General Assembly: 101st plenary meeting, 80th session

Distinguished colleagues, friends, very good morning to all of you. The 101st Plenary Meeting of the General Assembly is called to order. Distinguished colleagues, the Assembly will resume its consideration of Agenda Item 127 entitled Global Health and Foreign Policy to take action on the proposals announced in the journal. Before proceeding further, I should like to inform members that the Assembly will hold a debate on this item at a later date to be announced. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation to introduce the the draft amendments contained in documents A/80/L91 and A/80/L92.

Mr. President, first and foremost, we wish to note the fact that our delegation has constructively participated in the negotiations process on reaching agreement on the resolution on the modalities for the organization of a high-level meeting on universal health coverage. We trust that this thematic event will be successfully held in 2027. We are compelled to note the fact that the document under consideration today continues to have contentious provisions which are not consensus-based. During discussion of operative paragraph 6, member states did not manage to bring together positions nor to find common ground. And this pertains to terminology that is used about broader communities, which provides for a loose interpretation, subjective interpretation. We believe that this term could not be used in general, insofar as today we are talking first and foremost about a technical resolution, about the organizational aspects of the high-level meeting. This is precisely why we decided to take a decision to propose an amendment, A/80/L91, in order to delete the contentious language from OP6. Moreover, we wish to draw attention to the fact that more than 10 years ago, the General Assembly of the United Nations established a practice of civil society participation in high-level meetings on the principle of non-objective— non-objection principle, which allowed for support to be extended to the intergovernmental nature of the United Nations. However, the working methods which were in effect prior to today continue to be cast into doubt, and this is undermining solidarity and unity. In this connection, we propose that there be another amendment brought for consideration in order to abandon what is non-consensus-based, the language in OP 10 of the draft resolution. Our proposal, A/80/L92, is to delete from the latter part of the paragraph and to bring the list to the attention of the Assembly for a final decision by the Assembly and participation in the high-level meeting.

Thank you.

We call upon member states to support our amendments, thereby to reaffirm the intergovernmental nature of the work of the General Assembly and desire to seek mutually acceptable solutions. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. We shall now proceed to consider Draft Resolution A/80/L87 and Draft Amendments A/80/L91 and A/80/L92. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Thank you, Mr. President. I will first deliver an oral statement of program budget implications, followed by an oral statement of meeting scheduling implications in connection with draft resolution A/80/L87. The present oral statement is made in the context of Rule 153 of the Rules of Procedure of the General Assembly. The present statement has also been distributed to member states. In the interest of time and in light of the fact that the oral statement has been circulated, The text contained in operative paragraphs 1, 3, 4, 6, and 12 of the draft resolution will not be read out. The requests contained in operative paragraphs 1, 3, 4, 6, and 12 of the draft resolution would constitute additional workload for the Department for General Assembly and Conference Management, Section 2, The Department for Global Communications, Section 28, and the Office of Information and Communications Technology, Section 29C. For the Department for General Assembly and Conference Management, the decisions to convene the one-day high-level meeting and organize the 2 multi-stakeholder panels as contained in operative paragraphs 1 and 3 and 4, respectively, of the draft resolution would entail additional resource requirements estimated at $33,600, excluding staff assessment, in 2027 for interpretation in 6 languages for 5 meetings of 3 hours each during regular as well as non-regular hours. For the Department for Global Communications, the meetings as referenced in operative paragraph 12 would entail additional resource requirements estimated at $1,800 in 2027 for webcasting services. And for the Office of Information and Communications Technology, the meetings referenced in operative paragraphs 1, 3, 4, and 6 would entail additional resource requirements estimated at $9,400 in 2027 for ICT conferencing services. Should the General Assembly adopt Draft Resolution A/80/L87, the Secretariat will, to the extent possible, seek to absorb the requirements within the overall approved regular budget resources for 2027, with any portion that cannot be resolved— absorbed to be reported in the context of the Financial Performance Report for the year. The Secretariat wishes to inform the General Assembly that its ability to implement the mandate will depend on the availability of adequate liquidity resources. Coming now to the second oral statement. The following statement is made pursuant to paragraph 20 of Resolution 77/335 of 1 September 2023, in which the General Assembly requested the Secretariat to draw the attention of the General Assembly and its subsidiary organs to overlapping high-level meetings of the Assembly prior to action on proposals that mandate the holding of meetings of the Assembly on specific dates. Under the terms of operative paragraph 1 of the draft resolution, the Assembly would decide that the 1-day high-level meeting on universal health coverage to be convened by the President of the General Assembly in collaboration with the World Health Organization shall be held at United Nations headquarters in New York in September 2026. 7 during the General Debate of the Assembly at its 82nd session from 10 AM to 6 PM and will consist of an opening segment, a plenary segment for general discussion, 2 multi-stakeholder panels, and a brief closing segment. This meeting would overlap with the General Debate at the 82nd session. Additionally, it should be noted that the following meetings are also scheduled for the same period. One, the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development convened under the auspices of the General Assembly, held pursuant to Resolution 67/290 and 75/290B. Two, the High-Level Dialogue on Financing for Development of the General Assembly, held pursuant to Resolution 69/290. 3, the high-level panel to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, held pursuant to Resolution 79/159. And 4, the high-level plenary meeting to commemorate and promote the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, held pursuant to Resolution 80/49. It is recalled that in paragraph 24 of its Resolution 79/327, the Assembly decided, starting from the 81st session, to limit the number of high-level meetings mandated by the Assembly to be convened during the High-Level Week to a maximum of 3. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the representative of the Secretariat. Distinguished colleagues, I would like to inform you that the draft amendments have closed for e-sponsorship. I now give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Thank you, Mr. President. I should like to announce that since the submission of draft amendment A/80/L91, and in addition to the delegation listed on the document, no additional countries have become co-sponsors of this draft amendment. If any other countries wish to co-sponsor A/80/L91, please signify by pressing the microphone button.

