(7th meeting) Executive Board of UNDP, UNFPA and UNOPS (Second regular session 2025)

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, colleagues, dear friends, very good morning. I declare open the 7th meeting of the 2nd Regular Session 2025 of this Executive Board of the UNDP, UNFPA, and UNOPS. This segment is being held in accordance with the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board Thank you, Mr. President, for your remarks and the approved annual work plan. We will now proceed to item 14 of the agenda, the adoption of decisions and the approval of the regional UNDP program documents for Africa, Asia and the Pacific, the Arab States, Europe and the CIS, Latin America and the Caribbean for the period 2026-2030. 2029. And I have here on the podium with me Ms. Mahsa Jafari, Secretary of the Executive Board, and I would like to thank her again for her efficient work to prepare this meeting. The Board will now consider the adoption of the 12 decisions and the approval of the regional Program documents of UNDP. If there are no objections, I will consider that the Executive Board would like to approve the draft decision on item 2, up-to-date information on the evaluation of the way in which the Executive Director exercises their governance and oversight It is so decided. We're off to a good start. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision on item 11, UNOPS Strategic Plan 2026. It is so decided. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision on item 12, financial, budgetary, and administrative matters on the UNOPS budget Estimates for the Biennium 2026-2027 and the Annual Statistical Report on Procurement Activities of United Nations System Organizations 2024. It is so decided. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision on item 13, third-party review of the comprehensive response plan and the associated management response. It is so decided. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision On item 17, Process Innovation and Digitalization Program and Funding. It is so decided. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision on item 7. UNFPA Strategic Plan 2026-2029. It is so decided. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision on Item 8, Financial, Budgetary and Administrative Matters on the UNFPA Integrated Budget 2026-2029. It is so decided. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision on item 9, UNFPA Structured Funding Dialogue. It is so decided. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision on item 3, UNDP Strategic Plan 2026-2029. It is so decided. We have 3 strategic plans adopted. We're making excellent progress. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision on item 4, Financial, Budgetary, and Administrative Matters on the UNDP Integrated Resource Plan and Integrated Budget Estimates 2026-2029. It is so decided. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision on item 5. UNDP Structured Funding Dialogue. It is so decided. Lastly, if I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to adopt the draft decision on item 15, UNDP Evaluation. It is so decided. We will move on to the approval of the UNDP regional program documents. We shall now proceed to the approval of the regional, the UNDP regional program documents. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve the UNDP regional program document for Africa 2026-2029. It is so decided. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the board wishes to approve the UNDP Regional Program Document for Arab States 2026-2029. It is so decided. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the board wishes to approve the UNDP Regional Program Document for Europe and the CIS 2026-2029. It is so decided. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Board wishes to approve the UNDP Regional Programme Document for Latin America and the Caribbean 2026 to 2029. It is so decided. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Board wishes to approve the UNDP Regional Programme Document for Asia and the Pacific 2026-2029. It is so decided. The Board's decisions and discussions from this session will be reflected in the report of the 2nd regular session, which will be circulated in due course. We'll take a short break to rearrange the podium, please.

If the regional directors come and join me, The podium, I will appreciate very much.

Thank you.

We shall now continue item 6, UNDP program countries and related matters, in relation with which the board will consider the approval of the country program documents. and the extension of country programs. I would like to welcome to the podium Ms. Aruna Sankova, the Director of the Regional Office for Africa, Ms. Ivana Sefcovic, Director of the Regional Office for Europe and the CIS, and Ms. Kani Wajarama, Assistant Administrator and Director, Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific. 16 country program documents will be presented for your consideration and approval in accordance with Executive Board Decision 2014/7. For the Africa region, Côte d'Ivoire, Eswatini, Liberia, and Uganda. For Europe and the CIS, Armenia, Republic of Belarus, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, Republic of North Macedonia, Serbia, including the results of the resource framework for Kosovo as an addendum, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. For the Asia and the Pacific region, China, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste. The Executive Board is also requested to to approve the 6th 2-year extension of the country program for Afghanistan, approve the 4th 1-year extension of the country program for Myanmar, approve the 2nd 1-year extension of the country program for Yemen, and take note of the 1st 1-year extension of the country programs for Lebanon, Libya, and Tunisia. Before I give the floor to the UNDP regional directors to present the country program documents, I would like to first of all address the subject of the extensions of the country programs. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board would like to approve the 6th 2-year extension of the Country Programme for Afghanistan and the 4th 1-year extension of the Country Programme for Myanmar. I see no objection. It is so decided. If I hear no objections, I will consider I take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve the second 1-year extension of the country program for Yemen. I see no objection. It is so decided. Lastly, if I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to take note of the first 1-year extension of the country programs for Lebanon, Libya, and Tunisia, which have been approved by the administrator as presented in the document DP/2025/17. I see no objections. It is so decided. We will now move on to the consideration for the Africa region: Côte d'Ivoire, Eswatini, Liberia, and Uganda. Ms. Eziakonwa, you have the floor to present these documents. You have the floor.

Thank you and good morning, Mr. President, to you and to the distinguished members of the Executive Board and, of course, our esteemed representatives of the member states, particularly member states of the countries that we're looking at today. Ladies and gentlemen, I'm really pleased to be able to present for your approval the country program documents for Côte d'Ivoire, Eswatini, Liberia, and Uganda. These 4 programs were formulated as usual in close consultation with respective governments and also a broad range of stakeholders and our close partners. They are firmly anchored in national development strategies. They are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation frameworks, the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the new UNDP Strategic Plan 2026 to 2029. Thank you so much for adopting it, because that really legitimizes also these country program documents in terms of alignment. Above all, these program documents are guided by the principle of leaving no one behind. I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to member states for their constructive engagement and also the valuable inputs that we received, which helped to enrich this document. Let me start with Côte d'Ivoire. Côte d'Ivoire is one of Africa's fastest-growing economies, with quite significant progress that's been made in poverty reduction and human development. Yet, we see that challenges persist, especially with youth unemployment, informality, and vulnerability to climate risks. The new CPD therefore prioritizes inclusive structural transformation with a focus on women, youth, and vulnerable groups through support to governance, digitalization, and institutional capacity building, UNDP will foster social cohesion, green jobs, and resilience to climate change. Second is Eswatini, a country that still faces a high rate of poverty and rising inequality, compounded by limited economic diversification. The CPD will therefore support national efforts for economic transformation. Youth empowerment, and climate resilience. It will advance inclusive governance. It will promote MSMEs and also digital innovation and strengthen environmental sustainability, all anchored on promotion of gender equality. Liberia. This is a country that has maintained democratic stability but continues to face institutional fragility. Poverty, and climate risks. The CPD aligns with the government's Arest Agenda and also its Vision 2030. It focuses on human capital development through equitable services and digital innovation, stronger governance and social cohesion, as well as climate action and inclusive green growth. UNDP will also support domestic resource mobilization through the Integrated National Financing Framework. Lastly, Uganda. Uganda has made steady progress nearing graduation from least developed country status. However, regional disparities, reliance on subsistence agriculture, and climate vulnerability remain significant challenges. This CPD supports Uganda's Vision 2040 and the 4th National Development Plan of the country with a focus on transformative human development, climate-smart ecosystems, and inclusive governance. Mr. President, distinguished members, the 4 CPDs before you presented today reflect national ownership, very strong alignment with continental and global frameworks, and of course UNDP's commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. We will adopt a systems and portfolio approach to promote green innovation, expand opportunities for youth, and strengthen institutions to ensure progress benefits all. We expect the Executive Board to approve the country program documents for these 4 countries, and we look forward to working closely with the governments to implement their respective country programs effectively. Thank you. Effectively, and we want to reaffirm our commitment to resource mobilization, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that those activities are successful.

I thank you.

Muchas gracias, señora Eschacón.

Thank you very much, Ms. Eschacón. I now open the floor for comments. Côte d'Ivoire, please.

Thank you, sir. Excellencies, dear colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, I wish to thank Ms. Ahona Ezia-Konwa, Regional Director of the UNDP for Africa, for the quality of the CPD for Côte d'Ivoire for 2026-2030 presented by you, madam, for final review in view for its adoption by our board. It's important to recall that this new country programme was drafted according to an inclusive and participatory process and is in perfect coherence with the national— our national priorities, especially those defined in the National Development Plan 2026-2030 currently being finalised and the Cooperation Framework of the UN for Sustainable Development CCDD 2026-2030. This document that seeks to support Côte d'Ivoire in its ambition to build together a nation of solidarity, stability, and prosperity was approved and officially endorsed by the Ivorian government. We particularly welcome the introduction of initiatives contributing to accelerating structural transformation of the Ivorian economy through innovation, digitalization, and the promotion of green jobs, focusing on socioeconomic inclusion of vulnerable groups, in particular women, youth and rural populations in target regions, in this case the north and the mountainous northern eastern regions— western regions rather— of Côte d'Ivoire that really need growth to leave nobody behind. And also the planned support of strengthening local government social cohesion as well as modernization of public services through digitalization. By guiding the priorities of the country program on climate and digital. In order to capitalize on the comparative advantages of UNDP leadership on these issues, the Ivorian government and its strategic partner are providing the means to overcome the significant challenges to meaningfully improve living conditions for the populations across the country. I'd wish to applaud the crucial role played by the UNDP in Côte d'Ivoire supporting governance, consolidation and building of peace, mobilizing domestic and external resources, supporting the efforts of the government to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs. The government and all of its national stakeholders are counting on the effective implementation of this cooperation framework to support the efforts of the government to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and the goals of the new program for 2026 to 2030 aligned with the 26th C3 Agenda of the African Union and the 2030 Agenda of the African Union. Thank you.

I give the floor to Uganda, please.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, Uganda commenced the UN Development Programme in Uganda for consulting with the Uganda government and other relevant stakeholders during the preparation of the draft UNDP Country Programme Document for Uganda 2026-2030, which is fully aligned to Uganda Vision 2040, National Development Plan 4, 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and Agenda 2063. Uganda also commends the UNDP as well as the wider UN entities and partners for their critical contribution towards the implementation of the NDPD for Uganda 2021-2025 Uganda endorses the presentation of the draft CPD, UNDP CPD 2026-2030, to the Executive Board for approval. It provides the framework that shall guide the collaboration between the Ugandan government and UNDP in Uganda under the coordination of the UN Resident Coordinator. The program's 3 interlinked and mutually reinforcing strategic portfolios are envisaged to support the achievement of 3 outcome areas of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for Uganda 2026-2030 and contribute to Uganda's vision of building a modern, people-centered, independent, integrated, resilient, self-sustaining economy, which is at the center of Uganda's NDP4 and its Vision 2040. We realize now more than ever the need to remain focused on high-impact growth areas that will propel double-digit growth over a 5-year period and subsequently contribute to Uganda's tenfold growth of the economy over the 15 years leading up to 2040. Uganda acknowledges the development results achieved during the ending CPD. Uganda learned lessons from its implementation and has now positioned itself to leverage this experience to collectively and better monitor with UNDP in holistic the progress towards the attainment of this draft CPD outcome indicators, which are anchored in the UNCDF for Uganda 2026-2030. In conclusion, I reiterate Uganda's commitment to ensure the full and timely implementation of this CPD in line with these national development plans and priorities. We call upon the international community to mobilize and provide the required support towards the implementation. I thank Uganda. Thank you, Mr.

President, for your statement. And I now give the floor to Eswatini. Eswatini, you have the floor.

