CCPCJ35: Meeting 2 – 1 June 2026

Yeah, excellencies, dear delegates. Please proceed to your seats. We start the afternoon session and I now open agenda item seven, UN standard and norms. For the sole purpose of the handover of the youth recommendations stemming from the fourth global youth forum for a culture of lawfulness that took place in Japan in March 2026. I give the floor now to the representative of the youth forum, Mrs. Corali Arias. Mrs. Arias, you have the floor.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, participants and friends. It is an honor to stand before you today on behalf of the youth participants of the Fourth Global Youth Forum for a Culture of Lawfulness, co-hosted by the Ministry of Justice, Japan and UNODC from March 5th to 7th, 2026 in Tokyo, and which brought together 84 participants from 43 different countries. At the heart of this forum, there was a pressing and timely theme. youth and community engagement in preventing reoffending through social reintegration. Over three days, we exchanged perspectives and developed a set of recommendations for your consideration. Allow me to highlight three key messages. First, we call on governments, civil society, and media organizations to reexamine how they portray and refer to ex-offenders and formerly incarcerated persons. in order to confront social stigma and discrimination. Second, we call on governments, universities, and relevant service providers to foster more rehabilitative and reintegrative environments, particularly through education, mentoring, and employment opportunities. Third, we recommend that reintegration programs be tailored to the needs of vulnerable groups, including youth, women, migrants, ethnic minorities, and persons with special needs through initiatives such as legal and social clinics, pro bono partnerships, state-funded services, and youth-led awareness efforts. We all agree that recognizing the humanity of ex-offenders is key to rehabilitation and reintegration. In our discussions, we also emphasized the importance of shared definitions and concepts that are meaningful to all stakeholders. As a Japanese proverb states, "Chiri mo tsumoreba yama to naru," the English translation, "Even little, when piled up, can become a mountain," which means that small efforts can make a significant difference. The forum created a space for youth voices to come together. And while each voice may seem small, we believe that together they contribute to meaningful change in preventing reoffending. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my co-chair, Mr. Carlos A. Oliveira. Lastly, let me add that the forum was not just a platform for us to speak, but also a space that spoke to us. It reminded us as youth that we do have a voice, that it does matter, and that it has a place in global conversations about criminal justice and the rule of law. On that note, I am pleased to formally present to you the final recommendations of the Fourth Global Youth Forum for a Culture of Lawfulness.

Thank you.

Yeah, thank you, Mrs. Arias. Thank you very much. We are grateful to the participants of the Youth Forum for bringing these important recommendations to the attention of the Commission, and I encourage all to make good use of them in the context of our Commission's work. Agenda item 7 is now suspended and we resume consideration of agenda item 3, general debate. And I would now like to invite Mrs. Nane Retzlaff, expert, Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection of Germany, to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Mr. Chair, At the outset and on behalf of the German delegation, I wish to congratulate you on the election and would like to thank you for guiding us through the conference. Please be assured of my delegation's full support. I also wish to thank the Secretariat for preparing and organizing this conference so diligently. Germany fully aligns itself with the statement on behalf of the European Union and its Member States, I wish to add the following comments in my national capacity. This session takes place under unusual circumstances. The UN Crime Congress, which should have preceded our work this week, had to be postponed to September. We encourage all delegations to use the additional time wisely to consolidate consensus on the declaration and to ensure the Congress delivers concrete guidance for the rule of law and the protection of people and planet in the digital age. We are confident that the Abu Dhabi will provide a strong platform for a forward-looking declaration. Mr. Chair, Germany attaches high importance on the topics presented in the draft resolutions, emphasizing the importance of strengthening our collective efforts to prevent and combat organized fraud. We welcome the US initiative on preventing and combating transnational sexual extortion of children. The manipulation and coercion of children in the digital sphere, increasingly amplified by AI, is among the most disturbing developments in transnational crime today. Preventing and combating sexual violence is a top priority for the German government. In fact, just recently, the Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection introduced a bill to strengthen the protection against digital violence creating new offenses for sexualized deepfakes, image-based sexual abuse, and cyberstalking, offenses that disproportionately affect women and girls.

Mr. Chair, combating crime is one thing.

Preventing crime from happening is another. Every victim is one too many. Children and adolescents cannot protect themselves. The responsibility for ensuring a secure online world lies with us and the online platforms.

Let us use the upcoming.

Days to advance a preventive criminal justice policy rooted in human dignity, gender equality, and the rule of law.

Thank you.

Thank you for the statement and I now invite Her Excellency, Ms. Evangelina Lourdes Bernas, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Philippines to address the Commission. Excellency, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Philippines congratulates you, Mr. Chair, Ambassador Bohn, and the Bureau members of the 35th session of CCPCJ, and warmly congratulates Dr. Monica Juma on her appointment as Executive Director of UNODC. The Philippines fully supports the work of CCPCJ and UNODC. As technology transforms the global landscape, crimes such as trafficking in persons, cybercrime, and fraud converge and grow in sophistication. transcending borders. This highlights the importance of multilateralism and the crucial role of CCPCJ to address such complex challenges. The Philippines remains committed to advancing global crime prevention and criminal justice, demonstrating leadership in tackling trafficking in persons, cybercrimes, and fraud, among others. With a whole-of-nation, victim-centered approach, the Philippines has maintained its Tier 1 ranking for 10 consecutive years in the Trafficking in Persons Report. Our Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act addresses evolving challenges in the digital age while comprehensively protecting trafficking victims. We intensified efforts against online sexual abuse or exploitation of children and child sexual abuse or exploit of or exploitation materials or OSAIC and CSEM including through own top cross-border cooperation. We launched our first strategic plan against OSAIC and CSEM last December and last month, the Philippines and its partners held the National ISP Summit on Child Online Protection and Responsible Digital Industry Engagement. Revising our Anti-OSAC and Anti-CSAM Act is a priority legislative measure to strengthen prevention, reporting, and cooperation. We call for strengthened international cooperation to address the full chain of OSAC, including community vulnerabilities, online platforms, and financial channels. Identifying demand-side hotspots, mostly in the West, offender networks and perpetrators. Our priority is to safeguard our children, women and girls from these overseas perpetrators. On fraud, Our government has shut down multiple scam hubs and repatriated hundreds of Filipinos who were forced to work in scam operations in our region. Last April, we rolled out standard operating procedures that evolved our approach from closing scam hubs to seizing illicit resources, securing convictions, protecting victims, and disrupting related financial networks. Fraud, including sextortion, converges with other crimes like human trafficking and forced criminality, and there is a strong need for cross-border cooperation. We have been working with our international counterparts on how to address sexual extortion, including ways to strengthen legislation, coordination, and case handling. In our region, as lead shepherd for the working group on trafficking in persons for the ASEAN, some on transnational crime, the Philippines led the issuance of the ASEAN guideline on the implementation of the non-punishment principle. Supplementing this, we developed our victim identification system and enhanced our national referral mechanism for trafficking cases linked to scams. Finally, Mr. Chair, the Philippines respectfully seeks support from Member States for its candidature to CCPCJ for 2028-30, ready to contribute actively based on national experience in justice sector reform and practical leadership in combating trafficking in persons, online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, and scam centers, as well as in penal reform and advocacy in the women, peace and security agenda. A full version of our statement is available online. Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.

Thank you. And I now invite Mr. Armen Mkrtchyan, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Armenia to address the Commission. Floor is yours.

Thank you. Distinguished Chair, Excellencies, Delegates, I would like to extend my appreciation to the Chair, the Bureau and the Secretariat of the Governing Bodies for the critical work in preparing this session. I would also like to warmly welcome Dr. Monica Juma, the new Executive Director of UNODC. Armenia underscores the critical role of the Commission in advancing crime prevention and criminal justice policies, particularly at a time when increasingly complex and interconnected criminal threats undermine peace, security, and sustainable development. Armenia's re-election to the CCPCG for a third term reflects our strong commitment to this work, and I thank all partners for their trust and support. Mr. Chair, we believe that crime prevention and criminal justice must remain people-centered, evidence-based, and grounded in respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. Over the past years, comprehensive measures have been introduced by the government of Armenia aimed at enhancing access to justice, strengthening the independence, integrity, and effectiveness of criminal justice institutions, approving responses to organized crime and corruption, expanding digital and cyber crime capacities, and improving the effectiveness and accountability of law enforcement institutions. Among the major milestones in this process was bringing together the police, the rescue service, and the migration and citizenship service under a unified institutional framework of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. A reform that introduced stronger parliamentary and civilian oversight mechanisms while enabling operational bodies to focus more effectively on their professional mandates. The new governance model of the Armenian police, built around four core pillars-- patrol service, criminal police, community police, and the police guard-- has enhanced the quality of policing service. My country has also intensified efforts against cybercrime through the establishment of specialized cybercrime unit. In parallel, the criminal police expanded operations against drug trafficking networks, focusing particularly of dismantling supply chains and online distribution channels, and registering a significant increase in seizures compared to previous years. Armenia has developed independent anti-corruption framework and comprehensive integrity checks and screening procedures. The introduction of modern digital tools and e-court solution led to a significant decrease in case blacklogs. Drastically improving access to justice, my country is actively overhauling its penal and prison system, shifting from a historical punitive penal system toward rehabilitation. distinguished delegates Armenia emphasizes the critical role of international cooperation for ensuring effective crime prevention and criminal justice and highly appreciates the valuable support of of its partner and international organizations in particular the UN ODC most recent Examples of fruitful cooperation with UNODC have produced a new anti-drug strategy and its action plan and the program on strengthening the administration of prisons and probation. And I use this opportunity to invite interested member states to support the implementation of this program. Through the European Union major project, support the justice reform in Armenia, we aim to further ambitious reforms, including the development of a comprehensive crime prevention strategy, which will ensure that citizens of Armenia enjoy their right in life with the highest international standards. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that Armenia remains coming to constructive engagement within this Commission and to working with all member states toward building a safer, more just, and resilient future. Thank you.

Thank you. And I now invite His Excellency, Mr. Sang-wook Ham, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Korea to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Chair. Let me begin by congratulating you on your election as the Chair of the CCPCJ.

In recent years, we have faced that transnational organized criminal groups are increasingly committing large-scale online scam offences using digital online platforms to deceive and exploit victims around the world. And this phenomenon creates very new and serious challenges for national law enforcement and criminal justice system.

It has become more.

Important than ever for states to cooperate actively within the framework of the CCPCJ to respond to these crimes. The Republic of Korea has taken pride in serving as a member of this Commission.

And in doing its best to strengthen our criminal justice system and to advance international cooperation in this field. Specifically, Korea has recently taken firm action against transnational online fraud crimes. We arrested the foreign ring leader of an overseas.

Hacking group that targeted numerous banking websites and virtual asset accounts, stealing around 25 million US dollars. In cooperation with Thai authorities, we successfully extradited the criminal to stand trial in Korea.

In addition, Korea has strictly investigated and prosecuted cases relating with the production and distribution of digital child sexual abuse material using the advanced digital forensic investigation techniques.

Furthermore, through collaboration with relevant agencies, we have implemented a comprehensive support to guarantee victims the right to be forgotten.

By ensuring the swift blocking and deletion of distributed.

The illicit materials.

Korea has built a stronger system for international cooperation by actively participating in the Southeast Asia Justice Network, SEAJUST. This collaborative network has proven essential in blocking cross-border crimes and ensuring that criminal proceeds are frozen and recovered effectively.

So.

Korea will host a side event during this session titled United Against Scam Centers, a CJIS-led approach to transnational fraud. Finally, the Republic of Korea remains firmly committed to combating transnational organized crime through multilateral cooperation.

We stand ready to share our expertise in cyber crime investigation, digital forensics, and victim support systems. We also pledge to work closely with UNODC and other member states to develop innovative solutions to these evolving threats.

