Un-authorized translation by Shapla Neer-Citizen’s Committee in Japan for Overseas Support

Development Cooperation Charter

DRAFT

Japan's Contribution to the Sustainable Development of a Free and Open World -I. Basic Concept
1. Purpose and Background(1) The international community is at a historical turning point and facing a complex of crises.
Climate change, infectious diseases, and other global issues are becoming more serious, and many
developing countries are suffering from slowing economic growth and economic disparities insideand outside of the countries. At the same time, the free and open international order andmultilateralism are being severely challenged by a changing balance of power and intensifying
geopolitical competition, which has led to unilateral actions to change the status quo through theuse of force, and the risk of a fractured international community is becoming increasingly serious.
This is a further blow to many developing countries, creating a complex crisis that combines energy
and food crises, inflation, debt crises, and humanitarian crises. The limits of the idea that
globalization and interdependence can lead to peace and development in the international
community are now increasingly evident.
(2) Dissatisfaction among developing countries caused by widening economic disparities and otherfactors is also creating new tensions in domestic and even interstate relations. While many
developing countries are trying to avoid being drawn into geopolitical competition, some are
sympathetic to moves that challenge the free and open international order. Thus, while various
risks around the world have a direct negative impact on the world as a whole, building a peaceful,stable, and prosperous international society under a free and open order is directly related toJapan's national interests.
(3) Today, more than ever, the international community is called upon to cooperate beyond
differences in values and conflicts of interest in order to overcome complex crises. At a time when
expectations for progress on development issues through international cooperation, such as theSustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement on climate change, have been
shaken, Japan, as a peaceful nation and a responsible major power, is in a position to lead suchinternational cooperation based on the principle of "human security". Amidst the complex
intertwining of conflict and cooperation in international relations, the role of development
cooperation in Japan's diplomatic efforts is of exceptional importance.
(4) Development financing needs are enormous. While the emergence of emerging donor countries
has provided a certain level of supplement to the demand for funds, there have been cases ofassistance that has not led to independent and sustainable growth of developing countries, such as
debt problems in some developing countries caused by loans that do not give sufficientconsideration to debt sustainability. In order for developing countries to achieve self-sustained andsustainable growth, the international community as a whole needs to develop cooperative
development cooperation based on transparent and fair rules. In addition, as the inflow ofprivate-sector funds to developing countries has greatly surpassed official development assistance(ODA) and other forms of public funding, and as various actors such as the private sector, civil
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society, and international organizations are playing important roles, it is becoming more important
to work with these actors and mobilize new sources of funding.
(5) At this historical turning point, the role that development cooperation should play, as well as
development issues and methods, are changing. Therefore, the Development Cooperation Charter,
which was established in 2015, will be revised in light of the National Security Strategy formulated
in December 2022, and development cooperation, one of the most important tools of Japan's
diplomacy, will be utilized more effectively and strategically.
(6) This charter consists of the following elements. First, the objectives of Japan's development
cooperation and the basic policy on which Japan's development cooperation stands are presented.
Next, we will present the priority policies that Japan's development cooperation should address.
Then, it presents the approach that Japan should take for effective and strategic implementation ofdevelopment cooperation, the principles for ensuring adequacy, and the implementation system andfoundation.
(7) For the purpose of this charter, development cooperation refers to "international cooperation
activities by government and government-related organizations whose primary objective is thedevelopment of developing regions" and is treated as a broad concept that includes peacebuilding,governance, promotion of fundamental human rights, and humanitarian assistance. In addition,
ODA and other public funds (OOF) and private funds (PF) should be strengthened to enhancesynergies for development.

2. Purpose of Development Cooperation(1) Since joining the Colombo Plan in 1954, Japan has consistently performed development
cooperation in pursuit of peace and prosperity in the international community. Japan itself has
recovered from World War II with support from the international community and achieved rapid
economic growth. Japan has been working to help developing countries build a foundation fordevelopment through distinctive cooperation, utilizing the knowledge, experience, technology, andlessons learned in the process, as well as to solve global issues and create an international
environment for smooth economic and social activities that transcend national borders. These
efforts over the past 70 years have embodied Japan's role as a responsible major power, and have
led to the strengthening of Japan's credibility and soft power.
(2) In addition, Japan's contribution to the stability and development of developing countries
through development cooperation and its efforts to build a peaceful, stable, and prosperous
international community have led to the protection of the lives of Japanese citizens living as
members of the international community and to the realization of prosperity.
(3) In today's era of complex crises, Japan cannot cope with various challenges alone. It is also
Japan's responsibility as a responsible major power to cooperate with developing countries andwork together to address development issues and global challenges that are becoming increasingly
complex and serious. In this context, the building of a peaceful, stable, and prosperous
international society with developing countries under a free and open international order based on2

