Preparatory Commission: Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (Third Session, 21st plenary meeting, followed by an informal working group meeting) General Assembly Date: 25 March 2026 Language: English Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/ar/asset/k1v/k1vrotehhh?lang=en Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations. --- PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [16:57]: Distinguished delegates, this morning we will resume our meeting in plenary for a presentation by China of its offer to host the Secretariat established under the agreement, followed by the oral reports on the discussions held yesterday under item 5 of the agenda. Afterwards, we will resume the consideration of item 5 of our agenda in parallel meetings in this conference room. We will continue our discussions regarding arrangements for the functioning of the Secretariat, and time permitting, we will move to consider the draft text of potential terms of reference for the Voluntary Trust Fund with a view to completing a full reading of the draft text in Conference Room 11. Deliberations will continue on the rules of procedure for the Conference of the Parties. Distinguished Delegates, we shall now proceed to hear the presentation from the delegation of the People's Republic of China of its offer to host the seat of the Secretariat established under Article 50 of the agreement. The delegation of China will have 20 minutes for its presentation and this will be followed by a 10 minute question and answer segment during which the delegation of China will respond to questions that other delegations may wish to raise. I am pleased to now invite Her Excellency Hua Chingying, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Foreign affairs of the People's Republic of China, to deliver the presentation. Your Excellency, you have the floor. China · Vice Minister, MFA · Hua Chingying [18:52]: Dear Co Chairs, Excellencies, colleagues. The Chinese government attaches great importance to the bid for the BBNG Secretariat. You see, we have a bid delegation today from the Ministry of Foreign affairs, the Ministry of Natural Resources, Fujian Province and the city of Xiaming. It's a clear demonstration of the Chinese government's full support for the bid. Foreign Minister Wang Yi could not be here due to a prior commitment. He has recorded a video message. Please watch. China · Foreign Minister · Wang Yi [19:23]: Distinguished Co Chairs, you, Excellencies, dear colleagues. The adoption and entry into force of the BB&J agreement marks a victory for multilateralism, an important milestone in global marine governance. Its full and effective implementation matters to the well being of all humanity. As such, we need a secretariat that fits the agreement's significance and potential. China is both willing and able to make major contributions to this effort. China is a steadfast supporter, defender and builder of the United Nations. As the first country to sign the UN Charter, China is now the second largest contributor to the UN regular budget. It always pays its dues on time and in full, and often goes beyond that. China is among the first to have signed the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and also one of the largest contributors to both the International Seabed Authority and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea. China stands ready to provide strong support for the implementation of the BB and J Agreement. In this fluid and turbulent world, China remains firm in upholding the central role of the UN and a strong pillar in defending multilateralism. Choosing China means choosing a future of greater certainty and stability. China has a long and rich maritime civilization. More than 600 years ago, the Chinese navigator Zheng he made seven voyages to the western seas, using the ocean as a bridge to build friendly ties with countries along the route. Today, China is committed to advancing a modernization characterized by harmony between humanity and nature. It is among the first of countries to have attained the UN Millennium Development Goal Goals and is now fully implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. China also played a key role in adopting the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and set a 3030 target. China always attaches equal importance to protecting the ocean and using it sustainably and is promoting joint efforts to build a community of all life on Earth. Choosing China means choosing a more comprehensive and effective implementation of the agreement to ensure the ocean's sustainable development for the good of all humanity. Colleagues the Asia Pacific is the world's most dynamic region. It has the longest coastline and the largest ocean economy and makes important contribution to global peace and development. Yet, to this day, not a single UN organization is headquartered in the Asia Pacific. China's bid to host the BBNG Secretariat in Xiamen reflects the sense of responsibility of a major developing country. This will help increase representation of the Global south and the Asia Pacific in global marine governance. Choosing China means choosing a more just and equitable global marine governance system. The Chinese government fully supports Xiamen's bid. It will provide robust policy and financial backing and highly competitive and convenient logistical support. I am confident that locating the Secretariat in Xiamen will make further major contribution to advancing global marine governance. China is ready. Xiamen is ready. We look forward to welcoming all of you in Xiamen. Thank you. China · Vice Minister, MFA · Hua Chingying [23:15]: Now, on behalf of the Chinese government, it is my great pleasure to present to you China's bid. I will proceed from three perspectives. Why China, why Xiamen and what can we offer? First, why China? China is a