Mr. President, members of the Executive Board, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, on behalf of the Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini, I wish to express my sincere appreciation to UNDP for the presentation of the proposed Country Programme Document for 2026 to 2030. My delegation fully endorses this country programme and we reaffirm our commitment to supporting UNDP's presence in Eswatini. We particularly value the inclusive and consultative approach taken by the UNDP country team in engaging government institutions, private sector, civil society, and development partners in shaping of the new program. We are therefore pleased to confirm that the proposed program is well aligned with our national development priorities, including our National Development Plan for 2023 to 2028 and the commitments we made under the African Union Agenda 2063, amongst other commitments. Mr. President, Eswatini, as a low-middle-income country, continues to face significant development challenges, including high youth unemployment, persistent poverty, and vulnerability to climate change. As a landlocked and climate-sensitive country, the Kingdom of Eswatini is disproportionately affected by environmental shocks, which threaten to reverse hard-won development gains. We are therefore grateful that the CPD rightly emphasizes resilient building, inclusive growth, sustainable development, which are central to our agenda for national development. Mr. President, to zoom in on our climate situation, the increasing frequency of climate-related shocks such as droughts and floods continue to pose significant risks to our development agenda. We are therefore appreciative of UNDP's leadership in climate resilience, and environmental sustainability, which has been instrumental in strengthening the country's adaptive capacity. As we speak, Eswatini is currently articulating its NDC 3.0 with technical support from UNDP. In conclusion, Mr. President, we would like to take this opportunity to call on UNDP to continue its advocacy for countries in special situations such as ourselves and to underscore the urgent need for scaled-up climate financing. Going forward, we look forward to deepening our partnership with UNDP and to working together to achieve transformative and inclusive development outcomes. I thank you.

Thank you for your comments, for your statement. This That concludes our review of the country program documents for Côte d'Ivoire, Eswatini, Liberia, and Uganda in accordance with Executive Board Decision 2014/7. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve these UNDP country program documents.

Yes.

I see no objections. It is so decided. I now give the floor to Ms. Zivkovic to present the country program documents for Armenia, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, the Republic of North Macedonia, Serbia, including the Results and Resources Framework for Kosovo as an addendum, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Ms. Director, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President, distinguished members of the Executive Board, Excellencies. I'm pleased to present to you 9 country program documents from Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States: Armenia, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, North Macedonia, Serbia, which also includes the results and resources framework for Kosovo as an addendum, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. UNDP greatly appreciates the close collaboration with all stakeholders in the preparation of these documents. Each CPD is closely aligned with national priorities, the 2030 Agenda, the UNDP Strategic Plan, and clearly derived from the respective UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks. Progress and setbacks coexist in our region. Human development is rising, though gains are uneven. And as the 2025 Human Development Report underlines, the next few years will be decisive for how societies harness AI and other technologies to broaden opportunity and human agency. This is especially true in our region. Despite stronger social protection and economic gains, inequalities persist. Demographic shifts are accelerating. Trust in institutions and the social contract has weakened, and climate and environmental risks are mounting. The implication is clear. Now more than ever, we need coherent, country-led, and nationally owned responses that protect hard-won gains, build resilience, and keep the SDGs on track. This next generation of CPDs anticipates a rapidly evolving development landscape. Let me now briefly highlight key features of each. In Armenia, UNDP will contribute to strengthening resilience, inclusive socio-economic development, climate action, and effective governance while addressing the continued impact of the refugee crisis. In Belarus, the focus is on fostering a resilient economy, advancing digital transformation and green technologies, reducing regional disparities, and enhancing access to quality education, healthcare, and social protection. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the CPD addresses human capital development, inclusive green growth, as well as accountable institutions and and social cohesion. In Kazakhstan, UNDP will support economic diversification, inclusive governance, climate resilience, and the reduction of rural-urban disparities. In North Macedonia, the program supports inclusive social and human development, sustainable economy and decent work, green transition by focusing on local governance reform, youth inclusion, and digital transformation. In Serbia, the CPD prioritizes inclusive and effective governance, knowledge-based economy, and future-ready workforce, as well as resilient communities and environmental protection. For Kosovo, focuses on human capital development, accountable governance, the rule of law and social cohesion, and sustainable economic development. In Türkiye, building on lessons from the 2023 earthquake response and the country's role as the host of one of the world's largest refugee populations, UNDP will support local governance, rural development, green and digital transformation, climate resilience, and zero waste initiatives. In Turkmenistan, the CPD contributes to economic development, the expansion expansion of digital governance, stronger health system, and advance the country's climate agenda. In Uzbekistan, the program focuses on strengthening access to justice, anti-corruption, employment, rural development, and resilience, with special attention to the RLC region. Finally, let me acknowledge the trust and partnership of member states, particularly program countries. that finance their own development priorities through government development cofinancing. And to our donors, your support is the engine that turns ambition into measurable results. And I'm looking forward to the Executive Board's approval, and I thank you all.

Thank you, madam. I will now open the floor In order for the delegations: North Macedonia, Armenia, Turkmenistan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Türkiye, and the Russian Federation. North Macedonia, please.

Thank you, Mr. President, distinguished members of the Executive Board. It is with pleasure that I address you today on behalf of the government of my country to express our sincere appreciation for the continued partnership and support of the UNDP. This year marks 30 years of a strong and enduring partnership since UNDP established its presence in our country. We warmly welcome the new UNDP Country Programme as part of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 26-30. This program arrives at a critical time for our country. We are firmly committed to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to our European Union accession process. Our National Development Strategy 24-44 lays out a transformative vision focused on competitiveness, human capital, and good governance. These priorities are clearly reflected in the 4 strategic pillars of the UN SDGs, and we are pleased to see UNDP aligning its efforts with our national objectives. We value UNDP's deep and longstanding engagement in areas vital to our development: inclusive social services, economic opportunities, local governance, digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience. Importantly, This program reflects our shared commitment to leave no one behind, addressing the needs of youth, women, Roma communities, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. The results we have achieved together so far speak to the strength of this partnership, from job creation in the care economy and support for local governance to pioneering green financing and enhancing our climate reporting capacity. UNDP has been a trusted partner in building a more resilient and inclusive country. As we face ongoing challenges from demographic decline and economic transition to climate risk and institutional reform, we see the New Country Programme as a key instrument to unlock solutions, attract investment, and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. We reaffirm our full support for the implementation of this program and our readiness to work closely with UNDP, other UN agencies, donors, and stakeholders to ensure its success. Together, through shared commitment and coordinated action, we can continue to build a stronger, greener, and more equitable future for all our citizens. We therefore express our full support for the ongoing UNDP program and call upon the Executive Board to continue backing these efforts which are crucial to achieving a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for all our citizens. I thank you.

Gracias a usted por su declaración.

Thank you for your statement. Armenia, please.

Thank you, President. At the outset, I would like to thank distinguished Regional Director for presenting the priorities of the UNDP Country Programme Document for Armenia for 2026-2030 and express Armenia's strong support for its adoption. This document is a result of an inclusive, multi-stakeholder consultation process engaging government institutions, civil society, academia, the private sector, and our development partners. We are pleased to note that this Country Programme Document is fully aligned with Armenia's national priorities and long-term development strategies. It is also in line with the objectives in the new UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for Armenia for 2026-2030, ensuring coherence and complementarity in the UN Country Team's support to Armenia's development agenda under the guidance and leadership of the Resident Coordinator's Office. We particularly commend the CPT's focus on 3 interlinked areas of advancing inclusive socio-economic development, accelerating green transition and strengthening resilience to climate change and natural disasters, and strengthening democratic governance and institutions and safeguarding human rights. We value the CPT's integrated approach across humanitarian, response, development, and peace, together with strong emphasis on evidence-based programming and innovative financing. With Armenia's incoming presidency of the Biodiversity COP17, the CBD's reinvigorated focus on environmental agenda will serve as an important accelerator for our country's green transition. Mr. President, Armenia values the longstanding partnership and cooperation with the UNDP. We stand ready to work closely to translate this ambitious program into tangible results on the ground. We are confident that this CBD will serve as a strong framework to advance Armenia's sustainable development and resilience in the years to come. I thank you.

Thank you for your statement. Turkmenistan, please.

Thank you, Mr. President, distinguished members of the Executive Board, UNDP leadership, dear colleagues. The Government of Turkmenistan attaches great importance to its longstanding partnership with the United Nations Development Programme. For over 3 decades, UNDP has been a strategic and reliable partner in supporting our national priorities in sustainable development, governance, digitalization, healthcare, environmental protection, and economic diversification. We highly value the inclusive and constructive process through which the new UNDP Country Programme Document for Turkmenistan was prepared, in close consultation with government counterparts, civil society, youth, women and men, and other stakeholders. As it has been mentioned by Ms. Živković, the new program fully aligns with Turkmenistan's National Program for Social Economic Development and reflects our strong commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It will help strengthen governance and digital transformation, promote a greener and more diversified economy, build climate resilience and expand equitable access to quality healthcare and social services. The Government of Turkmenistan is pleased to extend its full support to the new UNDP Country Programme Document. We are confident that its implementation will further enhance national capacities, foster innovation, and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that no one is left behind. In conclusion, I wish to express our sincere appreciation to UNDP country office team and regional bureau for their constructive engagement, technical expertise, and continued support in advancing Turkmenistan's development priorities. Thank you.

Thank you for your statement. I now give the floor to the Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina. You have the floor.

Mr.

President, Its 3 priorities, inclusive green growth, human capital development, and accountable institutions, speak directly to the challenges and opportunities of our time. Excellencies, as particular important guiding framework for us is the Secretary-General July report, Seizing the Moment of Opportunity: Supercharging the New Era of Renewable Efficiency and Electrification. This report highlights with urgency what Bosnia and Herzegovina recognizes as a national priority: to accelerate renewable energy deployment, improve energy efficiency, and expand electrification as the backbone of our green transition. For Bosnia and Herzegovina, these are not abstract aspirations. The transition to renewables and widespread electrification is central to reducing dependence on fossil fuels, improving air quality, and lowering costs for households and businesses. At the same time, it is a powerful driver of economic modernization, social equity, and integration with the European Union. But to seize this opportunity, we need deeper and sustained engagement from UNDP and the wider UN development system. Beyond technical projects, we require UNDP leadership in supporting new legislation, regulatory reform, and institutional capacity building that will allow Bosnia and Herzegovina to unlock large-scale investments in renewable energy, set ambitious energy efficiency standards, and modernize its electricity grids. This is where UNDP's global expertise and convening power can make the decisive difference, helping us design the policies and framework that will turn ambition into measurable progress. Excellencies, Bosnia and Herzegovina has already shown what is possible when we work together from retrofitting thousands of public buildings to empowering youth and women through digital innovation. With this new CPD, and with deeper engagement of the UN ecosystem, we are determined to go further— together. We are committed to translating this vision into tangible results for our citizens. Together, through stronger solidarity and partnership, we can supercharge the clean energy transition and deliver development that is just, green and inclusive, leaving no one beyond. Thank you.

15 seconds to go. As always, thank you, Ambassador. I think I saw the Permanent Representative of Türkiye. I'll give you the floor, followed by Belarus. Türkiye, please.

Mr. President, distinguished members of the Board, I would like to thank the Regional Director for presenting Turkey's Country Programme Document. We are proud to have a longstanding cooperation with the UNDP since the 1960s. It has evolved over the years into a strategic partnership at the national, regional, and global levels. With the Office of Resident Representative in Ankara, Regional Service Service of Regional Bureau, for Europe and CIS in Istanbul, as well as Istanbul Center for Private Sector in Development, UNDP maintains a significant presence in Türkiye, covering not only country and regional but also global-level operations. UNDP Istanbul International Center for Private Sector in Development plays an important role in strengthening the private sector to towards achieving the 2030 Agenda. As a Programme Country, Turkey has greatly benefited from the UNDP's consistent support. Turkey welcomes renewed partnership under the Country Programme Document for 2026-2030, which provides a robust framework to support the achievement of our national goals outlined in the 12th Development Plan and Vision 2053, in line with Agenda 22 and SDGs. We greatly appreciate that the document is a result of an inclusive and consultative process, with UNDP's close engagement with national stakeholders. The program embodies a collaborative approach that will advance Türkiye's development efforts while further strengthening our partnership with the UNDP. Looking ahead, Türkiye reaffirms its readiness to work closely with the UNDP in implementing and monitoring this ambitious program. We are confident that this cooperation will enhance our institutional capacities and generate meaningful contributions in line with our national development agenda. To this end, Türkiye welcomes adoption of the CPD by the Executive board today. In closing, Turkey expresses its sincere gratitude to the UNDP leadership and team.

Thank you.

Gracias a usted.

Thank you for your statement. We will now give the floor to Belarus, who will be followed by Serbia. Belarus, please.

