(2nd meeting) Sixteenth session of the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM)

We haven't formally started the session, however, we're running about 45 minutes behind time, and you know what that signals. I almost don't want to say we're down to 30 seconds, but no, we're not. All right, we haven't started the session. We'll let you know. Are you ready? All right. Colleagues, I call to order the second meeting of the 16th session of the Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management. We will now continue our consideration from this morning's agenda item four entitled contribution of the regional committees to global geospatial information agenda and hear the remaining speakers in the discussion. Before I proceed any further, I kindly remind all speakers of the time limit. Two minutes for interventions in our discussions. The microphone will start blinking when 30 seconds are left. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia.

Thank you, Chair. Allow me to deliver my intervention in Arabic.

I am honored to speak on behalf of the Arab Committee of the GGIM. At the outset, we express our sincere appreciation to the Secretariat and to our colleagues in the regional commissions for their cooperation in the preparation of this joint report, which reflects the collective efforts made to promote the implementation of ECOSOC resolution and to support the United Nations geospatial information agenda. During the reporting period, the Arab Committee continued to strengthen regional cooperation by holding its 13th meeting in the Republic of Tunisia. and continuing the work of its technical teams, in addition to expanding partnerships with Member States, the UN system, academia and the private sector. We reaffirm the commitment of our countries to continue to align their work programme with the Committee's strategic framework for the period 2025 to 2030 and enhance the contributions to global task forces and support capacity building, the expanding cooperation with regional commissions and thematic networks. The Arab Committee welcomes the progress achieved in the future hosting of the GGIM at the geospatial Center in Saudi Arabia. And in conclusion, we thank all the regional commissions and the Secretariat for the spirit of partnership and cooperation, and we look forward to continuing joint work to strengthen the management of geospatial information and achieving the objectives of the committee. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished delegate of Saudi Arabia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Austria.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Austria fully supports the regional committee's critical.

Role in driving capacity building and guiding member states through the implementation of core frameworks.

Like the UN IGIF and the GSGF. Austria recognizes and applauds the dedication to fostering robust interregional partnerships, knowledge sharing, and joint initiatives that streamline global geospatial efforts and reduce duplication. Austria commends their commitment to aligning regional work programs with global agendas, like the 2030 Agenda, to ensure that geospatial data efficiently addresses critical global challenges. From this perspective, we observe that there has been a missing focus on the fundamental data themes by all regional chapters.

This is a bad state of affairs in terms of AI readiness of the fundamental data themes.

We urgently require the semantic understanding and the relational knowledge structure for these important geospatial base data. Austria will be offering its expertise and is willing to participate upcoming actions in these terms. Finally, allow us to gently point out that single entity highlighting is not appropriate for UN reports. We would therefore recommend reviewing the reports in this manner. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Austria. I now hand the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia.

Thank you, co-chair.

Indonesia welcomes the joint report and thanks UNGGIM Arab States for its coordination. Regional committees are essential for translating global frameworks into practical national implementation and ensuring that regional priorities inform the global program of work. Indonesia encourage stronger alignment between regional work programs, the Strategic Framework 2025-2030 and the Committee's functional groups, while avoiding duplication. We welcome progress in all regions, in particular in Asia and the Pacific, on the UN IGIF, statistical geospatial integration, land administration, regional geodesy and geo-AI. These efforts should prioritize practical capacity development for developing countries and Pacific small island developing states. Indonesia also supports stronger interregional dialogue, joint activities, and systematic sharing of implementation experience. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Singapore.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Singapore would like to congratulate the regional committee for the Arab states for coordinating and delivering this year's joint report at the 16th session. We also commend the efforts of all the five regional committees in continuing to strengthen inter-regional engagement and alignment and we note with appreciation the progress made across regions in advancing the implementation of global geospatial frameworks particularly the UN IGIF, the global statistics geospatial framework and the framework for effective land administration. We also welcome the sustained focus on capacity development, which remain essential to ensuring that no Member States is left behind. We note with concern the ongoing resource constraint at the UNGGIM Secretariat and encourage Member States to advocate for the filling of vacant posts to ensure the Committee of Experts can fully deliver on its programme of work. Singapore is also pleased to note the continued progress on youth engagement in the geospatial community between the UNGGIM Asia Pacific and welcomes the growing recognition across region of the importance of nurturing the next generation of geospatial professionals. Singapore also welcomes the growing focus on GeoAI across the regional committee and we note with appreciation the establishment of the GeoAI community of practice in the Americas and the new working group on the GeoAI for sustainable development between UN-GGIM Asia Pacific. These initiatives reflect the increasing importance of geospatial artificial intelligence as a tool for the innovation and evidence-based decision making. We encourage all regional committee and the United Nations Global Geospatial Center of Excellence to continue sharing knowledge, good practices, and use cases in this area. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Singapore. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium.

Thank you. I will speak on behalf of UNGGM Europe. UNGGM Europe welcomes the joint report of the five regional committees and wishes to highlight that at the 13th plenary, the regional committee decided to create a new working group on data in response to global agendas. This working group recognizes that statistical and geospatial data are fundamental to the delivery of existing global agendas with a core task of identifying how such data can be incorporated into future development agendas, both globally in the context of the 2030 development agenda and future development frameworks, and regionally through UN GGIAM's contribution, Europe's contribution to European priorities. UNDGIM Europe also wishes to inform the Committee that at its 13th plenary, which was held alongside the 74th session of the Conference of European Statisticians, amongst other decisions, the two bodies agreed to continue identifying areas of collaboration of mutual strategic importance, including contributions to future global development agendas. UNGGIM Europe sees this as a concrete practical example of the strategically important anchoring work the committee is encouraged to pursue more broadly. Finally, UNGGIM Europe wishes to underline the value of interregional collaboration in sharing knowledge, good practice and lessons learned. UNGGIM Europe extends its thanks to previous regional committees for their coordination of the Joint Regional Committee's report in previous and current intersessional periods and looks forward to taking on this coordinating role for the upcoming intersessional period, building on the strong foundation established by its predecessors. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Belgium. I now hand the floor to the distinguished representative of Honduras.

Good afternoon.

Thank you, Mr. President.

I will be speaking in Spanish.

Honduras recognizes and appreciates the major contribution of the regional committees to strengthening global geospatial information management and to the implementation of the UN GGIM global agenda. We express our appreciation to UN GGIM Americas for promoting strong regional cooperation knowledge sharing and capacity building among member states. These actions have made it possible to move towards greater regional integration and better coordination for addressing common challenges. Honduras reaffirms its commitment to regional cooperation and is honored to be the co-coordinator of the working group on effective land management, contributing to the exchange of experiences, capacity building, and to the promotion of the implementation of the framework in the region. We also recognize the efforts of the regional committees in strengthening interregional cooperation, aligning their programs of work with the UN GGI strategic framework 2025 through 2030 and in supporting implementation of the UN IGIF and other global frameworks that contribute to sustainable development. Honduras supports and encourages a continuing of the strengthening of these spaces for collaboration, promoting strategic alliances, exchange of good practices and capacity building that allow member states to fully use the value of geospatial information and evidence-based decision making. Finally, we invite member states to participate actively in the initiatives and meetings of the regional committees. as we are convinced that more robust regional cooperation will contribute significantly to implementing the global geospatial information agenda. I thank you.

I therefore thank the distinguished representative of Honduras. Before I hand the floor, I just want to remind everybody of the two-minute limit. I also want to indicate that after The next two speakers, which would be Barbados and Denmark, we will close the list for this item. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Barbados.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Barbados takes note of the report and applauds the regional committees on the activities and achievements over the intercessional period. Barbados wishes to thank UN-GGIM Americas for its continued support in strengthening geospatial information management across the region, particularly through its support for sub-regional initiatives in the Caribbean. Barbados joined with other member states in encouraging international collaboration among the regional committees and further commends their collective contributions to the Digital Road Webinar Series in the lead up to the 16th session. This initiative exemplifies the value of interregional cooperation by providing member states with timely insights into the work of the Committee of Experts, fostering knowledge exchange, and broadening participation through an accessible platform for practitioners who may not be able to attend the annual session. In closing, Barbados remains committed to supporting the work of UN GGEAM Americas, CARIGEIO, and the wider Committee of Experts. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Barbados. Apologies, please start your two minutes again. I had my mic on.

Thank you, Chair. Denmark welcomes the joint report of the five regional committees commends their achievements and recognises their essential role as the principal link between Member States and the global work of the Committee of Experts. Denmark strongly supports that the regional committees systematically work to advance the Committee's global programme of work, and that the regional committees work in close coordination with the Bureau, the Secretariat, the functional groups and the United Nations Global Geospatial Centres of Excellence, with clear responsibilities and due regard to coherence, efficiency and the avoidance of duplication. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Denmark. And I now also just want to indicate that the list is officially closed for this session for representatives to make comments from the floor on this item. I also then would like to give the floor to the distinguished representative of Tonga.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Kingdom of Tonga welcomes the report on the contribution of regional committees to the global geospatial information agenda. Tonga acknowledges the hard work carried out by the regional committees within the Committee of Expert Structures by providing that important interface with member states and implementing their regional plans in alignment with global activities of the Committee of Experts. So I recognize also the continued work of the regional committees in its ongoing prioritization of capacity and capability development and strengthening coordination and coherence in geospatial collective activities within and across regional committees. More importantly, the adoption of the IGIF. Toma echoed finally, however, the low number of representation from the Pacific Islands in the Asia Pacific Regional Committee plenary meeting.

There is an urgent need.

For all member states to be enabled and supported to attend the regional committee's meeting and connect to the geospatial lifeline. And finally, to acknowledge and address the diversity, the digital divide, and the geospatial divide within regional committees, especially Asia Pacific. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Tonga. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Japan commends UN-GGIM Arab States for its important coordinating role in facilitating the preparation of the reports. Japan also recognizes the importance of the contributions of national geospatial information authority and other.

Relevant stakeholders to the UN-GGIM AP Regional Committee of the GGIM.

Japan as the.

Executive board of the UNCGMP welcomes the further contribution of the member states and stakeholders to the UNCGMP. Japan recognizes the importance of coordination between the UNCGMP geodetic initiatives and the activities of the regional committees.

In this regard, Japan attaches great.

Importance to ongoing project aimed at maintaining and enhancing the geodetic reference frame in the Asia Pacific region, including the AR.

The 2025 campaign conducted last year.

In addition, we would like to express our sincere appreciation for India and the Republic of Korea's significant contribution as co-chairs in the operation of UNJJP, as well as our gratitude to ESCAP for its valuable support in the functioning of UNJJP.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Japan. I now give the chair, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of India.

Thank you, Chair. India appreciates the Secretariat and the four thematic networks for their valuable contributions in advancing the global geospatial information agenda through research, innovation, education, and capacity development. India recognizes the important role of thematic networks in supporting the work of Committee of Experts, particularly in advancing UN IGIF, promoting GEO-AI, and strengthening capacity development. India supports closer collaboration among the thematic networks, regional committees, and the UN Global Geospatial Centres to improve coordination and translate global knowledge into practical national implementation. Looking ahead, India encourages deeper collaboration in emerging areas such as GeoAI, digital public infrastructure, and interoperable geospatial standards. India remains committed to working with the thematic networks and member states to build a collaborative and future-ready global geospatial ecosystem. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of India. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

China appreciates the achievements made by the five regional committees in continuously advancing regional work plans and actively implementing the global geospatial agenda. China supports further strengthening the knowledge sharing and collaboration mechanisms among regional committees and proposes to enhance cross-regional joint demonstration and application in fields such as geo-AI, disaster risk management, and the integration of statistics and geospatial information. The 15th plenary meeting of the UNGGIM Asia Pacific, as well as the International Symposium on Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation for Climate Resilience and Sustainable Development will be held in China from September the 21st to the 24th this year. We sincerely invite representatives from all member states in the region and other regional committees to attend the event. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Turkey.

