Ministerial Segment of the High-Level Political Forum 2026 | High-Level Segment of the Economic and Social Council, 34th plenary meeting

Muy buenas tardes. Vamos a comenzar. Declaro abierta la 34ª sesión del Consejo Económico y Social.

Welcome to the 4th session of 2026. We are on item 5 of the agenda. Distinguished representatives, I invite the council to continue its consideration of agenda item 5, sub-item A, to continue the general debate of its high-level segment, which also serves as the general debate of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Before giving the floor to the first speaker on my list, I would like to remind delegations that the time limit for interventions is 5 minutes. Please quieten the room. Again, I remind delegations that they have 5 minutes of speaking time for statements made on behalf of groups and 3 minutes for statements by individual delegations. To keep track of the time you have remaining, you will see a countdown clock on the screen to alert you when it is time to conclude. If speakers exceed the time limit, they will be automatically deactivated. I apologize in advance if speakers are cut off. This measure is being taken to ensure that all speakers can deliver their statements in the limited time available for the general debate. Thank you in advance for your understanding. Full versions of longer statements can be submitted to the Secretariat in writing. I now give the floor to His Excellency Her Excellency, Minister of Planning and External Cooperation of Haiti, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. My delegation fully aligns with the Declaration of CARICOM. Which just delivered 2 months ago before the Security Council, the Prime Minister of Haiti recalled that without security, restoration of the authority of the state, and without regaining control over spaces that are currently controlled by violence, there can be neither lasting stability nor a credible transition. Today at ECOSOC, Haiti is continuing with this message Stabilization must pave the way to recovery. Security must translate for populations into employment, essential services, infrastructure, improved territorial cohesion, and renewed trust in public action. Haiti is undergoing an unprecedented crisis. More than 1.3 million people have been displaced within the country, including more than 680,000 children. About 6 million people need humanitarian assistance. More than 1,000 schools have closed, and more than 5.8 million people are facing acute food insecurity. These figures show that security, development, public investment, territorial resilience, resilience, and social cohesion go hand in hand in the same battle. This is a humanitarian, peace, and development tech nexus. Restoring security, investing in development— these must all go together if we are to invest in a lasting peace. The SDGs examined this year— water, energy, infrastructure, resilient cities, and partnerships— directly correspond with our national priorities. Investing in agriculture, water, energy, local infrastructure, and community employment also means building peace. Haiti also plans to step up its follow-up on the 2030 Agenda. After having included the SDGs in its national framework since 2015, our country is now looking forward to its next voluntary national review, allowing us to frankly take stock of progress, delays, and limitations in order to more clearly orient our national planning toward tangible results. Haiti Private partnerships need partnerships that finance national priorities, strengthen public institutions, and link urgency to stabilization and development. This must be mutually reinforcing. They must be more coordinated than they are dispersed. For its part, Haiti assumes its responsibility. Recovery requires strong governance, public discipline, coordination, accountability, and a real results-oriented culture. President, stability without development is fragile. Development without security is an illusion. And partnerships without results lose legitimacy. Haiti does not ask for an exceptional form of treatment. We are simply asking for coherent treatment for our country's recovery as a country in crisis.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished Minister of Planning of Haiti for that statement. I now give the I now give the floor to His Excellency, the Minister of the Economy and Integration of Congo.

I wait.

Oh, uh, Monsieur le Président, Excellencies, distinguished ministers, participants, I thank the UN first and foremost for holding this high-level political forum, which represents a crucial milestone toward accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs. 5 years before a deadline in a fragmented world full of crises and exogenous shocks, we are taking stock of our SDG implementation. We have reached 52.8% completion, showing its importance for our public policy. Progress is visible. A large number of the population have access to healthcare and food, drinking water. We are also engaging in energy transition, with 67% of the population last year using clean energy for cooking compared to 2015. We have major progress made, including building housing, developing our transport networks, and modernization of energy infrastructure, digital infrastructure in rural and urban zones to build sustainable cities. Over the past few years, we have made an ambitious effort toward economic and governance reforms, allowing us to consolidate and stabilize our macroeconomic situation and return to the path of sustainable growth. Ladies and gentlemen, the March 2026 presidential elections led to the reelection of Mr. Yoon Suk Yeol, the President— the Prime Minister, Head of State, allowing for us to implement a new programmatic framework, including a long-term development framework with the Congo Vision for the Future, in order to accelerate progress toward development, build a diversified economy that's also competitive and resilient, that is based upon sustainable use of our resources, development of human capital, modernization of the state, as well as the attractiveness of the country. With our 2031 plan, we Planned to invest almost $40 billion in our economy to reduce poverty and create jobs for youth, as well as to make the SDGs a reality for every citizen of Congo. The Congo therefore reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism and renews its commitment to working together with all of its partners and ask them to invest in our 2027-2031 plan to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda of the UN. Thank you.

I would like to thank the Minister of Economy of the Congo, and I now give the floor to His Excellency, the Minister of Financing and Development of Liberia.

Mr. President, distinguished delegates, Liberia aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the African Group and Group of Least Developed Countries as we gather 5 years before the 2030 deadline. Liberia was honored to have presented its second voluntary national review, reaffirming our commitment to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and our determination to accelerate progress towards the SDGs. For Liberia, the SDGs are not simply global aspirations. They are the foundation for building a peaceful, resilient, and prosperous nation. Despite a legacy of conflict and successive global crises, Liberia continues on a path of democratic consolidation and economic recovery. Our principal vehicle for accelerating implementation is our Agenda for Inclusive Development 2025-2029, which aligns with the SDGs The AU Agenda 2063 and the Doha Programme of Action. Through investments in agricultural roads, rule of law, education, sanitation, and tourism, we are advancing inclusive growth while prioritizing youth and women's empowerment, climate resilience, renewable energy, and sustainable infrastructure. Mr. President, Our efforts to scale up the mobilization of our domestic resources must be complemented by stronger international partnerships. Developing countries require greater access to concessional finance, effective debt relief, enhanced technical assistance, and the fulfillment of ODA commitments. We therefore support the Secretary-General's call for an ambitious SDG stimulus to help bridge the financing gap and accelerate implementation. The findings of our 2nd Voluntary National Review underscore both the progress we've made and the challenges that remain. Liberia remains steadfast in its commitment to leave no one behind. Together, through renewed global solidarity and collective action, we can deliver on the promise of the 2030 Agenda. I thank you.

Doy las gracias al.

I thank the Minister for Financing and Development of Liberia, and I now give the floor to. His Excellency, the Minister of Information of Lebanon.

President, Excellencies, it is an honor for me to convey the greetings of His Excellency President General Joseph Faoun and to reiterate our commitment to the agenda 2030. This discussion is particularly significant to Lebanon. It is in the heart of its recovery. Indeed, water, energy, infrastructure, resilient cities, and partnerships are all important issues. In the field of water, we have adopted our national strategy and we're working with the World Bank to improve our water services to 1.8 million citizens.

In the field of energy, we have launched our Renewable Energy Plan 2025-2030 to increase the share of renewable energies to 40% by 2030.

We are working with the World Bank through the Project LEAP We also work tirelessly in reconstructing our municipalities and town in view of the pressures that Lebanon has to withstand.

Lebanon that hosts the highest rate of refugees.

Lebanon and Yes, I agree.

The country, during its development process, has faced terrible strife. We have lost 4,500 martyrs.

12,500 people were injured, among them women, elderly, and children, in addition to rescue crews. As Minister of Information, I guarantee that confidence building is no less important than reconstruction. This is why we are replacing our information law with provisions that enshrine freedom of speech, because free information, responsible information, fights misinformation and hatred.

We call for a partnership based on a more flexible financing for the countries emerging from crisis. Lebanon needs a partnership to overcome the crisis, not to manage it.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Laos People's Democratic Republic on behalf of ASEAN.

ASEAN remains steadfast in its commitment to fulfill an effective implementation of 2030 Agenda. ASEAN reaffirms the importance of strengthening synergies between relevant commitments on sustainable development, including ASEAN 2045, Our Shared Future, and the 2030 Agenda, The Pact for the Future. And its annexes, as well as the SEVIR commitment. Together, these frameworks provide a practical roadmap for building a resilient, inclusive, innovative, and future-ready ASEAN while accelerating the progress towards Sustainable Development Goals. In this regard, ASEAN continues to promote synergies between ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and the 2030 Agenda as outlined in the Complementarities Initiative 2.0 to advance SDG implementation and support realization of Green ASEAN. ASEAN recognizes that access to clean water and sanitation is fundamental to human dignity, public health, food security and nutrition, climate resilience, and sustainable economic growth. We remain committed to strengthening integrated water resource management Improving water governance, expanding access to safe drinking water and sanitation, and enhancing regional cooperation to strengthen water security and resilience. ASEAN remains committed to advancing just, orderly, and inclusive energy transitions that uphold energy security, affordability, reliability, sustainability, and resilience. We will continue expanding renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, strengthening regional power connectivity, and mobilizing sustainable investments. ASEAN is fostering a comprehensive, competitive, and resilient regional economy by investing in equality, infrastructure, digital transformation, science, technology, and innovation. We are strengthening digital connectivity, resilient supply chains, sustainable industrialization, and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises. As one of the world's fastest urbanizing regions, ASEAN continues to strengthen sustainable urban planning, climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, resilient infrastructure, and nature-based solutions. We recognize that cities must remain the engines of economic growth and innovation while ensuring equitable access to housing, transport, public services, and green spaces. ASEAN recognizes that digital transformation must be inclusive, secure, and human-centered. We will continue to bridge digital divides, strengthen digital literacy and skills, promote trusted digital ecosystems, and foster the responsible development and governance of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. ASEAN reaffirms the importance of revitalization of global partnership by strengthening cooperation among governments, regional and international organizations, international financial institutions, the private sector, academia, civil society, and other stakeholders. We underscore the need to mobilize adequate, predictable, and accessible financing, enhance capacity building, to facilitate technology transfer and promote South-South and triangular cooperation to accelerate the SDGs implementation. ASEAN reaffirms its commitment to an open, inclusive, transparent, rule-based, and effective multilateral system with the UN at its core in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter. We recognize the mutually reinforcing relationship between regionalism and multilateralism and remain committed to working with all partners to implement internationally agreed commitments and address today's interconnected global challenges. ASEAN stands ready to work with the UN and all partners to accelerate urgent and transformative action towards achieving the SDGs by 2030. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the Foreign Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic on behalf of ASEAN. I now give the floor to Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria.

President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, allow me at the outset to thank you for holding this forum, which is taking place Thank you. At a very turbulent time, and Algeria is presenting its second voluntary review at this time, which demonstrates that sustainable development is an essential element focused upon citizens to ensure that no one is left behind. We chose our social model guided Thank you. Thank you very much. The agenda was set by our President based on 5 pillars: strengthening economic diversification and a dynamic of growth beyond the hydrocarbon sector; secondly, strengthening services— digital services; thirdly, involving youth and women in economic activity; By supporting the knowledge economy and helping to create 13,000 posts for young people. Women make up 60% of university graduates today, and their president— their presence in the business world is significant. Fourthly, the energy transition to produce 15,000 megawatts of renewable energy by 2035 and developing green hydrogen sources. And fifthly, water security. We have expanded our capacity for desalinization to cover 40% of needs. Regardless of level of ambition, we— everything is affected by the international situation, and that is why we support addressing the root causes of crises to guarantee development possibilities that are equitable and to structurally reform the international financial system to reduce debt burdens to benefit developing countries. We must work together to bridge the digital gap and to create an international and global system for AI that is responsible and just. We will continue our efforts in this area through the— through our regional initiatives, including the African Conference for Youth, which has become the gold standard in terms of— in Africa for that topic. We are also striving to be present at an event that will take place on July 15th on the status of our work. In closing, we would like to reaffirm our commitment to sustainable development, which is not a gift; it is a legitimate right and a collective responsibility.

