The United States has decided to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) itself. Japan has consistently attached great importance to upholding the rule of law in the international community and supports international courts and tribunals that play a role in this regard, including the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the ICC, and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). The measures are incompatible with Japan's consistent position, and Japan is deeply concerned about them. At the same time, in order for the ICC to fulfill its role and functions as originally envisaged and to gain the trust of the international community as a universal court, it is important that the ICC and its States Parties address the challenges facing the Court, so that the Court is administered appropriately. As a State Party, Japan will continue to steadily fulfill its role, participating in relevant discussions. Furthermore, in light of Japan's position, we have exchanged views with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and agreed to maintain close communication going forward. Even in these difficult circumstances, we will continue to reach out to the United States, maintain communication with President Akane of the ICC as well as related countries, and work toward strengthening the rule of law in the international community.