Thank you, Mr. Co-Chair. Distinguished delegates, Turkey takes note of the report and thanks all five regional committees for their contributions. including UNGGM Arab States for coordinating it. Regional committees serve as an essential bridge between the committee's global work program and national implementation. We encourage them not only to communicate global frameworks, but also to bring national experiences and challenges to the global level. In this regard, we underline the value of interregional and bilateral collaboration among the five regional committees. Turkey was pleased to participate in the 13th plenary meeting of the UNGGM Europe and to join its executive committee. We look forward to contributing to the implementation of UNGGM Europe's new work plan for 2026-2030. including its focus on the combined use of geospatial, statistical, and Earth observation and administrative data in response to global agendas. Building on this engagement, and as UNGGM Europe takes on this coordination role, we intend to contribute to an inclusive, practical, and result-oriented approach. Such an approach should avoid duplication, complement the global function groups and reflect member states' different national circumstances and capacities. We also encourage sustained participation by member states in regional plenaries and working groups and see value in the voluntary sharing of responsibilities with due regard to balanced geographical representation. Guided by these principles, Turkey remains committed to contributing, constructively to stronger cooperation among the regional committees. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Turkey. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Fiji.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. My delegation thanks the UN-GIEO regional committees for their work in advancing the global geospatial agenda. We concur with the committee's report emphasizing the heavy reliance of Pacific Island developing states on geospatial information to build resilience across all sectors. While we grapple with structural challenges affecting progress, we welcome productive opportunities, regional cooperation, including access to shared expertise, infrastructure, training, and the use of emerging technologies like observation, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. In response to the views and guidance sought in the report, my delegation recommends that regional committees be strengthened as practical implementation mechanisms, not only as forums for dialogue. We further emphasize the following practical strategic partnerships. First, the UN GGI Asia Pacific working with the Pacific Geospatial Surveying Council, the Pacific Community and other partners to establish a dedicated Pacific SEEDS implementation mechanism aligned with the United Nations to get a geospatial information framework and nationally identified priorities. Second, that the Secretariat, United Nations and global geospatial centers and development partners provide resources for meaningful participation of developing countries and small island developing states in regional activities. Third, promote strong interregional collaboration and cross peer learning on shared solutions related to climate resilience, land sea integration, marine geospatial information, and disaster preparedness. My delegation believes, Mr. Chairman, that stronger and adequately supported regional committees will help close the geospatial divide and ensure that global frameworks develop meaningful benefits at the country level and we stand ready to work through the UNGGIM Asia Pacific with Pacific regional partners to advance integrated, inclusive, and sustainable geospatial information management. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Fiji. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will provide my statement in Spanish. Chile notes the joint report presented by the five regional committees, and we congratulate them for the progress made during the intersessional period. We also wish to especially thank the Arab States for coordinating the preparatory activities ahead of this session. Chile highlights the importance of regional committees as key bridges between member states and the committee of experts and calls for this to be strengthened through better alignment of regional work plans with the strategic framework through 2030. and the committee's work plan promoting coordination mechanisms that generate synergies, optimise the resources available and avoid the duplication of initiatives. We also encourage Member States to participate actively in the plenary meetings of the working groups and regional committee meetings and to make the most of these spaces for the exchange of good practices and to strengthen national geospatial capabilities. Finally, Chile values the initiatives for collaboration led by the five regional committees, and we consider there is an opportunity to go deeper in cooperation through joint projects and bilateral interregional partnerships that contribute to strengthening geospatial programs, taking into account the impact of geospatial information and sustainable development. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Chile. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guyana.

Thank you, Chair. Guyana takes note of the current report and thanks the five regional committees for their continued commitment to the implementation of the global genetic framework and related activities. Guyana continues to support the idea of regional collaboration and notes the importance of sharing knowledge, experiences, and expertise, especially the dissemination of current and emerging trends and best practices to the most vulnerable countries that lack capacity. Guyana, as part of the Americas group, further endorses the document prepared by the group titled Regional and Subregional Strategic Priorities for Geospatial Information Management in the Americas, 2026-2029, and supports its implementation towards achieving the six strategic objectives listed, which will no doubt contribute significantly to country-level achievements. Guiana notes that inter-regional cooperation such as these keeps us focused, avoids duplication, allows for the identification of areas of synergies and greatly enhances regional capacity. Guyana finally takes note of the upcoming events and urges continued active participation by members at the global and regional levels. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I will speak in Arabic.

The UAE welcomes the report. We highly value the efforts by regional committees in addressing the challenges of the region. advancing the geospatial information agenda and the work of the Arab Committee of Experts in coordination. We believe that the upcoming phase requires enhancing complementarity and cooperation between the regional committees. We have to move from exchanging best practices to practical cooperation and practical projects that bring about a tangible impact on the ground in different countries, especially when it comes to benefiting from emerging technologies. Regional committees must play a bigger role in conveying the needs of member states or elevating them to international level. And at the same time, it's important to turn international initiatives to solutions that are practicable and implementable at national levels. We are committed to supporting international and regional experiences and exchange our experiences to advance the geospatial information ecosystem. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Arab Emirates. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Argentina.

Thank you very much, Chair. Argentina takes note of the report and thanks the Regional Committee of the Arab States for coordinating this work. It also congratulates the regional committees on the work carried out and the achievements accomplished. We particularly support the support of the Latin American group to the countries of the region. We also highlight the importance and potential of coordinated efforts among the regional committees and its impact on the global geospatial community. That is why we encourage the continued strengthening of interregional cooperation in coordination with the global committee. Likewise, Argentina encourages member states to continue and to strengthen their participation and collaboration with their respective regional committees in order to thus contribute to transforming global efforts into national realities. Finally, it takes note of and appreciates the upcoming coordinating work, coordination work to be carried out by GGIM Europe in support of regional geospatial information management activities as well as interregional dialogues and coordination initiatives planned for the next cycle. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Argentina. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Chair. The Republic of Korea welcomes the joint report of the five regional committees and appreciates their important contributions to the global geospatial data agenda. Regional committees play a vital role in connecting global guidance with national implementation. They should continue to strengthen national capacity and support implementation of the UN IGIF. We also support close cooperation between regional committees and global functional groups to improve coordination and avoid duplication. As a co-chair of UN GGI MAP, the Republic of Korea remains committed to sharing our experience in GEO-AI, geodesy, satellite data, and the national geospatial information management, and to strengthening cooperation with all member states. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Jamaica.

Jamaica welcomes the joint report of the five regional committees and thanks the regional committee for the Arab states for coordinating its preparation. As an active member of the UNGGIM Americas, we also welcome the Americas report for 25-26. and commend the regional secretariat and member countries for sustaining capacity development, regional exchange, and of course, implementing the global frameworks across our diverse region. For Jamaica, the value of regional and international cooperation was demonstrated directly after Hurricane Melissa in October 2025. Within weeks of landfall, data, imagery, and expertise shared through our partnerships enabled AI-assisted damage assessments and a national geotag buildings register that continue to guide recovery efforts decisions today. We encourage greater member state participation in regional plenary meetings and support practical strategies to strengthen engagement, including workshops within the UN. As Caribbean vocal, Jamaica appreciates UNGGM Americas global geospatial centers and hybrid modalities that ease participation by small island developing states and steadfastly commits to supporting the geospatial advancement of Caribbean member states through the Caribbean Geo Initiative. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Jamaica. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iceland.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Iceland welcomes the report of the contribution of regional committees to the global geospatial information agenda and supports the comment made on the behalf of UNGGIM Europe. In addition, we would like to underline the necessity of well-balanced representation in all working groups, task teams, and other bodies active in delivering the committee's program of work. In this regard, gender balance in our meetings has yet not achieved. A well-balanced group composition helps address certain problems and avoids unconscious bias. Iceland therefore encourage all Member States to actively promote the participation of women and young people across all working groups and to encourage female leadership in our field. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iceland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the International Federation of Surveyors.

Mr. President, on the geospatial network, we welcome the joint report of the five regional committees. The diversity of activities presented in the report reflects an important reality. that while global frameworks will provide common direction, successful implementation is actually shaped by regional priorities, local context, and the maturity of the national geospatial ecosystems, which I've been hearing from members this afternoon. But speaking as FIG president, my community particularly supports the emphasis on the regional cooperation and capacity development. because through FIG technical commissions and our FIG regional capacity development networks, and they're in Africa, Asia Pacific and the Americas, FIG provides platforms for professional education and the knowledge exchange and leadership development and peer-to-peer cooperation. These FIG regional networks recognize that capacity needs differ across regions and must respond to their specific institutional, economic and cultural context. Indeed, early discussions are being held to support FIG members in the Caribbean region to develop an FIG regional framework and FIG would really welcome opening dialogues with member states in the region. And in fact, FIG community welcomes and has a history of working with all UNGGIM regional committees. You will see many of us around your regions, and I was particularly pleased to attend the African Regional Committee 11th session in Accra, Ghana last November, but going forward. FIG encourages stronger collaboration between the UNGGIM regional committees and FIG networks to identify those priority capacity gaps and connect expertise and develop regional training and knowledge sharing.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the International Federation of Surveyors. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of EuroGeographics.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. EuroGeographics continues to support the Committee and the Regional Committee by making its established knowledge exchange networks and communication infrastructures available to deliver webinars and capacity development activities organized by UNGGI in Europe. We warmly welcome the new UNGGIM Europe Working Group on Data in Response to Global Agendas. EuroGeographics considers this an important contribution to anchoring geospatial information into the broader frameworks of the United Nations and to improving the visibility of geospatial's data role in the current and future development agendas, and we look forward to supporting the working group's agenda. Finally, in relation to the regional contributions to the development of the global geospatial agenda, we would like to update the committee on Eurocore reference map, a high value, large scale, harmonised pan-European dataset which integrates authoritative trusted national data on administrative boundaries, transport networks and hydrography. and it builds this into an interoperable pan-European reference framework. It builds on the proof of concept delivered under the EU funded project Open Maps for Europe and is being developed by the national mapping authorities of France, Germany and the Netherlands together with Eurogeographics. Eurogeographics considers this kind of authoritative, trusted data foundation that underpins sound evidence-based decision making. And we are willing to share their knowledge and experience as we move forward with the global data agenda. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I want to thank the distinguished representative of Eurogeographics. I then also have overlooked one of the members in my list, and I would like to then give the floor to the distinguished representative of Panama.

