Statement by Mr. Masahiko Koumura, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the Unanimous Adoption of the United Nations Security Council Resolution on the Extension of the Authorization of the ISAF (International Security Assistance Force) in Afghanistan

September 23, 2008
Japanese

Japan welcomes that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) unanimously adopted Resolution 1833 on September 22 (New York time) regarding the extension of the authorization of ISAF (International Security Assistance Force), which has been deployed in Afghanistan.
UNSC Resolution 1833, like Resolution 1776 adopted last year, appreciates the contributions of many countries to the OEF (Operation Enduring Freedom) coalition, which includes the maritime interdiction component, and emphasizes the need for sustained international efforts including those of ISAF and the OEF coalition. The Government of Japan regards this resolution as renewed positive evaluation given by the international community and the UNSC for international efforts including Japan’s assistance for the maritime interdiction activities. The Government of Japan also considers it as a clear expression of the need to continue these activities.
In response to the unanimous adoption of the Resolution 1833, the Government of Japan believes that it is essential to maintain the replenishment support activities provided by the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force for the maritime interdiction activities as a responsible member of the international community.

(END)