Japan and the United Nations
Gathering to Encourage Japanese UN staff members
September 22, 2026
On September 22, commencing at 11:00 a.m. local time (midnight on September 22, Japan time) for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who was visiting New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly, held a gathering to encourage Japanese staff members of the United Nations (UN), making the following points. Approximately 70 Japanese UN staff members working at UN entities in New York were present.
- This year marks the 70th anniversary of Japan’s accession to the United Nations. Since joining the UN, Japan has worked hand in hand with the UN to address various challenges the international community is facing. As the international situation becomes increasingly severe and global issues more complex, the UN itself must reform and play an even more important role in resolving these challenges.
- For Japan to advance such cooperation with the UN, the presence of Japanese UN staff members who are striving on its front lines is indispensable. As the Minister for Foreign Affairs, I am sincerely proud that the Japanese UN staff members are making significant contributions in their respective fields with high aspirations.
- Meanwhile, due to the UN’s financial difficulties and other factors, the environment surrounding UN staff members has become increasingly challenging. Even under these circumstances, while taking UN80 into account, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has worked to ensure the stable functioning of the UN system and to secure the budgets related to that purpose. Also, I have personally taken opportunities, such as meetings with relevant officials of various international organizations, to call for Japanese UN staff members to be given opportunities to play an active role commensurate with their abilities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is determined to continue providing its utmost support so that the Japanese UN staff members can further demonstrate their abilities and contribute to a better future.