Remarks in December 2007


Mr. Shigenobu Kato, Ambassador of Japan, delivered a speech at the project launching by Kokkyo naki Kodomotachi (KnK/Children without Borders) for humanitarian and educational support for Jordanian and Iraqi youths in Al-Fuheis on 2 December 2007

H.E.Dr. Atef Odibat, the President of the Higher Council for Youth
H.E. Ambassador Sa’ad Hayani, Ambassador of Iraq to Jordan
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my pleasure to participate in this project launching ceremony of humanitarian and educational supports for Jordanian and Iraqi youths. The project is implemented by KnK, a Japanese NGO, which is the abbreviation of Kokkyo naki Kodomotachi meaning “children without borders” in Japanese. KnK is one of the most active Japanese NGOs in the field of education and humanitarian assistance.

The situation in Iraq continues to remain tense and of our concern, although I have received news that the situation has become improved during the last few months. However, an incessant violence keeps forcing Iraqi people to leave their country seeking safer places outside Iraq. I am particularly worried about the welfare of youth and children who are now experiencing difficulties, but will shoulder the future of Iraq as responsible citizens.

This project is to help these young people to tackle the difficulties they are facing through various activities. I believe that they can overcome their present hardship and can further contribute to the reconstruction of their country and to enhance peace in the region. I highly value Jordan’s generosity and willingness not only by receiving a large number of Iraqi people but also by providing them with essential services like health care and education, despite of all of the social and economic burden.

To join international efforts to help Jordan, Japan, on its part, has contributed around US$8.5 million dollars in 2007 by responding to the UNHCR’s emergency appeal to help Iraqi people in Jordan and Syria. Also, KnK and two other Japanese NGOs are working on the ground to help in alleviating suffering of both Jordanian and Iraqi vulnerable population within the framework of Japan Platform, which is Japan’s government-private funding consortium for NGOs. Japan will remain committed to its humanitarian assistance and will continue to do so.

Jordan and Iraq enjoy a good relationship as neighbors. I sincerely hope that this project will further promote the friendship between the youths of Jordan and those of Iraq and will contribute to enhancing bilateral relations between the two brother countries as well.

Finally, I would like to extend my highest appreciation to all officials and staff engaged in this project. I especially thank Mr. Ahmad Nawwaf Raji and his staff for their continuous support. I strongly believe that such efforts will definitely bear fruit.

I wish young people of Jordan and Iraq a great future. Thank you.

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