Thank you.

I see none. Coming now to draft amendment A/AT/L92, I should like to announce that since the submission of the draft amendment and in addition to the delegation listed on the L document, no additional countries have become co-sponsors of this draft amendment. If any other countries wish to co-sponsor A/AT/L92, To please signify by pressing the microphone button. I see none. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the Secretariat. Delegations wishing to make a statement in the explanation of vote before the vote on any proposal under this item, including the draft amendments, are invited to do so in one intervention. After action on all of the items, there will be an opportunity for explanation of vote after the vote, or any or all of them. Before giving the floor for explanation of vote before the vote, as announced in the President's letter dated 6 January and 20 May 2026. I propose that the time limits for statements in explanation of vote under this item be 5 minutes. Is there any objection to this proposal? I hear none. It is so decided. Accordingly, Pursuant to Rule 72 of the Rules of Procedure of the Assembly, when a representative exceeds her or his allotted time, the President shall call the speaker to order without delay, which will be done by means of automatic microphone cutoff. To assist delegations in managing their time, a countdown clock will be displayed on the screens. Members are also reminded that explanations of vote should be made by delegations from their seats. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United States.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States appreciates the work of the co-facilitators and our fellow member states during the negotiations on this resolution. However, we cannot and will not support a resolution text that compromises fiscal sanity, tramples on national sovereignty, and pushes a bloated bureaucratic agenda. Let's be clear about what is happening here. We are witnessing an unsustainable proliferation of resource-intensive, high-level meetings and redundant interactive hearings that place an unacceptable financial and administrative burden on the United Nations regular budget. If the international community wants to seriously evaluate healthcare gaps and implement actual solutions, it should utilize existing technical forums rather than creating new expensive platforms that achieve nothing but more paperwork. Furthermore, the United States firmly rejects any attempt by international bodies to dictate how sovereign nations design, deliver, or finance their domestic healthcare systems. Health system design is a strictly sovereign responsibility determined by national contexts. We strongly object to language in this text that attempts to globalize specific top-down healthcare financing mechanisms or impose prescriptive mandates. True progress and sustainable health outcomes do not come from UN mandates. They come from multi-stakeholder partnerships, robust public-private collaboration, and the kind of market-driven innovation that America leads the world in. Additionally, the United States would also like to make points of clarification on language contained in the resolution. We underscore that UN General Assembly resolutions are non-binding documents that do not create rights or obligations under international law. The United States has made clear that the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals impinge upon state sovereignty as a soft form of global governance, and that we will no longer reaffirm them as a matter of course. It is the policy of the United States to recognize 2 sexes, male and female, To achieve this, we will use clear and accurate language that recognizes women are biologically female and men are biologically male. The United States expects the United Nations to ensure that its documents and programming align with that policy by using terminology that clearly refers to women and men, girls and boys, and avoids ambiguous terms. The United States withdrew from the World Health Organization due to the organization's mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic that arose out of Wuhan, China, and other global health crises, its failure to adopt urgently needed reforms, and its inability to demonstrate independence from the inappropriate political influence of WHO member states. The United States stands ready to work with any nation that shares our goal: to restore the UN's founding purpose and ensure it delivers real results for the nations and peoples it serves. We stand ready to cooperate on shared concerns, solutions, and reforms.

Thank you.

I thank the representative of the United States. I now give the floor to the representative of Ireland to speak on behalf of the European Union.

