Japan renews support for UN’s work on drugs, crimes

Japan renewed its support for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) work on drug prevention, law enforcement and counterterrorism with the signing of a funding agreement of over $28 million.

Japan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Vienna, Ambassador Mitsuru Kitano signed the agreement with UNODC Executive Director Yury Fedotov. The agreement supports several projects that aim to tackle illicit drugs, combat terrorism and strengthen law enforcement.

Fedotov expressed UNODC’s appreciation for the support provided by the Japanese Government in past years and for the upcoming period.

In 2018, the country’s supplementary budget contribution to UNODC of $28.4 million is a 25 percent increase compared to the previous year.

“UNODC will be able to further advance its essential work in Asia and Africa as well as in Afghanistan and neighboring countries, thanks to our growing partnership with Japan and the increased funding support provided by the government,” Fedotov said.

Japan is a committed partner to UNODC’s global efforts against the interrelated challenges of illicit drugs, transnational organized crime, corruption and terrorism.

Kitano said “Japan is pleased to contribute to UNODC on issues related to drugs and crime, taking into account gender aspects and seeking geographic balance in the allocation of the contribution.”

The Ambassador reiterated his country’s commitment to further strengthening its relationship with UNODC through strategic dialogue and enhancing joint actions for fruitful cooperation.