National Community of Broad African Affairs for Algeria. And now I give the floor to Vice Minister of National Development Planning, Vice Head of National Development Planning Agency of Indonesia.

Excellencies, delegates, Indonesia takes the floor today with conviction, solidarity, and unwavering belief that sustainable development remains humanity's most powerful agenda. As we move closer to 2030, our greatest challenge is no longer defining our ambition, It is delivering real and measurable results. A world marked by geopolitical tension, climate shock, disrupted supply chain, and fiscal constraints has slowed progress. Yet these challenges do not diminish the value of multilateralism. They make it more essential than ever. Development cannot flourish without trust, and trust cannot endure without genuine partnership. The Pact for the Future provides Our common direction. Our shared responsibility now is to translate that vision into meaningful improvement in our people's lives. Indonesia sees 4 priorities. First, transformation. We are advancing a just energy transition by expanding clean energy and strengthening resilient energy systems. We also believe that critical minerals should become engines of industrialization. Quality jobs and higher value creation. The transition is not only about reducing emissions, it is about creating shared prosperity. Second, equity. Indonesia has reduced extreme poverty to below 1%, achieved almost universal electricity access, and expanded health protection to more than 98% of our population. We continue investing in water sanitation, resilient communities and stronger protection for vulnerable groups, because development must benefit everyone. Third, innovation. We are mobilizing blended finance, Green Sukuk, and SDG bonds while accelerating digital transformation. Through the SDGs Entrepreneur Center and our network of university-based SDG centers, we are turning research and innovation into practical solutions that improve people's lives. Finally, unity. Indonesia is strengthening the Voluntary National Review as a tool for accountability and acceleration, while expanding South-South and triangular cooperation to share knowledge, technology, and experience. Indonesia calls for renewed global partnership that expands affordable finance, promotes responsible technology transfer, strengthens resilient value chains, and rebuild trust, among others. We must move beyond being merely a community of nations towards becoming a community of shared strategic interests where cooperation delivers tangible benefits for all, because achieving the SDGs is not measured by the promises we make but by the results we deliver together. I thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Thanks, Vice Minister for National Development Planning, Vice Head of National Development Planning Agency.

And now I give the floor to the State Secretary for International Cooperation from Spain.

Thank you. Good afternoon, Mr. President. We find ourselves in a context characterized by geopolitical fragmentation, a rise in inequalities, the climate crisis, and increasing financing needs. Nevertheless, we know that progress is possible. With political will, effective international cooperation, and an adequate mobilization of resources, progress— significant progress— can be achieved. Therefore, our main message is clear: we do not need less cooperation, but rather more and better cooperation; not less multilateralism, but rather a multilateralism that is more effective, inclusive, and results-oriented. Spain fully welcomes the Secretary-General's call to promote transformative equitable, innovative, and coordinated actions in order to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs. We must overcome sectoral approaches and move towards integrated responses that recognize the interconnectedness of the challenges of our time. We need institutions that are capable of coordinating policies, establishing partnerships, and mobilizing investments. Therefore, we reiterate that we bank on Multilateralism as a priority in our foreign policy. The President of the Government of Spain presented the Seville Plan in order to strengthen multilateralism, which is structured around 3 pillars: shelter, reinforcement, and reform. A plan that today we are implementing with the inauguration of the House of the United Nations in Madrid. And we are strengthening our contributions to the budget with the development entities that we work with, as well as our contributions to global health, humanitarian action and climate financing. Financing is a fundamental condition to achieve the SDGs. Spain reaffirms its commitment to ODA and the goal of reaching 0.7%, which is enshrined in our cooperation law. In fact, in 2024, our ODA rose by 12% and 13% in 2025, in a context of considerable global cuts. We advocate for the integrity of ODA, as well as the principles of effectiveness in cooperation on the basis of alignment and appropriation grounded in transformative alliances and impact in partner countries. But we are also aware that ODA by itself is not enough to close the financing gap. We consider that the civil commitment adopted in FFD4 is a fundamental and balanced roadmap that is geared towards action, so we have to focus on implementing it. Spain will continue supporting multilateral solutions that multiply our impact on the national and local levels, and therefore the Joint SDG Fund as well as the system of UN Resident Coordinators are crucial for us. The SDGs continue to be our most ambitious and universal common framework. Reaching them is a matter of justice, solidarity, and collective credibility.

The microphone is cut off.

I thank the Secretary of State for International Cooperation of Spain.

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, today we face the more complex global challenges than ever before. Triple planetary crisis, persistent armed conflicts, as well as economic shocks. To resolve the pressing issues of our time, we need a truly global platform for our work— the United Nations. The Agenda 2030 agenda is seriously off track and requires urgent measures to ensure the delivery. We also need to ensure that international law, including the UN Charter, is respected everywhere. Armed conflicts around the world continue to drain the critical resources needed for sustainable development. Russia's invasion of Ukraine, conflicts in the Middle East, and the war in Sudan have widespread global consequences in our interconnected world. Gender equality and investing in free and inclusive education lie at the heart of Finland's own development story over the past 80 years. Gender equality is a human right. All SDGs can only be truly fully realized when women and girls have equal access to opportunities, resources, and decision-making. The SDGs are deeply interlinked. For example, ensuring access to clean water and safe sanitation boosts gender equality by enabling women and girls to attend work and school. Finland underlines the importance of education as the backbone for prosperity of any nation. It's also required to build reliable institutions which can in turn create trust and stability in societies. To accelerate the SDGs, government measures and leadership are essential. Concrete actions, however, also need to be taken by companies, civil society, cities and municipalities, along with citizens. A whole-of-society approach can drive the necessary changes to boost SDGs implementation. It's not too late to act. A reformed, more inclusive United Nations is better equipped to spearhead action. Finland resolutely supports a rule-based multilateral cooperation where we can together design a more determined path towards sustainable development. Thank you.

My thanks, Vice Minister of Climate and Environment of Finland. And now give the floor Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lao People's Democratic Republic in national capacity.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Lao PDR allies itself with the statements delivered by G77 and China and ASEAN respectively. I would also like to make the following remarks in my national capacity. With only 5 years remaining until the target date of the 2030 Agenda, the world stands at a decisive moment. As highlighted by the SDG Progress Report, global implementation remains significantly off track, progress has been uneven, and insufficient, with several targets stagnating or regressing amid compounded global challenges. At the national level, the Lao PDR remains firmly committed to implementing the 2030 Agenda through its full integration into our successive National Socioeconomic Development Plans. Despite a challenging external environment, The government continues to pursue macroeconomic stability while advancing inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development. Notable progress has been made, which includes expansion of access to basic services, ongoing investments in transport connectivity, digital infrastructure, and enhanced regional integration. These developments demonstrate that Great sustainable policy commitment supported by effective partnerships can yield tangible and meaningful progress. At the same time, significant challenges persist. Accelerated efforts are required to improve food security, nutrition, quality education, healthcare, water and sanitation, sustainable industrialization and innovation. Closing these gaps will require sustained investment in human capital, productive capacities, and climate resilience, underpinned by reliable data systems and evidence-based policymaking to ensure effective implementation and monitoring. Looking ahead, the Lao PDR will present its 4th VNR next year, 2027, to HLPF. For the first time, this will include voluntary local review, component to better reflect subnational progress and local realities. The report will provide comprehensive assessment of achievements, remaining challenges, and transformative policy solutions. As we prepare to advance towards the 2027 SDG Summit, the Lao PDR calls for renewed global solidarity and commitment. And a more international development architecture that can respond to addressing the current needs and challenges that we are facing today through strengthened partnership.

Thanks, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lao People's Democratic Republic. Ahora tiene la palabra el.

And now I give the floor to the Minister. Minister of Planning and International Cooperation for Development of Guinea.

Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen, I would like, before I begin, to greet you on behalf of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Guinea. who is encouraging us and wishes us much success in our work. Our delegation aligns with the statement made by the brotherly countries on behalf of the African Group. President, the adoption in the GA of Resolution 70/1 in September of 2015 gave us new guidelines when it comes to our common interests as an international community in the implementation Sustainable Development Goals. Sustainable Development Goals. In consideration of this responsibility, in 2015 our government drafted our Vision 2040 as well as our reference program in the interim and our latest program, the Program for Responsible Socioeconomic Development 2040, whose implementation began in January of 2026. President, dear friends, the process to elaborate our national voluntary Report 2026 was able to help us establish the progress carried out in terms of the implementation of the SDGs, including the 5 priority SDGs of this session— access to food, as well as a rise in access to energy services with a hydraulic capacity of many megawatts. Today, dear friends, our GDP Has risen considerably. So our cities and settlements are covered in terms of SDGs, and we have under— we have carried out major efforts to amplify our fiscal base and to formalize gradually our economy, which will allow us to reach the SDGs by 2030. President, the Republic of Guinea reiterates its commitment to the collective efforts of the international community in the acceleration of the implementation of Agenda 2030. And with respect to this, we support the process that is currently underway, such as the Summit for the Future, which will be a major opportunity to adopt the Pact for the Future and its annexes, but especially to make sure that the international community Adopt the ministerial declaration during this meeting. And in this dynamic, Guinea has registered major progress in the creation and establishment of the International Institute to Develop South-South and Triangular Cooperation. It will be headquartered in Conakry, and we welcome the support given by the G77 and the Chinese government— around $7 million, which will be added to a campus of 7 hectares provided by the government of Guinea. And we would like to launch an appeal to different interlocutors to support this initiative. President, the Republic of Guinea would like to reiterate its commitment to continue to support the international community in the implementation of the SDGs.

The microphone is cut off. I thank the Minister of Planning and International Cooperation and Development of Guinea.

The Deputy Minister in the Presidency of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation of South Africa.

Your Excellency the President, We enter this debate in this month of July as we approach the 18th of July as an inspirational day declared by the United Nations as Nelson Mandela International Day. The 18th of July 2026 is etched in our collective memory and international calendar as a milestone day on which we should internationally reconnect to the values of humanity and peaceful coexistence in the spirit of our national hero and international icon. With only 4 years remaining until the 2030 deadline for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, the global community faces urgent responsibility of accelerating action to achieve these goals. On our part, South Africa reaffirms firmly the commitment to the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We recognize that sustainable development requires a balanced approach that advances economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability simultaneously. We therefore continue to strengthen our efforts to reduce poverty, inequality, and unemployment while promoting sustainable industrialization climate resilience, food security, energy transition, and social protections. South Africa remains committed to ensuring that no one is left behind, particularly women, youth, persons with disability, rural communities, and other vulnerable groups. Mr. President, economic inclusion, gender equality, climate resilience, social protection, Youth empowerment, digital transformation, and environmental sustainability are not opposing aims. They are complementary foundations of sustainable development. The expansion of broadband infrastructure and digital access is creating new opportunities for innovation, education, and economic participation. At the same time, we acknowledge that significant challenges remain. South Africa recognizes that achieving the SDGs requires stronger implementations, partnership, and financing. We continue to prioritize infrastructure investment and maintenance. Energy transition initiatives, industrial development, youth employment, skills development, and climate resilience are critical. As we move closer to 2030, we must accelerate the implementation through bold leadership, policy coherence, innovation, and strengthen partnership. Mr. President, South Africa also looks forward to presenting its next Voluntary National Review in 2027. This will provide an important opportunity to reflect on our progress, challenges, and lessons learned, and the measures being implemented to accelerate progress towards SDGs within the framework of our National Development Plan and the African Agenda 2030. We end by acknowledging that our National Development Plan is part of South Africa's policy evolution, which began with Nelson Mandela's Reconstruction and Development Plan after South Africa's liberation in 1994. In conclusion, South Africa reaffirms the importance of solidarity, inclusive growth, and sustainable development that leaves no one behind. I thank you.

