Statement by Ambassador Mr. Atsushi KAIFU at the 68th Session of Working Group A
2025/10/13
Acting Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates,
At the outset, allow me to express Japan’s sincere gratitude to the Chair of Working Group A in her absence, as well as Vice-Chairs, and to the Secretariat for their tireless efforts in preparing this meeting. We also pay tribute to Executive Secretary, Dr. Floyd for his opening statement, and mourn the passing of Dr. Wolfgang Hoffmann, the first Executive Secretary of the CTBTO, whose legacy endures in this vital endeavor for peace.
As we approach the 30th anniversary of the CTBT’s opening for signature, Japan reaffirms its commitment to the Treaty and its goal of a world without nuclear weapons.
Yet now, we are faced with grave matters. First and foremost is the question of the 2026–2027 Programme and Budget, which—especially with the inclusion of the IMS sustainability and capacity building strategies—requires careful and candid deliberation. We must engage earnestly in this process, for the decisions we make will reverberate through the very core of this Treaty’s verification regime.
Japan maintains its position of Zero Nominal Growth (ZNG) in light of current budgetary constraints. At the same time, we acknowledge the imperative of ensuring the IMS's continued effectiveness and continue to encourage the PTS to pursue cost efficiency and operational streamlining.
Japan recognizes the divergence of views among States Signatories and the increasing scrutiny international organizations face. But it is precisely in such times that we must summon the collective will to find common ground, to strive not for perfection, but for progress.
Japan believes the IMS is not merely a technical instrument. It is a sentinel. A guardian against the return of the nuclear shadows. And the IMS is a vital part that ensures that Nagasaki remains the last.
On North Korea, Japan expresses serious concerns over the advancement of North Korea’s nuclear and missile development. We urge North Korea not to conduct any destabilizing or provocative actions, including a nuclear test. Japan also urges North Korea to comply with its obligations under the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, to return to full compliance with the NPT and to sign and ratify the CTBT at the earliest possible date. Japan reiterates its firm dedication to achieving the complete denuclearization of North Korea in accordance with UNSC resolutions and remains resolute in upholding its crucial responsibilities toward this goal.
In closing, Japan stands ready to engage constructively in the work of this session. Let our deliberations be guided by reason, tempered with resolve, and inspired by our shared vision—a world without nuclear weapons.
Thank you.
At the outset, allow me to express Japan’s sincere gratitude to the Chair of Working Group A in her absence, as well as Vice-Chairs, and to the Secretariat for their tireless efforts in preparing this meeting. We also pay tribute to Executive Secretary, Dr. Floyd for his opening statement, and mourn the passing of Dr. Wolfgang Hoffmann, the first Executive Secretary of the CTBTO, whose legacy endures in this vital endeavor for peace.
As we approach the 30th anniversary of the CTBT’s opening for signature, Japan reaffirms its commitment to the Treaty and its goal of a world without nuclear weapons.
Yet now, we are faced with grave matters. First and foremost is the question of the 2026–2027 Programme and Budget, which—especially with the inclusion of the IMS sustainability and capacity building strategies—requires careful and candid deliberation. We must engage earnestly in this process, for the decisions we make will reverberate through the very core of this Treaty’s verification regime.
Japan maintains its position of Zero Nominal Growth (ZNG) in light of current budgetary constraints. At the same time, we acknowledge the imperative of ensuring the IMS's continued effectiveness and continue to encourage the PTS to pursue cost efficiency and operational streamlining.
Japan recognizes the divergence of views among States Signatories and the increasing scrutiny international organizations face. But it is precisely in such times that we must summon the collective will to find common ground, to strive not for perfection, but for progress.
Japan believes the IMS is not merely a technical instrument. It is a sentinel. A guardian against the return of the nuclear shadows. And the IMS is a vital part that ensures that Nagasaki remains the last.
On North Korea, Japan expresses serious concerns over the advancement of North Korea’s nuclear and missile development. We urge North Korea not to conduct any destabilizing or provocative actions, including a nuclear test. Japan also urges North Korea to comply with its obligations under the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, to return to full compliance with the NPT and to sign and ratify the CTBT at the earliest possible date. Japan reiterates its firm dedication to achieving the complete denuclearization of North Korea in accordance with UNSC resolutions and remains resolute in upholding its crucial responsibilities toward this goal.
In closing, Japan stands ready to engage constructively in the work of this session. Let our deliberations be guided by reason, tempered with resolve, and inspired by our shared vision—a world without nuclear weapons.
Thank you.