UN General Assembly
2012

that disputes should be settled in a peaceful manner on the basis of international law. In all circumstances, Japan is determined to comply with that principle and seek peaceful solutions based on international law. The world should pay greater attention to the role the international judicial institutions play in the peaceful settlement of disputes. Although the Middle East and Africa are still in a tumultuous whirlwind, they are in fact moving in the direction of establishing democracy. Japan will continue to support efforts at democratization and reform of every country. Moreover, we cannot overlook the ongoing violence and suppression in Syria, or the serious violations of human rights with respect to the rule of law. Japan strongly condemns the massive attacks in Syria that have involved tens of thousands of innocent citizens, journalists and aid workers, including Ms. Mika Yamamoto, a Japanese journalist. Japan intends to put more pressure on the Government of Syria, together with the international community, and to extend humanitarian assistance to the people of Syria. Let me emphasize that the international community