The UN crime congress has kicked off in the Japanese city of Kyoto with thorough anti-coronavirus measures in place.

The UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice is the first large-scale international conference to be held in the country since the outbreak began.

On Sunday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres took part in the opening session online.

Guterres said that disruption caused by the pandemic is presenting criminals with new opportunities. He called for bolstering international cooperation to pave the way to a world of justice and integrity.

Japan's Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide said the pandemic has caused serious problems including the grave threat of cyberattacks and online fraud.

He said the international community needs to work together to strengthen efforts in crime prevention and ensure a criminal justice system that is fully functional even in such a crisis.

Japan's Justice Minister Kamikawa Yoko who is serving as the chair called on the participants to discuss how to create a society where the rule of law is upheld.

The conference adopted the Kyoto Declaration, which underlines the need to promote digitalization of criminal justice systems and develop partnerships with community volunteers.

About 160 people, including delegates from 13 countries and UN officials, have been allowed to enter Japan as an exception to the country's coronavirus entry restrictions.

As part of anti-infection measures, they have to stay at designated hotels, and are not allowed in principle to go outside the hotels and the venue.

All participants, including those from Japan, are also required to take PCR tests. Hand shaking is prohibited at the conference site and doctors are on standby at all times.

The conference runs through Friday.

Source: ANNnewsCH