Remarks by Foreign Minister of Japan, H.E. Mr. Motegi on the Presidential election in Syria in Press Conference (June 1, 2021)
2021/6/11
Mr. Azhari (Pan Orient News): What is Japan's position on the presidential elections that were held in Syria? President Assad won a new term, and won 95% of the vote. Japan still has diplomatic relations with Syria, so what is your position on the election results?
Minister Motegi: Japan’s position is that in order to realize a political solution to the Syria crisis, the presidential election should be participated in by all Syrians and conducted in a manner that obtains the understanding of the international community. We have been repeatedly urging the Government of Syria to take a constructive response.
Amidst this, Japan believes it is regrettable that the election was implemented without any constructive response by the Government of Syria, without realization of a ceasefire throughout Syria, and without progress in the political process. We recognize that the implementation of this election was inconsistent with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254 which expresses support for free and fair elections, pursuant to the new constitution.
Japan will continue to persistently urge the Government of Syria to take a constructive response for progress in the political process toward a political solution to the Syria crisis, and also continue diplomatic efforts in close cooperation with the international community.
Minister Motegi: Japan’s position is that in order to realize a political solution to the Syria crisis, the presidential election should be participated in by all Syrians and conducted in a manner that obtains the understanding of the international community. We have been repeatedly urging the Government of Syria to take a constructive response.
Amidst this, Japan believes it is regrettable that the election was implemented without any constructive response by the Government of Syria, without realization of a ceasefire throughout Syria, and without progress in the political process. We recognize that the implementation of this election was inconsistent with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254 which expresses support for free and fair elections, pursuant to the new constitution.
Japan will continue to persistently urge the Government of Syria to take a constructive response for progress in the political process toward a political solution to the Syria crisis, and also continue diplomatic efforts in close cooperation with the international community.
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