(5th meeting) Preparatory Committee for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, Second Session

Good morning everyone, Excellencies, distinguished delegates.

I call to order the

fifth meeting of the second session of the Preparatory Committee for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development. I invite the Committee to continue its consideration of agenda item 4/b, preparations for the Conference, substantive preparations. Before we begin the two interactive discussion scheduled for this morning, as announced yesterday evening, we will hear the remaining speakers on interactive discussion three on international development cooperation. Speakers who wish to participate in the following interactive discussion on science, technology and innovation are invited to press the microphone button now so that we can gauge the number of speakers and adjust the time limit as necessary. I remind the remaining speakers on International Development Cooperation of the time limit of two and a half minutes, which will be strictly implemented, including through microphone cut-off. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of UNDP to be followed by the representative of CSO4, which is AIVON International.

Thank you very much. I'm speaking on behalf of the International Aid Transparency Initiative, which is hosted by UNDP. Chair, I would like to thank the co-facilitator for articulating the key issues and actions on international development cooperation. However, I wish to raise the critical issue of transparency of official development aid in the international development cooperation framework. I would like to propose a strengthening of the language in the element paper. There is no doubt that accurate information and evidence is critical for building trust within the international development cooperation process. It is within this framework that the international community created and launched in 2008 at the high level forum of aid effectiveness held in Accra, Ghana, the multi-governmental initiative with over 107 member countries to promote transparency of aid. Since then, it has significantly built evidence base and captured trillions of dollars of development aid spending through governments, MDBs, foundations, NGOs and more. Now, almost 90% of the ODA is already captured in IATI data open standard. These data should be leveraged for effective development cooperation at country level. As we speak, several countries are leveraging these granular and traceable data to exercise their country ownership, to align aid data with national priorities, and to ensure effective coordination at the time when aid is fragmented. and delivery mechanism has become more complex. In addition, IRT data is updated by its over 1,700 publishers regularly, offering us near real-time and forward-looking data which is being used for national budgets and development cooperation reports and effective cooperation. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda outcome document recognized and noted the effort of the International Aid Transparency Initiative and therefore chair in the element paper and FFD outcome document, we call upon this effort to be recognized adequately and reflected sufficiently. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of UNDP, and now I give the floor to the representative of Ibon International to be followed by the representative of IADB.

Thank you, Chair. I'm Jennifer Malonzo of Even International, speaking on behalf of the CSO of the mechanism. We welcome references in the elements paper which we'd like to see in the final outcome about setting concrete and binding time frames on existing ODA targets. about country programmable aid and increased use of budget support. Long-standing commitments on ODA quantity, quality, and impact repeated over the years could be the building blocks of more ambition at FFD4 through a binding convention on international development cooperation that establishes obligations instead of voluntary promises. We strongly endorse Zambia's proposal to agree on a convention on international development cooperation, including a mechanism to fulfill aid debt. We also welcome the call of G77 and China for a transparent and inclusive process under the UN to agree on an understanding of parameters and objectives of ODA flows. FF4 should agree on broadening the normative role of UN in development cooperation through a convention. We are encouraged by the inclusion of a section on reforming the architecture in the 11th paper, but the proposals did not match the headings ambition and merely reiterate the undemocratic updated status quo. The development cooperation architecture urgently needs fundamental changes to democratize governance and ensure transparent, accountable, and inclusive decision making. At present, its governance, whether North-South, South-South, or triangular, is needlessly fragmented and should be reimagined. The question of governance is also relevant to MDB reform. The proposals in the 11th paper on MDBs fall short on this. We endorse the call of member states like the G77 and China and Brazil for a review and reform of MDBs. We call on the UN to establish an intergovernmental process on MDBs as a more democratic space to discuss MDB governance reforms, the mandate of the institutions, and accountability towards an overhaul of the international public finance architecture. The FFD process is not a place to endorse decisions taken by a selective and self-appointed group of countries like the G20. Moreover, country democratic ownership must be upheld. We emphasize that Southern countries should lead their and financing strategies, not just their development cooperation plans. The UN has a role to play in revitalizing the effectiveness agenda and universalizing.

I thank you, and I would like to give the floor to IADB, followed by CSO5.

Good morning, chairs and delegates. At the Inter-American Development Bank, we welcome the Elements Paper and stand ready to contribute to an ambitious and actionable FFD4. Thank you for this opportunity. We are already implementing ambitious reforms in our institution called Impact Plus to better address national, regional, and global challenges. We are also working as a system with other MDBs in an unprecedented way. We issued a joint viewpoint note with concrete deliverables to increase our impact and scale. To maximize synergies towards Seville, it would be important to align efforts with the viewpoint note and the G20 MDB roadmap recommendations and calls to actions. We have three comments focusing on innovative financial instruments with potential to increase public and private investments to close the SDG financing gap. First, Seville can be a landmark for channeling SDAs to MDBs. to fight hunger and poverty among other. We developed a solid proposal with the African Development Bank and with your support, we can implement this powerful tool. Second, on blended finance, MDBs are developing instruments to encourage private investment by mitigating currency risk. We should advance in three complementary solutions. One, improve the scale and cost of foreign exchange hedging. Second, enhance local currency lending, and three, foster long term domestic market development. A leading case to replicate is Eco Invest in Brazil, supported by IDB and the World Bank. And finally, we propose to scale and expand results-based instruments that incentivize measurable SDG investments. We can share the experience of our pioneering program, IDB CLIMA, which rewards nature and climate outcomes and will operate in 10 countries soon. Before closing, let me underscore the relevance we give to enhancing development effectiveness. FFD4 can catalyze progress on how development partners work with countries on the ground to be more impactful and agile, including by supporting country-led platforms. Thank you very much for this opportunity.

Thank you, CS05, and then CS02, please.

Thank you.

My name is Isabel Miguel, representing the FFAD civil society group in Spain. The points in the paper provide a good starting point, but it could be considerably improved. Firstly, cooperation is a very challenging area, with 07 commitments that have been once again not met. This is unallowable. We may have to establish goals and specific schedules. Cooperation is important, particularly for low income countries. They play a fundamental role, driving towards the SDGs and having a fair transition to sustainable development. They have to be at the centre stage. Gender equality, eradication of poverty and combating many disparities have to be there, as well as the role of civil society. The narrative has to change. We rely on our partners in civil society when it comes to ideas of a more just way of reparations for the damages of colonialism and neo colonialist practices. Secondly, the actual structure of governance and policies for cooperation are obsolete and need reform. The hand that holds the pen writes the history, and here it's the rules of the game that are written that are more for vested interests in political inequality. The most recent changes in the CDF regarding ODA have had important effects on volumes of aid and bilateral and various priorities when it comes. The Seville conference, fourth conference, will be a vital opportunity here moving towards international cooperation for development. And then thirdly, the items of four points firstly, climate funding has to be there, then we mustn't have a basis on loans but rather reparation, new forms of conditionality and structural adjustment must be tied to structural changes for climate, we have to focus on the climate element, we have to acknowledge that the climate change is not it has to affect the South and the South has to pay in an equitable manner in line with the principles established.

CSO2, please, you have the floor.

I'm delivering this statement on behalf of Aralis Bellarini from World Vision and of the NGO Committee on Financing for Development. Excellencies, distinguished delegates and partners, We first wish to acknowledge the intent in the Elements Paper to reinforce previous FFD outcomes without backtracking on those commitments and strengthen existing efforts and ongoing reforms by various stakeholders. This is critical to ensure the continuity and integrity of the 2030 Agenda. We are however concerned with the total absence of children and the child-centered approaches committed to in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, where investing on children is one of the priorities. We believe that by emphasizing child-specific aid markers, equitable access to services, and climate resilience for children, FFD4 can address systemic inequalities and uphold the rights of the most vulnerable. This approach aligns with the Addis Ababa Action Agenda's call for inclusive and equitable financing. We recommend the following, first, strengthen the existing proposals for improving financial governance by adopting a child specific ODA tracker. A child-specific ODA tracker can ensure financial flows translate into impactful outcomes for children. Global standards for development aid must include mandatory child rights impact assessments for funding decisions, ensuring that aid effectively targets children's needs. Second, scale up ODA funding for child-focused programs. Commit to a minimum 10% annual increase in ODA for child-focused health, education, nutrition, and protection programs. Such funding is essential for comprehensive support and will yield substantial long-term returns in economic growth and societal well-being. well-being. Third, integrate child-specific metrics in the interagency task force on financing for development. This integration in the annual reports will ensure FFD accountability and strengthen alignment with SDG goals. Thank you.

Distinguished delegates, we have just heard the last speaker in interactive discussion three. So now I invite the committee to proceed to its fourth interactive discussion on science, technology and innovation. I will now open the floor for the interactive discussion. Delegations wishing to take the floor should request it now. I would like to remind speakers of the time limit of three minutes for interventions in order to give all those wishing to speak the opportunity to take the floor. And in order to keep track of time, a countdown clock is visible on the screen to alert speakers when it is time to conclude their statements. The microphone will be automatically deactivated when the time limit has elapsed. Speakers on behalf of groups should inform the Secretariat in order to be given precedence in the order of speakers. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Singapore, followed by Brazil. Please, Singapore, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. I speak on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. The group thanks the co-facilitators for their work on this section of the elements paper, and we take this opportunity to reiterate some of the group's submissions in preparation for the zero draft. We are encouraged by the references in the Elements Paper for enhanced national and international cooperation for SDI development, and would like to reiterate that we would also need effective coordination between technology and other sectors, between public and private actors, and across all levels to steer technological change towards addressing pressing development challenges. FFD4 should encourage the development of digital competencies of public officials and institutions of developing countries and mobilize public and private funds in support of capacity building to address rapid technological change and take actions to prevent brain drain in developing countries. We should ensure an efficient, adequate, balanced, and effective intellectual property framework, which encourages access to STI by developing countries, including through better use of existing and exploring further potential flexibilities. One area not touched on was the need to eliminate unfair practices, such as anti-competitive behaviors, and to foster an open, non-discriminatory, fair, and inclusive environment for scientific and technological development. SDI policies should guide technological development to be labor complementary rather than labor replacing, directing resources to education and training, social protection, and compensatory mechanisms to support workers in their transition. We are pleased to see dedicated recommendations on leveraging FinTech, and we reiterate the need to ensure socioeconomic conditions and build institutional capacities to enable the adoption and development of such financial innovation and technology while ensuring relevant safeguards against anti-competitive behavior, consumer privacy, and financial integrity. We must reduce barriers for developing countries to adopt frontier technologies such as artificial intelligence and recognize the importance of financing to unlock the full potential of digital technologies. FFD4 should also consider the creation of a multilateral fund to stimulate innovation and cooperation, facilitate shared global research, technology transfer, and best practices, such as through joint innovation challenges, and enable developing countries to benefit from new and emerging technologies. Chair, the group will continue to engage constructively in this process, including on the negotiations on the zero draft, which we look forward to. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Singapore speaking on behalf of the G77. And now Brazil has the floor, followed by Bangladesh, please. Bangladesh, you have the floor, followed by the United Kingdom.