I thank you very much. Thank you. And now I invite His Excellency Mr. Rapulana Mollekane, Ambassador and Permanent Representative to South Africa, to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Chairperson. On behalf of the Government of South Africa, I take this opportunity to congratulate you, Chair, Ambassador Aboun, and members of the Bureau. Be assured of our support and constructive contribution in this session of the CCPCJ. We extend our warmest congratulations to the Executive Director of the UNODC, Ms. Monica Juma. South Africa affirms our readiness to support Madam Juma in advancing the mandate of the UNODC. Chair, this session of the CCPCJ is taking place in a globally challenging time where multilateralism and international law are under massive attack. Despite this climate, South Africa continues to reaffirm the Commission's critical role in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 16 on promoting peaceful, just and inclusive societies, ensuring access to justice and building effective, accountable institutions. This attack on multilateralism and the rollback on international law with unilateralism and promotion of might and jungle law is adversely affecting and denting the credibility and belief in the current institutions of global governance, including the United Nations. We, however, should not allow the spoilers to derail us and defocus our determination to fight the scourge of transnational organized crime. In spite of the unjustified cuts to the regular budget, we take note of the initiatives such as the UN 80, as efforts to counter these financial constraints within the UN system. South Africa is concerned about crimes such as illegal mining, trafficking in precious metals and wildlife trafficking, which are closely linked to transnational organized crime as well as illicit financial flows, especially facilitated by multinational cooperation. South Africa is deeply concerned about the growing convergence, which is not adequately addressed under the current UNTOC. South Africa is concerned about the growing gender-based violence and has strengthened its criminal justice system to ensure that our efforts remain adaptive, coordinated, and effective in addressing these threats. and other emerging challenges in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Chair, South Africa reiterates the importance of strengthening international legal cooperation through mutual legal assistance, extradition, joint investigation, information sharing, asset recovery, and effective implementation of UNTOC and UNCAC. We also urge member states to sign and ratify the Cybercrime Convention to enable its early entry into force and reinforce that global framework for coordinated action against cybercrime. To ensure that these frameworks deliver meaningful outcomes, South Africa underscores the need for capacity building and technical assistance, particularly for developing countries. Enhanced support from the UNODC remains essential to strengthen national criminal justice institutions, improve forensic and investigation capabilities, and address emerging threats linked to new technologies. South Africa is pleased to invite participants to a side event of the Group of Friends of the Nelson Mandela Rules and the launch of the new UNODC/IDCR Handbook on the Use of Technology in Prisons, co-hosted with Germany and Thailand on Tuesday, 2nd June 2026. South Africa welcomes the preparation for the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, which is a vital platform to renew collective commitments, strengthen international cooperation in combating transnational organized crime. I thank you, Chair.

Thank you. And I now invite His Excellency, Mr. Pablo Berti Olivia, Permanent Representative of Cuba, to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. Before this commission, we reiterate our unshakable commitment to prevent and to address transnational organized crime through international cooperation and in strict compliance for national sovereignty. Cuba has a zero tolerance policy with regard to drug trafficking, human trafficking, arms trafficking, money laundering, terrorism, and cybercrime. And through close interagency and community coordination, we've produced tangible results that make our country a safe, secure environment for Latin American and the Caribbean. And we preventing criminal groups from trying to use our territory as a logistics corridor, neutralizing systematically the actions with complex operations. But we are facing a situation of extreme hostility where there are threats to my country, the threat of a direct military aggression. This is something that we condemn most firmly. We denounce that the biggest obstacle to our operational capacity is the illegal blockade commercial and financial blockade that has been imposed on our country for nearly 70 years by the United States. This unilateral encirclement has reached unprecedented levels recently with the energy blockade that is depriving Cuba of stable supplies of energy and is affecting even more the quality of life of our people. This is affecting our people's daily lives, but it is also having an impact on our ability to acquire advanced technology for our ports and our airports and essential equipment to ensure monitoring and prevention and prosecution of transnational organized crime. Although having a secure Cuba is also crucial for stability and security for the whole region, but we're being unjustly punished here. But no blockade of this kind will break the institutional and public will of our people to combat the scourge of transnational organized crime, we continue to remain firm on our commitment. Over these last years, we have undertaken a major modernization of our judicial system in line with the mandates of our constitution, our new criminal code, and our new procedural code have new offences and higher penalties for new types of organised crime, such as cybercrime and the financing of terrorism. At the same time, we are also changing the way that we treat crimes putting the focus on the victims. We now have more robust protocols for legal, medical, and psychological assistance to ensure that victims of crimes such as human trafficking are not criminalized, but are protected and have full use of their rights and their dignity under the state's protection. We reiterate that transnational organized crime cannot be eradicated with unilateral coercive measures or in isolation. The only legitimate road is that of multilateralism and of close, sincere and sovereign cooperation. We will remain a bastion of peace and social justice and cooperation in this common combat. Thank you.

Thank you. And I now invite His Excellency, Mr. Mohamed Nasser, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Egypt to address the Commission. Ambassador, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Chair, at the outset, I wish to convey my congratulations to you upon assuming the chairmanship of the CCPCJ, as I congratulate other members of the Bureau recently elected equally. I note that we align ourselves with the statement of the African group and wish to make the following remarks in my national capacity. Egypt welcomed the appointment of Ms. Ajuma as Executive Director of the UNODC and Director General. of the UNOV. We believe that through her long experience, she will be able to run and maintain the delivery of support and transfer of technology to member states in their efforts to counter crime effectively, while always bolstering criminal justice systems and guaranteeing the prosperity of countries. Egypt has been keen to ensure the delivery of justice for all, including through the digitalization of courts and the application of a system that allows the consideration of the renewal of a period of detention remotely. The Egyptian women are part and parcel of the judicial including at the level of judges and public prosecution. We have over 400 female judges, and we have in place a plan to rehabilitate and reform the judicial system, correctional institutions, including denominations, among others. Egypt welcomes the adoption of the UN Convention against Cybercrime, and we confirm that we remain committed to countering these crimes. In addition to attaching importance to improving capabilities of African countries in this field, we intend to establish an African excellence center in this field in cooperation with the UNODC. Over the next month we will be holding a relevant conference. Egypt underscored the importance of strengthening international cooperation in countering illicit trafficking in intellectual properties and in the implementation of relevant UN resolutions. We welcome cooperation with UNODC in this field. Chair, Egypt underscores the common responsibility in support of states and their efforts in countering trafficking, smuggling of migrants, including through the provision of legitimate channels of migration in order to address this crime. Despite difficulties we are faced with, including the hosting of over 10 million migrant and refugee, we have guaranteed that no boats carrying these individuals have left our shores since 2016. On trafficking in persons, we have issued the third national strategy to counter this crime, which focuses on protection for victims and the non-punishment thereof for crimes they are forced to commit. We support UNODC in its efforts in countering and preventing terrorism, in addition to countering the ever-increasing nexus between transnational organized crime and terrorism, particularly in East Africa. Research undertaken by UNODC is in line with its mandate. We underscore the importance of neutrality and bearing in mind discrepancies among countries. The UNODC plays a role in strengthening international cooperation and building capacities in developing countries. This ultimately serves the international system in countering crimes, corruption, and drugs. The UNODC plays a central role and assists in the attainment of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. We support the hosting by the UAE of the 15th Congress on Crime Prevention to be held in Abu Dhabi in September. We believe fully in the capabilities of the Emirati leadership to take this to fruition. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement, and I now invite Mr. Zine Eddine Ghoufi, Charg d'Affaires of the Permanent Mission of Algeria, to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Chairperson. At the outset, allow me to convey my sincere congratulations to you upon assuming the chairmanship of the current session. I equally thank the UNODC Secretariat led by Ms. Monica Juma, its executive director, for the excellent preparation and organization of the current session. Chairperson, we align ourself with the statement delivered by the African group and wish to make, in a national capacity, the following remarks. Algeria attaches utmost importance to combating transnational organized crime. This constitutes a direct threat to security, stability, and sustainable development at the regional and international levels. Algeria underscores that threats linked to transnational organized crime, terrorism, illegal trafficking in drugs and arms, the trafficking in persons, and cybercrime have become more intertwined and complex, which requires a comprehensive and balanced approach through addressing root causes of such phenomena, through strengthening prevention, development, and intensifying regional and international cooperation, while underscoring the importance of technical assistance and sharing of experiences and building capacities of member states who underscore the utmost importance of drying up financing of organized crime and terrorism, particularly in view of the ever increasing exploitation of modern technologies, digital assets, and electronic platforms. In this context, we reiterate our call for being informed by the Algeria Guiding Principles on countering the financing of terrorism adopted by the Security Council in January 2025. Equally, we reiterate our commitment to implementing relevant international conventions, particularly the ONTOK and the UN Conc. In addition, we welcome the adoption, the recent adoption by the UN General Assembly of the UN Convention against Cybercrime after a negotiations pathway led by Algeria. equally. We continue to implement our international commitments in crime prevention and criminal justice through the modernization of our legislative system and strengthening protection for vulnerable groups and alternative sanctions to imprisonment in line with relevant UN standards, particularly the Nelson Mandela Rules and the Bangkok Rules. Chair, to conclude, Algeria underscores its support to UNODC in its efforts, and we remain keen to continue this collective action in favor of a world that is more just and secure. Thank you.

Thank you. And I now invite His Excellency Mr. Ian Biggs, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Australia, to address the Commission, including in addition a group statement on behalf of MTKA.