I thank the Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation of

Thank you, Mr. President. Excellencies, since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda, the Sustainable Development Goals have delivered meaningful results at scale, demonstrating their transformative potential. However, as we approach the 2030 deadline, This year's Sustainable Development Goals report makes clear that global progress on the SDGs remains off track. In the face of overlapping social, economic, and environmental crises, decades of hard-won development gains are at risk, and no country can address these challenges alone. Against this backdrop, strengthened global cooperation and effective multilateralism grounded in the principle of leaving no one behind are essential to accelerating progress towards SDGs. Distinguished delegates, Georgia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda. This commitment is reflected in our 3 volunteer national reviews presented in 2016, 2020, and 2024, respectively. Building on these efforts, we are pleased to note that Georgia, in partnership with the United Nations, recently hosted the 2026 United Nations Public Service Forum in Tbilisi, bringing together representatives from more than 100 countries to exchange experiences on citizen-centered and innovative public service delivery, thereby reinforcing international efforts to advance SDG 16. Ladies and gentlemen, SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation is fundamental to safeguarding public health. Strengthening food and energy security, protecting ecosystems, and fostering inclusive economic growth. In this context, Georgia has fully institutionalized the development of the river basin management plans and is modernizing its irrigation and draining system to promote efficient water use and strengthen resilience to climate change. Furthermore, Georgia is on track to provide 100% of the urban population with access to safe and reliable drinking water by 2025.

Advancing renewable energy remains one of Georgia's key priorities. To this end, Georgia adopted its Green Hydrogen Strategy in 2024, followed by a Green Hydrogen Roadmap and Action Plan in 2025 to translate this vision into concrete actions. Ladies and gentlemen, while speaking of the achievements and progress taking place in my country, we regret that due to Russia's illegal occupation of

Before giving the floor to the next speaker, I would like to remind that the speaking time is 3 minutes. After 3 minutes, your microphone will be turned off.

The floor is to the Secretary of State for Planning of Angola.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, it is a great honor for the Republic of Angola to participate in this high-level political forum on sustainable development, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs. The theme of this year's forum is of particular relevance to Angola as the country remains firmly committed to implementing transformative structural reforms. This year's review of the SDGs 6, 7, 11, and 17 is particularly significant as it focuses on key areas that are essential to advancing economic transformation, social inclusion, and the resilience of our societies. In 2025, Angola presented its 2nd Voluntary National Review, marking important milestones that enable us to share the progress achieved, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and reaffirm the country's strong commitment to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Angola's progress demonstrates that sustainable development requires an integrated and coherent approach guided by a long-term vision focused on delivering tangible results. Under SDG 6, Angola continues to expand access to safe drinking water and sanitation through major strategic investments that will provide access to clean water for more than 10 million people by 2027. Under SDG 7, the Angola Solar Program stands as a national best practice, expanding access to electricity through renewable energy. Strengthening energy security and advancing a more sustainable energy transition. Today, Angola's energy mix consists of 61.6% hydropower, 31.8% thermal energy, and 6.6% solar energy, reflecting the country's progress in diversifying its energy sources and advancing its energy transition. Under SDG 9, The development of the Lobito Corridor demonstrates how strategic infrastructure investments can foster regional integration, facilitate trade, attract private investment, and create new opportunities for sustainable economic growth in Angola and across Southern Africa. At the same time, digital transformation remains a strategic priority for the government as a key driver of competitiveness, more efficient public services, and innovation. With regard to SDG 11, Angola continues to address the challenges arising from rapid urbanization by strengthening territorial planning policies, promoting integrated urban development, and improving the delivery of essential public services. These efforts are being reinforced through strong international partnerships, adequate financing, and increasingly effective international cooperation. Excellencies, Angola therefore reaffirms its commitment to continue working closely with the United Nations and all of our partners. I thank you.

Secretary of Strategic Analysis for Development of Guatemala.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Guatemala comes to this forum from its land, from communities in the north and the west where the state has finally begun to Thank you. We come from a notion that we want to share. Agenda 2030 is not failing due to a lack of plans or diagnostics. It is slow because of government transitions. We can see it in our regional report. The only goal where no target is stuck or actually moving backwards is SDG number 7, energy. This is the result of decades of sustained investment beyond political cycles, where public policy survived different government administrations and then the region was able to move forward. And when each administration began from scratch, the region actually moved backwards. A 15-year agenda executed in fragments of 4 years is designed to fail. Guatemala will respond to this by updating its national development plan With a timeline of 2050. The name is no coincidence— K'atun. This is the unit that Mayas used to measure time in cycles of 20 years, longer than the life of any particular head of state or government. Centuries ago, the ancient Mayans understood what seems to escape us today. We need to plan on the state's timeline. not on a particular administration's timeline. So we're not just planning for our territories, but we're planning from them using indigenous knowledge systems and incorporating them into the vision for our country and with a holistic vision where water and energy sustain productive infrastructures and where we have resilient cities, which is the topic under review in this forum. And this long-term approach can be seen through evidence. We have vital For instance, we're using cartography technology and AI in order to direct critical infrastructure towards territories that have historically been excluded from development. In the face of multidimensional poverty, we have an intersectorial strategy that articulates 11 public institutions that work through our public registry of homes. Guatemala would like to address the partnerships for SDG 17 with petition.

Thank you.

We would like to ask for support to modernize our national statistical system and an agile financial architecture that is aligned with UN 80. Excellencies, Tikal shows the greatness of Mayan civilization. Each temple was built upon the ruins of the prior one, and throughout centuries this has been true in cities that marvel the world, and Agenda 2030 demands the same of us.

I would like to thank the Undersecretary of Strategic Analysis for Development from Guatemala.

Dear colleagues, it is an honor to address this forum. Azerbaijan is firmly committed to the 2030 Agenda. Sustainable development is integrated into our national planning through the Azerbaijan 2030 Agenda. 30 national priorities for socio-economic development. It is a comprehensive roadmap for competitive economy, inclusive society, human capital, clean environment, and green growth. Azerbaijan demonstrated its commitment to transparency and accountability by presenting 4 voluntary national reports in past 8 years, and we're going to submit the new one next year. In recent years, Azerbaijan maintained macroeconomic stability, and social protection, expanded digital public services, modernized transport infrastructure, and investment— invested in renewable energy. For us, sustainable development also includes addressing the consequences of former conflict. Following restoration of our territorial integrity, Azerbaijan is implementing reconstruction and recovery operations of large scale. Through the Great Return Program, liberated territories are transformed into smart, green and sustainable cities and villages, with new infrastructure, renewable energy and climate-resilient public services. Former IDPs are returning to their homes. This advances several SDGs, including those related to poverty reduction, infrastructure, sustainable cities, decent work and environmental sustainability. Humanitarian demining is crucial here. In 2023, Azerbaijan declared mine action as its 18th Sustainable Development Goal. Demining is an essential condition for safe return, agricultural development, environmental restoration, infrastructure rehabilitation, and sustainable growth. Mine action deserves international recognition as an integral component of sustainable development. As the presidency of COP29, Azerbaijan worked to strengthen link between climate action and sustainable development. Adoption of new climate finance goal to mobilize at least $300 billion annually for developing countries by 2035, together with the Baku Roadmap on scaling up climate finance to $1.3 trillion, demonstrated that climate action and sustainable development must progress hand in hand. Earlier this year, we hosted the 13th session of the World Urban Forum, bringing together more than 57,000 participants from 176 countries. Through the Baku Call to Action and the Baku Urban Award, we remain committed to translating dialogue into practical implementation. We support sustainable development through humanitarian assistance, technical cooperation, and educational initiatives, including through the Azerbaijan International Development Agency. Thank you.

I thank Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan. And now with the floor, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria.

Thank you, Mr. President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. At a time of global uncertainty and development gaps, the High-Level Political Forum remains central to multilateralism. And the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs. Bulgaria sees peace, human rights, and sustainable development as inseparable. Their advancement requires collective responsibility, full respect of international law, stronger institutions, and an empowerment of women and youth. We view the UN80 Initiative as an opportunity for a more effective UN. Bulgaria aligns itself with the statement of the EU And would like to highlight several national priorities. Water and energy remain official pillars of resilience and security. Bulgaria is committed to integrated water management and infrastructure, improved efficiency, and reduced losses through the river basin and flood risk management plans. We're modernizing water supply and wastewater systems and improving monitoring and strengthening governance. Regional cooperation is essential. Bulgaria plays an effective role in the Danube cooperation through the International Commission of the Protection of the Danube River and remains committed to the preservation of the Black Sea. In energy, we support a fair and secure transition based on diversification and stronger interconnections. We remain committed to technological neutrality, including nuclear energy and natural gas as transitional fuel and to investment in storage and digitalization. Industrial development and sustainable cities are key drivers of competitiveness and resilience. Bulgaria is advancing industrial modernization and digital transformation with the ambition to become a regional hub for technology and artificial intelligence. Bulgaria's institutions such as Sofia Tech Park and Insight support this effort. Small and medium-sized enterprises are also supported in adapting digital solutions. Our approach is guided by national frameworks, including the National Development Programme, an innovation strategy for smart specialization, and the Recovery and Resilience Plan. Bulgaria will continue to advance sustainable development in close partnership with our international partners, strengthening multilateralism and working towards a more resilient, secure, and sustainable future for all.

Thank you.

Thanks, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria. Now with the floor, Secretary of State Ministry of Planning of Cambodia.

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. Cambodia aligns itself with the statement delivered earlier by Lao PDR on behalf of ASEAN. The stakes are higher than ever with the 2030 milestones approaching amidst a highly turbulent global landscape that can reverse hard-won gains. Resources that are already scarce and meant for key priority areas are redirected towards non- and less productive expenditures. Cambodia navigates this uncertainty with a steadfast commitment to advancing the SDGs with the guidance of our pentagonal strategy and national strategic development plans. Yet there is still work to be done and we cannot afford to wait for a perfect moment to deliver better SDGs. Cambodia believes that this calls for actions to intensify efforts and at the same time leverage the power of STI. At the 11th STI Forum, Mr. President's message resonates with Cambodia. We need to harness innovation inclusively to ensure that it is accessible and reaches those who need it most and those who are still excluded. We also need to educate children on the SDGs. Young innovators who become better informed citizens could well be the key difference between a sustainable future and a climate catastrophe. And although progress is made, many targets are still off track and regressed. With that, we need to address political constraints, both data and financing gaps. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, regardless of these actions, no country can achieve the SDGs alone. Regional and international partnerships are imperative, and there can be no sustainable development without peace. Cambodia remains consistent with its core principles and stands ready to work more closely with all partners to promote transformative development towards a more thriving future for our planet and people.

I thank you.