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the rule of law, and the persistent building of trusting relationships with more and more countries
will, in the end, promote Japan's own national interests.
(4) Based on the above, the objectives of Japan's development cooperation are as follows
a. Based on equal partnership with developing countries, to address together the development
challenges of developing countries and the resolution of global-scale issues common to all
humankind, and to contribute more actively to the formation of a peaceful, stable, and prosperous
international community under a free and open international order based on the rule of law.
b. At the same time, to contribute to the realization of Japan's national interests, such as securing
the peace and security of Japan and its people and achieving further prosperity through economic
growth, while maintaining and strengthening trust-based external relations by creating a favorable
international environment for Japan and the world.
(5) In doing so, we should be keenly aware of the fact that development cooperation is funded by the
public taxpayers' money and that development cooperation has had a positive effect in achieving theabove objectives, and we should implement development cooperation, one of the most important
tools of diplomacy, in a more strategic, effective and sustainable manner in order to create aninternational environment more favorable to the world and to Japan.

3. Basic Policy
Based on the philosophy and methods that Japan has developed over its long history ofdevelopment cooperation, and in order to further develop them, Japan's development cooperation is
guided by the following four basic policies.
(1) Contribution to peace and prosperity
Japan's development cooperation, which has contributed to solving development issues indeveloping countries and global issues common to all humankind through non-military cooperation,is one of the most appropriate international contributions for a peaceful nation that sincerely seeks
peace and prosperity in the international community. Japan will continue to adhere to thiscommitment and actively contribute to ensuring peace and prosperity in the international
community.
(2) "Human security" in the new era
a. The concept of human security, which is to build a nation and society so that each individual can
live happily and with dignity, free from fear and deficiency, is fundamental to the way Japan shouldbe, embodying the noble ideals and principles of human nature, and is also in line with values suchas freedom, democracy, respect for fundamental human rights, and the rule of law. It is also
connected to the values of freedom, democracy, respect for fundamental human rights, and the ruleof law. Japan will continue to position human security as the guiding principle underlying all of its
development cooperation.
b. In order to realize human security in the new era, it remains important to build strong andresilient nations and societies through "investment in people" (i.e., protection and empowerment of3

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individuals) and people-centered development. In addition, in times of multiple crises, issues are
becoming increasingly complex and intertwined, and it is essential that diverse actors work
together in solidarity to achieve common goals. Japan will make the protection and empowermentof individuals and the solidarity of various actors the pillars of "human security" in the new era, andwill conduct development cooperation with a focus on self initiative of individual.
(3) Co-creation of social value through dialogue and collaboration with developing countries
a. Aiming at self-reliant development through support for the self-help efforts of developing
countries, Japan has a good tradition of development cooperation in the spirit of persistently
building up together what suits the other country through dialogue and collaboration based on afield-oriented approach, and in the process building a two-way relationship in which both sides
learn from each other on equal terms.
b. In the current era of complex crises, with a mountain of new issues for which no clear solutions
have been found, it is necessary to create new solutions together through dialogue and collaboration,with the partner country at the core, involving a variety of actors, each bringing their strengths
under an equal partnership. Japan aims to create new value through such "co-creation," drawing
on its tradition of supporting self-help efforts, dialogue, and collaboration.
c. In addition, by passing the new solutions and social values created in this way on to Japan, andby fostering the next generation of human resources in Japan and developing countries throughthese efforts, we aim to solve the economic and social problems that Japan itself faces, and toachieve economic growth.
(4) Leading dissemination and implementation of international rule and policy based on
inclusiveness, transparency and fairness
Japan's development cooperation consistently emphasizes inclusiveness, transparency, and fairness.
In order to address complex issues in cooperation with various actors, it is essential to have rules
and guidelines that serve as a common foundation for all parties involved in development
cooperation. In order to solve issues in a coordinated manner as the international community,
Japan will lead the dissemination and implementation of rules and guidelines for development
cooperation based on inclusiveness, transparency, and fairness, and will develop cooperation basedon such rules and guidelines. In this way, we will realize cooperation that does not involve debt
traps or economic coercion, and that does not undermine the independence and sustainability ofdeveloping countries.

