42nd Session of the Human Rights Council Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry, Statement by Minister Masashi NAKAGOME, the Permanent Mission of Japan in Geneva (17 September 2019)
2019/9/18
Interactive Dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry
on the Syrian Arab Republic
Statement by Mr. Masashi NAKAGOME
Minister, Permanent Mission of Japan in Geneva
Thank you, Mr. President.
Japan welcomes the update on the COI report and appreciates the Commission’s efforts. We deplore the ongoing dire humanitarian and human rights situation in Syria. The crisis in Syria can only be solved through a political solution, not by any military means.
With regard to Idlib, we remain deeply concerned by the violence and human rights violations. Japan hopes to see the complete and lasting ceasefire in Idlib.
To improve the human rights situation in Syria, it is essential to make progress in the political process while building mutual trust in accordance with UNSC Resolution 2254. Japan fully supports the efforts of the UN Special Envoy Mr. Pedersen to promote the political process, including the convening of the constitutional committee. We look forward to seeing the constitutional committee launched in Geneva as soon as possible.
Finally, Japan would like to reiterate its commitment to support the neediest people wherever they are, and to cooperate with the international community toward the cessation of all violence in Syria.
I thank you, Mr. President.