I thank the Secretary of State, Minister of Planning of Cambodia. Now, with the floor, Junior Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries of Mauritius.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, with less than 5 years remaining until the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals, The message of this high-level political forum is clear. We must accelerate action, strengthen partnerships, and transform commitments into measurable results. The SDGs remain our collective roadmap towards an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future. Mauritius reaffirmed its commitment to the 2030 Agenda through its second voluntary national review in 2024, demonstrating that the SDGs are fully integrated into our national development framework. We have strengthened coordination mechanisms, stakeholder engagement, and monitoring systems. Mauritius has continued to make progress across several SDGs by maintaining universal access to education and healthcare, expanding social protection, advancing digital transformation, and promoting sustainable economic development. We have also made significant progress in renewable energy, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable ocean management. Our statistical capacity has improved considerably, with approximately 75% of SDG indicators now available to support evidence-based policymaking. This progress is reflected in the Sustainable Development Report 2026, which assigns Mauritius an SDG Index score of 68 out of 100. While recognizing achievements in human development, social inclusion, and institutional strengthening, the report also highlights the need to accelerate action on climate resilience, biodiversity protection, sustainable consumption and production, and financing for sustainable development. Mauritius remains committed to accountability through the preparation of its 3rd Voluntary National Review in 2027. Mr. President, as a Small Island Developing State, Mauritius continues to face structural vulnerabilities arising from climate change, biodiversity loss, food and energy insecurity, external shocks, and constrained fiscal space. These challenges demonstrate the limitations of relying solely on traditional economic indicators. Mauritius therefore supports the implementation of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index MVI as an additional criterion to GNI, providing a more comprehensive assessment of the specific vulnerabilities of SIDS and facilitating improved access to concessional finance and other appropriate financing instruments. The SDGs are mainstream across our national budget. Our government expenditure for this financial year is projected at approximately $8 billion, supporting investment in education, healthcare, climate resilience, renewable energy, digital transformation, food security, and the blue economy. The remaining years to 2030 must be years of delivery. Mauritius remains committed to accelerating transformative action, strengthening resilience, and ensuring that no one is left behind.

Thank you.

Thank you, Senior Minister for Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries of Mauritius.

I once again remind you that you have a maximum of 3 minutes to make your statements. I will be forced to interrupt you if you exceed the allocated speaking time. I now give the floor to the Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan.

Distinguished President, delegates, ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of the delegation of Turkmenistan, allow me to greet all participants of this High-Level Political Forum and express a special gratitude for the invitation to take part in this forum. It is very important for us as Turkmenistan has prepared its 3rd voluntary national review, which will be presented in 2027. For our country, achieving the SDGs is one of the key priorities of our state policy led by his president— our president. And we are implementing constant work to achieve the SDGs. Currently, 80% of the SDG targets are incorporated in our national Programs and policies for development. On the national level, we have approved over 100 goals and targets of the SDGs. Today's topic fully reflects the national priorities of Turkmenistan. For a country of Central Asia, the issue of national use of water resources— rather, sound use of water resources— is of key importance. We believe that resolving the water issue ought to take place solely based on universally recognized principles and norms of international law, with mutual respect for the interests of all states of the region. We are consistently implementing measures to effectively manage water resources, and we support further strengthening cooperation through the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea. We also focus on the issue of climate change and combating land degradation. During the GA80, the President of Turkmenistan presented an initiative of establishing a regional center to combat desertification in Central Asian countries. Implementing this initiative has greatly contributed to regional cooperation and promoting international— the international climate agenda. When it comes to energy, Turkmenistan has essentially full access of a population to modern energy sources. And at the same time, we're continuing to carry out major infrastructure projects to export natural gas and electricity. An important area of state policy is the transition toward a green economy. In order to carry out our international obligations to reduce methane emissions, we are continuing to increase the use of renewable energy and are introducing environmentally friendly technologies. When it comes to SDG 11, we are building the Kadakh City, which is the first of its kind in the region. It is essentially the embodiment of the principles of our new city program, and this is a way of producing, creating sustainable and clean cities. Microphone was cut off for the speaker.

I thank Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan. And now with the floor, Special Representative of the President of the Russian Federation for Relations with International Organizations to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals.

Distinguished President, colleagues, ladies and gentlemen. States. We propose focusing on one of these areas, that is digitalizing small and medium-sized enterprises. Experience of many countries, including Russia, shows that digital platforms for SMEs provide— produce rapid and measurable effects, and they help enterprises emerge from the informal sector, expanding the production of accessible and affordable services and goods, and also create jobs and increase economic transparency. This means for states an expanded tax base and more tax revenue, and this means new resources for sustainable development program financing without excessive dependence on external sources. This is why SME digitalization is one of the practical instruments for accelerating progress on the SDGs. We call on countries who already have successful digital solutions for small businesses to share these technologies and practices with states where the informal sector continues to represent a large part of the economy. Here, an exchange of experiences can quickly turn into concrete results. At the same time, it's important to maintain the SDG framework itself. Despite all these difficulties, it has given the world a common development language, a language of goals, indicators, and shared responsibility. Today, this framework is under strain. The economic paradigm is changing. States are increasingly turning inward, focusing on their own priorities. But the key challenges we're facing— no, no borders, climate, food, energy security, sustainable supply chains, pandemics, adaptation of new technologies— therefore, now we need to think about the post-2030 global agenda. We must not allow a vacuum to form, and we must not lose our common vision. We are already working toward this end. In the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, we have an expert group for the Post-2030 Agenda. In May 2026, in Astana, on initiative of Kazakhstan, together with Russia and other countries, we held the Post-2030 SDG Forum. This forum is a forum Forum led to the establishment of the Astana Group, a platform for experts from the world's various regions. We invite experts from various states to join this work. Their practical experience will help to establish a future agenda that will be more realistic, balanced, and useful for countries with varying development levels.

Thanks, Special Representative of the President of the Russian Federation for Relations with International Organizations to achieve Sustainable Development Goals. the floor Vice Minister, Ministry of Planning of Bangladesh.

Good afternoon, Mr. President, Excellencies, and distinguished delegates. Bangladesh aligns with the LDC statement as our honourable advisor for finance and planning already delivered in the morning session. Bangladesh joins this high-level political forum with a renewed mandate from its people, an overwhelming two-thirds majority following the free, fair, and credible election in February. The new government inherited a fragile economy and weakened institutions. We have therefore adopted a 3R strategy Recovery, Restoration, and Reconstruction, to restore stability and lay the foundation for sustainable development. Mr. President, Bangladesh faces an annual SDG financing gap of over $132 billion until 2030, mostly for Clean Energy, SDG 7, Economic Growth, SDG 8, and infrastructure, SDG 9. We also face a 37% funding gap for 1.3 million Rohingyas, with an immediate deficit of around $261 million. Despite this immense fiscal stress, we remain committed to make progress in SDGs, including reducing extreme poverty, SDG 1, securing near-universal primary school enrollment, SDG 4, and climate resilience, SDG 13. And most importantly, under Prime Minister Tariq Rahman's leadership, Bangladesh is advancing towards a transformative journey in line with its 5-year strategic framework, the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, and preparation for LDC graduation. Mr. President, the new government is increasing allocations for education and health towards 5% of GDP. We'll dredge 20,000 kilometers of rivers and canals over 5 years to improve water security, reduce flood risks, and restore ecosystems. We'll plant 250 million saplings, expand renewable energy, promote green industries and transportation, and develop a carbon market to mobilize green investment and carbon credit opportunities. The government is strengthening domestic resource mobilization for expanding social protection and promoting inclusive development. We have introduced a universal, life-cycle-based social security program, placing women at the center and ensuring support for every stage of life. We launched the—

I thank my Minister of Ministry of Planning of Bangladesh for his statement.

I now give the floor to the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Portugal.

Dear Chair, Excellencies, as we approach 2030, the challenges before us are immense, and that's why Portugal chooses cooperation over fragmentation, implementation over promises, and partnerships over isolation. That is the spirit that guides our participation in this year's HLPF. And our service to the membership through 2030 and beyond, including in the Economic and Social Council and in the United Nations Security Council, to which Portugal was recently elected. Our coinciding membership to both UN bodies in 2027 will certainly be a fortunate occasion to emphasize the unquestionable link between sustainable development and peace and security.

Dear colleagues, the goals under review this year remind us that sustainable development begins with people's everyday lives.

Portugal continues to translate this ambition into concrete action. Last month, we launched our National Roadmap for Sustainable Development 2030, reinforcing policy coherence and accelerating SDG implementation across public administration. According to Portugal's latest SDG indicator report, of the 189 Global SDGs indicators assessed, 105 show a positive trend and 23 have already reached their targets. Progress is particularly encouraging in SDGs 6, 7, and 9, where over 70% of the respective indicators are moving in the right direction. Portugal has already achieved near-universal access to safe drinking water, while renewable energy already accounts for two-thirds of our electricity generation. And internationally, we promote the same approach through innovative partnerships, including the Debt-for-Climate Swap with Cape Verde and capacity-building initiatives in oceans, digital, and space.

Excellencies, the financing gap remains one of the greatest obstacles to achieving the SDGs. Public finance remains indispensable, but it's not enough. Mobilizing responsible private investment and strengthening cooperation between governments, international financial institutions, development finance institutions is essential.

Count with Portugal to continue working with all partners to strengthen trust, mobilize investment, and build a multilateral system that delivers concrete results for all.

I thank you.

I now give the— I thank the Minister of Portugal, and I now give the floor to the Vice Minister of Planning Mr.

President, distinguished delegates, Kenya congratulates the 36 countries presenting their voluntary national reviews. The NVR shows mixed results, with some Sustainable Development Goals targets progressing very well while others continue to face challenges. Achieving the SDGs requires strong national leadership and international solidarity. Kenya welcomes this year's theme, which underscores the need for transformative, equitable, innovative, and coordinated action to accelerate SDG implementation. The global financing gap, estimated at over $4 trillion annually, continues to constrain developing countries' efforts to invest in critical sectors necessary for sustainable development. It is therefore imperative to take urgent measures to unlock Development finance. International finance must be more concessional, inclusive, responsive, development-oriented, and predictable. Debt sustainability frameworks must be strengthened. Scaling up climate financing and expanding access to innovative financing instruments remain urgent. Mr. President, Kenya continues to strengthen domestic resource mobilization Through improved tax administration, enhanced efficiency in public expenditure, and curbing illicit financial flow. Through the National Infrastructure Fund and a revamped public-private partnership framework, among other innovative financing mechanisms, we are delivering on infrastructure development and socioeconomic transformation. Through the Sovereign Wealth Fund, Kenya seeks to cushion the national economy against external shocks and financial volatility, financial— finance national development projects, create jobs, and generate returns to build assets and preserve at least 30% of all revenues generated from petroleum and mineral resources for citizens. Kenya has made progress in expanding access to safely managed drinking water and sanitation, services through enhanced investment in water harvesting, storage infrastructure, integrated water resource management, and climate-resilient water systems. I thank you.

Thanks, Vice Minister of Economic Planning of Kenya, for his statement. And now I give the floor to the Parliamentary State Secretary of Germany.