II. Priority Policies
Japan's development cooperation will address the following priority policies. In order to implement
these priority policies effectively, strategically, and flexibly, while paying attention to theirinterrelationships, Japan will establish regional and country-specific development cooperation
policies.

1. Poverty Eradication

through "High Quality Growth" in the New Era
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Un-authorized translation by Shapla Neer-Citizen’s Committee in Japan for Overseas Support(1) Based on the concept that "nation-building is people-building," Japan has been striving toachieve economic growth by developing human resources, high quality infrastructure, legal systems,
etc., and by accelerating growth in the private sector. In doing so, Japan has aspired to achieve oneof the most fundamental development challenges, namely, poverty eradication, through "highquality growth". “High-quality growth" refers to growth that is "inclusive," in which the fruits ofgrowth are distributed throughout society and no one is left behind; "sustainable," in which theeconomy, society, and environment are in harmony across generations; and "resilient," in that it isresistant and resilient to various shocks, including natural disasters and economic crises.
(2) In times of multiple crises, "high quality growth" is becoming increasingly important, as shown
below.
a. Inclusiveness: Infectious diseases, conflicts, and large-scale disasters have led to an increase in
the number of poor people in the world, as well as widening disparities and worsening
humanitarian situations in some countries. This has led to an increasing demand for support
towards vulnerable groups such as refugees, displaced persons, women, and minorities.
b. Sustainability: Climate change countermeasures, the global environment including oceans andbiodiversity, and energy and food supply stability are becoming more and more important issues interms of sustainability. At the same time, the deterioration of debt sustainability due to the increasein external debt and dependence on specific countries has become a more serious issue.
c. Resilience: It has become clear that weak supply chains can have a negative impact on various
sectors, such as healthcare, food prices, and industrial production. It is therefore necessary tofurther improve the resilience of the domestic economy by enhancing the resilience of the free andopen international order and by diversifying the economy. Resilience is also needed against natural
disasters, which are becoming increasingly severe.
(3) Based on the above, Japan will work for "high quality growth" and poverty eradication throughboth cooperation to secure the basis and driving force for economic growth, and cooperation forpeople-centered development that supports people's basic livelihoods. In doing so, we will
particularly strengthen our efforts in the following areas, taking into account the changing
development challenges in times of complex crises.
a. Strengthening the autonomy and resilience of economies and societies, including food and energy
security: In order to strengthen the autonomy and resilience of economies and societies indeveloping countries, we will promote cooperation for strengthening and diversifying supply chains,
economic diversification, sustainable supply of resources, fostering and protecting technology,
improving investment environment, increasing food production, and improving nutrition. In
particular, the strengthening and diversification of supply chains, sustainable development of key
mineral resources, and stable supply and security of food are important issues not only for thesustainable growth of developing countries, but also for Japan. We will therefore actively support
the diversification of supply sources, human resource development, legal system development, andperipheral infrastructure development in these areas.

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b. Digital technology: Digital transformation (DX) is directly related to all development issues andis the key to achieving "high quality growth”. In addition to promoting reliable and free data
distribution, efforts will be made to solve issues through the promotion of data utilization and social
implementation of digital technologies. At the same time, we will address the digital divide andvulnerabilities (cyber security) caused by the development of digital technology.
c. High-quality infrastructure: Developing countries continue to have enormous demand forinfrastructure. Japan has strengths in maritime and aviation safety management, disasterprevention and resilience technologies, urban development that adapts to climate change and theenvironment, safe and secure transportation systems, and water supply. To leverage thesestrengths to solve social issues in partner countries, we will combine infrastructure developmentwith soft aspects of cooperation, such as the development of institutional plans, involvement in
operation and maintenance, and connectivity through human resource development. In doing so, wewill promote the development of"high-quality infrastructure" that is transparent, open,

economical in terms of life cycle costs, and sustainable in terms of debt obligations.