staunch supporter of the UN. As a founding member and one of the P5 countries, China has stood with the UN through strong commitment, action and contributions. China is now the second largest contributor to the UN regular budget and we take up our dues on time and in full. China is a member of almost all intergovernmental organizations and is a party to over 600 international conventions in the area of sustainable development. For example, China has provided US$200 million to set up the Chinayuan Peace and Development Fund as well as US$4 billion to set up Development and South South Cooperation Fund to support other developing countries in meeting the 2030 SDGs. In terms of marine development, China is the biggest contributor to the ISA and the ETLAS under enclos. We highly value the important role of the BBNJ in improving global marine governance and serving the common good of all humanity. China is among the first countries that have signed and ratified the BBNJ Agreement and we will continue to play a constructive role in its full and effective implementation. China has actively sought human ocean harmony. China has a long coastline and it is also one of the most biodiverse countries for marine species. We have gained rich experience in preserving and restoring marine ecosystems. Our Ecological Conservation REDLINE policy covers a total of 150,000 square kilometers and 353 MPAs have been set up. We have also initiated a voluntary fishing moratorium in high seas and have engaged constructively in setting up MPAs. We also take an active part in the events under the UN Ocean Decade and UN Science Decade. We attach high importance to innovation in marine science and technology. With our own scientific expertise, we have trained over 100,000 marine professionals from over 50 developing countries. Be it to the conservation or sustainable use of biodiversity, China is both capable and ready to play an important role. China is an important member of the Global south and the Asia Pacific. For historical reasons, Most of the UN's regional headquarters, specialized agencies and important treaty organizations are located in Europe. The Asia Pacific takes up 60% of the world's population, almost 60% of the world's GDP, and over 75% to the growth of the global marine economy. However, none of such organs sits in Asia. If Xiamen is chosen to host the BBNG Secretariat, it will be the first UN organization to be headquartered in the Asia Pacific. This will surely make global governance more just, equitable, balanced and beneficial for all. It will also facilitate the Global south and the Asia Pacific in making even greater contributions to global ocean governance. China is firmly committed to peaceful development, to the UN and to multilateralism. In a turbulent and changing world. China remains a staunch force for stability and certainty. We believe with progress in China's modernization, we will not only deliver a better life to our people, but but also contribute more to peace and development of the world. Just as Foreign Minister Wang Yi just pointed out, choosing China means choosing a future of greater certainty and stability. Second, why Xiamen? Xiamen is a typical garden city on the sea with advanced marine technology, vibrant ocean cooperation and exchanges and deep engagement with the world. Just like the BB&J, the city is fully committed to to marine sustainable development. Salmon has a superb ecological environment. It has won the UN Habitant scroll of Honor Award and the UN Biodiversity Charm City Award. It has 265 kilometers of beautiful coastline near its shores. A national Nature reserve for rare marine species have been established covering 70 square kilometers. It also one of the few areas in the world with a net increase in the mangrove forests. Strolling along the coastline, people can interact joyfully with Chinese white dolphins which is a unique sight of the city. Salmon's effective protection of the marine environment has been widely recognized by the world. It was picked as a case of excellence by the UN Development Program and the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Salmon has strong marine research capabilities. It is the birthplace of China's marine science and a marine research hub in the Asia Pacific. It brings together world class marine research institutions such as the SERT Institute of Oceanography, Xiamen University and Jimei University. Some 5,000 marine researchers drive innovation across 30 R&D platforms. Xiamen has also established the Marine Culture Collection of China, a major marine microbial resource repository. It also serves as a home port for several world class research vessels giving it the capacity for deep sea and offshore scientific surveys, data consolidation and application of research outcomes. Sanman is a key hub for International Marine Corporation. It hosts multilateral platforms such as the APAC Marine Sustainable Development center and the China ASEAN Marine Cooperation Center. In recent years, through programs such as the China Ocean Scholarship, it has trained over 7,000 marine research and professionals for developing countries. We also have the Global Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions Program initiated by Salmon University. It has the participation from 104 research institutions in 35 countries. Xiamen has also hosted the World Ocean Week for 20 years and organized over 40 international seminars on blue Carbon and other cutting edge topics. It has the participation from 130 countries and over 50 international organizations. Xiamen is an open and inclusive global city with diverse features. Xiamen has always been a key trading port and a vital hub along the ancient Maritime Silk Road. As one of China's first Special Economic Zones, China has established sister city relations with 42 cities and states and sister port relations with 19 