[Title] 2nd International Symposium on the Law of the Sea "International Law for the Resources of the Sea: Scientific Advances, Preservation of Environment, Equity in Benefit Sharing" Remarks by Mr. Fumio Kishida, Minister for Foreign Affairs

Thank you very much for your participation in the 2nd International Symposium on the Law of the Sea. I also extend my deep appreciation to the key note speaker, as well as the coordinators and panelists.

For Japan, enhancing the "rule of law" with in the international community is one of the pillars of our foreign policy. On various occasions, we have

made our case on the importance of resolving disputes not by force or coercion, but by peaceful means based on law.

This year will mark the 20th anniversary since the establishment of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea(ITLOS). Japan has, and will continue to, contribute to the promotion of the "rule of law at sea" through our cooperation with the ITLOS, both in terms of human resources and finance.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in resource development at sea, or the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity within the areas beyond national jurisdiction.

I am aware that such issues will be discussed in this Symposium.

Japan takes on the presidency of the G7 this year. Japan is committed to furthering our robust efforts to promote the "rule of law at sea,"and to sustain and develop an "open and stable sea."

My hope is that everyone gathered heretoday will engage in vibrant and insightful discussions again tomorrow, towards strengthening the "rule of law at sea."

I would like to propose a toast. Please join me. Cheers.