2. Realizing a peaceful, secure, and stable society; maintaining and strengthening afree and open international order based on the rule of law(1) Achieving peaceful, secure, and stable societies in developing countries and maintaining andstrengthening a free and open international order based on the rule of law are preconditions forachieving "high quality growth" in developing countries.
(2) In recent years, however, developing countries' peaceful, secure, and stable societies have been
threatened by renewed peace and stability problems associated with geopolitical tensions, moves
against democratization and the protection of human rights, piracy and terrorism, and other factors.
These threats can render years of development efforts irrelevant in an instant. In order to realize"human security," Japan will comprehensively address the various causes of conflict and instability,
and will provide seamless support for peacebuilding, paying attention to the humanitarian,development, and peace nexus. In doing so, Japan will also cooperate with international peacecooperation activities such as UN peacekeeping operations (PKO), as appropriate. In addition,
Japan will provide assistance to ensure social security and stability, including capacity building of
law enforcement agencies, such as coast guards, and ensuring maritime security, including
counter-terrorism and anti-piracy measures. Furthermore, Japan will provide support for thedevelopment of legal systems, including drafting of laws and regulations, institutional development,
and human resource development, in order to establish the rule of law, realize good governance,
promote and entrench democratization, and respect fundamental human rights in each country.
Japan will also strengthen its efforts to contribute to the dissemination and implementation oftransparent and fair rules for development finance. Furthermore, in the event of emergencies suchas natural disasters, prompt and effective emergency humanitarian assistance, includinginternational emergency aid, will be provided.
(3) In addition, efforts to make a free and open international order based on the rule of law, and to
make multilateralism the common ground of the international community, are becoming
increasingly important in order to prevent the division of the international community, to create a6

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larger market, and to share the fruits of economic development among many countries. In thisregard, we will work to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order based on therule of law, especially under the “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)” vision, and cooperate with
developing countries to enable them to proactively engage in and enjoy the fruits of this order.

3. Leading international efforts to address increasingly complex and serious global
issues(1) Infectious diseases, climate change, and other challenges that transcend national borders andare shared by all humankind tend to have a significant impact on the international community as awhole, causing harm to many people, especially those in vulnerable developing countries, the poor,and other vulnerable groups. The SDGs, which set out challenges and targets to be met by theinternational community as a whole by 2030, are experiencing delays in progress due to multiple
crises.
(2) In light of the above, Japan will continue to cooperate with vulnerable countries and regions byorganically linking both bilateral and multilateral development cooperation. We will also driveinternational cooperation and strengthen comprehensive efforts to solve global issues byaccelerating efforts to achieve the SDGs. This will be based on the principle of "human security”,
which includes the following:a. Climate Change and Environment: Climate change is a threat to sustainable development in all
countries of the world. In order to align Japan's development cooperation with the goals of the Paris
Agreement and to improve the ability of developing countries to cope with climate change, Japan
will promote support for both mitigation measures (e.g., reduction and absorption of greenhousegases) and adaptation measures (e.g., avoidance and reduction of damage caused by climatechange), thereby contributing to both addressing the development challenges of developing
countries and promoting climate change measures. To this end, we will further promote themobilization of private-sector funds and cooperation with international organizations to expand thescale of international assistance. Recognizing that the preservation of the global environment is our
responsibility for the future of the earth, we will strengthen our efforts to protect the naturalenvironment, including the marine environment, forests, and water resources, by mainstreaming
biodiversity, taking measures against plastic pollution, etc.
b. Health: Based on the Global Health Strategy, we will contribute to the establishment of a global
health architecture, strengthen prevention, preparedness, and response to future public healthcrises, and promote more resilient, equitable, and sustainable UHC (Universal Health Coverage)
through strengthening health systems in developing countries, including health human resource
development. Universal Health Coverage (UHC) will be promoted through strengthening healthsystems in developing countries, including the development of human resources in the healthsector.
c. Disaster Risk Reduction: Disaster Risk Reduction efforts are indispensable for poverty
eradication and sustainable development. In the midst of concerns about the frequency and severityof disasters due to climate change, cooperation will be promoted based on the Sendai Framework for7

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Disaster Reduction and by taking advantage of Japan's expertise in disaster prevention anddisaster mitigation.
d. Education: Education is extremely important as it is considered as "investment in people",
which is essential for promoting "human security,". We will continue to strongly promote education,
taking into account the perspectives of quality education for all, women's empowerment, andsecuring educational opportunities in conflict situations.
(3) Addressing global issues requires the cooperation of the international community as a whole,including developed countries, emerging countries, and developing countries. In this context,
setting challenges and rules in the international arena is particularly important. We will contribute
more actively to rule-making in areas such as international health and the environment, and lead
discussions on strengthening domestic resource mobilization, expanding the donor base, reforminginternational development finance institutions, and considering new fund mobilization methods. In
addition, we will actively contribute to international discussions on post-2030 development goals, incooperation with other countries.

