Japan’s Ambassador in Kabul Stresses the Importance of UNAMA’s Continued Presence in Afghanistan
Japan’s Ambassador to Kabul, Kenji Masamoto, has emphasized the importance of UNAMA’s (United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan) continued presence in Afghanistan, highlighting that this mission plays a significant role in coordinating relations between the current government and the international community.
In an interview with TOLOnews, Masamoto praised the political efforts of UNAMA, adding that Tokyo hopes the mission will continue in the long term. He stated, “The United Nations plays a very important role in coordinating relations between Afghanistan and the international community. Japan supports the political efforts of the United Nations for dialogue and cooperation. Our assistance to the people of Afghanistan is often carried out in coordination with this organization.”
According to him, the long-term extension of UNAMA’s mission in Afghanistan is currently under consideration. “The long-term extension of this mission is being discussed in New York, and we hope these discussions will be successful so that UNAMA can continue to play an important and effective role in coordinating relations between Afghanistan and the international community. Japan also supports this process,” he added.
Political expert, Ma’in Kal Samkani, stated, “UNAMA plays a crucial role in areas such as refugees, human rights, education, aid coordination, and other sectors. We hope that the world will not only extend this mission for a long period but also provide adequate funding and authority for it.”
Japan’s emphasis on continuing UNAMA’s mission comes as the UN Security Council extended the mission for three months on 22 March 2023. However, it remains uncertain whether the mission will be extended in the long term.
