forward with a comprehensive view of the country’s peacebuilding and sustainable development needs.
 
Today, I would like to highlight three points.
 
First is the centrality of the rule of law. The deterioration of security and justice institutions has fostered widespread impunity, provided space for illicit arms trafficking, and led to the rise of vigilante actions. Efforts to strengthen the rule of law are critical in building a secure society that can allow for sustainable development. In this regard, Japan, in close coordination with the UN, has for many years been assisting the Haitian National Police through providing equipment, vehicles, and facilities to enhance their capabilities. We also appreciate the Peacebuilding Fund’s programs that aim to build the capacity of judicial and security institutions in Haiti.
 
Second, it is essential to adopt an HDP nexus approach in our cooperation with Haiti. As an example, Japan, together with WFP, is helping Haitian schools to provide lunches to students using local produce. This initiative combats child malnutrition and provides incentives for improved school attendance which, in turn, contributes to preventing child recruitment by armed groups. This project also aims to generate additional earnings for local farmers.  Projects leading to income generation should be prioritized for achieving sustained peace and development.
 
Third, securing full, meaningful, and effective participation of all sectors of society is crucial in bolstering societal resilience and ensuring legitimacy. Japan welcomes that the Rapid Crisis Impact Assessment by the Haitian Government was conducted in an inclusive manner and emphasizes the importance of its implementation in consultation with all sectors of society, including women and youth. To this end, Japan has been providing support to empower people in marginalized situations, including through vocational training and the promotion of community engagement for women who have experienced gender-based violence.
 
To conclude, Japan remains committed to supporting Haiti as it seeks to restore security and advance sustaining peace.
 
I thank you.