(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
I have an announcement about the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). Currently, Self-Defense Force (SDF) personnel are dispatched as staff officers. During the cabinet meeting that was held today, June 13, it was decided that the dispatch period will be extended pursuant to United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions, and that the number of personnel dispatched and their tasks will be partially amended. UNMISS is the only UN Peacekeeping Operation (PKO) to which Japan currently dispatches personnel. The continued dispatch of personnel is significant for maintaining Japan’s involvement in UN peace efforts, along with securing opportunities for development of globally minded human resources and accumulating expertise and experience in international peace cooperation. Through the dispatch of SDF personnel, Japan will continue to contribute to the peace and stability of South Sudan, neighboring African countries, and the world.