Japan and the United Nations

(1) Address to the United Nations (September 21 (Wednesday)) 

Prime Minister Abe delivered an address to the UN General Assembly on September 21 (Wednesday). The overview of the address is as follows. 

1) North Korea as a threat to peace

The threat from North Korea's nuclear tests and missile launches has reached a dimension altogether different from what has transpired until now. We must therefore respond to this in a manner entirely distinct from our responses thus far. Now is the time for the Security Council to indicate an unmistakable attitude towards this threat of a new dimension. Japan, as a Security Council member, will lead the Security Council's discussions. North Korea has also abducted a large number of Japanese, including a girl aged 13 at the time. We are demanding that North Korea return them immediately. 

Through President Obama's visit to Hiroshima, the pledges to eliminate nuclear weapons linked both sides of the Pacific and gained new strength. 
Japan marks the 60th anniversary of its accession to the UN this year and has unwaveringly called for global peace and elimination of nuclear weapons. Japan intends to lead the discussions regarding a Security Council resolution aimed at thwarting North Korea's ambitions, as a member of the Security Council.  

2) Japan's contribution as it commemorates the 60th anniversary of joining the United Nations 

Japan has made all-out efforts during its 60 years as a member toward the UN's devotion to peace, the pursuit of growth, and the desire for a world free of injustice and unfairness. Growth serves as the foundation for all. Only when there is growth does peace take root and can injustices be rectified over time. It was only through a free and open trade and investment environment that Japan and Asia have been able to grow. Japan will continue to stand without fail on the side that upholds a world order that is open, free, and unwavering in adhering to the rule of law and international rules. 

Japan has formed a special team that is working to further the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and will faithfully carry out its promise regarding climate change and promote sustainable growth. 

Japan will spare no effort in strengthening the UN in the 60 years to come just as it did over the past 60 years.

3) Japan's UN Spirit

When providing assistance, Japan relishes working hard together with local people. Japan aims to build heartfelt bounds, and intends to hand this spirit down to the next generation. 

4) Security Council Reform

There is a need for fundamental changes in the UN governance structure, in which Africa and Latin America do not have satisfactory representation. If we do not carry out the reform of the Security Council now, it will easily be put off. Security Council Reform is an urgent issue for those who desire to strengthen the UN.

(2) Statement by Prime Minister Abe at the United Nations Summit for Refugees and Migrants (September 19 (Monday)) (PDF)

Prime Minister Abe made a statement at the United Nations Summit for Refugees and Migrants (September 19 (Monday)) and voiced support for the Summit's outcome document, which aims to implement a comprehensive response to the issue of refugees and migrants. He called on all the relevant countries to strengthen their initiatives and to act in cooperation with UN entities. He highlighted Japan's role in consolidating the G7 Ise-Shima Leaders' Declaration, which positioned refugee and migrant issues as a global issue, introduced human security and the "humanitarian and development nexus" as Japan's approach to refugees and migrants issues, and stressed the importance of cooperating with international organizations and others. He presented a new commitment to providing an assistance package of about 2.8 billion US dollars (roughly 280 billion yen) between 2016 and 2018 as humanitarian and self-reliance assistance to refugees and migrants, and assistance to host countries and communities. He also welcomed strengthening the relationship between the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN. 

(3) Bilateral Meetings and Other Meetings

1) Meeting with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar (September 19 (Monday)) 

Prime Minister Abe welcomed Qatar's recent decision to lift restrictions on importing Japanese food and stated that he hopes to continue working together to further advance the bilateral relationship in a broad range of fields relating to politics, the economy and culture. He also stated that Japan has decided to introduce multiple visas for Qatari nationals holding an ordinary passport. Sheikh Tamim welcomed the decision to introduce multiple visas. He expressed the view that Qatar wants to strengthen its strategic relationship with Japan in politics beyond its existing economic and investment relationship. The two leaders exchanged views on the situations in the Middle East situation. 

