Thursday, September 25, 2008

The Prime Minister Delivers an Address at the 63rd Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations and Attends Other Activities

On September 25 (Japan Time: September 26), Prime Minister Taro Aso delivered an address at the General Debate of the General Assembly of the United Nations, which is being held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The General Debate is an occasion for the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the President of the General Assembly, and representatives of member states of the United Nations (there are currently 192 member states) and others to deliver an address one after the other. The General Debate provides an opportunity for each nation to raise issues on which they place emphasis during a session of the General Assembly, and to express views on these issues.

Referring to the recent global financial uncertainty, Prime Minister Aso said at the beginning of his address, "Japan is eager to contribute its experiences and its knowledge." He also emphasized his determination for Japan to contribute to the stability of the world economy, saying, "Japan's primary responsibility lies in invigorating its own economy. In light of the size of the Japanese economy, the second-largest in the world, certainly this would be the most immediately effective contribution that Japan can deliver. I will work determinedly to realise this very contribution."

On North Korean issues, Prime Minister Aso urged North Korea to resolve the abduction issue and abandon its nuclear programs. He said, "In parallel with the actions that North Korea would take, I am prepared to take actions towards the resolution of the outstanding issues of concern between Japan and North Korea and the settlement of the unfortunate past between us, moving Japan-North Korea relations forward. What we await is action by North Korea. I will also continue to pursue the abandonment of North Korea's nuclear capabilities and its nuclear weapons through the framework of the Six-Party Talks."

On Japan's diplomatic policy, Prime Minister Aso said, "Japan has come a long way, with the Japan-US alliance as an unchangeable cornerstone, while steadfastly enhancing the relationships with neighbouring Asian nations," expressing Japan's position to strongly emphasize the importance of the United Nations, to continue to follow the path of international cooperation, and to work in solidarity with countries holding fundamental values in common.

After delivering his address, Prime Minister Aso enjoyed talking with Dr. Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State of the United States of America, and Bono, a musician. Afterwards, the Prime Minister attended the official dinner on the food crisis and climate change hosted by the Secretary-General.

Related Link

• Address by Prime Minister Aso at the 63rd Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (September 25, 2008)