(2nd informal meeting) Preparatory Committee for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, Third Session

Good morning everybody. I am planning to start the meeting. It is past 10 o'clock. So it's my pleasure to welcome you all to this second informal meeting to continue the first reading of the zero draft of the outcome document for the FFD4 conference. Now, we have a list of speakers left over from yesterday. And before giving the floor to the first speaker, I kindly remind delegations to observe the time limits of five minutes for delegations speaking on behalf of groups, and three minutes for states speaking in their national capacity, as well as other speakers. We do reserve the right to adjust time limits as necessary in case there is a long list of speakers. In order to keep track of time, a countdown clock will be visible on the screen to alert speakers when it's time to conclude their statements. And as necessary, the microphone will be automatically deactivated when the time limit has been reached. Speakers on behalf of groups should inform the Secretariat in order to be given precedence in the order of speakers. And we will now continue the reading of the section on realizing sustainable development. As mentioned in our announcement circulated yesterday, we will later invite you to share your comments on the paragraphs of chapter 2A and 2B in a more consolidated manner following in sections paragraphs 28, 29 and paragraphs 30, 32 and then we go to paragraphs 33, 34 and 35, 36. But now we will continue from yesterday and I invite comments on the section called Realizing Sustainable Development, which is paragraph 12 to 27. We have the text on the screen. I have a speakers list and I will first give the floor to the representative of Kiribati on behalf of the LDCs to be followed by the representative of Japan. Kiribati, you have the floor.

Thank you, co-facilitators. I would like to begin by acknowledging the commendable leadership and diligent efforts of the co-facilitators in crafting the text now before us. We also fully support the position shared by G77 and China regarding the specific provisions on global financing development, including paragraphs 12 to 27. On behalf of the least developed countries, I would like to highlight several key points. We believe provisions in paragraph 14 on social protection commitment should be strengthened with universal coverage targets in LDCs by 2030, supported by adequate financing. Currently, only about 14% of the population in LDCs are covered by any form of social protection. Regarding paragraph 21, while it acknowledges infrastructure gaps, LDCs need enhanced supports for infrastructure finance, especially from multilateral development banks, including through scaled up SDR allocations channel to LDC infrastructure projects. Recognition of climate impact as formidable challenges on paragraph 22 is crucial. given that LDCs face climate related losses averaging 9% of GDP annually, despite contributing less than 1.5% of global emissions. LDC also support the reference to digital technologies and AI as potential drivers of structural transformation. However, LDCs are unable to benefit from the digital and AI revolution due to a serious and widening digital divide. The Global Digital Compact and the Global AI Fund must be called for being implemented with priority, adequate funding and technology transfer to LDCs in this section. We stand ready to engage in crafting actionable commitments that match the scale of LDCs needs. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Kiribati and now give the floor to the representative of Japan, to be followed by the representative of South Africa. Japan, you have the floor.

Thank you, co-facilitators.

Let me be brief.

On paragraph 14, to achieve the SDGs, efforts should be advanced based on the concept of human security, so we propose adding, putting human dignity at the centre through human security approach at the end of the paragraph. On paragraph 18 on health, universal health coverage, UHC should be mentioned as financing for health system is key to achieving UHC. And on education, we propose adding most marginalized children and multi-stakeholders and quality education in line with the proposal from GPE, Global Partnership for Education, and which suggests inserting for peace building and sustaining peace before the last sentence. Additionally, since there are still many conflicts in the world, it is important to mention the use of resources based on peacebuilding perspective and the HDP nexus. So we propose adding a new paragraph after paragraph 24 on peacebuilding and the HDP nexus specifically, and we are ready to suggest the language. Paragraph 22, in general, technology or knowledge transfer involves the transfer of intellectual property such as patents and trade secrets, And most of these are owned by the private sector. Therefore, to prevent the false transfer of private sector property, technology or knowledge transfer should be conducted on voluntarily and mutually agreed terms. On paragraph 23, we suggest adding the importance of mobilizing all sources of funding, which is domestic, international, public and private, and enhancing resource mobilization for effective GVF implementation. Lastly, on paragraph 24, investment in disaster risk reduction is crucial for addressing more frequent and intense disasters and the risk informed public and private investment is cost effective than primary reliance on post disaster response and recovery, we propose including this perspective, thank you.

I thank the representative of Japan and now give the floor to the representative of South Africa to be followed by the representative of Iceland, South Africa.

Thank you, Co-Chair. Uh, we fully support the, uh, paragraph 19 on the empowerment of women and girls, uh, on paragraph 22 on, uh, uh, Environmental financing, South Africa proposes that the entire climate finance architecture needs to be reframed to focus on debt-free and economically just climate finance flows rather than just on profit-driven investments. The quality of finance remains a major constraint in climate action as the bulk of climate finance is in the form of loans that need to be repaid, making ambitious climate action impossible in developing countries. that have high levels of debt and severe fiscal constraints. The paragraph, in our opinion, needs to be redrafted to reflect this. Then finally, we support, like other delegations, the insertion of a paragraph on financing for peace. Others have explained why we need it. And just to recall that we had a paragraph like this in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, and it was paragraph 67. Thank you.

I thank the representative of South Africa and now give the floor to the representative of Iceland to be followed by the representative of India. Iceland, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. This section effectively touches on the main financing challenges facing the sustainable development landscape, including socioeconomic challenges, climate change, biodiversity and food security. In particular, we welcome the reference to the imperative of urgently and systematically addressing funding shortfalls in education and health, as well as the excellent paragraph 19 on gender equality and women's empowerment. In addition, we suggest adding a reference to sexual and reproductive health and rights in this context, as sufficient financing for SRHR is crucial to advance sustainable development and enhance demographic resilience. Investing in SRHR is one of the most impactful ways to unlock women's potential and address the women's health gap in which they currently spend 25% more of their lives in poor health compared to men. Investing in SRHR not only empowers women, but also fuels economic growth, with every one USD invested in family planning returning more than eight USD in benefits for families and societies. Moreover, we would like to emphasize para 25 on the importance of fostering transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance systems, as well as strengthening of anti-corruption institutions. Good governance is vital to advance and sustain financing for development measures and capacity building support to that end remains integral. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Iceland and now give the floor to the representative of India to be followed by the representative of the Russian Federation. India, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. In realizing sustainable development, India would like to propose the following suggestions. In paragraph 13, to strengthen commitments to combating inequality, we propose revising the second sentence to include developing an action plan with definitive steps to combat inequality. In paragraph 15 on social protection, we suggest replacing floors with benchmarks in the first sentence for greater clarity. For paragraph 16, we propose fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young people through financing scalable innovations and request for its suitable incorporation in the second sentence. In paragraph 17, acknowledging the role of digital solutions, we recommend investing in agri-food system transformation with the help of digital technologies. In paragraph 21, we recommend integrating capacity building in the last sentence to emphasize skill development. For paragraph 22, to broaden the funding scope, we propose improving access to climate finance from domestic and international markets, and particularly for developing countries. We need to emphasize that developed countries provide new and additional climate finance and transfer of technology to developing countries. In paragraph 25, to strengthen anti-corruption efforts, we suggest incorporating increase application of digital systems for preventing and monitoring and promote exchange of best practices and technologies in the last sentence. This also ensures a smoother transition into the next paragraph. Finally, in paragraph 26 on the will to support and promote the digital transformation, we may insert support to development of digital public infrastructure. Thank you.

I thank the representative of India and now give the floor to the representative of the Russian Federation to be followed by the representative of Honduras. Russia, you have the floor.

Madam President, Madam Coordinator, in this section we would like to propose the following amendments. The key issue that needs to be singled out at the beginning of the section is combating hunger and poverty. Moreover, we propose that inequality and trust be separated off because they have different natures. Linking the problem of under financing and gender equality seems to be politically motivated. Singling out a single form of inequality in this context does not seem to be justified. In paragraph 16 we propose that we supplement it with a provision on the rights of older persons and also the possibility of training them in new skills throughout their lives. We also recall that, in discussing involving young people in work, we need to differentiate between young people and children. In paragraph 17, we believe it appropriate to raise this issue higher up in the section and add a provision on the unacceptability of the need to eliminate barriers to trade in fertiliser. This is vitally important for ensuring food security and combating hunger. The provision on investing in culture is innovative and needs to be worked on further. Paragraph 19 should take into account that the 2030 Agenda, in its paragraph 20, recognises the contribution of gender equality but does not define it as a necessary condition for the sustainable development goals. Moreover, expanding the empowerment of women depends directly on eliminating extreme poverty and hunger and also ensuring access to education and healthcare. Given a whole number of new wordings here about human rights and gender we propose deleting the entire paragraph. paragraph twenty two we also believe that the conference on financing for development should not turn into a platform to discuss the climate agenda and issues of biodiversity since there are specialised formats provided for that we propose deleting the paragraphs. we are in favour of an active exchange of technologies in all spheres not just in climate. Technological development, however, should be incentivized first and foremost within developing countries, taking into account their national needs rather than focusing solely on the transfer of technology. The issue of the cross-cutting nature of anti-corruption policies was not addressed in the agreed documents. We believe it is important to adhere to the provisions of UNCAC. It's important to take into account the classification of artificial intelligence. in accordance with the work of the itu we see ai as an ict on ai governance there are negotiations underway within the un we also

i thank the representative of the russian federation and now give the floor to the representative of honduras to be followed by the representative of colombia but honduras you have the floor

Good morning, everyone, and thank you, co-facilitator. Under this section, my delegation would like to underscore the fact that number one on paragraph 18 regarding financing education and health, we agree that in this social investment, this is one of the aspects of concern to our delegation. to reduce the gender gap as well, we agree with that, focusing on reducing inequalities between men and women. Turning to paragraph 20, it should be aligned with the call of the UN Secretary General for a new social contract. This initiative is backed by the ILO and also by the UN. We must include the concept of fair transition, taking account of its relevance in the process of decarbonisation and its impact on the productive structure and on job creation. Turning to paragraph 25, we believe that we should include an in-depth paragraph on public and private corrupt alliances. We shouldn't just focus on public corruption. We know that many of these components go hand in hand in public and private alliances as well. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Honduras and now I give the floor to the representative of Colombia to be followed by the representative of the Holy See. But Colombia, you have the floor.

Thank you, Madam. Colombia acknowledge the crucial role of youth in achieving sustainable development. However, the current draft makes limited reference to their contributions. We believe it is essential to further emphasize their involvement in development processes in paragraph 16. Additionally, Colombia emphasizes the importance of ensuring full inclusion and participation of persons with disability in sustainable development and that is to be included in paragraph 20. Finally, Colombia fully supports paragraph 19 related to gender. It rightly affirms that gender equality and women's empowerment are vital for sustainable development. Thank you, Madam.

I thank the representative of Colombia. And I give the floor to the representative of the Holy See to be followed by the representative of Pakistan. Holy See, you have the floor.

madam co—facilitator we see that this chapter pulls out several important cross—cutting issues however we feel like there are elements that are lacking and also others that maybe need to be repositioned within this chapter firstly as noted by the g seventy seven this section on realising sustainable development fails to adequately acknowledge the critical importance of eradicating poverty as a means to achieving sustainable development. As such, the Holy See intends to propose a standalone paragraph on poverty eradication as 12 bis. As reaffirmed in the Pact for the Future, poverty eradication is an indispensable requirement for sustainable development. Therefore, any true realisation of sustainable development is not possible without ending all forms of poverty. In paragraph 17, we suggest that the paragraph be moved up after the standalone paragraph on poverty. We also acknowledge that we are happy to see that the draft recognises the role of culture in sustainable development. Paragraph 19 contains some important elements, but we believe that the language on gender equality as a prerequisite for sustainable development undermines the agreed 2030 agenda language that affirms the eradication of poverty as a prerequisite for sustainable development. Moreover, language on an intersectional approach is not something that my delegation could support. With regard to paragraph 21, we would also support the addition of capacity development in that paragraph, as many colleagues have noted.

I thank the representative of the Holy See. I give the floor to the representative of Pakistan, to be followed by the representative of the United Kingdom.

Thank you, Colfax. We align with the comments made by G77 on this section and would add the following in national capacity. We would echo the call for a dedicated paragraph on the eradication of poverty as the greatest global challenge. We suggest maybe paragraph four of the 2024 HLPF outcome document be used as the basis for that. There are several problematic issues for our delegation in paragraph 19. We suggest that the first sentence of the paragraph be replaced with the agreed formulation from the 2030 agenda as follows, realizing gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls will make a crucial contribution to progress across all the goals and targets. We request the deletion of the reference to We acknowledge the importance of an intersectional approach. We will not be able to accept that. Um, we request the inclusion of a reference to women's economic empowerment after the reference to mainstreaming gender equality considerations and fiscal policies. So it would, uh, ideally read mainstream gender equality and women's economic empowerment considerations in fiscal policies and development, uh, financing. we would request to replace the reference to gender disparities with barriers hindering women's full economic potential. We support paragraph 21 on infrastructure and would suggest including language on the fact that investing in sustainable and resilient infrastructure is a prerequisite for many of our goals. This is language inspired from Addis. We also suggest that the reference to middle-income countries be added to the listing of developing countries. On paragraph 22, we express our support to the reference to provide new and additional financial resources. If we are to talk about climate finance in this document, we need the phrase new and additional whenever we talk about climate finance. and we have heard proposals to go into details on temperature targets and goals, etc. We will not be able to support that. We don't want this document to be a climate document. So perhaps we can just add mitigation to urgent actions to adapt to and mitigate climate change, but we would not suggest going into details on specific temperature targets and goals. We have concerns on paragraph 25, corruption was not elevated as a cross-cutting issue in Addis. This is an imbalanced approach to SDG 16, taking only one aspect of it. We suggest that paragraph eight be moved down to this section and replace 25, so we have a more balanced approach to that of SDG 16, and we don't highlight only one aspect of it as a cross-cutting issue, nor do we ignore other issues of financial integrity like illicit financial flows. So 25 in its current formulation will not be acceptable to us. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Pakistan and now give the floor to the representative of the United Kingdom to be followed by the representative of Armenia. But UK, you have the floor.