Thank you, Chair, for the opportunity to speak and for the comprehensive elements paper. Bangladesh would like to highlight the following points, which we believe should be emphasized more strongly. We advocate for international collaboration to map digital gaps, identify investment needs, and ensure development of inclusive national strategies regarding STI. We call for international and regional financing mechanisms to prioritize funding a resilient digital infrastructure, emphasizing gender-sensitive approaches and underserved communities. SDI financing falls short of the recommended 1% of the GDP in many regions. We should develop comprehensive SDI investment plans to attract additional resources and establish clear timelines for achieving universal connectivity. Special emphasis should be given in investing, infusing, and innovating localized climate adaptation technology for the climate vulnerable countries. To prevent further widening digital divide, we emphasize ensuring accessible and affordable technology and collaborative international research and development in the developing countries. We request partners to provide technical assistance to implement large-scale digital literacy programs targeting underserved populations, particularly women and youth. Finally, we call for financing capacity-building support for AI adoption in LDCs and other developing countries, coupled with a regulatory framework to ensure safe and inclusive use of artificial intelligence. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Bangladesh. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom to be followed by the representative of the United States.

Thank you, Chair. Innovations, new technologies, science and research, including data, digital and AI are some of the greatest enablers of SDG progress at our disposal. These enablers can drive the strongest and most cost effective development impact across a broad range of areas. We are supportive of actions in the elements paper to close the digital divide and would therefore like to see digital transformation recognized as a cross-cutting theme for FFD4. Inclusive, responsible, safe, and sustainable digital transformation and AI are critical components of closing the digital divide. And we would like to see this recognized in the outcome document. We must ensure that developing countries are actively involved in the development and regulation of AI. We should build on the actions in the elements paper and emphasize the importance of open access. We support equity, collaboration, and openness in the dissemination of research to ensure that scientists, innovators, and policymakers everywhere can access and contribute to the latest science and evidence. Furthermore, we commit to developing a set of principles to support a more globally effective system for research access, participation, and impact. We support the safe development and deployment of new and existing technologies, tools, and products for the global good, sharing the benefits while managing the risks, and to ensure that products developed are affordable, available, and accessible to those who need it most, including the most vulnerable. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of United Kingdom. Now, I give the floor to the distinguished representative of United States of America, to be followed by Saudi Arabia.

Thank you, Chair. The United States reaffirms its commitment to promoting economic development through science, technology, innovation, and capacity building, while also safeguarding national security and human rights. From combating climate change to enhancing education and health care and bolstering economic growth, these critical tools and emerging technologies can help us to not only meet but exceed our collective aspirations for a sustainable and inclusive future. We recognize the critical role of international collaboration between national governments, development finance institutions, and private actors to close the digital divide. Effective multilateral collaboration requires respect for institutional governance, authorities, and mandates, and for each partner to focus on its comparative advantage. The outcome document should recognize that development finance institutions, multilateral development banks, and the IMF have their own governance structures, mandates, and decision-making processes that are independent of the UN. We appreciate the recognition of the Global Digital Compact's commitment to develop innovative and blended financing mechanisms that can close the connectivity gap and leverage existing initiatives to mobilize resources to accelerate investment in digital infrastructure. Furthermore, we want to reemphasize that the GDC supports governance, digital cooperation, and actions that are open to the active and meaningful participation of all stakeholders, so everyone has a voice in the development and implementation of our shared digital future. We acknowledge that science, technology, and innovation play a critical role in achieving the sustainable development goals and that unregulated technological advances can have unintended consequences. To reap the benefits of innovation while minimizing societal disruption, we must prioritize innovation-led growth and carefully manage workforce transitions related to technology adoption. Simultaneously, regulatory and legal environments must support science, technology, and innovation, as the misappropriation of technology and trade secrets poses a significant threat to progress. To guard against this risk, it is important that technology transfer be voluntary and not forced, and that the terms of the transfer are mutually agreed upon by all parties involved and therefore not coerced. The United States underscores the importance of inclusive multi-stakeholder networks united by a common commitment towards achieving the 2030 Agenda. Finally, the United States reiterates our firm belief that a concise and focused FFD4 outcome document will prove most beneficial in achieving our shared development objectives. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of United States of America. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia to be followed by the representative of India.

Thank you very much, Chair, and good morning to you and all colleagues. With regards to the section on science, technology, and innovation, we have a couple of points to raise. On the global regulatory frameworks for AI and FinTech, they represent an important step in addressing emerging technologies. However, such frameworks require flexibility in a way to develop and implement national strategies without being burdened by top-down global frameworks that may have an opposite effect and be restrictive in nature. Second, we recommend to encourage global governance frameworks for AI and FinTech while respecting national innovation ecosystems and sovereignty and promoting capacity building to support an equitable technological development. Finally, Chair, and this section of the elements paper needs to be inclusive, taking into account different national circumstances, the pathways and approaches. And we shall not discriminate against any technological solution or option that may contribute to achieving our sustainable development. And this should be an overarching principle in the FFD process and the elements paper and the future documents that will be released by the chair. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of India to be followed by the representative of France.

Thank you, Chair. Overcoming the twin challenges of development and green growth depends on the interplay of innovation, intellectual property, and open science, along with their equitable access. In this context, the outcome document of FFD4 should emphasize the following reforms in financing mechanisms for STI, IP, and open sciences to make them more accessible, transparent, inclusive, and aligned with societal needs. Equitable and well-structured financing mechanisms are prerequisites for fueling innovation. We encourage innovation grants and subsidies for high-risk projects with a high potential social impact to support the startups and researchers having limited access to funds. Further, the collaborative financing models combining public funding and private investments are crucial to reduce financial risks, particularly for large projects and emerging technologies in EMDEs. Strengthening international cooperation is essential to encourage inclusive and non-discriminatory digital transformation with focus on sharing best practices, exchanging policies, tailoring training programs and technology transfer from developed to developing countries. Introduction and implementation of intellectual property policies that don't act as barriers are needed to form an enabling IP ecosystem, which is both accommodating protection and disseminating knowledge at the same time. Tiered licensing and IP pools and commons are some areas which need to be promoted. Open science is pivotal in making research freely available to all, helping scientists to learn, collaborate, and innovate faster. Therefore, policy reforms for mandating open access for public research and supporting data sharing platforms are important steps forward for making equitable benefits. Strengthening capacity building and enhancing digital connectivity in developing countries is crucial for harnessing data for development, particularly through investments in digital economy and infrastructure. Democratizing technology and promoting digital inclusion by advancing literacy, vocational skills, and access to digital tools, particularly empowering women and youth, is important step towards bridging the digital divide. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of India. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of France, to be followed by the representative of China.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Here I would like to address two points. Firstly, artificial intelligence. France will host the summit for action on artificial intelligence on the 10th and 11th of February, 2025. The objective of the summit is twofold, to make AI a tool in the general interest and also to promote a global inclusive partnership by avoiding the fragmentation of AI governance. Its broad geographical scope with 94 countries invited will allow us to build a common vision for AI that will benefit everyone rather than competing different visions. And regarding innovation next, we believe that innovation can be encouraged through the development of a social and solidarity based economy. In this regard, we recall the General Assembly's adoption in April 2023 of a resolution recognizing the contribution of this to the achievement of the SDGs. And it also plays an important role in identifying solutions for innovative solutions adapted to local contexts. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of France. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China to be followed by the representative of the European Union.

Chair, science and technology innovation is an important engine for the development of human society and an important means of addressing global challenges. We should insist on innovative development. Strengthen global collaboration and SDI, build a global innovation network, promote the application of emerging technologies and strengthen innovation and technological cooperation among enterprises so as to rejuvenate the world economy. All countries should join hands to promote connectivity in the digital age, accelerate the global green and low carbon transformation and realize sustainable development for all. We should advance open cooperation, uphold the spirit of open science without borders and barriers, promote the free flow of people and resources in the field of STI around the globe, strengthen talent exchanges and cooperation, and build an open and free international scientific and technological cooperation ecosystem. We firmly oppose actions that restrict or hinder STI cooperation or harm the common interest of the international community. We should insist on equality and inclusiveness. The concept of cooperation based on mutual respect, fairness, and equality and non-discrimination should be adhered to. We advocate equal participation of all countries and science research entities in international STI cooperation. We resolutely oppose using STI cooperation as a political tool, an instrument or a weapon, and the use of national security as a pretext for STI hegemony. China adheres to the principle of intelligence for good, fairness and universality, practice multilateralism and focuses on capacity building. and has promoted the adoption by consensus at the 78th UNGA, a resolution entitled Strengthening International Cooperation in Capacity Building in AI, put forward a plan for the universalization of capacity building in AI, and launched the Group of Friends on International Cooperation in Capacity Building in AI together with Zambia. We welcome the active participation of all countries and will promote broad partnership and will promote the AI for sustainable development for all countries, I think.