Chair, at this 35th session of the CCPCJ, Australia is pleased to reiterate our support for the important work of the Commission and its central role in advancing collective responses to increasingly complex and transnational criminal threats. We reaffirm our commitment to international law and multilateral cooperation, urging all member states to fulfill their contributions and support developing countries to effectively prevent and combat crime. We welcome the appointment of Ms Monica Katina Juma of Kenya as Executive Director of the UNODC, and look forward to working closely together. Chair, we face an increasingly complex and diffuse threat environment where criminal actors operate beyond borders, inflicting far-reaching harm to our communities. Australia remains firmly focused on addressing this evolving threat landscape through collaborative efforts acknowledging it takes coordinated action to disrupt and dismantle sophisticated and entrenched criminal networks. Chair, we are committed to working with international partners to develop meaningful solutions to shared challenges in crime prevention and criminal justice. An example of the need for strong partnerships are the global and regional responses to combating threats such as online scam centers. These ecosystems of polycriminality are a confluence of serious transnational crimes, including human trafficking for forced criminality, cyber-enabled fraud, and illicit financing. Australia is committed to being a trusted partner in Southeast Asia. Through Operation Firestorm, led by the Australian Federal Police, and our development programs, such as the ASEAN-Australia Countertrafficking Program, Australia supports regional partners to disrupt criminal syndicates and strengthen protections for victim survivors. Chair, in the face of converging threats from criminal actors, meaningful multi-stakeholder participation is also vital. Bringing together diverse expertise and perspectives is essential to achieving coordinated approaches and ensuring that fair, impartial, accessible, and transparent justice systems remain at the center of our efforts. Australia's participation in the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime demonstrates this collective approach in practice and our commitment to combat cybercrime. We look forward to continuing our collaborative support for the Commission and to fruitful discussions this week. And then, Chair, I have the honour to deliver a statement on behalf of MICTR. a cross-regional partnership comprising Mexico, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea, Turkey, and Australia, with a shared commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation. MICT would like to extend a warm welcome to the new Executive Director, Monica Juma. It is wonderful to have her join us for CCPCJ, and MICT looks forward to working constructively on building a UNODC that is effective and resilient and supports this Commission well into the future. Chair, in recent years, the rapid emergence of new technologies has led to a significant increase in transnational organized crime, with criminal networks taking advantage of sophisticated communications and virtual assets to expand their illegal activities and profit base. Traditional forms of transnational organized crime are evolving, seen in the emergence of sophisticated scam centers and a concerning rise in human trafficking for the purposes of forced criminality. Alongside this, technology is allowing new crimes, such as sexual extortion, particularly of children, to alarmingly increase in prevalence. This context, in which transnational organized crime is continually evolving, requires us to likewise evolve our responses. Recognizing that transnational crime presents cross-border threats, MICTA countries support strengthened judicial cooperation, international collaboration, and capacity building among member states. We must promote innovative, forward-looking approaches to prevent crime, especially juvenile crime and violence, before it happens, alongside proportional criminal justice and enforcement measures which respect human rights. MICTO supports the CCPCJ's mandate as the principal policy-making organ of the United Nations in the field of crime prevention and criminal justice, and welcomes the CCPCJ's focus on addressing new, emerging, and evolving forms of crime. Furthermore, MICTO recognizes that as the threats posed by transnational organized crime are expanding, the UNODC is increasingly constrained by the liquidity crisis. The current impact on conferences, services, and translation services underscore the need for sustainable reform. In particular, attention must be paid to directing resources where they're most needed and looking at how CCPCJ supports broader criminal justice instruments and systems, avoiding duplication where possible. It is only through such reform that we will be able to expand and preserve the critical functions provided for our regions. Chair, MICT is committed to working closely with all partners to identify practical ways forward, share best practices, and support initiatives that can strengthen international efforts against crime and enhance criminal justice systems. As a group of active and influential middle power democracies, Mikta will continue to support the multilateral system, protect rules and norms, and find avenues for cooperation among diverse partners. Together, we can build a safer and more resilient future for all. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement. And now I invite His Excellency Jose Antonio Zabaleta, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Mexico to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair, and we wish you every success in this session. The delegation of Mexico would like to echo, aligns with the statement of MICTA, and we would also like to make some comments in our national capacity. Mr. Chair, it is a pleasure to be here today at this session with Dr. Monica Drouma, the new Executive Director of the UNODC, and we congratulate Dr. Drouma on her appointment. For the Government of Mexico, UNODC's work is essential to for global peace and security, for human rights, and also for development, working together with states to prevent and to suppress the multiple forms of transnational organized crime, which continue to diversify and to intensify in reach and scale, producing violence and insecurity and harming people and their opportunities in life. So, given this shared challenge, which transcends borders, Mexico believes that multilateralism and international cooperation are the best tools for a holistic response and a long-term vision to address the challenges of transnational organized crime based on the principle of shared responsibility and strict respect for international law. Mr. Chair, Our government's national public security strategy continues to produce tangible results to return peace and calm to our people. We have achieved a 49% reduction in the homicide rate. And this is not just a figure. These are people, families, communities who can continue to build their life projects and peace and security. Through international cooperation, without subordination, Mexico is part of efforts to combat all forms of crime, and we have record seizures of drugs, firearms, and detention of those behind crimes. Our government is convinced that responses to crime must be holistic. And so we continue working to investigate, prosecute and punish the criminal groups who are harming our populations. And we continue to implement our prevention strategy to ensure peace and security and with the priorities of our people's welfare and prosperity, guaranteeing access to education, work, health, housing and sport. And this is what we're working for. This is what we're joining efforts for. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement. And I now invite Her Excellency, Mrs. Maria Sebastian de Riza, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Spain to address the Commission.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you, Mr. Chairperson, and congratulations. Spain aligns in full with the statement of the European Union, and we would like to make some remarks in national capacity. Let me first of all wish a warm welcome to the new Executive Director, Monica Drummer. Spain expresses best wishes for your work and we assure you of our full support. Mr Chairperson, we are living in an international context marked by ever more complex and interconnected challenges. Transnational organized crime, corruption, human trafficking, and illicit migrant smuggling, cybercrime, and crimes affecting the environment are all global threats that undermine security and sustainable development and public trust in our institutions. And so faced with these challenges, Spain reaffirms its commitment to effective rules-based multilateralism centered on the UN system. Crime prevention and criminal justice cannot be addressed in isolation. They are linked to sustainable development and to protecting human rights and institution building, responsible, inclusive. institutions. And thus, Spain is firmly committed to the 2030 agenda and believes that effective implementation of SDG 16 is crucial. We are carrying out major reforms to modernize our justice system and bring it closer to our citizens with digitization of proceedings and more accessible and efficient justice provision and using innovative technological tools. Here, our organic law has transformed the legal structure with a more specialized and cooperative approach. Mr. Chairperson, Spain stresses the importance of equal access to justice for all. We are particularly proud to be co-chairing, together with Brazil and Canada, the Group of Friends on Access to Justice. This is an initiative that reflects the growing awareness that we cannot have a genuine rule of law without accessible, effective justice systems that are centered on people's needs. Spain also believes that gender equality and empowerment of women and girls are key for building more just, secure, and resilient societies. And so we promote full, equal, and meaningful participation of women in justice and security institutions, and also public policy that bolsters the response to gender-based violence. This is a key priority for my country. Combating corruption is also a strategic priority for Spain. Here, we stressed the importance of the civil commitment and the need to keep combat and corruption at the heart of discussions on development financing. Mr. Chair, Spain also expresses its concern over the increase in hate crime and the impact that this has on social cohesion, democratic coexistence and people's dignity. And we pay particular attention to crimes motivated by sexual orientation or gender identity and which are discrimination, exclusion and go under reported in many parts of the world. Finally, Mr. Chairperson, Spain will continue to take active and constructive part in the work of this Commission. We believe that only through strengthened international cooperation and respect for human rights and through strong and effective institutions can we build safer, fairer and more inclusive societies, leaving no one behind. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement. I now invite Her Excellency Mrs. Francesca Camilleri Wettiger, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Malta to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, representatives of civil society, Mr. Chair. Allow me first to start by congratulating you on your chairpersonship of the 35th session of the CCPCJ and assure you of my delegation's support. I would like to also extend our sincerest congratulations and warm welcome to Executive Director Monica Giugni as she recently took up her important mandate while assuring her of Malta's unwavering support in executing this mandate. Mr. Chair, Malta aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union, and I would like to make a few additional remarks in my national capacity. Over the past year, Malta has continued to strengthen its prevention-focused and neighbourhood-based model to policing through the community policing approach. This places stronger engagement with local communities at the centre of public safety efforts. This work has been reinforced by the Malta Police Forces 2025-2030 strategy entitled Safer Communities, Smarter Policing, setting out a vision to transition from reactive law enforcement towards a more intelligence-led and community-oriented policing model. This has been complemented with continued investments in the upskilling of national authorities, particularly in the fields of financial crime and cybercrime investigations, while further resources were dedicated to improving victim support services. Malta prioritized prevention and rehabilitation initiatives aimed at reducing crime and reoffending through the Second Chance Project. The project strengthens measures to assist first-time offenders in rehabilitation and reintegration, with the objective of preventing recidivism. Simultaneously, awareness and prevention campaigns remained an important pillar of our national efforts. including activities linked to the Blue Heart campaign, which continued to raise awareness on human trafficking, aimed at encouraging public vigilance and cooperation. Mr. Chair, Malta also advanced key justice reforms throughout 2025. We introduced the Electronic Monitoring Act, establishing the use of electronic monitoring measures to strengthen supervision, enhance compliance with court orders, support rehabilitation, and reduce pressure on correctional facilities. We also continued investment in the digitalization of court systems to streamline case management, improve efficiency, and reduce delays in judicial proceedings. Furthermore, Malta established more specialized courts, including dedicated inquiring magistrates, aimed to enhance the capacity of the courts to handle cases more effectively and efficiently. As an ardent advocate of multilateralism, Malta remained active on the international stage through initiatives aimed at promoting security, justice and international cooperation. These included the establishment, together with the UNODC, of the Global Centre for Maritime Sanctions Monitoring in Malta, And also during our presidency of the Council of Europe, between May and November of last year, we prioritized the strengthening of cross-border judicial cooperation in addressing transnational crime, including through the adoption and opening for signature of the Valletta Protocol, which aims at modernizing mutual legal assistance in criminal matters. Mr. Chair, we are guided by the conviction that lasting security is built not only on enforcement, but on trust, cooperation, opportunity, and the unwavering protection of human dignity. In this spirit, I would like to warmly invite all of you to join us at our side event this Thursday entitled "Multisectoral Approaches to Address the Nexus Between Criminal Justice and Public Health." And I would like to conclude by reaffirming my country's steadfast commitment to the Commission and its essential work, and we look forward to continue contributing to all the work that comes ahead and to the discussions of this week. I thank you for your attention, Mr. Chair.

Thank you. And I now invite His Excellency Mr. Talal Al-Fasam, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Kuwait to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

In the name of God, most compassionate, most merciful. Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I am pleased at the outset to congratulate you, Mr. Chair, on your election to chair the 35th session of the CCPCJ. We trust that your capable and wise leadership will contribute to the success of this session and to the delivery of its desirable outcomes. We would like also to appreciate the key role of the UN OTC under the leadership of Dr. Monica Juma. and the tireless efforts made by the Office in supporting Member States, strengthening international cooperation to address the growing challenges in connection with organized crime, cybercrime and transnational threats, as well as developing more efficient and inclusive criminal justice systems. Mr. Chair, Kuwait is steadfastly committed to the principles enshrined in its national constitution and legislation. Thus, the State of Kuwait adopts a comprehensive criminal justice policy underpinned by an unwavering conviction that security, rule of law, development, and human rights are interlinked and indivisible. In this context, the State of Kuwait has continuously strived to modernize and update its legislative and institutional system in alignment with international developments and the evolving patterns of crime, especially cyber crimes, money laundering, and trafficking in persons, with special focus on prevention, reform, rehabilitation, and social integration. Mr. Chair, pursuant to international obligations and the SDGs, Kuwait has adopted a number of national policies and measures that aim to foster transparency and integrity and uphold the rule of law. Aligned with Kuwait Vision 2035, which lends special importance to governmental administration development, enhancing institutional efficiency, and upholding the principles of accountability and governance. The national legislative framework has been significantly growing, including by enacting and updating several laws relating to countering corruption, electronic crimes, and protecting the rights of the child. This testifies the dedication by Kuwait to developing its legal and legislative system in alignment with international best practices. At the institutional level, national authorities continue to implement initiatives and structural and legislative reforms that aim to promote the competence and transparency of the judicial system, develop the judicial infrastructure while accelerating digital transformation in justice services, support the use of modern technology and innovation to bolster the efficiency of the criminal justice system. In terms of trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants, Kuwait has made strides during the past few years, including by promoting the permanent National Committee for Combating Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants, launching and implementing the National Strategy for Combating Trafficking in Persons and Migrant Smuggling 2025-2028, and continuously developing relevant legislation, chiefly amongst which Law 91 of 2013 on combating trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants, Law 114 of 2014 of 2024 on the residence of expatriates in addition to modernizing labor market and domestic labor laws Mr. chair the progress made by Kuwait at the national level in the field of criminal justice and crime prevention testifies to its firm belief that human dignity the rule of law and institutional Justice are the main pillars of stable safe and secure and resilient communities capable of addressing the rapidly evolving challenges. Thus, Kuwait reiterates that it continues to support the international efforts that aim to build the capacities of countries that contribute to the effective response to joint challenges and to the maintenance of international peace and security. We do recognize the evolving challenges that we are currently witnessing. Thus, we do believe that international cooperation, exchange of expertise, and investment in capacity building together with responsibly leveraging technology and innovation are indispensable elements towards promoting the effectiveness of the criminal policies and towards fairer, more efficient, and more inclusive responses. And we reiterate that we continue to observe the principles and purposes of the Commission, and we are also keen to cooperate with our partners in the international community to support our joint efforts towards fostering justice, security, and countering all forms of crime. In closing, Mr. Chair, Kuwait reaffirms its full support to the United Arab Emirates in its hosting of the UN 15th Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice to be held in September 2026. And we as we trust that the hosting by the United Arab Emirates is an added value and testifies to the pioneering role of the UAE at the regional and international levels. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you for the statement and I now invite Mrs. Yaviera Paz Herrera, Alternate Permanent Representative of Chile to address the Commission. You have the floor.