Thank you, President. I have the honor of taking the floor on behalf of the EU and its member states. We have called a vote on the Russian Federation's amendment A/80/L92 to operative paragraph 10 of draft decision A/80/L92. On the scope, modalities, format, and organization of the High-Level Meeting on Universal Health Coverage. President, we view the 2027 High-Level Meeting on Universal Health Coverage as a critical milestone in our collective efforts to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all throughout the life course. In order to be successful, the high-level meeting should allow for the participation of all relevant stakeholders. The language in OP/10, which has been adopted repeatedly by the General Assembly, ensures maximum fairness and transparency by giving the decision-making power to the General Assembly rather than any single member state, and allowing for requests on the reasons for objections. For this reason, we decide to call a vote on the amendment on operative paragraph 10 presented by the Russian Federation.

I thank you.

We have heard the— I thank the distinguished representative of Ireland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.

Thank you, President. We call to vote amendment proposal by Russian Federation, L91, regarding the OP6. Japan considers the 2027 High-Level Meeting on the Universal Health Coverage to be a critically important opportunity. As we approach 2030, this meeting comes at the right moment to take stock of the remaining challenges to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and to accelerate our collective efforts. Japan has maintained universal coverage for 65 years since achieving it. USAID is not something that once achieved can simply be taken for the granted. It must continuously evolve in the response to emerging challenges, including the HIV pandemics and growing burden of the NCDs, rising healthcare costs driven by innovative medicine and technology, and demographic changes such as population aging and declining birth rates. Most recently, Japan undertook the review of its high-cost medical expense benefit system. Through that process, we are reminded once again of the, of the importance of listening carefully to the voices of those most directly affected, including the patient organization and civil society. Guided by the principle of leaving no one behind, we must continue to listen to diverse voices in order to carefully consider the financial hardship and to ensure the access to the healthcare services people need. As we work towards a political declaration that reaffirms the importance of universal health coverage and leads to concrete action, we believe the multi-stakeholder hearing in preparation for the high-level meeting should also hear from as broad a range of the voices as possible. From this perspective, we believe it's essential that in addition to the groups already listed in OP6, the term broader communities be retained. Accordingly, we— Japan families oppose Amendment 91, which seeks to delete the reference to the broader communities. We hope many member states will also oppose this amendment. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Japan. Distinguished colleagues, we have heard the last speaker in explanation of the board before the vote. We will now proceed to take decision on draft resolution A/80/L87. In accordance with Rule 90 of the Rules of Procedure, the Assembly will first take a decision on draft amendments A/80/L91 and A/80/L92 The Assembly will first take a decision on Draft Amendment A/80/L91. A recorded vote has been requested. We shall now begin the voting process. Those in favour of Draft Amendment A/80/L91, Please signify. Those against? Abstentions?

The Assembly is now voting on draft amendment A/80/L91. Will all delegations confirm that their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? Will all delegations confirm that their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the machine.

Thank you.

The result of the vote is as follows: in favor, 22; against, 76; abstentions, 30. Draft Amendment A/80/L91 is not adopted. The Assembly will now take a decision on Draft Amendment A/80/L92. A recorded vote has been requested. We shall now proceed to the voting process. Those in favor of draft amendment A/80/L92, please signify. Those against, abstentions.

The Assembly is now voting on draft amendment A/80/L92. Will all delegations confirm that their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the machine.

The result of the vote is as follows: in favor, 20; against, 76; abstentions, 38. Draft Amendment A/80/L92 Is not adopted. Distinguished colleagues, since draft amendments A/80/L91 and A/80/L92 were not adopted, we shall proceed to take a decision on draft resolution A/80/L93. The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/80/L87 entitled Scope, Modalities, Format and Organization of High-Level Meeting on Universal Health Coverage. A recorded vote has been requested. We shall now begin the voting process. Those in favor of Draft Resolution A/80/L87, please signify. Those against, abstentions.

The Assembly is now voting on Draft Resolution A/80/L87 entitled Scope, Modalities, Format, and Organization of the High-Level Will all delegations confirm that their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the machine.

The result of the vote is as follows. In favor, 141. Against, 3. Abstentions, 0. Draft Resolution A/80/L87 is adopted. Distinguished colleagues, before giving the floor for explanation of vote, after the vote. May I remind delegations that explanations of vote are limited to 5 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats. I now give the floor to the representative of Türkiye.