Thank you, the distinguished representative of China. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of European Union, to be followed by the representative of Russian Federation.

Thank you, Chair. The EU supports efforts to achieve universal and meaningful digital connectivity targets for 2030 and enhanced international collaboration for the full implementation of the global digital compact, including closing the digital divide and promoting secure connectivity. Using public funds as catalysts through innovative financing approaches such as blended finance and guarantees will help maximize digital investments. We should like to see greater focus on the role of MDBs and DFIs and agencies in supporting science and technology and innovation. We welcome the reference in the Elements Paper on facilitating access to finance for fintech. Also startups, innovative SMEs, and research infrastructure should be included in this effort. We welcome the reference to STI for SDGs roadmaps. They should be challenge-oriented, integrated with local context and with national or regional development plans. For example, the EU-funded project STI for SDGs roadmaps in Africa puts forward a methodology that presents solutions tailored to country-specific needs while promoting public-private partnerships and efficient investments. We welcome the emphasis of the element paper to investment in digital public infrastructure, digital literacy programs, and the promotion of equitable access to AI. As EU, we support partners digital policies and regulatory frameworks and invest in digital services, skills, innovation, data centers, last mile networks, and submarine cables. Human capital, capacity building, and voluntary technology transfers on mutually agreed terms enable just, inclusive and equitable transitions. The need for new skills, reskilling and upskilling and lifelong learning could be recognized more clearly in the Elements paper. Further, the Elements Paper could further have emphasized the importance of science policy panels such as the IPCC, the IPBES, and the International Resource Panel, and the Science Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste, and Combat Pollution. These are important tools to provide the latest science and evidence to help policymakers address global crises, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Thank you.

Thank you, the distinguished representative of European Union. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Russian Federation to be followed by the representative of Germany.

Thank you, Chair. The means of implementation of the 2030 agenda are no less important than financing for development. We share the view that science, technology and innovation can and should accelerate progress on the SDGs. Closing the digital divide and ensuring non-discriminatory access to knowledge, research, and education are fundamental to leveraging technology for sustainable development. Priority should be given to capacity building and scientific research in the global south alongside technology transfer to promote faster and more robust development. Our delegation dissociated from the consensus on the global digital compact and does not recognize its language as either agreed or consensual. We will address related matters on a case by case basis. Additionally, we emphasize that non-consensual language from the elements paper, such as references to marginalized communities and groups, would be unacceptable in the zero draft. On fintech, we stress the importance of its use aligning with national legislation and regulations. We also support advancing digital skills and literacy on a broader scale. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Russian Federation. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Germany, to be followed by the representative of Islamic Republic of Iran.

Thank you, Chair. Germany welcomes the elements paper as a valuable contribution to ongoing discussions on new scientific developments and technological innovations such as artificial intelligence. Innovation, technological and scientific developments have the potential to act as catalysts for development across all sectors and SDGs. However, we need to collaborate to ensure these developments help close digital divides between and within countries rather than widening them. Voluntary technology transfer can contribute to sustainable development when conducted on mutually agreed terms and while ensuring intellectual property rights. Accessible and inclusive capacity building can drive innovation for the social ecological transformation. However, governments and their development partners need to prioritize gender inclusive approaches and this should also be reflected in the zero draft. Since the adoption of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, there has been significant technological development. AI is such a key development with the potential to empower local ecosystems in sectors like agriculture, education, and efficient resource use. We can only leverage AI's full potential if we ensure equitable access and adhere to responsible and sustainable AI principles. We must take care not to reinforce systemic inequalities, for instance, due to algorithmic biases towards vulnerable groups. We see this balanced approach to AI well reflected in the Elements paper. Digital public goods and digital public infrastructure are key drivers of inclusive transformation and innovation. We support the development of open source software and open data sets in key areas for achieving the SDGs. Germany also welcomes the Global Digital Compact and urges to ensure alignment of language with its paragraph 16 and 17E referencing the need to increase investment and funding for digital public goods and infrastructure. Germany welcomes the elements paper suggestion to realize the full potential of financial technologies in achieving financial inclusion and financial health. However, in addition to fintech, many other digital technologies can increase the financial inclusion of marginalized groups, in particular women. Therefore, we suggest broadening the focus from fintechs to leveraging the potential of all digital financial service companies for financial inclusion. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Germany. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Islamic Republic of Iran, to be followed by the representative of Indonesia.

Thank you, Excellency, for the floor. Allow me to highlight a few points important for my delegation. We believe that FFD4 outcome document on this section should have strengthening international cooperation. addressing the leading role of the United Nations. And then the FFT should adherence to the purpose and principle of the Charter of the United Nations, respect the leadership and ownership of the member state. And then reference to the basis, the Tunis agenda and the Geneva plan of action should be reflected in the text, emphasizing the commitment of developing countries, closing the digital gap between developed and developing countries should be one of its goal, upholding and safeguarding the right to development, urging immediate lifting of all unilateral course measures on the people of targeted countries such such illegal measures lead to fragmentation and deepen the digital and knowledge divide among developed and developing countries and then big tech companies and cross-border platform must align themselves with laws cultural values and religious principles of the countries where they operate and facilitate the transfer of technology knowledge and experience in the field of information and communication technology, considering the diverse impacts of the digital space on legal, political, civil, economic, social and cultural aspects. And then the FFT should stress the accountability and responsibility of digital platform owners and operators while ensuring the protection of national and personal data. And stakeholders in ICT environment should adhere to their responsible behaviour observing principles, norms, rules and regulations of the countries they operate and being accountable for their actions, especially during global crises and pandemics. And Excellency, on emerging technologies, including AI, FFT4 should provide a platform that enabling equal participation of all countries in multilateral international operation. And at the end, allow me to highlight some of the points that already raised by few delegations. Some concepts are controversial, like the marginalized communities and the groups, and then gender issues that is not the consensus we propose that the document use the agreed language of the agenda and discussion. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iran. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia to be followed by the representative of Antigua and Barbuda.

Thank you, Chair. Good morning, distinguished delegates. Indonesia is pleased to engage in this important discussion. In this spirit, we wish to share a few constructive comments regarding the paper. First, we must strengthen our regulatory frameworks and environments while ensuring proper governance. Indonesia has developed several regulations related to fintech. licensing, consumer protection, and payment systems. As a result, the number of fintech companies in Indonesia grew significantly from 51 active players in 2011 to 334 in 2022. Additionally, fintech transactions show remarkable growth with over 7.3 billion US dollar processed through electronic money and 3.5 billion US dollar via quick response code in Indonesia. standard. We believe this effort will promote collaboration between local banks and fintech firms as well as draw investment into underserved markets. Second, scaling up investment in both physical and non-physical digital infrastructure is crucial. While this may require significant resources, we believe they will have a lasting impact on achieving the SDGs. For instance, we completed the Palapa Ring project in 2019 to connect more than 500 with 4G internet access. As a result, we saw over 41 million users and 29 million merchants have actively participated in our financial technology services, many of whom are MSMEs enterprises. Besides that, we also conduct national initiatives such as Indonesia FinTech Summit and Expo to promote dialogue between FinTech players and regulators and showcase innovations. We believe these efforts not only reduce the digital divide but also unlock the untapped potential of fintech. Third, we strongly support increasing digital literacy capacity, particularly through initiatives like online universities for developing countries to promote SEEM education. However, we must highlight that this knowledge sharing and capacity building effort is not a one-size-fits-all, so it should be context specific. We need targeted investment to understand local needs with the collaboration of government, civil society, NGOs, and the private sector. In conclusion, Indonesia support the current draft and we are confident our discussion today will lead to tangible outcomes for inclusive science, technology, innovation, and capacity building. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Antigua and Barbuda, to be followed by the representative of Belgium.

Thank you, Chair. STI is a critical.

Component for development for countries like Antigua and Barbuda, who are far behind in science, technology and innovation. our unique vulnerabilities for the compound SDI advancements. Establishing a technology fund specifically for SIDS could help close the digital divide, especially in areas of financial technology. Enhanced digital financial systems will improve SIDS ability to attract investments and manage transactions, which is critical in the context of limited financial resources. The SIDS Center of Excellence, as outlined in the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS, In particular, the innovation and technology component can contribute to bridging the SDI divide and improve capacity building within SIDS. SIDS need focused attention to leverage digital innovation to overcome development constraints, improving SIDS digital infrastructure through faster broadband speeds and increased internet penetration, adopting technologies like mobile payments and e-commerce, and embracing industry 4.0 innovations such as artificial intelligence, and big data will help diversify city economies and build greater resilience.

I thank the distinguished representative of Antigua and Barbuda. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium to be followed by the representative of Guatemala.