Mr. President, distinguished colleagues. We're grateful for the presentation of the draft UNDP country program document for Belarus for the period 2026 to 2030. Belarus welcomes the constructive nature of our cooperation with UNDP, in particular that with the country office in Minsk, thanks to which, and despite the difficult financial situation, it has been possible to come up with a balanced document that reflects our national priorities. We expect that the country program will contribute in significant areas such as human development and well-being for all, sustainable and large-scale economic transformations, and a safe and clean environment. It will help expand access for vulnerable population groups to social services. It will help to improve the quality of services in the— quality of life in the regions and reduce inequalities between the urban and rural populations. It will also support the sustainable management of natural ecosystems and reduce the risk of disasters. The country program was developed in close cooperation with national institutions and is in line with the national strategy for sustainable and socioeconomic development in the Republic of Belarus for the period up to 2030. It is also in line with the draft national sustainable development strategy for the period up to 2040. A comprehensive approach in implementing the targets in the program will be ensured through maintaining a sustained partnership with financial institutions, regulatory bodies, and the private sector. We see significant potential in our cooperation with the UN Development Programme, and we call upon the Executive Board to approve the proposed country programme for the long-term period. Thank you very much.

Gracias a usted por Thank you for your statement. I now give the floor to Serbia, please.

The Republic of Serbia expresses gratitude to the UNFPA office in Belgrade for the cooperation to date and for its dedication in implementing joint programs and initiatives. Our partnership has contributed to achieving progress in several areas of key importance, which relates above all to improving the position of women and young people, promoting gender equality, improving healthcare, as well as strengthening institutional capacities. At the same time, we draw attention to the fact that challenges and room for further progress still exist, especially in areas that require long-term investments and continuous support. The UNFPA-EAS Cooperation Programme Document, which is today the subject of adoption, constitutes the basics for the continuation of the reliable partnership between UNFPA and Republic of Serbia, which is of great importance for overcoming the identified challenges. In that regard, we once again underline that Republic of Serbia is to the greatest extent in agreement with the text of the programme document. However, as we pointed out on several occasions during the process of harmonizing the text, we again note that in the Annex, which is an integral part of the programme document for Serbia and which relates to the Autonomous Province of Kosovo and Metohija, which is under the provisional mandate of of the United Nations in accordance with the UN Security Council Resolution 1244, neither the problem of Serbian community nor the difficult position of the Kosovo Serbs on the territory of Autonomous Province of Kosovo and Metohija is presented in an adequate manner. Planned UNFPA activities are not visible that would improve the position of members of the Serbian community in Kosovo and Metohija. Above all children, youth, women, and elderly persons who are exposed to daily and multiple discrimination. We appeal to UNFPA, when carrying out its activities in Kosovo and Metohija, to devote adequate attention to this issue. We believe that there is room and that UNFPA will make efforts to adequately consider and implement in the field that which is not contained in the Annex of the Programme Document for Serbia. The Republic of Serbia remains committed to constructive cooperation with your Agency, with the aim of jointly contributing to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, to the common contribution to the well-being of all citizens of the Republic of Serbia. Thank you.

Gracias.

Thank you. Last of all, I give the floor to the Russian Federation, and thank you for your patience.

Mr. President, the Russian Federation supports the adoption of all of the UNDP country program documents that were approved, supported by governments, and we note that it is primarily governments that bear primary responsibility for the development of their countries, and therefore they have the full right to independently determine the parameters of their cooperation with the UN development system. Russia, in turn, intends to make its contribution to the implementation of a number of UNDP country programs. Our country traditionally refrains from interfering in the preparation of country programs, but we would like to ask about a technical aspect of the preparation of these documents. We noted that for the 5 years of the implementation of the country program for Belarus, the population of which is more than 10 million people, from the UNDP regular budget they plan to allocate $2,565. Allow me to repeat that again— $2,565. Meanwhile, for example, the country program for North Macedonia, which has a population of around 2 million people, they plan to allocate from the regular budget $2,050,000. These financing disparities are baffling. And in that regard, we would like to ask you how this mathematics works and what formula UNDP uses to allocate regular budget funds to the support of country programs. Thank you.

Gracias.

Thank you. I give the floor to the Director for a brief response.

Thank you to all the member states for supporting the country programme documents. UNDP is proud to accompany you on the next leg of the development path. The comment from the Russian Federation on the percentage of core that relates to overall envelopes of our country program documents. I just want to point out that we also did that calculation and we can also follow up in writing. But in some of the countries, this core component is from 0— in most of the countries, 0 to 2%. While for Belarus, we commit 6% of our core budget for the country program. So Belarus is quite a bit more represented when it comes to UNDP's own resources, and it's not $2,500, it's $2.5 million. But we're very happy to unpack this further with the representative Representatives of Russian Federation.

Thank you.

Gracias.

Thank you. This concludes our review of the country program documents for Armenia, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, Republic of North Macedonia. And Serbia, including the results and resources framework for Kosovo as an addendum, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, in accordance with Executive Board Decision 2014/7. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve these UNDP country program documents. I see no objections. It is so decided.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the Regional Director to present the country program documents for China, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste. You have the floor.

Honorable Chair, distinguished members of the Executive Board, I wish to start by recognizing the distinguished delegates from China, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste and I'm honored to present their Country Programs for 2026 to 2029. These CPDs are being introduced at a pivotal moment for the Asia-Pacific, as the region contends with global economic uncertainties, escalating climate and disaster impacts, growing debt, and persistent inequalities. These overlapping challenges threaten human development progress, I deeply appreciate the regular policy dialogues with our ambassadors from the region that underscored most recently that our path forward in the Asia-Pacific depends on 4 major transformations: advancing the green economy and energy transitions, driving innovation, particularly in AI and digital, securing affordable climate and development finance, and ensuring the will to introduce and manage robust policy and governance reforms. These will be key for the reduction of poverty and well-being of all people in this region, of course understanding that the pace and scale of such transitions and adaptations will be different by country capability and context. This new generation of UNDP Country Programmes in front of you today are designed with our host countries and stakeholders to manage the intersecting drivers of development transformation amid ongoing turbulence. The priorities of each CPD are grounded in national development visions and plans, aligned with global commitments to the SDGs, and framed by UNDP's Strategic Plan and the UN Cooperation Frameworks for each country. These are in accordance with the existing agreements of the General Assembly and the Executive Board, so I thank you all for that clear guidance. The 3 country programmes are also the result of broad consultations and feedback received from our Board Members, the analysis of data and practice, Application of foresight for risk and what lies ahead, and findings from independent evaluations. These are never static markers, and we will closely monitor progress and adapt our approaches throughout implementation. National governments continue to invest resources and capabilities in UNDP's efforts, alongside our donor partners. Regarding our work specifically in China, I would like to offer the following clarifications to matters raised on Monday. According to World Bank data, which is used by UNDP in line with the Executive Board decision on this matter, the country continues to be classified as an upper-middle-income country and is not anticipated by the World Bank or IMF to attain Net Contributor Country status during the current CPD cycle. Second, UNDP and the Government of China remain firmly committed to ensure a transition plan as soon as China attains NCC status, as done with all NCCs. These are all well-regulated and clear directives from you, our Board. And we closely follow this across all countries to avoid any confusion or misinterpretation. Finally, the annual Track 1 resources assigned to every upper-middle-income country, and that includes China, is as defined by the Executive Board. There is no diversion of resources from other countries. So let me conclude by saying I wish development was a final destination. Unfortunately, it isn't, not for any country. While focus and forms evolve, human development and well-being remain a continuous work in progress. So thank you for your trust and support. The world needs this togetherness and solidarity, as does UNDP. And I look forward to your positive consideration of our 3 new CPDs, and thank you for approving the 2 extensions for Afghanistan and Myanmar.

Thank you.

Thank you, Ms. Widnaraja, for your presentation. The floor is now open for comments, and I will provide an opportunity to speak in line with the order that people asked to speak. So I first have Indonesia, followed by Timor-Leste, and then China. Indonesia, please.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. At the outset, I thank ASG Kani Wignaraja for presenting the draft country program for Indonesia for the year 2026-2030. We also convey our sincere appreciation to UNDP as a longstanding and constructive partner with Indonesia. For decades, UNDP has been a reliable partner for Indonesia's journey of transformation providing important policy and technical advice in advancing human development, promoting sustainability, and strengthening governance. As Indonesia advances further our development and commits to contribute in addressing global challenges, we see our partnership with UNDP not only growing stronger but becoming even more strategic. In this regard, Indonesia is pleased to extend our support for the approval of CPD of Indonesia for 2023. 26, 2030. Mr. President, Indonesia places a great importance on close consultation. A document shaped by relevant stakeholders will carry the ownership of all, and a strategy rooted in consultation will yield results that endure. Therefore, we highly value UNDP's engagement with line ministries, local governments, civil society, and the private sector in the process of formulating the CPD. Equally important, CPD must speak directly to national priorities. For that, we welcome that the CPD also aligns with Indonesia's national priorities as enshrined in the Aztacita vision of Golden Indonesia 2045, as well as our national and long-term development plans. Anchoring the CPD to Indonesia's development policy is critical not only to ensure coherence and scaling up impacts, but more importantly, national ownership. Mr. President, with only 5 more years remaining before 2030, partnership is no longer an option but necessity. Indonesia is looking forward to the effective implementation of the CPD, particularly in supporting a resilient Indonesia's economy and community. We are confident that through continued collaboration, Indonesia and UNDP can deliver transformative and impactful results for for our people and contribute meaningfully to global sustainable development. Thank you.

Thank you. Thank you for your statement. I give the floor to Timor-Leste, followed by China.

Mr. President, at the outset, I would like to thank you for giving me the floor. I also commend the UNDP for its comprehensive presentation of the Country Programme Document for Timor-Leste covering the period 2026-2030. Since Timor-Leste restored its independence in 2002, UNDP has played a vital role in supporting the country's democratic transition, fostering inclusive development, and helping to build foundational national institutions. Mr. President, we appreciate the UNDP and key government institutions for their comprehensive consultations, which involve a broad range of stakeholders, including municipal and village councils, academic institutions, civil society organizations, ministerial bodies, and youth networks. As a result, the CPD authentically captured the aspirations and concerns of Timor-Leste communities across the nation. The UNDP Country Programme Document is firmly anchored in the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, ensuring strategic coherence across all UN entities. It provides direct support to to Timor-Leste's National Strategic Development Plan and response to the country's designation as both a Least Developed Country and a Small Island Developing State. The CPD strategically aligns its interventions with the dual priorities, reducing vulnerability and promoting responsible resource management, reflecting Timor-Leste's enduring vision of inclusive prosperity, social harmony, and ecological sustainability. The CPD's 4 strategic pillars— social inclusion, economic development, climate resilience, and and democratic governance are closely aligned with both the Sustainable Development Goals and Timor-Leste's Strategic Development Plan. Core values such as gender equality and the commitment to leave no one behind are integrated throughout. Broad stakeholders engaged will strengthen impact and encourage innovation. This programme transcends its role as a lifeline, serving instead as a strategic catalyst for fostering economic resilience and advancing self-reliance. Particularly in the context of declining global development assistance. It is expected to drive economic diversification, reinforce domestic resource mobilization, and strengthen national capacities, thereby enabling Timor-Leste to forge an independent path toward sustainable development. We are confident that every investment will generate tangible and measurable outcomes. In conclusion, Timor-Leste reaffirms its support For the full implementation of this program document, driven by collective resolve, innovative, and dedication to improving the lives of all Timorese, the country's program depends on— the country's development depends on a strong partnership with international cooperation and UN agencies. This program document demonstrates Timor-Leste's unwavering commitment to a future that is inclusive, resilient, and self-sufficient. It functions as a strategic guide to turn Timor-Leste's national development vision into measurable progress. I thank you.

Gracias.

Thank you for your statement. China, please go ahead.

Zhu Xi.