Thank you, Chair. The Republic of Panama welcomes the report joint report and recognizes the essential role of regional committees when it comes to translating the global geospatial agenda into practical regional cooperation and national level implementation. Panama appreciates the progress made by UNGGIM Americas through the adoption of its regional and sub-regional priorities for 2025-2029 and its plan of work for 2026. In this context, Panama has the honor to hold the upcoming session of GGJM Americas, which will be held in the city of Panama from October 13th to 16th, 2026, with the support of the National Land Administration. authority. This session is action oriented and seeks to move forward regional priorities and transform them into concrete actions to implement IGIF, develop capacities, interoperability, geodesics, land management, and territorial resilience. Panama kindly invites member states, regional committees, global geospatial information centers of the UN thematic networks, and strategic partners to participate in this meeting and share their implementation experience. We look forward to welcoming you in Panama and continue strengthening the contribution of the Americas to the global geospatial information agenda. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Panama. We have just heard the last speaker in the discussion on this item. I now invite Mr. Guillaume Lesourd, Geospatial Information Officer of the Global Geospatial Information Management Section of the United Nations Statistics Division, to summarize the main points of the discussion.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Committee of Experts expresses its appreciation to the United Nations Global Geospatial Information Management Regional Committee for the Arab States for coordinating the preparation of the report jointly prepared by the five regional committees and welcomes the progress made by the regional committees in implementing their respective work programmes and advancing the implementation of the Committee's global geospatial frameworks. The Committee of Experts welcomed the continued effort to deepen regional, interregional, and bilateral collaboration as an essential means to advance the implementation of frameworks and strengthen national geospatial information management, including through the participation across regions plenary meetings, interregional dialogues, meetings, joint activities, and the webinar series conducted in preparation for the 16th session. The Committee noted the dates of the forthcoming plenary meetings of the five regional committees and encouraged Member States to participate actively and contribute to those meetings. The Committee requested the regional committees to continue contributing actively to the work of the Committee, strengthening alignment with its priorities, programme of work, implementation of framework and activities, in close coordination with the Bureau and the Secretariat and respective functional groups, such as on sustainable development. The Committee recognized the critical role of the regional committees in connecting the global programme of work of the Committee with national and regional priorities, promoting benefits of geospatial information, sharing knowledge, good practices, shared solution, peer learning and implemented projects, and encouraged the regional committees to further strengthen cooperation, advance gender balance, and development of partnerships, including in support of national capacity development. And finally, the Committee of Experts acknowledged that the United Nations Global Geospatial Information Management Regional Committee for Europe would be responsible for coordinating the joint activities of the five regional committees, including the different dialogues and activities, and the preparation of the joint report at its 17th session. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank Mr. Lesourd and all the participants for their valuable contributions to this interesting exchange of views. The Committee of Experts has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item four. The Committee will now begin its consideration of agenda item five entitled Contribution of Thematic Networks to the Global Geospatial Information Agenda. I invite Mr Dejan Jakovic, Chief Information Officer and Director of the Digital and Agroinformatics at the Food and Agriculture Organization to take the introducer's seat, which he has done, on the podium. Under this item, the committee has before it a note by the secretariat entitled contribution of the thematic networks to the global geospatial information agenda contained in document e slash c dot 20 slash 2026 slash six and its addendum i give the floor to mr dejan jokovic to introduce the documents

Thank you, thank you, Chair, and distinguished representatives, delegates, observers, and colleagues. It is my honor to introduce the agenda item on the contribution of the thematic networks to the global geospatial information agenda encompassing the UNGGIM Academic Network, the UNGGIM Geospatial Societies, the UNGGIM Private Sector Network, and the United Nations Geospatial Network. The Committee of Experts at its previous season, session, sorry, encouraged the thematic networks to deepen their cooperation and expand efforts to support the development of coordinated training and educational programs, especially for developing countries, pursue innovative approaches to sustainable development and capacity development, and enhance communication and outreach, appreciated the role of the thematic networks in demonstrating the value of geospatial information management and innovation to achieve the sustainable development goals, UNIGIF and national priorities. Throughout the intersessional period, the networks advanced the committee's program of work, focusing on capacity development, innovation and strategic collaboration. They jointly conducted the global consultations on capacity building and deepened the collaboration with the UN Global Geospatial Centres, regional committees and functional groups of the Committee. The UNGGIM Academic Network continued to advance academic contributions to global geospatial information management on education, capacity development, and implementation of the UN IGIF expanding membership. The Geospatial Societies Network underwent a leadership transition and engaged in promoting capacity development under strategic pathway of UN IGIF with dedicated contributions to foresight discussions and on the future of geospatial information ecosystem. The private sector network transitioned its leadership and prepared strategic priorities for 2026-2027 for country level UNIGIF implementation partnerships and fostering a coordinated inclusive global geospatial community. the UN geospatial network strengthened coherence and coordination across 46 UN entities with key highlights including development of the landscape document and advancement of expanded one UN geospatial situation room blueprint these Collective efforts underscore the network's critical role in advancing Global geospatial governance and sustainable development I thank you and back to you

I thank Mr. Jakov, how do you say that? Deshan, thank you. I now open the floor for the discussion on this item, and I kindly remind the speakers of the time limit of two minutes. I must comment that in the last session, we really did well, and we've made up good ground. The microphone obviously will start blinking with 30 seconds remaining of your two minutes. I give the floor now to the distinguished representative of Serbia.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will speak on behalf of UNDGAM Europe. UNGGM Europe welcomes the continued contributions of the four thematic networks and recognizes their value in connecting academic, professional, private sector and system expertise to the Committee's work. Given current constrained resources, the Europe Regional Committee considers it essential that the networks work more collaboratively, avoiding duplication of effort and ensuring that overlapping engagements translate into coordinated rather than parallel contributions. Straightening alignment across the networks will help maximize the impact of limited resources and reinforce alignment with the priorities and program of work of the Committee for the benefit of all member states. UNDG-M Europe has identified gaps with its regional representation in the thematic groups, especially the academic network, and invites them to collaborate with Europe Committee through EuroSDR. The European Regional Committee also sees real value in the role that the thematic networks can play in anchoring geospatial information management into the broader frameworks of the United Nations, particularly in support of sustainable development. UNGGM Europe would encourage this work to be pursued in close coordination with the Bureau and the regional committees, rather than an isolated undertaking, so that the networks' efforts reinforce rather than duplicate wider strategic direction. UNGGM Europe welcomes the proposal to consider the standards development organizations item alongside this agenda item. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Serbia and now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will speak in Spanish. Chile notes

with satisfaction the report and the reference documents bed across the four thematic networks and we thank the members for their valuable contributions in research, education, capacity building and innovation. All of this strengthens the implementation of the global geospatial information agenda. We especially appreciate the joint work across the networks to identify gaps in capacity through a global survey based on UNIDIF, and we believe it is fundamentally consolidate this permanent coordination mechanism to promote joint actions that avoid duplication and ensure alignment with the program of work for the benefit of all member states. Chile also supports greater involvement of the somatic networks with the geospatial network of the United Nations and the United Nations system as a whole to strengthen coordination with the regional centers and the centers of excellence to continue supporting geospatial information under the framework of the UN and to leverage their potential for sustainable development. I thank you.

I thank the Distinguished representative of Chile, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Jamaica.

Thank you, co-chair. Thank you, Sir Chair. Jamaica takes note of the report on the contributions of the four thematic networks. and expresses its appreciation to the academic network, the geospatial societies, the private sector network, and the United Nations geospatial network for their research, education, capacity development, and innovation activities during the intercessional period. Jamaica recognizes the value of multi-stakeholder networks firsthand. Through the Land Information Council of Jamaica, our National Geospatial Community of Practice, we convened government, academia, professional societies and the private sector, most recently at the 2026 Drones, AI and GIS for Disaster Risk Management Conference held in Jamaica. We saw the launch of our national uncrewed aerial system standards. This national experience mirrors and benefits from the work of the committee's thematic networks. Jamaica welcomes the continued the growth of the academic network and encourages deeper engagement of Caribbean academic institutions in its programs. The geospatial societies plan the survey of capacity development needs and the private sector's regional strategic planning including its coordination, its contribution to the sustainable funding dialogue. We also note with interest the United Nations Geospatial Networks Blueprint 2.0 and the one United Nations geospatial situation room and encourage continued collaboration with United Nations global geospatial centers so that these resources are accessible to and usable by member states. Jamaica recognizes the importance of having networks such as a youth network. In closing, Jamaica supports the development of coordinated series of policy, insight and research documents and stands ready to engage with networks activities within the Americas and the Caribbean subregion. Thank you, Sir Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Jamaica. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Austria.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Austria fully supports the academic network's focus on capacity building through the development of a curriculum framework aligned with the United Nations integrated geospatial information framework, the global statistical geospatial framework, and the sustainable development goals. We recognize the effort and these developments of the recent period. Austria recognizes the network's valuable contributions to assessing global capacity development needs in partnership with the United Nations Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Center. Furthermore, Austria commends the commitment of thematic networks to expanding international collaboration by strengthening ties with UN regional communities, thematic networks, and member institutions to foster sustainable geospatial leadership globally and avoid duplication. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Austria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay.

I will speak in English.

Distinguished Chair, my statement is being delivered on behalf of the UNGGIM Americas. We take note of the report and we acknowledge the progress made by the thematic networks in the areas of education, capacity development, innovation, and support for implementation of the UN IGIF. We especially welcome the collaborative efforts aimed at identifying capacity development gaps and priorities and the progress achieved in curriculum frameworks, training of trainers programs, geospatial leadership, and joint initiatives with the UN Global Geospatial Centers. We encourage these efforts to be translation of a joint action plan with clearly defined activities, responsibilities, and performance indicators. We also consider it essential that the regional committees be involved from the very earliest stages of planning and prioritization to ensure that these initiatives address the needs, capacities, languages, and institutional context of member states. Finally, UNTGIM Americas and encourages the establishment of concrete mechanisms to ensure that outcomes, knowledge, products and capacity development programs effectively reach the countries with greatest capacity gaps while avoiding duplication of efforts and maximizing efficient use of available resources. UN GDM Americas reaffirms its commitment to continue working to, I would say, coordinated, inclusive and results oriented outcome. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia.

Thanks, Chair. I will deliver our speech in Arabic.

The Arab Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management expresses its deep appreciation to the Secretariat and the four thematic networks of the Committee of Experts, namely the Academic Network, the Geospatial Societies, the Private Sector Network and the UN Geospatial Network for their continued commitment to supporting the global geospatial information management agenda. We also commend their valuable contributions to research and innovation, capacity building, knowledge exchange and support for the implementation of the UN Integrated Geospatial Information Framework. The Arab Committee welcomes the growing cooperation among the Thematic Networks, Regional Committees and UN Global Geospatial Information Centres. This is a practical model for enhancing integration among global, regional, and national efforts. This cooperation is an essential element to transform global frameworks into implementable national programs and initiatives, and to allow member states to have access to the expertise, partnerships, and capacities required to develop their national geospatial ecosystems. The Arab Committee also welcomes the contribution of the thematic networks in preparing for the third UN World Geospatial Information Congress, which will take place in the city of Jeddah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in November 2026. We look forward to continued collaboration with the four networks to ensure that the Congress serves as a comprehensive, global, inclusive platform that promotes cooperation, innovation, and knowledge exchange among governments, academia, the private sector, professional associations, and the United Nations system. It would thereby support the implementation of the committee's strategic framework and strengthen the future of the global geospatial information ecosystem. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. South Africa welcomes the valuable contributions of the four thematic networks and recognizes their important role in strengthening collaboration across the global geospatial community. Effective geospatial information management depends on meaningful collaboration among governments, academia, professional bodies, the private sector, and the United Nations system. These partnerships should be guided by public outcomes, member state priorities, and the practical requirements of national and regional implementation. South Africa commends the joint efforts of the thematic networks in conducting global survey to better understand current and future capacity development needs within the global geospatial community. The findings of this work will be important in informing targeted capacity development and supporting the implementation of the UNIGRF. South Africa recognizes the critical importance of knowledge transfer and the active participation of young professionals in advancing the geospatial information ecosystem. In this regard, South Africa recommends the establishment of a UN Youth Network on geospatial information and calls upon all thematic networks to actively support and facilitate meaningful youth participation in UNGGM activities. Investing in the next generation of geospatial professionals is essential to ensuring the continuity and sustainability of the committee's work. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Indonesia commends the contribution of the thematic networks and acknowledges the work of the special societies.

