Japan / Statement by the Press Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, on the Situation in the Central African Republic

TOKYO, Japan, December 12, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- 1. Japan is deeply concerned about the further deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the Central African Republic due to the clash that occurred on December 5 and at the same time strongly urges restraint by all the relevant parties.

2. Japan welcomes and expects continuous efforts for peace and stability in the Central African Republic made by countries and organizations in the region, in particular the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of the Central African States (ECCAS). Moreover, Japan welcomes the support by French troops that assist the efforts made by the nations and organizations in the region to avoid escalation of violence in the Central African Republic through the mandate authorized in the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2127.

3. Japan expects such actions will lead to restoration of security in the Central African Republic. In addition, Japan expects that such restoration of security will lead to realization of free, fair and transparent democratic elections.