In a collective move, Japan, Germany, Brazil, and India – commonly known as the G4 nations – have committed to work collaboratively towards the reform of the United Nations Security Council.
The Japanese Broadcasting Corporation (NHK) reported that the Foreign Ministers of the G4 countries convened in New York, parallel to the United Nations General Assembly meetings. The report highlighted the unified aim of these nations to secure permanent seats in the Council.
NHK further elaborated that Japan’s Foreign Minister, Yoko Kamikawa, in coordination with her counterparts from the three other countries, agreed on the growing importance of enhancing the United Nations’ roles.
This consensus emerges amid the ongoing Russian military operations in Ukraine. The ministers shared perspectives on the potential ways to reform the Security Council.
The quartet of ministers agreed that increasing the number of both permanent and non-permanent members would make the Council more representative. They emphasized a collective effort to enhance dialogue among all UN members, aiming for tangible progress within a specified timeframe.
NHK also mentioned that Foreign Minister Kamikawa had discussions with the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres. She stressed the urgency of Security Council reforms and bolstering the United Nations’ functions. Additionally, Kamikawa addressed the treatment and dilution of water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean.
The G4 nations have historically shown interest in securing permanent seats in the United Nations Security Council. Their quest for a more inclusive and representative Council comes at a time when international geopolitical situations, like the one in Ukraine, highlight the need for a more effective global response.
Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi nuclear issue is another significant concern, indicative of the broader environmental challenges that require international cooperation.
