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Statement by Mr. Takeshi Akamatsu
Minister, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations

 

Agenda item 134: Improving the financial situation of the United Nations
Second Resumed Part of the Sixty-Ninth Session, Fifth Committee of the General Assembly

14 May 2015

 

Mr. Chairman,

 

     At the outset, I would like to thank Mr. Yukio Takasu, Under-Secretary-General for Management, for providing update on the financial situation of the United Nations including today’s additional information.

 

     Notwithstanding the fact that Japan’s budget cycle is different from that of the United Nations, my delegation is especially proud to note that, as Mr. Takasu mentioned in his presentation last week, Japan has paid in full all assessments for the Regular Budget, Peacekeeping Operations, the International Tribunals and the Capital Master Plan that are due and payable.  We made all those payments in a timely manner because we recognize that it is a responsibility for Member States to pay their assessments in full and on time.  Japan has once again discharged its international commitment to contribute to international peace and prosperity, in spite of the long-standing domestic financial difficulties and the recent trend of exchange rates.

 

     My delegation notes with appreciation of Secretariat’s great efforts to utilize resource in efficient and effective manner.  As the Under-Secretary-General mentioned, we would expect the Secretariat to closely monitor the cash position of regular budget and to inform the General Assembly appropriately.

 

Mr. Chairman,

 

     My delegation would like to reiterate its request to the Secretariat that the resources contributed by Member States continue to be utilized in the most efficient and effective manner when implementing mandates.  In doing so, the Secretariat can also draw on the continuing efforts and experience that the Member States are undertaking in their own countries.  The General Assembly should try to aim for a reasonable and practical solution when discussing the various budget proposals. 

 

     I thank you, Mr. Chairman.