In leading the requirement gathering, capacity development, global survey.

These networks are important bridges among government, academia, professional organization, industries, and the United Nations system.

Indonesia encourages a more coordinated and demand-driven approach to capacity development, including joint training, training, train the trainers, programs and practical resources responding to the priorities identified by member states and regional committees. Greater coordination is also needed to prevent duplication and turn academic knowledge and private sector innovation into.

Accessible and sustainable national solution.

Indonesia also supports the initiative to establish geospatial youth network and recommend that the network be coordinated under the UN-GTAM thematic network.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium.

Thank you, Chair. The Kingdom of Belgium welcomes the report we endorse the statement delivered by the European group. Belgium appreciates the expertise and broad reach of the four thematic networks. We encourage them to continue to actively and systematically contribute to the programme of the work of the committee, notably through the intermediary of its regional committees and functional groups. Their activities should address the identified member state needs and lead to practical outputs that can be reused across different regions. As our colleague from Serbia has indicated, we in particular would encourage the academic or university network to strengthen its regional dimension in Europe through closer collaboration with EuroSDR. This type of Cooperation, closer cooperation could help to mobilize relevant expertise, could help to connect research with the priorities of national geospatial authorities and also support regional implementation of the committee's frameworks. Coordination and transparency are essential. When thematic networks develop, curricula, capacity development framework or other resources linked to the UN IGIF and the broader programme work of the Committee, such initiatives and their outputs should be shared with the Committee at an early stage with its functional groups and regional committees. Doing so will facilitate their reuse, it will promote coherence and help to avoid duplication of work. Finally, we support the proposal from South Africa as regards the creation of a youth network. I thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished delegate of Belgium. I would now just like to, in order to save some time, indicate that after the next two inputs, close the list. So we'll close the list after for this session item. I keep saying it wrong. After this item for Fiji and Senegal, we will close the list. And I will also read out the list of the remaining speakers on this item. Thank you. I now call on the distinguished representative of Fiji.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. My delegation thanks the United Nations thematic network for their reports and acknowledge the important contribution of the academic network, private sector, geospatial societies, and the United Nations geospatial network to the global geospatial information agenda. These networks provide important bridge between member states and the entire geospatial ecosystem for Fiji. other Pacific Island developing states. This support is critically important to improve connectivity, enhance knowledge transfer, and having access to innovative technology. Our delegation sees the opportunities coming out of this collaboration with academic network. We see this as a need to see specific universities develop relevant surveying, geodesy, administration, GIS, Earth observation and geospatial information management programs. On applied research, we will need some assistance on research on Pacific priorities and incorporating indigenous and traditional knowledge. And for geospatial studies, we will request them to assist us in strengthening professional standards, ethics certification, and continuing professional development and mentoring for young professionals. For private sector network, we would require some support on access to emerging technologies, innovation and sustainable private partnerships. Mr. Chair, we support the report and stand ready to work with the thematic networks and Pacific regional partners to strengthen inclusive, trusted, and sustainable geospatial information management. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Fiji. We now have come to that point where after the next Speaker, this item list will be locked. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Senegal.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Senegal is delivering this statement on behalf of UNJGIM Africa. The African region take notes of the report and comments. the thematic networks for the expertise, partnership, and practical contribution they continue to bring to the global geospatial information agenda. Africa particularly values their role in connecting government, academia, professional societies, the private sector, and the United Nations systems. UNGIM Africa encourages the network to deepen their engagement with African member states through sustained demand-driven partnership that move beyond isolated activities towards long-term institutional strengthening. Such engagement should promote knowledge transfer, professional development, applied research, access to appropriate technologies, and the co-development of solutions that respond to African priorities. It should also support stronger participation by African institutions and experts in the network's governance programs and technical work. The Africa region recognizes the critical importance of knowledge transfer, skills development, and the active participation of young professionals in advancing the geospatial information ecosystem. In this regard, the Africa region recommends the establishment of a UN youth network on geospatial information and calls open all thematic networks to actively support and facilitate meaningful youth participation in UN GIM activities. The region further calls for closer coordination among the thematic networks, the regional committees, the United Nations Geospatial Network, and the United Nations Global Geospatial Centers. Such coordination should reduce duplication, connect available expertise with clearly identified country needs, and produce tangible outcomes in national and regional levels. In this context, UNGGM Africa appreciates and welcomes the ongoing development by the United Nations Geospatial Network of the One United Nations Geospatial Situation Room Blueprint, including its consideration of artificial intelligence and its potential to strengthen integrated analysis, coordination, and decision-making across the United Nations system. UNGGM Africa supports the continuation of the thematic networks work and invites them to establish a more visible and measurable program of engagement with developing regions, including Africa, with clear priorities, implementation pathways, and mechanism for reporting results. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Senegal. I will now, as announced, read the list of the remaining participants. We have closed the list. So we have Tonga, Nigeria, Brazil, we have the ICA, the UN academic net, UNGGM academic network, the UNGGM private sector network, and the UNGGM geospatial societies. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Tonga.

Thank you, Chair. The Kingdom of Tonga, due to high demand for capacity and capability development, we acknowledge the work of the UNGGIM family network, especially the academic network, as the platform for connecting academic expertise with the priorities and capacity development needs of member states. We also acknowledge the academic network in strengthening the collaboration with other thematic network and partners, but more importantly, the EONGG-KIC. There is a need to establish a more coordinated approach to geospatial education and capacity development. We also acknowledge the FEMETIC network and its work and its continued effort to support capacity development for the small island developing states. TOA is looking forward for the general curriculum framework, the global capacity development consultants and the concept notes for a collaborative international education and capacity development initiative. For the FEMETIC network, the main obstacle we faced apart from accessing finance is education and training. How we access the right trainings and qualifications as well as research opportunities that is fit for purpose and have the most impact in country. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Tonga. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Brazil would like to express its support for South Africa's proposal to better support and encourage for UN participation. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nigeria.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Nigeria appreciates the ongoing development of United Nations Geospatial Network on one United Nations Geospatial Situation Room blueprint and recognizes the potential to the potential to strengthen integrated geospatial support for decision making across the United Nations system to the benefit of the of our nations Nigeria welcome the consideration of emerging Technologies including artificial intelligence and encourage the responsible and transparent and inclusive application to enhance situational awareness, preparedness, and sustainable development while ensuring capacity development and equitable across the developing countries. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the International Cartographic Association, ICA.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The future of geospatial information depends not only on better technology, but on better education.

As artificial intelligence starts to reshape our professions, we must prepare a new generation of experts.

Who combine technical excellence with cartographic thinking, spatial reasoning.

Medical responsibility and the ability to communicate complex information effectively.

The International Cartographic Association stands ready to advance modern curricula and strengthen geospatial education worldwide, incorporating with the member states and respective UN networks and centers.

In short, education matters. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the ICA. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the UN GIGIM Academic Network.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Academic Network appreciates the joint report and the suggestions from member states and regional committees, and welcomes the continued contributions of the four semantic networks in supporting the global geospatial information agenda. We believe the greatest value of the semantic networks lies not only in our individual contributions, but in our collective ability to support member states. In this regard, we encourage the committee to consider establishing and supporting a joint work program among the semantic networks that aligns our respective expertise with the implementation priorities of the UNIGIF, and response directly to the needs identified by member states. The joint work program should address capacity needs assessment, geospatial knowledge and learning resources, competence framework and workforce development, innovation and demonstration, and national implementation support. We also believe there is merit in establishing a more formal collaboration mechanism among the semantic networks, enabling us to plan jointly, coordinate activities, monitor collective outcomes, and provide coherent support to member states. The academic network remains committed to working with the secretariat, member states, the regional committees, the UNGGKRC, and other centers, and our fellow thematic networks to advance the implementation of UNIGIF. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the UNGGIM Academic Network. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the UNGGIM Private Sector Network.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Private Sector Network welcomes the report and recognizes the important contributions of all four thematic networks.

We believe our greatest value is realized when our collective strengths are deliberately connected.

The joint work on capacity development is a good example, and the PSN takes this opportunity to thank the geospatial.

Societies for leading this work.

We now have the opportunity to build on that work.

Together, including taking forward the actions identified by this community during our joint side event this week.

We have also listened to the call of Member States and will do our.

Part starting with the PSN Youth Mentorship Sprint, where the PSN members will mentor youths.

Students and early career geospatial professionals.

The private sector network stands ready to bring private sector expertise, innovation, implementation experience and partnerships

to this shared effort while working across the thematic networks and regional committees to reduce duplication and increase our collective impact. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the UNGM private sector network. And I'll give the floor to the distinguished representative of the UNGGM Geospatial Societies.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The UNGGM Geospatial Societies welcome the report and appreciates the continued collaboration among the four thematic networks in supporting the committee's program of work. We also thank the Secretariat for recognizing the growing value of coordinated action across the thematic networks and the United Nations Global Geospatial Centers of Excellence. During this intersessional period, the geospatial societies have focused on strengthening the professional and scientific foundations that support implementation of the United Nations Integrated Geospatial Information Framework. We have strengthened coordination among our member societies, expanded collaboration with the other thematic networks, and actively contributed to intersessional congresses, regional forums, and technical discussions that promote knowledge exchange and professional excellence. A significant achievement this year has been our collaboration with the academic network, the private sector network, and the United Nations Geospatial Network in undertaking a global consultation on capacity development needs. This evidence-based study has provided valuable insights into the capabilities required for the future geospatial workforce. The findings clearly demonstrate the member states require more than technical training, they also need Stronger leadership, institutional capacity and capability, governance, continuous professional development and preparedness for emerging technologies such as GeoAI and digital transformation on national levels. harmonized within the UNGGIM. At the third United Nations World Geospatial Information Congress agenda, the geospatial societies will propose a dedicated session to examine the capacity development survey findings and bring together member states, thematic networks, academia, private sector, and the wider professional community to identify practical approaches for strengthening leadership, professional capability, and institutional capacity. Looking ahead, we will continue to strengthen our collaboration with the UN GGKIC and the United Nations Global Geodetic Center of Excellence, contribute to the third United Nations World Geospatial Information Congress, expand expert agreement through initiatives such as GeoEmpower webinar series, and advance work on emerging topics including knowledge graph, geospatial artificial intelligence, and the future of geospatial information ecosystem. Finally, we reaffirm our commitment to working collaboratively with the other thematic networks, regional committees, member states, and the wider UN system. By aligning our complementary strengths and avoiding duplication, we can collectively build a more capable, connected, and future-ready global geospatial community. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished delegate. representative, sorry, of the United Nations Geospatial Information Management Geospatial Society. We have heard the last speaker in the discussion on this item. I invite Mr. Guillaume Lesourd, Geospatial Information Officer at the Global Geospatial Information Management Section of the UNSD, to summarize the main points of this discussion. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Committee of Experts welcomed the report to the Secretariat and background reports compiled by the four thematic networks and appreciated their collective contributions and expertise in connecting research, academic excellence, private sector, UN system reach, and capacity development solutions to the program of work of the Committee of Experts, as well as their contribution to the Committee's regional to the Committee's regional committees and functional groups during the intersessional period. The Committee of Experts encouraged the thematic networks to further strengthen collaboration, coordination across their outreach activities, avoiding duplication, ensuring synergies and aligning with the strategic priorities. program of work of the Committee of Experts and to advance capacity development for the benefits of Member States, particularly developing countries, and advance the meaningful engagement of youth and young professionals. The Committee of Experts recognized the important contribution of the thematic networks in advancing sustainable development monitoring showcases, Innovation, exploring geospatial artificial intelligence, such as through the development of the United Nations Geospatial Network and its one UN Geospatial Situation Room, and for advancing national priorities and capabilities. The Committee of Experts encouraged the contribution of the thematic networks in enhancing geospatial awareness, advanced capacity development and education, and support implementation of frameworks for the benefits of member states. and further strengthen its collaboration with the United Nations Global Geospatial Centers of Excellence. The Committee of Experts requested the Secretariat, in collaboration with the Thematic Networks, to strengthen the engagement with the broader UN system with a view to anchoring geospatial information management further in its programmes and frameworks, and encouraged the Thematic Networks to further coordinate its activities with the Bureau, Secretariat and functional groups. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank Mr. Lesourd and all the participants for their valuable contributions to this item. The Committee has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 5. Before we proceed with agenda item 17. I would like to propose that we... All right, thank you. I suggest that we take a five-minute consultation break and that we suspend the meeting. The coffee corner closes at five. and that we suspend the meeting until until five sorry wait 38 4 38 5 minutes all right it's five minutes to 4 38 thank you let's be sure 4 38 5 minutes thank you the meeting is suspended.