world famous seaports. Xiamen Airlines is the first airline in the world to support UN SDGs. It operates direct flights to over 20 global aviation hubs with China's largest green and smart airport, Xiang' An International Airport putting into operation in Xiamen. By the end of this year, more international routes will Be open to connect Xiamen to other big cities. It will take you less than four hours to travel from Xiamen to the Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macau, Greater Bay Area and the Yangtze River Delta to world class city clusters by high speed trains. There are also many hospitals, international schools in Xiamen to provide modern high end services fully in keeping with international standards. We also have global companies in supply chains. Consumer goods and international technology make their home in Xiamen. With all these, the city offer highly efficient logistics, one stop international services and a modern lifestyle for all. Third, what can China offer? At previous sessions, many parties expressed their expectations for the BBJ Secretariat to function efficiently and to grow stronger. Here is our we will provide robust all round and modernized support that meets all your expectations in both the creation and operation of the Secretariat. We have a fully equipped state of the art office space for the Secretariat. There's a ready space in Xiamen's Central Business district by the sea. It is a 15 storey modern office building of 1200,000 square meters plus two sets of three story premium villas of 1500 square meters. There is also a complete set of modern office facilities. The Secretariat can move in and start working right away. We have ample room reserved for the Secretariat to take on more staff and for capacity building programs. We will also provide complete conference facilities for the Secretariat. Xiamen. The International Conference center in Xiamen is only 3 minutes walk away from the Secretariat building. It is 140,000 square meters with all sizes of meeting rooms that have modern audio visual equipment among which there are eight rooms each more than 2,000 square meters. Great for events, over 10,000 people. This will be very helpful when multiple events are going on at the same time in the Secretariat such as the COP meeting, bureau meetings, side events and bilateral consultations. We will provide strong financial support for the Secretariat to make it financially easier for parties. China will provide all the above mentioned office space and facilities for for free on a long term basis. We will offer office equipment necessary to begin operations and we will waive utility fees for the first five years put together. This could cut at least US$70 million for the secretariat. As the first step, China will give a US$3 million to the BB&J Trust Fund to help developing countries in attending meetings after the Secretariat opens in Xiamen. China will further contribute to the BB&J special Fund. We will provide ease of travel for Secretariat staff and delegates. China is now visa free for diplomatic passport holders from 160 countries, service passport holders from 139 countries and ordinary passport holders from 77 countries. The visa regime will be further liberalized. We will ensure privileges and immunities for the Secretariat, its staff and delegates in performing their duties. We will provide efficient and free visa services for Secretariat officials, their families and delegates. To sum up, we are offering first class facilities and services. Salmon will give everyone working and living there an experience of rich history, an experience of open generosity as well as next level professionalism coming from China's modernization. I now invite you to watch with us two videos. Speaker 5 [33:32]: This is the voice of the ocean soaring, resonant, echoing across the waves. This is the chorus of humankind steadfast, enduring in its strength. Together we join in a symphony's flow, Ocean and Humanity One Unified Song. With the BB&J, we embark on a new era of global ocean governance. In China. We believe in a future of human ocean harmony where people and the sea thrive as one along our coasts. We have established over 34050 Marine Protected Areas on the high seas. Our voluntary fishing moratoriums restore marine life globally. We are advancing the 2030 Agenda to foster a shared future for the planet through global blue partnerships. We join hands to preserve marine vitality. As CO lead of 10 major UN Ocean Decade programs, we have launched international expeditions, advanced marine science and strengthened worldwide collaboration with developing nations and global partners to understand, protect and sustain our ocean. As a key advocate, early signatory and state party to the BB&J agreement, we proudly propose Xiamen, China as the home of its Secretariat. Salmon is known as a garden city on the sea. A place where people and ocean meet in harmony. More than seven centuries ago, Marco Polo gazed upon these chores and marveled at the ships, the Silk, the tales of the maritime Silk Road. Today this city reaches across continents, its spirit shaped and its shores sustained by the sea. Here, we have never ceased to explore her depths, nor wavered in our pledge to protect her. For the BB&J Secretariat, we offer a vibrant home. A modern 15 storey smart office tower, two premium three story villas, an international conference center steps away and advanced facilities throughout. Supported by world class health care and education and embraced by charming cafes and restaurants. This is a space designed for dialogue, sharing and collaboration. Backed by the full commitment of a city ready to serve. Here, every voice will be heard, every nation welcomed, every mission strengthened by a shared devotion to the sea. Yet Xiamen is more than a place to work. It is a place to belong. Warm, welcoming, deeply