Statement by H. E. Ambassador Koro Bessho
Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations
Statement after the Vote (UNMISS)
12 August 2016
Thank you, Mr. President.
First of all, I would like to thank the United States for showing strong leadership in preparing this resolution. Japan supported Resolution 2304 with strong belief that action is urgently needed after the shocking fighting in Juba last month, and strengthening UNMISS is the most effective response to address the situation.
Taking this opportunity, I would like to emphasize three points. Firstly, this resolution establishes a Regional Protection Force within UNMISS. Japan, as a Troop Contributing Country to UNMISS, appreciates the willingness and preparedness expressed by countries in the region to deploy personnel. Japan believes that this new Force will contribute significantly to South Sudan’s stability. Needless to say, the basic principles of peacekeeping including consent of the parties must be observed and maintained. For the smooth deployment of this Force and for the Force to be effective, close coordination and consultation among the Transitional Government of National Unity of South Sudan, countries in the region and the United Nations should continue. We must also emphasize that hostile acts, threats, and harassment towards UNMISS personnel, including obstruction of their freedom of movement, are unacceptable. UNMISS personnel are on the ground in order to restore peace and stability for the people of South Sudan. The Security Council should closely monitor the situation and remain committed to ensuring the stability on the ground.
Secondly, the implementation of the August 2015 Agreement is vital to achieve lasting peace and sustainable development of South Sudan. Japan continues to urge political leaders and uniformed forces of South Sudan to fully abide by the ceasefire and cessation of hostilities, and to seriously work on the implementation of the Agreement. In this regard, Japan commends the efforts made by the SRSG, the JMEC, the AU and IGAD, and hopes to see further efforts to this end.
Finally, I wish to return to the reason we are all gathered here today: our commitment to the people of South Sudan. Five years ago, this Council witnessed the birth of South Sudan as the world’s newest country. Sadly, there was no room to celebrate during this year’s independence day. We must help South Sudan achieve its promise by standing by the country when it needs us the most. It is Japan’s sincere hope for South Sudan to achieve peace and stability, and to make great strides on the path of development. Japan has supported South Sudan since its independence and pledges to continue to be a partner in its development and reconciliation, as a true friend to its people. We must all work together to ensure that by this time next year, we are able to celebrate progress and stability in South Sudan on the occasion of its sixth anniversary.
I thank you, Mr. President.
