「核兵器の全面的廃絶の国際の日」国連総会ハイレベル会合における山﨑大使ステートメント

Thank you, Mr. President, for convening us on this important day to commemorate and promote the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.

Ever since the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the path toward nuclear disarmament has remained challenging. 
 
Precisely because we find ourselves in such a difficult environment, we must have the determination to engage in sincere dialogue, build mutual trust, and seek common ground.
 
Mr. President,
 
Japan’s commitment is reflected in three areas of action.

First, we must maintain and strengthen the framework for dialogue and cooperation.

At the 11^th NPT Review Conference held this year, we were able to reaffirm the fundamental importance of the NPT as the cornerstone of the international nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime.

Japan will continue to work with all States Parties to fortify the NPT regime and to identify areas of common ground.

Second, we must build political momentum for concrete measures, in a realistic and practical manner.

Last week, Foreign Minister of Japan, Toshimitsu MOTEGI, co-hosted the 12^th Ministerial Meeting of the Friends of the CTBT. The meeting demonstrated our collective commitment to the CTBT and generated political momentum toward its early entry into force.

Japan will continue to pursue such efforts to build momentum for further progress.

Third, we must pass the lessons of the past on to the next generation.

Japan’s commitment to a world without nuclear weapons is rooted in the experience of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and in the testimonies of the hibakusha. As the only country to have ever suffered atomic bombings during war, Japan has a responsibility to ensure that these lessons are passed on to future generations.
 
Japan will continue to expand opportunities for young leaders to engage in disarmament efforts, including through the Youth Leader Fund and the UN Disarmament Fellowship Programme.

Mr. President,

The road toward a world without nuclear weapons will not be easy, but we must continue to move forward, step by step.
 
I thank you.