Chair, China thanks ESG Karni for her introduction of China's New Country Programme, appreciates the work of UNDP especially the representative office in China, and thanks the executive board members for their participation and contributions. I also would like to thank the Chinese team for their efforts to this end. China is still facing prominent challenges of insufficient development and imbalance of development, and there are still gaps in the implementation of sustainable development goals in remote areas and vulnerable groups, so the experience of use of practice of UNDP are crucial. China UNDP country program focuses on poverty reduction, rural revitalization, green development, low carbon, and other practical needs that fully reflect the ownership and leadership of program countries and is in line with the UN framework for cooperation with China on sustainable development. The program development process has been open and transparent with full consultations in Beijing and New York to ensure broad participation As the largest developing country and the second-largest contributor to the U.N., China has long maintained its voluntary contributions to UNDP and has taken practical action to uphold the proposed U.N. development pillar. China is still a developing country. China will adhere to its position as a developing country for a long time. Thank you. And continue to cooperate with the UNDP through country programs in accordance with the relevant rules and decisions of the Executive Board and promote the in-depth relationship with the UNDP as well as promote the 2030 Agenda through trilateral cooperation. At a time when the world is in turmoil and there's a huge gap in financing for sustainable development, it is more urgent than ever to invigorate multilateralism and support development pillar of the U.N., for which the Executive Board and its members have an important responsibility. China calls on the Executive Board, under the leadership of the President, to place development at the center of its agenda and focus on the important principle of consensus to support adoption of a China Country Program and oppose political maneuvering and join together in a united voice in support of multilateralism on occasion of the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN. Thank you, Chair.

Thank you for your statement. This concludes our review of the country program documents for China, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste. In accordance with Executive Board Decision 2014/7. I have been informed that we should consider the lack of objection to these programs on an individual basis for each of these countries, so we will proceed as such. If I hear no objection, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve the UNDP country program documents for Timor-Leste. I see no objections. It is so decided. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve the UNDP Country Programme Document for Indonesia. I see no objections. It is so decided. If I hear no objections, I will take it That the executive board wishes to approve the UNDP country program document for China.

Ofresco la palabra.

I give the floor to the delegation of the United States, Mr.

President. The United States has an objection and wishes to request a vote on the decision to adopt the country program document for China. The United States will not support initiatives that do not align with U.S. priorities. As an Executive Board member, the United States takes its oversight responsibilities over agency operations and how they allocate their resources seriously. including for the UNDP Country Program Document for China for 2026 to 2030. China is the world's second-largest economy. A country that can fund its own space program and build aircraft carriers should fund its own development. Every UNDP dollar spent in China is one less for countries that truly depend on that funding. Letting China draw on UNDP resources risks subsidizing one country's geopolitical agenda under a multilateral umbrella. The UN was formed to support the vulnerable, not underwrite geopolitical ambitions of a major power. This is why we are requesting a vote and voting against this country program document. We know that China is watching every vote. And many countries cannot take a stance on this issue, fearing aggressive retaliation. We are not afraid to stand up, and we are not afraid to state that scarce resources should not be diverted to member states that can manage their own development priorities. Moving forward, we urge the Executive Board to ensure justifiable criteria, not political self-identification, serve as the basis for resource allocation by UNDP. The United States also strongly objects to the UN's promotion of any member state's foreign or development policy, including the Global Development Initiative. Mr. President, thank you for the opportunity to request a vote and deliver this explanation of vote.

Gracias.

Thank you for your statement. China has requested the floor, and I give them the floor.

Mr. President. The US asked for a vote for the CPT. China is disappointed and we firmly oppose the US baseless accusations. It's the US that is suppressing and smearing other countries. And China's CPT focuses on the needs of a green economy and uneven development. Fully reflects the important principle of CBD owned and led by the country. This is in line with the international norms and standards and it's solidly— has solid foundation. Any country's development needs to start from a trickling to a big flush. Therefore, the efforts of the Chinese development progress for years, we have— For decades we've been helped by the UNDP. We are grateful for their development and it took us a long time to be part of this development process. Leaving no one behind is not a slogan and it's an important commitment we've made. China is the 2nd largest economy in the world and the 2nd contributor to the assessed contribution. We have been making great contribution to the development and the peace. China has always been a developing country. Thank you. And we are connected, indissoluble with the Global South. China has provided selfless assistance to developing countries in times of difficulties. We've been doing this at the same time. In the future, we'll continue to do that. China will continue to abide by the rules of the Executive Board, and we will use the model provided by the EB and communicate with the world. China is an ocean that has always been here and will always be here, and today's world is in turmoil and all parties should provide development financing when it is most needed rather than like what the US has been doing, cutting off funding and rejecting the 2030 Agenda, sticking to cooperation and solidarity. We hope that we will continue to use the rules and regulations of the UNDP and We hope that the members will vote to be consistent with the rules and we will use the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the UN to voice our support for development and multilateralism and the world is looking at us.

Thank you.

Gracias a usted por—

Thank you for your statement. We have seen that a vote has been requested.

A vote has been requested on the UNDP country program document for China. On the procedures, delegations are reminded that in accordance with Rule 15, paragraph 2 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board of UNDP, UNAPA, UNOPS, in case of a vote, the Rules of Procedure for the Economic and Social Council shall apply. Delegations are also reminded that in accordance with Rule 62 Of the rules of procedure of the Economic and Social Council, los representantes podrán hacer breves.

Representatives will be able to make brief statements which consist solely. Of an explanation of their vote, either before the vote begins or after the voting is concluded. The representative of a member sponsoring a motion can only take the floor again if there is an amendment, which is not the case.

brief statements consisting solely of explanation of their votes before the voting has commenced or after the voting has been completed. Just to be clear, explanation of vote may be made only by members of the Executive Board. As such, does any member of the Executive Stay with me. Board wish to make a statement in explanation of vote before the vote? The Executive Board will now vote on the UNDP Country Program Document for China. It is recalled that in accordance with Rule 60 of the Rules of Procedure of the Council, the required majority for the adoption of decision is a simple majority Rule 60 of the Rules of Procedure of the Economic and Social Council.

Number 1, decisions of the Council shall be made by a majority of the members present and voting.

In accordance with Rule 63 of the Rules of Procedure of the Economic and Social Council, después de que el presidente haya—

After the president announces the beginning of the vote, No representative may interrupt it unless it's a matter of order to do with the way that the voting is being carried out.

He's been informed.

I have been informed by the Secretariat. That we have a quorum for making decisions. Is that the case, Madam Secretary?

Executive board members, I kindly request to indicate their votes.

The Executive Board is now voting on the UNDP Country Programme Document for China. Delegations voting in favor of the approval of the UNDP Country Programme Document for China, please indicate now.

Yes.

Please allow us to do this. Delegations voting against, please indicate now. Delegations abstaining, please indicate now. May I request all Executive Board members to confirm that their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the voting machine.

Thank you for sharing me the With me there on the screen. The result of the vote is as follows: in favor, 34 votes; against, 1; no abstentions. Accordingly, the Executive Board has approved the UNDP Country Programme Document for China It is so decided. Does any member of the Executive Board wish to make a statement in explanation of vote after the vote?

No.

I was fighting with the technology as we also were fighting with this screen, but you know, it's Murphy's Law. Anyway, con esto concluye el examen.

This concludes our review of Agenda Item 6, the UNDP Country Programme Documents and Other Documents for this session of the UNDP Executive Board. We will now move on to UNFPA. We'll just have a brief pause to change the podium around.

Mr.

President, if the DN wants to publish it?

Yes.

Colleagues, please take your seats.

Distinguished delegates, por favor, please take your seats. We are about to start a new session. Segment.

We shall now proceed to agenda item 10, UNFPA country programs and related matters. I welcome to the podium Ms. Lydia Sigomo, Regional Director of Eastern Southern Africa, Mr. Senan Hunton, Regional Director West and Central Africa, Ms. Florence Bauer, Regional Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and Mr. P.O. Smith, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific. I see the Executive Director on the podium, and I also welcome Ms. Biancata. 15 country programme documents are presented for review and approval. in accordance with Executive Board Decision 2014/7. For East and Southern Africa, Eswatini. For West and Central Africa, Côte d'Ivoire and Liberia. For Eastern Europe and Central Asia, Armenia, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, North Macedonia, Serbia, including the Results and Resources Framework for Kosovo as an addendum, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. For the Asia and Pacific region, China, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste. The Executive Board had also requested to approve the 4th 1-year extensions of the country programmes for Burkina Faso and Myanmar. To approve the 5th 1-year extension of the country programme for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. To approve the 5th 2-year extension of the country programme for Afghanistan. To approve the 2nd 1-year extension of the country programme for Yemen. And to take note of the first 1-year extensions of the country programmes for Lebanon, Libya, South Sudan, and Tunisia. I now give the floor— rather, before I give the floor to the regional directors to present their documents for the regions they deal with, I'd first like to address the extensions of the country programmes. If there are no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve the 4th 1-year extension of the programmes for Myanmar, the 5th 1-year extension of the programme for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, as well as the 5th 2-year extension to the programme for Afghanistan, as presented in document DPFP— FPA 2025/13. I see no objections. It is so decided. If there are no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve the second 1-year extension of the Country Programme for Yemen as contained in document DP/FPA/2025/13. I see no objections. It is so decided. Lastly, if I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to take note of the first 1-year extensions of the country programmes for Lebanon, Libya, and Tunisia approved by the Executive Board as presented in document DP/FPA/2025/13. I see no objections. It is so decided. I now give the floor to Ms. Lydia Zigomo, Regional Director for Eastern Southern Africa, to present the Country Programme Document for Eswatini. You have the floor, Madam Director.

Thank you, Mr. President. Beneath Eswatini's sapphire skies, where rolling hills rise with ancient pride and cradle dreams still in bloom, a new chapter begins. In this kingdom nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, the spirit of resilience dances with the promise of transformation. Mr. President, distinguished members of the board, the Kingdom of Eswatini, a lower-middle-income nation with a youthful demographic, and rich in culture, stands at a pivotal juncture. With over 70% of the population under the age of 35, the country embodies immense potential. Yet challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and health disparities persist, intensified by global megatrends like climate change, urbanization, and deepening inequalities, which continue to shape its strategic development trajectory and exacerbate existing health risks and strain infrastructure. With a $7.6 million funding envelope, the UNFPA Country Programme for Eswatini for 2026 to 2030 will directly address these challenges by strengthening the resilience of health systems and communities to ensure uninterrupted, equitable access to sexual and reproductive health services, particularly for vulnerable populations and young people, leveraging their potential for human capital growth and the demographic dividend. The Programme is firmly aligned with the Eswatini National Development Plan for 2023 to 2028, the 2030 Agenda, UNFPA's Strategic Plan, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2026 to 2030. This multi-layered alignment underscores a commitment to national ownership of development, paving the way for joint UN initiatives and innovative practices. The UNSDCF process, which informed the Programme's design, will continue to refine it through ongoing joint monitoring and evaluation, with strong government leadership. Central to this is the acceleration of the ICPD agenda, focusing on evidence-based and human rights-based policies and implementation. Partnerships and resource mobilization remain critical, with strategies including co-financing, development impact bonds, and engaging non-traditional donors to ensure sustainable funding for the ICPD agenda. Mr. President, I thank the Government of Eswatini for its sustained leadership In advancing progress towards achieving the 2030 Global Goals in Eswatini, I also extend my appreciation to our development partners and donors for their support. We look forward to continued collaboration. Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much for your statement. I'll now open the floor for comments or questions.

