Yesterday, a Japanese volunteer showed me in Tokyo a new equipment that can identify plastic mines. This is being developed with civilian technology. While Japan maintains a strict control on arms exports, the government recently decided to make possible the provision of equipments or technologies necessary for humanitarian mine clearance. May. Japan believes that the experiences of the Cambodian Mine Action Centre can provide valuable know-how for other countries suffering from mines, and it intends to support the conference. In addition, in a follow-up to last year's meeting, the 2nd NGO Tokyo Conference will be held on January 31 and February 1 next year.
Japan looks forward to further growth of international cooperation at grass root level.
Mr. Chairman, A few weeks ago, I met Mr. Tun Channareth of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines. I also heard that one of the last bearers of the Olympic torch relay at Nagano Winter Olympics next February will be Mr. Chris Moon. Every time I think of the many victims of landmines who like these people have overcome their hardship to live with such vigor, I renew my determination to tackle the landmine problems. The opening for signature of the Ottawa Treaty is a vital step forward for the international community toward the goal of zero victim of landmines. The Treaty's signing should be a new starting point toward that end.