(as delivered)
Statement by H.E. Ambassador Motohide Yoshikawa
Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations
at the Briefing of the United Nations Security Council
on the Situation in Aleppo, Syria
4 May 2016
Mr. President,
I thank you for convening this meeting on Aleppo. I would also like to extend my appreciation to Under Secretaries-General Feltman and O’Brien for their detailed briefings.
It was almost two months ago when we adopted unanimously the Resolution 2268, endorsing in full US-Russia Joint Statement on the Cessation of Hostilities in Syria. After the adoption of this resolution, we saw remarkable development in the Syria political process, and considerable improvement in humanitarian access. Since the crisis is far from coming to an end, we cannot be satisfied with these temporary achievements. At the same time, we should admit that the cessation of hostilities gave hope to Syrian people.
Now, such hope is being lost in Syria, especially in Aleppo, an important cultural heritage of the Middle East. We see an escalation of violence and fighting in Aleppo.
In this context, we welcome the latest news of US-Russian agreement toward extending the cessation of hostilities to Aleppo. We hope this welcoming effort will be implemented.
Mr. President,
Japan strongly urges all parties to fully implement Resolutions 2254 and 2268.
Yesterday, the Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2286 that addresses the protection of medical personnel and facilities. This resolution does not focus on any specific conflict area. However, Syria, in particular Aleppo, is a typical situation that this resolution envisages.
For the implementation of Resolution 2286 in Aleppo, the role of States with influence on the ground is critical. Japan urges all States, in particular the Syrian Arabic Republic and the member States of the ISSG, to thoroughly implement this resolution.
A word on the British draft of press statement, which was circulated now. I support the idea to send a clear message of the Council. The draft seems to capture all important points.
Mr. President,
I wish to conclude by stating that Japan will continue to work with members of this Council and the ISSG for a lasting political settlement through assistance that gives hope to Syria’s future.
I thank you, Mr. President.