Mr. President, members of the Executive Board, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, on behalf of the Kingdom of Eswatini, I would like to express my appreciation for the longstanding partnership we have enjoyed with UNFPA spanning over 5 decades. This collaboration has significantly contributed to improving the quality of life for women, young people, and communities through the implementation of evidence-based country programs. The proposed 8-country program for 2026 to 2030 builds on this solid foundation between the Government of Eswatini and UNFPA. Its development was highly consultative and engaged a broad range of stakeholders, including young people, persons with disabilities, civil society organizations, development partners, and academia, as well as government ministries. We commend the achievements of the current program, particularly its impact on advancing the sexual and reproductive health and rights for women and girls. Notable achievements thus far include the prevention of unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, maternal and maternal deaths. UNFPA support data for development was strengthened through increased availability of disaggregated evidence-based data at the national level. This was achieved through several key initiatives, including the Eswatini Population and Housing Census 2017 monographs and the Demographic and Housing Survey of 2022. Additionally, data was made available through small area estimation and an extensive review of the national population policy, which facilitated the integration of population variables into national planning processes. Mr. President, we are pleased that the 8-country program is fully aligned with Eswatini's National Development Plan for 2023 to 2028 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2026 to 2030. The program will contribute to 7 SDGs while also advancing the voluntary national commitments of ICPT. Amongst other commitments. In conclusion, Mr. President, the Government of Eswatini recognizes the collective efforts required to achieve national development results and the SDGs. Hence, we look forward to the continued collaboration with UNFPA, UN agencies, development partners, private sector, and local stakeholders in the implementation of the program. My delegation therefore respectfully calls on the Executive board to approve the 8th country program. I thank you.

Thank you for your statement. This concludes our review of the country program document for Eswatini in accordance with Executive Board Decision 2014/7. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve These UNFPA country program documents. I see no objections. It is so decided. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to take note of the first 1-year extension of the country program for South Sudan, which has been approved by the Executive Director As presented in document DP/FPA/2025/13. I see no objections. It is so decided. We will now deal with West and Central Africa, Côte d'Ivoire and Liberia. I now give the floor to Mr. Hunton, Regional Director, to present the Country Programme Documents for Côte d'Ivoire and Liberia. Sir, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, distinguished members of the Executive Board, it is my honor to present for your consideration the 9th Country Programme Document for Côte d'Ivoire and the 6th Country Programme Document for Liberia covering the period of 2026-2030. These programs are far more than technical frameworks building on the achievement of the current country programs. They are statements of trust and shared ambition between UNFPA and the governments of Côte d'Ivoire and Liberia to continue achieving results. They are rooted in the 3 foundational pillars of the United Nations. development, peace and security, and human rights, and are fully aligned with the national priorities, the 2030 Agenda and SDGs, the African Union Agenda 2063, the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, and the forthcoming new UNFPA Strategic Plan. Together, the 2 programs represent a financial commitment of $111.4 million, of which $34.8 million in regular resources and $86.6 million to be mobilized through co-financing and other partnerships. Côte d'Ivoire has set an ambitious goal to reduce its maternal mortality ratio from 614 to 149 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. The country has achieved— has already made significant progress, achieving 37% reduction between 2011 and 2021. This success is attributable to major efforts, including, among others, the establishment of a national network of health facilities providing quality emergency obstetric and neonatal care now accessible to 9.4% of the population. Government efforts have also increased the use of modern contraception from 13% in 2011 to 18% in 2021, and reduced unmet need for family planning from 27% to 22%. To continue achieving results, the proposed program built on successes to strengthen equitable access to integrated, high-quality maternal and neonatal facilities, family planning, and prevention of gender-based violence and harmful practices. In Liberia, remarkable strides have been made to reduce the maternal mortality ratio from 1,072 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2013 to 742 in 2020. An increase in availability of essential life-saving reproductive health drugs and medical supplies within the public health system is among the factors of this significant improvement. The proposed program will now aim for a further 40% reduction by 2029, as set out in its national development plan. The modern contraceptive prevalence rate rose from 19% in 2013 to 24% in 2020. However, modern contraception use among adolescent girls remains low at 16.4%. Through this proposed program, UNFPA will build on lessons learned and best practices with a particular focus on adolescents and girls and young women. It will advance youth and girl human capital, peace and security, in line with Liberia's new Youth Peace and Security National Action Plan. The CPDs in both countries will support the intentional and deliberate investment in young people, and both countries having recently completed modern georeferenced population censuses, they are well positioned to track SDG progress and integrate population dynamics into planning and implementation. Mr. President, Your Excellencies, I wish to express my profound appreciation to the governments of Côte d'Ivoire and Liberia for their steadfast leadership and commitment to improving the lives of women, girls, and young people. I also extend my sincere gratitude to our donors and to the members of this Executive Board for your unwavering support to UNFPA country programs, enabling us to turn bold commitments into measurable results.

Thank you.

Gracias a usted, director región.

I thank the regional director, and I now open the floor for any comments if anyone would like to make any. Mr. Ambassador, you have the floor from Côte d'Ivoire.

Merci, Monsieur le Président.

Thank you, President, Excellencies, colleagues, ladies and gentlemen. At the outset, I wish to express our my sincere gratitude to the UNFPA Board for their constant support to the Government of Côte d'Ivoire in our efforts to ensure sustainable and inclusive development for our population. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, the cooperation program subject to review is a result of a broad and inclusive consultation process involving, on the one hand, government institutions and civil society, as well as, on the other hand, the private sector and development partnerships. It's entirely aligned with the national priorities of my country, defined in our National Development Plan 2026-2030, in line with the vision of the President of the Republic, His Excellency Mr. Alassane Ouattara, who has made human development and social inclusion a pillar. This 9th cooperation programme is also aligned with the cooperation framework of the UN for Sustainable Development 2026-2030. Program of Action of the Conference on Populations and Development, the Strategic UNFPA Plan, and the UNFPA Strategy in terms of family planning 2020 to 2030. This document therefore defines a strategic framework over 5 years with the vision of Côte d'Ivoire where the potential of women, girls, and youth, particularly the most vulnerable, is fully achieved through a favorable inclusive environment that ensures the exercise exercise of their rights and the protection of the lives of mothers. In order to provide the means to achieve this noble vision, the 9th Programme is part of a dynamic of consolidating the achievements made in the 8th Cooperation Programme, but also provides innovative and novel responses to challenges, including harnessing the demographic dividend thanks to strategic investments in education, health, and youth employment. Pursuing the reduction of inequalities between the sexes, strengthening prevention mechanisms and gender-based violence, and improving women empowerment, extending the scope of application of the partnership with regional authorities for young community leaders. These strategic priorities are designed to overcome the challenges of achieving inclusive development and shared development in Côte d'Ivoire thanks to an integrated approach focused on human rights, dignity, and equality. to achieve these priorities, a total amount of $75 million American dollars will be required over the next 5 years. This program is not only a strategic document, therefore, but what it is really is a common commitment from Côte d'Ivoire and the UNFPA to achieve results grounded in national ownership. For all of the above-mentioned reasons, my delegation requests the adoption of this program by the Executive Board and the Court of all partners to support its implementation. The government of Côte d'Ivoire, through my voice, reaffirms its full commitment to this partnership and its successful achievement and delivery. Thank you very much, Mr. President.

Thank you, says the President. Thank you for your statement. With this, this concludes our review of the country program documents for Côte d'Ivoire and Liberia in accordance with Executive Board Decision 2014/7. If I see no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve these UNFPA country program documents for the above-mentioned countries. I see no objections. It is so decided. If I hear no objections, I will also take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve the 4th extension extension of the country program for Burkina Faso as presented in document DP-FPA-2025-13. I see no objections. It is so decided. We'll move now to Ms. Florence Bauer, Regional Director of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, to present the country program documents in front of the board. You have the floor, madam.

I didn't Excellency, distinguished delegates, it is an honour to present the new Country Programmes for Eastern Europe and Central Asia covering Armenia, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, North Macedonia, Serbia, including the Addendum for Kosovo as per UN Security Council Resolution 1244, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. These programmes reflect our shared commitment and vision for the next 5 years in a region undergoing profound geopolitical uncertainty and development transition. The region is shaped by megatrends, particularly demographic shift. Countries in Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans are experiencing population aging, low fertility, and youth outmigration. In contrast, the countries in Central Asia experience relatively high fertility rates and population growth with large youth population, creating opportunities for reaping a demographic demographic and gender dividend. To respond to this context, all our programs are centered on the concept of demographic resilience, a forward-looking evidence and rights-based framework that enables societies to adapt to demographic change and invest in inclusive, people-centered development. Our programs were shaped by the specific context and ongoing regional megatrends, with a strategic focus on upstream extreme and lasting change. Our approach supports governments to harness high-quality data and demographic foresight to develop inclusive policies and long-term strategy. This includes support for active aging, family-friendly labor policies, and access to quality health and education systems for young people. Aligned with the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, we aim to deepen national ownership, support innovation, and promotes stronger UN collaboration. The ICPD agenda is a powerful accelerator for achieving the SDGs, and each program contributes to the realization of the 3 transformative results. Under maternal health, as most countries have managed to reduce mortality, attention now extends to other preventable causes of reproductive health-related deaths. Programs in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan, for example, will expand cervical cancer prevention. Family planning is reframed around enabling people to realize their fertility intention, acknowledging diverse trends from low fertility to concerns about infertility in the Armenia and Serbia country program, for example, reaching— researching the infertility rise in Turkey, addressing barriers to realizing fertility intentions in North Macedonia, or using digital tools in Belarus. Initiatives to prevent and respond to gender-based violence and harmful practices are integrated, for example, in the Uzbekistan program, with specific focus on engaging men, boys, and community leaders. The programs also include elements of humanitarian preparedness and response, resilience building, and peace development humanitarian nexus. Across the board, we prioritize lasting institutional change supporting national efforts towards long-term capacity strengthening. This builds on UNFPA's normative mandate, its strong in-country presence, technical expertise, and ability to bring together diverse stakeholders, which is our comparative advantage in the region for which we are appreciated by government and partners. All programs are derived from and fully aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks, and reflects the priorities of the forthcoming UNFPA Strategic Plan 2026-2029. They were developed with governments, UN country teams, and other partners, and closely respond to national priorities. UNFPA's work is deeply embedded with the UNDS reform process, demonstrated by strong interagency collaboration. Accelerating partnership and resource mobilization are central to implementation.

The program—

the total program value of this programme is €117 million, with €38 million in regular resources and €79 million to be mobilised through partnerships, including national co-financing, which we hope to see grow. On behalf of the region and the millions of women, girls, and young people we serve, I thank the Member States as well as our donors and partners for their continued trust, engagement, and support. We very much look forward to the approval by the Executive board of NEET's new programs, and we look forward to our continued close collaboration. I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you, Regional Director Bauer.

I will now give the floor to states for comments if they so request it, and I see on my list Türkiye, followed by Kazakhstan. Ambassador of Türkiye, you have the floor.

President, distinguished members of the Board, I would like to thank the Regional Director for presenting Türkiye's Country Programme Document. Taking this opportunity, I would also like to congratulate Ms. Diane Keita for her nomination by the Secretary-General for the position of Executive Director. We look forward to working with her in the coming period. UNFPA holds a distinguished place in Türkiye as one of the first UN agencies to establish operations in our country. Our partnership dates back to the '70s and has been consistently productive and mutually beneficial. In 1988, this collaboration was further strengthened and structured through successive 5-year country programs, providing a solid framework to guide our joint efforts. Over the years, Turkey and UNFPA have worked closely to advance community well-being, with particular emphasis on safeguarding the health rights and empowerment of women and youth. Turkey welcomes renewed partnership under the country program document for 26 to 20 From our perspective, the CPD's focus on expanding access to essential health services for women, empowering youth, supporting families, and protecting women and girls aligns closely with Türkiye's national development priorities. We particularly appreciate the program's commitment to tackling violence against women, reducing care burdens, and promoting gender equality in economic participation. The emphasis on integrating demographic considerations into the policy planning is also highly valued, especially in addressing challenges such as aging populations, declining fertility, and shifting family dynamics. Furthermore, we recognize the importance of holistic youth policies, particularly for girls and young In this context, Türkiye would welcome adoption of the CPD. We look forward to continuing this partnership with UNFPA in a manner that reflects our national priorities and specific needs while delivering tangible results for women and youth. Let me conclude by expressing our sincerest gratitude to UNFPA leadership and team. We are confident that Together, we will advance our cooperation with renewed commitment under the new country program. Thank you again.