Thank you, Mr. President. Türkiye is committed to supporting the active participation of NGOs, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and the private sector in the work of the UN, as this is essential for achieving our common goals. A large number of NGOs, as well as other stakeholders from Türkiye, have already been contributing to all spheres of work of the UN and working together with the UN all over the globe, in particular in most vulnerable countries. We strongly support the participation of NGOs and other stakeholders to the work of the UN, as long as their objectives and activities are in line with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the UN. Mr. President, Turkey supports those NGOs and other stakeholders whose activities will contribute to the High-Level Meeting on UHC. Yet we cannot underestimate the fact that some NGOs may engage in activities that run counter to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the UN and engage in politically motivated acts against some Member States. As a long-standing member of the NGO Committee, we have encountered numerous cases where ECOSOC consultative status and participation in various UN meetings was abused by certain organizations. This leads to unnecessary politicization of discussions, which makes it difficult to achieve constructive dialogue and consensus. We believe that the criteria and principles formulated in ECOSOC Resolution 1996/31 should apply to all NGOs who seek to participate in the conferences and meetings of the UN. Mr. President, we believe that participation of NGOs in the UN process should be handled in good faith between concerned Member States that may have full information about the activities of the NGOs in question. As a matter of fact, for the purposes of transparency, for an informed decision-making, it is highly important for Member States to know in detail how those NGOs and stakeholders plan to contribute to the High-Level Meeting. Under the adopted resolution, however, it is in our view that the General Assembly will be required to take a decision on NGO participation without adequate information. While we support the need for an expedited process for NGOs that do not hold consultative status with ECOSOC, we remain concerned that in the absence of adequate information to assess applications, the resulting decision by the General Assembly would be uninformed, effectively rendering the non-objection basis redundant. That is why Türkiye voted in favor of the amendment L.92. Since the amendment is not adopted, Türkiye disassociates itself from OP10 of this resolution. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Türkiye. I now give the floor to Cuba.

Muchas gracias, señor.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. We voted in favor of the text believing that universal health coverage constitutes an essential goal to guarantee the effective enjoyment of the right to health and to move towards the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. Health cannot be conceived of as a privilege or a good to be traded. Rather, it is a fundamental human right that states have the responsibility to guarantee without discrimination. Cuba, even in the most difficult of circumstances, has proven that it is possible to build a universal public free, accessible health system that is based on primary healthcare. Our country has achieved health indicators that are comparable to developed nations. We maintain a broad network of health services across the country's territory, and we continue to train healthcare professionals that are committed to the well-being of our people and to international cooperation. Thousands of Cuban workers have lent medical assistance in dozens of countries, helping contribute to access to essential services for millions of people. However, these efforts face extraordinary obstacles as a consequence of the intensified blockade imposed by the government of the United States against Cuba, which is exacerbated by the energy siege, which constitutes a criminal siege, which is an impingement upon life, It directly affects medical care and basic human safety and security. Financial and commercial restrictions are hindering the acquisition of medicines and medical technologies, spare parts, specialized equipment, and essential primary inputs for the national production of medicines. Moreover, they are limiting access to credit, making imports more expensive, and impacting supply chains. The lack of fuel is preventing the normal functioning of hospitals, polyclinics, labs, ambulance services, refrigeration services for medicines and vaccines, and other critical infrastructure within the healthcare system. The surgery waitlist is growing. The maternal infant care program is facing the challenge of providing care for 22,000 pregnant women while the lack of fuel is making it harder to ensure refrigerated transport for the timely vaccination of more than 30,000 children. And these are just a few examples. The blockade exists, it is killing, and it is contradictory to the principles of solidarity and international cooperation that inspire this resolution. Universal health coverage. aimed at achieving that goal. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Cuba. I now give the floor to Argentina.

Thank you, Mr. President. The delegation of the Argentine Republic reaffirms its commitment to the objective of all people having access to health— essential good quality health services for the promotion of health. And also prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care throughout the life cycle. However, Argentina voted against this resolution because we consider that despite its essentially procedural nature, the text incorporates references to programmatic and institutional frameworks that exceed— go beyond its specific aim. In particular, it includes references to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its gives a role to the World Health Organization in respect of which the Argentine Republic maintains reservations. Argentina understands that the modalities for holding a high-level meeting should be limited to the aspects necessary for its organization, avoiding the inclusion of references that are not essential for that purpose and which do not reflect national health and international health policies. Our vote should not be interpreted as questioning the goal of expanding access to good quality health services, but rather a reaffirmation of the need to preserve the strictly procedural nature of this type of resolution and to avoid the inclusion of programmatic and institutional references in the resolution that go beyond that purpose. Thank you very much, Mr. President.

I thank the representative of Argentina. I now give the floor

Thank you, Mr.

