Press Releases

1. Japan expresses strong concern over a large number of casualties and refugees resulting from the clashes between the Government of the Republic of South Sudan and anti-government groups continuing since the evening of December 15th in Juba, and the fact that UN peacekeeping force which has been deployed to protect civilians had been attacked and caused casualties.

2. Japan again strongly calls on all relevant parties to stop the violence and to resolve the situation through dialogue. In this regard, Japan supports efforts made by relevant countries and institutions including African Union (AU) and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) toward the peaceful resolution, and calls for parties concerned in South Sudan to earnestly address the issue.

3. In accordance with a view that peace and stability of South Sudan is a key for peace and stability of Africa as whole, Japan has consistently and actively supported the nation-building of South Sudan through the TICAD Process and dispatch of Japan Self Defense Force to the United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan (UNMISS) since its accomplishment of the independence in 2011.

4. Japan conducts assistance operation by Japan Self Defense Forces in cooperation with related countries and international organization including United Nations and African Union, and continuously takes necessary measures for stability of South Sudan. Also, Japan continues to make every effort to ensure the safety of Japanese citizens in the country.