Thank you for your statement, Kazakhstan, followed by Bosnian Herzegovina. Kazakhstan, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, Madam Acting Executive Director Keita, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Kazakhstan thanks Regional Director Bauer. For her presentation on the new Country Programme Document for 2026-2030 and extends its sincere appreciation to the entire UNFPA team for their diligent work in preparing this comprehensive document. We are pleased to confirm that this 6th Country Programme Document was developed in close collaboration with the Government of Kazakhstan, civil society partners, and other key stakeholders. This inclusive and consultative process has been vital in ensuring strong national ownership of the program's objectives. The program is fully aligned with our national development agenda, particularly the Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy, and directly supports our goals for modernizing healthcare, improving quality of life, and advancing gender equality. We also commend the program's strong alignment with the new UNFPA Strategic Plan, the principles of the ICPD Programme of Action, and the 2030 Agenda. We strongly support the program's key priorities, particularly improving health outcomes by reducing the rate of preventable maternal death and empowering our adolescents and young people with comprehensive life skills-based education. We also wish to highlight our support for the focus on tackling gender-based violence by transforming discriminatory social norms and scaling up the multi-sectoral response. This is fully aligned with our recent legislative reforms criminalizing domestic violence. Therefore, Kazakhstan endorses this country program document and reaffirms its steadfast partnership with UNFPA. With UNFPA's support, we have already made significant strides towards the 3 transformative results. We are confident that the successful implementation of the program will further accelerate our progress and deliver significant benefits for the people of Kazakhstan. Thank you.

Thank you. Bosnia and Herzegovina, please.

Mr. President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, it's an honor to address you on occasion of the presentation of the new UNFPA Country Programme Document for Bosnia and Herzegovina for 2026-2030. Allow me to express my deep appreciation to UNFPA FPA, for its continued support and for the collaborative spirit with which the program has been prepared. The challenges my country faces are well known: demographic shifts, low birth rates, and migration continue to shape our society. At the same time, we must respond to the needs of young people, strengthen access to health services, and ensure equality and dignity, especially for women and girls, in every community. This new Programme provides a strong framework to address exactly these priorities in a way that is both strategic and people-centered. We particularly welcome UNFPA's emphasis on universal access to sexual and reproductive health services, on reducing disparities for rural women, and on harnessing innovation and digital tools in healthcare. These efforts will directly improve the quality of life for our citizens and contribute to the social cohesion. Equally important is the Programme's commitment to ending gender-biased violence and ensuring protection and empowerment of survivors. Bosnia and Herzegovina attaches the highest importance to this work, as it is not only a human rights imperative but also fundamental to building a more just and inclusive society. Excellencies, young people are the heart of our future, regardless of where they live on the planet. The Programme's focus on youth participation education and empowerment reflects our shared belief that no sustainable transformation is possible without them. Bosnia and Herzegovina sees its youth, young generation, as a bridge between stability at home and progress toward our European Union path. Finally, we welcome UNFPA's approach of work across all levels of governance and with diverse patterns, from local organizations to academia and the private sector. This ensures not only broader reach, but also sustainability of results, aligned with our path towards the European Union and Agenda 2030 for sustainable development. Let me stress that Bosnia and Herzegovina values UNFPA not only as an implementing partner, but also as a trusted advisor. The coming years will require close cooperation in shaping forward-looking policies, new legislative frameworks, and partnerships that can ensure demographic resilience and gender equality for Generations to come. On behalf of my country, I reaffirm our strong support for this country program document and our readiness to work with UNFPA and all partners to tune these commitments in reality, ensuring that development is inclusive, equitable, and leaves no one behind.

Thank you.

Una sólida presentación en dos.

A very robust, a very solid presentation in 2 minutes 55 seconds, as we're used to. Thank you very much and congratulations, Minister. Armenia, followed by Turkmenistan, please.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished members of the Executive Board, we thank UNFPA's Regional Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, Ms. Florence Bauer, for the presentation of the UNFPA Country Programme Document for Armenia. Armenia highly values its result-oriented cooperation with UNFPA, which has been pivotal in advancing women's and youth empowerment, addressing gender-based violence, ensuring disability inclusion, and supporting vulnerable groups. Building upon the lessons learned from the previous cycle, the new CPD provides a comprehensive, forward-looking foundation for fostering human development. By prioritizing accessible, high-quality sexual and reproductive health services, preventing gender-based violence, promoting youth inclusion, and strengthening demographic resilience. The program seeks to safeguard the rights, health, and dignity of women and young people while enabling all members of society to reach their full potential. Importantly, the country program document aligns with and supports the implementation of the Demographic Strategy of Armenia 2024-2040, which was elaborated in close collaboration with the UNFPA Country Office in Armenia. We specifically welcome the CPD's emphasis on the vulnerable groups, in particular refugees and people with disabilities, with their rights and needs prioritized across all outputs, ensuring their inclusion across all interventions and program activities. The CPD for Armenia was developed through close, transparent collaboration between the UNFPA and the Government of Armenia, in line with national priorities, needs, and existing strategies. The process incorporated broad and inclusive consultations with line ministries, the national human rights institutions, civil society organizations, and development partners, underscoring the program's participatory and successful approach. It fully aligns with the priorities and objectives envisaged in the new UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework of Armenia for 2026-2030, ensuring a coherent and complementary UN Country Team support to Armenia's development agenda under the guidance and leadership of Resident Coordinator's Office. Mr. President, as an upcoming member of the Executive Board, Armenia attaches particular importance to UNFPA's work within the UN development system. We greatly value the organization's commitment to human-centered, pragmatic activities and stand ready to further strengthen effective cooperation aimed at achieving the objectives outlined in the Country Programme Document.

I thank you.

Thank you for your statement. Turkmenistan, followed by North Macedonia. Turkmenistan has the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. Distinguished members of the Executive Board, UNFPA leadership, dear colleagues. At the outset, I would like to thank Ms. Bauer for her presentation of the new Country Programme document for Turkmenistan. For over 30 years, Turkmenistan has been strengthening a strong partnership with UNFPA. Together, we have advanced the rights of women and girls, improved access to health services, and supporting the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. With UNFPA support, Turkmenistan has made tangible progress, including reducing preventable maternal death, successfully conducted the 2022 Population and Housing Census, carried out a nationwide survey on domestic violence, and advancing key strategies on reproductive, maternal, newborn, and adolescent health, gender equality, and youth policy. These efforts have been further strengthened through annual work plans jointly developed with relevant ministries and state institutions. Dear colleagues, the new Country Programme Document that was presented today is the result of broad consultations with the government, civil society and communities, ensuring the voices of women, men, youth and vulnerable groups are reflected. It sets out clear priorities: advancing unmet needs in family planning, combating gender-based violence and further reducing preventable maternal death. These goals align closely with Turkmenistan's National Programme for Social Economic Development. We fully support the new programme document and welcome its inclusive, forward-looking approach. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the UNFPA Regional Bureau and Country Office for their dedicated engagement and partnership.

Thank you.

Thank you very much. North Macedonia, followed by Uzbekistan, and lastly Belarus. North Macedonia, please.

Thank you, Mr. President. Excellencies, distinguished members of the Executive Board, It is with pleasure that I address you today on behalf of the government of my country to express our support for the 3rd Country Programme Document covering the period 2026-2030. Let me express our sincere gratitude to the Regional Director, Ms. Bauer, for presenting this important and vital document for our country. This CPD represents a critical roadmap for our collaborative efforts with UNFPA to achieve our shared vision that by 2030, my country is built into a demographically resilient and socially inclusive society that supports everyone's potential by closing the inequality gaps and empowering all individuals through the human capital lens. President, the government of my country and national partners have been actively engaged in the development of this CPD from the beginning. The process entailed consultations with a wide range of partners such as the government entities and bodies, civil society organizations, youth networks, women groups, academia, the private sector, the UN, and other development partners. The 2nd CPD yielded significant progress, such as integration of mobile gynecological services into the national health system and budget to reach those left behind, improving GBV response through strengthening multisectoral response and SOS helplines, using census data and the conducted 2023 population projections to inform national strategies; strengthening service provider capacities for sexual and reproductive health and gender-based violence of people with disabilities; adopting the National Youth Strategy 2023-2027. Finally, UNFPA is the government's key partner in shaping a demographically resilient society firmly rooted in the national priorities. Distinguished members of the Executive Board, the 3rd CPD builds upon the achievement of the previous CPD and will accelerate progress towards UNFPA's 3 transformative results aimed at addressing the demographic trends that shape the foundation for a demographically resilient society as our national priority. To build a truly resilient society, harnessing the existing population potential is critical. This means prioritizing those who are left behind, ensuring their that no group is overlooked. The envisaged lifecycle approach of the CPD entails focused integrated interventions tailored to the needs of the different population groups. President, it is a pleasure for me to report that the UNFPA 3rd CPD is guided by my country's National Development Strategy 2024-2044 and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030. 2030. This CPD incorporates lessons learned from the previous programs and reflects our strong commitment to the program of action of the International Conference on Population and Development and reaching the SDG. Our government is fully dedicated to sustain collaboration, the successful implementation.

Gracias a usted por Thank you for your statement. Uzbekistan, followed by Belarus, please.

Thank you, Mr. President, distinguished participants, and dear members of the Executive Board. First of all, I would like to thank Ms. Bauer for the insightful presentation. For over 3 decades, UNFPA has been a trusted partner in helping Uzbekistan anticipate and respond to demographic trends. Our collaboration has played a vital role in advancing the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy, accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, and strengthening national capacity to integrate population dynamics into inclusive and sustainable development policies. With UNFPA support over the past 5 years, Uzbekistan has achieved significant progress. For example, reduced maternal mortality to historic lows, modernized 230 perinatal centres and launched the country's first national cervical cancer screening programme, expanded access to family planning services through a fivefold increase in public funding, diversification of contraceptive methods and strengthening service delivery, particularly in rural and remote areas. Established comprehensive social protection services for vulnerable women across all regions, supported by stronger legislation, trained service providers, and community-based efforts to challenge harmful social norms. Built robust population data systems, preparing for our first census in 30 years, producing demographic projections through 2050, and developing Uzbekistan's first demographic resilience strategy. The new UNFPA Country Programme Document comes at exactly the right moment. Fully aligned with Uzbekistan's Strategy 2030 and national SDG targets, it offers strong potential to help the country leverage both demographic and gender dividends by advancing reproductive health, maternal health, and family planning; promoting women's empowerment; strengthening population data systems and evidence-based policymaking, reducing regional disparities by prioritizing underserved and remote areas. The 2026-2030 Country Programme Document will enable Uzbekistan to transform its demographic opportunity into lasting dividends by strengthening human capital, empowering women and youth, shifting social norms, and embedding data-driven decision-making across all sectors. We value our longstanding partnership with UNFPA and strongly support the adoption of this new CPD. We look forward to continuing our collaboration to ensure that every woman, every young person, and every community can contribute to and fully benefit from Uzbekistan's sustainable development.

Thank you.

Gracias a usted.

Finalmente, thank you. And last of all, Belarus.

Mr. President, distinguished colleagues, Belarus appreciates the UNFPA Country Programme for the period 2026 to 2030 and would like to thank the UNFPA office in Belarus for its constructive cooperation in the preparation of this document. The programme aims to support the implementation of our national demographic priorities that are outlined in the draft National Sustainable Development strategy for the period up to 2040, in particular the stabilization of the population and improving the population's health indicators. The program is in line with our national healthcare priorities. It will help increase the motivation of people of various different ages to lead a healthier way of life, to increase life expectancy for men and women, and it will also help expand educational programs for young people. The programme also aims to support the National Plan of Action on Ensuring Gender Equality, which includes, among other things, providing equal opportunities for men and women to combine their professional development with their family obligations and childcare. The programme focuses on the use of digital technologies and innovation in various different areas, which shows a farsighted approach and is in line with Belarus's efforts to introduce advanced information technologies in every area of society. A comprehensive approach in implementing the targets in the program will be ensured through a sustainable partnership with state institutions, the private sector, and civil society. Belarus sees the UNFPA country program as a significant instrument and it sees UNFPA as an important partner in socioeconomic development. And we look forward to a further strengthening of our cooperation. Thank you very much.