Chair. Sorry, Mr. President. The Islamic Republic of Iran voted in favor of the resolution which— on the draft resolution AS/AT/L.87, which concerns the procedural arrangement for the 2027 High-Level Meeting on Universal Health Coverage. Thank you, Mr. President. Our support for this procedure is without prejudice to our established national positions and legal framework. We underscore that the implementation of any outcome of the high-level meeting, including any future political declaration, shall be undertaken solely in accordance with the Constitution, national laws and regulations, and national priorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Furthermore, we emphasize that this resolution is procedural and non-binding in nature. Accordingly, neither this resolution nor any future political declaration adopted pursuant to it creates, modifies, or expands existing international legal obligations, nor does it establish any new commitment for member states. Any commitment undertaken by states remains subject to their sovereign consent and applicable national legal frameworks. Finally, our participation in the preparatory process should not be construed as acceptance of any concepts or terminology that are inconsistent with our national laws, cultural and religious values, or our longstanding positions in the United Nations. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. I now give the floor to Timur Leste.

Thank you, Mr.

Chair.

Timor-Leste welcomes the adoption of the text. We commend the core groups for their leadership in advancing this important initiative. For countries like Timor-Leste, health is not only a public health issue but a development imperative. Health outcomes are shaped by the structural vulnerabilities, including environmental degradation, weak infrastructure, and unequal access to essential services. Unless these underlying challenges are addressed, universal health coverage and Sustainable Development Goals will remain beyond reach. The resolution rightly recognized that improving health requires a whole-of-government approach. Investments in education, nutrition, clean water, sanitation, housing, environment protection— environmental protection and social protection are also investments in healthier and more resilient societies. At the same time, strong primary healthcare supported by a well-trained workforce and resilient institutions remains foundation of prevention, preparedness, and equitable access to quality health services. For Timor-Leste, climate change further compounds these challenges. Floods, droughts, and landslides damage health infrastructure, threaten livelihoods, and increase the risks of disease and malnutrition. Building climate-resilient health systems must therefore be an integral part of sustainable development. Lasting progress also requires stronger national ownership, strengthened domestic capacity, and predictable financing. International cooperation should empower countries to lead their own health priorities while promoting regional collaboration, including Timor-Leste's participation in ASEAN, to enhance preparedness and improve access to essential medicines and health technologies. Mr. President, that is why Timor-Leste supports this resolution. It recognizes that health is both a driver and an outcome of sustainable development, and that addressing the social determinants of health is essential to building more equitable, resilient, and inclusive societies. We remain committed to working with all member states and partners to translate these commitments into meaningful action.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste. I now give the floor to China.

Thank you, President. China welcomes the adoption of the relevant resolution by the United Nations General Assembly. Universal healthcare coverage is an important component of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The Chinese government places the protection of people's health at the forefront of its development strategy, focusing on achieving universal health coverage China has continuously deepened healthcare and pharmaceutical reform and worked to build an integrated healthcare service system. China has cooperated with the WHO in carrying out healthcare reform pilot projects which have achieved positive progress and notable results. China stands ready to contribute its wisdom and strength to accelerating the realization of universal health coverage and promoting the sustainable development of global public health together with all countries in building a global community of health for all. In addition, China has taken note of the remarks made by the U.S. representative concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, China has adhered to the principle of putting people and lives first, working hand in hand with countries around the world to overcome difficulties. China has made significant contributions to international cooperation against the pandemic, The timeline of China's response to COVID-19 is clear, and the facts and data are plain to see. These efforts have been widely recognized by the international community and should not be distorted or smeared at will. China firmly opposes the politicization of the pandemic, attempts to engage in political manipulation under the pretext of COVID-19, and efforts to shift blame and responsibility onto China. As the authoritative and professional international organization in the field of global public health, WHO plays a central coordinating role in global health governance. Its role should be strengthened, not weakened. China will continue, as always, to support the World Health Organization in fulfilling its mandate, deepen international cooperation in public health, and strengthen global health governance. I thank you, President.

I thank the distinguished representative of China. Distinguished colleagues, we have heard the last speaker in explanation of vote. After the vote, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to His Excellency Joan Forner Rovira, the Permanent Representative of Andorra to the United Nations, and His Excellency Permanent Representative of Thailand to the United Nations, who ably and patiently conducted the discussions and complex negotiations in the informal consultations on the draft resolution. I am sure members of the Assembly join me in extending them our sincere appreciation. The Assembly has thus concluded this— at this stage of its consideration of Agenda Item 127. Distinguished colleagues, the Assembly will resume its consideration of Sub-item B of Agenda Item 31, Strengthening the Role of Mediation in Peaceful Settlement of Disputes. Disputes, Conflict Prevention and Resolution to hear the remaining speakers in the debate. Members are reminded that time limits for statements in the debate on the item will be 5 minutes for individual delegations speaking in their national capacity and 7 minutes for statements made on behalf of a group of states. Accordingly, pursuant to Rule 72 of the Rules of Procedure of the Assembly, when a representative exceeds her or his allotted time, the President shall call the speaker to order without delay, which will be done by means of automatic microphone cutoff. To assist delegations in managing their time, A countdown clock will be displayed on the screens. Please be aware that the remaining speaking time is displayed on the left side of— left-hand side of the rostrum. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco.