III. Implementation
1. Three evolving approaches for effective and strategic development cooperation
In order to maximize effectiveness in realizing the aforementioned objectives and promoting
priority policies, the Development Cooperation will take the following measures.
(1) Solidarity to realize co-creation
In an era of complex and intertwined development issues for which no one has a clear solution,
co-creation is required, in which various actors bring their strengths together and work together tocreate solutions through dialogue and collaboration under a common goal. Japan's development
cooperation aims to set development issues by utilizing Japan's experience, knowledge, and lessons
learned, and to form and utilize development platforms that involve various actors, with developing
countries at the core, and to strongly support the solutions created there through the mobilizationof diverse resources, including financial resources. In addition, we will promote the expansion of awide range of ODA-related funding sources. In this regard, we will strengthen solidarity with thefollowing partners.
a. Private sector
The efforts of the private sector are playing an increasingly important role in solving development
issues and achieving sustainable growth in developing countries. With the adoption of the SDGs,
economic, environmental, and social issues have been integrated, and corporate value can be linked
to SDG initiatives. As a result, many private-sector companies and investors have become moreproactive in addressing development issues and promoting the finance to realize the sustainable
society (sustainable finance). In response, the importance of private finance for developing
countries has been increasing, and the use of private finance with development benefits, such as
impact investment and ESG investment, has become an international trend. In light of these trends,
Japan will continue to promote conventional public-private partnerships, as well as development8

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cooperation to involve the private sector, including start-ups and Small and Medium Enterprises(SMEs), in development platforms and link them to the development issues of developing countries.
Specifically, in order to promote impact investment, ESG investment, blended finance, etc., we willbuild economic infrastructure in developing countries, provide training and study abroad programsfor private-sector human resources, support the development of legal systems, present development
models, and strategically utilize public funds, including overseas investments and loans.
b. Public financial institution
In light of the growing importance of effectively combining both ODA and OOF for the developmentof developing countries, we will coordinate the institutions dealing with ODA funds and OOF fordeveloping countries such as the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), Nippon Export
and Investment Insurance (NEXI), Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation forTransport and Urban Development (JOIN), Fund Corporation for the Overseas Development ofJapan’s ICT and Postal Services Inc. (JICT) and Japan Organization for Metals and Energy(JOGMEC), etc. and promote development cooperation in cooperation with private sector funds,
while organically combining various schemes of the government and government-relatedorganizations to enhance synergy effects.
c. Like-minded countries
We will evolve the sharing and cooperation of knowledge and resources with countries that sharethe same objectives and principles of development cooperation, regardless of whether they aredeveloped or developing countries. In addition, we will deepen cooperation for the implementationand dissemination of rules and standards for development cooperation, and for the maintenanceand strengthening of a free and open international order based on the rule of law. We will promote
multilayered multilateral cooperation, including South-South cooperation and triangularcooperation initiatives, to provide developing countries with a variety of options.
d. International organization and regional organization
International organizations have strengths in expertise, neutrality, and access to conflict areas, etc.,
while regional organizations have strengths in resolving issues that are appropriate to the region
and in broad-based initiatives. In the field of bilateral cooperation, by strengthening cooperation
with international and regional organizations, we aim to cooperate in areas and regions that are
difficult to access, to create synergies by combining bilateral cooperation, and to utilize their
specialized knowledge and experience. In addition, taking into account that internationalorganizations play an important role in setting issues and creating international norms, Japan will
deepen cooperation through contributions based on its experience and knowledge, and strengthen
its involvement in decision-making in international organizations by making effective contributions
to international organizations and increasing the number of Japanese staff, including senior
officials. With regard to international development finance institutions, we will promote discussions
on their reform and strengthen cooperation, including co-financing, taking into account theimportance of their financial resources and the role they play in creating international norms.
e. Civil society
Civil society, including NGOs, is expanding its presence in development cooperation, including9Un-authorized translation by Shapla Neer-Citizen’s Committee in Japan for Overseas Support

