Statement by H.E. Ambassador Yasuhisa Kawamura
Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations
At the Debate of the United Nations Security Council
On the Question Concerning Haiti
11 April 2017
Thank you, Madam President,
I would like to offer Japan's deep condolences to the families of the victims of the terrorist attacks in Egypt on Sunday. We join our colleagues in condemning these despicable acts, and in expressing our solidarity with the people and the Government of Egypt.
I would like to thank Ms. Sandra Honoré, Special Representative of the Secretary-General, for a highly informative briefing. As the conclusion of MINUSTAH’s mandate approaches after 13 years, Japan reiterates its appreciation for the dedication and accomplishments of the SRSG and the Mission in support of a more stable, prosperous future for the Haitian people. Japan is proud to have contributed to MINUSTAH by dispatching approximately 2,200 Self-Defense Force personnel for post-earthquake reconstruction. We pay tribute to the brave men and women from all troop- and police-contributing countries for their efforts.
Madam President,
Japan has followed the Haitian elections and political process with great interest, and at times with concern. We are pleased that elections have finally been held successfully, despite the impact of Hurricane Matthew, and commend Haiti’s ownership of this process. This election is a milestone for Haiti’s strengthened democracy and its return to constitutional order.
Now is the time for Haiti to build on this political progress to create more effective and accountable rule of law and justice institutions. We are pleased by the Haitian National Police’s increased capacity to provide security independently from MINUSTAH. But the police is only a single component of the justice sector and the penal chain. Haiti’s justice sector overall demands further reform, carefully balancing capacity development with enhanced civilian oversight.
Madam President,
Japan greatly appreciates the work of the recent strategic assessment mission as we consider the shape of future UN involvement in Haiti. We support its recommendations, including on the importance of enhanced police capacity. We must support Haiti now to ensure its self-reliance in the future. It is Haiti’s progress and MINUSTAH’s success that have allowed the Council to transition to a smaller new UN mission. We underline the need for a clear, highly focused mandate to consolidate gains through justice support, including by strengthening the rule of law.
Madam President,
Haiti has made commendable progress in highly challenging conditions. But the road ahead is still long. Japan is committed to its continued support for Haiti’s development, including improving basic social services, supporting post-disaster reconstruction, and fighting cholera. We look forward to working with the international community to ensure that recent improvements provide a lasting foundation for Haiti’s future.
I thank you, Madam President.
