Statement by H.E. Mr. Hiroshi Minami
Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations
At the Second Thematic Meeting of the Ad Hoc Working Group of the
Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly
28 March 2017
Thank you, Co-Chairs,
The improvement of working methods is an essential element in the context of the revitalization of the work of the General Assembly. Japan believes that concrete results should be achieved on this cluster. We have to continue to consider and implement how to improve our working methods, so that the GA can function in an effective and efficient manner. From that perspective, let me take up several specific points.
First, the rationalization of the GA's work is an urgent challenge. In this regard, the biennialization or triennialization of agendas is a change to be made that we have advocated for a number of years. With regard to 2030 Agenda, a consultation on alignment, led by Australia and Argentina, is currently under progress. Japan will actively contribute to the discussions in this process. I believe that breaking the silo approach, including through rationalizing the GA’s work and emphasizing implementation on the ground, are key factors to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.
Second, I would like to stress the disciplined proceedings of the meetings and the timely documentation by the Secretariat. In this connection, PGA Thomson conducts time management of the plenary meetings in a skillful and stringent manner. My delegation fully supports such initiative, and this should be applied to every meeting in the United Nations. In addition, we the Member states should exercise self-restraint on the length of statements and adhere to the time slot allocated by the President or the Chair. On the timely documentation, we regret that the 5th Committee’s proceedings were delayed last year due to the delay of the documentation. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed, especially by strict adherence to all established practices including established deadline by all concerned parties.
Third, the timing of the election of the President of the General Assembly is also an important theme to discuss. Given the crucial role played by the PGA, securing the smooth transition between the incumbent and incoming PGAs is critical. This is not only in their interest but also in the interest of the entire UN membership.
Currently, according to the rules of procedure, the GA shall elect the PGA at least three months before the opening of the session, namely in June. However, it is worth considering the possibility of moving this election to an earlier date, so that the President-elect of the General Assembly will be afforded sufficient time to set up his or her team and prepare for the handover.
Fourth, enhancing fairness in the proceedings of the UN meetings needs to be discussed. We have argued for several years that the speakers list during the high-level week should more closely reflect current realities. Countries like Japan, in which the Head of State plays a ceremonial or symbolic role and the Head of Government has the highest political mandate, should be dealt with accordingly.
Fifth, with regard to the publication of the Journal of the United Nations, my delegation listened carefully to the presentation made by USG Pollard, and we truly appreciate the diligent work of her team. My delegation would like to highlight the need for maintaining the budgetary discipline in the management of the United Nations. My delegation is ready to discuss this topic and to cooperate with other Member states as to how to move forward in a constructive manner.
Co-chairs,
In conclusion, tackling the issue of the improvement of the working methods of the GA is essential, so that the GA can remain effective and efficient in the implementation of its mandates. I look forward to working closely with the co-chairs and with all Member States.
I thank you, Co-Chairs.
