Statement by Yukiya HAMAMOTO, Minister, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing, Agenda item “Armenia Letter dated 13 September 2022.”
“This week, the Members of the United Nations have assembled to discuss international peace and security. We have talked about the ways and the need to enhance international cooperation. We have expressed our trust in multilateralism.
In the middle of these discussions, the military activities were carried out in Nagorno-Karabakh. Japan expressed serious concern over the worsening situation and strongly called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, and for Azerbaijan to stop its military activities. Any unilateral change to worsen the situation is unacceptable.
As of 20 September local time, it was agreed to suspend military activities. Although the military confrontation was stopped, the situation is still remain uncertain. The Security Council should remain seized of the situation on the ground to influence events in a positive direction.
Mr. President,
The Security Council should particularly remain seized of the humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. Safeguarding local livelihoods must be the utmost priority. The lives of the most vulnerable, including the sick and chronically ill, elderly, women and children, must not be threatened. Humanitarian access by international organizations must be unimpeded to protect the security and needs of the local population.
The settlement of the conflict between Azerbaijan and the related parties is crucial for peace and stability in the Caucasus region. Dialogue between them is critical. Japan calls on all parties to resolve issues through peaceful means”