President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, we have made impressive progress around the world. More and more people are gaining access to electricity, renewable energy use is on the rise, and mobile phone networks are being expanded everywhere. We are contributing to this momentum in Germany as well. This year, we adopted our action programme for implementing the National Circular Economy Strategy. This package addresses several Sustainable Development Goals and underlines our national commitment to resource efficiency. However, implementation of the 17 SDGs remains inadequate. Geopolitical tensions are straining multilateral processes, social inequalities are increasing, and the funding gap persists. Today's security, meaning peace, stable partnerships, and secure resources, is central. It highlights the importance of resilience. Societies that take an integrated approach to implementing the 2030 Agenda have proven to be more resilient. Investment in prevention, social cohesion, sustainable infrastructure, and good governance enables societies to absorb shocks and maintain their capacity to act. For SDG 11, we can see progress, as many municipalities have developed their own strategies. Major challenges do remain, including lack of housing, excessive land use, and the need for truly sustainable mobility. In the run-up to the— to 2030, we must step up implementation, harness synergies, and take an integrated approach to the 17 SDGs. One example is the upcoming 2026 UN Water Conference. A coordinated cross-sectoral water strategy strengthens our climate resilience, health, food security, infrastructure, and economy. That is why Germany is actively involved in the preparations for the UN Water Conference. But we are also setting our sights beyond 2030. The post-2030 framework must be ambitious, universal, and inclusive. It must build on progress made and openly tackle existing gaps in implementation. Our proven key to success is partnership, SDG 17. Global challenges can only be overcome together, and participation works. Inclusive dialogue and the participation of the major groups is an essential element of the 2030 Agenda. That is why representatives of all stakeholder groups have to be brought on board. Ladies and gentlemen, let us spare no effort in speeding up our implementation of the SDGs for enhanced prosperity, the preservation of our foundations of life, and for all people on Earth. Thank you.

I thank the Parliamentary State Secretary of Germany for her statement. And now with the floor and the Secretary of State of the Ministry of Environment and Energy Mr.

President, 4 years before the 2030 Agenda deadline, we all have a clear responsibility to accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and to do so in a truly transformative way. The environmental, economic, and social crises of our time are deeply interconnected. Our responses must be equally interconnected. This is the belief that guides Italy's actions and inspires the voluntary review process presented this year. With the 3rd national, local, and youth voluntary review, We have chosen to highlight the collective contribution of central governments, local communities, civil society, and the youth. The review brings together 14 local voluntary reviews along with our country's first youth voluntary review, thereby demonstrating our commitment to the Pact for the Future and the Declaration on Future Generations. Sustainable development must be rooted in local communities, engage communities, and mobilize all sectors of society. The SDGs localization is therefore of strategic importance. It is at the local level that global goals are translated into public policies, services, investments, and opportunities for people. And it is through effective multilevel governance that we can build the necessary link between global visions and concrete actions. At the same time, we're convinced that the younger generations must be key players in the design and implementation of sustainability policies.

The Youth Voluntary Review is the first step in this direction.

Finally, Italy's experience confirms the importance of policy coherence for sustainable development as an enabling factor for the entire 2030 Agenda. Recognizing the interconnections among the SDGs, leveraging their synergies, and consciously addressing potential divergences are essential conditions for accelerating their implementation. It is against this premise that Italy, together with UN-HABITED, has promoted the Partnership Platform for the SDGs Localization, moving from the belief that cooperation among countries and exchange of best practices are key steps to strengthening the territorial dimension of sustainable development and accelerating its implementation globally. As we begin to look beyond 2030, we believe that any discussion must focus on the drivers of change that support the implementation of all the Sustainable Development Goals across the board: multilevel governance that empowers local communities, Policy coherence, and

the microphone was cut off because Italy exceeded its time.

Yeah, thank you. I thank the distinguished representative of Italy. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of.

Thailand.

Mr. President, Thailand aligns itself with the statements of the Group of 77 and China, with ASEAN, and with the Group of Friends of the Global Development Initiative. This year offers yet another moment for us to reflect on the progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. The Secretary-General's report reveals that progress on the SDGs is happening, although not at the speed or scale that we would have expected. For Thailand, achieving the SDGs is not to reinvent the wheel, but to deliver better through 3 actions. First, we must move from fragmented actions to integrated solutions. This means continuing to strengthen policy coherence through whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches, and using data to bridge remaining gaps and address challenges in the implementation of the SDGs. Our Voluntary National Review and Voluntary Local Review processes also serve as a useful platform for policy dialogue, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based assessment. It also serves as an implementation accelerator in the country. Second, we must ensure that transformation is equitable and inclusive. Thailand's approach begins with a simple principle: development must be people-centered. This means investing in lifelong learning, promoting active and healthy aging, supporting decent work, and enhancing social protection to ensure dignity and security for all. Since SDG delivery ultimately happens in local contexts, strengthening local ownership therefore remains our priority. Third, we must strengthen the means of implementation. Financing for development remains a key enabler of SDG acceleration. Thailand will strive to unlock green and sustainable finance, strengthen safe and inclusive digital public infrastructure, and combat illicit financial flows related to online scams. In October this year, Thailand will host the 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings in Bangkok, under the vision Thailand's New Horizons: Empowering People, Building Resilience. We hope that discussions at this meeting will lead to actionable solutions to better support SDG acceleration over the next 4 years until 2030. Mr. President, looking to the 2027 SDG Summit, Thailand believes that the preparatory process should be inclusive and evidence-based, leading to action-oriented outcomes. It should serve as a bridge to carry forward the lessons, solutions, partnerships, and political will needed to sustain progress beyond 2030. In closing, Thailand believes that the task before us is clear: to deliver better integrated solutions.

Thank you.

Thank you. I thank the distinguished representative of Thailand. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Romania.

Mr. President, Your Excellencies, dear colleagues, in 2015 all of us, we received a mandate and a mission approved by consensus to make our world more sustainable, for the coming generations. What we have done in these years. Romania has built a robust governance framework for sustainable development, coordinated from the centre of the government through the Department of Sustainable Development under the Prime Minister's Office. Our whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach brings together ministries, parliament, local authorities, academia, the private sector, civil society, and youth, ensuring policy coherence and coordinated action across all sectors. This year, we launched the revision of the National Sustainable Development Strategy, moving towards an integrated approach centered on national priorities while preserving the universal and indivisible nature of Sustainable Development Goals. Together with our National Action Plan, the National SDG Monitoring Framework, and the Virtual Resource Centre for Sustainable Development, our digital one-stop-shop platform, we are strengthening implementation and supporting SDG localization throughout Romania. Investing in people is equally important. Our nationwide network now includes 2,300 certified sustainable development experts, and we continue to build capacities in sustainable development statistics and circular economy, reinforcing evidence-based policymaking across public administration. Romania also promotes sustainable development through multilateral dialogue and regional cooperation, supporting capacity building and policy coherence across Southeast Europe. Mr. President, as we prepare for the post-2030 agenda, Romania believes that the Sustainable Development Goals should remain the foundation of the future global framework. Their universal, integrated, and holistic vision has become our common language for sustainable development. Romania also believes that culture, already a cross-cutting enabler of sustainable development, deserves stronger recognition in the future global framework reflecting its essential contribution to education, innovation, social cohesion, and resilient communities. I believe that all of us, we are changemakers. It's up to us to build a better future for the young generations. Let's do it. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Romania. Now I give the floor to the The distinguished representative of Zambia.

Mr. President, Your Excellencies, as we enter the final 4 years of the 2030 Agenda, the theme of this high-level political forum is both timely and compelling. WASH in health facilities is not only a public health priority but also a core climate adaptation measure. Zambia, among others, is therefore advocating for the following: strong country delivery for the Water Forward Initiative aligned with government-led compacts and platforms focused on hardest-to-reach communities, implementation of the UN resolution on WASH in health facilities which support WHO target to reach 100% coverage, Fast-tracking the integration, financing, and implementation of the climate-resilient work in the nationally determined contributions and national adaptation plans. In matching our ambition with decisive action, Zambia remains committed to advancing sustainable development through innovation, resilience, and strong partnerships. We stand ready to work with all member states to build a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for all. Without adequate financing, the SDGs will remain beyond reach. Zambia therefore continues to advocate for reforms to the global debt architecture and international financial systems that better respond to the needs of developing countries. The timely implementation of the Sevilla Commitment offers a critical opportunity to close the SDG financing gap and restore momentum towards the 2030 Agenda. We therefore call for renewed international cooperation that delivers practical solutions, strengthens national capacities, and ensures that no country is left behind. Zambia is scaling up climate-resilient solutions to ensure access to safe drinking water and sanitation through sustainable investment in water supply infrastructure and integrated water resource management. Achieving the SDGs requires that implementation is driven through ground-up and promotion of voluntary local reviews as practical tools for planning, accountability, and stakeholder engagement. Therefore, empowering local governments and communities is essential to translating global commitments into meaningful actions, tangible local results, and accelerating progress towards SDGs. Zambia looks forward to presenting its voluntary national review in 2020.

I thank the distinguished representative of Zambia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Suriname.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, at the 80th General Assembly meeting, our President, Her Excellency Jennifer Simmons, reminded the General Assembly that we are really better together.

Today, Suriname returns to demonstrate what those words mean. Under SDG 7, Suriname has set the ambitious goal of achieving a fully renewable electricity sector by 2060. As one of the world's few carbon-negative countries, we already generate nearly half of our electricity from hydropower. At the same time, we are expanding reliable electricity access to Indigenous and tribal communities in our interior. Under SDG 6, more than 40 villages now benefit from safe drinking water through surface water filtration systems supported by our valued bilateral partners. At the same time, we recognize the need to strengthen integrated water resource management to meet Under SDG 9, Suriname is pursuing a gradual and responsible transition to more sustainable production, including the formalization of artisanal and small-scale gold mining and the progressive elimination of mercury use. Under SDG 11, recently a national housing program, Nahu Sur, has been launched. to expand access to adequate and affordable housing for families across Suriname. Mr. President, while we continue to deliver at home, we will also continue to advocate internationally for fair recognition of the environmental services our forests provide. Our national budget alone cannot finance sustainable development while safeguarding this global public good. In return, we only ask what is fair: predictable climate finance, credible recognitions of verified carbon removals, and direct support for the indigenous and tribal communities that have protected these forests for generations. For Suriname, delivering means 5 priorities: diversifying our economy through agriculture, tourism, and trade; advancing decentralization; accelerating digitization to provide modern, transparent, and accessible public services; transforming our oil and gas revenues into lasting investments in education, infrastructure, and institutions; and safeguarding our natural capital for future generations. We now call upon the international community to match ambition with meaningful partnerships, predictable financing, and collective action, so that together we can accelerate implementation of the SDGs and leave no one behind.

I thank the distinguished representative of Suriname. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Eswatini.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. The Kingdom of Eswatini is honored to address this forum under the theme Transformative, Equitable, Innovative, and Coordinated Actions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This theme resonates deeply with our national journey, hence Eswatini reaffirms its commitment to the 2030 Agenda and to leaving no one behind. Mr. President, as we approach the 2030 deadline, Eswatini echoes the unified position of Africa's SDG report that accelerating progress requires bold, coordinated, and localized actions. Despite several climate and global economic headwinds, Eswatini has made concrete achievements in the water, energy, and infrastructure sectors. On water and sanitation, national access to safely managed drinking water increased from 69.5% in 2020 to 80.75% in 2025, while safely managed sanitation coverage progressed from 54% in 2020 to 59% in 2024. Secondly, on energy, household electricity access increased from 80% to 88% rural access advancing from 76% to 85%. This is supported by off-grid solar and rural electrification programs. Thirdly, on infrastructure and innovation, national telecommunications coverage now stands at 95%. Mr. President, a persistent rural divide remains a major challenge across water, energy, transport, and digital access. As a landlocked lower-middle-income country, Eswatini faces compounding vulnerabilities, which include declining infrastructure financing, rising debt service-to-export ratio, and a continued dependence on customs receipts, and this is coupled by recurrent climate shocks that deepen food insecurity. To overcome these structural bottlenecks and keep our promises of the 2020 Agenda— 2030 Agenda, Eswatini is prioritizing 3 coordinated actions, the first being accelerating localization and closing the rural-urban divide, particularly on energy and water, and secondly, mobilizing innovative and sustainable financing in an effort to close the infrastructure funding gap whilst managing debt within sustainable levels, and thirdly, enhancing data-driven accountability.