2) Meeting with Mr. Peter Thomson, President of the 71st session of the United Nations General Assembly (September 19 (Monday)) 

At the beginning, Prime Minister Abe congratulated President Thomson on his appointment as the President of the 71st session of the UNGA, along with explaining that he hopes to cooperate closely with President Thomson in fields such as UN Security Council reform, sustainable development, and the refugee issue. In response, President Thomson explained that as UNGA President he intends to take steps to achieve the Agenda for Sustainable Development as a matter of the highest priority, and intends to pursue negotiations on UNSC reform while coordinating closely with Member States. 

3) Telephone talk with H.E. Dr. Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (September 19 (Monday)) 

Prime Minister Abe told President Ghani that Japan, together with the international community, will support Afghanistan's efforts for self-reliance and stability. He also expressed strong expectations that Afghanistan would engage in areas such as improving security situations and administrative reforms in order to ensure that the assistance from the international community would bear fruit. In response, President Ghani expressed his gratitude for the significant assistance extended by Japan up to the present and stated that the Government of Afghanistan intended to make earnest efforts. The two leaders agreed to cooperate for the success of the Brussels Conference on Afghanistan, which will be held on October 4 and 5.

4) Meeting with Mr. Juan Manuel Santos, President of the Republic of Colombia (September 19 (Monday)) 

Prime Minister Abe expressed his congratulations and respect for the final agreement reached in the peace negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) that President Santos initiated. President Santos explained that the Colombia Peace Agreement will bring changes and many opportunities not only to Colombia but also to Latin America overall, and he expressed gratitude for Japan's support for the consolidation of peace, including by providing landmine removal equipment. In light of this historical peace agreement, the two leaders agreed to cooperate more closely in various fields for the purpose of Colombia's new nation building. Furthermore, based on Japanese companies' growing interest in Colombia, the two leaders expressed expectation over the further deepening of the bilateral economic relationship. The two leaders also shared the view that the negotiations for the Japan-Colombia Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which will contribute to the consolidation of peace and nation building in Colombia, are at the final stage. The two leaders exchanged views on topics such as the North Korea situation, along with confirming cooperation on regional peace and security. 

5) Courtesy call from Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton, former Secretary of State of the United States (September 19 (Monday)) 

Prime Minister Abe offered his condolences for the recent series of terrorist incidents. Noting the severe security environment in the Asia-Pacific, Prime Minister Abe stated that he would like to further strengthen the Japan-U.S. Alliance in order to contribute both to the region and the world as an "Alliance of Hope". In response, former Secretary of State Clinton expressed her view that the Japan-U.S. relationship is important for regional and global peace and prosperity. The two sides exchanged views on a variety of topics, including ways to strengthen the Japan-U.S. Alliance as well as regional affairs such as North Korea, China and maritime issues. In addition, Prime Minister Abe raised the matter of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, and both reiterated their well-known respective positions on the issue. 

6) Meeting with Theresa May MP, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (September 20 (Tuesday)) 

Regarding the UK's exit from the European Union, Prime Minister Abe asked for due consideration to enable Japanese companies' businesses to continue, and Prime Minister May said she would like to deal with this issue so that Japanese companies can continue their businesses. Both Prime Ministers confirmed that they would continue to cooperate to reach agreement in principle on the Japan-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) within this year. Both leaders confirmed that they would closely cooperate to adopt a UN Security Council resolution concerning North Korea, including additional sanctions. Both Prime Ministers confirmed that they would further advance cooperation in the area of security and defense between the two countries. The two Prime Ministers also exchanged views on regional affairs such as the South China Sea, confirmed their close cooperation, and agreed with the importance of the rule of law.  

7) Meeting with Mr. Petro Poroshenko, President of Ukraine (September 20 (Tuesday)) 

Prime Minister Abe reiterated the importance of full implementation of the Minsk Agreements and acceleration of internal reforms, and explained that Japan will continue supporting Ukraine's reform efforts, centering on the approximately 1.85 billion dollars of assistance it has announced. As concrete examples of that, Prime Minister Abe explained that from October, Japan will provide approximately 9,000 sets of cold weather jackets and trousers for police officers, and will dispatch a survey mission on logistics and the transport system, which is scheduled for November. In response, President Poroshenko expressed gratitude for Japan's political and economic support for Ukraine. In addition, given that both countries are members of the UN Security Council, the two leaders shared the view that they will collaborate closely in the international arena, including on the adoption of a new sanctions resolution on North Korea. 