Thank you for your statement. This concludes our review of the country program documents for Armenia, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, North Macedonia, Serbia, including the results and resources framework for Kosovo as an addendum, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, in accordance with Executive Board decision 2014/7. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve these UNFPA country program documents for the aforementioned countries. I see no objections. It is so decided. Mr. Pius Smith, you have the floor to present the country program documents for China, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste. Mr. Smith.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished members of the Executive Board, I'm pleased to present 3 country programs for China, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste. Prepared under the principle of national ownership, the CPDs are fully aligned with national development plans UNFPA's Strategic Plan, and the UN Cooperation Frameworks. They articulate a shared vision to advance UNFPA's 3 transformative results alongside the broader ICPT agenda and SDGs. Our CPDs are underpinned by UNFPA's unwavering commitment to human rights. They are designed to ensure synergies with government partners and the UN family, to avoid duplication and promote efficiency agility, and responsiveness, all while strengthening integration in line with UNAID. The Asia-Pacific region faces stark contrasts, from aging populations to large youth cohorts, with uneven development hindered by climate change, conflict, and resistance to women's rights. The new CPDs respond to these challenges while taking into account each country's specific context enabling an acceleration of progress. Let me present a few highlights from each CPD, starting with China. China's development is crucial for global SDGs due to its large population. Despite impressive economic growth and social progress, inequalities persist, including in SRH and gender equality, while the country also faces challenges from aging and low fertility. The CPD focuses on upstream advocacy policy engagement, and technical support in these areas. It aims to strengthen responses to low fertility, address the needs of older persons, and enhance population data for national planning. The CPD also seeks to improve access to quality SRH services, empower youth with life skills, and support policies against GBV and gender-biased sex selection. It promotes interagency collaboration partnerships, and South-South cooperation to achieve the SDGs. Recognizing China's high-income transition, the CPD also includes a gradual exit strategy for future typology revisions. Turning to Indonesia, Indonesia has made significant progress achieving 62% of the SDG targets by 2022. To drive further acceleration, the CPD prioritizes vulnerable populations, and addresses regional disparities. To address persistent maternal mortality, the CPD focuses on improving the quality of midwifery, emergency obstetric and newborn care, and rights-based family planning services. It also aims to address negative social norms and harmful practices through informed policymaking, community-level engagement, and comprehensive sexuality education. Additionally, it seeks to strengthen national capacity in planning, partnership coordination, and accountability to ensure access to SRH services and those addressing violence against women and girls. Indonesia is currently benefiting from a demographic window of opportunity, yet must also begin addressing aging and declining fertility. For this reason, the CPD focuses on enhancing the capacity to produce and utilize population data for evidence-based policymaking. The CPD will be implemented through joint UN programming, while also leveraging partnerships and innovative financing, including through the South-South and Triangular Cooperation Platform, and with ASEAN. And let me turn now to Timor-Leste. Timor-Leste has a youthful demographic and a progressive policy adoption, which offers a promising outlook. However, the country grapples with poverty, persistent maternal mortality, unmet family planning needs, and pervasive GBV compounded by climate vulnerability. In response, our CPD focuses on strengthening health systems for universal access to SRHR and GBV services, promoting gender equality through addressing discriminatory norms, empowering youth with comprehensive sexuality education, building climate resilience by integrating SRHR and GBV into preparedness plans, and fostering inclusive governance through improved data systems. The program contributes to UNDS reform by advancing coordinated and integrated programming, while also leveraging data systems for improved socioeconomic and demographic evidence. Excellencies, I thank the 3 governments for their partnership and leadership, and look forward to working together on implementing the new CPDs. I also thank our donors for their support, and I thank the Executive Board in advance further guidance. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank Regional Director Smith for his presentation, and I now give the floor to Indonesia.

You have the floor.

Mr. President, we thank UNFPA Regional Director Smith for presenting the draft country program for Indonesia 2026-2030, and we also Indonesia. Indonesia also wishes to express our sincere appreciation to UNFPA for its continued partnership with Indonesia. From reproductive health, family planning, to addressing violence against women, we value the critical role of UNFPA in addressing issues that are critically important to development of every member state, emphasizing the need to align with national context and national priorities. Indonesia does believe that close consultation between UNFPA and the government, as well as relevant stakeholders, are critical to ensure national support and ownership. In this regard, we appreciate the work of UNFPA for their consistent engagement with relevant ministries and relevant stakeholders, which has assured that the document is not only relevant but also applicable for Indonesia. Indonesia is pleased to note that the CPD is well aligned with the national priorities, with the focus, among others, improving institutional capacity, as well as strengthening population data analysis. Therefore, we extend our support for the endorsement of the UNFPA CPD for Indonesia. Mr. President, following its expected approval, Indonesia looks forward to working closely with UNFPA in implementing this CPD to ensure it delivers concrete and impactful results and contributes to achievement of Indonesia's national priorities. Furthermore, this CPD also lays a solid foundation for extending our partnership with UNFPA to contribute in advancing South-South and triangular cooperation. Since the establishment of the Indonesian Aid in 2019, Indonesia has managed an international endowment fund to support knowledge exchange in family planning, reproductive health, violence against women and girls, and population and development, with no less than 46 countries in Asia Pacific and Africa. In conclusion, Mr. President, Indonesia stands ready to further strengthen its cooperation with UNFPA to deliver results at home and to share lessons with other countries in the Global South. Thank you.

Gracias a usted. A continuación, thank you.

Next, we have Timor-Leste, followed by China.

Mr. President, at the outset, I wish to congratulate the United Nations Population Fund For this comprehensive presentation of the Country Programme Document for Timor-Leste for the period 2026-2030. We commend the NFPA for conducting the comprehensive consultation, which involved a wide range of stakeholders. As a result, the CPD is fully aligned with both SDGs and Timor-Leste Strategic Development Plan for 2011-2030. Since the restoration of independence in 2002, Timor-Leste has traveled a remarkable path. With a population of just 1.34 million, our country has transformed from a fragile post-conflict state into a peaceful democracy. As a least developed country and a Small Island Developing State, our journey has significantly benefited from the support of our partners. Our national priorities are clear: investment in human capital, economic diversification, infrastructure, and governance. These are not abstract goals, but practical imperatives that respond to the realities of our people, half of whom are under 25 years old. We have achieved tangible progress in health, such as full HPV vaccination coverage for more than 56,000 girls and nationwide deworming for over 270,000 children in 2024. These measures contribute to reducing child mortality and improving public health. Mr. President, the UNFPA CPD for 2026-2030 Together with the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, provides a roadmap to accelerate progress towards Sustainable Development Goals. Its 2 pathways, strengthening institutions and civic participation and promoting green inclusive economic growth, resonate fully with our national priorities. Therefore, Timor-Leste welcomes and supports this programme document. We see it not as external assistance but as a genuine partnership that respects national ownership while leveraging their expertise and support the international community. The Morlaesche path has been difficult. However, with the continued support of NFPA and our partners, we are confident that we can turn today's vulnerability into tomorrow's opportunity, ensuring that the promise of the 2030 Agenda is fulfilled for all our people. I thank you.

Thank you. China has the floor, please.

President, China thanks the Regional Director-Smith for the Asia-Pacific region for introducing China's country program documents. We appreciate the work of UNFPA, and we also thank the contribution and participation of the Executive Board members. We also like to thank the Chinese team for their efforts. And China's CPD new cycle country program together with the UNFPA is in line with its own development plan and aims to improve the sexual and reproductive health and pay attention to the needs of vulnerable groups in response to the new trends and challenges of the democratic dynamics. China's country program fully reflects the leadership and ownership of the country programs consistent with the core values of human rights. And developments of the United Nations. China has consistently advocated that Executive Board should be fast, fact-based, and strictly follow the rules, and consistently put development in the core of the agenda, focus on better implementing their functions, and service the member states' priority areas. China calls on the Executive Board to stick to the tradition of consensus and respect the wide consensus of the majority of the member states. As a developing country with 1.4 billion people, China is qualified to have its own country program. China values the expertise and good practices of the UNFPA and will maintain communication with the UNFPA on the exit strategy and handle the matter accordingly. As a member of the Global South, China has long kept providing funds to the UNFPA in the form of a voluntary contribution at the request of the developing countries. Carrying out tripartite cooperation and received extensive acknowledgement and in implementing— facilitating implementation of ACPD action and received wide acknowledgement. China calls on the executive members to adopt the China's Country Program jointly, sending a strong signal to the international community to support multilateralism and UN's development pillar.

Thank you. Thank you for your statements, and I thank the regional directors here with us this morning for their presentations. With this, we conclude our review of the country program documents for China, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste in accordance with Executive Board Decision 2014-7. I have been informed that we will review the adoption of the programs for these countries separately. We will proceed in this manner. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve the document on the UNFPA program for Indonesia. I see no objections. It is so decided. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve the document on the UNFPA country programs for Timor-Leste. I see no objections. It is so decided. If I hear no objections, I will take it that the Executive Board wishes to approve the UNFPA Country Program Document for China. The delegation of the United States has requested the floor. The United States, you have the floor.

Mr. President, the United States has an objection. We would like to thank the Executive Board for this opportunity to speak to the United States' concerns regarding the Country Program Document for China and to request a vote on the decision to approve this CPD. The United States will not support initiatives that do not align with U.S. priorities. As an executive board member, the United States takes its oversight responsibility over agency operations and how they allocate their resources seriously, including for the UNFPA country program document for China for 2026 to 2030. China's coercive family planning policies are antithetical to America's promotion of individual liberty. The United States remains prohibited from from funding any organization that supports or participates in the management of a program of coercive abortion or involuntary sterilization. The United States stands for the rights of the individual, rights that the Chinese government utterly disregards. The UNFPA's previous legitimization of this effort and continued partnership with a Chinese government entity that implements abhorrent population control policies, which include coercive elements, is unacceptable. By letting China draw on UNFPA resources, we risk subsidizing China's own geopolitical agenda under a multilateral umbrella. The UN was formed to support the vulnerable, not underwrite the geopolitical ambitions of a major power. We regret this item is even up for review. Which is why we will be voting against this country program document. For decades, the United States has called on UNFPA to end its partnership with the Chinese government agency responsible for China's population control. Millions of families have suffered under China's destructive approach to population. Generations of women continue to suffer the harm of this excruciating legacy, which include— included barbaric forced abortions and involuntary sterilization. Yet again, we urge the Executive Board to end UNFPA's complicity. The United States also strongly objects to the UN's promotion of any member state's individual development policy, including the Global Development Initiative. Mr. President, thank you for the opportunity to request a vote and deliver this explanation of vote.

I thank the United States for your statement. China has requested the floor, and I give them the floor. China, you have the floor, please.

China expresses deep concerns, regret, and objection to the U.S. proposal to vote on this China's country program. China's program has been empowering women, children, and vulnerable group, and it is in line with the core values of the U.N. in human rights and development. In fact, the U.S. itself suffers from systematic widespread violation of rights of women and children. The U.S. government brutally denies American women's access to reproductive health care, and the U.S. Congress has so far refused to adopt the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and a lot of states still allow child marriage. The U.S. is in no position to lecture others about human rights or point fingers at others. China has always include its own development into the development of the world, and China has long carried out cooperation with developing countries and provides support to global development causes and has won wide recognition from Global South countries. China has never curbed or suppressed other countries' development, has always been open and accommodating in sharing experiences, practical experiences, and sharing development opportunities with others. China is a natural member of the Global South family and this position will never change. China calls on the members of the Executive Board to support adoption of the China CPD and send a strong signal together of development as a priority and reject politicization and support multilateralism under the development pillar of the UN with practical actions. Thank you, Chair.

Thank you for your statement.

A recorded vote has been requested on the UNFPA Country Program Document for China. We will start the voting. Voting procedure. Delegations are reminded that in accordance with Rule 15, paragraph 2 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board of UNDP, UNFPA, UNOPS, in the case of vote, the Rules of Procedure for the Economic and Social Council shall apply. Delegations are also reminded That in accordance with Rule 62 of the Rules of Procedure of the Economic and Social Council, los representantes podrán hacer—

Representatives may make brief statements that consist only of an explanation of their votes, either before the voting begins or Explanation of votes may be made by members of the Executive Board.

