Japan reaffirms UN-led multilateralism to Guterres

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held talks with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in Tokyo on Monday, reaffirming that Japan’s support for a multilateral system led by the United Nations is unwavering.

Guterres praises Japan’s moral authority

According to Jiji Press, Guterres commended Japan’s contributions to development cooperation and nuclear non-proliferation, stating that the country’s moral authority is “extremely important” at this moment in history. The UN chief is on a four-day visit to Japan running from Sunday to Wednesday.

Call for visible multilateral action

Earlier on Monday, Guterres spoke at an event titled “Celebrating 70: Japan-UN Cooperation, Expo 2025 & the Future of Multilateralism,” where he stressed that multilateralism must be made visible in action for ordinary people. He highlighted the importance of communication, partnerships, and shaping the future through co-creation. “The future of multilateralism will be secured by courage, reform and delivery,” he said, adding that institutions must reflect today’s world rather than “the world of eighty years ago” and require financing that matches ambitions.

Reform of Security Council and financial systems

Guterres explicitly called for reforming global institutions, including the UN Security Council and the international financial architecture. “This is fundamental to enhance effectiveness and legitimacy in addressing today’s complex and multipolar world,” he said. His remarks align with growing calls from emerging powers, which has long advocated for a more representative Security Council under the slogan “the world is bigger than five.”