Statement by Foreign Minister Keizo Obuchi on the Award of the Nobel Peace Prize to the International Campaign to Ban Landmines and its Coordinator Jody Williams

October 10, 1997

1. I wish to express wholehearted congratulations to the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) and its coordinator Jody Williams on being awarded this year's Nobel Peace Prize.
   
   
2. As a network linking more than 1,000 NGOs all over the world which are tackling the problem of anti-personnel landmines, the ICBL has been playing a great role in the promotion of international efforts for a total ban on anti-personnel landmines, mine clearance, assistance to the victims and related activities. This award represents a tribute to the Campaign for its activities. The Government of Japan highly appreciates the fervent efforts made by the ICBL and Jody Williams.
   
   
3. The Government of Japan will continue to strive to realize a universal and effective total ban on landmines and contribute vigorously to mine clearing activities and aid to the victims. I sincerely hope that the awarding of the prize will help further promote international efforts to overcome the problems.