Mr. Chair, ladies and gentlemen. The digital divide is a major challenge. Without equitable access to digital technologies in society, many individuals and communities will be left behind. Low and middle income countries are increasingly using digital solution to accelerate progress towards the sustainable development goals. from using data analytics to optimize resource allocation for poverty reduction to e-governance to increase transparency and reduce corruption. Capacity building is crucial to ensure that people have the skills to harness the power of digital tools, which is a key component of Belgium's approach to digital for development, further motivated by a strong focus on this issue in the UN Global Digital Compact. Belgium is committed to a people-centered approach to digital development. This means ensuring that digital technologies are used to empower individuals and communities, reduce inequalities, promote human rights and gender equality, and sustainable development in general. It follows that a purely infrastructure-oriented approach should be avoided. It is also essential to further engage with civil society and the private sector to align incentives and investment with environmental and sustainability standards. We can better harness the potential of technology transfer and intellectual property while respecting IP rights to create impactful progress on the SDG and thereby attract significant impact investment. Belgium is funding an initiative called the Impact Licensing Initiative to transfer technology to developing countries under an impact license on mutually agreed terms where the licensee commits to achieving a specified impact on the SDGs, making SDG impact enforceable through the mechanism of contract law. Finally, as culture or the group of friends of science in action, Belgium, together with India and South Africa, is ready to promote discussion on this action area in view of FFD4.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Belgium. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guatemala to be followed by the representative of Pakistan.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. In many developing regions, particularly in Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa, access to internet and broadband access is inadequate, and this disproportionately affects rural communities where access to the internet is lower than in city areas. Looking at technology in 2023 in the UN Conference on Trade and Development, ahead of a broad and very worrying panorama on the existing gaps when it comes to internet. Latin America and Caribbean countries are not well prepared to adopt these cutting edge technologies. Looking at the index of technological preparation in the report, most countries, the majority, are below the level of taxes here. Looking at digital infrastructure and connection. My delegation would like to draw your attention to a proposal to bridge these gaps, having more greater investment in connectivity, including high speed broadband access, particularly in remote and rural areas. When it comes to adopting advanced technologies, this would make possible progress in health, education and economy. Certainly, we need to involve local communities in the design and implementation of development projects. This would make it possible to increase the possibility of success and sustainability of the plans and programmes, as initiatives would thus better reflect the real situation of people when it comes to their role in formulating policies. These plans can be driven forward if there is centralized cooperation when it comes to transfer of knowledge and the creation of normative frameworks looking at digital inclusion and access to advanced technologies, leaving no one behind, realizing that thus developing countries would not be left behind in the digital revolution in which we're making progress now. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Guatemala. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Pakistan to be followed by the representative of Iraq.

Thank you, co-chairs. The single most important aspect for us from this section of the outcome document would be on intellectual property flexibilities. We appreciate that it is the first action bullet in this section. We believe the outcome document could contextualize this topic as follows. First, it should lay out the purpose of the intellectual property regime in the framework of Article 7 of the TRIPS agreement, which reads as follows. The protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights should contribute to the promotion of technological innovation and to the transfer and dissemination of technology to the mutual advantage of producers and users of technological knowledge. Second, it should recognize the flexibilities inherent in the IP regime, in particular, the obligation to interpret and implement the relevant agreements in a manner supportive of states' right to protect public health and, in particular, to promote access to medicines for all. Third, it should commit to incorporate a development-oriented approach to the IP regime, in particular, a clear commitment to explore further flexibilities in the appropriate forums for achieving the SDGs and climate goals. Coming to the paper itself, allow us to raise some specific points. First, the section cannot be overly prescriptive on countries' national SDI policies. The focus should be on scaling up international cooperation on SDI to finance capacity building and tech transfer. Second, there must be a comprehensive approach to the listing of digital divides. We see no explicit reference to the digital divide between developed and developing countries. Third, the selective and unclear approach to the listing of developing countries. This is an issue throughout the elements paper. We reiterate our proposal to have a comprehensive listing of developing countries in the cross cutting section so as to not proliferate a listing throughout. Moreover, we should refer to developing countries rather than only countries in this section. Fourth, the reference to marginalised communities, which is also an issue which has been raised before, the 2030 Agenda formulation of people in vulnerable situations should be consistently used. Sixth, on the reference to utilizing the AI governance dialogue for AI and fintech, that is not appropriate. We must avoid parallel negotiations of the FFD3 outcome document and the modalities of the AI governance dialogue. We also possess reservations on the proposal for developing principles for governance of fintech. Next, on financing mechanisms, we do not believe that the focus of this section should only be on innovative and blended finance mechanisms. We reiterate the proposal of the G77 and China for a multilateral fund in this regard. And lastly, the reference to financial health is unclear. We would appreciate clarification or deletion. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Pakistan. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iraq, to be followed by the representative of ITU.

Thank you, sir.

I'd like to lay stress on how important coordination is between the technological sector and others. and amongst those acting in these two sectors, both public and private, in order to achieve technological progress to foster development. We call for capacity building in developing countries in order to keep up with the swift evolution of technologies. We would like to see funding for science and technology and innovation in developing countries, including there the technology bank in LDCs concentrating on agriculture, water and energy management and adaptation to climate change in these countries. Technology must complement and mean sustainable development. And for this end, we need to focus on education, social action, and adaptation to change. We would emphasize the access to AI for developing countries so that digital technology can be promoted, particularly when it comes to the transfer of technologies and knowledge. We would like to voice once again our support for participation in negotiations so that an effective document can be produced to promote action for developing countries towards sustainable development.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iraq. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of ITU, to be followed by the representative of stakeholder group of persons with disabilities.

Thank you, Chair. In 2024, 2.6 billion people, nearly one third of the world's population, remain offline. This digital divide is most acute in low and lower middle income countries, where only 46% of the population has adequate internet access. A critical reason for this gap is the lack of necessary digital infrastructure. The pact for the future underscores commitment to investing in and deploying resilient digital infrastructure, as well as to developing innovative blend financing mechanisms to connect the last one third of humanity. ITU is pleased to see that the FFD4 Elements paper includes a proposed commitment to enhancing international collaboration between national governments, DFIs and private actors to design digital infrastructure financing models and impact, and to leverage existing initiatives to mobilize resources. Digital infrastructure not only supports socioeconomic development, but can also contribute to environmental sustainability. The Green Digital Action Declaration highlights that digital disparities can obstruct climate efforts. The deployment of foundational digital infrastructure can support climate goals by reducing costs and increasing the efficiency of climate financing solutions, provided that minimizing negative climate impacts when deploying and operating such infrastructure is a priority. In this context, we advocate for an increased focus on the green aspects of digital infrastructure in the outcome document. The FFD4 conference is a critical opportunity to promote digital infrastructure investments and multi-stakeholder collaboration, recognize digital infrastructure role in achieving green objectives and advocate for enhanced investment accountability. To this end, ITU proposes three specific initiatives as potential FFD4 outcomes. the establishment of a technical forum with DFIs, the launch of a digital infrastructure fund, and the development of a knowledge hub on financing for connectivity. We are eager to develop these initiatives and we advocate for the use of ambitious languages and action-oriented approaches in the outcome document to help us achieve a sustainable and inclusive digital future. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of ITU. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of stakeholder group of persons with disabilities to be followed by the representative of IAEA.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I am presenting on behalf of the stakeholder group of persons with disabilities and also representing the civil society FFD mechanism. The fourth International Conference on Financing for Development is a crucial opportunity to strengthen science, technology and innovation. Thus, we call for the following. In closing the digital divide in support of financing for development, we must ensure gender and disability inclusion, specifically inclusive digital infrastructure and accessible public procurement. for marginalized groups, especially persons with disabilities. International collaboration and initiatives on digital infrastructure financing should be inclusive, transparent, and publicly accountable. We should invest in and deploy satellite and local network initiatives that provide safe and secure network coverage, including in hard to reach areas in support of the global digital compact commitment. Education systems must ensure the right to education and provide free and open, accessible, inclusive, contextual, relevant curricular and support of high quality digital education contents. Governments must legislate and enforce effective regulatory measures for private sector providers to ensure that right to education and that education remains a public good. In strengthening technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and capacity strengthening, we must promote South-South knowledge sharing in STI, enable support local innovations that respond to actual needs of people, utilize local capacities, and sustainably use resources, and support development of the genius technologies, particularly in developing countries and LDCs. Ensure that new and emerging technologies do not lead to further depletion of resources and the destruction of the environment. Provide financing for local innovations, including through direct access for communities to global and regional funds for STI and capacity building. Enhance collaboration among STI and Forum and other international platforms, including the establishment of an inclusive, transparent, participatory global mechanism at the United Nations for the evaluation of new and emerging technologies, inter alia artificial intelligence, and their actual and potential impacts on societies, including the marginalized groups such as persons with disabilities, the economy, the environment, and climate. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the stakeholder group of the persons with disabilities. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of IAEA to be followed by the representative of Children and Youth International.

Chairperson, colleagues, thank you for the opportunity to contribute to the discussion on STI and capacity building. We believe STI to be a pathway to increasing the economic development of countries, contributing to the elevation of poverty, hunger and inequity. It is therefore critical to promote all forms of science, including nuclear, as a driver of change in economies. We believe SDI to be pivotal in driving sustainable development and economic growth. However, the current international financial architectures fall short immobilizing the long-term financing necessary to address multiple global challenges. To bridge this gap, we must enhance our collective efforts in several key areas. First, we must strengthen technology development as well as transfer and knowledge sharing and enhance country absorptive capacities. These will support efforts to ensure that all nations can benefit from scientific advancements. Second, it is critical to direct resources to countries and regions with the greatest needs. To encourage scientific innovation in developing countries, we must combine public funds, the knowledge of specialized agencies, and financing from international partners, including the private sector. Third, the IAEA underscores that data is essential for informed decision making and effective resource allocation. STI plays a critical role in generating accurate and actionable data, which is vital for addressing development challenges. We are pleased to see that the element paper shared by the co-facilitator highlight the importance of this issue in this context of a broader discussion on financing for development. Furthermore, in principle, the International Atomic Energy Agency welcomes the inclusion of the proposal to establish a global sustainability science center under the UN Technology Facilitation Mechanism. The IAEA could consider to become a partner of this proposed initiative, in particular for project in agriculture, health, water, and energy, where the IAEA has significant experience and expertise, once more information is made available. To power our sustainable future, And we must ensure that SDI initiative receives substantial and stable financing. By fostering collaboration among international organisations, financial institutions and recipient countries, we can build a resilient and self reliant system that drives sustainable development. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of IAEA. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Children and Youth International to be followed by the representative of the Nanjing World Youth Development Service Center.