8) Meeting with Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan (September 20 (Tuesday)) 

Prime Minister Abe explained that Japan attaches importance to its relationship with Pakistan, stated that Japan supports policies pursued by Prime Minister Sharif of (a) counter-terrorism, (b) economic reform, and (c) promoting amicable relations with neighboring countries, and proposing a dialogue on counter-terrorism measures. Prime Minister Sharif responded by expressing his gratitude, along with stating that after three and a half years, the reform efforts he had been engaging in since his inauguration were producing results. The two leaders exchanged views on regional situations, and confirmed their intentions to work together for the adoption of a new UN Security Council resolution on North Korea, including further sanctions. Prime Minister Sharif explained the circumstances in Kashmir, along with expressing his hope toward Japan's role in achieving a peaceful resolution. 

9) Informal Talks with Mr. Barack H. Obama, President of the United States of America (September 20 (Tuesday)) 

The leaders of Japan and the United States held informal talks on the occasion of the Leaders' Summit on Refugees hosted by President Obama. They confirmed that both countries will collaborate closely toward the adoption of a sanctions resolution on North Korea. 

10) Meeting with Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations (September 20 (Tuesday)) 

Prime Minister Abe and Secretary-General Ban confirmed that they will continue to coordinate closely in addressing North Korea's nuclear issue. Additionally, Prime Minister Abe explained that "The Legislation for Peace and Security" went into effect, which will enable Japan to make greater international contributions in the security field through Peacekeeping Operations (PKO) and logistics support. Secretary-General Ban expressed appreciation for Japan's contributions in Afghanistan and stated that he hopes Japan will conclude the Paris Agreement as quickly as possible.        

11) Informal Talk with Dr. Li Keqiang, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China (September 21 (Wednesday))

The two leaders held an informal talk with Premier Li at the UN headquarters. The two leaders agreed to work closely in the Security Council regarding the issues of North Korea and to work together toward holding a Japan-China-ROK Trilateral Summit Meeting within this year.  

12) Meeting with Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of the Republic of Turkey (September 21 (Wednesday))

Prime Minister Abe expressed his respect for the unity and solidarity displayed by the people of Turkey in overcoming the attempted coup d'etat. He also mentioned a meeting between foreign ministers, steady preparations for the establishment of the Turkish-Japanese Science and Technology University in the Republic of Turkey, and cooperation on the Sinop Nuclear Power Plant and in the field of space. President Erdogan congratulated Prime Minister Abe on the Liberal Democratic Party's victory in the House of Councilors election, and explained the attempted coup d'etat that occurred in Turkey. He also mentioned progress in bilateral projects. The two leaders exchanged views on the situation in Syria. 

13) Courtesy call from Mr. Joe Biden, Vice President of the United States of America (September 21 (Wednesday))

Prime Minister Abe expressed his sincere condolences over the recent terrorist attacks in New York and elsewhere and stated the need to respond with resolute resilience to terrorism. He also expressed his view that because the current international order is facing various challenges such as the repeated nuclear tests and missile launches by North Korea and attempts to unilaterally change the status quo in the East China Sea and South China Sea, the role the Japan-U.S. Alliance plays in the stability and prosperity of the regional and international communities is more important than ever before. Prime Minister Abe stated that he would like to deepen discussions with Vice President Biden. In response, Vice President Biden expressed his gratitude for Prime Minister Abe's comments on the terrorist attacks, stating that the Japan-U.S. Alliance is important not only for the peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region but for those of the international community and that he wants to continue to strengthen the alliance relationship. 

In addition, Prime Minister Abe stated that it is vital to further strengthen the Japan-U.S. Alliance, noted that there is no change to Japan's position that the relocation of Futenma Air Station to Henoko is the only solution, and stated that the judicial process is also progressing. The two sides confirmed they will continue to work together to mitigate the impact on Okinawa. 

The two leaders also discussed North Korea, China, TPP, and the Russia-Ukraine situation and agreed that Japan and the United States should work together even more closely.  