Thank you so much. We will give a highlight of our comments for this section and submit more in writing just in aid of the fact that we are short on time. On paragraph 12, we believe more financing is vital to achieve the SDGs, but we must also ensure that finance is spent with even greater impact, including for those furthest behind. On paragraph 15, we think that finance should be flexible, adaptive and conflict sensitive for shock responsive and core social protection in response to crises and situations of conflict and fragility. And we support South Africa's comments on a new paragraph for peace to reflect the Addis Agenda commitment. On paragraph 17, the financing gap to address food security and malnutrition is estimated to be trillions of dollars. We need better targeting of existing finance to help reduce this gap. We propose a new paragraph to follow paragraph 19. It is imperative that nobody is left behind in the implementation of the SDGs. In all parts of the world, persons with disabilities continue to face barriers in their participation as equal members of society and there are violations of their human rights. We will submit a paragraph of language to support this group. On OP22, we would suggest to add language on locally led adaptation approaches and language on exploring how climate and biodiversity action can drive growth, reduce poverty and promote development outcomes. On OP23, we would like to add that biodiversity is fundamental to human well-being, a healthy planet, economic prosperity and sustainable development, but it's being lost at an unprecedented rate. On OP24, we want to see a commitment to mechanisms such as accessible and inclusive multi-hazard early warning systems to enable early and anticipatory action and early action in particular for DRR. In addition, we call for the use of pre-arranged financing to be scaled up globally, reaching people and communities more quickly to reduce the cost of action and accelerate recovery. On OP25, we recommend that we add a reference to media freedom as imperative for good governance and anti-corruption as it ensures transparency and holds those in power accountable. Thank you so much.

I thank the representative of the United Kingdom and now give the floor to the representative of Armenia to be followed by the representative of Tanzania. Armenia, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

And since this is the first.

Time I'm taking the floor, I would like to thank the co-facilitators for presenting a comprehensive zero draft, which is a good basis for further negotiations. We support the paragraphs of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young people, as well as on achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls. And we believe that we can further strengthen the language on these topics. Referring to the environmental crisis and their effects on sustainable development in paragraph 22 and 23.

It is important to further strengthen the commitments of providing additional financial resources.

Including and most importantly through innovative mechanisms to combat climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. Among such innovative mechanisms is the debt for climate swap, which?

Enables the financing of climate mitigation and adaptation projects for developing countries facing serious.

Additional suggestions on this matter will be provided in writing. In paragraph 24, we believe that investing in early warning mechanisms is an essential component.

When we are referring to investment.

In disaster risk reduction to build resilience and preparedness, especially for developing countries and countries in special.

Situations, to safeguard development gains from disasters. As for the discussions on renewed global financing framework, let me echo our support to the statements delivered by distinguished colleagues of Morocco and Philippines regarding the need for more detailed focus on challenges of middle-income countries and stronger language, including on advancement of elaboration of specific interagency comprehensive system-wide response plan for middle-income countries. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Armenia and now give the floor to the representative of the United Republic of Tanzania to be followed by the representative of Bangladesh. Tanzania, you have the floor.

Thank you, facilitator.

Since I'm taking the floor for the first.

Time, I would like to acknowledge the commendable efforts made in preparation of the zero draft.

Outcome document for the fourth international conference on financing for development.

My delegation align itself with the comment made by G77 and China, Africa Group and LDC Group. Allow me to add a few comments in my national capacity as follows.

Starting with paragraph 14, the text should explicitly address the critical issue of energy, including clean cooking, particularly in relation to underinvestment and the lack of access to essential public services.

Clean cooking energy is fundamental to the well-being of communities and to curb climate change challenges, especially in developing.

Countries, and should be prioritized as key component for public service provision.

In this regard, I wish to draw attention to the recent Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration, a pledge made by African leaders at the Africa Energy Summit.

Held on 27, 28 January this year in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This commitment aimed to provide.

Reliable and affordable electricity to.

300 million people across the continent by 2030, primarily through increased investment in renewable energy sources and infrastructure development.

This underscores the urgent need for enhanced donor support and increased funding in the energy sector. Additionally, referring to the paragraph.

18, which called for increased investment in culture, it is crucial to emphasize that the focus should be on preserving.

And promoting culture that foster peace, unity and mutual understanding. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Chair. We have the following suggestions. In paragraph 12, we would like to mention, after saying all the SDGs, we should include the pledge of leaving no one behind. In paragraph 13, we would like to suggest that a phrase saying strengthen this transparency and accountability of multilateral system to be included in the first sentence. And also we feel the necessity of quantifying an initial target for the wealth and income inequality to be reduced by some year. It's to be mentioned here just to starting, just to initiate at some point. In paragraph 14, we would like to, no, the paragraph 14 is, we keep it as it is. In paragraph 15, we feel the necessity of mentioning about MDBs and IMF after international community. In paragraph 17, we feel we should refer to the UN report that suggests that women and girls make up 60% of the chronically hungry community globally. And also we would like to suggest that at the end of this paragraph we should address the issue of hidden hunger saying that developing countries that leads to affordable nutritious food for consumers while ensuring a decent living for small scale producers. Also in paragraph 20 we would like to mention the inclusion of the phrase with a view to enhancing economic transformation and job creation for the MSMEs. And also we would like to suggest the inclusion of youth community alongside these women-led business and business owners. Also in paragraph 21, we felt the necessity of including education and health sector in the first line where we are suggesting the significant infrastructure gap. And also there are clusters of countries mentioned together, and we feel the necessity of mentioning climate vulnerable countries in each of these phrases and segments. In paragraph 22, we would like to suggest inclusion of the phrase, "improved access to debt-free climate finance, particularly on adaptation, provide new and additional financial resources, grant-based adaptation, loss and damage financing, balanced allocation between adaptation and mitigation, avoid double counting and mixing, uh, with ODA prioritizing the role of public finance in line with CBDRRC. We'll provide a written text on that. And also we would like to put special emphasis on building the resilience for most impacted women, children, and vulnerable community that should be addressed here in.

I'm sorry. Thank you, Bangladesh. I now give the floor to the representative of Indonesia to be followed by the representative of Yemen. Indonesia, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

We wish to reiterate our continued alignment with the statement of the G77 China in the subsection, and we would like to add the following in our national capacity. Addressing poverty is fundamental to achieving sustainable development as it remains the greatest challenge. Therefore, we are of the view that the eradication of poverty should be positioned more prominently in the document. Second, to achieve sustainable development, Indonesia reaffirms that ensuring universal and inclusive social protection must be a priority. As efforts to strengthen social protection mechanisms continue, we call for predictable concessional and countercyclical financing from international financial institutions. This is crucial to ensure that financing for social protection remains uninterrupted, especially during economic shocks and climate-induced crises. We wish to express our appreciation to the COFAX in recognizing the importance of addressing the diverse needs and challenges faced by countries in special situations. as well as taking into account the specific challenges faced by middle-income countries in para 10. Therefore, we wish that the COFEX maintain the insertion of middle-income countries in the subsection and the whole document when discussing developing countries. Lastly, we believe that FFV4 shall provide opportunities to ensure the enabling environment in promoting economic growth, including by tapping into new and emerging sectors, building upon each country's potentials. In this regard, we are aligning with the comment made by other delegations on the insertion of creative economy in this subsection, including by ensuring affordable finance, capacity building research, experience sharing and technical assistance, given that the creative economy is in increasing contribution to the achievement of sustainable development, not only that the sector generates income and decent jobs. but also supports the acceleration of socioeconomic development and promotes inclusion, economic diversification, innovation and multiculturalism. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Indonesia and now give the floor to the representative of Yemen to be followed by the representative of Saudi Arabia. Yemen, please.

Thank you, Madam Co-Chair. In paragraph 12, there is a lack of concrete measures for integrated financing, so we propose after the word interlink to add the importance of having coordinated and measurable financing approaches across developed and developing countries while acknowledging the different national capacities and circumstances. This will reflect the differentiated responsibilities while maintaining universal commitment. On Article 14, we think there is a gap in mentioning the specific financing commitment. So we propose to recognize the urgent need for developed countries to enhance support for social sector investment in developing countries, particularly LDCs. In Article 15, Uh, there is a need to recognize the different national circumstances, so it's important to take into account the different national starting point and physical capacities while ensuring, uh, international support for countries with limited resources. Article 16 and 17, I think there is a need to recognize the different regional variation. So we propose that this article should make a reference to the enhancement support mechanism for regions facing acute challenges while building on successful experiences. On articles 18 and 19, there is insufficient attention to financial, financing sustainability. Uh, the, the, uh, there is, uh, you know, recommendation that we, we, uh, there should be a commitment to establishing a sustainable financing mechanism that combine enhanced domestic resources mobilization by developing countries with predictable international support from developed countries, this will create what we are talking about and, uh, uh, it's the shared responsibility framework. in articles 21 and 22, 20 and 21, there is a need to focus on quality and sustainability. So there is a need to add something, you know, to add a reference to the acknowledgement of the infrastructure financing gap facing developing countries and committing to enhancing support through blended finance mechanism. Article 22, I think we need to recognize the historical responsibilities here, and there is a need to reaffirm the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities with developed, uh, countries taking the lead in providing, uh, climate financing while supporting developing countries, uh, adaptation and mitigation effort. This will reflect actually the established principle while, uh, promoting, uh, actions. In article 23, I think the rest of the articles will provide them in writing, so that time is finished.

I thank the representative of Yemen and now give the floor to the representative of Saudi Arabia to be followed by the representative of Switzerland. Saudi Arabia.

Thank you, Madam co-facilitator. In paragraph 19, the phrase intersectional approach lacks specificity. To ensure an action-oriented focus on empowering women across key sectors, we require replacing it with concrete measures focused on women's empowerment, such as prioritizing solutions to address barriers such as lack of access to healthcare, education, career development, equal pay, and leadership opportunities. In paragraphs 22 and 23, we cannot have a unified commitment to provide new and additional financial resources, nor in improving access to climate finance unless the distinction of responsibilities in climate finance provisions as per UNFCCC and its Paris Agreement is clearly defined in the paragraph. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Saudi Arabia and now give the floor to the representative of Switzerland to be followed by the representative of Brazil. Switzerland, please.

Thank you, Madam Chair.

We would like to make three comments to this section. The first one on para 19.

Like other delegations, we fully support the strong message regarding gender equality and empowerment of women and girls.

We consider this paragraph

as cross-cutting and we intend sending you additional language to ensure that FFD4 does not fall behind paragraph six

of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. This goes for para 19, but also for some other paragraphs in the outcome document. The second comment is on paragraph 25.

We also fully support the integration of anti-corruption as a cross-cutting issue. Uh, this para is important step forward compared to the, to others.

We also believe that integrity and merit based recruiting in public services is a critical precondition that available public funds are spent in official manner towards the SDGs.

We will suggest language as we believe that this is, will increase public trust in governmental institutions.

The last comment is on paragraph 27.

We suggest additional language on funding.

It is crucial that data and statistics are recognised not only as a monitoring tool, but also as a basis for evidence-based decisions, accountability and transparency. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Switzerland and now give the floor to the representative of Brazil, to be followed by the representative of Australia. Brazil, please.

Thank you, Chair. Brazil aligns itself with the comments made by the G77 and China, and we'd like to make some comments in our national capacity as well. Para 14, when we're talking about the increased inequalities, we'd like to include exacerbates racial and gender inequalities. We commit to eradicate poverty in all its forms, including extreme poverty. I would like to include and hunger. reduce inequalities and so forth. In this para, we would like to include a specific mention to the Global Alliance Against Poverty and Hunger. So it's been said that we're lacking specifics in this declaration. This is very specific. The Global Alliance has already 148 members, including 82 countries, the African Union, the European Union, international organizations and civil society organizations. So within a year of its creation, so this is very universal in scope. We would also like to add a para 14 bis with regards to bioeconomy. So the para would read, we recognize that bioeconomy constitutes a fundamental tool to address these challenges and to promote sustainable development in its three dimensions. So bioeconomy uses biomass and biotechnology to produce good services and energy, and it should be a big part of our sustainable development solution. Para 15, we encourage countries to provide so essential social spending. We'd like to include the following, including for health services, reproductive services, and food security. In para 16, towards the end of that, digital capacity building to enhance their further inclusion and contributions. So this is referring to young people. Para 17, we would like a specific mention of the Global Alliance Against Poverty and Hunger here, or in the previous para, as mentioned. With regards to para 19, achieving gender and racial equality, further down again, racial and gender equality and the empowerment of all women, further down, we will mainstream gender equality considerations in the governments of the multilateral and national economic institutions. And towards the end, unpaid care and domestic work done by women, enhancing data production on the issue. With regards to para 20, comprehensive, sustainable, and universal education and care systems are essential to transform the gendered and racial division of labor. Finally, in para 22, We would like to add additional and flexible financial resources, including adaptable to the needs of groups at the frontline of climate responses. Further comments will be sent by email.