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Okay, we're ready. Please take your seats, colleagues, delegates, distinguished members. Thank you. The meeting is resumed. The committee will now take agenda item, you must listen carefully, 17, entitled Contribution of the United Nations Global Geospatial Centres Away from Headquarters to Enhance Global Geospatial Information Management Arrangements. I invite Mr. Peng Li, head of the United Nations Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Center at UNSD to take the introducer seat, which he has already done. Under this item, the committee has before it a note by the Secretariat entitled Contribution of the United Nations Global Geospatial Centers Away from Headquarters to enhancing global geospatial information management arrangements contained in document E/C.20/2026/18 and its addendum. I now give the floor to Mr. Peng Li to introduce the document.

Thank you, Chair. Distinguished representatives, delegates, observers, and colleagues. The United Nations Global Geospatial Centers continue to demonstrate the value of a coordinated and complementary approach to strengthening global geospatial information management. Through their respective areas of expertise, the centers are supporting member states to strengthen national capabilities, improve institutional arrangement, and ensure that geospatial information contribute effectively to sustainable development. During the intersectional period, the United Nations Global Geodetic Center of Excellence in Bonn continued its work to strengthen the global geodesy supply chain a major achievement was the publication of the state of geodesy 2026 report the first comprehensive maturity assessment of the global geodesy supply chain the report provide a shared evidence base for member states space agencies the scientific community and the private sector to understand the dependencies and the vulnerability of the geodetic infrastructure and the positioning, navigation, timing, earth observation and other critical services. The center also expanded its capacity development program to reach 217 people from 100 countries with in-person training to support national geodesy governments and universities. The United Nations Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Center in Deqing continued to support member states in implementing the United Nations integrated geospatial information framework. Through regional and sub-regional workshops, leadership activities, webinars, and direct technical assistance, the center engaged more than 90 member states and supported six countries in developing country-level action plans. The center also conducted the first global assessment survey on the use and implementation of the framework, providing valuable evidence on progress, challenges, and the support required to accelerate practical implementation. Preparatory activities are ongoing for the establishment of the United Nations Global Geospatial Ecosystem Center of Excellence in Riyadh. Together, the centers in Bonn, Deqing, and Riyadh represent an increasingly important federated approach through which the committee of experts can provide targeted capacity development, technical assistance, knowledge exchange, and innovation support to member states. Their collective impact will depend on continued coordination, clear and complementary mandate, and sustained support from member state and partners. In today's discussion, the United Nations Global Geospatial Centers invited a committee of experts to reflect on key issues, including how to expand support for UNIGF country level action plan, and how to strengthen global geodetic governance and the global judiciary supply chain. Thank you.

I thank Mr. Lee. I now open the floor for the discussion on this item. I kindly remind all speakers of the time limit of two minutes, 90 seconds is preferred. I give the Floor to the distinguished representative of Cote d'Ivoire.

Thank you, Chair. I'm delivering the statement from UN GM Africa.

Africa welcomes the contribution of the UNGGCE at the UNGGKIC. The centers can translate global frameworks into technical assistance, leadership development, knowledge exchange, and stronger geodetic and geospatial capabilities. Africa supports scaling assistance for UNIGF country level action plans and the global geodesy supply chain.

Support should be demand driven, coordinated with UNDGAM Africa and relevant sub-regional institutions, and designed to leave sustainable national capabilities. Priority should be given to countries at early stage of action plan development, and to critical gaps in geotechnical infrastructure, data communications, analyses, and skills. The center should expand train-the-trainer models, regional expert networks, multilingual and low bandwidth knowledge resources, and partnerships with African universities and public institutions. Geographic balance should be visible in work plans, beneficiaries, advisory structure, and staff or experts agreement. Africa take notes of a state of geodesy 2026 report and supports practical bilateral multilateral agreements that strengthen observations, maintenance, data continuity, and original analysis. Agreements should have clear responsibilities and avoid creating dependency. Africa encourages voluntary contributions to the centers, including finance, segments, and partnerships, subject to transparency, equitable access, and member state oversight. Core services to developing countries should not depend only on the ability to pay. We ask that future reports include clear indicators on regional distributions, retained capacity, and implementation outcomes. The center will succeed when countries can operate stronger systems themselves.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Cote d'Ivoire. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Denmark.

Thank you, Chair.

Denmark welcomes the report and the progress achieved by the United Nations Global Geospatial Centers. and recognizes the growing importance to the implementation of the Committee's programme of work. As the centres' activities expand.

We believe that the growth should be accompanied by strong governance, clear mandates and effective oversight.

The centres must function as an integrated part of the UNGJ/M architecture, with priorities established by the Committee and coordinated through the Bureau and the Secretariat. Denmark is particularly concerned that the secretariat's limited resources may not be sufficient to provide the necessary strategic coordination and quality assurance. We therefore underline the need for a clear division of responsibilities, transparency regarding work plans and results, and close alignment between the Centre's activities and the Committee's agreed priorities. Finally, Denmark supports further action to strengthen and safeguard the global geodesy supply chain, including through improved international governance and concrete bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished delegate of Denmark and also for keeping well within 90 seconds. I now hand the floor to the distinguished representative of Austria.

Dear Mr. Chair, dear colleagues, Austria takes note of the delivered reports. While there is a growing global recognition of geodesy as essential infrastructure, that other pins satellite operations, telecommunications and climate monitoring, the current financing situation remains a critical concern. due to a lowest level and heavy reliance on ad hoc, voluntary or goodwill contributions. To stabilize this vital work and avoid supply chain integration, international stakeholders must urgently leverage mechanisms like in the document phase one of the joint development plan and the multilateral memorandum of understanding shown. and work towards sustainable long-term resourcing and formal governance. Let me point out Austria strengthens sustainable structures for the.

Geodetic supply chain by hosting the GIGOS coordinating office and the secretariat of the International Association of Geodesy, IAG.

In this roles, Austria supports the international coordination and communication of global geodesy and contributes to activities related to the implementation of UN General Assembly Resolution 69266 on the global geodetic reference frame for sustainable development. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Austria. I now hand the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will speak in Spanish.

Chile takes note of the report and the documents presented, and we congratulate the Global Center of Excellence in Geodesics and the collaborators for the excellent work done. We thank the GGKIC for the work in support of implementation of the IGIF and for their support in access to documents in the official languages of the UN, especially in Spanish, sorry, we would rather receive them in Spanish. We support the work to further enhance the work of member states. We have strengthened our national work through a national geodesics program and renewed the memorandum of understanding for better provision of geodesic services. We will encourage all member states and partners to continue supporting the work of the centers through alliances, technical cooperation, exchange of experts, and financing mechanisms that will help to support their sustainability and impact. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished delegate of Chile. That was close to 90 seconds. Next, I want to hand the floor to the distinguished delegate of Norway.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Norway welcomes the important contributions of the Centres of Excellence in supporting Member States and strengthening global geospatial capacity. Norway commends the publication of the State of Geospatial 2026 by the UNGGCE. The report provides an important evidence base for understanding the strengths and vulnerabilities of the global geodesy supply chain. As identified in the report, governance remains a key challenge for the resilience and long-term sustainability of the supply chain. Norway encourages the GGCE to continue supporting the Subcommittee on Geodesy and Member States in examining governance options through evidence-based analysis and structured consultations. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Norway for that very succinct input. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Argentina.

Argentina.

