In a comprehensive address to the United Nations General Assembly on September 22, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi underscored Japan’s unwavering commitment to the rule of law and its steadfast support for international judicial institutions. Highlighting Japan’s dedication to maintaining a free and open international order, Takaichi reaffirmed the country’s long-standing backing for bodies such as the International Criminal Court (ICC), even as she refrained from directly addressing U.S. sanctions against ICC President Tomoko Akane, a Japanese national.
Japan has been a consistent advocate for the ICC and other such judicial entities, contributing through the appointment of Japanese judges. Takaichi also called for the elimination of the outdated “enemy state” clauses in the UN Charter, aligning her stance with a 2005 UN General Assembly resolution that advocated for their removal.
Addressing broader issues, Takaichi pushed for reforms within the UN Security Council, advocating for an expansion in both permanent and non-permanent membership to more accurately reflect the current global landscape. She expressed concern over economic and security challenges, particularly emphasizing the importance of strengthening supply-chain resilience and critiquing arbitrary restrictions on the export of critical resources and minerals.
On the technological front, Takaichi acknowledged the dual nature of artificial intelligence, recognizing its potential benefits while cautioning against its security risks. To this end, she announced Japan’s intention to host an AI summit to deliberate on the risks posed by advanced AI systems.
Takaichi’s speech encapsulated Japan’s international policy priorities, which include a solid emphasis on the rule of law, multilateral cooperation, and necessary reforms within the United Nations, along with proactive responses to emerging technological and security challenges.