I thank the representative of Brazil and now give the floor to the representative of Australia to be followed by the representative of Nicaragua. Australia.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Regarding para 12, FFD4 must recognise the diverse range of context and challenges faced by different states and communities so that we leave no one behind. This includes gender equality, equality for people living with a disability, as well as recognition of indigenous populations and other marginalised groups. In para 13, we would like to see a reference to inequalities within many countries have increased dramatically and that women representing half the world's population, as well as indigenous peoples and the vulnerable, continue to be excluded from participating fully in the economy. In para 15, we welcome the inclusion of language on social protection systems and language on floors. We encourage a step up on efforts towards the achievement of SDG 1.3 and encourage the para to align with South Africa's G20 call to fast track universal social protection through national strategies to achieve universal social protection. In the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, this is still with para 15, we all agreed on a new social compact that agreed to provide fiscally sustainable and nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all. We want to see a reinvigoration of this compact in this para. In para 18, we believe it's preferable to have standalone paras on education and health. We would like to see a reference to how education and health investments fosters economic growth and the education and health outcomes we seek, including ensuring that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy, and expanding universal health coverage, support for sexual and reproductive health and rights, and access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services. In para 19, we welcome the strong discussion of gender equality in the zero draft and highlight the importance of keeping this paragraph in the outcome document. We support a new para following para 19 on the need to respond to the needs of people with disability. In para 22, sustainable development and combating climate change are interlinked challenges that must be addressed in a connected way. If we treat each challenge as a silo, we will fail. Finance must be mobilized from all sources if we are to meet our development climate goals. Para 25, we welcome references to addressing corruption. We also seek inclusion of references to addressing corruption to be in line with international obligations. Corruption is a cross-cutting issue and anti-corruption measures should be integrated consistently and according to existing standards, primarily the United Nations Convention against Corruption.

I thank the representative of Australia and now give the floor to the representative of Nicaragua to be followed by the representative of Ecuador. Nicaragua.

Good morning. Thank you very much, Ambassador. Nicaragua aligns itself with the G77 and China, and in our national capacity on realizing sustainable development, we believe it essential to call for more concrete commitments and actionable actions. To address factors that limit our growth, we would underscore the eradication of poverty. It's not enough to recognise the need for financing, we need to guarantee accessible mechanisms which are fair and without conditions in order to close the gap in education, health, infrastructure and social protection. At the same time, we must bolster access to technology and digitalisation in developing countries. with real transparency and effective know-how, which is not subject to economic barriers. And finally, governance must be more inclusive, enabling developing countries to participate actively in the decision-making process. at the international financial level and that they be involved in the international global system.

Thank you.

Thank you, co-facilitator. Paragraph 24 is particularly important and we welcome its inclusion. However, we believe that it could be further improved with a more explicit reference to international cooperation. Given the current context in which disasters are increasingly intensive and frequent, we need a clear commitment to bolster international cooperation, ensuring that investment in response and recovery will be effective and sustainable. That being said, we propose the following sentence: strengthen international cooperation That would be at the end of the last line after scale up investment in order to reflect the importance of international cooperation in these efforts. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Ecuador and now give the floor to the representative of Sierra Leone to be followed by the representative of Israel. Sierra Leone, please.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Since this is the first time the Republic of Sierra Leone is taking the floor, on the outset, I would like to thank the co-facilitators for the work put into this outcome document, which lays a strong foundation for discussion and further engagement. Sierra Leone aligns itself with the statement of the G77 and China, the African group, and the LDC group on the draft document. Additionally, in our national capacity, Sierra Leone commends the inclusion of financial literacy and digital capacity building for young people in paragraph 16. However, we believe that the commitment to addressing the whole of financial inclusion, especially for women and informal businesses, is imperative for realizing sustainable development. Therefore, we suggest that that aspect be captured in this session. On paragraph 17, Sierra Leone believes that the lack of access to finance is a binding constraint to agricultural investment in least developed countries. Therefore, this session should commit to addressing this challenge, which could include the establishment or strengthening of agricultural banks in least developed countries. And that could also include encouraging the private sector actors to into financing space for the agricultural sector. Thank you so much.

I thank the representative of Sierra Leone and now give the floor to the representative of Israel to be followed by the representative of Cabo Verde. Israel, you have the floor.

Thank you, Madam co-facilitator. Since this is the first time I'm taking the floor, allow me to express our appreciation to the co-facilitators for their efforts in consolidating over 300 inputs into a single zero draft. We believe that this draft provides a solid basis for our discussions, and we look forward to engaging constructively with all colleagues. In this chapter, we thank the co-facilitators for providing the important paragraph 19. In this context, we support language that calls to enhance our efforts to achieve full gender equality and the right to health for all. We also thank you for the paragraph on entrepreneurship and MSMEs, paragraph 20, and support these references. We view these elements as indispensable to achieving the SDGs. On paragraph 22 and 26, and in general throughout the text, with regard to technology transfer and access to technology, we recommend having the necessary language that enables fair cooperation on multilateral platforms, which is on a voluntary basis and mutually agreed terms. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Israel and now give the floor to the representative of Cabo Verde to be followed by the representative of Nigeria. Cabo Verde, please.

Thank you, Madam President.

Since the first time we're taking the floor on outset, we'd like to welcome and thank the draft outcome document of FFD4 as an important base for further discussions. We align with the previous statements made by the African Group, EOSIS, G75 and China. Developing countries, SIDS, LDCs, LLDCs face unique development challenges, including extreme exposure to climate change impacts and external shocks, with limited resources to address these issues

and to achieve sustainable development. Despite these challenges, through innovation, resilience, and strong partnerships, we are making progress. However, we emphasize the importance of strengthening global solidarity and enhanced partnership to effectively tackle this pressing challenge.

In this regard, ensuring sustainable funding for development is essential.

We advocate for innovative financial mechanisms, including debt for natural swaps, debt for climate swaps, climate bonds, and debt

relief tied to infrastructure and sustainable development projects. This approach would enable developing countries,

states, LDCs, LLDCs to build resilience and to reinvest in critical sectors and transform financial obligations into opportunities for sustainable growth.

Importantly, such mechanisms must promote economic sustainability, local community empowerment and private sector development. Therefore, we suggest that these important concerns be more explicit in the paragraphs 20, 21 and 22.

Thank you.

I thank the representative of Cabo Verde and now give the floor to the representative of Nigeria to be followed by the representative of Zimbabwe. Nigeria, please.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair, for giving us the floor. First, we would like to align with the statement delivered on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. And Madam Chair, we would like to focus particularly on Article 25 dealing with the issue of corruption. We note the importance of preventing and combating corruption and asset recovery that is needed to bridge the financing gap. And Madam Chair, it is curious that the zero draft made no reference to the work and activities of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption and its subsidiary bodies, especially, uh, intergovernmental working group on asset recovery, immobilizing the needed financing for, for development. Madam Chair, we also recall that the UNGA on June 2, 2021, also adopted a political declaration, and that was the first United Nations special section on corruption. And there were actionable proposals, especially the paragraphs dealing with asset recovery, which hinged on the efforts of the international community to continue to recover and return assets that are needed for development. So my delegation would like to see a reference that ensures that member states recommit to all of those laudable proposals in the political declaration, as well as recommend and recognize the activities and work of the Conference of Parties to United Nations Convention Against Corruption and its subsidiary bodies in efforts to recover and return assets and assist with financing for development. Thank you very much, Madam Chair.

I thank the representative of Nigeria and it seems like the representative of Zimbabwe did not want to speak now, my mistake. So I will give the floor to the representative of the World Food Programme to be followed by the representative of the organization DAI Global UK. But World Food Programme, you have the floor.

Thank you to the co-facilitators and the team for putting together the zero draft of the document. This section of the outcome document emphasizes strengthening food security, nutrition, and building resilient food systems. We would like the document to continue emphasizing these investments in local and regional value change, sustainable infrastructure, and ensuring access to nutritious, affordable foods, particularly for vulnerable groups.

In humanitarian context, the document underscores resilience building by enhancing local capacities, fostering sustainable

practices, and encouraging international cooperation to recover and adapt food systems amid crises and climate shocks. However, the humanitarian development peace nexus can be further emphasized. Development assistance in the context of humanitarian needs is a crucial pathway to reducing future humanitarian demands. The humanitarian development peace lens will also ensure financing resources are mutually supportive to achieving food security, and we recommend this reference for paragraph 17. Paragraph 18 should recognize that children and youth account for a large and rising share of poverty and hunger, and that poverty, hunger, and educational disadvantage do interact.

We need to deploy all measures at our disposal,

social protection, safety nets, more efficient and equitable health and education budgets, and school meal programs aimed at improving human capital development.

For paragraph 22,

We'd like to highlight that the financing for resilience building remains a small percentage of the overall climate finance budgets, despite the intensifying crises it aims to address.

There is a persistent disparity

between financing for climate mitigation versus adaptation, and we need a focus on additional investments in long-term adaptation and resilience building strategies.

Lastly, on section 24, we suggest broadening the scope to highlight the needs

and effectiveness in investing in early action and disaster preparedness. We will suggest language to include early warning anticipatory actions for this paragraph and also for the rest of this document. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the WFP. of P and I now give the floor to the representative of DAI Global UK to be followed by the representative of the organization India, Tauheed Jamat. But DAI Global UK, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair, distinguished delegates. The outcome document explicitly recognizes the challenges posed by increasing disaster risk. But it must go further in laying out a framework to proactively tackle these risks if it is to deliver on its aims. Disasters set back development, as mentioned by many delegations yesterday and today. As climate shocks become more frequent and intense, there can be no achieving the sustainable development goals unless we seize this opportunity to shockproof the international financial architecture. The Center for Disaster Protection has three specific recommendations related to paragraphs 12 to 27, but can be streamlined throughout the text. First, in paragraph 24, we would welcome reference to increasing the scale and quality of prearranged financing for crises. We know agreeing money ahead of shocks with clear triggers for its release means funds flow more quickly and effectively while smoothing costs and reducing fiscal volatility for governments. A new high-level panel report on closing the crisis protection gap makes an ambitious but achievable call to increase prearranged finance tenfold by 2035. Our agreement here could set the pace in delivering on that goal. Second, debt is well covered, and we welcome recognition of the role instruments such as climate resilient debt clauses can play. But that is only part of the story. Disaster risk is undermining debt sustainability and can make borrowing more expensive. Prearranged finance can work to strengthen debt sustainability. The outcome document should recognize the role of proactive risk management in reducing debt vulnerabilities and supporting fiscal sustainability. Finally, the money out systems, how, where, and on what basis funds are directed to those on the frontline of disasters is equally critical. This document should ensure those links are made ahead of shocks in order to protect livelihoods, safeguard critical infrastructure, ensure continuity of essential public services like social protection for communities, as well as accelerate economic recovery in the wake of a disaster. Thank you.

I thank you. And I now give the floor to the representative of India, Tauhid Jamath, to be followed by the representative of Libya. But you have the floor, sir.

Honorable co-facilitator, distinguished delegates, and esteemed stakeholders, I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to these important discussions on the zero draft of the outcome document for the fourth International Conference on Financing for Development. I speak on behalf of India Tauhid Jamaat Trust, a grassroots organization committed to poverty alleviation and social welfare and sustainable development in India. We commend the efforts to create a comprehensive zero draft and we recognize its importance in shaping a financing framework that ensures equity, inclusion, and sustainability. However, we'd like to emphasize the following key priorities. One, strengthening financing for grassroots organizations. The draft must recognize the critical role of grassroots NGOs in implementing in SDGs. Access to direct funding for local organizations remains a major challenge due to bureaucratic and regulatory barriers. We urge inclusion of simplified, transparent funding mechanisms that ensure resources reach the communities most in need. Two, investing in social protection systems. The global financing agenda must prioritize universal access to healthcare, education, and social safety nets, especially in developing economies. INTG actively provides free meals, medical aid and scholarships to marginalized communities, but sustained impact requires institutionalized support. We propose the establishment of a dedicated global financing mechanism to support community-based social protection initiatives. Number three, supporting sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment. Microfinance and vocational training should be key pillars of the financing framework to create employment opportunities and reduce dependence on aid. The document should reinforce inclusive financial systems that allow marginalized communities, especially women and small entrepreneurs, to access capital and economic resources. Number four, ensuring accountability and equitable resource distribution. The zero draft should address mechanism for financial transparency and accountability in both public and private financing for development. There is a need for regular monitoring and evaluation of how development funds are allocated and utilized, particularly at the grassroots level. In conclusion, we urge the co-facilitators to strengthen the recognition of grassroots organizations in the financing framework and ensure equitable access to financial resources for those working directly with vulnerable populations. We look forward to constructive engagement throughout the FFDAFO process and stand ready to collaborate in shaping a financing system that is just, inclusive and impactful. Thank you.

Thank you. I now give the floor to the representative of Libya, to be followed by the representative of the European Union. Libya, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, Madam. As this is the first time I am taking the floor, I would like to thank the co-facilitators for their tireless efforts to prepare this zero draft. My delegation endorses the statement by Iraq on behalf of the G77 and China, and Angola's statement on behalf of the African Group. We would also like to make these comments in our national capacity. My delegation endorses what the Member States have said regarding Paragraph 15 with regard to the cross-cutting approach reference, we reaffirm that women and youth have an essential role to play in development.

Union to be followed by the representative of UNODC. European Union, please.