Thank you, Chair. I'm Aaron Ng from Hong Kong, China, speaking on behalf of the major group of children and youth. As young people who will inherit both the opportunity and challenge of today's technological transformation, we emphasize several critical priorities that require attention from the international community. The digital divide disproportionately affects youth in developing countries, creating a profound impact on our generation's future opportunity. Dedicated financial mechanism must be established to ensure young people are not left behind in the digital age. We need to substantial investment in digital infrastructure that reach school, university, and youth center in all communities, particularly in rural and marginalized areas. Resources must be allocated for comprehensive digital skills program that prepare youth for the future of work, ensuring no young person is denied in the opportunity to participate in the digital global economy. As emerging technology like artificial intelligence reshapes our future, we call for targeted investment in AI education and capacity building for youth. With particular focus on least developed countries, enhanced support for youth-led technology initiatives and innovation hubs in developing countries is crucial. We must develop safeguards to ensure new technologies create opportunities rather than deepen inequalities. Financial mechanisms must be established to enable young people in meaningful participation in AI development and global governance. Economic transformation must be the heart of international development aid as well. We have cited a portion dedicated to youth empowerment in emerging technology. We call for establishment of dedicated program that facilitate knowledge sharing and technology transfer between developed and developing country. This transformation should focus on bridging the stark disparity in digital access between different nation and ensure young people everywhere have equal opportunity to participate in digital economy. International development cooperation must prioritize building telecommunication capacity among young in developing countries, enabling them to become not just users, but creators and innovators in the digital age. We emphasize in this party requires not just commitment, but concrete financial resources and implementation of mechanism. As the generation that will live with the consequence of today's decision, we call for meaningful youth engagement in shaping technology innovation that serve both current and future generation. I would like to have a quote from the World Expo main theme song, we are the next generation to strive for young people. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Children and Youth International. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nanjing World Youth Development Service Center.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Good morning, everyone. My name is Liu Xi. We promote youth participation in international development. Talking about STI and its role in financing for development, I want to emphasize the role of the youth. Youth are the most creative group, innovative group. They are fast learners. They are also adaptive to the changes in the world. So they are the main players in this world. As we notice that The youth play an important role in this process. In order to leverage their potential, we would like to put forward three proposals. First, to leverage the role of the youth in bridging the digital divide. In this process, we have to emphasize that the youth can play an important role in bridging the digital divide. For instance, in low-income countries and in marginalized communities, the youth can, through training programs and capacity building programs, enhance the capacity of the community in using technology. We can also leverage volunteer programs to promote open data and provide equal access to vulnerable groups to technology. Secondly, we have to enhance education and vocational training of the youth through open platforms online. We can provide opportunity to young people in developing countries, various resources, for instance, in the international framework of STI for development, we can provide AI training courses and big data courses and those curriculum can be combined, can be in line with the UN program to meet the needs of digitalization and green development. Thirdly, we should encourage youth participation in decision making and policy making. I believe this is a very important factor We propose that in the UN framework, we should set up the youth advisory board so that the young people can participate in decision making and the discussion to express their views on green development and international cooperation. In addition, we should encourage young youth representatives to participate in panel discussions. In the final analysis, we believe that In the process of development, we should create more opportunities for the young people to participate in the discussion in the policy making and contribute to this process. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nanjing World Youth Development Service Center. And we have just heard the last speaker on this topic. And excellencies, distinguished delegates, I now invite the committee to hold its fifth interactive discussions on international trade as an engine for development. I now open the floor for the interactive discussions. Delegation wishing to intervene should request now. I remind the speaker of the time limit of three minutes for interventions in order to give all those wishing to speak the opportunity to take the floor. A countdown clock is visible on the screen to alert speakers when it is time to conclude their statements. The microphone will be automatically deactivated when the time limit has elapsed. Speakers are kindly requested to deliver their statement at a reasonable speed to facilitate the interpretation. Now, I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iran on behalf of the G77 and China.

Thank you, Excellency. Allow me to highlight a few priorities submitted by the G77 and China in its 11 paper. First, the group emphasized that international trade is an engine for inclusive economic growth and poverty eradication, and stressing that the significance of the principle of special and differentiated treatment for developing countries in harnessing the development benefits of international trade to facilitate the integration of their economy to the multilateral trading system. Second, strengthening the universal rule-based, non-discriminatory, open, fair, inclusive, predictable, equitable, and transparent multilateral trading system, including through the fulfillment of longstanding pending negotiation issues, strengthening the special and differential treatment for developing countries as a multilateral principle, and ensuring transfer of technology to deliver on sustainable development. Three, conclude the necessary reform of WTO to improve all its functions, preserving the centrality, core values, and fundamental principles of WTO. Fourth, emphasizing the importance of facilitating the accession of all developing countries to the WTO. Agree that sustainable development requires enhanced cooperation to information markets and finance, as well as capacity building, affordable digital solutions and non-discriminatory trade facilitation, stable and well-functioning industrial and supply, and highlighting the need for developing countries to become part of global value chains, ensuring support to MSME. sectors in respective countries and enhancing trade facilitation. Sixth, eliminate immediately all laws and regulations with extraterritorial impact and all other forms of coercive economic measures, including unilateral sanctions against developing countries, emphasizing that the global and protecting and encouraging investment should not affect all abilities to ensure public the objectives and recognizing one of the key obstacles to achieving sustainable development goals in the lack of trade finance, recognizing the international trade offers opportunities but also require adequate space for developing countries, and then expressing concern about trade restrictive measures imposed under the guise of environmental protection and support the efforts of developing countries that produce critical energy transitional minerals to achieve values, values addition and economic diversities. Excellency, if you allow me, I wanted to highlight that the Group of 77 and China will engage constructively in all process and expect.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iran who spoke on behalf of the discipline of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Yemen, to be followed by the representative of Australia.

Thank you, Chair. Yemen's experience illustrates the critical challenges LDCs face the global trading system. Let me illustrate this through three interconnected areas where the element paper must be supported and strengthened. Each of these areas represent a fundamental challenge that LDCs particularly those facing compound crisis encounter in the current trading system the first area concerns Market access and productive uh capacity to understand the scale of this challenge consider Yemen experience our export have fallen by over 80% since 2012 with our deficit reaching 7.8 billion these figures represent not just statistics but a fundamental breakdown in our ability to participate in international trade this is why we strongly advocate the element papers proposal for doubling Aid for trade to LDCs by 2031 with a specific focus on productive capacity building such support would enable countries like Yemen to rebuild their export capabilities and diversify their economies furthermore the proposal for establishing an international investment support center for LDCs would provide the institutional framework needed to coordinate and deliver this assistance effectively the second area focus on trade facilitation, the, to appreciate the urgency of this issue, where maritime trade costs have soared for over 60% of our exports. Now we move through constrained land routes due to the port disruption. The shift has dramatically increased transportation costs and reduced our competitiveness when basic trade infrastructure is compromised. Traditional trade facilitation measures become inadequate. We therefore need an enhanced support for infrastructure rehabilitation combined with simplified procedures specifically designed for crisis affected LDCs. Regional approaches to trade corridors development would ensure and help these resolutions are sustainable. Therefore, we support the proposal for increasing investment windows. The third area relates to policy space, which is fundamental for development. The current trade measures often fail to recognize the complex challenges faced by LDCs. Special differential treatment must evolve to reflect multiple vulnerabilities. In conclusion, we urge outcome document to deliver concrete commitment that create a trading system truly capable for supporting those furthest behind. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Yemen. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia to be followed by the representative of Argentina.

Thank you, Chair. Historically, Australia is a trading nation with openness to trade and investment serving as the cornerstone of our prosperity. We've witnessed firsthand the transformative benefits that trade and investment bring. In this context, Australia strongly supports a rules-based, non-discriminatory, transparent, open, fair multilateral trading system as a vital driver of sustainable development. However, more can and must be done, particularly by revitalising the multilateral trading system through the WTO. This includes actively promoting and supporting WTO accession, especially for developing and least developed countries. Australia is committed to advancing trade and investment liberalisation and facilitation with a focus on developing and least developed countries. We must foster digital trade as a catalyst for job creation, women's economic empowerment and bridging the digital divide. Trade and investment are critical for enhancing agricultural resilience and strengthening food security. Australia supports export-led growth in developing and least developed countries through preferential trade access and targeted special and differential treatment tailored to individual development needs. International financial institutions, including the MDBs, are key to this as a driver of finance and expertise. Australia advocates for deeper collaboration to address trade financing gaps through capacity building, technical assistance and financial instruments, developing and implementing programs that help developing and least developed countries achieve their trade investment and development goals, and prioritising trade facilitation assistance for these nations, including least developed countries. Looking ahead, trade and investment must remain pillars of a secure and stable global economic future. FFD4 presents a critical opportunity to harness this potential, and our collective success will be measured by our ambition to support vulnerable countries. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Australia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Argentina, to be followed by the distinguished representative of Saudi

Arabia.

Mr President, regarding this section, firstly, I wish to say that our delegation is concerned that the Elements document focuses so specifically on just one group of developing countries, namely the least developed countries. We're also concerned that the document omits important aspects in our discussion, such as the way of financing for support for farmers who are trading. In this sense, then, the document must once again emphasise how important it is to prevent and correct trade restrictions in global agricultural markets, including eliminating all forms that obstruct the agricultural markets here. We also believe that we need to continue negotiations in the WTO, looking at the existing conditions in order to continue our reform of trade rules. Sir, regarding trade measures that limit or distort trade, we believe that this point gives a difficult focus in that the countries whose trade is most effective and who have the first line impact of this don't really need the the assessment of an experts panel and this could minimise this. And then again, looking at ECOSOC, we need to look specifically at the trade aspect. We believe that in this section, there should just be a limitation to preventing unilateral measures which restrict or distort trade, as this plays a fundamental role in developing countries. and is also contrary to the WTO rules. Regarding critical minerals and the reference to these, our delegation believes that it is not appropriate that the documents should support the recommendations and principles proposed by the UN experts panel on critical minerals. The recommendations of the panel are not intergovernmentally agreed, they were not negotiated amongst governments, and Again, this is a document which has not been duly considered by UN Member States. Therefore, the recommendations should not really be endorsed by this forum. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Argentina. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia, to be followed by the distinguished representative of Cuba.