humanitarian assistance, in various parts of the world through prompt cooperation that is attuned
to local needs. Japan will position civil society as our strategic partner in development cooperation,
and will strive to provide more effective cooperation by utilizing the expertise of civil society to meetthe needs of populations that are difficult to reach through bilateral assistance between
governments. We will support the capacity building of Japan's civil society and further strengthen
development cooperation implemented through Japan's civil society.
f. Local government
The experience and know-how of local governments, which are the main providers of basic
administrative services, can be applied to developing countries. Therefore, efforts should be made topromote and support the participation of local governments in development cooperation projects. At
the same time, while making maximum use of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
domestic offices and the experiences of JICA’s Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers, we will also
link the human resources and knowledge fostered through development cooperation to the solutionof Japan's problems, such as regional development.
g. University and research institution
In addition to seeking new solutions to development issues in developing countries by promoting
cooperation with universities and research institutions, we will promote the international brain
circulation through exchanges and joint research between students and researchers fromdeveloping countries and Japan, improve the scientific and technological capabilities of bothcountries, and disseminate Japan's development experience, such as modernization and economic
development, etc.
h. Pro-Japanese, Japanophile and people of Japanese descent
The human resources of the "pro-Japanese" and "Japanophile" around the world, who have been
nurtured through Japan's meticulous human resource development efforts, are important humanassets who share Japanese culture and values. In addition, people of Japanese descent communities
abroad form the foundation of strong ties with Japan, and contribute widely to the local
communities of each country. By utilizing these assets, we will further strengthen the multilayered
network of human resources based on trust.
(2) Further strengthening of strategic nature
In order to further strengthen the strategic nature of Japan's development cooperation, it isimportant to focus on policy formulation in light of the aforementioned objectives and priority
policies, strengthen consistency between policy and implementation, and develop active cooperationthat leverages Japan's strengths, while utilizing limited resources. From this perspective, thefollowing efforts will be made.
a. Strengthening consistency of policy and implementation(a) In formulating policy, we must fully recognize that development cooperation is one of the mostimportant tools of foreign policy, which requires strategic and flexible responses in light ofever-changing international circumstances, and we must give it the necessary emphasis in lightof the aforementioned objectives and priority policy promotion.
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Un-authorized translation by Shapla Neer-Citizen’s Committee in Japan for Overseas Support(b) In implementing ODA, the government and implementing agencies will work together tomaximize the development impact by effectively utilizing the three ODA schemes (grant aid,
technical cooperation, and loan aid (yen loans and overseas investment and loans)), as well as bycombining bilateral cooperation and cooperation through international organizations and NGOs
in an optimal manner through solidarity with various actors on a development platform. In
addition, follow-up will be conducted to ensure that each project is widely recognized by thegovernment and public of the partner country over a long period of time and is properly
evaluated after the completion of the project.
(c) In evaluation and improvement, in addition to maximizing the effectiveness and efficiency ofcooperation, and taking into account the importance of fulfilling accountability to the public, theresults and effects (outcomes) of development cooperation should be set at the policy and projectlevels and evaluated appropriately using quantitative data too, while paying attention to theneed for flexible and timely response to changing international circumstances. The evaluation
results will be appropriately fed back to the policy-making process and project implementation to
improve the quality of the projects.
(d) Strategic coherence should be ensured in the policy planning, implementation, evaluation,and improvement (PDCA) cycle for the above development cooperation.
b. Cooperation based on Japan's strengths(a) The human resources, knowledge, high-quality technical capabilities, and institutions thatJapan has developed through its democratic economic development while respecting its own
traditions are assets for development cooperation, and we will conduct development cooperation
utilizing these strengths.
(b) Japan has consistently emphasized "investment in people" through the acceptance of foreign
students and trainees and the dispatch of experts to convey its technologies and know-how, andhas made efforts to develop human resources with attention to detail, for which developing
countries have high expectations. In order to be a "country of choice" for study and training indeveloping countries, we will continue to enhance our study and training programs, including
those for private sector personnel as well as government officials, to systematically acquire
Japanese experience useful for developing countries and to develop human resources indeveloping countries who can become local partners of Japanese companies. We will positively
learn from each other, create new value, and give back to their respective economies andsocieties through collaboration between private-sector human resources in developing countries
and Japanese companies, which is followed by the new generation prosperity.
(c) Japan's advanced technological capabilities and science and technology remain a greatstrength. On the other hand, as the technologies of emerging and developing countries develop
and their needs diversify, it is more important to implement value-added development
cooperation that combines high-quality hardware cooperation, such as the provision of materials
and equipment and construction of facilities, with software cooperation, including involvementin operation and maintenance, institution building, and human resource development. In light of
this, it is becoming more important to implement value-added development cooperation thatcombines involvement in operation and maintenance, and soft cooperation, including
institutional development and human resource development. Based on this, while utilizing newsocial values and solutions generated through co-creation, we will organically combine various
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schemes such as ODA and OOF to enhance synergies, create an attractive support menu thatleverages Japan's strengths, and strengthen offer-type cooperation by actively presenting
proposals from Japanese side to partner countries.
(d) Furthermore, JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers, who live and think together, are a
bridge between Japan and developing countries at the grassroots level, and we will continue topromote them as a form of cooperation that is unique to Japan.
(3) Detailed System Design Consistent with Objective
Based on the above, we will work tirelessly to design a detailed system that includes the following.
a. Flexible and efficient cooperation in accordance with development needs(a) The above-mentioned sustainable finance efforts by the private sector will be encouraged, andthe system will be constantly improved so that the cooperation necessary for co-creation can be
carried out effectively and efficiently in both financial and technical cooperation, including themobilization of private-sector funds for development.
(b) Necessary cooperation, including grant aid and technical cooperation, in accordance with theactual development needs and bearing capacity of each country will be utilized strategicallytowards countries with relatively high income levels with per capita gross national income above
a certain level including countries falling into the so-called "middle-income country trap" andcountries with special vulnerabilities such as small island developing states.
(c) In emergency humanitarian assistance, even in situations where intergovernmental
assistance is difficult, decision-making should be expedited and a wide range of
non-governmental partners should be utilized to ensure that assistance reaches those most in
need in a timely and reliable manner. In addition, taking into account international trends, wewill incorporate high-quality and flexible contributions where necessary, and where appropriate,
we will promote efforts to increase effectiveness and efficiency by such as cash transfers etc.
through international organizations and NGOs. Furthermore, JICA will improve its methods ofproviding emergency humanitarian assistance, including the application of the International
Emergency Relief Teams Act, so that Japan can provide flexible and visible assistance in terms ofhuman, material, and financial resources. We will continue to adopt effective and efficientmethods based on international trends.
b. Prompt implementation of cooperation in accordance with the needs of the times
In light of the need for cooperation to respond to the rapidly changing international situation and tocooperate with fast-moving private investments, we will improve the system to enable prompt
decision-making and implementation of cooperation as necessary, while ensuring proper execution.