Thank you, Your Excellency. Good morning, colleagues. Uh, to pick up on our comments, uh, in this segment on, uh, paragraph 19, uh, we would like to add a reference to ensuring women's equal, uh, rights, uh, and opportunities and participation and leadership in the economy and elimination of gender-based violence and, uh, all forms of discrimination. We have an additional 19 bis to add to stress the importance of inclusion and in that respect focusing on the rights of people with disabilities and ensuring that they also participate effectively in the economy. In paragraph 20 we have some minor tweaks which we will forward to you. In paragraph 21, Also, uh, reference to, uh, higher transaction costs in addition to, uh, costs proper, um, they may be related to higher risks of investment, but nevertheless, we can address them, um, explicitly in this, uh, program of action. Uh, we have a new 21 bis on sustainable industrial development, there are opportunities to be seized from, uh, sustainable consumption and production patterns from the circular economy and industry 4.0, which we should also, um, allude to. Paragraph 22 has two important points. One of them is that we really need to get the language on climate right here. It is not just about addressing the impacts, but we do need to still reinforce our efforts to address this existential crisis and take measures to curb emissions and reach the goals of the Paris Agreement. The second important point is that while we fully, wholeheartedly support the facilitation of transfer of technology, we cannot, as the UN, condone technology transfer that is coerced, forced, or on terms that are somehow not agreed mutually. So we will insist across the board on having the right caveats of voluntary and mutually agreed terms. Paragraph 23, we have a new 23 bis to propose on pollution. This is a huge issue for humanity, and so we have some language to forward on that. In paragraph 24, we would like to see a reference to the Sendai Framework, as well as a reference to reducing the insurance protection gap against natural hazards. full support to the paragraph 25 on corruption. It is fundamental for building public trust and strengthening the social contract, which is so important in many, many ways. So we would like to explicitly see a reference to that. We have some.

I thank the representative of the European Union and I now give the floor to the representative of UNODC to be followed by the representative of the Global Forum for Media Development. But UNODC, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, Madam co-facilitator. Excellencies, dear colleagues, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime took note with appreciation of the issuance of the zero draft outcome document. Which emphasize the importance of addressing corruption, financial integrity and inclusion, uh, including on sections on sustainable borrowing trades, domestic results, mobilization, of course, and tax, but also across the rest of the text, UNEDCIS submitted two briefs as part of the call for inputs. Which informed the development of the zero draft in both emphasize the importance of economic and financial crime and how they undermine domestic resource mobilization and inclusive economic growth and that financial integrity and anti-corruption are essential for development finance, echoing language under action four of the pact of the future. which included the decision of Member States to strengthen ongoing efforts to prevent and combat corruption, the zero draft highlights, I quote, that anti-corruption measures must be integrated in all dimensions of financing for development. While all these elements are currently addressed in this initial draft, it is critical that they remain at the test will evolve. We would also like to take this opportunity to add additional and raise additional elements for member states consideration, the mediation mechanism referred to in paragraph 31E would not necessarily be an effective use of resources. Instead, strengthening existing mechanisms would seem like a more efficient measure, in particular, considering strengthening the work that the joint UNODC and the World Bank stolen asset recovery initiative already carries out to convene, plan and organize coordination meetings for practitioners of relevant jurisdiction. We will encourage member states to provide funding for support for this platform, which has provided meaningful assistance to countries and it did very positive results. It is also important to strengthen the commitment to asset recovery and to consider adopting inclusive asset recovery strategies that involve not only law enforcement agencies, but also addresses all the issues such as the role of enablers and financial centers and the inter languages between corruption and tax crimes and tax evasion. Robust anti-money laundering and counter-financing terrorism frameworks would also be essential to support member states' efforts to combat economic and financial crime. We will continue to facilitate dialogue on these issues, including with a side event taking place in a few days in Vienna, and find opportunities to work with you to raise this issue in the global forum. Thank you very much.

I thank the representative of UNODC. And the final speaker on paragraphs 12 to 27 will be the representative of the Global Forum for Media Development. You may start preparing yourselves for the next section, which are paragraphs 28 and 29 on the domestic resource mobilization. But first, the representative of the Global Forum for Media Development.

Thank you, Madam co-facilitator. The Global Forum for Media Development is the largest community of organizations working to strengthen high quality public interest media across the world, and we welcome this opportunity to make comments on this important document. GFMD urges the co-facilitator to consider two important points about the information and media environment that we believe will strengthen FFD4 and help ensure its success. The first point is to strengthen and incorporate the existing global commitments to the sustainable development goals and the pact for the future as foundations for success of FFD4. Echoing many previous comments on this draft, we call for explicit alignment with those existing and mutually reinforcing frameworks that will bolster this agreement. In particular, we draw attention to SDG 16 and the Pact for the Future, both of which describe concrete ambitions that are closely aligned with FFD4. Combined with longstanding UN frameworks for human rights and freedom of expression, SDG 16 sets specific targets for effective governance, transparency, and safety of journalists. The Pact for the Future, for its part, reached broad consensus on a series of fundamental commitments to build trustworthy news and information systems that enhance transparency, accountability, access to data, and information literacy. As part of the pact for the future, the global digital compact establishes principles for digital governance, digital rights, and diverse media ecosystems to ensure that the internet, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies serve human needs and progress. We urge that FFD4 reiterate these important goals in this opening section of the document as part of the foundational aims and objectives. The second point is to support public interest media capacity to improve governance and promote transparency in public engagement and development financing. We align ourselves with the statement by representatives from Switzerland and the UK and urge member states to acknowledge the pivotal role of public interest media in fostering transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights within the context of financing for development, particularly the contributions of investigative journalists. We ask that the FFD4 recognize the need for strengthening institutional infrastructure for professional media that serves the public good and that it endorse enhancing the capacities of journalists to cover and explain the development finance process to the public. We also encourage states to recognize the role of public interest media in advancing media and financial literacy, raising awareness, empowering citizens to demand those accountability and those in power and guaranteeing public access to reliable information.

I thank the representative of the global, where did I put it, global media forum. And as we move on to the next section, I will give the chairing over to Ambassador Chola. So please.

Thank you very much and good morning to you all. We have covered the preamble sections of the document and we still have a lot to cover. We're now getting into the main aspects of the document. We encourage you all to be very concise in your interventions because we have several sections that we want to cover in quite detail, including all the way up to the follow-up sections. So we encourage you to be most efficient in your interventions. I have a full list already. We'll start with Angola representing G77. and then Ghana representing Africa group, and then we'll have Pakistan. Angola, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. co-facilitator, and good morning to you all. Co-facilitators, the group acknowledge the importance of the chapter on domestic public resources as a foundation for achieving the sustainable development goals. We recognize the relevance of aligning fiscal systems with sustainable development priorities as highlighted in paragraphs 28 and 29.

However, we emphasize the need to account for different national circumstances, priorities and capacities in the process. In this regard, we have the concern regarding the scope of international support for building institutional and human capacities as noted in paragraph 29. While the draft recognized the need for capacity building, it does not provide sufficient practical measures to address the capacity gaps faced by many developing countries. Stronger commitments and clear frameworks for international cooperation are essential to enhance domestic resources mobilization. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that developing countries are not overburdened with climate mitigation commitments that may hinder their broader development goals.

With this, thank you.

Thank you for your efficiency. And now I give the floor to the representative from Ghana, representing Africa Group.

Co-facilitators, the Africa Group aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the G77 and China, and would like to add the following. paragraph twenty nine b should also call for support for developing countries to enable them to rationalise tax expenditures and use targeted incentives to attract investment in more diversified and transformative sectors. We request the addition in paragraph 29J, a commitment to allocate at least 10% of ODA towards the digitalization of tax administrators and capacity building in Africa to strengthen countries' capacity for domestic resource mobilization and improving governance. Paragraph 30C should be strengthened to support the work of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee for the UN Framework Convention on International Task Cooperation.

In this regard- Sorry, sorry, just a moment. We're covering 28 and 29 only. I see you're going to paragraph 30.

Okay. we would stop here and, uh, when it gets to that time, we would, uh, provide our input.

Thank you. Thank you very much. Just reserve your comments for the next section. Uh, I beg your indulgence, uh, Pakistan, um, we have, uh, two groups who are, who want to speak first, uh, European Union and then, uh, and then Burkina Faso. Thank you. The EU.

Thank you, Excellency. I'll try to speed through our comments. Um, so, This is, of course, a very important section, very important chapter. I just want to stress that there are some issues that are very sensitive to our group, and so we will be making edits and proposals in a very constructive vein, but there are some edits that we will be needing in terms of the sensitivities of this area. So in paragraph 28, we would like to add that domestic resource mobilization helps to catalyze other funding, and that it may enhance the use of foreign aid, attract private sector and this is an important aspect not to miss mentioning. We would also like to underline that national development banks have local knowledge, for example on use of local currency, so a stronger mandate to them might help make a bigger impact nationally. Paragraph 29, we would like to add that tax reform has to be targeted at the right things and this is of with respect to the national context. Second, we'd like to add a reference to the 15% GDP ratio. Third, we'd like to stress the importance of improving the social contract in this context. And fourth, the opportunities for the billions of people employed in the informal sector should be underlined to integrate into the formal economy. We'd also like to add language on the important role that CSOs play in the economy and in having a kind of monitoring with respect to public finance. 29B, we'd like to add that practices in procurement are just as important as the systems. And indeed, 29C to H, this is the area where we have reservations on the language, and we will be suggesting edits as well as suggestions. So in 29D, we'd like to add language on the opportunities from taxing under taxed sectors. And this is of course, a nationally determined issue. And that we're developing taxation of informal sectors, this should also be done in a targeted way so as to protect the lowest earners in the informal sector. 29e, first, we'd like to add language stressing the sovereignty of decision taking in the area of taxation, but in that context also to stress in a horizontal way the effective taxation of all taxpayers. Third principle of guiding that international cooperation should guide the work and including reference to the work of the OECD. Paragraph 29G, we have an additional paragraph bis to add on the solidarity economy. 29G also, we would like not to just consider climate and environmental considerations, but to mainstream these, and we will add some suggestions on in terms of what options and tools are available to countries in that respect. 29L, We would add that support should be available to countries for implementing tax, international tax agreements that they enter in and add some nuance that, uh, the inter, the informal sector should be integrated in a socially equitable way. 29 J, we would like to add language that data governance plays an important part in trust of citizens and so that the way that data governance is organized should increase the trust of citizens that their rights and they are being protected in any efforts to digitalize. Thank you very much.

I thank the representative of the EU. I now give the floor to the representative of Burkina Faso, then Pakistan. Burkina Faso on behalf of the LDC group.

Thank you, co-facilitators. I'm delivering these comments on behalf of the least developed countries aligning with the remark made by G77 and China. We welcome the section on domestic public resource in the zero draft acknowledging that central role of domestic public resources in financing sustainable development while highlighting key challenges faced by LDCs. We appreciate the draft recognition of stagnation and setback in raising revenues for many LDCs amid weak global economic growth. On domestic resources mobilization remain a significant challenge for LDCs due to narrow tax bases, large informal sectors, limited administrative capacity, and illicit financial flows. The average tax to GDP ratios in LDCs is only 13% compared to the global average of 15 and 34% in OECD countries. We support the language on the need to decisive action at both national and international level to strengthen fiscal system and align them with sustainable development objective. We welcome the commitment to adopt a whole of government approach to strengthen tax system and ensuring transparency and accountability in public financial management, align budgets with sustainable development, including integrated national financing framework, scale up support for institutional, technological, and human capacity building for fiscal system and domestic resource mobilization in developing countries, provide targeted support to countries seeking to increase their tax to GDP ratio, aiming to reach at least 15%, ensure that international Tax cooperation framework are beneficial to all party with equitable and balanced representation. Fully implement the United Nation Commission against corruption and provide technical support to National Development Bank to enhance their ability to provide long-term flow cost financing for sustainable development investment. However, we believe this section could be further strengthened to address the specific needs and challenge of LDCs. So we propose the following addition and enhancement on fiscal system and alignment with sustainable development. One, stress the importance of capacity building and technical assistance for LDC to implement whole of government approach effectively. Second, emphasize the need for targeted support in harnessing digital technologies to reduce compliance costs and create approach, appropriate incentive for formalization in LDCs. On capacity support, requests prioritize and accelerate support for LDCs. to build progressive tax system that go hand in hand with approaches to spending which aim to reduce inequality. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Burkina Faso. Thank you, Your Excellency. I now recognize the representative from Pakistan and then Japan, Costa Rica. Pakistan, you have the floor.

Thank you, co-facilitators. A brief comment on the previous section before we proceed to this. Perhaps for the previous section on realizing sustainable development, the best way would be to have a single dedicated paragraph on each SDG because we need to draw the line somewhere. If we start signaling out specific targets from certain SDGs, I don't know where we would stop and the longest section might become that one. Coming to paragraphs 28 and 29, we support the general balance of paragraph 28 as you have drafted. There needs to be a balance between domestic resource mobilization and the international enabling environment. If we are to put a certain emphasis on any one aspect more, that would need to be counterbalanced with an equal emphasis on the international dimension. On paragraph 29, we feel that the paragraph and its sub actions are overly prescriptive on national, uh, measures, um, in the chapeau, we do not support the singling out of gender and climate, um, considerations, uh, we're not sure why these are singled out from, from, uh, among other SDGs. In paragraph 29b, we request clarification on when we talk about implementing minimum standards for tax expenditure reporting, which standards we are referring to. In paragraph 29f, Uh, we, uh, request the addition of, um, in line with national circumstances and priorities, um, uh, at the end of the paragraph, it is there at the beginning, uh, but it is not at the end where we have the commitment to, uh, develop and enhance methodologies and end tools. In paragraph 29e, we do support the reference to national sovereignty, but we feel that the issue of national sovereignty should not just apply to e, it should apply to all of these sub actions here from a to k. So we think that needs to be better reflected. In paragraph 29k, we request the deletion of the reference to aiming to reach ratios of at least 15%. There is no one size fits all solution to increasing tax to GDP ratios. We suggest that the COFAX explore a specific quantitative target of capacity building support to be provided rather than imposing a uniform tax target on all developing countries. For example, the proposal just made by the African group to allocate 10% of ODA to supporting tax administration could replace the reference to the 15% tax to GDP target. And lastly, in 29G, we request the deletion of the listing of options as it is overly prescriptive, and we request the addition of the principle of CBDR and efforts to eradicate poverty at the end there. Thank you.