livable, it offers not just a base, but a home. We invite you to Saman. Together let us write the next chapter of this symphony. One of human ocean harmony. For our ocean and for our future. Welcome to Java. Next station is Terminal Station. Oh, Money. Sam. Sa. China · Vice Minister, MFA · Hua Chingying [40:33]: Now, my colleagues and I are happy to take your questions. PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [40:39]: I thank the honorable Vice Minister for the presentation and I will now open the floor for questions. The distinguished representative of Pakistan has asked for the floor. Pakistan, the floor is yours. Pakistan [41:18]: Well, thank you, Vice Foreign Minister. From the People's Republic of China, I would like to express its solid support to China for hosting the Secretariat of BB and J. Xiamen is known for its open and inclusive spirit, flourishing blue economy, state of the art infrastructure and robust maritime research culture. If selected for hosting the BBJ and J Secretariat, the City can serve as an operational hub for implementing the BBJ Agreement and for enhancing the common well being of humanity. Selecting Xiamen for hosting the Secretariat will also be a befitting acknowledgment of China's persistent efforts for conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity, combating marine pollution and for its commitment to green shipping corridors. Pakistan therefore would like to extend its support to China and express our best wishes to the Government of China for a successful campaign. Thank you very much. PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [42:16]: I thank you and I now give the floor to the European Union. The floor is yours. EU [42:22]: Thank you very much. Thank you, Vice Minister for this presentation. Clearinghouse Mechanism of the BB&J Agreement is really the powerhouse of the agreement and we want it. EU · EU [42:36]: I'm speaking on behalf of the EU and its Member States. We wanted to ask you how you envisage the Secretariat's management of Clearinghouse mechanism as regards ensuring long term stability, accessibility to the data and information accessibility and confidentiality of data. Also, would this proposal allow for a governance model in which the Secretariat ensures coordination and management for the Clearinghouse Mechanism, while the underlying data infrastructure is facilitated by an internationally trusted institution? Thank you very much. China · Vice Minister, MFA · Hua Chingying [43:24]: On the future model of the Secretariat, we've discussed that with relevant delegates and parties involved. The Bibianjian Secretariat, it is an independent and new body. Thus, if China has the chance to host the Secretariat, we will be fair and we will be objective to ensure that the Secretariat can perform its duties. And we will work to build a platform for equal footed consultation for data sharing under the Secretariat. Considering that over the past 20 years Doualas has played a very important role for the negotiations, adoption and entry into force of the BBNJ Agreement. We believe in this transitional phase, the Office of Dualists should continue to play its role and to ensure a certain continuity between DWELLERS and the new Secretariat. And also we support the future Secretariat to have closer link with the UN this is also our firm support to the UN multilateralism under current circumstances. Also now many parties think that the Secretary should also have a certain degree of autonomy. China is also in support of that. So China will be very open and very constructive. We will continue to discuss with all sides and to set out a best model for the Secretariat for all, which will also best serve the discharge of duties of the Secretariat. Thank you. PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [44:59]: I thank the Vice Minister and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belarus. Belarus [45:10]: Thank you very much. And thank you to the Foreign Minister for this comprehensive presentation. For our part, I'd like to comment that the Republic of Belarus wholeheartedly supports the nomination of Xiamen proposed by the People's Republic of China for the Secretariat of the Organization, namely the BB and J. We acknowledge the strong role and the contribution of the of China to managing marine resources. It is our conviction that putting the Secretariat in Xiamen will be an important contribution to the consolidation of international cooperation in terms of strengthening the law of the sea and thus will facilitate sustainable development both at the regional level and at the global scale. We'd like to note the strong expertise that China has in managing the whole range of management of marine resources and supporting biological diversity. We are convinced that the nomination of Xiamen meets all necessary requirements and merits universal support. The Republic of Belarus assures its unconditional support to this Chinese initiative. I thank you, PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [46:35]: I thank Belarus and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nicaragua. Nicaragua [46:45]: Thank you very much, Mr. Co Chair and a very good morning, everyone. The delegation of the Republic of Nicaragua applauds and welcomes the distinguished representative Hua Chun Jing, representing the People's Republic of China. We also thank and congratulate the sister People's Republic of China for the presentation and for their bids to propose the City of Xiamen as the headquarters of the Secretariat of the BBNJ on the conservation and sustainable use of the marine environment in areas beyond national jurisdiction. The candidature is being proposed at a highly relevant moment and is an appropriate alternative to host the Permanent Secretariat of the Secretariat of the bbnj. We reiterate Nicaragua's firm support to this