Mr. President, the Kingdom of Morocco's commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes is born out of a deep-rooted conviction and the constant strategic choice borne forth by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist him. He has made mediation a constant in our diplomacy and a profoundly African vocation. The lessons of history are unequivocal in this regard. Acting upstream, it always costs less in terms of human lives. It is cheaper than repairing the consequences. Dialogue is worth more than years of war, millions of displaced persons, and entire nations that need to be rebuilt. At a time when there are more and more hotbeds of conflict and tension and peacebuilding budgets are becoming more scarce, mediation remains our most human and most effective tool, the one that can act before the guns rather than after the ruins. And yet the needs have never been so The principles of the Charter are being openly defied. International humanitarian law is often trampled and confidence in multilateralism is being eroded to the point where someone who proposes reconciliation is often criticized for doing so. Mr. President, Marocko is not happy simply with defending longstanding mediation practices. Through the training of moshedeen, mosheedat, and imams through the Mohammed VI Foundation of the African Ulema, my country promotes this in a spirit of fraternity and effective solidarity. We are promoting a middle-ground Islam, putting Morocco and its partners at the forefront of prevention and the prevention of violent extremism, as well as through the good offices of the Al-Quds Committee chaired by His Majesty King Mohammed VI Megiddo system, Morocco is working tirelessly and constantly to preserve the quality of the Holy City and its inhabitants. And thirdly, through an uninterrupted tradition of good offices with tact and patience, Morocco puts its diplomacy to the service of dialogue among the fraternal peoples. And this action is based on a profound conviction that there can be no There can be no lasting and robust peace without national ownership, nor can there be credible mediation without scrupulous respect for national sovereignty or for the territorial integrity of U.N. members. Mr. President, allow me to bring to the attention of this august assembly the 3 following observations. Firstly, within regional contexts, it's easier to create a mediation. Under the enlightened leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. May God assist him. The Atlantic Initiative gives the countries of the Sahel access to the ocean and a horizon for lasting stability and shared stability because the best mediation is sometimes the one that helps create common interests. Secondly, women and young people need to not be the beneficiaries of peace but rather the architects of peace in accordance with the Women, Peace and Security Agenda. A mediation table without those people is an incomplete mediation table. And thirdly, we need to give life to the new agenda for peace and invest in national capacities for prevention and make preventive diplomacy a habit rather than an exception for hopeless situations. Mr. President, to conclude, No dispute is condemned to last forever. Faithful to its moderate traditions, the Kingdom of Morocco will continue to work on this tirelessly in the shared hope for a future that will not belong to weapons, but rather will belong to dialogue; not to division, but rather to the fraternity of nations. Thank you very much, Mr. President.

Thank the distinguished representative of Morocco. We have heard the last speaker in the debate on this item. The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of sub-item B of Agenda Item 31. Now we move to Item 3. The Assembly will resume Its consideration of Agenda Item 28, entitled Report of the Peacebuilding Commission, Agenda Item 62, entitled Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace, and Agenda Item 111, entitled Report of the Secretary-General on the Peacebuilding Fund, in a joint debate, to hear the remaining speakers in the debate. Members are reminded that time limits for statements in the joint debate on these items will be 5 minutes for individual delegations speaking in their national capacity and 7 minutes for statements made on behalf of a group of States. Accordingly, pursuant to Rule 72 of the Rules of Procedure of the Assembly, when a representative exceeds her or his allotted time, the President shall call the speaker to order without delay, which will be done by means of automatic microphone cutoff. To assist delegations in managing their time, a countdown clock will be displayed on the screens. Please be aware that the remaining speaking time is displayed on the left-hand side of the rostrum. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of El Salvador.

