"The World and Japan" Database (Project Leader: TANAKA Akihiko)
Database of Japanese Politics and International Relations
National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS); Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia (IASA), The University of Tokyo

[Title] Statement by Mr. Katsuya Okada, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the Issuance of the Statement of the President of the United Nations Security Council concerning the sinking of a military patrol vessel

[Place]
[Date] July 9, 2010
[Source] Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
[Notes]
[Full text]

1. I welcome that on the morning of June 9th (Fri.) (New York time, Japan time: late evening, June 9th (Fri.)), the United Nations Security Council issued the Statement of its President concerning the sinking of a military patrol vessel.

2. In this statement, the Security Council expresses its deep concern in view of the findings of the Joint Civilian-Military Investigation Group which concluded that North Korea was responsible for sinking the Cheonan, condemns the attack which led to the sinking, and underscores the importance of preventing further such attacks or hostilities. Thus, this statement is a clear message of the international community against the attack by North Korea.

3. Since North Korea’s attack on the Republic of Korea (ROK)’s military patrol ship cannot be condoned by any means from the viewpoint of regional and international peace and stability, and as Japan strongly supports the ROK, we made diplomatic efforts at all levels to have the Security Council send a clear message.

4. Japan strongly urges North Korea to listen seriously to this concerted message of the international community and to refrain from taking action that would negatively affect the situation. Japan will continue its close coordination and cooperation with the countries concerned, including the ROK and the United States.

(END)