bid, certain of the fact that the People's Republic of China, in their capacity as host country, will provide the BPNJ Agreement Secretary with all of the logistical, technical and cooperation conditions required for the efficient discharging of its role. Furthermore, the City of Xiamen being proposed as the headquarters for the Secretariat is important since it shares a privilege with the continents of the Americas, Africa and Europe and having geographical distribution for different headquarters of UN bodies is important. The People's Republic of China has been characterized as a nation that is firmly committed to multilateralism and to the strengthening of the global south to benefit developing countries. We can underscore their support for marine research and protecting the marine environment on the oceans and the seas, as well as the leading role that they played in the negotiations for the BPNJ agreement. In this regard, their bid reaffirms a clear commitment on the part of the PRC to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Thank you very much, Mr. Co Chair. PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [49:12]: I thank Nicaragua. I have delegates. I have a reasonably long list. Can I suggest the following? In the time we have available, we will seek to take questions from Maldives, Vietnam and Germany. I then have on the list the state of Palestine, France, Japan and Liberia. I don't think we will get to them in time. Could I encourage the delegation of China to reach out to those countries to seek to answer questions directly? And with that, I will give the floor to the Maldives. Maldives [49:49]: Thank you. Thank you, Chair. The Maldives would like to thank China for its comprehensive presentation this morning. The Maldives is pleased to express its full support for China's bid to host the Secretariat. We wish the delegation all the best in their effort to seek support. The Maldives commends China's thoughtful and practical proposal to host the BBNJ Secretariat. The offer demonstrates a clear readiness, including dedicated facilities, support for capacity building and sustained engagement. The Mall. This commends China's strong commitment to multilateralism. We also Note China's hosting BB&J Secretariat will ensure equitable geographical representation under enclosed framework with no existing hub in Asia as of now. For small island developing states such as the Maldives, the emphasis on the implementation support and financial support is especially meaningful. I wish you all the best. Thank you. PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [50:52]: I thank the Maldives. And I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Vietnam. Viet Nam [51:01]: Thank you, Mr. Chair, for giving me the floor. The delegation of Vietnam thanks China for its detailed and informative briefing and notes with appreciation its proposal to host the Secretariat in Xiamen. We take note in particular of the proposal's emphasis on fostering international cooperation, advancing marine science and technology and promoting knowledge sharing among parties. These elements could make a meaningful contribution to the implementation of the agreement, particularly in support of developing countries. Vietnam will continue to follow this candidacy as discussions progress, with a view to its further consideration by the PrepCom and by COP1 regarding the location of the Secretariat. We would welcome further clarification on two points. First, how does China envisage mobilizing Siaman's strength in marine science and technology to support the work of the Secretariat, including in the areas of capacity building and knowledge sharing for developing countries. And second, what forms of assistance, financial, logistical and technical, could be made available by the host country to facilitate the attendance and effective participation of geographically distant developing states, in particular small island developing states in meeting under the BB&J agreement. I thank you. China · Vice Minister, MFA · Hua Chingying [52:47]: Well, thank you representative from Vietnam. The questions you raised are all very important. China is always committed to marine science cooperation and we've worked actively for marine biodiversity restoration and development of Blue Economy. We've been sharing our experiences with many parties. From my presentation and videos, you must have seen that we have many scientific institutions that have taken an active part under the UN Ocean Decade. We've also provided the international community with large language models such as DEPS GDP and we've been sharing all our technologies and data in an open manner over the years. We've also pushed forward biodiversity conservation and offshore environmental conservation with other developing countries. Going forward, China will initiate more joint Deep Sea Research Expedition tours with other countries and open up our technology data platform to other countries and continue such joint expedition. I mentioned Salmon is the birthplace of China's marine science and also a very influential research hub on marine science. In Salmon, it has many world class research institutes. Salmon is the home port of many scientific vessels. For instance, the Jiagen research vessels have invited many global scientists on board for deep sea exploration. We will continue to do that in the future and for developing countries in terms of capacity building, in terms of providing financial support to least developed countries and small island countries for their participation in relevant meetings. As I mentioned, we will provide as a first step step US$3 million to help developing countries and least developed countries to take part in meetings and going forward, we will also consider making more contributions and Salmon will also give best conditions for the participation. For instance, we