Mr. President, El Salvador is grateful for the presentation of the report of the Peacebuilding Commission on its 19th session and the report of the Secretary-General on the Peacebuilding Fund. We do this in a moment that is particularly relevant for this agenda. The recent adoption of the resolutions on the review of the Peacebuilding building architecture remind us that prevention, peacebuilding, and preserving peace are not abstract aspirations. Rather, they are concrete responsibilities of this organization. In an international context that is marked by prolonged conflicts, interconnected crises, and growing needs, investing in peacebuilding means investing in prevention, Mr. President, El Salvador has the honor currently to serve as a member of the Peacebuilding Commission after having been elected by this General Assembly. We shoulder this responsibility fully aware of the moment that the peacebuilding architecture is facing and with the conviction that the Commission must continue to be strengthened. as a relevant, flexible, and results-oriented political platform. Our vision of the future is clear: a Commission that provides more effective support for the national priorities of states, one that contributes to mobilizing the political, technical, and financial support needed, that strengthens the consistency and coherence of the United Nations system, and which allows peacebuilding to be transformed into tangible results for communities. El Salvador will work constructively to move in this direction, promoting a peacebuilding agenda that is focused on prevention, inclusion, youth, the participation of women, strengthening institutions, regional cooperation, and the sustainability of national efforts. Mr. President, allow me to take this opportunity to highlight the fundamental role of the Peacebuilding Fund. This is a flexible catalyzing tool that is focused on the ground level. In the case of El Salvador, the Fund support has accompanied efforts linked to youth participation, strengthening community leadership, the prevention of violence, and the generation of opportunities. It has also helped promote cross-border cooperation approaches in our region, particularly in the face of challenges linked to human mobility, reintegration, social cohesion, and peaceful coexistence. These efforts can only be sustained if national and local capacities are strengthened. And if there is appropriate, predictable, and long-term international support. For that reason, El Salvador believes it is essential to strengthen the strategic relationship between the Commission and the Fund, while at the same time preserving the agility, flexibility, and independence of the Fund. A Commission that is better connected to the impacts of the Fund can help improve the visibility of its results can help expand partnerships and mobilize resources in favor of national peacebuilding priorities. At the same time, we cannot ignore the gap between growing needs and available resources. El Salvador welcomes the beginning of quota-based financing in accordance with the mandates adopted by the General Assembly. However, we agree that these shares, these assessed quotas, are not a replacement for voluntary contributions. The flexibility of the Fund, its response capacity, and its catalyzing impact depend on an adequate, predictable, and sustainable financial basis. Therefore, we call for the strengthening of this financing for peacebuilding as it is a strategic investment in prevention, stability, and sustainable development. El Salvador will continue to work constructively to ensure that the Peacebuilding Commission and the Peacebuilding Fund can remain relevant, useful instruments that are close to the realities at the country level and close to the communities that they serve. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of El Salvador. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya.

Mr. President, Kenya congratulates Germany on the success of its stewardship of the 19th Peacebuilding Commission and appreciate the able leadership of the current Chair, Morocco. We thank the former Chair for the comprehensive report on the activities of the Commission during his tenure and acknowledge the Secretary-General's report of the Peacebuilding Fund. The reports provide a valuable assessment of the progress made in advancing the sustaining peace agenda, and the overabundant insights in the evolving role of the Peacebuilding Commission and the Peacebuilding Fund in advancing the peacebuilding and sustaining peace agenda. 3 positive developments stand out. One, the clear shift from reacting to crises to preventing them. More countries are taking the lead with their own prevention strategies with support from the PPC and the Peacebuilding Fund, underscoring that lasting peace works best when it is driven locally. Second, there is greater focus on factors that truly reflect sustainable peace, as trust, social cohesion, inclusion, and resilience despite the difficulties. Measurement. Third, partnerships are getting stronger and more inclusive. Collaboration improving cross-institutions with greater involvement from financial partners, women and youth, and local peacebuilders helping create a more connected and effective peacebuilding systems. At the same time, the report reminds us that that in today's increasingly constrained global financing environment, significant challenges remain despite the instant demand for peacebuilding support and evidence-based investment. Additionally, while localization has advanced as a policy objective, it has not always been matched by corresponding shifts in financing and decision-making authority. Local actors continue to face barriers in accessing direct, flexible, and long-term support despite being at the forefront of prevention and peacebuilding efforts. Further, demonstrating the value of prevention remains one of the most important challenges facing the peacebuilding architecture, particularly at a time when resources are under pressure and the demand for evidence-based investments continues to grow. As a member of the PPC, Kenya remains committed to advancing practical, inclusive, and sustainable approaches to peacebuilding and sustaining peace at the national, regional, and global levels. We have been actively engaged in the work of the Commission by sharing our lived experiences and lessons learned in conflict prevention, resilience building, and the nationally owned peacebuilding process.

processes.

We also contributed to ongoing deliberations on prevention, inclusion, peacebuilding financing, the 2025 Peacebuilding Architecture Review. We also co-hosted and actively participated in multiple side events during the inaugural Annual Peacebuilding Week. As we look forward ahead to the implementation of the 2025 Peacebuilding Architecture Review solutions, 3 priorities deserve particular attention. First, strengthening efforts to develop more robust framework for measuring prevention, resilience, social cohesion, and institutional trust. Second, expanding direct, practicable, and fracturable financing for nationally owned peacebuilding priorities and local peace infrastructure, including women-led and youth-led initiatives. Third, deepening partnership across the United Nations system, regional and sub-regional organizations, international financial institutions, civil society, academia, and the private sector in support of nationally determined BRICS building objectives. Ultimately, the success of BRICS building architecture will be measured by our ability to translate our commitments into tangible support for prevention, local ownership, and sustainable peace, especially for the communities most affected by conflict and fragility. Kenya remains committed to working with all member states and stakeholders to advance these objectives. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Kenya. I now give the floor I now turn the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar.