Takes note of the report and the preceding documents and at the same time we congratulate and thank the global centres of the UN Geospatial Information Centres and the directors and their teams for the important efforts and their dedication to the work undertaken in the intercessional period. We welcome the efforts undertaken in the area of capacity development and technical assistance linked to the UNIGIF, including GADZ, and highlight the coordination and cooperation that have been carried out in workshops on the margins of the annual regional sessions, and especially thank and are grateful for the support received for the recent IGF days in Latin America and Argentina. This type of regional, national, local, and global alignment and synergies has a leveraging effect, and we encourage its further continuation and replication elsewhere. We take note of the report on the state of GeoDZ 2026. This is the first comprehensive review and we highlight that it allows us to visualize these facts, which is necessary to continue strengthening the areas of innovation and development and government and strategy. The international strategic plan and its activities are very important for improving the supply chain, the GGSC. and the commitment of countries at all levels is fundamental. Argentina encourages countries to participate more actively as a fundamental tool for development of global GEO-DZ and as a result contribute to the development of geospatial information as a whole. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Argentina. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Germany.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Germany thanks the UN GGKIC and the UN GGCE for their active work and progress during the intersession period. We appreciate the effort of both centers, especially in conducting regional capacity development workshops and their intensive collaboration with member states all over the world. This supports the implementation of UNIGIF and strengthens the global geodetic supply chain. Germany expresses its gratitude to all partners of the UNGGC especially for Norway, Spain, France, Japan and Singapore for their virtual secondments and that contributes to the success of the Centre. Based on this positive experience, we invite Member States to consider supporting the work of the Centre through provision of secondments. We encourage the UNGGC to continue supporting the commission, sub commission of geodesy and member states on examining governance options. Germany joined the multilateral memorandum of understanding on strengthening the global geodetic supply chain and encourages all member states, governmental departments, agencies, private sectors, companies, et cetera, to consider joining or to express their willingness to cooperate. To ensure the continued and sustainable operation of the UNCC beyond 2030 and its activities in long term, Germany kindly invites member state to join forces and consider monetary contributions as the funding by Germany has so far been secured only until 2030. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Germany. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Japan welcomes the report and progresses on discussions regarding the future direction of the United Nations Global Geospatial Centres and expresses its appreciation for the efforts of all those involved in the operation of the UNGGCE and UNGGKIC. In particular, Japan commends and appreciates the UNGGCE for its work in preparing the State of Jersey 2026 report. The report provides a valuable assessment of the global Jersey separate chain and helps to clearly identify existing gaps and challenges. Japan remains committed to working with the center member seats and related stakeholders to support the sustainability and resilience of the global Jersey separate chain. Japan also welcomes the achievement of the capacity development initiatives and the outreach of led by the WGC. This effort has made a significant contribution to strengthening geodetic capacity and promoting awareness of the value of geodesy across regions. Japan contributes to the center by providing an expert of geodesy through a virtual secondment arrangement. Japan will continue to support the center, including through the provision of human resources. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Japan for the quick input. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Russian Federation takes note of the presented report and expresses its gratitude to the United Nations Global Centres of Excellence for the work carried out during the intersessional period and for their significant contribution to enhancing global geospatial information management arrangements. We greatly appreciate the progress achieved by the Global Geodetic Centre of Excellence in supporting the implementation of General Assembly resolution 69/266 We know the preparation of the first joint global geodesy development plan and the publication of the state of geodesy report. Both documents are aimed at strengthening the global geodesy supply chain, as well as supporting national capacity development and providing assistance to member states. Russian Federation wishes to emphasize that the fundamental elements of the global geodetic supply chain are operated by national geodetic agencies and institutions. These entities ensure the continuity of observations and the quality of geodetic data. Given the sovereign nature of these functions, in our view, the term coordination of global geodetic activities provides a more precise description of the functions envisaged rather than governance. This approach preserves the balance between global mechanisms and national mandates, which is essential for ensuring long-term participation for all member states. Recognizing also the need to preserve the scientific foundations of geodesy while increasing broader awareness of its role and contribution to sustainable development, We emphasize the importance of continued active cooperation between the GGCE and the International Association of Geodesy. The IAG possesses unique scientific expertise and its involvement is essential for ensuring scientific validity, the sustainability of global geodetic solutions and continuity of approaches in strengthening the global geodetic supply chain. We also know the development and implementation of the multilateral memorandum of understanding by DGCE. At the national level, the Russian Federation is currently considering the option of signing this memorandum. The Russian Federation is also grateful to the Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Center for its efforts in organizing and supporting numerous international meetings, sessions, and forums, including the 14th plenary session of UNGGMAP. and for conducting the global UN IGIF assessment survey. Given that the survey shows that the most common form of UN IGIF implementation is partial application, which suggests that additional efforts are needed and taking into account the existing experience of the GGCE in developing a memorandum of understanding which has proven effective as a practical tool for engaging member states Russian Federation proposed that the GGKIC consider developing a similar memorandum of understanding to enhance the engagement of member states and the implementation of the UNIGIF. Such an instrument would raise awareness among member states both about the UNIGIF and about the center's mandate and capabilities. It would broaden participation, strengthen commitments, and enhance the sustainability of this initiative. The Russian Federation supports the further development of the network of global centres and stands ready to participate in discussions on initiatives proposed by these centres. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I want to thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia.

Thanks, Mr. Chair. I will deliver our speech in Arabic.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. welcomes the report of the UN Global Geospatial Centres and commends the tangible achievements of both the UN Global Geodetic Centre of Excellence in Bonn and the Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Centre in Dheqing in supporting the implementation of ECOSOC resolution 24/2022 and the Committee's strategic framework for the period 2025-2030. These centers have become a fundamental pillar in translating the committee's decisions into practical support for member states. We also welcome the integrated approach adopted by the committee to ensure coordination among the centers, the secretariat, the regional committees, the working groups, and the thematic networks. In this context, the Kingdom is pleased that we are in the final stages of establishing the UN Global Geospatial Ecosystem Center of Excellence in Riyadh. in close cooperation with the secretariat of the UN Committee of Experts on GGIM. The centre will operate in complementarity with the centres in Bonn and Teiching and will contribute to supporting innovation, strengthening partnerships, facilitating knowledge exchange and providing technical support to Member States. The Kingdom reiterates its commitment to continuing close cooperation with the Committee, Member States and partners. We are committed to supporting the sustainability of the work of the Global Geospatial Centres, thereby contributing to strengthening national capacities, accelerating the implementation of global geospatial frameworks and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of France.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will speak in French.

France welcomes and appreciates the work carried out by the Global Centre of Excellence on Geodesy during the intersessional period. and we extend our compliments to the permanent and detached staff for the excellence of their activities. France wishes to congratulate the Centre of Excellence in particular for the design of the State of Judiciary report and the proposals that it contains. They require additional studies. We also compliment them for their work in close collaboration with the Committee on Alternatives for Governance for Global Geodesy. France reiterates its warm thanks to the German Federal Republic for hosting the Center of Excellence in Bonn and for their financial extension through 2030. France will continue its efforts to contribute to the activities of the Center of Excellence. Additionally, France welcomes the activities proposed by the Global Center on Knowledge and Innovation in China and for the preparatory work advanced from the United Nations Center on in Saudi Arabia. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of France. The next two inputs will come from India and then Slovenia. Please, after that, we will lock the list and then we can, I'll read out the list so we then have a defined number of speakers for this item. Thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of India.

Thank you, Chair. India appreciates the report of UNGGCE and UNGGKIC and commends their significant contributions to strengthening global geospatial information management. We also welcome the ongoing preparations for the United Nations Global Geospatial Ecosystem Center of Excellence. India recognizes the important role of UNGGC in advancing implementation of the UN General Assembly resolution on the global geodetic reference frame. We support continued implementation of the first joint development plan for global geodesy. India also appreciates UNGGKIC for supporting implementation of UN IGIF through technical assistance, country level action plans, leadership programs, and knowledge sharing initiatives, particularly for developing countries. India supports stronger collaboration among the UN Global Geospatial Centers, regional committees, and member states to strengthen capacity development and implementation. India remains committed to sharing technical expertise, training and knowledge exchange in support of global geospatial cooperation. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of India. I just want to remind delegates that we will lock the list after the next Therefore, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovenia. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Slovenia would like to join to all those Member States which expressing its appreciation for the valuable capacity development activities provided by both Centres of Excellence to support Member States in strengthening national capacities and advancing global cooperation. Slovenia strongly support all initiatives aimed at bringing the global geodesy supply chain higher onto national policy agendas. Furthermore, Slovenia support efforts by the United Nations Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Centre to engage even more actively with all regional committees, facilitating knowledge exchange, capacity development and the sharing of good practices, both within and across regions. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I thank the distinguished representative of Slovenia for a quick input. I will now read out the names of the I will close the list and then I will read so the list is Singapore China Ireland Belgium Turkey Kazakhstan FIG the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, the UNGGIM Academic Network, the International Hydrographic Association Organization, and the Pacific community. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Singapore.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Singapore welcomes the report of the United Nations Global Geospatial Centres and commends the considerable progress made both by the UNGGCE and UNGGKIC during the intersessional period. Singapore is pleased to reaffirm its active contribution to the work of the UNGGCE, including through virtual secondments and its participation in the multilateral memorandum of understanding on strengthening the global geodesy supply chain. Singapore also notes UNGCG's progress on developing a technical guidance document on joining land and sea, and we are happy to see international collaboration and commitment towards advancing geodesy at the land sea interface. Singapore welcomes the publication of the State of Geodesy 2026 report as the first comprehensive maturity assessment of the global geodesy supply chain. The finding that the supply chain scores only 2.3 out of five on the maturity scale and that governance and strategy is the lowest scoring domain underscores the urgency of collective international action. Singapore encourages member states to use this report as a shared evidence base to make the case for investment and stronger governance arrangements and supports the call for member states to strengthen national geodesy coordination bodies and agencies. Singapore also notes the Committee's previous expressed concern about limited Secretariat resources for oversight and coordination of the Centres, and encourages continued attention to ensuring clear internal oversight mechanisms and greater coherence in the mandates, roles and responsibilities of officers away from headquarters. Singapore encourages Member States that can do so to support the work of the UN Global Geospatial Centres to ensure continued expansion of their capacity development programmes. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Singapore. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

Thank you, Chair. China takes note of the positive progress made by the two global centers during the reporting period, appreciates their pragmatic work in capacity building, technical assistance, and knowledge sharing, and recognizes that the two centers have played an important role in implementing the ECOSOC resolution and promoting the coordinated development of global geospatial information governance. China attaches great importance to the supply chain vulnerabilities and governance gaps revealed in the status of geodesy 2026 report supports the strengthening of global geodesy governance stands ready to actively participate in the relevant cooperation under the multilateral MOU and encourages UNGGCE to continue carrying out regional training and policy outreach to help developing countries enhance their capacity in modern reference frame development. China acknowledges the efforts of UNGGKIC in the implementation and promotion of UN IGIF and country level action plans and considers that the results of the global survey provide an important reference for further optimizing the framework. China supports the center in expanding technical support to the least developed countries and small island developing states, and welcomes the center to continue hosting events such as the Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Week in China to facilitate international experience exchange. China will continue to support the development of the two centers, including the readiness to second experts to work at the centers to make greater contributions to strengthening global geospatial information management arrangements. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland.

This statement has been read out on behalf of UNGGIM Europe who appreciates the capacity development activities provided by both centres of excellence. We encourage member states to consider opportunities to contribute to the long-term sustainability of these centres of excellence. Within Europe, the global deodorant supply chain has been discussed at the level of the European Commission. We encourage Member States to bring the global geodesy supply chain on national policy agendas and to foster dialogue on this issue at the regional level as appropriate. UNGGIM Europe encourages the Global Geodesy Centre of Excellence to continue supporting the Subcommittee on Geodesy and Member States in examining governance options. We invite Member States to consider signing the multilateral memorandum of understanding of the UNGGCE and to explore opportunities for bilateral agreements to help strengthen and safeguard the global geodetic supply chain. UNGGIM Europe encourages the UNGGKIC to actively reach out to all regional committees to facilitate knowledge sharing activities in each region and across regions. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ireland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium.

Thank you, Chair. Belgium welcomes the work undertaken by the two centres of excellence. The 2026 report provides valuable evidence for raising policymakers' awareness about the importance of and vulnerability of the global geodis supply chain. Belgium supports multilateral cooperation and highlights the recent cooperation agreements signed between Benelux countries in the area of geodesy as a concrete example of stronger regional coordination. The continued work of the UN Global Geodetic Centre of Excellence, including on future governance arrangements, will require additional resources. Belgium encourages Member States to consider joining and contributing to the multilateral funding arrangement. In order to facilitate as broad participation as possible, Belgium recommends that the modalities for joining and contributing to this arrangement be shared with the Committee. Belgium intends to examine these modalities and would invite Member States to do the same. Belgium recognizes the value of capacity development and technical assistance activities in supporting the UN IGIF and the value of modernizing national geospatial reference systems. We encourage the centers to make the resources produced and the lessons learned easily accessible with a view to their reuse. We also support the planned activities for training of trainers and online learning and we encourage balanced participation from all five regions. Finally, Belgium would appreciate greater transparency regarding the governance of the centers, notably publication of the membership of their international advisory committees. We also request an update on the planned center in Saudi Arabia. including the latest available information. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished delegate of Belgium. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Turkey.