Thank you very much. I thank the representative of Pakistan. I now recognize the representative of Japan, who will be followed by the representative from Costa Rica. Japan, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. On paragraph 29E, it is our red line to keep the wording of while respecting national sovereignty because the tax sovereignty of each country in terms of designing its domestic tax system should be respected. This principle also applies when considering taxation on high net worth individuals. On paragraph 29G, risk informed investment is important and fiscal programs should consider disaster risk. We propose including this perspective. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Japan. I now give the floor to the representative of Costa Rica, who will be followed by the representative of Palau.

Thank you very much, Chairman. Let me begin by saying that Costa Rica believes that although in paragraph 29 there's a reference to public spending, there is particular emphasis on developing There should be better balance in this section when addressing both these issues, this is, they're equally relevant and critical for ensuring sustainable development. Costa Rica believes that it is essential for all countries to have greater efficiency in public spending, and that would include, among other measures, that countries could improve their systems in order to improve the quality of tax expenditure and improve management of resources. Public spending is suggested as the most efficient and best way possible, but it's clear that countries need to put the resources where they're most needed. And from that perspective, investment in capacity building is essential from an institutional human resources and technological standpoint for developing countries. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Costa Rica, and I'll give the floor to the representative of Palau, representing EOSIS, and then Saudi Arabia. Palau, you have the floor.

Thank you, Your Excellency, and good morning to you and to all of the colleagues. EOSIS has two comments on paragraph 29. First, on 29, here we'd like to add, a reference to reducing the cost and burden of compliance and reporting, given that these remain significant challenges within SIDS. And then lastly, on paragraph 29, EOSIS proposes to add some language here on supporting developing countries to boost state capacity to effectively implement policies to strengthening public sector reforms, improving transparency and accountability. And that will be it from us on these two paragraphs. Thank you.

Thank you very much. And I'll give the floor to the representative of Saudi Arabia and then Bangladesh. Saudi Arabia, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

In paragraph 29, we cannot accept this intrusion into national sovereignties. and to their right to maintain and develop their resources that is found in the subsections. We request the deletion of the referencing to alignment with sustainable development, gender, and climate considerations in the fiscal system. We also request changing the title of the subsection, alignment of fiscal systems with sustainable development, to be fiscal systems for sustainable development. With that, we request rephrasing paragraph 29 to be, we commit to promote the achievement of sustainable development by allowing countries to implement the best policy mix for their economies. We request the deletion of 29. 29 as the implications of this need to be carefully examined, including the distortive aspects of differentiated tax rates for women owned businesses. In addition, we request the deletion of both paragraphs 29 and 29 as they enforce strict rules on subsidy policies ignore national economic priorities and overlook the complexities of energy markets and development need. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Saudi Arabia and I'll give the floor to the representative of Bangladesh who will be followed by the representative of Algeria, then Venezuela. Bangladesh. Thank you, Chair.

We would like to suggest that in paragraph 29b, The implementation of minimum standards of tax expenditure should take into account country context, hence at the end of the paragraph 29B, we would like the addition of the phrase in line with country priorities and capacities. Paragraph 29G should not limit the options of environmental and climate considerations in fiscal programming. So second sentence of para 29 should be revised as options may include, but not limited to, green budgeting, taxation and fiscal rules, carbon pricing and taxes on environmental contamination and pollution. The commitment made in para 29 should be consistent with CBDR and should take fully into account the specific needs, economic conditions and sovereign development priorities of developing countries. LDCs and climate vulnerable countries. We would also like to suggest the addition of the following part at the end of this paragraph. I quote, we recognize the energy challenges faced by the net energy importing countries and commit to provide targeted support to enhance their energy security in line with the sustainable development priorities. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Bangladesh. I now recognize the representative of Algeria, who will be followed by the representative of Venezuela. Algeria, you have the floor.

Thank you, co-chairs.

My delegation allows, aligns itself with the comments made by the G77 and China, as well as the African group. In addition, we would like to add the following in our national capacity. On domestic resource mobilization, we welcome the acknowledgement of stagnation and setbacks. This language fails to capture the profound structural constraints facing developing countries. The draft must explicitly recognize that developing countries face systemic disadvantages in mobilizing domestic resources due to historical inequities, limited tax bases, and constrained fiscal spaces. The reference to the 15% tax to GDP ratio, while important, must be accompanied by concrete international support mechanisms. We cannot be expected to reach this target while simultaneously maintaining essential social spending and development investments. We propose adding language that commits developed partners to provide specific, predictable, and adequate support to help developing countries to reach this target without compromising other development priorities. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Algeria, and I give the floor to the representative of Venezuela followed by India. Venezuela, you have the floor.

Good morning, Mr. Chairman. Thank you for giving me the floor. Venezuela endorses the statement made by G77 and China. Chairman, in this section, we would like to underscore as the main objective the efforts in our country to combat poverty and at the same time to continue to promote dialogue and cooperation so that we can move forward on the agenda for development. Mobilizing public resources which are sufficient requires non-implementation of unilateral coercive measures by some powers against sovereign countries. These unilateral measures are illegal and immoral, and they have a direct impact on the recovery of financial resources in our countries. Those funds could be used for our own development and for the development of the region in which those countries are located. Mr. Chairman, Venezuela is opposed to the language used in paragraph 28h. It refers to fossil fuel subsidies and encourages them in our countries. And our country would like to say that fossil fuels are an exceptionally economic, uh, source of energy, low cost energy is essential for human prosperity, hundreds of thousands of people suffer because they do not have access to low cost. energy, and that is why we would like this paragraph to reflect in a more balanced fashion the intention to reflect the causes of distortions in the market and its impact on the people in our country. To conclude, Chairman, Venezuela will continue to work towards a low-emission economy, but at the same time, the international community needs to bear in mind the gaps among countries and avoid widening them. Developed countries need to increase their commitments to reduce emissions and increase annual financing. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Venezuela. I now recognize the representative of India, who will be followed by the representative of Yemen. India, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Overall on the domestic public resources section, we would like to submit that this section places greater thrust on mobilizing domestic resources within developing countries rather than providing additional means to implement SDGs. It is essential to recognize that economic development remains the primary focus for the developing world. Therefore, we would like to highlight that developing countries capacity to access financial resources, design and implement public policy and financing mechanisms will depend on the mobilization, coverage, coherence and consistency of international public financing for sustainable development. In para 29, we would like to highlight that the design of progressive tax policies should be based on the principle of respect for tax sovereignty, enabling countries to tailor tax systems to their specific contexts and needs. In para 29e, we would like to highlight that the discussion on taxation of high net worth individuals is currently at a very nascent stage and will be taken up in future at the UN Framework Convention for International Tax Cooperation. At this stage, it would not be appropriate to make any specific commitment on the issues related to HNI taxation, including structure and design of the framework for such taxation. On para 29G, regarding the use of environment and climate considerations in fiscal programming, it would be appropriate to also take into account country priorities and stage of economic development through options which may also include non-pricing mechanism, support for the development of low carbon technologies, capital guarantees, and utilization of market mechanisms to enhance energy savings. In para 29H on fossil fuel subsidies, we recommend reaffirming the commitment to direct subsidies that encourage affordable and clean access to energy, resulting in a positive spillover effect while providing targeted support to the poorest and the most vulnerable. In para 29, under capacity building section, we call on the developed countries, MDBs and IOs to provide capacity building and resources to support the EMDs, especially for harnessing digital technology for improved tax collection, expenditure efficiency, and increased accountability. We will suggest edits to the language in our written statement. Thank you.

I thank the representative of India. now recognize the representative from Yemen who will be followed by the representative from Cuba. Yemen, you have the floor.

Thank you, co-chair. Yemen aligns itself with the statement delivered by the group of 77 and China and the least developed countries and offers the following specific comments. On article 28 in paragraph 28, first sentence, we request clarity on the meaning of despite notable tax revenue increase. We suggest deleting it as progress has been uneven across developing countries. In paragraph 28, second sentence, we request addition of while acknowledging varying national capacities and circumstances after decisive action at national level. In paragraph 28, third sentence, we suggest deletion of needs to be stable and as it is too general. We replace it with concrete language and international support mechanism. On article 29, In paragraph 29 introduction, we propose removing both tax and expenditure as overly specific focus instead of overall, as mentioned, physical system strengthening. In paragraph 29A, we request deletion of whole government approach as it is prescriptive and added according to national circumstances and priorities. Uh, we also require clarifications on what constitutes accountability in public financial management. In paragraph 29B, we request clarity in which transparency standards are being referenced. and through which mechanism this would be implemented. We propose adding in accordance with national legal framework. In paragraph 29c, we suggest replacing specific prescriptions on budget alignment with broader enabling language that respects national development pathways. In paragraph 29d, we propose deletion of specifying informal sectors integration measures as overly prescriptive. Instead, we focus on principle and support mechanism. In paragraph 29E, we recommend removal of detailed tax system requirements and replace it with language emphasizing national ownership and international support. In paragraph 29F, uh, we suggest adding in, in line with national circumstances and, uh, capabilities after gender responsive budgeting reference. In paragraph 29G, we request deletion of specific environmental physical measures listing and to add reference as we agree with Pakistan to CBDR principles and poverty reduction priorities. In paragraph 29H, we support general commitment but need addition while respecting national policy space. In paragraph 29I, We propose strengthening language on concrete international support for capacity building rather than just listing requirement. In paragraph 29J, we suggest removing specific digital requirements and focus instead on comprehensive technology support framework. In paragraph 29K, we request deletion of reference to 15% tax to GDP ratio target, and we suggest focusing on measurable international support for capacity building and agree with Pakistan on this. Additionally, we support the.

I thank the representative from Yemen. I'm sure we'll be able to get your detailed submission in writing. I now recognize the representative from Cuba, who will be followed by representatives from Tuvalu and then Canada. Cuba, you have the floor.

Ambassador, good morning, almost afternoon, colleagues. Well, my delegation aligns, of course, with the comments already made by G77 and EOSIS. I would like to offer some comments in national capacity, the first of them being that we wholeheartedly support the comment made by my brother from Venezuela on the severe impact of UCMs on the fiscal capacity and the financial capacity of affected targeted countries. In paragraph 28, I would have to say that we welcome the inclusion in this paragraph of the reference to the role of the international environment, as we believe it is fundamental for realising the full potential of domestic public policy and resources. In paragraph 29h, while we wholeheartedly support the essence of the paragraph, coming from a third committee perspective and a gender expert perspective, Uh, I would revise the paragraph because I think I can see a couple of, of wording there that are going to be, uh, a pain, uh, in our heads, um, so perhaps what we need to do is to say clearly that we commit to using budgeting and taxation. to tackle the problems, the particular problems faced by women and girls, because that is the essence of, of H. But of course, we would leave it to there, just a suggestion. We support the paragraph as it is, but I can already see and expect a couple of very long nights over this, uh, specific wording, as you have already heard from other colleagues. In paragraph G, 29G, any reference to climate measures must include an ex- an explicit reference to, to the CBDR, Similarly, it must be ensured that such measures do not exacerbate economic inequalities or constitute a barrier to development. In that regard, we propose in 29, uh, uh, uh, to add after national circumstances and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities in the context of sustainable development and efforts to eradicate poverty. We also propose to delete the options listed as it seems prescriptive to us, I mean in 29g. And finally, in h, we would propose to add at the end of the paragraph and ensuring the full implementation of the committed, commitments related to development. Thank you, Ambassador.

I thank the representative of Cuba. And now, I'll give the floor to the representative of Tuvalu, who will be followed by the representative of Canada. Tuvalu, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Given this is the first time for Tuvalu to take the floor, we extend our sincere thanks to the co-facilitators for their leadership and commitment in developing this zero draft outcome document. This provides a solid foundation for our discussions. Tuvalu aligns itself with position presented by AOSIS, and we would like to add a few comments in relation to our national capacity. On paragraph 28, Tuvalu acknowledges the importance of domestic resource mobilization to support sustainable development, but for states such as Tuvalu, it is not as simple as just enhancing existing system. Our fiscal realities are constrained by narrow endowments of natural resources, vulnerability to external shocks, and limited capacity. This economies of scale undermines tax collection and the high cost of living driven by isolation from market and dependency on import leaves little room for tax raises. We need a global framework that recognizes this constraint and provide targeted support, not just generalized calls for reform. Paragraph 29A and B, transparency and accountability essential, but we also need international cooperation to combat the tax evasion and illicit financial flows that drain our resources. We need innovative solution, not just traditional tax reforms to ensure sustainable financing for development needs. 29D, our economies are not just informal, they are often based on subsistence livelihood and vulnerable sectors. We need tailored solution, not one-size-fits-all policies. 29e, we support progressive taxation, but it must consider our limited tax base, high cost of living, and the need to avoid overburdening our citizens. 29d, environmental taxes are promising, but must not disproportionately affect our vulnerable population. We need support to explore innovative financing mechanisms like global carbon tax, not just encouragement to broaden existing tax bases. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Tuvalu and now give the floor to the representative of Canada to be followed by the representative of the Russian Federation. Canada.