I thank the distinguished representative, Eswatini, Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mali.

Mr. President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, the delegation of Mali subscribes to the statement made by Morocco on behalf of the African Group and Uruguay on behalf of the G77 and China. On a national basis, for us it is a pleasure to participate in this The theme is extremely relevant. In 5 years, we will reach 2030, and we see that there is a worrying delay in order to achieve the SDGs. Security crisis, climate change, geopolitical tensions, economic shocks, and persistent inequalities have considerably affected development trajectories, especially in some of the most vulnerable countries. This reality calls for a collective response on the basis of a renewed international solidarity, a more effective multilateralism, and partnerships that are fair and respectful of national priorities. President, despite a context that has been difficult, Mali, under the leadership of His Excellence the General of our Army, Assimi Goïta, President of the Transition and Head of State, is firmly committed to the achievement of the SDGs. And under his leadership, the government of Mali has crafted Vision 2063, and the first 10-year implementation phase is the National Strategy for the Emergence and for Sustainable Development 2024-2023. That is the main framework for all of our public policies and the instrument to align our national priorities with Agenda 2030. In Mali, we held the First Forum on Climate Security in November of 2023, and this led to the adoption of the Bamako Declaration, whose substance and goal are to fully integrate climate challenges in our security and development policies. Mali has been resilient and is unified. The government is determined to redouble its efforts to reestablish state authority, to ensure security in our territory, and to protect our population. And we have seen encouraging results when it comes to these efforts. In parallel to actions in order to make sure that peace can return, the government is carrying out ambitious reforms to strengthen the country's economic sovereignty and to mobilize the necessary resources to finance development. The reforms carried out in the mining sector are a significant step forward. Regionally, Mali is also convinced that our responses to current challenges demand concerted regional approaches. And in this spirit, we created on the 6th of July of 2024 the Confederation of Sahelian States, which includes Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. This depends on solidarity amongst brotherly peoples and bringing resources together to build a space of peace, prosperity, and shared development. President, to conclude, The microphone is turned off.

I thank the distinguished representative of Mali. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Türkiye.

President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, as we get closer to 2030, our collective responsibility grows more critical than ever.

While significant global efforts have been deployed, global progress on the Sustainable Development Goals falling short, including vital targets related to multidimensional poverty, food security, hunger, and climate action.

The compounding economic, health, and geopolitical shocks continue to weaken the path toward development.

To accelerate progress, Türkiye remains committed to the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, and contributes to global efforts thanks to its strong and dynamic capacity. Achieving the SDGs is fundamentally dependent on robust partnerships, and in this context, Türkiye remains dedicated to fostering mutually beneficial cooperation that effectively translates high-level commitments into concrete operational outcomes. As Türkiye is getting prepared to host COP31, we view this powerful platform as a major milestone for driving implementation forward and bringing the benefits of climate action to billions more people around the world. Our vision for COP31 is implementation. We have been proposing that this could be called a 2-tier multilateralism. The first one, institutional speed anchored in consensus indispensable for legitimacy and universality, and the second is enabling coalitions of capable actors who are willing to move faster to mobilize resources and deploy solutions at scale. The other primary obstacle to achieving our goals is the staggering financing gap. In emerging markets and developing countries, the SDG financing gap has escalated to approximately $4 trillion annually. While official development assistance remains a vital pillar of international development finance, its current levels are highly inadequate against the scale of global needs. With ODA flows expected to decline, reforming the global financial architecture, and the full implementation of the Sevilla Commitment have become more urgent than ever. As a leading donor of humanitarian and development assistance, Türkiye proudly hosts the UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries, prioritizing digital transformation and inclusive growth. The UN Technology Bank, which works to enhance the science, technology, and innovation capacity of LDCs is also recognized as the global focal point by the Doha Programme of Action for LDCs. Dear delegates, we believe that challenges and delays should not weaken our resolve; rather, they should encourage stronger action and greater cooperation. Over the past decade, Türkiye has made significant progress in areas such as access to healthcare, renewable energy. We scaled up disaster-sensitive models for urban resilience, digitalization, and water accessibility. Our National Development Plan represents a valuable roadmap for sustainable and inclusive development. The year 2030 is not a hard deadline where we stop trying. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Türkiye. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Equatorial Guinea.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegations, allow me to express on behalf of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea our gratitude to ECOSOC for organizing this forum to accelerate the implementation of Agenda 2030 through transformative, inclusive, and innovative solutions. My country reaffirms that the SDGs will only be reached through a cross-cutting focus where access to water, energy, industrialization, urban development, and international partnerships are mutually reinforcing. Our 2nd National Voluntary Report shows specific progress. We've broadened access to energy thanks to investments in energy infrastructure, and we have consolidated a base for economic and social infrastructures which constitutes a pillar to transform and diversify our economy. We are aware of remaining challenges. We must continue to improve access to drinking water and sanitation, especially in rural areas. We must also strengthen the resiliency of our cities and ensure that our urban development is more sustainable and inclusive. Like many African countries, We face the challenge of financing the structural transformation of our economies. For this, we must strengthen our national capacities, accelerate technology transfer, and push for industrialization that's transformative with respect to jobs and facilitate access to financing in sustainable conditions. And this is why for us SDG number 17 is of strategic importance. We value the support support of the United Nations, IFIs, and regional institutions. Nevertheless, the success of Agenda 2030 demands more effective international cooperation, financing for development that is more accessible, and strengthened mobilization of internal resources. We reaffirm our commitment under the leadership of His Excellency the President of our Republic to continue implementing Agenda 2030. Allow me to conclude by recalling that there will be no sustainable development without institutions that are capable of listening to society, building consensus, and objectively evaluating the implementation of public policies. That is the contribution that us as ECOSOC must make in order to ensure that we achieve Agenda 2030. I thank you.

Thank you. I thank the distinguished representative of ECOSOC. Thank you, Mr. Laguini. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ecuador.

Mr. President, distinguished delegations, for Ecuador, Agenda 2030 constitutes a strategic framework that guides our public policies towards a development that is sustainable from the economic, social, and environmental point of view. In this context, our National Development Plan is aligned with the SDGs. It integrates 96 out of 98 national targets with the targets of Agenda 2030. This effort reflects the commitment of my country to a results-oriented planning strategy and with the achievement of our international commitments. Ecuador continues to strengthen its policies to broaden access to drinking water and sanitation. Especially in areas where we see the most need. These actions are critical in order to prevent disease, improve public health, and contribute to reducing chronic childhood malnutrition, one of the main challenges my country is facing. We have an electric matrix that is made up mostly of renewables, mainly hydropower plants. This is a strategic advantage to move forward with a low-carbon economy. strengthen energy security, and move towards a sustainable energy transition. My country is working to strengthen its productive infrastructure and promote innovation, as well as accelerate the digital transformation. Ecuador is thus implementing policies to strengthen our land use planning, to broaden access to basic services and improve resiliency in the face of natural disasters, as well as promote an urban development that is more orderly and inclusive. Partnerships to achieve the SDGs are a cross-cutting element in order to achieve Agenda 2030 in its entirety. Ecuador cooperates hand in glove with international organizations such as the United Nations, UNICEF, the World Bank, and JICA, among others. We thus promote initiatives relating to social protection, childhood development, food security, institutional strengthening, and capacity building. We are aware that we are still facing considerable challenges despite the fact that the data does show progress. And within the spirit of cooperation, I would like to extend to you all a very special invitation on behalf of the government of Ecuador. This year, our country will be the host of the International Forum for Mayors in terms of the achievement of SDGs 2026. This will be an opportunity to connect national and local leadership, to share practical solutions, to strengthen international cooperation, and to bring our urban projects closer to financing and implementation. We will be waiting for you in Ecuador. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ecuador. Now, I give the floor to the distinguished Representative of Peru.

Mr. President, distinguished representatives, for Peru, poverty needs to go beyond mere income. Poverty means barriers to access services and food security, limited development opportunities, and territorial inequalities. And this is why sustainable development should be reflected in tangible improvements in the lives of people living in poverty and vulnerability. The government of Peru champions a response that is based on our National Development and Inclusion Strategy 2030 that recognizes social exclusion as a problem that affects people throughout the life cycle. This policy guides state action to ensure better opportunities from early childhood all the way to adulthood. With a territorial focus that is articulated and results-oriented. And we have learned 3 things throughout this experience. First, social policies must support people in the different stages of life. We should avoid intergenerational deprivation. Second, social inclusion is only possible when the state is close to people in their territories. This is why we are strengthening social infrastructures and the presence of public services in some of the most remote areas in the country. This vision is showing results. Over 430,000 rural homes have access to safe drinking water, and over 412,000 homes have improved kitchens, thus contributing to the health and quality of life of our families. Also, through maintenance and repair operations for kitchens and school depots, as well as community infrastructure, we are improving conditions to provide better public services for people. Through 522 initiatives of our country program and the traveling platforms for social action, we are providing health services and social programs to thousands of people that are living in remote and rural areas as well as in the Amazon. The presence of the state in territories is an indispensable condition to The third lesson is that social protection must be prepared to respond to current risks. Climate emergencies, health and economic emergencies affect the most vulnerable homes with greater intensity. That is why we're moving towards social protection that is capable of anticipating challenges and responding in a timely fashion. Peru's experience shows the importance of public policy. policies, Peru reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism and a vision that is people-focused in order to reduce inequalities and ensure that no one is left behind. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Peru. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Israel.

Mr. President, dear delegates, I am honored to address this Assembly as the Director-General of the Ministry of Construction and Housing of the State of Israel. Today, I am proud to present our national report on Sustainable Development Goal 11. It combines official data with real local examples to show exactly how we are improving our cities every day. Our rapidly growing population and extremely limited land place a major responsibility on our ministry. To achieve SDG Target 11.1, we are expanding our housing supply to meet future needs. We market more than— to increase accessibility We market more than half of our state-owned land through subsidized discount programs, making ownership— homeownership possible for young families. For SDG Target 11.2 and 11.3, urban renewal inside existing cities is a major priority. We amended and assessment tools called Neighborhoods 316. This helps us design compact neighborhoods to prioritize walkability, green public spaces, and convenient access to transport networks. In line with SDG Target 11.5, planning must help us handle in emergencies and recovered from crisis. In our southern region, we are managing a $480 million infrastructure budget to rehabilitate communities, homes, and public institutions, guiding by our new Damage Rehabilitation Law, we are ensuring that our communities are rebuilt better, stronger, and safer. Dear delegates, dear colleagues, Israel stands ready to share its planning experience and resilience tools. Let us work together to make our cities inclusive, safer, resilient, and sustainable.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Israel. Now I give the floor to the distinguished permanent representative of Iceland, speaking on behalf of the LGBTI core group. Mr.

Chair, distinguished delegates, I have the honor of making this statement on behalf of the 46 member states of the UN LGBTI Core Group. The 2030 Agenda is founded on a clear commitment: progress must benefit everyone, without exception.