Thank you, Mr. Co-Chair, distinguished delegates. Turkey takes note of the report and appreciates the work of the UN Global Geospatial Centres in supporting member states through technical assistance, capacity development, and knowledge sharing. We recognize the complementary roles of the UN GGCE and UN GGKIC in advancing global geospatial information management and supporting national implementation. Turkey was also pleased to share its return on investment experience during the GGKIC organized GeoEmpower webinar launching the UNIGF sustainable funding guide. We also welcome UN GGKIC's webinars and capacity development activities on AI, earth observation, disaster risk reduction, and climate resilience. These activities provide practical opportunities for member states to exchange experience and strengthen national capacities. Turkey encourages the global geospatial centers to broaden practical training opportunities for young geospatial professionals. Such programs could make a valuable contribution to strengthening institutional capacity and advancing the implementation of the UNIGF across regions. We remain committed to strengthening global geospatial information management arrangements through constructive approach. Thank you, co-chair.

I thank the distinguished delegate of Turkey. That is not a timer for going over. You've done well. You said within your 90 seconds, Turkey. And I would like to give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kazakhstan.

Thank, co-chair. On behalf of our Republic of Kazakhstan, we would like to express our gratitude to UN Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Center and UN Global Geodata Center of Excellence. We participate in workshops and webinars organized by these centers. In September of last year, a seminar on UN IGIF was held in Astana with the support of UN Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Center. The participants were introduced into the principles of UN IGIF and the importance of implementing them in the management and development of geospatial information. We consider technical support in the regional region to be important. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished delegate of Kazakhstan. I think that was the second quickest submission except for Brazil. Thank you very much. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the International Federation of Surveyors.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. The International Federation of Surveyors, FIG, notes and commends the UN Global Geospatial Centers of Excellence for their growing contribution to strengthening global geospatial information management and capacity development. FIG especially appreciates the leadership and output of the Global Geo-X Center of Excellence in its advancement of global geodesy awareness through pan-sector engagement, and most recently its inaugural State of Geodetic Report, which objectively summarised the criticalities of the GGRF and their consequences. Finally, FIG's commissions and networks are fully committed to contributing through the UNGGCE partnership, supporting the global geodetic centre of excellence with joint training, professional development, knowledge exchange and outreach to maximise the reach and impact of geodetic capacity development. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of FIG. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Hi, I'm going to speak as Secretary of UN GGI Americas. UNGGIM Americas takes note of their report of the contribution of the United Global Geospatial Centers to strengthening global geospatial information management arrangements and expresses its appreciation for both and progress for both centers, the United Nations Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Center and the United Nations Global Geodetic Center of Excellence. UNGGIM Americas highlights the valuable contribution of the UNGGKIC to capacity development, technical assistance, and your special leadership in support of the implementation of the UN IGIF. In this regard, it considers it important to strengthen joint planning between the center and the regional committees through annual roadmaps aligned with the priorities and needs identified by member states, the findings of the global UNIGIGF assessment, and regionally agreed programs of work in order to maximize the impact of cooperation and capacity development initiatives. UNGGIM Americas takes note of the state of geodesy 2026 report and recognize the value of the first comprehensive assessment of the maturity of the global geodetic supply chain. It further emphasized the importance of strengthening its governance, sustainability and resilience through enhanced international coordination and cooperation among member states, recognizing the strategic role of geodesy as critical infrastructure supporting sustainable development, resilience and digital economy. UN-GIG Americas welcomes the progress achieved by the UN-GGCA through the first joint development plan for global geodesy and the multilateral memorandum of understanding to strengthen the global geodetic supply chains and encourage member state of the region to actively participate in this initiative, thereby reinforcing international cooperation, capacity development, and institutional commitment to a more robust and resilient global geodetic infrastructure. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished delegate of the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean. I now give the floor to the UNGGIM Academic Network representative. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Academic Network welcomes the report and commends the progress made by UN Global Geospatial Centers in supporting member states and advancing the global geospatial information agenda. We recognize the centers as important platforms for transforming global knowledge into practical support for member states. We therefore encourage the centers to continue serving as hubs that connect member states with academia, professional societies, and the private sector, helping translate innovation into practical capacity building and implementation in support of the UN IGIF. The academic framework, academic network appreciates the opportunities for some initial cooperation activities with UNGGKIC and looks forward to strengthening the partnership with all UN geospatial centers through research, education, training, and knowledge exchange. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the UNGGIM Academic Network. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the International Hydrographic Organization.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Uh, the IHO appreciates the report and the work being done by both centers. We particularly welcome the UNGGCE's work on joining land and sea and its development of a technical guidance document on integrating terrestrial and marine geodetic data developed with the support of national secondees from Singapore and Germany. We support routing this guidance through the Joint Working Group on Marine Geospatial Information for consultation. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the International Hydrographic Organization, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Pacific community.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Pacific community on behalf of the Pacific Geospatial and Surveying Council welcomes the reports of the United Nations Global Geospatial Centers of Excellence and commends their growing contribution to strengthening global geospatial information management arrangements. Pacific Island countries and the territories, SPC and PGSC acknowledges the actions from the centers with dedicated Pacific program from the UN GGCI and UN GCE to accelerate the development and implementation of the national UN IGIF country level action plans, geospatial strategies, geodetic modernization roadmaps across the region, and regional capacity development through regular Pacific focused leadership programs, technical workshops, train the trainer initiatives, peer learning networks, covering geodesy, geospatial governance, data integration, artificial intelligence, and digital public infrastructure. To further collaborate to strengthen Pacific geodetic infrastructure and the global geodetic supply chain through enhanced regional coordination, modernization of reference systems, and participation in global geodesy partnerships and initiatives such as joining Land2Sea. SPC Pacific Community, Pacific Geospatial Surveying Council, PGSC reaffirms commitment to work closely with the United Nations Global Geospatial Centers of Excellence. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished delegate of the Pacific community. We have now heard the last speaker in this discussion. I now invite Mr. Nick Brown, head of the United Nations Global Geodetic Center of Excellence of UNSD, to summarize the main points of the discussion.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Committee of Experts welcomed the report of the United Nations Global Geospatial Centres of Excellence and appreciated the significant work undertaken to enhance global geospatial information management arrangements, noting that the centres play a valuable role in translating global frameworks into technical assistance activities and outputs which develop capacity. acknowledged the attention paid to tailoring training to the needs of specific regions and emphasised the importance of continued demand-driven and tailored capacity development. In future capacity development initiatives, centres are encouraged to broaden training to include a joint work plan with regional committees, regional capacity development organisations, universities, and be mindful of the need to include young professionals to enhance institutional capacity. The Committee appreciated the efforts of the UNGGKIC to assist countries with the UN IGIF implementation of country level action plans, in particular in the Americas through its IGIF days and the focus on small island developing states and developing countries. Encourage the centres to continue to make capacity development materials and lessons learned easily available for reuse. and expressed support for planned training of trainers and e-learning activities, encouraging balanced participation from all five regions. Encouraged the centres to ensure geographic balance be visible in work plans, advisory committee representation, centre staff and experts secondees, and requested that the centres' governance models, membership and their international advisory committees be made available to the Committee of Experts. welcome the ongoing preparations of the UN Global Geospatial Ecosystem Center of Excellence and looks forward to having a federated system of centers to deliver on the needs of member states noted the growing recognition of geodesy as being essential to satellite operations telecommunications and climate monitoring and the risks associated the current financing situation, which is in critical concern due to heavy reliance on ad hoc voluntary and in-kind contributions, and encourage countries to stabilize this vital work and avoid supply chain degradation by transitioning towards a sustainable long-term resourcing with formal governance. Welcomed efforts from the UNGGC-EE to strengthen global governance arrangements and encourage the UNGGCE to remain involved in the process, which will be led by the Subcommittee on Geodesy to assist with evidence-based analysis and structured consultations. Welcome support from the centres on initiatives to join land and sea data. In particular, the UNGGCE technical guidance document on integrating terrestrial and marine geodetic data. and encourage the plan to consult with the UN GGIM IHO Joint Working Group on Marine Geospatial Information in close coordination with the International Hydrographic Organization when the document is being finalized. And finally noted the improved coordination of the centers will require additional resources, in particular to assist with oversight and strategic coordination of the center's activities to provide greater coherence in roles and responsibilities. encouraging Member States to consider providing resources to assist with this. To facilitate broader participation, Member States requested that the modalities for contributing to the centres be shared with the Committee. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank Mr. Brown and all the participants for their valuable contributions to our exchange of views on this item. The Committee has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 17. The committee will now turn to agenda item nine entitled Geospatial Information for Sustainable Development. I invite Ms. Mary Smyth, co-chair of IAEG SDGs Working Group on Geospatial Information and Statistics. and statistician at the Central Statistics Office of Ireland to take the introducer seat on the podium. Welcome, Mary. I just want, before we start with this item, I just want to indicate that the interpreters have graciously agreed to give us an additional 15 minutes this evening. So I've already closed the list. I'm joking. But we really need to be on time, please, for the matter, so we'll run till 6:15 this evening, to the dot. Thank you, Mary. Under this item, the committee has before it a note by the Secretariat entitled Geospatial Information for Sustainable Development, contained in document E/C.ES.100/2019/0000000. dot 20 slash 2026 slash 10 and its addendum. I now give the floor to Ms Smyth to introduce the document. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Distinguished representatives, delegates, observers, and colleagues. The Committee of Experts has before it the report on geospatial information for sustainable development. jointly prepared by the Working Group on Geospatial Information, that is the WGGI, of the Interagency and Expert Group on Sustainable Development Goal Indicators and the Secretariat. The present report aims to help reposition this agenda item From Agenda 21 in 1992 to the 2030 Agenda, Member States have consistently recognized the growing importance of geospatial information in realizing the ambition of global development agendas. Today, the global development landscape has expanded. We recognize that the committee has evolved in response to the Sendai Framework, the Pact for the Future and its Global Digital Compact, the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States, through developing frameworks and other normative resources, and is also starting to consider the implications of the SEVIA commitment and emerging discussions on beyond GDP. The report also provides an update of the Working Group on Geospatial Information, the WGGI. During the intersessional period, the Working Group continued to document country practices and promote methods for applying geospatial information to the production, monitoring and dissemination of sustainable development goal indicators. I want to offer my thanks to Colombia for their leadership of the working group, the WGGI, and I invite member states to express interest in assuming its vacant co-chair role. As the world enters the final years of the 2030 Agenda, the report emphasises the need to reposition geospatial information as a core component of national data ecosystems and an essential enabler of evidence-based decision-making. The 2030 Agenda offers direct lessons that underscore the need for the geospatial community to inform the data and information requirements of global development agendas up to and beyond 2030. We must be ready and represented in the remaining years up to 2030 and beyond. In this regard, the report recognizes that the value and opportunity of geospatial information is not always sufficiently understood outside the geospatial community. Action is therefore needed. Action directed toward policy leaders, planning and finance ministries, and the wider public. and focuses on societal benefits, improved public services, better decisions and economic returns. The policy brief series is highlighted as one practical mechanism for communicating this value through concise and policy relevant examples, but more must be done. Looking ahead, The report suggests that the committee may wish to consider its approach to this agenda item. This could include strengthening the value proposition of geospatial information, identifying priority messages for policy audiences, proposing cases for monitoring and reporting on priority sustainable development topics, and considering a renewed modality for the committee's work. It is proposed that this work could be entrusted to the Bureau, supported by regional leaders, with progress reported to the 17th session. Thank you, thank you Mr. Chair.