Thank you, Chair. Canada is pleased to see the link between digitalization, digital public expenditure, and revenue mobilization outlined in 29D. We are generally supportive of the text in 29E, but suggest that progressivity and efficiency across fiscal systems be replaced with progressivity and efficiency of domestic tax systems, which more accurately reflects principles recognized in international taxation. Canada will submit suggestions for textual edits to 29F, which seek to expand gender-responsive budgeting to include tracking and to remove the caveats that follow. These edits serve to update the text to better reflect the AAA and CSW 68 agreed conclusions, both of which use the term gender-responsive budgeting and tracking without caveats. We feel this is important because it emphasizes not only the gender responsive allocation of resources, but also the monitoring and evaluation of how those resources are spent and their impact. Furthermore, the AAA makes this commitment clear and without caveats, including a caveat now, 10 years later, weakens the text and would represent a rollback in language. We are fully supportive of the text in 29G and would like to see it retained in the outcome document. Canada will submit proposals for alternate text for 29H, but are supportive of phasing out and rationalizing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies over the medium term in principle. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Canada. I now give the floor to the representative of the Russian Federation, to be followed by the representative of Peru. Russia, you have the floor.

Thank you, Madam facilitator. first of all we would like to note that our detailed proposals will be submitted subsequently for the time being we would like to propose the following comments we believe that paragraph twenty nine should be more realistic and more focused towards achieving sustainable growth in developing states. In particular, budgeting and taxation, taking into account gender factors, and also the abandonment of fossil fuel subsidies for developing states, in our point of view, are contentious and need more consideration. The application of this taxation could seriously undermine economic growth in developing countries and could also increase inflation pressure affecting the poorest strata of the population. At the very least, those initiatives need to go hand in hand with precise and strict obligations for the allocation of additional financing. Therefore, we propose removing the wording Many fiscal systems are yet to take gender and climate considerations into account. Then, in low income countries, the introduction of progressive taxation without the necessary oversight and control could disproportionately affect households with low incomes and small businesses and would only increase inequality. we would also like to note that on the whole progressive taxation is not the best driver of economic activity. we propose removing the reference to progressive taxation. twenty nine a we believe that the whole of government approach should also be applied to state investments and core capital thus the strengthening of the tax system can be achieved by constant consultation with entrepreneurs, business persons and their organisations, and also by simplifying the tax system. 29h. The current wording of this paragraph is not acceptable because it does not sufficiently take into account measures and the consensus of the United Arab Emirates, where the transition from fossil fuels is accompanied by other provisions. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the Russian Federation, and I now give the floor to the representative of Peru, to be followed by the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Peru, please.

As.

This is the first time I'm speaking, I'd like to begin by thanking you, Madam Chairman, and the other co-facilitators for this draft. It makes it possible for us to have solid discussions here. In my national capacity, I'd like to refer specifically to para 29e when it refers to promoting and strengthening taxation of high net worth individuals supported by international cooperation while respecting national sovereignty 29e we just wonder how that would be implemented in particular in view of the fact that this is not an issue that is part of the two protocols which led up to these guidelines thank you thank you.

The representative of peru i now give the floor to the representative of the islamic republic of iran be followed by the representative of Argentina. Iran, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. This delegation aligns itself with the comments delivered by Angola on behalf of G77 and China. Allow us to add the following in our national capacity. In paragraph 29, we do not support the singling out of gender and climate considerations. In paragraph 29f, we suggest the addition of in line with national circumstances and priorities. In paragraph 29g, we request the deletion of the listing of options. We also request the addition of the principle of CBDR and efforts to eradicate poverty. In paragraph 29h, we do not support the singling out of fossil fuel subsidies and request for deletion of that. Finally, in paragraph 29k, we suggest exploring a specific quantitative target of capacity building support to be provided. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the representative of Iran and now give the floor to the representative of Argentina to be followed by the representative of China. Argentina, please.

Thank you very much, co-facilitator. Under this section, some of the actions mentioned in the document here run counter to the Argentine tax policy, so we will not be in a position to go along with them. To make an effective use of time, we'll submit those in writing, but I did want to make our position known. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Argentina and now give the floor to the representative of China to be followed by the representative of Colombia. China, please.

Thank you, Madam Chair. China believes domestic resource mobilization should to the national ownership principle, policies in this area should align with national conditions and development strategies, free from excessive external interference or a one-size-fits-all approach. That said, domestic resources mobilization hinges on a favorable environment for international development cooperation.

It is essential to strengthen collaboration between national governments and international financial institutions to jointly.

Explore new models of development financing cooperation. Paragraph 29a.

Tax, um, expended, uh, 29B, tax expenditures are part and parcel of budget.

Management given the differences in national circumstances and foundations, it is not appropriate to enforce implementation of minimal standards for tax expenditure reporting, we therefore suggest deleting the last sentence.

Second, in 29D, emerging technologies are broad in scope and emphasis shouldn't be placed on one single concept.

Which could lead to overgeneralization.

Third, In 29F, countries should, in light of their national conditions and priorities, leverage multiple policy tools, including taxation, to promote national development and gender equality. The phrase designing, monitoring, and evaluating tax and budget policies with a gender.

Perspective fails to embody such principle, and we suggest deleting it.

We also suggest changing promote gender-responsive budgeting and gender-responsive taxation into budgeting and taxation that promote gender equality. Last, in 29K, countries have different stages of development and national conditions.

And vary widely in their macro tax burden levels.

There is no consensus on a standard macro tax burden level. It is not advisable to set a standard floor. Therefore, we suggest deleting the language after tax to GDP ratios in the first line. Thank you.

I thank the representative of China and now give the floor to the representative of Colombia, to be followed by the representative of Australia. Colombia.

Thank you, Chair. On paragraph 28, Colombia reaffirms the central role of domestic public resources in financing sustainable development. However, fiscal sustainability must extend beyond revenue generation, prioritising progressive taxation systems that promote equity and inclusivity. To reinforce this perspective, we propose integrating an explicit reference to guaranteeing tax progressiveness. We strongly support this section, I mean the 29 section, and the formulation to align fiscal systems to sustainable development. Regarding paragraph 29, literal D, Colombia acknowledged the importance of broadening the tax base and integrating the informal sector into the formal economy. We welcome and request the retention to the reference to progressivity in tax policies. However, achieving sustainable fiscal compliance requires not only technological advancement but also behavioral shift among taxpayers. Strengthening tax moral and promoting voluntary compliance initiatives are crucial for enhancing revenue collection while fostering public trust institutions. We strongly support the content in letter 29E on high net worth individuals and 29F on gender responsive budgeting and gender responsive taxations. Both measures are key to ensure tax policies bridge economic and social inequalities. On letter G, Colombia recognizes the urgency of integrating climate and environmental considerations into fiscal planning. Climate-related events are intensifying fiscal pressures, therefore the action must reflect the need to incorporate climate risk into national fiscal frameworks. Effective strategies should combine carbon pricing and environmental incentives, ensuring an articulated and coherent approach. To strengthen this section, Colombia will submit a written proposal modifying its wording. For literal AAI, Colombia underscores the importance of reinforcing fiscal systems and domestic resources mobilization in developing countries. However, these efforts must not only focus on revenue collection, but also on ensuring progressive and equitable fiscal policies that reduce inequalities and enhance social cohesion. We propose the explicit inclusion of progressiveness in fiscal policy considerations. On literal J, Colombia highlights the necessity of international cooperation in supporting the digital transformation of tax administrations, equitable access to technology, knowledge and best practices is crucial for brid- to bridging digital divides and preventing further disparity on implementation costs among developing countries.

And I thank you. Now giving the floor to the representative of Australia to be followed by the representative of Indonesia. Australia, please.

Thank you, Chair. Regarding para 28, we would like to see a commitment to strengthening domestic public resources and renewing our commitment to allocate these resources so that no one is left behind. We want to highlight the self-reinforcing nexus between domestic resource mobilization and financing to strengthen social protection systems. We encourage the co-facilitators to clearly define public development banks, national development banks, and multilateral development banks in the outcome document. This ambiguity makes it unclear which financial institution is being asked to respond. This paragraph can be strengthened by including language that reinforces that each country has primary responsibility for its own economic and social development and that the role of national policies and development strategies cannot be overemphasized. Regarding para 29A, we would propose replacing the word commit with encourage, acknowledging countries' sovereign right to tax policy. 29B, Australia has a strong system for ensuring transparency and oversight of the management and reporting of tax expenditures. We suggest replacing the word commit with encourage, recognising countries' legal and structural constraints that must be considered. With paragraph 29E, we believe the language could be amended to ultra-high net worth individuals in line with the G20 Leaders Declaration language and the agreed Rio Declaration on international tax. Additionally, we propose the removal of the word commit and promoting and strengthening and propose alternative wording such as we acknowledge the importance of ensuring progressivity and efficiency as well as ensuring appropriate taxation of ultra-high net worth individuals. Lastly, in para 29H, Australia reaffirms our commitment to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, which we've held since 2009. We prefer to stick to previously agreed language of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies and seek removal of and harmful. Any changes to already pre-agreed language will necessitate consultation and further negotiation, hampering the progress of this forum and the very likely result in dilution of the commitment. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Australia and now give the floor to the representative of Indonesia, to be followed by the representative of Switzerland. Indonesia.

Thank you, Chair. Our comments on paragraph 29h, we wish to request a more balanced approach by adding some provisions in this paragraph in which rationalizing the fossil fuel subsidies also needs to ensure a just energy transition and shall not exacerbate energy poverty. While on paragraph 29m, we welcome the proposal that recognize the importance of developing municipal bond markets to strengthen subnational finance. It is our view that this instrument plays a critical role to support local development. In this connection, we need to inject reference on the importance of technical assistance, capacity building and enhanced policy alignment between local and nationals to ensure that subnational financing mechanisms contribute more effectively to national development priorities. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Indonesia and now give the floor to the representative of Switzerland to be followed by the representative of Paraguay. Switzerland, please.

Thank you, Chair. Switzerland supports the strong and actionable language on domestic public resources in paragraph 28 and 29.

However, for consistency reasons, we suggest deleting the term corruption.

In the second last sentence of paragraph twenty eight in fact the term illicit financial flows includes among others financial flows stemming from corruption.

This is agreed language and has been the.

Understanding so far especially in the context of the resolution on iff thank you.

I thank the representative of Switzerland. Now giving the floor to the representative of Paraguay, to be followed by the representative of Sierra Leone. Paraguay, please.

Thank you, co-facilitator. In this section, we note the reference to the commitment to align budgets with sustainable development. as well as promoting the use of environmental and climate considerations in fiscal programming, mentioned as options for green budgeting, carbon pricing, and taxes on environmental contamination. I would like to emphasize the importance of these and other measures duly taking account of different national capacities, priorities, and circumstances. while recognising the structural limits of developing countries, in particular countries in special situations. Similarly, my delegation believes that, referring to subsidies, in doing that we should include all subsidies, in particular agricultural subsidies. The reform for substantial and progressive reduction in agricultural subsidies is one of the main pending issues for the WTO, and the removal of these subsidies would not only allow for more efficient use of resources, but it would put an end to over exploitation of natural resources and the environmental damage that these subsidies lead to. Finally, my delegation believes it would be better to avoid using excessively prescriptive language. on issues related to tax and economic policy so that we do not undermine the expertise which falls exclusively to domestic jurisdictions of states. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Paraguay and now give the floor to the representative of Sierra Leone to be followed by the representative of South Africa. Sierra Leone.

My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by Iraq on behalf of G77 and China. Ghana on behalf of the African group, and Burkina Faso on behalf of the LDC. I would like to make the following remarks in my national capacity. We warmly welcome the zero draft and the thematic focus on domestic public resource. The text highlights challenges faced by developing countries, immobilizing revenues amid geopolitical divide and weak global economic growth. We appreciate the language that calls for strengthening physical system, enhance international cooperation and public development banks in mobilizing investment towards the SDGs and a holistic approach in strengthening tax system. We aim to strengthen this section by enhancing capacity building and assistance for developing countries. This include accelerating domestic resource mobilization, improving global tax cooperation, preventing illicit financial flows and money laundering, and providing technical assistance to establish development banks for sustainable development towards achieving the SDG. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Sierra Leone. Now give the floor to the representative of South Africa to be followed by the representative of Fiji. South Africa, please.

Thank you, Ambassador. And if I may, I'd like to just take a minute. to thank you and your co-facilitators very much for using this format to launch our negotiations. The interest in and diversity of voices that we're hearing is really striking. And I think it reflects a very widespread feeling as articulated by the DSG yesterday that if we don't act now to rescue the SDGs, I mean, that this is our last chance. And in view of the number of delegations wanting to make a contribution, I'll truncate what I've been asked to say to the bare minimum. So on 29C, we just wanted to point out that the, it would be important to reflect that the interagency task force, the IATF guidance that has been developed for operationalizing the INFFs, needs to be institutionalized so that developing countries can benefit from the tools and guidance frameworks to better scope financing needs, risk assessments, the financing landscape, et cetera. On paragraph 29 on gender responsive budgeting and taxation, you have that language has South Africa's full support. On 29i, we just note that the IMF World Bank Group Domestic Resource Mobilization Initiative has been launched. It needs support and we think perhaps it could be referenced as playing a valuable role in the implementation of this paragraph. And then finally, we think that 29k is one of the most impactful actions in this document. All kinds of ills related with development directly correlated with low tax to GDP ratios such as, uh, debt, et cetera, and, uh, we note that the, the, the way it's, uh, being crafted, it's not prescriptive. Uh, so we fully support that paragraph, I, I also note that African ministers of finance already adopted this 15% tax to GDP ratio target in 2018, and, and furthermore that this is why, uh, uh, Africa called for, uh, a higher, uh, minimum global tax, uh, pillar two of the OECD, because we thought that 15% was actually too low, thank you very much.