As such, as— does any member of the Executive Board wish to make a statement in an explanation of vote before The vote. The Executive Board will now vote on the UNFPA Country Program Document for China. It is recalled that in accordance with Rule 60 of the Rules of Procedure for the Council, the required majority For the adoption of decisions, it's a simple majority of members present and voting. Artículo 60 del Consejo.

Article 60 of the ECOSOC Rules of Procedure says that decisions of the Council shall be made by a majority of the members present and voting.

With Rule 63 Of the rules of procedure of the Economic and Social Council.

After the president has announced the commencement of voting, no representative may interrupt the voting except on a point of order in connection with the actual process of voting.

Executive members are kindly requested to indicate their votes. Secretaria, por favor, tiene usted—

Secretariat, please, you have the floor.

The Executive Board is now voting on the UNFPA Country Program Document for UNFPA for China. Delegations voting in favor of the approval of the Delegations voting for the UNFPA Country Program Document for China, please indicate now. Delegations voting against, please indicate now. Delegations abstaining, please indicate now. May I request all Executive Board members to confirm that their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the voting.

The voting has been locked.

What's the result?

In favor, 32. 32.

The result of the vote is as follows: 32 a favor.

In favor, 32. Against, 1, and 0 abstentions.

The Executive Board has approved the UNFPA Country Program Document for China. It is so decided. Does any member of the Executive Board wish to make a statement in explanation of vote after the vote?

This concludes our review of agenda item 10. And brings us to the end of this UNFPA segment. This meeting is— this session is concluded. Given that we still have some time left, I think we can continue with our last agenda item for this 2nd regular meeting. Of the board, we're going to request some flexibility from our interpreters, but I think we still have time left, so we will move on to organizational matters. We will now deal with the tentative program of work for the first session of 2026. I would invite Ms. Jafari Once we've rearranged the podium to give us an explanation on the provisional program of work for the first ordinary session. Ms. Jafari, you have the floor.

Good afternoon, distinguished Members of the Executive Board and observer delegations, as we conclude the 2nd Regular Session, I will briefly preview the 1st Regular Session of the Executive Board scheduled for 2nd to 5th February 2026. The tentative work plan for the 1st Regular Session has been circulated. This tentative work plan is aligned with the draft 2026 Annual Work Plan And has been considered by the Bureau. As customary, it remains subject to adjustment as required. The session will open on Monday, 2nd February, with organizational matters including adoption of the work plan for the session, report of the 2nd Regular Session 2025, and 2026 Annual Work Plan of the Executive Board. The joint segment will follow with items on recommendations of the Board of Auditors and risk management. In the afternoon, the joint segment continues with organizational culture, addressing racism and racial discrimination, and an update on the assessment of the Board's governance and oversight functions. On Tuesday, 3rd February, the UNOPS segment will begin with a statement by the Executive Director followed by discussions on the process innovation and implementation of the digitalization program. In the afternoon, the UNFPA and UNDP segments begin, including UNFPA evaluation, UNDP evaluation, and the Human Development Report. On Wednesday, 4th February, the UNDP segment continues with an interactive dialogue with the Administrator. In the afternoon, the UNDP The UNDP segment continues with the strategic frameworks for the United Nations Volunteers, UNV, the United Nations Capital Development Fund, UNCDF, and the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation, UNOSSC. On Thursday, 5th February, the UNFPA segment continues with a statement by the Executive Director. In the afternoon, the UNDP and UNFPA segments conclude with discussions their country programs and related matters, followed by the joint segment item on field visits. The session is expected to conclude with the adoption of the decisions for the first regular session and the tentative work plan for the annual session 2026. I will briefly mention the draft 2026 annual work plan of the Board submitted as part of the session documentation. It reflects outstanding agenda items, requested reports for 2026, and issues that have emerged during this year. This is also similar to the tentative work plan of the first regular session, a work in progress, and the Bureau and the Secretariat will continue to review the reporting requirements arising from the decisions adopted at this session and incorporate them as needed. Delegations may submit comments to the Bureau for its consideration. The annual work plan will be formally adopted at the first regular session 2026, and as usual, may be adjusted over the course of the year. I should also mention that the colleagues have highlighted that they would like a briefing on UNAT included as part of the first regular session, and we will make sure that that is included as well. There will be further adjustments amendments that I, as I mentioned, we will continue to make based on the decisions adopted, and we will make sure that those are adjusted in the tentative work plan of the first regular session as well as the 2026 annual work plan. Mr. President, it has been a true pleasure working closely with you, the Bureau, and all members and observers throughout this productive session.

Thank you.

Thank you, Ms. Jafari. I see that Switzerland has requested the floor, followed by Japan. Switzerland, please.

Mr. President, Excellencies, now that the decision on the UNDP Structured Funding Dialogue has been adopted, noting that the UNCDF Annual Review of Financial Status formed part of that decision, we wish to deliver a joint statement pertaining particularly to that review. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, France, Australia, Türkiye, and my own country, Switzerland. We have taken note of the Annual Review of the Financial Situation 2024 of UNCDF and have the following comments. We acknowledge that the UNCDF's financial situation remains strained, but are relieved to see that the overall financial situation has not deteriorated further as one might have feared. We commend the management for their efforts to keep the ship financially afloat. After years of declining core contributions, we are pleased to note that the trend has been halted, albeit at a very low level. We are aware that the financial context is difficult. We therefore encourage the management all the more to invest in appropriate measures to come as close as possible to achieving the annual target of $25 million for co-contribution as set out in the strategy. We are also somewhat surprised to note that outstanding loans and guarantees are rather low, given that this is, or should be, one of UNCDF's core competencies. We hope that the recent restructuring, which included aligning internal processes with those of UNDP will not hinder efficient implementation of this unique part of UNCDF's mandate. With this in mind, we look forward to the ongoing process of renewing the UNCDF Strategic Framework for the period 2026-2029. We hope to engage even closer with UNCDF on its final design in the coming months. We would like to express our expectation that the new strategy will include a solid section on resource mobilization. In conclusion, we would like to emphasize that we greatly appreciate the work of UNCDF, which as a catalytic financing facility of the United Nations for the least developed countries fills a very important niche. The innovative thinking and approaches such as those of UNCDF are exactly what we need to close the financing gap and achieving the SDGs, something that was also reaffirmed at the recent Financing for Development 4 conference in Sevilla. Thank you for your attention.

Thank you. Japan has the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. Japan warmly welcomes the adoption of today's decisions, and please allow us to make a couple of points about those decisions. Firstly, we recognize that the next strategic plans of UNDP and UNFPA are of critical importance, updating the work of both organizations in response to evolving global needs and challenges. Japan welcomes the new UNDP Strategic Plan as a timely and inclusive roadmap, building on its past lessons and evaluations. Its focuses on private sector collaboration, digital and AI innovation, sustainable finance, and human security well reflects the priorities of our era. We also attach great importance to UNDP's role as a bridge across humanitarian, development, and peace efforts, an approach that strengthens its position as an integrator and enables the delivery of solutions that are both holistic and practical. With regard to the UNFPA Strategic Plan, we highly commend the inclusion of demographic change as one of the outcomes reflecting the pressing global trend of population aging, while remaining firmly sticking to the principles of ICPD Programme of Action. At the same time, the importance of the 3 existing pillars remains unchanged. Furthermore, humanitarian assistance provided by UNFPA should never be diminished. We expect that such activities remain at the very core of UNFPA's work. This Executive Board has also approved a number of country programme documents. Here we would like to point out that allocation of assistance should duly take into account the actual capacities and needs of countries concerned in order to more accurately reflect the reality on the ground and to better ensure the efficient use of core resources UNDP and UNFPA, particularly in light of current liquidity challenges facing the UN. With regard to extension of UNFPA's CPD, in case of repeated extension of its CPD, it is essential that based on the changes of local situation, that project details should be updated and appropriate reporting on the project implementation should be submitted. In addition, Japan underscores the importance of ensuring transparency through the presence of international staff on the ground as the local situation changes. Finally, Japan welcomes the intended appointment of Ms. Keita for next Executive Director of UNFPA and looks forward to her strong leadership and contributions in the years ahead. I thank you.

Gracias a usted por su declaración.

Thank you for your statement. And since I can't see any other requests for the floor, I take it that the Board agrees with the provisional annual work plan prepared for the first regular session of 2026, following the comments made by Ms. Jafari on an informative session on the UN80 initiative. It is so decided.

I was asking if we can close finally this session and I received her green light, so we will proceed with this.

Very briefly, colleagues, I think we've heard some very important statements from all delegations, and my conclusion is Well, it's something that's quite striking to me, and that it's only through joint and robust action from those that believe in multilateralism that we'll be able to overcome the crises that are eroding development progress and weakening trust in the multilateral system. The fact is that millions of people continue to slip into poverty and face hunger and exclusion. And the development gaps are widening. This is something that the UN cannot deal with alone because of the economic, financial, and geopolitical realities. That is the case, but it is also the case that we have a shared responsibility here to not shy away from these circumstances and be taken away by inertia and inaction and inefficiency and ineffectiveness. So I believe that the answer does not lie in dealing with things inside silos. It requires systemic approaches with palpable, tangible results. In more national ownership and less conditions attached by donors when it comes to investing in development. As President of the Executive Board of UNDP, UNFPA, and UNOPS, I see the value in these agencies and in the implementation of their mandates and in aligning with what has been mandated in the— for QCPR, for example. Above and beyond technocratic approaches and cosmetic changes, we need to support a structural reform of the development system that was launched in 2018. I don't want to dwell on this too much. I just want For now, to recognize the work and collaboration of the Bureau over the 3 sessions that we've held this year. I want to recognize that it's been sensational, thanks to the experience of the ambassadors who have supported us in making progress in the work of the Board. My most heartfelt thanks goes to the Vice Presidents, I wish to underscore the adoption of decisions, which has demonstrated excellent collaboration, and I would be remiss not to mention that the co-facilitators have engaged in absolutely extraordinary work. But the same goes for all of the delegations who have participated in this exercise of true diplomacy. I don't want to exclude any. Delegation at all, actually. Each and every delegation have made an effort, but I think that we can do even more, and I think that the time, the era demands this. I would be remiss not to mention Lorna Furuta from Romania, Frans van Dennis Fratten of the Netherlands, Kubachev Davissa of Ethiopia, my friend, Over there, Mr. Kurkanov from Tajikistan, and Dennis Nede of Belgium, Tamuri Pipia of Georgia, Jimmy Kadje from Nigeria, Andres Osorio from Colombia, Heidi Labidi from Tunisia, Elizabeth Mendez of Ecuador. They're the co-facilitators that helped us to adopt successful decisions. The Board since 1994 has adopted around 500 decisions, and I believe that something— that the fact that these decisions have been able to be adopted by consensus is something that's been very decisive And I really hope that we'll be able to resume this effort of consensus, that we'll be able to come back to that. And I say this with the utmost respect because I do understand the political situations. However, I do want to also put on record that the rules of— in the rules of this board, we have express mention, not just as a practice, but an express mention of true efforts that should be made to adopt decisions by consensus. And in my personal view, these best efforts— because they're not expressly mentioned in other rules— but these efforts have a significant amount of strength, both legal and political. They have that impact, and I think that we need to continue to make an effort. And I finally recognize the real work of all delegations without exclusion to try and adopt decisions that, that help our peoples. I wish to conclude by simply recognizing the interpreters, the people that we don't, we don't all know them, but they were kind enough to give us a few minutes of flexibility, as well as the conference staff, our friends that are supporting us with the screens up here for the votes, and of course the secretariats, all of the teams that are here, and of course I would be remiss to not mention also the heads of the different agencies and their teams. I'd like to inform them that today I am signing a letter to be sent to the Secretary-General, Mr. Guterres, informing him that the Board agrees with the appointment of the new executive director of UNFPA, Ms. Diane Cater. I finished— I'll finish this meeting and then sign the letter. I don't know why I haven't done it yet, because we— it was under silence procedure. So for me, it's been a real privilege to be the person to send this letter on behalf of the whole of the board, and I dare to say, on behalf of the whole of the membership of the United Nations. So I'm naturally an optimist, and I think that's, that's a good thing. So finally, I officially declare the 2nd Regular Session of 2025 closed. Thank you so much for your collaboration. Thank you.