2. Principles on Ensuring the Appropriateness of Development Cooperation
From the perspective of ensuring the appropriateness of development cooperation, development
cooperation should be implemented based on a comprehensive assessment of the partner country's
development needs, economic and social conditions, and bilateral relations, while always taking
into account the following principles.
(1) Situation of promoting consolidation of democratization, rule of law and security of fundamental
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human rights
From the perspective of promoting the consolidation of democratization, the rule of law, and respect
for fundamental human rights in developing countries, due attention should be paid to the situation
surrounding democratization, the rule of law, and the guarantee of fundamental human rights inthe countries concerned.
(2) Avoidance of use for military purposes and contribution to international conflicts
In implementing development cooperation, use for military purposes and contribution tointernational conflicts should be avoided. When development cooperation for non-military purposessuch as civilian purposes or disaster relief involves the military forces of the counterpart country or
persons with military status, the practical significance of such cooperation should be considered ona case-by-case basis.
(3) Military expenditure, development and manufacture of weapons of mass destruction andmissiles, and import/export of weapons
In order to maintain and strengthen international peace and stability by preventing theproliferation of terrorism and weapons of mass destruction, and from the perspective thatdeveloping countries should allocate their domestic resources appropriately and preferentially for
their own economic and social development, the committee will pay close attention to trends inmilitary expenditures, development and production of weapons of mass destruction and missiles,
and import and export of weapons in the countries concerned.
(4) Influence on environment and climate change associated with development
In order to balance the environment and development, and to achieve sustainable development,
including the promotion of decarbonization, due attention should be paid to the various
environmental impacts associated with development and climate change measures.
(5) Debt sustainability
In order to make the economic and social development of developing countries sustainable in themedium and long term, development cooperation shall be provided with due consideration to thesustainability of the debt of the countries concerned and to strengthen it.
(6) Promotion of inclusive societies, including gender mainstreaming and ensuring fairness Gendermainstreaming will be promoted at all stages of development cooperation, and development
cooperation will be carried out with due consideration to ensure fairness in order to promote diverse
and inclusive societies where all people can benefit from development, including children, persons
with disabilities, the elderly, ethnic minorities and indigenous people, and other socially vulnerable
groups.
(7) Prevention of corruption
In the implementation of development cooperation, it is necessary to prevent corruption. While
taking measures to contribute to the establishment of a legal compliance system in the contracting
company, we will cooperate with the counterpart country and together foster an environment toprevent corruption, including strengthening governance in the counterpart country. From this13Un-authorized translation by Shapla Neer-Citizen’s Committee in Japan for Overseas Support