Mr. Chairperson. I would like to congratulate you on your election to chair this 35th session of the CCPCJ, and I congratulate the board members. We trust that under your leadership, this session will produce excellent results, and you can count here on the support of our delegation. Chile aligns with the statement made by Grulac, and we would like to make the following remarks in our national capacity, Mr. Chairperson. Chile reiterates its firm commitment to this Commission as the main multilateral forum for strengthening the rule of law and for building criminal justice systems that are effective and that respect human rights and promote holistic crime prevention strategies. For my country, what's important is to examine the impact that organized crime is having on the rule of law and public security, social economic development, and our democratic institutions. In this context, we are committed to institution building and to effective access to justice and to ongoing effective criminal justice responses. We thus creating a more agile, modernized, digitized justice system. We will continue to pursue firm and effective public policies to address transnational organized crime, supported by building the state's capacity into agency coordination and modernizing the operational and technology tools for prevention, investigation, and prosecution. To address the scourge, we need coordinated regional long-term responses. And for this reason, on 28th May, we convened a high-level event in Santiago, bringing together foreign, interior, and security ministers from Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile to boost cooperation and regional coordination with regard to transnational organized crime. Finally, we reaffirm our commitment to effective criminal justice that is close to victims and to building capacity to investigate, while at the same time respecting due process, basic rights, and respect for our international legal obligations. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement. And I now invite His Excellency, Mr. Tofiq Hassan, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. At the beginning, I would like to congratulate you and the members of the Bureau and assure my delegation full support in discharging your responsibilities during this 35th session of the CCPCJ. I also congratulate Ms. Monica Zuma for assuming the charge of Executive Director of the UNODC and Director General of the UN Office in Vienna. delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Asia Pacific group I would like to add the following in my national capacity Bangladesh remains firmly committed in its commitment to the effective implementation of the UN conventions and protocols related to crime prevention and criminal justice we acknowledge ccpcj essential contribution towards promoting global cooperation and shaping robust strategies to tackle the complex challenges of transnational crimes. Bangladesh remains fully committed to play its part. Mr. Chair, Bangladesh recognizes that crime in its many forms threatens development, security, and human dignity. As we navigate an era of evolving security and digital threats, Bangladesh attaches immense importance to the upcoming 15th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. We view the Congress as a pivotal historic milestone to translate multilateral commitments into actionable, resilient strategies that protect developing and climate-vulnerable nations like Bangladesh from criminal ecosystems. By bridging national institutional reforms with global framework advancements, Bangladesh stands ready to actively engage in the Congress's preparations and outcomes, championing inclusive, science-backed, and technologically adaptive criminal justice systems that leave no one behind. Bangladesh, under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Tariq Rahman, aligns its national priorities with international frameworks. In parallel with strengthening law enforcement institutions, Bangladesh is expanding efforts to address root cause of crime, including economic inequality and social marginalization through inclusive policies aimed at sustainable development and social cohesion. In this connection, Bangladesh attaches high importance to capacity building and technical assistance tailored to national needs and priorities. The role of UNODC remains indispensable in supporting Member States through expertise, training, and evidence-based policy-making. Mr. Chair, as a country hosting a large forcibly displaced population, Bangladesh also draws attention to the complex links between displacement, vulnerability, and transnational crime. We encourage the international community to address these challenges through comprehensive, cooperative, and humane responses that share responsibility fairly and equitably. My delegation deplores the rise of hate speech and hate crimes, in particular Islamophobia, around the world, and in this regard, underlines the importance of respect for religious, ethnic, and cultural diversity. We call upon all member states to promote a culture of tolerance and respect among individuals, societies, religions, and nations. In conclusion, Bangladesh reaffirms its strong belief in multilateralism and the central role of this Commission in shaping effective global responses to crime prevention and criminal justice challenges. We stand ready to work constructively with all member states to advance a safer, more just, and more resilient world for present and the future generation. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you for the statement, and I now invite Mr. Carlos Rodimiro Lucero Paz, Magistrate, Supreme Court of Justice of Guatemala, to address the Commission. So you have the floor.

Buenas tardes.

Good afternoon, distinguished delegations, Mr. Chairperson. I greet you on behalf of the Republic of Guatemala. My delegation congratulates the Chair for leading the work of this 35th session period of the CCPCJ. And we also express our thanks to UNOCD, and we seize this opportunity to wish a warm welcome to Ms. Monica Drouma as she takes up her functions as Executive Director of UNODC. We reiterate that Guatemala stands ready to continue developing cooperation with UNODC, and we also thank the Secretariat for its work to prepare this session. Guatemala reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the rule of law, to crime prevention and protecting victims, and to building effective criminal justice systems that are inclusive and that respect human rights. In this context, Guatemala continues to develop its own justice institutions. We have developed specialized jurisdictions for the crimes of femicide and violence against women and sexual violence. And they now cover 22 of our territorial departments. And we have also strengthened mechanisms for comprehensive support to victims. This is psychological, social, and legal support, and this helps to avoid re-victimization. Also, Guatemala has put a priority on holistic a holistic response to human trafficking. This is a transnational phenomenon, and it has a disproportionate impact on vulnerable people, especially women and girls. We believe that preventing crime requires a coordinated vision that goes beyond just criminal responses. and creating opportunities for youth and strengthening families, greater social inclusion and more rehabilitation and reintegration efforts for those in conflict with the law. All of these are essential elements if we want to reduce reoffending and build safer societies. We also recognize the need to strengthen judicial independence, public efforts and institutional integrity. These are key pillars for ensuring continued public trust in the justice system. Mr. Chairperson, we are still facing great challenges, but we remain convinced that a justice system that is focused on people and on prevention and committed to human dignity is the best tool possible to build peaceful, fair and inclusive societies. Guatemala reiterates its commitment to continue working with UNODC and with all members to advance towards this common goal. Finally, my country recognizes the importance of the 15th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. And we hope that it will continue to strengthen international cooperation and be an opportunity for exchange of good practices. Thank you.

Thank you. And then I'll invite His Excellency Mr. Mustafa Kibaroglu, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Turkey to address the Commission. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I congratulate you, Excellency, for your election to chairmanship of the 35th session of the Commission. We also thank the UNODC Secretariat for their efforts in organizing this session. Allow me to welcome the new Executive Director of UNODC, Ms. Monica Jumahatuena, as well. Mr. Chair, Turkey fully supports strong international cooperation in the fight against transnational organized crime, and we take all necessary measures for effective implementation of UNTOC and its protocols. We support the implementation of the mechanism for the review of the implementation. As recommended in the report of the Executive Director, we attach utmost importance in addressing the linkages between organized crime, corruption, and terrorism, including through capacity building, institutional development, and the enhancement of legal and regulatory frameworks. Turkey is an important hub for providing training programs to the requesting states, together with UNODC and other partner countries. Turkish International Academy Against Drugs and Organized Crime, TADOC, has trained over 13,000 law enforcement officers from over 100 countries through more than 700 international training programs. Mr. Chair, as a recent example of Turkey's support to international efforts against transnational crime, Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism, Together with UNODC and its Regional Office for South-Eastern Europe, ROSEE, which was hosted in Istanbul, launched an important project this May on improving the protection of cultural heritage and preventing the exploitation of cultural artefacts in transnational organised crime and money laundering activities in South-Eastern Europe. This is a strong testament to the shared importance we attach to protecting cultural heritage and addressing the challenges posed by its illicit trafficking by serious organized crime. Mr. Chair, Turkey is a committed partner in the global fight against drugs, also through financial contributions to key organizations in the field, including the UNODC and INCB. We are concerned about the global threat posed by synthetic drugs whose trafficking and consumption are on the rise. In this context, we are particularly concerned about trafficking of amphetamine, mainly in the form of Captagon, in our region. We are pleased to note Syrian authorities' determination, together with regional partners, to combat this threat. Mr. Chair, human and drug traffickers, as well as organized crime groups, are also strongly linked with terrorist organizations. The revenue generated from transnational organized crime has become a primary source of terrorist financing. Therefore, Turkey strongly supports that international cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking should also focus on its nexus with terrorism. There is evidence revealing that the PKK terrorist organization has an active infrastructure and network across Europe in this illegal business. Mr. Chair. Turkey is determined to combat migrant smuggling and to manage irregular migration, and fully supports all international cooperation mechanisms in combating human trafficking and takes all necessary measures for effective implementation of UNTOC and its protocols in this regard. Cooperation among countries of origin, transit, and destination is vital to a successful migration management. Turkey has been working closely with UN agencies, namely IOM and UNHCR. We have supported the adoption of both the Global Compact for Migration and Global Compact on Refugees. We are among the champion countries promoting the implementation of GCM. We are an active member of ICMPD and we are co-chair of the Budapest Process since 2006. Mr. Chair, illegal online betting and gambling activities threaten the integrity of the financial system, tax fairness, and the social fabric of our communities. These activities generate high profits with minimal capital and avoid taxation through untraceable payments. Therefore, they have become an attractive tool for organized crime networks. For this reason, these activities are regulated under Turkish law and recently, Turkey has adopted a comprehensive action plan to fight this scourge with the contribution of all stakeholders. We call on our partners to be vigilant and take necessary steps against this phenomenon.

I would like to invite the interested

delegations on the side event on Thursday that will be organized by Turkey with the participation of experts from the UNODC on combating illegal betting in digital age, strengthening legal, technological, and institutional responses. To conclude, let me stress that Turkey will continue to actively participate in the preparation of the 15th Crime Congress that will be held in the UAE. We will continue our efforts against organized crime on national, regional and international levels. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you for this statement. And I now invite Mr. Raphael Faranisi, Secretary for Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage in Zimbabwe, to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, Executive Director, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. Mr. Chairman, I wish to congratulate you on your election to lead us through this process and the other Bureau members. A hearty congratulations and welcome also to our new Executive Director, Ms. Monica Juma, and we wish her the best as she assumes her responsibilities. Chairperson, allow me to convey Zimbabwe's sincere appreciation for the invaluable work of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice and to commend the Secretariat for championing the Commission's mandate of improving international action to combat national and transnational organized crime and promoting the efficiency and fairness of criminal justice administration systems. We also thank the Executive Director and the Secretariat for the informative reports detailing programs and activities undertaken over the course of last year. Chairperson, as I had my national perspective, I wish to associate ourselves with the statement by the Africa Group. Zimbabwe has made significant strides in aligning its domestic crime prevention and criminal justice legal framework with international and regional standards. The country acceded to the African Union Convention on Cybercrime and Personal Data Protection and subsequently domesticated these provisions through the enactment of Cyber and Data Protection Act. This legislative development facilitated the establishment of the Cyber Security and Monitoring Center, thereby enhancing the country's capacity to investigate and prosecute cyber-related offenses in cooperation with Interpol and regional partners. Zimbabwe is also making considerable progress towards ratifying the United Nations Convention against Cyber Crime which we signed in October 2025. This is a testament to the country's commitment to further strengthening its ability to investigate, prosecute, and cooperate internationally in combating cyber crime related criminal activities. Zimbabwe remains formally firmly committed to the implementation of the United Nations Convention against transnational organized crime and its protocols, including the protocol to prevent, suppress, and punish it, punishing traffic, trafficking in persons, especially women and children. In this regard, recent amendments to the Zimbabwe trafficking in persons act have further reinforced victim protection mechanisms and strengthened cross border cooperation. Furthermore, Zimbabwe is ratified both the protocol against corruption and the African Union Convention on preventing and combating corruption, while also enhancing the mandate and operational capacity of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission. Further, Zimbabwe continues to align its legislative framework within regional standards in order to reinforce crime prevention and criminal justice systems. For example, the countries amending the firearms act to ensure conformity with the protocol on control of firearms, ammunition, and other related matters. These amendments seek to strengthen controls over the manufacture, possession, transfer, and tracing of firearms through improved record keeping, marking systems, and enhanced penalties for illicit trafficking and misuse. Chairperson, while we acknowledge the progress achieved so far, Zimbabwe continues to face growing challenges arising from environmental crimes, including wildlife trafficking, illegal mining, and illicit trade in minerals, timber, and hazardous waste. These crimes undermine sustainable development, promote illicit financial flows, threaten biodiversity, and negatively affect community livelihoods while increasingly exhibiting links to transnational organized networks. We are convinced that national environmental courts ensure expeditious adjudication and prosecution of offenders, deterrence sentencing for environmental offenses, and enhancing technical expertise through training. We also call for strengthened international cooperation, enhanced information sharing mechanisms, and increased technical assistance to support investigations, prosecutions and asset recovery efforts in cases involving environmental crimes. Zimbabwe also faces capacity constraints in areas such as digital forensics, mutual legal assistance and asset recovery. Limited resources coupled with increasingly sophisticated criminal methodologies underscore the need for sustained support from the international community. We therefore urge the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and cooperating partners to expand technical assistance programs and facilitate technology transfer to strengthen national capacities. We remain fully committed to working collaboratively with other member states and close existing legal and operational gaps, uphold human rights within criminal justice systems, and ensure that no form of crime, whether cyber-related, transnational, or environmental, goes unaddressed. As I conclude, it would be remiss of us if we did not acknowledge and express with deep gratitude the former executive director, Miss Gada Wally, for her exemplary leadership of UNDOF and UNOV, and we wish her well in her future endeavors. I thank you.

