Japan-Myanmar Relations

I welcome the ceasefire agreement reached on the 15th of October, 2015 between the Government of Myanmar and the eight ethnic armed organizations.

I would like to commend both the Government of Myanmar and the ethnic armed organizations for having continued to pursue dialogue and deepen mutual trust to date, in the process of peacebuilding undertaken in Myanmar.

As Special Envoy of the Government of Japan for National Reconciliation in Myanmar, I have worked to promote dialogue between the Government of Myanmar and ethnic armed organizations as a way to build mutual trust.

It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I am here as special envoy of the Japanese government, and participating as a witness on the occasion of the signing of the ceasefire agreement.

There are several organizations who did not decide to sign this agreement this time. There are, no doubt, cultural and historical circumstances for this situation. It is hoped that their diverse circumstances will be respected, and that efforts to engage in dialogue will continue to be made by both parties, the Government of Myanmar and these organizations.

Today, many people are still forced to live under harsh and unstable conditions. It is my belief that the peace process must be continued to ensure that they will be able to enjoy peace and security.

Japan feels a deep sense of responsibility to serve as witness to this agreement. Together with the international community, Japan intends to continue extending the greatest support possible in order to promote the peace process in Myanmar.