[Title] Remarks by Mr. Manabu Horii, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan at the Plenary 3 of theTICAD Ministerial Meeting in Maputo, Mozambique

The TICAD process is based on the belief that the people are the most precious blessing of the African continent. To achieve sustainable and inclusive development in Africa, we need to protect and empower its people. This concept of human security, a guiding principle of TICAD, is in perfect alignment with Africa's own aspiration for people-centered development.

In order to protect and empower each and every individual, Japan has been joining Africa's efforts to promote resilient health systems. In particular, we have provided training to those engaging in the treatment of infectious diseases to enhance the capacity to cope with public health emergencies.

In order to protect and empower each and every individual, Japan has been joining Africa's efforts to promote resilient health systems. In particular, we have provided training to those engaging in the treatment of infectious diseases to enhance the capacity to cope with public health emergencies.

Japan is also resolved to contribute to promoting universal health coverage (UHC) in Africa by spreading the initiatives of model countries to the entire African continent. On December 13 and 14 this year, UHC Forum will be held in Tokyo. I hope that the event will stimulate progress towardsUHC at global and country-levels.

Waste management is becoming a serious problem in Africa, due to rapid urbanization. I would like to ask my colleague, Mr. Arata Takebe, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for the Environment, to share the outcome of the side-event held yesterday on "African Clean Cities Platform" following my intervention.

I would also like to stress the importance of addressing the challenges related to environment and food security, which are the prerequisites for achieving social stability as well as sustainable and inclusive development. It is essential to support the African countries to enhance resilience against climate change and natural disasters. The environmental challenges are also linked to food security. Japan has been implementing agricultural projects on the African continent which not only provide farmers with rice cultivation technique but also empower them to disseminate and develop such technique by themselves.

Distinguished participants,

Peace and security contribute to social stability along with good governance, the rule of law and respect for human rights. Japan has contributed to laying the foundations for sound social development by providing assistance in the areas of education and vocational training for African youths. Japan has also been supporting capacity building of those more directly engaging in social stability through the United Nations at PKO training centers in thirteen countries.

Finally, let me underline the importance of enhancing maritime security and safety. Ensuring the freedom of navigation and unimpeded lawful commerce are vital for peace, stability and prosperity in the region and beyond. For this reason, we should together ensure a rules-based maritime order in accordance with the international laws as reflected in UNCLOS.

Although significant progress towards human security has been made through the TICAD process so far, it is also a fact that there are challenges yet to overcome. In today's discussion, I hope to hear many good practices as well as constructive suggestions

regarding how to further support efforts by African countries.

Thank you very much for your kind attention.