This commitment is particularly relevant in a time when innovation and technological progress create new opportunities and services, and simultaneously create new forms of exclusion and violence. Across all regions, LGBTI persons are agents of change and partners in their communities to promote sustainable development, yet they continue to face alarming rates of discrimination, violence, exclusion, hate speech, and stigma. These barriers limit opportunities, undermine human rights, and slow progress towards sustainable development. In fact, the SDGs cannot be achieved without confronting root inequalities, including those produced and reproduced through discrimination, exclusionary economic models, and unequal access to services. This year, 36 countries are presenting their ENRs at this forum. These reviews provide an important opportunity to assess not only overall progress, but also who remains unseen within our data policies and institutions. We urge Member States to ensure that the implementation and review of the SDGs address the needs and rights of LGBTI persons, and reflect the commitment to leave no one behind.

When marginalised individuals are empowered to live and contribute authentically, without fear of discrimination, communities experience stronger public trust and resilience. Inclusive societies make better use of the talents and contributions of all their members, driving innovation and economic progress. As we examine the SDGs under review, we want to highlight a few examples.

On SDG 6, LGBTI persons, mainly transgender, intersex, and gender-diverse persons, continue to face harassment, denial of access, and risk of violence when using public sanitation facilities. In humanitarian and emergency settings, WASH responses should explicitly address the protection needs of LGBTI persons.

Sanitation policies must guarantee privacy, safety, and non-discriminatory access for all.

On SDG 9, LGBTI persons are too often excluded from decent work, entrepreneurship, finance, and digital participation. Digital spaces are increasingly becoming sites of harassment, algorithmic bias, and coordinated hate. We call for strong measures prevent and respond to hate speech, disinformation, technology-facilitated gender-based violence, and digital exclusion. Governments and the private sector should promote inclusive workspaces and equal access to entrepreneurship, innovation funding, and digital skills development for LGBTI persons. On SDG 11, LGBTI persons, particularly youth, disproportionately face homelessness and housing insecurity. Violence and harassment in public transport, schools, shelters, and urban spaces are also daily realities for many LGBTI persons, preventing full participation. Access to safe, affordable, and sustained housing for all is a human right, and we call for policies that ensure that public spaces are designed and managed to be safe, accessible, and inclusive. On SDG 17, LGBTI civil society organizations are already delivering services, generating evidence, and advancing accountability, yet they remain severely underfunded and face structural barriers. Many SDG monitoring systems still fail to capture the inequalities experienced by LGBTI persons. Partnerships should promote the meaningful participation of those persons in implementation monitoring and review of the SDGs at all levels. Colleagues, LGBTI persons exist in all of our countries, no matter the region or culture we come from. Violence and discrimination exists in all our societies, no matter how far down the road of inclusion we believe we are. Our message today is simple: as we examine and continue the work towards achieving the SDGs, we are not asking for new rights or policies, We are asking that existing human rights obligations and development commitments be implemented in an inclusive way. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished Permanent Representative of Iceland, speaking on behalf of the LGBTI core group. Now I give the floor to the distinguished Permanent Representative of Liechtenstein.

We are alarmed by the fact that the Secretary-General's latest progress report once again delivers a sobering assessment. We are not merely falling short of our ambitions; in some areas, we are moving in the wrong direction. This is not for lack of knowledge, nor for the lack of proven solutions. The barriers are political, financial, and structural, and the retreat from multilateral commitments in parts of the international community threatens to erode the very foundation on which the 2030 Agenda rests. Liechtenstein believes that the response to these setbacks cannot be resignation. It must be renewed resolve grounded in evidence, sustained by political will, and matched by concrete action. President, this forum's in-depth review of SDG 7 comes at a critical moment. The disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz since February of this year has caused what the International Energy Agency has described as the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market. It is a reminder of the structural risks inherent in the fossil fuel dependency of our global economy. The transition to sustainable, affordable, and reliable energy is not merely an environmental imperative, but a matter of long-term economic stability and security. The goal of tripling global renewable capacity by 2030, reaffirmed at COP28, requires both ambition in policy and a fundamental shift in the architecture of energy finance. Liechtenstein has sought to implement these priorities in its domestic framework. Since 2015, Liechtenstein has held one of the highest per capita installed photovoltaic capacities in the world. Our Energy Strategy 2030 sets clear targets: a 20% reduction in energy demand, 30% renewable energy in our total energy mix, and a 30% domestic reduction in CO2 emissions below 1990 levels.

President.

President. Liechtenstein has consistently thought to make its contribution to the 2030 Agenda not only through policy commitments at home, but through the mobilization of financial actors globally. In this respect, the Finance Against Slavery and Trafficking Initiative represents Liechtenstein's most sustained contribution to the multilateral efforts to address the financial dimensions of modern slavery, which affect an estimated 50 million people and generate over $236 billion in illicit proceeds annually. They are not marginal phenomena, but systematic failures rooted in the structural inequalities that the Sustainable Development Goals seek to address. We invite all delegations and partners to engage with this work and join Liechtenstein in ensuring that the financial sector becomes part of the solution to eradicate modern slavery.

I thank the distinguished representative of Liechtenstein. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belarus.

President, in 2015 we set ourselves very ambitious but technically achievable goals, 17 SDGs. However, in practice their implementation has run into many interlinked barriers which are largely artificial in nature— armed conflict, violations of norms of international law, unilateral coercive measures, trade barriers, funding deficits, limited access to technologies, et cetera. The combination of these problems has led to states' development stagnating while the gap between them is growing. Therefore, the outcome of the 2030 Agenda requires us to take decisive action. We believe that the current political situation should not prevail over the long-term development of all of humanity. We also recall the 2030 Agenda is based on the balance between 3 pillars: economic growth, social justice, and ecological environmental sustainability. Skewing toward any one of those without maintaining the balance between them will lead to a weakening of global efforts toward achieving the SDGs. I'd like to emphasize in particular that without peace, there cannot be sustainable development on the planet. We call for renewing broad international dialogue on restoring trust measures, security, and cooperation in Eurasia based on multipolarity and multilateralism, especially when it comes to the current joint Belarusian-Russian initiative called the Eurasian Charter of Diversity and Multipolarity.

Thank you.

polarity in the 21st century. President, for Belarus, implementing the SDGs is a key part of state development. Currently, the level of progress of Belarus toward implementing the SDGs is at 82%. In a number of indicators, Belarus is in a leading position and has already achieved some targets of the 2030 Agenda. An important achievement was ensuring universal access to basic social services, education, health, energy, high-quality housing, water sanitation, and transport. Our country has set goals for the post-2030 period as well. Last year, we adopted our National Sustainable Development Strategy of Belarus for 2040. That is a new fundamental document which lays out vectors of development in the country, taking into account current global challenges. Despite clear progress, Belarus, of course, as is the case with many of the developing countries, is facing a number of global challenges, including illegal sanctions which limit our national capacity, reducing the pace and scale of our implementation of the SDGs. We once again call for others to refrain from the harmful practice of unilateral restrictions which violate the economic and social rights not only of our countries but also undermine all efforts towards sustainable development. In closing, we would like to once again reaffirm our commitment to implementing the 2030 Agenda and our openness to cooperating with all interested parties Microphone was cut off.

I thank the distinguished representative of Belarus. Now I give the floor to the distinguished permanent representative of Brazil.

And the fundamental question is sustainable development for who? This week Brazil is showing tangible evidence of development in water, energy, and cities. We're also transparent in terms of Our national experience and our voluntary national review showed that progress can hide structural inequalities with regards to SDG number 9. The productive transformation in Brazil, which includes wind energy, green hydrogen, as well as railways, among others, contributes to Agenda 2030 because it reduces regional inequalities. In terms of SDG number 10, SDG 11 to reduce urban precarity. We see that this progress was designed bearing in mind persistent territorial inequalities. This is a shared challenge for large countries that are diverse and also in development, and it's precisely the kind of challenge that follow-up for SDGs was created to track. These objectives are deeply interconnected. Access to water improves health. Affordable energy that is accessible broadens access to economic opportunities. Adequate housing reduces exposure to floods and landslides, and financing, technology, data systems, and partnerships determine whether countries are able to meet the moment. Debates in this forum have shown that progress in terms of SDG 17 is possible. The question is whether the international financial architecture, mechanisms to transfer technologies, and frameworks for global partnerships are aligned with the magnitude and urgency of the challenge. Today, they are not. The civil commitment, the results of FFD4, and the recommendations of this forum should become instruments for implementation and not just be mere expressions of intent. Brazil considers that aggregate progress is not enough. Agenda 2030 is deeply interconnected and silos create gaps and gaps accumulate. The true measure of success of Agenda 2030 is not just whether countries are advancing on average, but whether they effectively reach those that have systematically been left behind. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished Permanent Representative of Brazil. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Fiji.

Mr. President, Excellencies, for Fiji, transformative action means turning commitments into measurable change in the daily lives of our people, in water, energy, infrastructure, and the safety of the places we call home. On Goal 6, we have made steady gains in essential water services, though sanitation remains our hardest task. On Goal 7, access to electricity has expanded, but our clean energy and transport transition must move faster. For Goals 9 and 11, our 2026 to 2027 budget invests in digital transformation, public works and transport, and in climate-resilient schools, coastal protection, and relocating communities displaced by rising oceans. ESCAP's analysis shows Fiji's progress on roughly a quarter of measurable SDG indicators. 10% are stagnating, 16% regressing, and 44% lack data entirely. Fiji takes this as a mandate, not a discouragement. Our 3rd Voluntary National Review in 2027 will show ESCAP We need speculation, not continuity. Mr. President, Goal 17 is where this is decided. The IMF notes our physical space is narrow and debt service competes directly with resilience. Our green and blue bonds and sustainable finance roadmap show that innovation can unlock capital, but markets cannot substitute for the concessional finance long promised and not yet delivered. As Chair of the Pacific Islands Developing States, Fiji will keep pressing to move the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index from advocacy to operation. It must complement existing metrics, not replace them, and the Pacific Resilience Facility must reach communities without the delays we no longer afford. Fiji comes neither to overstate progress nor to recite vulnerability, but to name our shortfalls all honestly and to deliver. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Fiji. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Singapore. Just before that, if any delegation is ready to speak now, please contact the Secretariat now.

Mr. President, the latest SDG report offers a sobering assessment The world remains dangerously off-track in achieving the SDGs. Yet the gap between commitment and delivery is not due to a lack of solutions. When long-term planning, financing, technology and partnerships converge, progress follows. Singapore's development journey is testament to this. As a small island developing state with no natural resources, we have had to pursue sustainable development as one integrated system. We closed our water loop through our 4 National Taps strategy. We are scaling up solar power and importing low-carbon electricity through regional grids, including the Lao PDR-Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore Power Integration Project, and are charting a path to net zero by 2050. And we plan land use, housing, transport, and greenery as a single whole to keep our dense city-state liveable and resilient. Innovation and technology have been our catalyst and accelerator. Membrane technology enabled large-scale recycling of used water. Digitalisation and artificial intelligence now help us manage our utilities, optimise our energy grid, and plan our city. Sustained investment in research and innovation keeps building the resilient infrastructure and industries on which long-term growth depends. None of this was achieved alone, and it cannot be sustained alone. Partnerships must work at every level. Government-to-government, we share our development experience with fellow developing countries through the Singapore Cooperation Programme, in which more than 165,000 officials from more than 180 countries have participated. Business-to-business, commercial partnerships can deploy capital, technology and expertise at a scale no government can match. Platforms like the Singapore International Water Week and World Cities Summit exist precisely to so that it can build on and not begin these reflections. Singapore stands ready to work with all partners and stakeholders to accelerate the full and effective implementation of the SDGs. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Singapore. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I will now suspend suspend the meeting for 5 minutes, and then if any delegation is ready, you can just contact to the secretary right now.