Thank you, Chair. With regards to the regional trade integration, the focus on the African Trade Initiative is a regional integration that we recommend to expand it to the narrative to include diverse regional economic groupings and logistics hubs that play significant roles in fostering global trade and connectivity. Furthermore, trade in minerals and commodities should include all clean energy sources and avoid limiting the commodities to only minerals. To support development, we must not limit our approaches in the FFD. The emphasis on critical energy transition minerals and renewable energy technologies is forward looking and addresses global sustainability goals. However, We cannot focus solely on one aspect while neglecting the others. Ensuring energy security, economic stability, and prosperity are crucial while addressing our climate plans. We must acknowledge the diversity of energy sources and encourage investments in both renewable energy and zero and low emission technologies, including carbon capture, utilization, and storage, in addition to direct air capture. On the recommendations presented by the Secretary General on critical energy transition minerals, we are still in the process of reviewing the proposal made in the report. However, The FFD cannot impose recommendations or commitments on countries that were not negotiated by all. The WTO has its own structure and mandates, and it's not clear how can the FFD mandate the WTO or any other international forum. The mandate of the FFD must be clear and not be exceeded. Finally, We emphasize the significance of refraining from shifting the focus of the FFD from financing development to imposing obligations on countries. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, to be followed by the representative of Indonesia.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I wish a very good day to all colleagues. My delegation would like to endorse what was stated by the delegation of Iraq on behalf of the G77 and China. We have also federal elements who would like to add in our national capacity. We do understand how important this section is for many states, particularly when it comes to cooperating with a particular country area, particularly when partnerships partnerships are established with international organisations looking at the effect to coordinate and regulate international trade, as is the case with the WTO. However, setting up an experts group to make recommendations on reforming the WTO with what is being done in the framework of the G20 lacks the inclusivity and scope that this important issue should have. And this very process has this in the WTO framework. So again, looking at this section of the document, we have the inclusion of the request that the Forum for Development Financing should look at unilateral impact, the impact of financial actions which are incompatible with the UN Charter. We have to go beyond this, though, and promote specific actions, such as the commitment from Member States to eliminate these unilateral measures which only adversely affect the countries concerned and prevent their moving towards the SDGs. This focus here should be the limitation of such measures, not sorry, the elimination, not just the limitation of these measures. When it comes to critical minerals, as other delegations have said, these provide an opportunity for developing countries to fund their development from their own resources and capacities, and these minerals can therefore contribute to transforming their exports. of commodities. Here we need specific action, such as protecting and improving the political space so that countries can implement industrial policies that look at the production of commodities by means of industrialisation. We also have to highlight the recommendations of the experts' panel. are merely a preliminary effort that still need to be analysed and discussed by Member States in the framework of an intergovernmental process. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia, to be followed by the distinguished representative of Brazil.

Thank you, Chair. Distinguished colleagues, allow us to begin by extending our appreciation for the element paper that has shared numbers of important elements. Our delegation wishes to share three key points. First, we welcome the elements that focus on the needs of developing countries. It is important that the use of the term developing countries must be maintained in its broad concept. Building on this foundation, we must ensure the active participation of all countries in every stage of the review and assessment of existing agreements and policies. By adopting this inclusive approach, we can achieve our rules-based, non-discriminatory, transparent, open and fair international trading system that reflects the interests of all. Second. We thank co-facilitators that the elements paper highlighted a dedicated section emphasizing the importance of critical minerals and commodities, which increasingly offer opportunities to enhance economic resilience and diversification through value addition, particularly for developing countries. We also view the importance of maintaining the localization of critical minerals processing on the territories of the countries where they are mined and maximizing the benefits for the local communities. We also appreciate the part, the acknowledge, the support needed by many developing countries, which face challenges in terms of capacity and infrastructure to produce higher value goods. In this regard, we encourage greater investment in both physical infrastructure, such as transportation networks and logistic systems, and non-physical infrastructure, including transfer of technology, digital platforms, and streamline customs procedures. Finally, we are of the view on the importance of having an element to highlight that measures taken to combat climate change, including unilateral ones, should not constitute a means of arbitrary or unjustifiable discrimination or a disguised restriction on international trade. We must refrain from imposing policy instruments for environmental purposes which may impact international trade and can have unintended consequences for countries, especially developing countries. Moreover, it is also essential to recognize the importance of the care economy on the welfare and the welfare of workers who are at the backbone of global trade of services, ensuring their well-being will contribute to long-term sustainable economic growth. We look forward to continuing the discussion to ensure that international trade is an important engine for inclusive economic growth, combating poverty, hunger, and promoting sustainable development. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil, to be followed by the representative of Tanzania.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The UN is a legitimate forum to discuss and help improving trade rules. UNCTAD has a long history of critical contributions on the issue, among others, the establishment of special and differential treatment, which was later integrated into GATT and the WTO. Brazil welcomes the LMN's paper balanced approach to international trade. Particularly its emphasis on a revitalized WTO, its recognition of trade's vital role in fostering development, and its attention to strengthening special and differential treatment. A central challenge of economic diplomacy today is to preserve the universal nature of the global trade regime. As we work to reform and strengthen the WTO, we must urgently restore a fully functioning dispute settlement system. This is fundamental for trade to fulfill its role as an engine for development and growth. A predictable, rules-based trading system depends on an effective mechanism to resolve disputes, accessible to all members. Additionally, we are concerned about the potential impact of unilateral border carbon adjustment measures on developing countries' trade and development prospects. These measures must comply with international trade rules and be carefully assessed to avoid the creation of disguised trade barriers. We believe that the Elements Paper should more comprehensively address both these aspects in the draft outcome document. Brazil stands ready to work constructively with all delegations on these important matters. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Brazil. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Tanzania, to be followed by the representative of Morocco.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Chair, the United Republic of Tanzania supports the efforts to integrate developing countries into global trade system. We stress the importance of improved market access for goods and services, particularly from LDCs, simplifying the, in simplifying and streamlining rules of origin in critical, it's very critical for enabling these nations to fully benefit from preferential trade agreement and better access to global markets. Mr. Chair, the FFP4 outcome must address the rise of unilateral trade measures that impose discriminatory sustainability standards on exports from developing countries. Such practices threatens export, disrupts production, and undermines development. We advocate for multilateral agreements to reaffirm, update, and strengthen special differential treatment in trade agreements, especially for LDCs, LLDCs, and SEEDS. This will ensure flexibility needed for these nations to achieve their development goals. Furthermore, trade policies must better address social and environmental dimensions to ensure that the benefits are broadly shared in this regard. My delegation wishes to emphasize briefly about the followings. One, advancing export-led industrial economic through Industrialize the economy through value addition and diversification. Two, enhancing market access via improved compliance quality standards for products from developing countries. Three, leveraging digital technology to boost trade competitiveness and performance. Four, expanding financial access to MSMEs, youth, women, entrepreneurs through innovative instruments. And five, building capacity to strengthen trade as tools of economic and social advancement. And six, discouraging practices that hinder the participation of developing countries in international trade, such as reduced financing for compliance with the new standards. In conclusion, by aligning the trade with sustainable development goals, we can build an equitable global trading system that supports inclusive growth and resilience. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Tanzania. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco, to be followed by the representative of Russian Federation.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. My delegation would like to propose the following elements to improve the section under discussion. A call could be made for a better integration, primarily of developing countries, into regional and international value chains, combined with strengthening local industrialization. We also underscore the importance of improving intra-regional trade as a way to strengthen and mobilize domestic resources. including through expanding the tax base by incentivising industrialisation and promoting regional investments. We also welcome the reference to SADC in the text, but we believe that that could be further strengthened and action oriented in order to promote regional trade integration in Africa. We should also strengthen action strengthening infrastructure relating to transport at the national, regional and international levels, through the establishment at the global level of investment incentives in that sector, as well as diversified financing mechanisms. The text should also enjoy clear support for the special and differentiated treatment of developing countries as a net producer of food produce in order to strengthen the food security of those countries while also stimulating their agricultural production. Lastly, We are not able to achieve inclusive trade without the economic empowerment of young people and women in the trade sector. And we call for the text to be explicit when it comes to the establishment of specific financing mechanisms for projects initiated by young people and women, or for there to be more programs to support those projects. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Morocco. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Russian Federation, to be followed by the distinguished representative of European Union.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. On the whole, we support the proposed subject when it comes to trade and related issues. At the same time, we would like to draw attention to the following. Firstly, It is necessary to ensure inclusive participation in international trade with this relates to entering the WTO or access to financing. Here it's important to take into account the interests of all countries, including middle-income countries, and prevent imbalances in the interests of a particular category of states. Secondly, there must be a more detailed work done on issues related to expanding trade within integration associations and their contribution to development. Thirdly, Some of the proposed subjects, such as reviewing the rules of origin of goods or reforming the dispute resolution mechanism among investors and states, go beyond the bounds of the UN's competence and should be considered within specialized platforms, first and foremost in the WTO. Four, measures must be included to support the international community in rapidly resuming work in the dispute settlement body in the WTO. five we welcome the consideration of unilateral coercive measures in this section moreover under e one there should be an assessment of the impact of unilateral financial and trade measures that should be included six point two should be renamed enhance productive capacities to increase diversified exports that would be that would make sense And it's necessary to include more detailed measures and solutions on the structural transformations of the economy and trade. We also propose A and B in Section E to be moved to paragraph one on trade. Given that in three there's the LDCs that are mentioned, it would make sense to include a separate paragraph for LLDCs and SIDS. The key elements can be taken from the new program of actions for those categories of countries. On four critical minerals, we will provide our additional comments subsequently. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Russian Federation. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of European Union, to be followed by the distinguished representative of Islamic Republic of Iran.

