安保理決議第1540号に関する委員会による加盟国、国際機関、地域機関及び準地域機関に対する公開ブリーフィングにおける梅津大使ステートメント

Mr. Chair,
 
At the outset, I would like to express my gratitude to the Chair and the Committee for organizing this meaningful open briefing to allow for interactive engagement among Member States and relevant organizations.  

Twenty years after its adoption, resolution 1540 and this Committee’s role in preventing the proliferation of WMDs and their means of delivery remain critical.
 
We commend the Committee’s continued work to promote the implementation of the resolution by Member States, as evident in its more than 20 outreach activities this year. Japan also welcomes the recent adoption of the Voluntary Technical Reference Guide, which we believe contributes to the further strengthening of implementation across many regions.
 
In these undertakings, we cannot overemphasize the importance of the active contribution by the Group of Experts. In this context, it is regrettable that we have seen no progress in terms of selection of experts to fill the remaining vacancies even though Japan nominated two strong candidates last year. We hope to see the Group of Experts fully constituted as early as possible and we believe our candidates would definitely add further value to the Committee with their rich practical experiences and professional skills and expertise.
 
Mr. Chair,
 
Japan has faithfully implemented resolution 1540 by enacting and enforcing relevant domestic laws and regulations while providing assistance to the Member States in need.
 
This year, we contributed additional funding of 720,000 USD to the UNODA Trust Fund to support the efforts of the Committee and the UN, including the Regional Coordinator for Asia. This Trust Fund is meaningful in assisting Member States to develop national action plans and prepare national reports. It also helps organizing workshops and seminars to raise awareness, share best practices and enhance cooperation among States. Taking this opportunity, Japan expresses its appreciation to Ms. Amanda Cowl, for her dedicated work to support countries in Asia and the Pacific.

Furthermore, Japan organized the 31^st Asian Export Control Seminar in February this year with nearly 170 participants from more than 30 countries and regions as well as six relevant organizations. The Seminar raised participants’ awareness and enhanced their capacity to conduct appropriate export control measures.
 
Mr. Chair,
 
In conclusion, let me reiterate Japan’s firm commitment to enhance the implementation of resolution 1540.
 
I thank you.