(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
I have an announcement about the extension of staff officers’ dispatch to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). Currently, six Self-Defense Force (SDF) personnel are dispatched to UNMISS as staff officers. During the cabinet meeting that was held today, June 21, it was decided that the dispatch period will be extended by one year. UNMISS is the only United Nations (UN) Peacekeeping Operation (PKO) to which Japan currently dispatches personnel. The continued dispatch of personnel is important for maintaining Japan’s involvement in UN peace efforts. Japan will continue to contribute to the peace and stability of South Sudan through the dispatch of SDF personnel.