Thank you. And now, invite Her Excellency, Mrs. Manisa Bahtari, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Afghanistan to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Mr. Chair, at the outset, allow me to congratulate you on your election as Chair of the 35th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, as well as the other elected members of the Bureau. I also extend my appreciation to the Secretariat for its excellent preparation for this important session. Allow me also to extend our sincere congratulations to Her Excellency Dr. Monica Dhomas on her appointment as Executive Director of the UNODC and Director General of the United Nations Office at Vienna. We wish her every success in this important responsibility and look forward to sustaining international cooperation under her leadership. Mr. Chair, the principles and objectives of this commission remain critically important for Afghanistan at a time when the country faces profound humanitarian, security, justice, and human rights crises. Since the Taliban's takeover and the collapse of constitutional institutions in August 2021, the erosion of rule of law structures and accountability mechanisms has created conditions that contribute to insecurity, impunity, and various forms of criminal activity. The presence and activities of terrorist and violent extremist groups continue to pose a serious threat to Afghanistan and to regional and international peace and security. At the same time, transnational organized criminal networks continue to exploit existing vulnerabilities through narcotic trafficking, human trafficking, migrant smugglings, and other forms of organized crime. These developments underscore the urgent need for sustained international engagement to support the protection of human rights, strengthen accountability, and address the root causes of insecurity and criminality in Afghanistan. The deteriorating human rights situation remains deeply concerning. Systematic restrictions on fundamental freedoms, access to education and employment, and civic participation continue to affect millions of people. Women and girls remain disproportionately impacted. Their continued exclusion from education, employment and public life has resulted in their systematic removal from social and public spheres. Moreover, Prolonged restrictions and deprivation of fundamental rights have created severe social and psychological consequences. This situation has increased their vulnerability to violence, forced marriages, human trafficking, trafficking in person, and other forms of criminal exploitation, while limiting their access to justice and legal protection. Mr. Chair. The situation in Afghanistan demonstrates that crime prevention, justice, human rights and security remain closely interconnected. We call upon the international community and Member States to strengthen coordinated efforts to protect human rights, combat organized crime, support victims and prevent further deterioration of the situation in Afghanistan. The suffering of the people of Afghanistan should not become normalized, nor should Afghanistan fade from international attention. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you. And I now invite His Excellency Mr. Azzedine Farhane, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Morocco, to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, allow me at first at the outset to congratulate you on your election and to assure you all the full support of the Kingdom of Morocco. Mr. Chair, we meet today at a time when transitional crime is evolving with unprecedented complexity fueled by technological transformation, geopolitical instability, and growing social vulnerability. In this evolving environment, crime prevention and criminal justice must be understood not only as a security imperative, but also an essential condition for preserving human dignity, strengthening social cohesion, and safeguarding international peace and stability. Morocco firmly believes that sustainable security cannot rely exclusively on repression. Lastly, stability is built through resilient institution, inclusive development, and international cooperation founded on shared responsibility and mutual trust. Justice, therefore, must not only sanction unlawful acts, but also promote prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration. It is from this conviction that Morocco has pursued a comprehensive and human-centered approach to crime prevention and criminal justice. Mr. Chair, guided by its long-standing commitment to multilateralism, Morocco continues to contribute actively to international efforts aimed at addressing contemporary criminal challenges. In this regard, Morocco organized in Marrakech the 93rd General Assembly of Interpol in November 2025, bringing together law enforcement authorities from across the world and strengthening operational cooperation, intelligence sharing, and collective response to emerging threats. Morocco also organized, in partnership with UNIDCE, with the United Nations Office Counterterrorism, the first international conference on African victims of terrorism. These initiatives reflect our conviction that the fight against terrorism must always preserve its human dimension by placing the dignity and the voice of victims at the center of international action. In addition, Morocco organized the Western Asia Regional Preparatory Meeting, for the 15th United Nations Congress on crime prevention to be held in Abu Dhabi, which provide an important platform for advancing dialogue and innovative, inclusive, prevention-oriented approach to criminal justice reform. In the same vein, I would like to inform you, Mr. Chair, that Morocco will organize, in partnership with UNHRC, the second International Forum of Prosecutors Countering Human Trafficking and Migration Smuggling, to be held next week. Mr. Chair, at the national level, Morocco continues to modernize its criminal justice system in line with the international standard and human rights principle, especially the new criminal code, which stands in the tool of combating transnational organized crime in line with Palermo Convention by setting up a national observatory for crime. The implementation of alternative sentencing measures, including community service, electronic monitoring and resortive justice mechanism reflects a progressive vision of justice that emphasizes rehabilitation and social reintegration alongside accountability. Regarding migration governance, Morocco continues to implant its national strategy for migration and asylum based on human rights centered approach that promote migrant access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunity. At the same time, Morocco remains concerned, deeply concerned by the rise of migrant smuggling and human trafficking network. In 2025 alone, Moroccan authority dismantled 105 criminal networks involved in irregular migration and trafficking activity, arrested more than 400 smugglers, seized more than 600 fraudulent travel documents, and prevent more than 34,000 irregular migration attempts. Mr. Chair, the fight against terrorism and violent extremism remain at the core of the Morocco national strategy. Over the past two decades, Morocco has developed a multidimensional approach, combating security measures, socioeconomic development. In this regard, Morocco hosts the United Nations Office Counterterrorism and Training in Africa in Rabat, which contributes significantly to capacity building across the African countries. African country continent Morocco is honored to organize just for your information uh Mr. chair during the session next Thursday or side event dedicated to the Moroccan model of the radicalization two decade of reconciliation rehabilitation and prevention we invite all the delegation to attend this event in order to share our experience in multidimensional approach combining security measures, socioeconomic development, institutional reform, and the promotion of moderation and tolerance. In closing, the growing convergence between terrorism, organized crime, trafficking networks, cybercrime, and illicit financial flows demonstrated that no country can address these challenges in isolation. More than ever, we need stronger multilateral cooperation, enhanced technical assistance, and collective response rooted in solidarity, trust, and shared responsibility. Morocco remains firmly committed to contributing actively to the advancement of criminal justice systems that are effective, resilient, human, and fully ensured in the principle of the rule of law and respect of the human dignity. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you for this statement. And I now invite Mr. Tatuk Kumar Muthuvelu, Director, Criminal Investigation Department, Royal Malaysia Police, to address the Commission.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, my delegation warmly congratulates you, Your Excellency Ambassador Rodrigo Bon, on your election as Chair of the 35th Session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. as well as all the other elected members of the Bureau. We assure you of our full support and are confident that under your distinguished leadership, this section will achieve a comprehensive and impactful outcome. My delegation associates itself with the statement by the Group of Asia-Pacific States delivered by His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Khalid Taula, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Malaysia continues to advance structural reforms within its criminal justice system, focusing on strengthening public trust, procedural fairness, and legal empowerment for vulnerable groups. Transnational crime demands collective resolve. Malaysia remains committed to reinforcing regional law enforcement networks in particular within the Southeast Asia region. We wish to highlight the milestone adoption of the Malacca Declaration on Combating Transnational Crime and the Asian Plan of Action 2026-2035, which will anchor our collective security efforts over the next decade.

Mr. Chair.

Corruption remains one of the major global issue that requires effective and and integrated Global Solutions Malaysia continues to strengthen good governance and integrated to fight corruption through the implementation of our national anti-corruption strategy strategies 2024 and 2028 in alignment with the 2025 putrajaya declaration of Southeast Asian anti-corruption agencies we reiterate our call and in line with the provision under the United Nation Convention against corruption to eliminate technical barriers and effectively identify trace freeze and retain elis access to their countries of origin As one of the first signatories to the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime in Hanoi last October, Malaysia is fully committed to tackling digital threats. We look forward to leveraging its framework to deepen international cooperation, operationalize electronic evidence sharing, and utilize its 24/7 cooperation network. Mr. Chair. We cannot separate global criminal justice from grave infractions of international law. Malaysia remains deeply appalled by the systematic atrocities and immense suffering endured by the Palestinian people. The denial of self-determination and the weaponization of humanitarian aid constitutes severe breaches of international humanitarian law. We urge the international community to ensure unimpeded aid delivery to and hold perpetrators fully accountable in accordance with the International Court of Justice rulings and United Nations Secret Council Resolution 2735. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you. And then now, I invite your Excellency, Mrs. Nina Vaskunlahti, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Finland to the Trustee Commission The floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Distinguished Chair, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, first of all, let me begin by congratulating you, Mr. Chair, on your election. I assure you of our full support. I also wish to congratulate Ms. Monica Yuma on her appointment as the Executive Director of the UNODC. We look forward to continuing our cooperation with the Office under her able leadership. Finland fully aligns itself with the statement of the European Union made early on today. I make the following remarks in my national capacity. Mr. Chair, an open, inclusive, rules-based international order remains the cornerstone of global cooperation. At a time when these principles are increasingly challenged, It is essential to reaffirm our shared commitment to international law, the UN Charter, and the universality of human rights. Respect for these norms is not optional. The importance of multilateral cooperation, respect for international law, defending human rights, and strengthening the rule of law are indispensable, also for our ability to prevent crime and tackle organized crime. Seeking solutions together is especially important during the times of reform and financial constraint. International cooperation takes time. It requires patience and compromise from all of us. The UN instruments, including the standards and norms, provide shared minimum benchmarks. They reflect our common values and guide our work. We must continue to invest in constructive, long-term work and cooperation. We also recognize the value of bilateral cooperation for mutual benefit. For example, Finland and Ukraine have cooperated on anti-corruption strategies and promotion of integrity in the education sector. I would like to take this opportunity to commend Ukraine for its successes in tackling crime under wartime conditions. Finland's support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders is unwavering. Mr. Chair, Finland places strong emphasis on crime prevention. It contributes to our common goal to achieve safe and secure societies. Effective prevention requires evaluation and adaptation. Policies must be evidence-based and suited to national contexts. As the global crime landscape evolves, Member States must step up efforts to develop and refine effective crime prevention measures. And finally, I would like to invite all delegations to Finland's side event, Strengthening Evidence-Based Crime Prevention in a Changing World, which will take place on Thursday, 1 p.m., in room M2. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you for this statement. And I now invite Ms. Isabel de Jesus de Costa Godinho, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Angola to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates.

First of all.

I would like to congratulate His Excellency Ambassador Bon on his election as Chair of this section of CCCP-CJ. and wish you a mass success. I would like also like to express my appreciation to the secretariat for preparing this important meeting. Angola aligns itself with the statement delivered by African group and we will wish to add some comments at my national capacity.

Mr. Chair.

Crime trends continues to evolve in a complex and alarming manner, driving by globalization, advance in technology, and increasing sophistication of transnational criminal networks. Criminal activities such as illicit drugs, trafficking human, trafficking tourism, Money laundering, corruption, arms trafficking, cybercrime, and environment crimes.

Pose serious threats to the peace, international security, and sustainable development of countries. In response to this challenge, a renewed effort is needed from all member states. We need to strengthen international cooperation, technical assistance and the sharing of information with a view.

To effectively preventing and combating all forms of organized and transnational crime.

Mr. Chair, the Republic of Angola has been strengthening its legal and institutional frameworks in advance, in accordance with the international and regional conventions.

In doing so, Angola aims to enhance its capacity to prevent and combat crimes, thereby fostering a more effective and inclusive criminal justice system. In this regard, we highlight some of ongoing efforts on implementation of international legal instruments.

In the context of combating corruption, money laundering, and terrorism finance, the Angola government has aimed the law on the the designation and the reinforce of international legal acts.

Which established mechanism for the implementation of financial sanctions and other measures against individuals and groups who engaged in such crimes.

Angola has adopted the law on non-governmental organization with a view to ensure that such entities.