14) Meeting with H.E. Dr. Hassan Rouhani, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran (September 21 (Wednesday))

President Rouhani commented that Iran hoped to further expand economic, trade, and investment relations, and Prime Minister Abe replied that Japan is making utmost efforts to strengthen cooperation with Iran, including establishing a 10 billion dollar financing facility, securing Diet approval for the Japan-Iran Investment Agreement, and intended to realize full-fledged business activities. He also explained that he strongly hoped Iran would continue implementing the agreement, which formed the basis for such cooperation.    

Additionally, Prime Minister Abe Prime Minister Abe requested that Iran sever ties with North Korea in military cooperation, stated that he hoped to jointly issue a message towards denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and requested understanding and cooperation of Iran for prompt resolution of the abductions issue. President Rouhani responded that development of weapons of mass destruction would not contribute to stability in any part of the world, and that he supported the denuclearization process. He further stated that he condemned abductions of any form as an inhumane act.   

Prime Minister Abe encouraged Iran to play a more constructive role in stabilizing the Middle East and to have dialogue with Saudi Arabia. President Rouhani responded that Iran did not desire tensions with Saudi Arabia. President Rouhani once again offered invitation for Prime Minister Abe to Iran, and Prime Minister Abe in response expressed his gratitude for the successive invitations and stated that he hoped to take opportunities to visit Iran at an appropriate timing. 

(4) Multilateral Meetings and Other Events 

1) Japan-Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (September 20 (Tuesday)) 

Prime Minister Abe hosted the Third Japan-Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting and explained steady implementation of commitments and cooperation discussed at the Seventh Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM7). He also called for cooperation regarding North Korea, rule of law at seas, Security Council reforms, and other issues. Prime Minister Abe and the Pacific islands leaders discussed common challenges and agreed to move forward in cooperation. Leaders and Ministers from the Pacific Islands participated in the meeting, including H.E. Peter Martin Christian, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, H.E.Dr. Hilda Heine, President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Hon. Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Neioti Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister of the Independent State of Samoa, Hon. Manasseh Damukana Sogavare, Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, and Hon. Charlot Salwai, Tabimasmas Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu.

2) Leaders' Summit on Refugees hosted by President Obama (September 20 (Tuesday))  

Prime Minister Abe delivered a statement at the Leaders' Summit on Refugees hosted by President Obama. He stressed the importance of a comprehensive response to address refugee issues taking advantage of each country and organization's relative strengths. As new initiatives, he presented 1) an assistance package of about 2.8 billion US dollars (roughly 280 billion yen) between 2016 and 2018 and support amounting to approximately 100 million US dollars to the World Bank's Global Crisis Response Platform, 2) providing human resource development, including educational assistance and vocational training to approximately one million people affected by conflicts in 2016, and 3) acceptance of refugees and others (Japan will accept up to 150 Syrian students as announced this May and will welcome their families within Japan's institutional framework for students who wish to be accompanied by their family or bring their family to Japan). 

3) HeForShe Reception (September 20 (Tuesday))  

Prime Minister Abe participated in UN Women's HeForShe (UN Women's campaign calling on men and boys to promote gender equality) reception. He explained Japan's initiatives for realization of a "society where women shine" and called for HeForShe supporters to implement initiatives for worldwide achievement of societies where women shine.

4) United Nations Security Council High-Level Briefing on Syria (September 21 (Wednesday))

Prime Minister Abe expressed deep concern over threats to the cessation of hostilities throughout Syria based on the U.S.-Russia Agreement concluded this month and stressed the need for strong backing from the UN Security Council for improvement of humanitarian access and transition to a political process. He also voiced strong support for initiatives led by the UN Special Envoy and explained Japan's efforts as a member of the UN Security Council. He explained Japan's intention to provide 1.13 billion dollars (125 billion yen) in assistance for Syria, Iraq, and other neighboring countries this year through collaboration with international entities as specific contributions. 

(5) Other Events

1) Opening Remarks at "Investment Opportunities in Japan toward the New Asia-Pacific Era" (September 19 (Monday))  

Prime Minister Abe highlighted 1) improvements in the investment environment based on Abenomics, 2) creation of a "Japanese Green Card for Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals" aimed at increasing high-level human resources, 3) the role of TPP as a catalyst for promoting reforms and evidence of the U.S. resolve to engage as a leader in the Asia-Pacific region, and 4) a firm commitment to the early entry into force of TPP and the importance of Japan and the United States leading efforts in a timely manner. 