Mr President, the EU is committed to free, fair and sustainable trade and to the international rule based system with the WTO at its core. Trade can be a powerful driver of sustainable development and we support strong actions in that vein, with a focus on fostering a level global playing field and resilient, sustainable and inclusive value chains, the benefits of which are widely shared. The EU provides many forms of support to developing countries active participation in the multilateral system, including participation in negotiation in the WTO, as well as effective implementation of agreements such as the Trade Facilitation Agreement. More generally, the EU and its Member States are the world's largest provider of aid for trade, a key tool for sustainable development in line with our global gateway strategy. We provide support for trading capacity of developing countries, for investments in digital and physical infrastructure and for sustainable productive capacity and to improving enabling environment at national, regional and international level. We also provide extensive preferential market access via the GSP, the EPAs and the bilateral trade agreements, and completely duty free, quota free access to LDCs through the EBA. The EU fully supports special and differential treatment for developing countries, in particular LDCs. To make sure that SDT translates to a more level playing field, it should be precise, effective and operational. The WTO agreements recognise two categories of members developing countries and least developing countries. We are in favour of looking into the specific challenges of individual WTO members, but we do not support proliferation of subcategories of developing countries in trade agreements. We absolutely do not agree with one-sided narratives on unilateral environmental trade measures which are designed to support achieving global commitments on climate change. In this respect, the EU's environmental measures are based on thorough impact assessments and carefully designed not to discriminate or treat imports differently from domestically produced products. The EU furthermore engages with its partners actively on these measures, both in the WTO and bilaterally. Openness, transparency and constructive dialogue are key to ensuring the effectiveness of such measures. and also help target support to partners in view of adjusting to them. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of European Union. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Islamic Republic of Iran to be followed by the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Thank you, Chair, for the floor. Allow me to highlight a few priorities on my national capacities. Mr. Chair, we urge the elimination of unilateral coercive measures. Such unilateral actions are illegal and undermine the principle enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and international law, but also severely threaten the freedom of trade and investment. On sub-item C on accession to WTO, this sub-item limits accession just to LDCs. We propose that this sub-item be corrected through reference to the accession of all developing countries to the WTO, recognizing the contribution that their accession would make to the rapid and full integration of such countries into the multilateral trading system. Then, Mr. Chairman, we have a difference and commodities to export. We propose that diversity of energy resources be reflected accurately in the text. Reference to the G20, as it is not an inclusive platform, we do not support that one. Term of the developing countries, as my colleague from Indonesia mentioned, should be reflected accurately in the text. International trade system must be universal, rule-based, and at the same time, non-discriminatory, open, fair, inclusive, predictable, and equitable, and transparent. We also propose that this section reflect the central role of the UNCTAD, and then at the end, Mr. Chairman, we support the factual point that made by our colleague that F54 must be focused on its initial mandate and refrain from touching other issues that do not relate to this process, same it's come back to the WTO and as well as the climate change issues. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iran and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa, followed by India and Uruguay.

Chairperson, allow me to quote from the outcome of the Africa regional consultation on FFD4 held a few weeks ago. There is a rise in unilateral trade measures, including the CBAM, which discriminate against developing countries by unilaterally imposing sustainability standards on their exports, which threaten not only their exports but production processes within their economies. Africa calls for strengthened multilateral dialogue and cooperation to address climate and trade issues in ways that support rather than hinder developing countries' industrialization efforts. Such measures should be stopped. The strength of the FfD process is that it addresses both the financial and enabling environment dimension, in particular obstacles to development. One such obstacle, which will erase decades of progress and exacerbate poverty, is unilateral environmental trade measures. This is the elephant in the room that FfD 4 needs to address squarely if it is to make a difference to the lives of the poor. We are concerned that the language in section 1E, rather than contributing to solving the problem, instead legitimizes these illegal measures. Impact assessments, as well as due diligence with multilaterally agreed rules, should have been done before the horse had bolted. Furthermore, we cannot support the idea of scaling up support to assist countries with compliance, as this amounts to condoning what are illegal measures. We instead call for suspension of the implementation of CBAMs, as was done with the deforestation regulation, to allow for a cooperative multilateral solution. FFD4 should specifically call for mandated bodies to be set up at the UNFCCC on trade and climate change and for the WTO working group on trade and climate to be strengthened. CBAMs, however, present developing countries with an opportunity to reflect on whether the new economy, or so called green transition, ought to operate in the same way as the fossil fuel and raw material industries have to date. Should strategic minerals and rare earths simply be handed over at low cost to developed countries, or should they be sold at real value or be utilised for local industrialisation and the creation of local value chains, as contained in the UNSG's position paper on resourcing the energy transition towards equity and justice. In this regard, we warmly welcome the section on trade in critical minerals and commodities in the elements paper, including support for the recommendations of the SG's panel on CETMs, which will contribute to ensuring that FFD results in a meaningful outcome by igniting a new growth path for developing countries. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa and India. You have the floor, followed by Uruguay, Iraq, and Pakistan.

Thank you, Chair. India strongly advocates for a rule-based, non-discriminatory, open, fair, inclusive, equitable, and transparent multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its core. In designing and implementing sustainable trade policies, the development trajectory of developing countries should be given due recognition while respecting each country's policy space and sovereignty. We encourage the WTO to strengthen special and differential treatment for all developing countries, including LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS. On the elements paper, we would like to highlight the following points. In order to protect and strengthen the WTO, it is important to bring necessary reforms based on the mandates received in the past ministerial conferences. It is essential to address the past ministerial mandates by delivering outcomes on issues like permanent solution on public stockholding for food security purposes on priority basis before any discussion on current challenges. WTO is a member-driven organization and all the decision-making is based on consensus. Appointing an external agency for review of obsolete trade agreements is not an appropriate step to uphold policy space in trade agreements. Therefore, we would request a reconsideration of this recommendation. We underscore the need for genuine, transparent, and equitable measures that do not disproportionately burden poorer nations. There are emerging serious concerns regarding the increasing use of unilateral measures impacting trade, which are sought to be justified in the guise of environmental protection. Measures being put unilaterally in the name of combating climate change and environmental protection, including the carbon border adjustment mechanism, place onerous requirements upon exporting countries, such as the calculation of embedded emissions. Current language is generic and does not highlight the specific concern of environmental pretext used to impose restrictive measures and therefore the outcome document must address this issue to deliver on a fair multilateral trading system for all. As we deliberate in FFD4 on the themes of sustainable development, we appreciate the inclusion of critical energy transition minerals in the section on trade in the elements paper. I thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of India. Uruguay, you have the floor, followed by Iraq, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Regarding this section, international trade as a driver of development, we will provide some comments, in addition to what has already been stated by the G77 and China, these should be considered preliminary comments considering the session's length and level of detail will require more in-depth analysis. One, regarding point A, revitalizing the multilateral trading system through the WTO. Subpoint d on the creation of a group of experts to review the role of trade as a driver of sustainable development and provide recommendations for the reform of the WTO, we consider that this could entail duplication of tasks already carried out by the WTO. However, notwithstanding this, it is suggested that The term review could be replaced by analyse and complement existing inputs. Two, we positively regard the inclusion of point b deepening regional trade integration through regional trade agreements. However, the language should maintain a general reference to the role of regional agreements given their importance, without specifying particular regional agreements. Then three, regarding point D, maintaining policy space in trade agreements, we would like to highlight that for Uruguay, trade contributes to ensuring food security as it promotes better resource allocation. It makes production more efficient and accessible. In this regard, My country is concerned about the phrase concerning the space for implementing policies to ensure food security, as it could potentially conflict with WTO rules. In such cases, it would be appropriate to put the language in context, referring to compliance with WTO rules or indicating that such policies should not create trade barriers. Lastly, but not least in importance, the Elements Paper lacks crucial aspects to ensure an effective multilateral and transparent system, such as the restoration of the dispute settlement system and the need to advance forward with the reform established in Article 20 of the Agreement on Agriculture.

Thank you. Thank you

very much, Uruguay. Iraq has the floor. to be followed by Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Iraq emphasizes the importance to enhance regional complementarity in trade as an effective means to support sustainable development. And we support the expansion of the scope of regional trades to include a group of logistic agreements that would vitalize regional international trade and connection. These initiatives must be comprehensive to enhance trade cooperation between all regions and not to focus on certain regions only. We believe that a multilateral trade system that is based on transparent and open nondiscriminatory principles is a main foundation to achieve sustainable development. As with trade in minerals and basic products. We support using and the inclusion of clean energy in all discussions related to this issue without specifying specific minerals only. We call to a comprehensive approach that includes different investments towards net zero carbon, such as carbon sequestration and others. We see that ensuring energy security and the development of economy means that we need to take certain elements into account when working on the climate issue. We must not focus on one aspect only in energy. We have must look comprehensively to all energy sources and technologies to achieve comprehensive sustainable development objectives. As for recommendations related to critical minerals for energy. These recommendations must come within the framework of comprehensive negotiations that are inclusive. We believe that the FFD4 and other mechanisms must have clear principles and should not go beyond their allotted scope. Thank you.

Thank you to the representative of Iraq. And now I give the floor to the representative of Pakistan.