Thank you very much.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, now I would like to invite the distinguished Permanent Representative of Latvia for her statement.

Thank you very much, President. I understand that we're filling in and organizing the time as as we can, so I'm happy to be here. Mr. President, Excellencies, and dear colleagues, first of all, Latvia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. It has been almost 4,000 days since the adoption of 2030. There are more than 1,000 days until 2030. There has been enough time for commitments, enough time for reflections, enough time to draw conclusions. But let me stress that there is still time, enough time for action. Since the start of the implementation of the SDGs, Latvia has been actively doing its homework on local, national, but also international level. And we would like to highlight our 3 priorities. First, integrated governance and territorial resilience. From Latvia's perspective, sustainable urban development means balanced territorial development. Our priority is to strengthen regional centers, improve connectivity, and ensure equal access to quality public services across cities and rural areas. This approach supports social cohesion, resilience, and long-term competitiveness, and that is essential for leaving no one behind. Second, evidence-based policymaking. Reliable local-level data, geospatial information, and digital solutions enable municipalities to make fact-based decisions and target investments based on data. Third, resilient and climate-neutral communities. Latvia continues investing in renewable energy and energy efficiency, sustainable mobility, green infrastructure, and digital public services. These investments improve quality of life while strengthening resilience to climate, economic, and security challenges. Sustainable cities and communities contribute directly to climate action, health, innovation, social inclusion, and economic growth. Dear colleagues, conflict and war severely affect development of any country. Russia's aggression against Ukraine is a hard example, so Latvia continues to provide assistance to reconstruct Ukraine's war-damaged social infrastructure, housing, and energy grids. We all know there can be no peace without sustainable development, and no sustainable development without peace. So, Latvia also remains committed to sustainable development through development cooperation, especially in partner countries in EU's eastern neighbourhood, Central Asia, and Africa. We support good governance, digital transformation, gender equality, and entrepreneurship in our partner countries. And as a current member of the Security Council, we emphasize that stronger rules-based international order and more effective, fit-for-purpose United Nations is necessary for global peace.

I thank the distinguished Permanent Representative of Latvia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished Permanent Representative representative of Uruguay, speaking on behalf of the Group of G77 and China.

Thank you, Mr. President.

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. The 2026 High-Level Political Forum convenes at a critical juncture, with only 4 years remaining to achieve SDGs, progress remains uneven and in many cases far off track. Multiple and serious challenges have compounded inequalities and reversed hard-won development gains, particularly in developing countries. Despite significant efforts, the current pace and scale of implementation remain insufficient to achieve sustainable development for all, particularly for the poorest and most vulnerable, falling short of the pledge to leave no one behind. In this regard, the Group re-emphasizes that the eradication of poverty in all its forms and dimensions, including extreme poverty, remains the greatest global challenge and an indispensable requirement for sustainable development. It must therefore remain at the center of our work. Mr. President, at a time of growing global uncertainties and complexities, the Group reaffirms its full adherence to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. And its commitment to advancing the Organization's 3 pillars. There can be no sustainable development without peace and no peace without sustainable development. The Group underscores that unilateral coercive measures contrary to international law and the Charter undermine the ability of developing countries to achieve the SDGs. We stress the need to address the severe difficulties faced by countries and peoples living under colonial and foreign occupation. We also remind the need to to respect the territorial integrity and national unity of states in accordance with the Charter. The Group further reaffirms all the principles of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, including the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. We underscored that adequate means of implementation are central to building a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable future. Without enhanced international cooperation and the fulfillment of commitments, the goal The goals will remain beyond reach for many developing countries. Mr. President, while recalling that the SDGs are integrated, indivisible, and interlinked, the Group wishes to highlight key priorities related to the goals under review. On Goal 6, we underscored that access to safe and affordable drinking water and sanitation is fundamental to sustainable development, poverty eradication, and public health. We call for a stronger international cooperation, increased public and concessional financing and greater investment in climate-resilient water infrastructure. On Goal 7, the Group is deeply concerned that close to 655 million people remain without access to electricity and over 2 billion lack access to clean cooking. Energy transitions must be just, orderly, and equitable, reflecting national circumstances and the development priorities of developing countries. Countries. On Goal 9, the Group stresses that industrialization is critical for structural transformation, economic diversification, and job creation, yet many developing countries continue to face structural constraints that limit their participation in global manufacturing and value chains. Bridging the digital divide also requires meaningful technology transfer on concessional and preferential terms. On Goal 11, Rapid urbanization continues to present major challenges. Sustainable and inclusive urban development is essential to ensure affordable housing, sustainable transport, disaster risk reduction, and resilient infrastructure, particularly for the most vulnerable. Goal 17 remains the cornerstone of the 2030 Agenda. The Group reiterates the need to reform the international financial architecture with the full and effective participation of developing countries in decision-making processes. Urgent action is also needed to achieve debt sustainability, fulfill official development assistance commitments, deliver climate finance in line with existing obligations, and implement the Sevilla Commitment in a timely and effective manner. South-South cooperation complements but does not substitute for North-South cooperation. In conclusion, Mr. President, 2030 is now within sight and the time for incremental action has us. Achieving sustainable development for all requires a renewed and far stronger collective commitment to translate our shared goals into tangible results. The G77 and China stands ready to engage constructively to that end.

I thank you.

I thank the Permanent Representative of Uruguay speaking on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nepal.

Excellencies, Nepal Alliance itself with this statement delivered on behalf of G77 and China and the Group of LDCs. We welcome the convening of the HLP of 2026 as a timely opportunity to galvanize political commitment and scale the means of implementation for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Excellencies, the Secretary-General's report is a stark reminder that the world remains far off track to achieve the 2030 Agenda. Climate disasters, conflict, geopolitical tensions, debt distress, declining ODA, supply chain disruptions, and widening economic and digital divides continue to erode hard-won development gains, with the greatest impact on nations furthest behind. Despite these headwinds, Nepal has made considerable progress towards SDGs. We have significantly reduced poverty, expanded electricity access, to more than 95% of households, achieved near-universal primary school enrollment, standard material health, maternal health, and enhanced women's participation in governance. Access to basic water supply and sanitation now exceeds 95%, alongside continued progress in safer housing, road connectivity, resilient infrastructure, planned urbanization, innovation, and disaster resilience. We have mainstreamed the SDGs into national, provincial, and local development planning while strengthening institutions, accountability, and community participation. Nepal's experience demonstrates that inclusive governance, empowered local governments, and locally driven solutions are powerful enablers of sustainable development. Our post-Beyanar Action Plan provides a concrete roadmap for implementation, emphasizing localization, financing, monitoring, and digital transformation. However, fiscal and supply-side constraints, low productivity, climate vulnerability, infrastructure and capacity gaps, inadequate access to affordable financing and technology continue to impede SDG progress. Mr. President, against this backdrop, allow me to highlight 5 priorities. First, we must urgently close the SDG financing gap. This requires delivering on longstanding ODA commitment, expanding concessional and climate finance, mobilizing greater private investment, deploying de-risking instruments and debt sustainability tools, and enhancing targeted international support for countries with the greatest needs. Second, renewed global solidarity and stronger multilateral cooperation are indispensable. We need enhanced support for technology transfer, capacity building, innovation, digital transformation, and youth entrepreneurship, alongside a fairer and more inclusive trading system and meaningful reforms of the international financial architecture to make it more responsive, equitable, and fit for purpose. Third, local governments and communities must be empowered as key partners of transformation, strengthening local capacities, ensuring inclusive participation.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nepal. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of

Mr. President, the advancement of human development depends on the political will of states to advance it. Instead, as Pope Leo XIV recently affirmed, history can be changed for the better when individuals truly take the dignity of everyone seriously. Development, first of all, it's the comprehensive rescue of people from hunger, disease, illiteracy and deprivation. Economically, it means equal participation in global processes. Socially, the building of educated, solidarity-based societies. And politically, the strengthening of democratic institutions guaranteeing freedom and peace. However, while economic growth has been real and has been lifted billions out of extreme poverty, enabling many countries to become significant global players, it is marred by serious dysfunctions such as increasing inequalities, both between and within countries, and new forms of poverty. For the international community to deliver on sustainable development, it must combat these dysfunctions. In this regard, my delegation wishes to reiterate that every truly just society is built upon recognition of the inviolable dignity of the human person. Such dignity precedes any concession by the state and cannot be subordinated to shifting social consensus. This conviction must underpin every urgent and transformative action. Mr. President, the international community is at a point where discussions about transformation are becoming more and more interwoven with those concerning artificial intelligence. AI has the potential to accelerate the progress on SDGs, including those under review this year. At the same time, any transformation that undermines the God-given dignity of the human person, however efficient, profitable, or innovative it may appear, cannot be described as delivering better. Instead, it would undermine the very vision of sustainable development set out in the 2030 Agenda, which places the human person at the heart of all development efforts. Indeed, the true measure of improvement will not lie in the sophistication of emerging technologies, but in whether or not they are put at the service of the human person. Allow me, Mr. President, to conclude these words of— these were the words of Pope Leo XIV: Lasting peace, integral and sustainable human development are possible only through the participation of all. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Holy See, and we have just heard the last speaker for this meeting. Excellencies and distinguished delegates, the exercise of the right of reply has been requested in accordance with Rule 46 Thank you very much. I should like to remind delegations that number of the intervention in, in the exercise of the right of reply for any delegations at a given meeting should be limited to 2 per item. The first intervention should be limited to 5 minutes and the second to 3 minutes. With this, I would like to give the floor to the representative of India.

Thank you, Mr. President.

It was not our intention to bring bilateral issues in this forum, but my delegation is compelled to respond to Pakistan as it has chosen to misuse today's discussion to peddle its false narrative.

Our position on the Indus Water Treaty remains clear and consistent. Cooperation on the basis of mutual trust and goodwill cannot be expected when cross-border terrorism is regularly deployed as an instrument of state policy.

Instead of pointing fingers at India, Pakistan would serve itself and its people far better by putting its own house in order. I thank you.

I thank the representative of India. Now I give the floor to the representative of China.

President, the representative of St. Kitts and Nevis used a wrong designation for the Taiwan Province of China. It is a flagrant violation of the purpose and principle of the UN Charter, a breach of GA Resolution 2758 and its core one-China principle, and interference in China's internal affairs, which China deplores and firmly rejects. There's only one China in the world. Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory.

Thank you.

And the government of the PRC is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. Security Resolution 2758 has completely resolved the question of representation of the whole of China, including Taiwan, in the U.N., politically, legally, and procedurally. The sole designation for Taiwan region in the U.N. is Taiwan Province of China. 183 countries around the world have established diplomatic relations with China on the basis of the one-China principle. It fully demonstrates that upholding the one-China principle is the right thing to do. It is where the public opinion trends and arc of history bends. We request Sunkits and Nevis to immediately correct his wrongdoing, strictly abide by the one-China principle, respect the J Resolution 2758, stop interfering in China's internal affairs. Thank you.

I thank the representative of China. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, we have come to the conclusion of today's general debate. We shall continue to hear speakers in the general debate tomorrow, Tuesday, 14 July, at 3 PM in this chamber. The meeting is adjourned.

Thank you.