And use misuse and unlawful purposes. Angola established the National Observatory against terrorism, which is responsible for coordinating the collation, analysis, and the change of information to support the prevention and effective combating of the terrorism.

The increasing of.

Use of information and the communication technologies for criminal purposes is also being a matter of particular concern for us. In this regard, Angola signed the convention of cyber crime during the high level ceremony in Hanoi last year, and is currently working towards its ratifications. Angola has adopted the National Cybersecurity Strategy 2024-2028 to support the implementation of the measures in this field. At the same time, the new technology infrastructure will be created in our country. Angola has equally.

Adopted several measures to combat criminal networks involved in the illegal mining of cryptocurrencies and the proliferation of illegal weapons.

Mr. Chair, the Angola delegation underlines the importance of implementing the Kyoto Declaration as a guiding instrument.

For integrated policies on crime prevention, justice reform, and the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies. A key principle in this regard is equal access to justice and the effective implementation of rule of law.

Angola also attaches importance to the prevention of youth crime, the social reintegration.

And the protection of victims, especially women and children, recognizing the preventive approaches focused on human dignity as essential for effective justice system.

Finally, we believe that current challenge and interconnect crisis facing the world required a collective response based on international cooperation, the sharing of best practice, and the respect of international law. I thank you, and I would like to inform that a full version of our declaration is available online. Thank you very much.

Thank you for this statement. And I'd like to ask all speakers again to observe the time limit. And now I invite Mr. Tuan Duc Xu, Deputy Director General, Department of International Law and Treaties, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vietnam, to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, the delegation of Vietnam joins the other delegations in congratulating you on your election and presents to you our full support. Vietnam associates itself with the statement of the Asia Pacific Group. Mr. Chair, excellencies, distinguished delegates, this year's discussion takes place at a time when digital technology are transforming our societies and economies, while also reshaping the landscape of crime. In this context, Vietnam believes that strengthening international cooperation remains not only a shared responsibility, but also a practical necessity. The opening ceremony for the signing of the Convention against Cybercrime in Hanoi in October 2025 marked an important milestone in strengthening the global legal framework against cyber-enabled crime. As one of the early state parties, Vietnam remains committed to supporting the convention's effective implementation and early entry into force. At the national level, Vietnam continues to modernize its legal and institutional framework, promote digital transformation in governance and law enforcement. In Hanoi, a new Asia-Pacific Regional Cyber Crime Center will be founded shortly with the funding of the Government of Vietnam and in cooperation with UNODC to promote the regional cooperation activities in the field of countering cyber crime. We look forward to continue consultation with member states and partners on ways to strengthen collective efforts in implementing the Hanoi Convention and addressing the evolving cybercrime threat landscape. Finally, the number like to underscore the importance of enhanced technical assistance and capacity building for developing countries, particularly in digital investigation anti-money laundering, asset recovery, and electronic evidence management. As we advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Vietnam remains convinced that effective crime prevention, strong criminal justice institutions, and international cooperation are essential foundations for peace, security, and sustainable development. We stand ready to work with all member states, UNODC, and our partners to advance these shared objectives. I do hope that I have kept my statement within the time frame, and the full version of our statement can be found on the website of the conference. I thank you.

Thank you very much. And I now invite His Excellency Ambassador Mr. Marek Szykiel of Poland to address the Commission. Excellency, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, let me start by congratulating you, Mr. Chair, on your election as the Chair of this 35th session of the Commission, and assure you about our full support. I would like also to warmly welcome and congratulate the new Executive Director of UNODC, Dr. Monica Juma, and wish her all the best in her important role. Mr. Chair, Poland aligns itself with the EU statement and wishes to add the following remarks in our national capacity. In times of conflict and instability, threats to the rule of law and disrespect for human rights, compliance with international law and the UN Charter is of particular importance. For this reason, we reiterate our condemnation of the Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, which, apart from human suffering, increased the risk of inter-ally trafficking in persons and illicit firearms flows and other forms of transnational organized crime. We welcome the establishment of the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine and will continue to support Ukraine in criminal justice institutions, including through capacity building, evidence preservation and enhanced cooperation with law enforcement authorities. Poland wishes to reiterate its high appreciation to the UNODC for its invaluable engagement in assisting States in building their capacity in preventing and combating crimes, including the Office's involvement in Ukraine. Mr. Chair, smuggling of illegal migrants continues to be a serious concern. Our approach combines the fight against criminal networks with effective border management and full respect for international law and human rights obligations. We also underline the need to clearly distinguish migrant smuggling from trafficking in human beings, while ensuring that victims of trafficking, especially women and children, receive adequate protection and access to justice. We therefore encourage enhanced operational partnership, including joint investigations, information sharing, and targeted actions against criminal networks along key smuggling routes. At the same time, we believe that among our priorities should be countering and combating cyber threats, the growing phenomenon of online fraud, so-called globalization of crime, combined with very often hybrid attacks and disinformation. Poland is committed to tackling cybercrime through enhanced international cooperation and also as a signatory to the UN Convention against Cybercrime. The Global Fraud Summit held this spring in Vienna provides good momentum to further our efforts in combating this growing problem. Mr. Chair, In conclusion, let me thank the United Arab Emirates for its efforts in preparing for the next UN Crime Congress. We hope that the Congress will provide a meaningful platform to discuss and elaborate concrete solutions in the area of crime prevention and criminal justice. Our appreciation also goes to the civil society and multi-stakeholders for supporting us in these efforts by providing their unique experience and expertise. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you for the statement. And I now invite Mrs. Yael Bitton, Unit Chief, Department of International Affairs, Ministry of Justice of Israel, to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you so much. Honorable Chair, distinguished delegates and colleagues, let me first thank the UNODC and Secretariat for organizing this important meeting of the Commission and to congratulate Executive Director Juma. We look forward to continued cooperation with the UNODC and her leadership. Israel is looking forward to assuming a seat in the Commission as of 2027. and welcomes this opportunity to present recent developments in its criminal justice system that reflect our shared values as part of our commitment to the principles of this Commission. Before doing so, we note with deep concern the alarming rise in antisemitic attacks worldwide targeting Jewish individuals, institutions, and property. This troubling global trend must be addressed with urgency and resolve. As an active partner in the international effort to combat human trafficking, and in line with UNTOC and the TIP protocol, Israel continues to strengthen its anti-trafficking efforts across the three pillars of protection, prevention, and prosecution, striving to strengthen international cooperation in combating these heinous crimes. Israel has set up criminal investigations, indictments, and convictions, particularly in labor trafficking, through a new interagency task force. As of 2025, there has been a massive increase in the number of police-initiated investigations related to core TIP offenses and a dramatic increase in dedicated resources and staffing in all other relevant government agencies. Furthermore, Israel's comprehensive four-year national action plan is well underway. with a current implementation rate of 85%, including an advisory committee, which has led to a significant rise in identification of trafficking victims referred to state support. Moreover, recent legislation expanding legal aid to support trafficking victims has led to a significant increase in the numbers of represented victims by the Ministry of Justice's Legal Aid Administration. Moving on to the critical fields of anti-money laundering, terrorist financing. Israel is working with the UNODC in these critical fields to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and the financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, both in cooperation within the UNODC and with other organizations such as the FATF. and by participating in relevant UN expert groups and regional networks in the fields of asset recovery and international cooperation, such as the GLOBE network. In the field of asset recovery, we note that Israel has recently passed significant legislation amending its legal assistance law, which expands its capacity to offer assistance in enforcing foreign requests for seizure and confiscation, and this has already reaped significant results. Israel also continues to be concerned by the ongoing links between terror organizations such as Hezbollah and organized crime groups, particularly through the trafficking of synthetic drugs such as Captagon, and regional criminal networks to finance terror activities. As part of its ongoing commitment to combat cybercrime, Israel continues to cooperate in formal and informal discussions and in the recent work undertaken to develop the rules of procedure for the implementation of the UN Cybercrime Convention, and is currently examining the possibility of joining this convention. Lastly, Israel is looking forward to the Crime Congress in Abu Dhabi, where we will hold a side event regarding a joint Israeli, Swiss, and Argentinian-sponsored project to develop a toolkit for first responders in terror-related sexual assault cases. We wish our colleagues in the UAE a successful conference. I thank you, and I wish everyone a successful and productive session.

Thank you for this statement. And I now invite Mr. Edi Hartono, head of National Counterterrorism Agency of Indonesia to address the Commission. Sir, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates, excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. Mr. Chairs, I would like to congratulate you on your chairmanship on this 35th CCPCG session and assure our full support and constructive cooperation for the success of the deliberations. Indonesia also warmly congratulates to Mrs. Monica Juma. Indonesia aligns itself with the joint statement on the Asia Pacific group and MICTA, as we share firm support to multilateralism and attach great importance to the international cooperation framework they advocate. This year, our overarching theme leading up the 15th UN Crime Congress align with Indonesia's consistent dedication to accelerate crime prevention, criminal justice, and the rule of law towards 2030 agenda for sustainable development in the digital age Mr chair Global Security and Justice landscape is being reshaped by rapid technological development and the de conference of transnational organized crime the digital age has brought the emergence of new forms of crimes and the growing mutual of technology including in cyber crimes cyber scam and trafficking in persons this all require our coordinate comprehensive and Innovative response in this regard in emphasize the importance of sustained vigilance and strength crossborder cooperation in supporting effective prevention investigation and prosecution efforts. We consider this an opportune moment to assess our collective progress in implementing key international legal frameworks, particularly the UNTOC and its protocol and the UNCAC. Indonesia is currently finalizing the domestic process for the signing of the United Nations Convention against Cyber Crimes. As the reporter, Indonesia has actively contributed and involved in the discussion and negotiation of the convention, and will continue to do so in finalizing the rules of procedure of the conference of the state parties. Therefore, my country strongly encourage all member states to share their experiences and best practices in implementing this convention. Mr. Chair, Indonesia welcomes the growing multilateral discourse on crimes that affect the environment, particularly given the challenges we face in addressing environmental crimes that is organized, transnational, and systematically linked to trafficking in person, money laundering, document fraud, and exploitation of international trade channels. We therefore emphasize the importance of joint efforts, including information sharing and capacity building, and remain positive of multilateral initiatives to address these growing threats. Mr. Chair, Indonesia also underscores its firm resolve to counter terrorism and violent extremism. In its 30th CCPCG session, Indonesia, together with Australia and Italy, initiated and successfully adopted a co-sponsor resolution on the treatment of children associated with terrorism groups, including children who are recruited and exploited by those groups. Indonesia and UNODC continue to explore avenues to ensure the implementation of this resolution. Mr. Chair, on a final note, Indonesia is concluding its 2024 to 2025, 2026 CCPCG membership. We have demonstrated our dedication to upholding the rule of law in combating transnational crime while maintaining active collaboration with fellow member states in collective endeavor. This commitment will not cease, but continue to in changing concrete effort to advance our shared objective in crime prevention and criminal justice. I will end my statement by cordially inviting all member states to attend Indonesia hybrid site, hybrid site event supported by US, United States of and UNODC titled Countering Drug Persecutor Trafficking tomorrow at 10 in M5.

Thank you.