Thank you, Ms. Madh. I now open the floor for discussions on this item. I kindly remind all speakers of the time limit. Two minutes. We prefer less for the statements. We know that we won't get through all the statements, and I will indicate when we approach about 12 minutes past so that we can then suspend the session. I now give the floor. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay.

Gracias.

Thank you, Chair. The Oriental Republic of Uruguay thanks the Secretariat and the Working Group on Geospatial Information for the Sustainable Development Goals. for the report presented and expresses its support for efforts to strengthen the role of geospatial information as an essential enabler of sustainable development. We share the report's view that the real challenge is no longer simply to produce more data, but rather to transform it into better public policies, better decisions, and better outcomes focused on people. Based on Uruguay's experience, geospatial information is a key element for the localization of the sustainable development goals. SDG indicators should not be viewed solely as instruments for international reporting, but also as tools for understanding territorial dynamics, guiding public investments, monitoring outcomes, and supporting the design of evidence-based public policies. In this context, Uruguay is promoting the incorporation of the SDGs into land use planning and environmental management tools, while also encouraging the integration of geospatial information and SDG indicators into departmental governments as tools for monitoring, planning, evaluation, and territorial management at the local level. In this way, we seek to strengthen institutional capacities, so that territorial information supports decision-making at all levels of government. We believe that one of the key lessons of the 2030 Agenda is that it is not enough to know about national progress. It is necessary to understand where that progress is occurring, who is benefiting, and which territories require greater attention. The territorial dimension is essential for developing more effective, inclusive, and resilient public policies. For this reason, Uruguay supports strengthening collaboration among geospatial agencies, national statistical offices, sectoral ministries, subnational governments, and academia with the aim of building national data systems that enable the transformation of information into territorial intelligence in the service of sustainable development. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Denmark.

Thank you, Chair. Denmark welcomes the report and its more ambitious proposal to reposition geospatial information within the sustainable development agenda. Denmark considers the stronger anchoring of geospatial information within the broader frameworks of the United Nations, particularly the 2030 agenda and future development agendas, to be a key priority for the committee. Denmark welcomes a focused and time-bound process under the Bureau to reposition this agenda item, provided that it has a clear mandate, defined deliverables and an explicit division of work with the High Level Group of the Integrated Geospatial Information Framework, the IAEG-SDG, WGGEI, the Regional Committees and existing capacity development initiatives. The process should lead to a concrete and operational proposal for consideration at the seventeenth session, rather than establishing another permanent coordination layer. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Denmark for that quick input. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Thank you, Chair.

South Africa takes note of the report and commends the interagency and expert group on SDG indicators, the working group on geospatial information, and the secretariat for advancing the integration of geospatial information in support of sustainable development. South Africa takes note of the report and supports the positioning of geospatial information as an operational capacity for sustainable development. South Africa supports the establishment of a bureau-led team with a focused mandate, balance participation, and a clearly defined endpoint with a focus on the 2030 plus development agenda to assist in defining indicators for the monitoring of the agenda. Its priority should be a focused portfolio of decision-ready use cases that demonstrate how authoritative geospatial information improves outcomes and reduces the cost of fragmented data collection. The work should be coordinated with regional committees, the working group on geospatial information of the interagency and expert group on SDG indicators and national statistical systems on strengthening the communication of the value of geospatial information to policy and decision makers. South Africa proposes that the SDGs part of the 2028 high level forum where there should be a dedicated ministerial segment to communicate the value of geospatial information to monitor the SDGs. South Africa's development priorities include spatial transformation, infrastructure investment, service delivery and climate resilience. In advancing these priorities, geospatial evidence supports the continuous monitoring of our national spatial development framework and connects national objectives with place-based action. Thank you. Chair. I thank the distinguished delegate of South Africa. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Mexico.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will speak in Spanish. Mexico

Mexico recognizes that using geospatial information for sustainable development requires strengthening of the integration between statistical information, spatial administrative information, and land management using methodological frameworks that are consistent and interoperable that will allow us to generate more robust evidence for the formulation, implementation, and assessment of public policy. Additionally, we consider that the global methodologies represent a valuable complement to pursuing the goal of sustainable development, especially in those areas where there are still information gaps. Nevertheless, their use should be done while preserving recognition of the information produced by countries and promoting transparency as regards the provenance, coverage, quality, and scope of the sources used. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Mexico. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Ireland welcomes the report and in particular the recognition of the importance that location cannot remain a downstream mapping function, but must be embedded from the outset of the production of statistics. We would urge the Bureau to ensure that national statistics offices are represented on the proposed working group, should it be stood up, to facilitate the integration of the geospatial and statistics communities, as the report recognises. NSOs can help not only with the integration of geospatial data, but also by contributing in areas such as the production of indicators of success, as mentioned in the briefs provided for this item.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ireland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Armenia.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Armenia welcomes the report and recognizes geospatial data as essential to evidence-based decision for sustainable development. Our experience shows that its greatest value lies in connecting policy areas often addressed separately. The adaptation of Armenian law on special data in 2023 established clear responsibilities for managing geospatial information as a strategic national asset. Building on this foundation, we are integrated data on climate, environmental condition and infrastructure through our national geo portal. This enables public authorities to better understand the connection between environmental and socioeconomic factors, improve development planning, and respond more effectively during emergency. We have also strengthened the data exchange across government. Targeted training for officials combined with closer cooperation with academic institutions is helping us develop long-term professional capacity. Our next challenge is to ensure that geospatial data is routinely used across sectors, that its quality is continuously improved, and then national geospatial systems are more closely connected with the monitoring of the Sustainable Development Goals. Armenia encourages continued international cooperation, practical knowledge exchange, and capacity development. We stand ready both to share our experience and to learn from other Member States. Sustainable development requires direct actions where it is needed most. Geospatial information helps us identify those needed, measure change and make better decisions. Thank you, Mr Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Armenia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Thank you, Chair.

Chile takes note of the report and we value the work carried out by the working group on geospatial information and the secretariat to strengthen the role of geospatial information support of sustainable development. In line with our national experience, we highlight the importance of incorporating the geospatial dimension from the design of indicators and data production to promote effective interoperability across information systems across member states. Chile believes it is fundamental to set geospatial information as a strategic asset for public policy and decision-making, supporting the development of policy documents and other materials that will help to ensure its contribution to sustainable development. Similarly, we support the creation of a working team under the auspices of the Bureau of the Committee to strengthen their value proposal and use cases on priority issues. Finally, we also feel it is essential to strengthen collaboration between the and member states in the United Nations system and other relevant actors through coordination mechanisms, data exchange and capacity development supported by human and financial resources are sufficient to ensure results. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Chile. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.

Thank you very much, co-chair. Cuba is fully committed to achieving Agenda 2030 and the SDGs. In this regard, geospatial information is meaningful and significant insofar as it provides data and statistics that are relevant in the area of looking after the environment, agriculture, land use planning, and natural resources. In this regard, to guarantee the provision of data, we're working on modernizing our national network, together with seismic and marine centres. In this way, we are helping to contribute to the prevention of natural disasters. However, this important work has been hampered as a result of the energy blockade and other unilateral coercive measures and the blockade of the United States against our country. This limits access to advanced technologies, specialised equipment, software and international financing, all of this makes the modernization of our geospatial infrastructure more difficult and more expensive and it prevents our efforts at sustainable development. in this context, there have been blockages to our geospatial information systems that require fuel and many other things. All of this has led to delays in programs aimed at implementing the integrated framework in Cuba. Work on controls of geospatial information, topographic research, cadastral research, population and housing censuses have all been delayed. This increases the digital gap and makes it difficult for Cuba to contribute to geospatial management and geospatial information management systems. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Jamaica.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Jamaica thanks the Secretariat and the Working Group on Geospatial Information of the Interagency and Expert Group on SDG Indicators for their report and supports a renewed implementation focused approach to geospatial information for sustainable development. As a small island developing state, Jamaica considers location-based information essential for identifying development gaps, targeting limited resources and protecting development gains from climate related shocks. Jamaica continues to integrate the SDGs through Vision 2030 Jamaica, but our 2026 Voluntary National Review confirms that important data gaps remain. which underscores the need to bring statistical and geospatial information together earlier in the data production process and to improve timely, geographically disaggregated information since national averages can conceal significant differences amongst parishes, communities, and urban and rural areas. Jamaica encourages stronger engagement with the private sector, academia and civil society and supports a renewed approach that strengthens national ownership and preserves a strong focus on capacity development for small island developing states consistent with the Antigua and Barbuda agenda. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Jamaica. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium.

Mr. President.

The Kingdom of Belgium supports the proposal aimed at strengthening the role of geospatial information over the course of the last years of the 2030 Agenda and the post 2030 programme. The high level forum yesterday showed that what we do in our committee addresses real urgent needs, but that more accessible and repeated communications on this are necessary. Geospatial information should be better recognized from the outset as a crucial component of the development implementation follow up and assessment of policies. We thus favor the idea of the Bureau advancing this work and presenting a renewed approach to the committee at its 17th session. This should lead to a clear value proposal with concrete examples at a national level with a limited list of use cases on the priority theme of sustainable development. We encourage the Bureau to look to support from the working group on existing geospatial information and also to look to the expertise available within the regional committees and other existing bodies. If a specific task team is created, their mandate should be targeted and limited in time and their coordination with the existing working group should be clearly defined in order to avoid duplication or work on parallel tracks. Finally, the policy we've mentioned in the report should be easily accessible, if possible in several languages, in order to then be reused by member states and the regional committees in turn. I thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished delegate from Belgium. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegate from Fiji who has 90 seconds. Thank you.

Thank you, Chair. Fiji thanks the Secretariat and the co-organizing partners for the report on geospatial information for sustainable development. Fiji and the Pacific Island Development States reliable geospatial information is essential for building resilient capabilities and it ensures that services and investment reach communities and most in need. Chair, as member states continue their efforts to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, with only four years remaining, this presents a timely opportunity for UNGGIM as a key technical enabler to further position geospatial information as a strategic asset in shaping and supporting future global development priorities post-2030. In this regard, UNGGIM's contribution extends beyond its technical mandate. It also plays a critical role in ensuring that the value of geospatial information is fully recognized within broader policy and intergovernmental processes, highlighting its importance in advancing sustainable development outcomes. Fiji therefore views the 16th session as an important milestone for elevating this dialogue and establishing a clear pathway towards more substantive engagement at the 17th session and beyond. My delegation supports the report and encourages continued collaboration to ensure that geospatial information remains central to inclusive, resilient and for evidence-based decision sustainable development. I thank you, Chair.

I want to thank the distinguished delegate of Fiji. I'm going to give you a round of applause for that. However, I also want to thank at this moment the interpreters for that last input that you were interpreting. It must have been quite quick. We've now heard the last speaker in the discussion for this meeting. We will continue our discussion on this item tomorrow. The committee will meet again tomorrow, Thursday, 6 August, at 10:00 AM in this conference room and continue its considerations of agenda item nine entitled Geospatial Information for Sustainable Development. The members that are currently on the still to be presented have been locked in. Please be here tomorrow, otherwise you will forfeit your opportunity. We've got Tonga, Saint Lucia, Tokia, Brazil, ICA, Eurostat, FAO and FIG. Before I adjourn, I just want to thank the interpreters again for your gracious time and we want to thank you. The meeting is therefore adjourned.