have facilities ready for training programs. I invite my. Well, that's my response. Thank you. PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [54:53]: Thank you very much, Vice Minister and I give the floor to Germany. Germany [55:02]: Thank you very much. I'm speaking on behalf of Germany as a member state of the EU and I thank you very much for your presentation and for the possibility to ask questions. A specific question from our side would be that the BB&J agreement as it provides that the COP shall promote transparency in a decision making procedure and it also provides as a rule, all meetings of the COP should be open for observers. So the question is, how do you intend to facilitate participation of all delegates, experts and civil society representatives, including observers Also, given the situation that if your country has objected to observers, how do you address that? How do you plan to address that in the Context of the BB&J agreement? And one additional point, if I may. As we ran out of time, or we run out of time, if it's possible to also convey questions in written form. Thank you very much. China · Vice Minister, MFA · Hua Chingying [56:23]: Well, first of all, let me say that we welcome anyone to give us questions in writing at any time. We will give you as much details as possible. Your question is about how to ensure the participation of all sides. Let me say this. Please rest assured. We welcome delegates from all countries from all levels, including NGOs, including those from countries without diplomatic relations with China, to attend BBNG related meetings in Xiamen. In fact, in China we always hold all kinds of multilateral meetings at various levels and there has never been any restriction for the participation after we deposited our instrument. Actually, many NGOs have given China the praise. They believe that China's participation will help with the full and effective implementation of the bbnj. This shows that all sides and all observers, they very much look forward to China's contribution to the BBNJ's implementation. Of course we welcome foreign NGOs and observers to come to China for meetings in accordance with laws and rules. If the Secretariat is in Xiamen, then we will act with the COPS rules of procedure, the Headquarter Agreement, as well as other relevant laws and regulations to ensure that observers to ensure that NGOs have the right to take part in the meetings and we will provide them with the facilities from their visa procedure to coming here for the meeting. So please assured we will do everything we can and provide convenience. Thank you. PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [58:02]: I thank the Vice Minister. Delegates, I have three states inscribed on my Speaker's list. The State of Palestine, Japan and the Solomon Islands. Given that the time has expired, I will pass those the names of those countries and ask the Chinese delegation to liaise with them direct. I note that the Honourable Vice Minister has also extended the offer to answer any questions that are provided in writing. We have gone slightly over time for this session, so I will note to the other two bidding countries that we will keep a record and ensure that the same amount of time is also available to the other two bidding countries. And with that I would thank the Honourable Vice Minister very much for her presence here this morning and have a great day. Thank you. Distinguished delegates, thank you for your attention this morning. Just a short procedural note, particularly for the delegations of Belgium and Chile, the time that was utilised in that session was 42 minutes. So we will of course ensure that the same amount of time of 42 minutes is provided for the respective presentations of both Belgium and Chile for presentations and then questions and answer. With that we will now provide brief oral reports on the parallel discussions that took place yesterday under item 5 of the agenda. In this respect we wish to note that oral reports are not meant to be an exhaustive and detailed summary of all of the views expressed and the proposals made, but rather to provide an idea of the topics that seem to be the focus of delegations interventions and the general trends in the discussions. The reports are of course without prejudice to the discussions still to be held at PrepCom 3. I think this is a comment we've made every day now for the PrepCom, so maybe if we can take that as read for all future sessions we can save ourselves a little bit of time. And with that I will pass the floor to Janine first to provide the oral reports for her sessions. PrepCom · Co-Chair · Janine [1:02:41]: Thank you very much and good morning to everyone. A second meeting on operationalization of other provisions on financial resources and mechanism under the agreement with a focus on the Special Fund and the Voluntary Trust Fund took place yesterday afternoon in Conference Room 4. With regard to the Special Fund delegations considered the appendix of the draft decision of the Conference of the Parties for the purpose of operationalizing the Special Fund as contained in the annex to the Note by the co Chairs which contains terms of reference for the process to assist in such operationalization, thereby completing a full reading of the draft decision. Thank you very much. During the meeting different views were expressed on a range of issues including the purpose and mandate of the process, including its output, the key elements for the process to consider with additional elements proposed and the modalities of the process with proposals made to further elaborate decision making procedures, quorum requirements and the possibility of inviting experts to participate in the process. While we understand the position of the need for an open ended ad hoc working group, delegates did express flexibility and focus