(as delivered)

  

Statement by H.E. Mr. Motohide Yoshikawa

Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations

at the Adoption of Security Council Resolution 2268

26 February 2016

 

Señor Presidente,

Mr. Staffan de Mistura

 

It is 00 hours 27th February of Damascus time.

 

Today, by adopting unanimously the new Resolution 2268, we endorsed in full the Joint Statement on the Cessation of Hostilities in Syria, announced on 22nd February by the United States and the Russian Federation.

 

I welcome efforts by Secretary Kerry and Minister Lavrov, co-chairs of the ISSG, who opened an opportunity to end this long-lasting conflict.

 

The Resolution 2268 was co-sponsored by the Russian Federation and the United States, which I find most welcoming.

 

The adoption and the implementation of the Resolution 2268 we just adopted should lead to the full implementation of the most important Resolution 2254.

 

It is my hope that the Russian-US cooperation as well as cooperation among all the partners will continue to be strengthened in the process of the implementation of the Resolutions 2254 and 2268.

 

Mr. President,

 

Now, I want to thank Mr. de Mistura for his briefing and, most importantly, his tireless efforts to move the political process forward.

 

Japan welcomes the announcement of the scheduled resumption of Intra-Syrian Talks on 7th March.

 

As the Special Envoy said, the start and the maintenance of the cessation of hostilities as well as the improvement of dire humanitarian situation are indispensable elements for the success of Intra-Syrian Talks.

 

Mr. President,

 

Japan has provided continuous assistance to Syria for the development of its economy and improvements in the livelihood of the people.

 

It is always a matter of the highest priority for Japan that the people of Syria are able to enjoy better lives.

 

However, since the crisis begun, more than a quarter of a million Syrians were killed and 4.6 million Syrians fled their country.

 

Japan will continue to work with others to a lasting political settlement by restoring confidence among parties, through assistance that benefits all Syrians without marginalizing any groups.

 

Le agradezco, Señor Presidente.