Thank you, co-chairs. We appreciate the reference to unilateral environmental measures in this section. We believe that the zero draft should contain an outright call to halt and suspend such measures. We do not at this stage support the reference to impact assessments or scaling up aid for trade support for such adjustments, as we believe that this justifies them. The restoration of the WTO two-tier dispute settlement body is also key. We need a clear message to be included in this regard in the F54 outcome document. We are still examining the reference to an independent expert group to review the contribution of trade to development. We do believe that F54 provides a key opportunity to revive the development dimension of trade. However, the reference to building on ongoing discussions in the G20 in this regard is not acceptable for us. In the title of section C, we suggest changing most vulnerable countries to developing countries in line with the G77 submission. On the topic of critical minerals, we believe that FFD4 is not the appropriate forum to have a blanket endorsement or support of the principles and recommendations of the SG's panel, as not all of them are strictly relevant in the context of the financing for development process. Instead, the focus should be on those recommendations which are focused on providing developing countries producing such minerals with support for local value addition and other such measures. Thus, a nuanced approach to the recommendations of the SG's panel must be taken. We support the focus on investor state dispute settlements in trade and investment agreements through a multilateral approach and the proposal for an advisory support service for developing countries in this regards. Rather than inviting UNCTAD to conduct a review of obsolete agreements, we suggest instead that FFD4 should contain a commitment to conduct an intergovernmental review of such agreements with the support of UNCTAD. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Pakistan and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh, followed by the Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Chair. Bangladesh underscores that universal, rule-based, open, transparent, predictable, and equitable multilateral trading systems should contribute to sustainable development. We express concern over the trend of rising protectionism, trade tensions, and geopolitical uncertainty, as evident in the time of recent cascading crisis. These risks not only hamper economies, but also imperil concerted multilateral solutions at a time when international trade collaboration is needed more than ever. We underscore the urgent need to keep commodity markets, in particular food, fertilizer and energy market, open, equitable, transparent, non-discriminatory and predictable by eliminating trade restrictive measures and distortions. We underscore the continuing need for international special support, trade support measures to increase economic resilience and diversification of the LDCs, including the graduating ones and other vulnerable countries. in such a way that their structural transformation is sustainable and economically meaningful. In this regard, we call for strengthening special and differential treatment provisions in WTO agreements to address LDC specific vulnerabilities, including simplified rules of origin and extended transition periods for graduating LDCs. We also call for the Operationalization of TRIPS flexibilities to ensure intellectual property regimes support technology transfer to LDCs. We call for scaling up aid for trade commitments to LDCs with a focus on building productive capacities, particularly in agro-processing, sustainable industrialization, and trade-related infrastructure. Develop dedicated trade finance mechanisms through the development banks to support LDC small and medium enterprises with a focus on women and youth entrepreneurs. We call for ensuring full implementation of duty-free, quota-free market access for all products originating in LDCs and eliminate tariff escalation on processed goods. Provide technical and financial assistance to integrate LDCs into global value chains. Advocate for expedited capacity building programs under WTO's trade facilitation agreement tailored to LDCs needs. and the inclusion of LDCs in WTO Dispute Resolution Capacity Program, reform trade agreements to preserve policy space for LDCs in areas, particularly food security and climate-related measures. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Bangladesh, and I now give the floor to the Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Chair. I would like to thank the co-facilitators for drafting the element paper. The Republic of Korea firmly believe in the critical role of international trade in achieving sustainable development. In this regard, I would like to highlight three key points for further discussion. First, the multilateral trading system needs to be revitalized as an engine for sustainable development. A rule-based, non-discriminatory, transparently open and fair multilateral trading system must be strengthened. The international community should support the revitalization of the multilateral trade. It is essential that global trade remain inclusive, equitable and sustainable for all nations, particularly developing countries. Second, the relationship between multilateral and regional trade system must be clarified clearly clarified in further discussion. Regional trade system should serve as a building block to strengthen the multilateral approach. Third, the outcome document should reflect the ongoing discussions and agreement in other trade related fora. This will ensure coherence and consistency across international trade policies, aligning efforts from various platforms such as the WTO, regional trade organizations, and other global trade initiatives. Chair, with only seven months remaining until the FFD4, we look forward to the discussions on trade as a key source of development finance. The Republic of Korea remains committed to contributing constructively to this process. My delegation reserves the right to provide its comments on other elements of the paper. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea, and I would like to give the floor now to civil society. And in the first place, I have Third World Network Africa. Please, you have the floor.

Excellencies, thanks for the opportunity to make this input on behalf of the civil society mechanism to the FFD. We begin by declaring our support for the positions of developing country member states against certain specific measures taken by developed countries, such as unilateral coercive measures, as well as disguised protectionist policies like the carbon border adjustment mechanism. These measures exacerbate the existing imbalances for the multilateral trade regime, which work against developing countries and must therefore be stopped. If trade is to be an appropriate engine of development, we must fundamentally rethink the current paradigm of universal and indiscriminate trade and financial liberalization and deregulation of the WTO and other institutional trade regimes, which is also reflected in much of the Addis Ababa Action Plan. Especially for African and most other developing countries, Trade must become an instrument to transform their primary commodity export dependent economic structures for enhanced productivity in smallholder agriculture and agricultural rural economy, the development of domestic manufacture, the promotion in particular of critical minerals in domestic and regional economic linkages and industrialization, and a modern service economy. In short, trade must promote agrarian change in rural areas and industrialization. In a word, trade policy must be driven by a strategy of industrialization as a part of industrial policy. Such fundamental rethinking cannot take place in regimes such as the WTO, where they have baked in the DNA of liberalization and deregulation. Instead, the fundamental rethinking about trade and development must be in the United Nations system, with its history and capacity for focus on the needs of developing countries. Therefore, The fourth conference of finance and development must take up this agenda and not with ineffective soft language of aspirations, but as a process that leads to effective interstate agreement on fundamental norms of trade and development. Thank you very much.

Thank you very much. And I would like to give the floor to the next representative of civil society, which is Southern and Eastern African Trade Information and Negotiations Institute. Please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. My name is Jane Narunga from Seattle, Uganda, speaking on behalf of the Civil Society FFD Mechanism. I would like to associate myself with the positions taken by developing member states and the previous speak on this issue of promoting trade as an engine for sustainable development and structure economic transformation of developing and allow me to make the following three issues. One, investment policy must be revised and rescued from the fetish of attracting foreign investment at the expense of other socio-economic and environmental priorities. Instead, countries have the policy space to regulate and target foreign investment to strategic sectors commensurate with their transformation agenda, and to be able to reinvest the wealth generated from the investments in their economies rather than being externally appropriated through least and least means. The imperative The imperative for a greater space for better targeting of foreign investment and preventing the blockage of national policies for development requires an end to the investor state dispute settlement provision in all international investment agreements whose history so far has been one of abuse by transnational corporations for unjustified profit. Two, it's necessary and urgent to revisit and strengthen the principle of special differential treatment in international, regional and bilateral trade agreements. FFD4 should take the lead in making It's, uh, S and D more robust, precise, operational, and effective enough to provide the necessary flexibilities and policy space, uh, to enable countries, especially LDCs, to achieve their, uh, development objectives. Finally, and above all, international trade policy is political, and every country must enjoy effective participation in all aspects of the process of decision making and implementation. Global trade policy making has been dominated by rich countries and their corporations, and has in turn hijacked national policy making in global south countries and prevented the participation of democratic institutions, as well as people's voices. they are in. The current impasse in the WTO owes much to this big power abuse. FFDF4 has to show example and rise above this. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of civil society. And then I would like to give the floor to IFAP, followed by Senegal.

Thank you very much. We thank and welcome the chapter on importance of boosting trade in LDCs. The chapter calls for support in integrating LDCs in global value chains, particularly on commodity processing, complying with issues such as international quality standards and sustainability standards. The chapter also calls for support in value addition in agriculture. All this is welcome. We also want to highlight the importance that the outcome document recognizes that in addition to calling for, uh, the integration of LDCs, uh, to global value change in agriculture, focus is also put on linking, local and regional agricultural value chains that involve smallholders to these global value chains. This is very important from the point of view of poverty reduction and rural development and transformation. Thank you.

Okay, and now I would like to give the floor to Civil Society and Nanjing World Youth Development Service Center. You have the floor.

Distinguished Madam Chair, delegates, now the international trade is facing unprecedented challenges. In recent years, tariffs on international trade have become increasingly frequent worldwide. This policy, guided by unilateralism and protectionism, not only disrupts the normal operation of international trade rules, but also weakens the possibility of financing development through trade. International trade is the engine of global economic growth and prosperity, an important bridge for promoting connectivity among countries, and a crucial means of promoting development and supporting developing countries. The increase of tariffs and other trade barriers has not only restricted the free flow of goods and services, but also posed a threat to the stability of the global industrial chain and supply chain, and ultimately harm the well-being of people in all countries, especially the interests of developing countries and least developed countries. Therefore, as members of civil society, we have the following three suggestions. Firstly, uphold the rule-based multilateral trading system and respect the core position of the WTO as the maker of international trade rules. Establish a transparent, rule-based and non-discriminatory trading system to provide a fair competitive environment for developing countries. We believe that through a fair, just and open trading system, we can achieve more inclusive and sustainable economic development. Secondly, strengthen the punishment for violations of international trade rules. The UN and other relevant organizations, as well as the international community, should publicly and transparently condemn acts that violate international trade rules and call on relevant countries to immediately stop such practices and UN member states to designate punitive measures. This is not only a necessary means to maintain global economic stability, but also a firm defense of global fairness and justice. Thirdly, leverage technological support and the role of the private sector to reduce trade barriers and promote international trade. Strengthen cooperation between international organizations, governments, and the private sector, enhance technical support and capacity building to help developing countries better integrate into the global trading system. Distinguished guests, the process of globalization is irreversible, but its path requires our joint guidance. Trade barriers and protectionism cannot make the world a better place. Only openness and cooperation can bring true prosperity and peace to human society. The employment.

I thank the distinguished representative of civil society and with these distinguished delegates we have just heard the last speaker for this meeting. We will reconvene this afternoon at 3:00 p.m. in this conference room to hold interactive discussion six on debt and debt sustainability and seven on addressing systemic issues. I wish you a good luncheon this afternoon. Thank you and see you later.