"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 Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan KAMIKAWA Yoko at the PREPARATORY MINISTERIAL MEETING FOR THE SUMMIT OF THE FUTURE

[Place]
[Date] September 21, 2023
[Source] Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
[Notes]
[Full text]

Mr. President,

This year, at the midpoint of the SDGs, we have gathered here in New York to confirm our will to achieve the SDGs.

Particularly, the lives and security of vulnerable people are under threat from multiple global challenges, such as COVID-19, armed conflicts, energy and food crises, and climate change.

Now we need to bolster multilateralism. For that end, Japan will proactively contribute to the Summit of the Future.

I would like to mention three points in relation to "Our Common Agenda".

First, the future generations.

The youths and future generations are main actors to shape the world. It is our duty to provide an environment that nurtures a generation with new values and lifestyles, who take the solution of global issues as their own challenge. In doing so, we should unite ourselves to protect and strengthen "human dignity".

Second, more robust multilateralism.

The UN General Assembly embodies multilateralism that prizes diversity. We need to continue our efforts to strengthen the General Assembly.

We should foster a broad partnership to expand both permanent and non-permanent seats on the Security Council to reflect the realities of today's world.

Japan will lead in curbing the use of the veto, improving access to the Security Council by non-

Council members, transparency.

and increasing its

Lastly, the rule of law.

Throughout my political career, I have stressed the importance of the rule of law.

The three pillars of the UN; peace and security, human rights, and development, can only be achieved if international law is respected.

Russia must withdraw its troops immediately and unconditionally from Ukraine, respecting the relevant General Assembly resolutions and observing the ICJ order on provisional measures.

In closing, I would like to stress that we can and should work together to safeguard "human dignity" for future generations.

Thank you

(300 words)