International Law and Treaties
Meeting between Foreign Minister Kamikawa and H.E. Judge Donoghue, President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ)
January 11, 2024
On January 11, commencing at 8:45 a.m. local time (4:45 p.m. JST) for approximately 20 minutes, Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, during her visit to the Netherlands, held a meeting with H.E. Judge Joan E. Donoghue, President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The overview is as follows.
- Minister Kamikawa, mentioning that the “rule of law” is needed as opposed to force or coercion at a time when the world is becoming increasingly divided and confrontational, stated that she decided to visit the ICJ to redemonstrate Japan’s support for the ICJ’s role for the “rule of law”, with the peaceful settlement of disputes being one of the most important principles. She also stated that Japan has consistently supported the role of the ICJ by declaring its acceptance of compulsory jurisdiction since becoming a party to the ICJ Statute in 1954 and having produced four judges including the current Judge Iwasawa. Furthermore, she also stated that ICJ, which embodies the “rule of law”, plays a significant role in the current international situation that faces attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force, and that Japan will actively contribute as much as possible to the ICJ’s work, such as proceedings of advisory opinions through submission of written statements or participation of oral hearings.
- While emphasizing that Japan would continue to call on states to accept the compulsory jurisdiction of the ICJ to reinforce the role of the ICJ, Minister Kamikawa stated that Japan will make further efforts based on Japan’s extensive track record in supporting the development of legal systems and human resource in Asia, thereby leading to creating an environment where international law is observed in good faith. She also expressed her intention to strengthen cooperation with Africa with a view to this year’s TICAD Ministerial Meeting.
- Judge Donoghue welcomed Minister Kamikawa’s visit to the ICJ and extended her deep respect and appreciation for Japan’s commitment to the “rule of law”. She also expressed her welcome for Japan’s further involvement. The two sides also shared their recognition of the importance of the development of young human resource.