"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] Mr. Nobutaka Machimura, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, at the Summit Meeting of the Security Council

[Place] Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, New York
[Date] September 14, 2005
[Source] Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
[Notes]
[Full text]

Madam President,

In the fight against terrorism, there are three important areas in which the international community must intensify its efforts.

First, priority must be placed on the strengthening of measures to prevent terrorist acts. For its part, Japan adopted the Action Plan for Prevention of Terrorism last December and is in the process of reviewing both its legal institutions and government practices.

Second, it is important to enhance international legal frameworks, as well as to improve our domestic legal system. Tomorrow, Prime Minister Koizumi will sign the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism here at the United Nations.

I call upon all Member States to show their utmost flexibility so as to ensure early conclusion of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

Third, we must increase assistance for capacity - building against terrorism.

I believe the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, has the capacity to play a greater role in each of these areas, as exemplified by the resolution adopted today.

Madam President,

Resolving the conflicts in Africa is a global challenge. In this regard, Japan welcomes the establishment of a proposed Peacebuilding Commission. We hope that the Commission will be able to play an invaluable role in ensuring seamless assistance in post-conflict situations. Japan completely concurs in the importance of having a comprehensive, all-inclusive strategy, as stressed in today's Council resolution.

I would also like to stress the importance of the concept of human security, which Japan has been advocating for some time. The perspective of human security, which focuses on fully developing human potential of individuals and local communities, is indispensable, as an integral part of the needed comprehensive strategy. Moreover, human security is an important guiding principle in transitional situations.

Let me also take this occasion to formally announce that Japan will hold the TICAD international conference on issues arising in post-conflict situations in Africa soon. I am sure that the conference will contribute to enhanced discussions on ensuring smooth transition from post-conflict to reconstruction and development.

Madam President,

In addressing such global challenges as anti-terrorism and conflict prevention in Africa, the Security Council must play a key role. To that end, the Council needs to be reformed so that it can reflect today's reality. I would like to conclude my remarks by stressing that Japan will continue to make its utmost efforts to realize Security Council Reform.

Thank you very much.