Opening Remarks by Ambassador Motohide Yoshikawa

Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations

On the Occasion of the Concert

Commemorating the 60th anniversary of Japan’s membership in the United Nations

1 April 2016

 

 

 

Fellow Ambassadors,

Senior members of the UN Secretariat,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

皆様、本日は、日本の国連加盟60周年記念コンサートにお越し頂きありがとうございます。

 

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to you for attending the Concert commemorating the 60th anniversary of Japan’s accession to the United Nations.

 

It is my honor to host the concert together with the office of today’s pianist, Ms. Fuzjko Hemming.

 

Let me recall Japan’s accession to the United Nations, which took place sixty years ago on the 18th of December, 1956.

 

After the Second World War, Japan pledged never to engage in a war and promised to contribute to the international peace and development.

 

Therefore, to become a Member of the United Nations and to be recognized as a “peace-loving state” was a national goal for Japan.

 

When the news of the admission reached us, entire Japan was jubilant.

 

Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu, who addressed the UN General Assembly on the day of accession, called it the best day of his life.

 

I wish to reiterate our appreciation for the strong support which Japan received from Member Countries for our accession.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

Since becoming a Member of the United Nations, Japan has made assiduous efforts to contribute to the peace and prosperity of the world through our activities of the United Nations, namely, the maintenance of peace and security, the enhancement of development, and the protection of human rights.

 

It is proof that Japan has walked together with the United Nations.

Today, on behalf of the Japanese Government, I wish to renew Japan’s continued commitment to the ideals and objectives of the United Nations.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

Today’s concert will feature two renowned artists, Ms. Ingrid Fuzjko Hemming and Ms. Mariko Anraku.

 

Ms. Fuzjko Hemming was born to a Swedish father and a Japanese mother.

 

Despite her hearing difficulties, which she suffered during her career as a distinguished pianist, she has continued to play the piano.

 

Tunes she will play today should be familiar to you, but you will surely feel the spirit of Fuzjko Hemming in them.

 

The harpist, Ms. Mariko Anraku was born in Japan and has long held the position of Associate Principal Harpist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra of New York.

 

She also plays as a soloist and a chamber musician.

 

Let me thank the two artists for coming tonight to perform at the United Nations.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

Please enjoy the evening.

 

I thank you.