Thank you for the statement. And I now invite His Excellency Mr. Hisham al-Alawi, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Iraq to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

In the name of God, the most merciful, the most compassionate. Excellency Chair of the 35th session of the CCPCJ, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, at the outset, I wish to congratulate you, Chair, upon your election to the chairmanship of the 35th session of the CCPCJ. We seize this opportunity to reiterate our continued readiness to support you and the new UNODC Executive Director. in addition to members of the Bureau, to take to a successful conclusion the current session. We align ourselves to the statement delivered by the Chair of the Asia-Pacific Group, and we confirm our commitment to objectives identified by the 14th Crime Congress. We call for continued efforts for the balanced implementation of the Kyoto Declaration in line with the UN Charter principles. We equally look forward to a positive outcome of the 15th Crime Congress to be held in Abu Dhabi in September. Chair, Iraq underscores its firm commitment to international cooperation in countering all forms of crime, particularly transnational organized crime, terrorism, money laundering, and cybercrime. We firmly believe that the stability and prosperity of states is contingent upon strong and effective criminal justice systems. that respects the rule of law and preserves human rights. Iraq has taken tangible steps towards strengthening national institutions through the modernization of judicial legislations and development of regulatory and security services in line with the UNTAC and the protocols thereto. Equally, we continue exerting national efforts in strengthening transparency and countering corruption as they underpin sustainable development in line with the 2030 agenda. I wish to highlight efforts made by the Iraqi government in cooperation with the UNODC in countering trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants through the implementation of several projects, including the Container Control Program, which seeks to address all forms of illicit trafficking that passes through our land, maritime, and air border crossings, in addition to the global program on countering trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants in Asia and the Middle East in cooperation with EU member states. On preventing and countering terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, the Government of Iraq underscores the importance of expanding regional cooperation and strengthening international responses in line with national legislations and in implementation of the UNTOC, in addition to all regional and international instruments that are in effect relevant to countering terrorism. This constitutes a comprehensive, balanced, and effective means provided through the global UN strategy on countering terrorism. We highlight the importance of the Strive Juvenile project that prevents violence against children and addresses the exposure thereof of to extreme thought as they are deemed to be associated to ISIL. This through strengthening the capabilities of law enforcement and criminal justice staff and developing the capabilities and skills of the juvenile in preparation for their social integration. We underscore the importance of international cooperation in line with this joint responsibility to counter transnational organized crime, which threatens our security undermines the rule of law and hinders sustainable development. In this context, we welcome the adoption by the UN General Assembly of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime. We are constructively participating in negotiations on the development of draft rules of procedure in line with UN General Assembly resolution and international efforts to counter cybercrimes and this for the purpose of a safer digital environment. Ladies and gentlemen, despite these grave challenges, we continue reforming the criminal justice sector, including correctional and rehabilitation centers, training of the judiciary staff, strengthening regional and international cooperation in information sharing and mutual legal assistance. We seize this opportunity to reaffirm the importance of technical support delivered by the UN ODC. And we look forward to strengthening this partnership in line with Iraq's national priorities. in fields including countering drugs and organized crime, as they constitute ever-increasing challenges that require international solidarity at transnational levels. To conclude, countering crime is not a mere national responsibility. Rather, it is a collective one that requires close coordination and cooperation. Therefore, we call on Member States and international society institutions to provide technical assistance in support to countries in transition to ensure true justice. We support all decisions and initiatives that strengthen the role of the CCPCJ and the UNODC and expanding bilateral, regional and international cooperation in criminal matters to counter transnational organized crime, corruption, terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, in addition, in the field of extradition, and mutual legal assistance. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement. And now I invite Mr. Muyiwa Onifade, Charg d'Affaires of the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Mr. Chair. Nigeria congratulates you on your election and assures you of our full support in steering the work of this Commission. We also congratulate Her Excellency Ms. Monica Juma on her appointment as Director General of UNODC and Executive Director of UNODC. Nigeria aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the African Group. We remain firmly committed to strengthening crime prevention and criminal justice systems through sustainable, inclusive, science-based, and evidence-driven approaches. In line with this commitment, we continue to strengthen our legislative, institutional, and operational frameworks to better respond to evolving security and crime challenges while upholding the rule of law and promoting sustainable development. Mr. Chair, my delegation is concerned by the persistent threats posed by terrorism, illicit drug trafficking, and other transnational organized crimes. These threats continue to undermine peace, security, and socioeconomic development, particularly in vulnerable communities. In response, Nigeria has intensified law enforcement operations aimed at dismantling terrorist cells, disrupting trafficking networks, intercepting illicit substances, and degrading the operational capabilities of criminal groups. Nigeria recognizes the increasing threat posed by cybercrime and the criminal misuse of information and communication technologies, including the exploitation of emerging technologies to perpetrate illicit acts. Domestically, Nigeria continues to strengthen its frameworks to enhance cybercrime prevention, as well as promote digital literacy and online safety awareness. Nigeria's efforts are guided by its amended 2024 Cybercrime Acts, which provides a legal framework for the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of cyber-related offenses while protecting critical national information infrastructure. Nigeria also continues to strengthen efforts to combat trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants through the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTI. while also addressing crimes affecting the environment, including illegal mining, illicit trafficking of minerals, crude oil theft, illegal logging, wildlife crimes, and pollution-related offenses, given their increasing links with organized criminal networks and security. Nigeria underscores the importance of technical cooperation, technology transfer, and sustained technical capacity for developing countries in addressing these crimes and strengthening their criminal justice systems. Enhanced cooperation and capacity building remain essential to enabling effective national responses to evolving criminal threats. Mr. Chair, the statement delivered by the delegation of the United States regarding the growing threat of sextortion, including a reference made to Nigeria, is noted. Our nations will continue to coordinate bilaterally, as we've done on this issue. We are deeply concerned by the disturbing rise in cases of sextortion and other forms of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation and abuse, which have caused death and significant distress to victims, particularly young persons and vulnerable groups, locally and globally. We unequivocally condemn these reprehensible criminal acts and reiterate our commitment to identifying, prosecuting and dismantling the criminal networks involved. It is important to mention that Nigeria has significantly intensified efforts to combat this menace through a coordinated multi-agency approach involving intelligence-led investigations, arrests, prosecutions, and enhanced international cooperation. Nigeria continues to strengthen its framework for cybercrime prevention, digital investigations, online safety awareness, and international law enforcement collaborations. Nigeria has continued to cooperate closely with international partners, including the United States, in facilitating extradition requests relating to sextortion and cyber-enabled crimes. In this regard, a number of Nigerian nationals have been extradited to the United States between 2023 and 2026 to face prosecution. Most recently, in February 2026, a Nigerian national, Afiz Olatsunji Adewale, was extradited to the United States and handed over to the US Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania to face charges related to sextortion and the tragic death of a young American victim. Furthermore, in March 2026, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission secured convictions in Lagos on charges bordering on cyberstalking, blackmail, and money laundering linked to cyber-enabled crimes. Nigeria will continue to coordinate and cooperate on intelligence sharing and technical support with the United States and other UN member states to effectively address sextortion as well as other transnational organized crimes. We emphasize that cybercrime is global, borderless in nature, and must be addressed through collective and actionable cooperation, including timely sharing of telecommunications data, financial intelligence, and electronic evidence necessary for investigation and prosecution across jurisdictions. I thank you.

Thank you for the statement. And now I have the pleasure to invite Her Excellency, Mrs. Maria Ojeda Echeverria, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Peru to address the Commission. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. And first of all, I would like to congratulate you on chairing this session. You can count on the support of my delegation for success in your work. Peru reiterates its firm commitment to strengthening multilateralism and international cooperation to combat transnational organized crime, which continues to affect the rule of law and democratic institutions and sustainable development. We are concerned at the growing convergence between drug trafficking and other forms of crime, such as human trafficking and illicit smuggling of migrants and firearms, corruption and illegal mining and logging, wildlife trafficking, money laundering, organized fraud and illicit financial flows. All of this is also impacting particularly the Amazon and is affecting the security and the rights of vulnerable populations, including indigenous peoples. In this context, we need to strengthen international legal frameworks and specialized criminal justice systems and national policies against organized crime and drug trafficking, human trafficking and cybercrime and money laundering in line with the relevant international instruments and in full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. At the regional level, We are implementing the Andean Community Decisive Action Plan and taking active part in the Amazon Cooperation Treaty framework, where we had the subcommittee on combating environmental crime. Peru also chairs the UNTOC Intergovernmental Expert Group on Crimes Affecting the Environment. The conclusion of its work did not produce consensus-based recommendations, but did identify precisely the existing gaps in the international legal framework and the limits of the multilateral environmental agreements to address this kind of crime. And it explored concrete solutions to strengthen the multilateral response to these challenges, including the possibility of an additional protocol to the convention, an initiative that Peru supports. Peru also took active part in the Global Anti-Fraud Summit 2026 and reaffirmed the need to address organized and digital fraud, taking a transnational organized crime lens. Mr. Chair, to conclude, Peru calls on the Member States to use this 35th CCPCJ as a strategic opportunity to continue strengthening international cooperation and to work for more effective, coordinated and sustainable responses to the current challenges of transnational organized crime and its illicit economies. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement. And now I have the pleasure to invite His Excellency Mr. Peter Potman, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Netherlands, to address the Commission. Excellency, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

And let me start by congratulating you on the assumption of your important office leading the proceedings of this important Commission. Mr. Chairman, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, the Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns fully with the statement of the European Union that has been made. We meet at a time when criminal actors are more agile, daring and innovative, especially online. They exploit conflict, inequality and vulnerability across borders and jurisdictions. Our response must therefore be international, coordinated and integrated with the whole of society effort. This makes our cooperation within the UN, within UNODC and here in the CCPCJ more vital than ever. The Netherlands will continue to support UNODC and this Commission. We welcome this opportunity to underscore several of our priorities in the fight against crime. First, detention. Everywhere in the world, continued criminal conduct in detention, especially by high-end organized crime, poses a serious threat. We must, therefore, find appropriate ways to obtain information and intelligence from prisons for use in investigations and proceedings. Such insights can help provide the missing pieces needed to dismantle criminal networks and protect witnesses, victims and officials. Secondly, public-private partnerships. Public-private partnerships are of great value in combating crime. In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, combating organized crime cannot be tackled by governments alone. By aligning incentives and capabilities, public-private partnerships can help detect harmful developments earlier, disrupt illicit financial flows and logistics, and scale effective prevention. Together with private sector and civil society partners, we can create impact at scale. Thirdly, protecting children and safeguarding victims. The online recruitment and grooming of minors by criminal networks is a fast-evolving threat. We must prevent organized youth crime, empower individuals and communities to intervene early and break intergenerational cycles of offending. We also need nuanced responses for recruiters and exploiters who may themselves be victims. In addition to the priorities mentioned, the Kingdom of the Netherlands also focuses on close cooperation within its own kingdom. The Netherlands and the three Caribbean countries in the Kingdom work closely together in law enforcement. Due to their geographical location and relatively high standards of living, the islands are continuously confronted with relatively high levels of drug-related crime, human trafficking and smuggling, trafficking in firearms, as well as the migration consequences of crises in the region. The challenges we face on the European mainland differ from those in our Caribbean parts, which is why we look forward to the UNODC side event, Advancing Penal Reform in Island Contexts: Perspectives from the Caribbean and the Pacific, on Wednesday at 1 o'clock in the afternoon, with the participation of our Minister of Justice of St. Martin. Finally, we thank the UNODC Secretariat for preparing this session and extend a warm welcome to its new Executive Director, Mrs. Monica Juma. We value her leadership and look forward to close cooperation. Thank you very much.