2) Opening Remarks at the "Visit Japan Tourism Seminar" (September 19 (Monday))  

Prime Minister Abe called for utilizing the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games to cultivate diverse exchanges among people from around the world and truly make Japan a country that is open to the world. He also advocated for more Americans to visit Japan and experience the appeals of Japanese localities and endless discoveries possible around Japan. 

3) Atlantic Council's 2016 Global Citizen Awards Ceremony (September 19 (Monday))

Prime Minister Abe attended the 2016 Global Citizen Awards Ceremony held by the Atlantic Council, a think tank that makes policy recommendations for political and economic issues worldwide, and received the 2016 Global Citizen Award, which is given to people who have contributed to advances in politics, economics, and culture on a global scale, along with Mr. Matteo Renzi, Prime Minister of Italy, and musician Mr. Wynton Marsalis. In his remarks, Prime Minister Abe expressed gratitude for receiving the award and noted that the United States is always a residential power in the Asia-Pacific region and Japan is the best, strongest and most reliable partner in pursuit of the U.S. continued involvement in the region. 

4) Meeting with Japanese staff working at International Organizations (September 20 (Tuesday))

Prime Minister Abe held a meeting with 88 Japanese staff at international organizations, including the UN Secretariat. He stated that this year is the 60th anniversary of Japan's UN membership and that the UN is an important partner for implementing Japan's role as a Proactive Contributor to Peace. He also offered encouragement by explaining that Japan intends to continue support for further promotion of Japanese staff, including a goal of having 1,000 Japanese employees at UN-related organizations by 2025.  

5) A Dialogue with the New York based Business and Financial Community (September 21 (Wednesday))  

Prime Minister Abe directly explained the outlook for the Japanese economy and the direction of Japan's economic policies to the leading businessmen and investors in the United States with significant influence in the United States and worldwide. He also spoke about strengthening Japan-U.S. economic relations, including enhancing investments in Japan. He stated the Japanese Government's resolve to have the approval of the TPP Agreement as soon as possible in the Extraordinary Diet Session starting from next week and expressed Japan's strong expectation that the United States can promptly obtain congressional approval as well.  

6) Attendance at the Washoku (Japanese Food) Reception (September 21 (Wednesday))

Prime Minister Abe attended the Washoku Reception aimed at promoting the appeal of Japanese food and increasing understanding of Japanese culture. More than 230 people attended the reception including the President of Mongolia, the President of Panama, and other top officials from around the world, relevant parties from international institutions , and U.S. Congress. In his greeting, Prime Minister Abe stated that this year is the 60th anniversary of Japan's accession to the UN and that Japan hopes to deepen exchange through Japanese food.

September 18 (Sunday) 
Afternoon
Arrival in New York

September 19 (Monday)
Morning
Investment Opportunities in Japan toward the New Asia-Pacific Era
Visit Japan Tourism Seminar Japan-Qatar Summit Meeting
Meeting with UN General Assembly President Thomson 

Afternoon
Japan-Afghanistan Summit Meeting (Telephone Talk) 
Japan-Colombia Summit Meeting
United Nations Summit for Refugees and Migrants
Courtesy Call from former US Secretary of State Clinton 
Atlantic Council's 2016 Global Citizen Awards Ceremony 

September 20 (Tuesday) 
Morning  
Japan-United Kingdom Summit Meeting
Japan-Ukraine Summit Meeting
Japan-Pakistan Summit Meeting

Afternoon
Third Japan-Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting
Leaders' Summit on Refugees Hosted by President Obama
Informal Talk by Japanese and U.S. Leaders
Meeting with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
Meeting to Encourage Japanese Staff at International Organizations
HeForShe Reception

September 21 (Wednesday)
Morning  
A Dialogue with the New York based Business and Financial Community
Informal Talk by Japanese and Chinese Leaders
UN Security Council High-Level Briefing on Syria
Japan-Turkey Summit Meeting

Afternoon
Courtesy Call from U.S. Vice President Biden
Address to the UN General Assembly
Japan-Iran Summit Meeting
Japan Food Reception

September 22 (Thursday) 
Morning  
Departure from New York (Arrival in Havana in the afternoon)