I thank the representative of South Africa and now give the floor to the representative of Fiji to be followed by the representative of Nicaragua. Fiji, please.

Thank you, co-chairs. We align our interventions with that of G77 and China and IOSIS. Fiji has a few comments in our national capacity. First, on the recognition of domestic public resources, which is important given its notable contributions in funding the SDGs. With this it's important to also recognize and mention regional efforts, which is missing, that should complement the national and international efforts in preventing and combating illicit financial flows and corruption. Secondly, the subheading which reads capacity support under paragraph 29 before section I, having reflected on the items listed and we suggest to include the title to read as technical assistance and capacity support to be reflective of the elements as listed and to be aligned with the needs gaps of the countries. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Fiji and now give the floor to the representative of Nicaragua to be followed by the representative of the United States. Nicaragua, please.

Thank you once again, distinguished ambassador. Paragraph 29. to avoid a negative impact. We recognize that we need to refer to CPDR to eradicate poverty. This is one of the priorities for developing countries. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Nicaragua and now give the floor to the representative of the United States to be followed by the representative of Iceland. United States, please.

Thank you.

We will have line edits in the next round.

But for now, on paragraph 28, we want to highlight longstanding opposition to the vague term illicit financial flows.

And suggest replacing it with something more specific, such as tax evasion and other crimes that contribute to the generation of illicit finance.

We are also unsure of.

The link between tax revenue and public development banks mobilizing investment and suggest separating these concepts or making the link more clear.

On the paragraph 29 sub-items, we believe the recommendations are too specific for a blanket commitment from member states.

As they may not all be appropriate for all states, and suggest replacing the verb commit with something softer. We additionally reserve on the environmental and climate language here.

Thank you.

I thank the representative of the United States and now give the floor to the representative of Iceland to be followed by the representative of the Philippines. Iceland, please.

Thank you, Chair. We welcome the strong language on domestic resource mobilization, the strengthening of fiscal systems and fighting tax avoidance. On 29e, we would like to highlight the importance that tax policies are not only progressive, but also pro-poor and conducive to reducing inequality. We welcome the mention in section k of aiming to reach tax to GDP ratios of at least 15%, which indicates a baseline which reflects an inflection point for striking a balance between spending needs and fiscal stability. Providing targeted support to countries seeking to increase their tax to GDP ratio is an important measure. We also particularly welcome the section L and M on sub national finance and the emphasis to strengthen local authorities, including through municipal bond markets. We suggest to add a clear link to capacity building in this regard.

Finally.

We emphasise the importance of the reference in section F to gender responsive budgeting and gender responsive taxation without caveats. Thank you.

I thank the representative of iceland and now give the floor to the representative of the philippines to be followed by the representative of brazil the philippines please.

Thank you madam co facilitator just one point on paragraph twenty nine j. We appreciate the focus on enhancing capacity support for country-led efforts to modernize revenue administration in paragraph 29J. However, like the G77 and China, we echo the concern that subparagraph J falls short in providing concrete actionable measures to address the capacity gaps hindering many developing countries. While it identifies what needs To be done, it fails to specify how developing countries will be supported in achieving these goals. Developing countries often lack the technical expertise, financial resources and infrastructure necessary to effectively implement modernization efforts. Therefore, practical measures to address this may include targeted financial assistance or specific funding mechanisms needed to support investments in IT infrastructure, technical expertise and training, and knowledge sharing. The Philippines urges that the outcome document adopt a more practical and supportive approach to capacity building, ensuring that developing countries have the necessary tools and resources to effectively modernize their revenue administrations and mobilize domestic resources for Thank you.

I thank the representative of the Philippines and now give the floor to the representative of Brazil to be followed by the representative of the Republic of Korea. Brazil, please.

Thank you, Chair. I'd like to encourage to emphasize the importance of item E in para 29. and the importance of the progressivity including as a means to reduce inequality. So language which aims to dilute this text would not be acceptable to us, to my delegation, as well as reducing the scope to the ultra high net worth individuals. The ultra high net worth individuals are included in the high net worth individuals. So we're seeking to include the tax base and not to reduce it. So our focus here would be to maintain this language as is. We would also suggest including an additional para, perhaps an e bis on para 29 with an item on expanding social protection coverage through national targets. This strategy is essential for eradicating poverty and hunger, reducing inequalities, formalizing economies, building climate resilience, fostering public support for climate action, and advancing gender equality. On letter F, we would suggest including the language policy of the gender perspective that is intersectional and inclusive of all women. So those would be our comments for this item. And again, The focus on domestic resource mobilisation needs to allow developing countries to tax. The discussions in the tax convention relate to this and you keep focusing on domestic tax mobilisation. There must be a taxable base for developing countries, so this item is crucial to us. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Brazil and now give the floor to the representative of the Republic of Korea, to be followed by the representative of the United Kingdom. Korea, please.

Thank you, co-facilitator. The discussion on taxation of high net worth individuals is still in early stage and there is a lack of international discourse on concrete implementation measures. Therefore, we hope that the content regarding the taxation of high net worth individuals in the para E is reconsidered. With regard to paragraph L and M, We may think about the subnational finance of intermediary cities, particularly in the context of SDG localization. As we refine the zero draft, we may consider explicitly recognizing the need for tailored financial mechanisms and capacity building support for intermediary cities. It is because these cities serve as vital economic and service hub, yet they often face structural barriers in accessing financing. Strengthening intermediary cities financial autonomy will accelerate inclusive growth and SDG localization, ultimately bridging the urban rural divide. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Republic of Korea and now give the floor to the representative of the United Kingdom to be followed by the representative of Burkina Faso. UK please.

Thank you very much. On paragraph 28, we think that it's important to also mention beneficial ownership here as a key means to prevent and combat illicit financial flows, corruption and achieve mobilization of public resources. On 29a, we also need to name public financial management systems alongside those already named. On b, we think we need to include a reference to enhancing oversight, implementing transparent procurement systems and strengthened resourced independent and professional supreme audit institutions and parliamentary oversight, especially public accounts committees and other accountability bodies. On g, We believe this paragraph could be strengthened by referencing aligning financial flows with the Paris Agreement and coming Montreal global biodiversity framework. We should phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies and repurpose subsidies to support delivery of environmental benefits. We would like to show our strong support for paragraph 29F as currently drafted. On 29H, we should focus on the global biodiversity framework target 18 and its wording on reducing subsidies harmful for biodiversity. In addition to the existing paragraphs, we suggest a new action-oriented paragraph under the heading of the 29 section to read, we encourage introducing or increasing taxes on tobacco, sugar-sweetened beverages, and alcohol in alignment with national contexts, as a non-distortionary tax source with major potential to both increase domestic revenue and reduce the risk factors of non-communicable diseases, which is the fastest growing driver of ill health globally. It would end there. This action will raise revenue and will improve debt sustainability without creating unwanted economic distortions. These taxes are relatively easy to implement and reduce major drivers of ill health and thus lower health expenditure and are expected to raise $3.7 trillion globally over the first five years of implementation. This will include $2.1 trillion in low and middle income countries. Thank you so much.

I thank the representative of the United Kingdom and now give the floor to the representative of Burkina Faso to be followed by the representative of Singapore. Burkina Faso please.

Thank you, Madam Co facilitator. Burkina Faso aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the G77 and China and the LDCs. We commend the excellent work of the co facilitators on the zero draft of the document for better financing for sustainable development, which is a promising basis that could nevertheless be strengthened to fully reflect the realities and priorities of developing countries. We firmly support the position of the G77 regarding the need for strengthened international support for institutional capacity building. However, we stress the fact that aligning tax systems with sustainable development, as mentioned in paragraph 29, must absolutely take into account the particular situation of situations in a situation of fragility. In this regard, We ask that security and humanitarian challenges require considerable budgetary flexibility and that reforms be carried out in states in order to maintain their ability to respond to emergencies while also pursuing sustainable development. Priority areas such as education, health and public goods must be protected. Tax sovereignty must be protected in order to maintain room for manoeuvre in emergency response. We therefore propose the following additions include specific provisions for countries faced with multidimensional challenges, establish flexible frameworks that reconcile development goals and the need to respond to emergencies; and lastly, make sure that alignment with sustainable development goals preserves the necessary fiscal space. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Burkina Faso. I will now give the floor to the representative of Singapore, to be followed by the representative of Libya. Singapore, please.

Thank you, Ambassador. We'd like to thank the co-facilitators for these good paragraphs, which are an excellent basis for discussion.

And we appreciate that they are detailed.

And action and implementation oriented, which we have heard many delegations call for in this document. So a degree of prescription is welcome to kickstart our discussions on what is viable, suitable.

And appropriate for our countries.

On paragraph 29 we would like to propose replacing the phrase implement minimum standards with share best practices for tax expenditure reporting. This is because different jurisdictions use tax expenditures for many different reasons with varying economic context, policy goals and conditions required for taxpayers to qualify for benefits. It would therefore perhaps be more appropriate for best practices to be shared so that jurisdictions can learn from them and determine for themselves how best to employ them into account the context and idiosyncrasies of each specific jurisdiction. On paragraph 29, we note the use of appropriate incentives. We propose adding "providing the" before appropriate incentives for clarity, unless the intention is to reduce these incentives, in which case we would appreciate greater clarification on how reducing them would relate to broadening the tax base.

And help integrate the informal sector into the formal economy.

Thank you very much.

I thank the representative of Singapore and now give the floor to the representative of Libya to be followed by the representative of the Dominican Republic. Libya, please.

Thank you, Madam Chair. First of all, we align ourselves with the statement by Iraq on behalf of the G77 and China and the statement of Ghana on behalf of the African group concerning this section. And we make these comments in our national capacity. My delegation aligns itself with what Iran and Saudi Arabia said concerning paragraph 29 as regards the cancelling of climate and environmental considerations. We also do not support the use of gender approach in paragraph 29g and we stress the importance of national considerations in that paragraph. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Libya and now give the floor to the representative of the Dominican Republic to be followed by the representative of Cameroon. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

We welcome the statement made by the G77 and China. We would like to make a proposal in our national capacity in paragraph 29 on aligning tax systems with sustainable development, we propose adding another point on simplifying the national tax structures in such a way that this will facilitate monitoring and be an incentive for task investment. Thank you very much.

I thank the representative of the Dominican Republic and now give the floor to the representative of Cameroon to be followed by the representative of the Holy See. Cameroon, please.

Thank you, Chair.

Regarding the tax-related issues applied to sustainable development, We are of the opinion that it is important to address expanded producer responsibility. As you know, in accordance with this, every producer must ensure the management of their product until the end of its life cycle. In countries of the north, taxes are applied to that end, but for some of those products, they reach the end of their life cycle in countries in the south and the recyclers in countries in the south cannot benefit from the resources stemming from those taxes. Cameroon therefore suggests strengthening tax cooperation on that subject between countries of the north and countries of the south so that the countries of the south can benefit from them. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Cameroon and now give the floor to the representative of the Holy See to be followed by the representative of the International Chambers of Commerce. Holy See, please.

Thank you, Madam co-facilitator. In the interest of time, I'll just make two very brief comments on this cluster. In paragraph 29, we don't feel that it's appropriate to single out only two fiscal systems considerations and as such would ask for the deletion of the reference to gender and climate considerations. with regards to twenty nine f we will present more concrete language in the line by line negotiations but would take this opportunity today to stress the importance of retaining here in line with countries' national strategies priorities and circumstances.