Thank you for this statement. And our next speaker is His Excellency, Mr. Magdi Ahmed Mofadel El-Nour, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sudan. Excellency, You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. In the name of God, most compassionate, most merciful. Mr. Chair, first of all, I would like to commend your wise leadership of our commission, and we look forward to cooperating with you and with your bureau. We would like also to welcome Ms. Monica Juma, the executive director of the UNODC and the director general of the UNOV, wishing her all success in her sublime and noble task. We would like also to thank the Secretariat for the efforts they made towards the preparation for this session. Mr. Chair, we would like to align ourselves with the statement that was delivered on behalf of the African Group, and in our national capacity, we would like to make the following remarks, Mr. Chair. Since we met in May 2025, my country has made strides in promoting security, stability, crime prevention, and criminal justice. More than 4 million IDPs and refugees have come back home. The federal government, as well as the United Nations country office, as well as a number of diplomatic missions, have returned to the capital, Khartoum. We have also created the Transparency and Integrity Commission, and we launched the Cyber Security Authority. Meanwhile, Khartoum Airport has resumed receiving domestic flights and some international flights. And as a result of those efforts, we have promoted crime prevention and criminal justice systems, and the public prosecution resumed its work in the regions that have been liberated from the insurgents in the states of Khartoum and Gezira. Also, the National Committee for Investigating Crimes and Violations of International Law and International Humanitarian Law have resumed its work. Meanwhile, the police have retrieved the civil registry data and criminal fingerprint, in addition to resuming work in all courts, police precincts, prisons, correction facilities in the regions that have been liberated from insurgents. We have also arrested a considerable number of prisoners that have been released by the terrorist militia when they occupied some those regions. Mr. Chair, notwithstanding all these positive developments, still crime prevention and criminal justice organizations continue to face real challenges in resuming their work in the five states of Darfur and in the regions that are controlled by insurgents in Western and Northern Kordofan. That's why we look forward to the support of the international community to our efforts in recovery and reconstruction of criminal justice system after the sabotage, vandalization, and the looting and systematic looting that was perpetrated by the insurgent militia. And we also look forward to your contribution to promoting the capacities of these institutions to counter transnational crimes, as well as the world drug problem, terrorism, prevalence of weapons, and cyber crime. would like to draw your attention to the unprecedented repercussions on international and regional peace because of or due to the activities of the insurgents as a number. of people in Sahel and in the Horn of Africa have been killed because they were recruited as mercenaries. And this led to very serious threats to international and regional security. Also, this insurgency contributed to the prevalence of weapons in a demographically diversified region where no natural borders exist between countries, in addition to the weak border control and the existence of active terrorist groups in some of the neighboring countries. And this created a situation similar to that which emerged in the wake of the Libyan regime collapse in 2011. And in this regard, we would like to refer you to the Cameroonian media reports that reported recently the seizure of drones on their way to insurgency. in Chad, in addition to the activities of smuggling of migrants, and Sudanese young people have constituted the majority of illicit and illegal illegal migrants to Mediterranean Basin and this is a serious threat to the European Union and its neighborhood. Also, the victims of human trafficking are used as mercenaries in Latin America. This opens the door for the spillover of this crime to other regions if those involved in the recruitment, funding, transfer, and deployment of mercenaries are not deterred by international community. It has become evident beyond any shade of doubt that the ongoing atrocities, crimes of war, and crimes against humanity and genocide in our country is due to the direct and continuous support that is received by the militia by the country that is supposed to host the UN 15th Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice and to the disregard by international, by some international actors of those crimes. That's why my delegation reiterates its principled, its Its principal stance that a country that is involved in war crimes and crimes against humanity and which assiduously violates Security Council 1970 resolution, which imposes arms embargo to Libya, and the Security Council Resolution 1591, which violated the arms trade treaty, is not ethically qualified to host such a congress. And holding the upcoming congress in that country constitutes a blow not only to the credibility of the Congress, but also to the reputation and the image of the United Nations. Mr. Chair, in conclusion, I would like to invite all delegations to participate in the side event that is organized by the CDDN's mission to the UNODC in collaboration with the UNODC on crime prevention. and criminal justice in crisis, the experience of the Sudan, on Wednesday, 3rd of June 2026 at 8:00 a.m. Mr. Chair, we would like our statement to be put on the record of this session. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you for this statement. And next speaker is Mrs. Fatou Angelique Bissah Alternate Permanent Representative of Burkina Faso, Madam, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chairperson. Burkina Faso congratulates you on your election, and we would like to assure you of our full cooperation. Burkina Faso endorses the statement by the African Group, and we would like to share the following comments in our national capacity. We take note of the reports provided by the Secretariat, and we welcome the focus on trends and new challenges in criminality and crime prevention and criminal justice responses. Combating terrorism continues to be a priority for Burkina Faso. Terrorism poses an existential threat to peace, security, and institutional stability in the Sahel, especially in the countries of the Alliance of Sahel States, namely Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. In light of the increasingly sophisticated methods of terrorists and criminals, our response must be comprehensive, and it must encompass trafficking in firearms, money laundering, drug trafficking, trafficking in persons, and the other forms of transnational organized crime. We therefore welcome the Connect Initiative, and we reiterate our ambition to strengthen cooperation in implementation of programs that are adapted to the real needs of our countries. Burkina Faso faces new challenges of a security nature related to the use of improvised explosive devices and drones. for terrorist purposes. We therefore welcome the efforts made by UNODC, together with the Sahel countries and those of West Africa, in terms of countering these threats. Thanks to the operational and strategic measures undertaken by Burkina Faso, significant results have been recorded, notably a significant reduction in violence, with a significant reduction in terrorist attacks and military and civilian casualties. Control is being reestablished over more than 74% of the national territory. 600 plus educational and health establishments have been reopened, and a million internally displaced persons have returned home. We also recovered significant quantities of firearms. Chairperson, Burkina Faso is now exemplary in terms of how we support victims of terrorism. Moreover, we continue with our preventive efforts via youth outreach, combating radicalization, and stronger anti-corruption laws, and enhanced cooperation between judicial and law enforcement authorities. Chairperson, it remains essential to strengthen international cooperation and technical assistance for developing countries so as to consolidate the capacities of judicial bodies and judicial chain stakeholders encountering all forms of crime. The longer version of this statement will be published on the UNODC website. Thank you.

Thank you for this statement. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, We are nearing the end of today's meeting and we received a number of requests for right of reply during the day. And before we suspend the meeting, I would like to give the floor to the distinguished delegate of the United States of America to exercise the right of reply in accordance with the Rule of Procedures 45 of the Rules of Procedures. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States is exercising its right of reply in response to a statement made by the delegation of Cuba. Cuba's statement on the embargo is categorically false. There are multiple exemptions and authorizations under the U.S. embargo on Cuba, and the United States has for decades permitted the export of agricultural products, medicine, medical devices, and other goods. Economic sanctions can be a lawful, legitimate, important, appropriate, and effective tool for responding to malign activity and addressing serious threats to peace and security. The United States is not alone in that view or in that practice. US sanctions programs are focused on constraining the ability of bad actors to take advantage of our financial system or threaten the United States, our allies, and partners. or citizens, not on preventing bona fide humanitarian-related trade, assistance, or activities. The United States would also like to exercise our right of reply in response to a statement made by the delegation of Malaysia regarding Palestinians. In the months since the historic ceasefire, we have made tremendous progress on implementing President Trump's 20-point peace plan. The whole world supports this peace, and we will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to realize it. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you. And I understand there's a second request for a right of... Uh-huh. Yeah. Then we will first give the floor to Cuba to answer directly to the right of reply of the US. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. And it is regrettable to hear from the delegation of the United States once again lies here at this commission. This has become a common practice for the United States. And there is no form, no way to deny the blockade, the economic, commercial, and financial blockade that has been imposed by the United States on Cuba. For more than six decades, the United States government has found pretexts to try to justify its criminal behaviour in this regard, and it is using all kinds of measures to convert this economic coercion, this intimidation, this diplomatic intimidation, these threats into a, try to make it a respectable form of foreign policy. But no person, no family, no one in Cuba is immune from the devastating impacts of this blockade. And these executive orders the executive order of President Trump in January and in May, what's more add to this and just continuing in a similar form. What I can say here is that these executive orders, this blockade is causing deaths. This is causing deaths. This is reflected in the infant mortality rate in Cuba, which has gone up from four to nine and also the life expectancy, the number of children with cancer, which has also increased. This isn't collateral damage, these aren't isolated cases, this is something that's happening every day, these are human beings and it is terrible that this suffering is taking place. And so we would call upon all of you to recognize as a fact the General Assembly, the immense majority of Member States have recognized the impact of this blockade by the United States and to call on it to end, to end the implementation of this blockade against Cuba and to end all of the threats that are being made to the international community to implement these sanctions against my country. Thank you.

Thank you. I'd like to remind delegations to keep right of replies short. Again, there was a second request for a right of reply on a different issue by the United Arab Emirates. I'd like to give the floor to UAE. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you for giving us the floor to practice the right of reply to the Sudan. The UAE categorically reject any attempt to distort the facts and we say always that the priority should be given to the protection of civilians, humanitarian access and to put an end to any violations notwithstanding the perpetrators thereof. We also fully engage in peace that gives priority to the interest of the people of the And as regards the statement by the authorities of Port Sudan, actually, the representative who is a representative of a party to the conflict in the Sudan, actually, it is better for them to rather contribute to putting an end to the conflict in the Sudan and to achieve an unconditional truce instead of using international scenes and theaters to accuse other countries. And the responsibility of war should be shouldered by the belligerent parties that should seriously engage in a path that gives priority to the interest of the people of the Sudan before any other considerations. And in this regard, we would like to say that the hosting by the UAE of the UN 15th Congress on Crime Prevention. and criminal justice has been widely accepted and supported internationally based on General Assembly resolution 78/223. which welcomed the hosting by the UAE of the UN 15th Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi in 2026 and the General Assembly Resolution number 79 on 186 of 17th of December 2024, whereby the UN 15th Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice was decided to be held in Abu Dhabi from 26th of September until 1st of October 2026. Therefore, we do reiterate that it's important to keep this and to focus and highlight this paragraph welcoming the Congress, and we do not agree and we do not accept any rejection of the same by a party to the ongoing war in the Sudan. Thank you.

And I see that Sudan is again requesting the floor for another right of reply. And-- This is the first. Yeah.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, for giving me the floor in exercise of our right to reply to the statement delivered by the delegation of the chiefdom of Abu Dhabi.

In this respect, I would like just to mention some reports.

That have been.

Published in the last couple of months regarding the involvement of the United Arab Emirates in supporting the RSF terrorist militia. Firstly, on the 10th of February 2026, Reuters published a report about the role of United Arab Emirates in establishing a military training camp for RSF rebels in Ethiopia. Secondly, in May this year, the respected German Institute for International Studies.

WPS, published a report entitled "The Destabilizing Role of the United Arab Emirates in Africa." Last week.

Recently, last week, United Arab Emirates Human Rights Watch published a report about the role of UAE in supporting RSF rebels through recruitment and deployment of mercenaries. The report is entitled, "From Bogota to the Far ****." the UAE's role in the deployment of Colombian fighters and other backing to the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan. This is, Your Excellency, dear colleagues, this is just a glimpse of the reports that have been published in the last couple of months, which clearly

shows beyond any doubt.

Continued support of the country which is support supposed to host the 15th crime Congress in supporting the terrorist rsf militia in Sudan such a country which violates International law International human rights law and arms treaty.

As well as Security Council resolutions on arms embargo is not entitled to.

Host an international conference on fighting crimes I wish you all the best thank you for your kind attention.

Thank you I understand that the United Arab Emirates asked for another right of reply. As this is the second right of reply, I'd like to remind you and others that the extended Bureau meeting has decided that there will be only two rights of reply, and the second one very short, one minute. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We have listened again to the representative of Port Sudan. He is trying to use this international event to divert our attention from the tragedy of the Sudanese people, because this war continues to claim the lives of civilians and the civilian infrastructure. However, the authorities of Port Sudan continue to continue their propaganda and their misinformation and the accusations that and in 31st of May the Sudan have killed dozens of people including children by drones in Western Kordofan and this tragically reminds us that Sudanese civilians still pay the price of this war every day also we cannot disregard the attack that was launched by the authorities of Port Sudan on cargoes affiliated with the World Food Program in Darfur. Thus, they disrupt humanitarian access to millions of Sudanese. And at the time when millions of the Sudanese are facing famine and insecurity, the international community should actually should remind the authorities of Port Sudan of who is the party that refuses to take the opportunity of ceasefire. By the way, they said we don't need more accusations. We only need courageous decisions to put an end to this war and to put an end to the ongoing suffering. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you. Do I see a second request for the floor by Sudan? Again, as I said, Two writers of reply, and the second one, very short, one minute. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

As I said, I have not brought anything or any accusations from my side. I just enumerated some reports by respected NGOs, media outlets, all things about the role of the UAE in supporting the rebels. All this, I have not delivered anything from our side. If the UAE is concerned about the life of the innocent Sudanese people, it should have stopped its support for these terrorist groups, which have killed just in three days, in three days in October last year, mass the rsf killed and slaughtered more than 6,000 civilians more than 6,000 Sudanese civilians have been massacred by this terrorist group which is still is receiving Financial diplomatic military and political support from the UAE I thank you Mr. chair for your kind attention.

Thank you. Dear delegates, excellencies, we have now reached the end of this session. Tomorrow we will resume agenda item 3 and finish the list of speakers for the general debate. We will then consider agenda item 4, which is strategic management, budgetary and administrative questions, and agenda item 6, integration and coordination of efforts by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and by Member States in the field of crime prevention and criminal justice. And with this, the meeting is adjourned. Thank you.