perspective, we will ensure proper procedures and transparency in the implementation process.
(8) Ensuring safety of personnel involved
From the perspective of ensuring the safety of personnel involved in development cooperation, we
will pay sufficient attention to strengthening safety management capabilities, collecting
information on security, implementing safety measures, and ensuring the safety of related
personnel during construction work. In particular, when cooperating in areas where political andsecurity conditions are unstable, such as in peacebuilding, we will take all possible measures toensure the safety of the people involved by implementing sufficient safety measures and systems ona regular basis, and by evacuating the people involved promptly and conducting emergency support
activities at the site in the event of a crisis.

3. Strengthen System and Foundation of Implementation
Keeping in mind the international target of 0.7% of ODA as a percentage of gross national income(GNI), and taking into account Japan's extremely severe fiscal situation, we will expand ODA invarious ways based on 1. and 2. above and make necessary efforts to strengthen the implementation
foundation of development cooperation. At the same time, as the division of roles between the public
and private sectors in development cooperation is changing, we will pursue more effective
development cooperation with various partners by promoting the mobilization of private-sector
funds, including strengthening cooperation with the private sector and government agencies
handling OOF.
(1) In promoting development cooperation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), which is
responsible for coordinating the planning and formulation of development cooperation policies, willplay a central role in strengthening cooperation among relevant ministries and agencies. In
addition, the government, including MOFA, will present policies, and JICA and other implementing
agencies will implement projects in line with those policies, thereby further strengthening theconsistency between policy and implementation. In particular, collaboration between diplomatic
missions abroad and JICA country offices will be promoted. Further efforts will be made to improvethe capacity, systems, and institutions of both the government and implementing agencies.
(2) Human and intellectual foundationa. Continue to strengthen the personnel structure of the government and implementing agencies
involved in development cooperation. In particular, we will collaborate with industry, government,
and academia to secure and develop human resources with advanced knowledge in new
development issues such as DX, Green Transformation (GX), public finance, and finance formobilizing private-sector funds. In these areas, international brain circulation with developing
countries and feedback of cooperation results to Japan will also be promoted. In addition to MOFA
and JICA, we will promote the development of international human resources with expertise in
consultants, researchers, universities, students, private companies, civil society, etc., and strive toexpand opportunities and develop systems and structures for such human resources to play anactive role in Japan and abroad.
b. In addition, in order to lead international discussions such as rule-making on development
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cooperation, Japan will promote policy research and networking between Japan and partners suchas universities and research institutes in Japan and abroad, and strengthen the intellectual
foundation.
(3) Social infrastructure (including information disclosure, overseas public relations anddevelopment education)a. Public understanding and support are indispensable for the implementation of development
cooperation, and JICA's domestic offices should be utilized in cooperation with local governments
and JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers to explain the meaning and results of development
cooperation and its evaluation by the international community in an easy-to-understand anddetailed manner to a wide range of citizens. At the same time, information on the implementation
status and evaluation of development cooperation should be disclosed to the public in a timely
manner and with sufficient transparency. In addition, we will actively promote Japan's
development cooperation abroad to increase the recognition and understanding of Japan's
development cooperation and its achievements in the international community, including
developing countries.
b. Promote development education through school education and social education. People's daily
lives and economic activities are based on interdependence with the international community,
including developing countries. Through development education, we will nurture the ability ofpeople of all ages to think and act on their initiative on various development issues.

4. Report on the progress of implementation of the Development Cooperation Charter
The implementation status of the charter will be clarified in the "White Paper on Development
Cooperation," which is reported annually to the Cabinet Meeting.

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