mainly on the inclusivity and participatory nature of the process. Furthermore, given the weight of the room in favor of the Ad hoc committee with limited size, the Co Chairs will consider working modalities that may involve meeting in an informal informal format to help identify a possible landing zone. We will of course inform delegation in advance of our next meeting on this matter scheduled for Friday afternoon, which is just a day away. We then turn to the Voluntary Trust Fund where we completed a reading of the the first seven paragraphs of the draft text of potential terms of reference as contained in the Annex to the aid to discussions and negotiations prepared by the Co Chairs, there appear to be general openness to elaborate in terms of reference for the Voluntary Trust Fund, with some support expressed for such terms to be annexed to the Financial Rules. However, further discussions will be required on the appropriate level of detail so as to provide sufficient guidance while avoiding micromanaging the administration of the Voluntary Trust Fund. There is also broad support for limiting financial assistance from the Voluntary Trust Fund to the scope set out in Article 52, paragraph 4 of the agreement. While some support was expressed for expanding that scope subject to certain conditions, further discussions will be required on which meetings should be eligible for funding and on whether there should be a limit on the number of representatives from each developing State party that may receive funding for each meeting. Regarding the way forward, our intention is to complete a full reading of the draft text later today, time permitting, following our consideration of arrangements for the functioning of the Secretariat. Turning next to the meeting on arrangements with Global Environment Facility to give effect to the relevant provisions on funding, we had our first meeting yesterday morning, 24th March in the trusteeship Council Chamber. Based on the further revised aid to discussions and negotiations prepared by the Co Chairs, Discussions focused on bracketed texts without prejudice to any proposals of delegations on other texts and some progress was made. There was broad support for referring to Article 7 of the Agreement on General Principles and Approaches in the Preamble and in paragraph 2. While further consideration will be required on whether to refer to specific principles and approaches in the Preamble, Further consideration will also be required on bracketed texts and proposals made relating to guidance from the COP and conformity therewith, including those concerning Indigenous peoples and local communities and those concerning redress in the event of a decision of Jeff is considered inconsistent with COP guidance, we started discussing bracketed text relating to reporting requirements and will continue when this issue is next considered. In the meantime, we as Co Chairs will consult with delegations with a view to identifying appropriate working methods to advance discussions on this matter, in particular on issues where divergence remain. Thank you very much, Adam. Over. Back to you. PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [1:07:30]: Thank you, Janine. Turning to Rules of procedure, which continued during a second meeting on the topic held yesterday morning, 24th March, the discussions continued to focus on bracketed text in the document, in particular on draft Rule 4 on the date of meetings and draft Rule 6 on observers. With regard to draft Rule 4, there seem to be convergence that unless otherwise decided by the Conference of the Parties, the meetings of the Conference of the Parties should be held annually. Initially shifting to meeting every other year at some point. Discussions addressed whether to include a sunset clause on annual meetings in the text of the rule. Delegations also discussed the threshold for deciding on the holding of extraordinary meetings, whether this was decided during an ordinary meeting of the Conference of the Parties or upon the written request of a Party. With regard to draft Rule 6, delegations generally supported the new structure of the draft rule. Discussions addressed the modalities of decision making on the participation of observers, including possible thresholds for objections and whether to include a non objection procedure in relation to some categories of observers, whether observers once approved, could participate in all future sessions of the Conference of Parties, the modalities for the delivery of statements by observers and whether to include a specific provision on the participation of Indigenous peoples. Following the delivery of oral reports, we will continue the consideration of the Rules of Procedure for the Conference of Parties this morning in CR11, starting with the bracketed text in draft section 4 on the agenda, I.e. rules 9 to 13, after which we will discuss the composition of The Bureau, Rule 22, the Draft Rules Relating to Subsidiary Bodies, Section 7 and Other Resolved issues for those who were present yesterday morning. At the end of the session I did read out the list of issues that are remaining for us to consider and resolve and it is fair to say that while we've been working well and productively, there remains a lot to do in the remaining two sessions. So if necessary, in order to progress the work on this document, we will be looking for other opportunities to accommodate continued conversation on the Rules of Procedure throughout this week in addition to sessions scheduled in the organisation of work. This includes if other scheduled items finish early. As such, please note the following delegations should be prepared to consider the Rules of Procedure at short notice should that opportunity arise and as ever, Janine and I will try to ensure that we provide as much notice in advance of that as we possibly can if I