Statement by Ambassador Atsushi Kaifu on agenda item 3 (genearl debate) at the 68th Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND)
2025/3/10
Thank you, Mr. Chair,
Excellencies, dear colleagues,
I congratulate Ambassador Kumaran on his election as the Chair and thank the Secretariat for organizing this session.
Japan expresses concern that ongoing aggression against Ukraine may have impacted situations pertinent to drug trafficking, and strains Ukraine's health system including prevention and treatment measures for substance use disorder. Impacts may extend beyond the region and affect us all. We renew our support to people in Ukraine.
Chair,
The global drug problem threatens public health, economic stability, and social cohesion. It deepens poverty and weakens governance. Unified commitments are essential to tackle both root causes and consequences.
A powerful symbol of shared commitment stands at the heart of the VIC. It is the Peace Bell, donated by Japanese NGOs in 1995. As we mark its 30th anniversary, I invite you all to a high-level event on Wednesday to renew our solidarity.
Chair,
Let me highlight some of pressing global threats nowadays.
First, the surge in synthetic drugs. It devastates communities and exacerbates public health and security.
Second, the increasing use of advanced technologies by criminal networks. It makes illicit drugs traffic more efficiently.
Third, weak social support system. Many vulnerable to drug abuse and crime are left behind.
Recognizing these challenges, Japan, in collaboration with UNODC, adopts a holistic approach that addresses all stages of the drug problems, including both demand and supply aspects. Our actions focus on, among others:
Number 1, enhancing maritime law enforcement. As sea routes are major illicit trafficking channels, this approach is effective also for arms and human smuggling.
Number 2, supporting countries facing enormous challenges. In Afghanistan, for example, Japan assists alternative development, prevention, and treatment programs, while participating in the Doha Meeting led by the Secretary-General. Details will be shared at the high-level side event on Wednesday.
And Number 3, sharing our expertise. We will reinforce UNODC’s Bangkok office by sending a Japanese drug control expert to strengthen regional cooperation and intelligence-sharing.
These actions reflect our commitment to tackle global crisis.
Mr. Chair, in concluding,
While respecting unique perspective and priorities of Each Member State, we must bring our collective commitment into action.
A sound future depends on sustained, coordinated action across borders and generations. Japan remains steadfast in this mission. The sound of peace only resonates when we all ring the bell together.
Thank you.
Excellencies, dear colleagues,
I congratulate Ambassador Kumaran on his election as the Chair and thank the Secretariat for organizing this session.
Japan expresses concern that ongoing aggression against Ukraine may have impacted situations pertinent to drug trafficking, and strains Ukraine's health system including prevention and treatment measures for substance use disorder. Impacts may extend beyond the region and affect us all. We renew our support to people in Ukraine.
Chair,
The global drug problem threatens public health, economic stability, and social cohesion. It deepens poverty and weakens governance. Unified commitments are essential to tackle both root causes and consequences.
A powerful symbol of shared commitment stands at the heart of the VIC. It is the Peace Bell, donated by Japanese NGOs in 1995. As we mark its 30th anniversary, I invite you all to a high-level event on Wednesday to renew our solidarity.
Chair,
Let me highlight some of pressing global threats nowadays.
First, the surge in synthetic drugs. It devastates communities and exacerbates public health and security.
Second, the increasing use of advanced technologies by criminal networks. It makes illicit drugs traffic more efficiently.
Third, weak social support system. Many vulnerable to drug abuse and crime are left behind.
Recognizing these challenges, Japan, in collaboration with UNODC, adopts a holistic approach that addresses all stages of the drug problems, including both demand and supply aspects. Our actions focus on, among others:
Number 1, enhancing maritime law enforcement. As sea routes are major illicit trafficking channels, this approach is effective also for arms and human smuggling.
Number 2, supporting countries facing enormous challenges. In Afghanistan, for example, Japan assists alternative development, prevention, and treatment programs, while participating in the Doha Meeting led by the Secretary-General. Details will be shared at the high-level side event on Wednesday.
And Number 3, sharing our expertise. We will reinforce UNODC’s Bangkok office by sending a Japanese drug control expert to strengthen regional cooperation and intelligence-sharing.
These actions reflect our commitment to tackle global crisis.
Mr. Chair, in concluding,
While respecting unique perspective and priorities of Each Member State, we must bring our collective commitment into action.
A sound future depends on sustained, coordinated action across borders and generations. Japan remains steadfast in this mission. The sound of peace only resonates when we all ring the bell together.
Thank you.