I thank the representative of the Holy See and now give the floor to the representative of the International Chamber of Commerce to be followed by the representative of Tax Justice Network Africa and Society for International Development. ICC, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. On behalf of the International Chamber of Commerce, we appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on the chapter of the zero draft concerning domestic public resources and more specifically paragraph 28 and 29. In this intervention, I will focus on paragraph 29. Regarding the formalization of the informal economy, we appreciate and welcome the emphasis on broadening the tax base by integrating informal sector into the formal economy, as indicated in paragraph 29D. Multinational businesses with robust governance procedures, external audits and regulatory obligations, as well as small and medium enterprises, compliant with established rules and standards, have nothing to fear from clearly defined tax rules. However, they are disadvantaged by the informal economy, which operates outside the tax system and regulatory framework. This informal sector suppresses economic growth, undermines fair competition, negatively impacts wages, health and safety, ultimately hindering greater equality and achieving sustainable development goals. Continued efforts to formalize the informal economy can encourage investment in skills and technology and on social protection and promote financial inclusion while ensuring that established and regulated businesses are not unduly burdened with additional taxes or administrative burdens. Furthermore, we welcome the focus on budget transparency, accountability and efficiency as outlined in paragraph 29a and 29b. For taxpayers who contribute to the public spending through their tax payments, it is crucial and important to understand how their contribution concretely are utilized to support societal improvement. Finally, on paragraph 29g, while we appreciate reference to carbon pricing, we would welcome a stronger emphasis on the potential of robust, well-functioning and high integrity carbon markets in this section. and successful operationalization of carbon markets under the Paris Agreement. Effectively and smartly designed carbon pricing is an essential tool as part of a comprehensive policy package that can help countries implement their existing commitments and has the potential to enhance overall ambition in mitigation and adaptation efforts, transfer technology, and deliver finance flows where most needed. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the ICC and I now give the floor to the representative of Tax Justice Network Africa and Society for International Development, to be followed by the representative of the Inclusivity Project. Tax Justice Network, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair, for the opportunity to speak. I speak on behalf of Tax Justice Network Africa and the Civil Society Financing for Development Mechanism. CSO participation has been part of the process since Monterrey until now, and we remind member states in the room that our substantive participation in all processes, including informal sessions, is key towards enhancing the transparency and accountability of this process. Um, on the substantive issues, On paragraph 29e, we underline that there should be a clear reference to addressing inequalities not only in countries, but also between countries. In this regard, we suggest including language on ensuring fair allocation of taxing rights. We also call for a specific mention of ensuring that tax systems are gender sensitive and serve to reduce gender inequalities in paragraph 29e, in addition to the language that is there in paragraph 29. Additionally, the outcome document must make it very clear that progressive taxation and reducing inequalities must be key elements of the future UN tax convention. We agree with the positions of India, Algeria and the African Group on paragraph 29K. 15% tax to GDP ratio is too prescriptive and it also increases the risk of ODA conditionalities. Capacity support must also be balanced with the need to address systemic issues. We therefore propose the replacement of this language with what was used in the terms of reference for the development of the UN tax convention, which was adopted through resolution 79-35. We take note of the concerns expressed in relation to national sovereignty in paragraph 29e. The outcome document should not be overly prescriptive to developing countries, and we would like to remind Member States that this, however, should not be used as a barrier towards international tax cooperation. Let us not water down the hard fought for positions that have been secured through the UN Tax Convention and would therefore delete, we therefore propose propose the deletion of national sovereignty. On paragraph 29G, we also support the inclusion of the principle on common but differentiated responsibility. On taxation of high net worth individuals, though this will not be an early protocol, it will still be addressed within the UN tax convention and a future protocol. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the Tax Justice Network and now give the floor to the representative of the Inclusivity Project to be followed by the representative of Christian Aid. But Inclusivity Project, you have the floor.

Distinguished Chair, Excellencies and esteemed delegates, I'm David representing the Asia Adult Rights Forum.

We are part of the Inclusivity Project, a member of the NGO Committee on Financing for Development.

I'm pleased to share this statement on behalf of all these entities.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide reflections on the zero draft outcome document.

Regarding the paragraph 29, we agree that public spending is often hampered by opacity.

Inefficiency, and fiscal constraints, and that many fiscal systems are yet to take gender and climate considerations into the account. We would also like to draw your attention to the systems of stratification based on social hierarchies.

Which also acts as barriers to efficient public spending, leaving the affected communities behind.

In that regard, we propose the inclusion of text that reflects the Addis Ababa.

Action Agenda's stronger commitment to promoting social inclusion in domestic policies, the promotion and the enforcement of non-discriminatory laws social infrastructure and policies for.

Sustainable development, enabling women's full participation and equal in the economy and ensuring their equal access to the decision making.

Process and leadership.

Staying with the theme of equity in fiscal systems.

With regards to paragraph 29G, we suggest text that strengthens the justice focus on fiscal policies, ensuring carbon pricing and taxation do not burden vulnerable population disproportionately. In that regard, we propose adding to paragraph 29 implementation of climate responsive taxation frameworks that ensure polluters pay while prioritizing equity and equality, ensuring that these measures do not disproportionately impact lower income and historically marginalized communities.

I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Inclusivity Project and now give the floor to the representative of Christian Aid. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Ummahida with Christian Aid speaking on behalf of civil society FFD mechanism. So in relation to paragraph 28, the zero draft rightly underscored the role of domestic public resources in achieving the SDGs. And mobilizing maximum available resources to meet human rights obligation of states, however, its emphasis on international cooperation remains inadequate, merely limited to prescriptive measures. In paragraph 29, we must recognize that persistent tax evasion avoidance by large corporations and high net worth individuals have significantly undermined the capacity of global south countries to secure the fiscal space necessary for critical public services, including care, education, healthcare, sanitation, water, and reproductive and sexual health. Fiscal policies, procurement policies, and related public framework must adopt a human right based and gender responsive approaches to ensure equitable redistribution of resources. The focus of the existing text remains ambiguous, particularly in terms of inclusivity, participatory governments and progressive taxation. When applied without exemption, taxes such as VAT, often prescribed as a part of fiscal austerity packages and loan conditionalities by IFIs, are inherently regressive as women generally receive less pay than men for work on equal value. Regressive taxes have a gender bias that disproportionately disadvantageous women, especially poor and low income women who are disproportionately affected by certain exemptions and zero ratings because they have different consumption baskets to men. These policies are harmful and should be removed while expanding the role of greater international tax cooperation, eliminating… illicit financial flows and promoting progressive tax policies to raise more taxes from high income, wealth and large corporations instead. As feminists, we call on FFD4 delegates to acknowledge and support the ongoing process of the UN Framework Convention and tax that is progressive, ecologically just, gender equitable and firmly grounded in human rights principles and assures a national progressive tax system that enables the fair and sufficient mobilization of internal resources to finance the human rights and needs of These resources should include financing for mitigation and adaptation to climate change, which disproportionately affect women. We urge member states to actively endorse the process to foster equity both within and among nations, including the equitable distribution of taxing rights between countries, following the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities. FF4 must lay the foundation for meaningful transformation by advocating for a robust decolonial, feminist, ecological, and feminist and human right-based fiscal system that advances women's economic empowerment and human rights liberation. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Christian Aid, who was the last speaker on paragraphs 28 and 29. We need to press on, so I will ask the Secretariat to put paragraphs 30 to 32 on the screen. You all know how to press the button. And let's just see how much we get done before lunch. And do let us know, I mean, I think I do recognize some of the groups, and I will start with Angola on behalf of G77 or Africa? G77. G77. You have the floor, and then we will rearrange a little bit here for the groups. I think Ghana, you are speaking on behalf of the Africa group. So Angola, here you go.

Yes, thank you, Madam co-facilitator, indeed, on behalf of the G77.

So the group appreciates the focus on reducing IFF and promoting fiscal transparency as outlined in the paragraph 31.

Combating tax evasion and corruption is fundamental to ensuring that domestic financial resources are effectively mobilized for development.

We also acknowledge the emphasis on strengthening national development banks mentioned in paragraph 32, recognizing their critical role in driving sustainable investments and supporting national development strategies. However, we note that the draft provides only a cursory mention of mechanisms to catalyze private investments, particularly in paragraph 30.

The group believes that robust.

Innovate framework are needed to attract and sustain private sector engagement in development financing. Public-private partnership, blended finance strategies, and incentives for sustainable investment should be more explicitly addressed to ensure that private resources effectively complement domestic public resources. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Group of 77 and I now give the floor to the representative of Ghana on behalf of the Africa Group, to be followed by the representative of the European Union. Ghana, please.

Thank you, co-facilitator. Paragraph 30 should be strengthened to support the work of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee for the UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation. In this regard, the paragraph should be amended as follows we will continue to engage constructively and support the negotiations of the United Nations Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation. On paragraph 30f, the Group proposes strengthening the language to include actionable recommendations on enhancing beneficial ownership and transparency through the establishment of a beneficial ownership registry of legal persons and legal arrangements, which would further curb IFFs and facilitate the domestic resource mobilization and recovery of stolen assets. We reaffirm our call to avoid listing of the work of regional tax platforms in paragraph 30. In this regard, we propose paragraph 30G remains broad in scope, avoiding a prescriptive or overly detailed listing of specific examples. References to the Financial Action Task Force in paragraph 31F should be deleted. The Financial Action Task Force does not allow all developing countries to participate on an equal footing. Several developing countries have flagged concerns about the unfair blacklisting of developing countries for not following FATF standards. While we generally support the section on illicit financial flows, it should be strengthened to include commitment on acts as the global community to eliminate secrecy jurisdictions, introduce transparency in financial transfer, and crack down on money laundering. We also request the addition of a new paragraph on 31 calling for all stakeholders to measure and report on the implementation of SDG 16.4.1 on illicit financial flows and measures taken to significantly reduce IFF flows, strengthen recovery and return of stolen assets, and combat all forms of organized crime. on paragraph thirty two we appreciate the section on national development banks but request the addition of language specifically calling for international financial assistance to capitalise ndbs so that they can critically enable institutions to scale up or establish where they do not exist.

I thank the representative of Ghana on behalf of the Africa Group. I now give the floor to the representative of the European Union, to be followed by the representative of Palau on behalf of EOSIS. EU, you have the floor.

Thank you, Your Excellency. I will speed through some comments and send some more detailed comments in writing. In paragraph 30, and specifically 30a, We need to reference the BEPS OECD process and explicitly mention the need to avoid duplication. We have some concerns in this section about preempting the INC and some of our comments will relate to deletions to avoid that. And we should refrain from giving the impression that progress in international taxation over the last years has only benefited developed countries. In paragraph 30 again, we would want to avoid preempting the INC and remove some sensitive language. In 30 again, the issue of preempting discussions in the INC and duplication, and we also stress the need for the process to be truly inclusive and to take account of all views of all delegations. Paragraph 30d, we would suggest to simplify the paragraph, avoid the listing, also to avoid omitting some relevant work that is being carried out across different institutions. 30e, this paragraph is too prescriptive. We would prefer to stress the need to support developing countries in implementing standards, but we could not, for example, for the sake of a level playing field, agree to carve out as such. Paragraph F, we would ask to delete. This work is already underway within the OECD and we would not support double standards on the same issues. Paragraph 31, so in general we're very happy with the section on IFF. Of course, there's room to tweak and improve and enhance, but as a general observation, it's a very strong section. On paragraph 31A, discussion on anti-money laundering issues should be conducted at the FATF and discussion on an independent review of regulatory frameworks and practices should be held in appropriate standard setting bodies avoiding duplication. 31B, we would need to give careful consideration to the follow-up and the proliferation of meetings. So there should be clarity on what the value added of a new ECOSOC meeting is and to avoid duplication or fragmentation of discussions that are already taking place at well-established, in well-established forum. 31d, we would like a bit more information on what innovative approaches this is referring to, if we could have a discussion on that. 31e, again, we would be reticent about creating new mechanisms and call for strengthening current mechanisms instead, but would be keen to understand better how this mediation mechanism would work and set up. 31F, we would suggest a reference to anti-terrorism be added. And starting then on paragraph 32, we would need clarification on the issue of regulatory frameworks. And I have just to say that it's important to recognize the scope and mandate of international standard setters. market authorities and regulatory and prudential regulators, as well as respect the risk-based approach of regulatory requirements to avoid unintended consequences in financial and capital markets. We'll have some suggestions on adding references to work that's already ongoing, for example, in the financing common network. And sorry, I'm going on several pages here. We will suggest to delete subparagraph C, uh, no, there's no commitment to overhaul the Prudential frameworks of national development banks, and it's not the role of the UN to be doing that. Um, however, there is the possibility to, um, stress the need to better coordinate the work of different, um, development banks with the rest of the system. And just to stress, we'll have a new suggestion for paragraph 32C to support well-governed national development banks that do play a critical role in mobilizing, for example, in mobilizing private capital for sustainability and climate action. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the European Union and now give the floor to the representative of Palau on behalf of AOSIS, and you will be the last speaker for this session. So please go ahead, Palau.

Thank you, Ambassador. I'll try to be as quickly as possible because I don't want to stand in the way of delegations on their lunch. So on paragraph 30, it is important that the language under international tax cooperation recognizes that measures such as gray and blacklisting disproportionately impacts vulnerable countries such as LDCs and SIDS. It unfairly excludes them from the international financial system. So we would propose language that includes a reference to imposing or prevent the imposition of punitive measures such as gray and blacklisting. This is to illustrate that the international tax rules do not take into account, uh, the needs of these countries and highlights the need for a more consultative and capacity building approach to tax cooperation. On paragraph 30a, we would propose adding a specific reference to countries in special situations after developing countries, as it is important that international tax cooperation frameworks take into account the needs of African countries, LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS. These countries continue to be severely unrepresented in the current international tax architecture. Also on paragraph 30A, with regard to the reference to a careful analysis, EOSIS will appreciate greater clarity on what such analysis would entail and whether it is envisioned on which actor should carry out such an analysis. Moving on to paragraph 30G, EOSIS will propose using the term tailored rather than demand base as this, the term demand base is not clear. Similar to the African group, we would also propose deleting the reference to the two pillar solution to leave the paragraph much broader. On paragraph h, we will also appreciate more clarity on the term innovative taxes here as well. On paragraph 31f, EOSIS proposes adding to the end of the Paragraph language that seeks to ensure that acting on money laundering risk also mitigate the potential impact on reducing access to local and cross-border financial services. And then moving on to paragraph 32, we would want to make it clear that commercial banks have different objectives. given that they are profit motivated and in addition to not always being fully engaged, they are also not development focused so that there is no implicit idea that we are shifting responsibilities to commercial banks. To paragraph 32b, it is difficult to ask developing countries, especially SIDS, to provide their own technical support. to national development banks. So we would propose that we call on the MDBs and development partners to provide support and resources, including on concessional terms to national development banks in developing countries. That way the call to action is more specific in that regard. And then lastly on paragraph 32C, It is unclear how the international community will define regulatory requirements. In our view, this is too prescriptive and our focus should be on developing and enabling global environment rather than defining regulatory requirements. And this would be our comments on this cluster. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Palau. and i thank all of you for very rich comments as far as we've gotten today. we will meet again in this room at three zero p.m. and just continue on the speakers list first on paragraphs thirty to thirty two but the meeting is adjourned.