can Turn now to subsidiary bodies the second meeting on subsidiary bodies was held yesterday afternoon, 24 March continuing discussions based on the aid prepared by the Co Chairs. The discussions focused on cross cutting modalities for the operation of the Subsidiary bodies including the program of work decision making, recommendations, reporting requirements, experts, financial arrangements and cooperation and coordination with IFBs. A number of delegations observed that the work of the subsidiary bodies should not be micromanaged. It was generally recognised that subsidiary bodies should have flexibility in developing their own programs of work. Discussions considered the level of COP oversight, a joint work program for small island developing States across subsidiary bodies and a dedicated agenda item for IFB cooperation in terms of decision making, delegations converged on consensus as the primary objective, with voting as a last resort. Discussions also addressed reflecting minority views in the reports and the possibility of developing a silence or non objection procedure for virtual or intercessional work concerning recommendations. Delegations generally supported the inclusion of options where appropriate and as reasons for recommendations where appropriate and reasons for recommendations on reporting requirements. Delegations discuss the contents, frequency and timeline of reports on possible engagement with the proposed Advisory Group on the Mechanism on Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities. Discussions highlighted various cross cutting issues in the work of the subsidiary bodies that may be relevant should such a group or mechanism be established under the agreement. On the topic of experts, delegations appeared to converge on the need for subsidiary bodies to have the ability to invite experts to participate in their work and in the work of any subgroups, while taking into account gender and geographical considerations. In this respect, the establishment of rosters of experts under the scientific and technical body was discussed. On financial arrangements, delegations highlighted the need for alignment with ongoing work under other work streams, including the Voluntary Trust Fund with regard to cooperation and coordination between subsidiary bodies and the relevant IFBs, and the importance of ensuring consistency with ongoing work under other work streams was highlighted. We will take up the subsidiary bodies again on Thursday afternoon where we will aim to complete the first round of consideration of the document. We will begin with Part four Conflicts of Interest, followed by the cross cutting paragraphs of Part 2 Purposes and Functions, after which we will discuss observers and any other essential items from delegations in order to conclude the first round consideration of the document. For those delegations who were present yesterday in subsidiary bodies, I thank you. We worked extremely well and very efficiently and perhaps even had a little bit of fun along the way. We're now ahead of schedule and if we can conclude consideration of subsidiary bodies in the next session, that will create much needed space in our program for consideration of other issues. And with that the floor is now open for comments on the reports just made, bearing in mind that they are not meant to be an exhaustive reflection of all of the views and proposals, but rather to identify the main issues that have been the focus of delegations interventions and the way forward. I see that the Dominican Republic has requested the floor. The floor is yours. Dominican Republic [1:15:40]: Distinguidos Co Persidentes Colegas Distinguished Co Chairs Colleagues for the Dominican Republic it's the highest honour to announce today the ratification of the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biodiversity beyond National jurisdiction and to become the 87th state party with this step, our country reaffirms its unequivocal commitments to multilateralism, to international law, and to the responsible governance of the oceans. We assume this ratification with the conviction that protecting marine biodiversity is not an option, but rather it is a shared responsibility for the Dominican Republic in our capacity as an island state. The ocean is not a distant or abstract reality. It is a vital resource. It is sustenance, it's protection, it's an opportunity. But above all, it's an indissociable part of our identity, of our economy and of our culture. Our history, our communities, our coastal communities, our ways of life and our aspirations for sustainable development are profoundly linked to the sea. The Dominican Republic joins with determination the collective effort to strengthen the health of the oceans, to preserve their ecosystems, to promote a just and sustainable use of their resources, and to ensure that the benefits also reach developing countries, in particular small island states. Our message today is clear. We believe in a healthy, resilient and productive ocean. We believe in equity, in access to its benefits on an equitable basis. And we believe in collective action as the only way to respond to the environmental challenges of our times. We therefore reiterate our firm commitment to the swift, active implementation of the agreement. And we urge states who have not yet done so to join this common effort. Thank you very much, Co Chairs. PrepCom · Co-Chair · Adam [1:17:41]: Muchos gracias to the Dominican Republic and delegates. I think it's become custom in these proceedings to greet such welcome announcements with a round of applause. Congratulations to the Dominican Republic. I will assume we've got no questions. Other questions on the oral reports? No. Cote d' Ivoire has sought the floor. The floor is yours. Côte d’Ivoire [1:18:16]: Good morning, everyone. I want to thank you for the excellent work and.