Thank you, Mr. President. We thank you for convening this important meeting that gives us an opportunity to renew our shared commitments to build peace. We align ourselves to the statement delivered on behalf of the GCC countries, and we welcome the reports on the item. Mr. President, Qatar is proud to be a member of the Peacebuilding Commission from 2023 and 2024. During our membership, we upheld the objectives of the Commission. As we believe in the important role of the Peacebuilding Fund, we contributed $200,000 between 2023 and 2024. the efforts of the Commission are consistent with our efforts in building peace. The SG report is an opportunity to take stock of the achievements over the past 2 years and to enhance the peacebuilding architecture as we face complex challenges. The report reiterates that peacebuilding is not restricted to post-conflict. It has become a continuum that requires investment in prevention and resilience. Resilience building and addressing root causes of conflicts through a comprehensive approach that combines peace and security, human rights, and development. This investment is less costly than managing conflicts after they have erupted. Accordingly, Qatar follows a foreign policy that is based on mediation and conflict resolution through peaceful means. Given the escalating conflicts in the world, Qatar intensified its mediation efforts in partnership with partners from the world, consistent with its efforts to achieve sustainable peace. The success of mediation efforts should be followed up with action nationally in a manner that will prevent the recurrence of conflict. And we welcome the review of peacebuilding architecture in 2025 and having this Peacebuilding Week as an opportunity to exchange views and to have dialogue. In conclusion, we reiterate our commitment to cooperating with the Peacebuilding Commission and Peacebuilding Fund. into 2030, we will have a review consistent with the Pact for the Future we adopted. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Qatar. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Dominican Republic.

Thank you very much for giving me the floor, Mr. President. It's an honor for me to address you today. We welcome the presentation of the Annual Report of the Secretary-General on the Peacebuilding Commission for its 19th session. To be an essential platform for bringing member states together along with the United Nations system, financial— international financial institutions, regional organizations and sub-regional organizations, civil society and local actors, all to support national peacebuilding priorities. We have seen the positive impact of the Commission and the Peacebuilding Fund. In providing support for countries that find an open space in this mechanism that is credible and impartial, impartial, a space where they can share their challenges and aspirations. On the basis of this progress, we need to continue strengthening coordination and consistency partnerships between the General Assembly, ECOSOC, and the Security Council in order to guarantee more comprehensive and sustained support. Mr. President, prevention must remain at the heart of our work. Intervening upstream means strengthening national capacities, promoting social cohesion, addressing the root causes of conflicts, and avoiding existing risks becoming major crises. Support countries from the very earliest signs of risk. Mr. President, financing remains a priority. The Dominican Republic recognizes the catalyzing role of the Peacebuilding Fund and welcomes the progress made towards more predictable and sustainable financing. Nevertheless, it is necessary to redouble our efforts to guarantee sufficient resources that will help preserve and consolidate the progress that has been achieved thus far. It is also essential to continue strengthening the role of women and of young people in peacebuilding. We value the progress reflected in the report and the efforts of the Commission to more systematically mainstream the women, peace and security and youth, peace and security agendas. That notwithstanding, it is essential to strengthen the financing of initiatives led by those groups to ensure their full and effective participation. Mr. President, to conclude, the Dominican Republic reiterates its support for efforts aimed at strengthening the commission— the Peacebuilding Commission and reaffirms its commitment to a more robust architecture, one that is better funded and action-oriented, that can effectively respond to national priorities. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Dominican Republic. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh.

Mr. President, at the outset, let me thank for convening this important joint debate. In observing the inaugural Annual Peacebuilding Week last month, we continue raising awareness on peacebuilding and sustaining peace in the region. Thank you.

efforts.

Mr. President, Bangladesh has a proud history of UN peacekeeping. Beyond peacekeeping, Bangladesh is working closely with all partners in enhancing the effectiveness of UN peacebuilding. At this time, when we are celebrating the 20 years of the UN peacebuilding architecture in the context of UN AT reform process, I wish to underline the following. First, national ownership must remain the cornerstone of peacebuilding. We want Peacebuilding Commission to continue its functions in line with local needs and national priorities by bringing all stakeholders into discussions. In doing so, Priority should be given to generation of employment opportunities by linking the local industry with international value chain and creation of environments for decent works, including for women and youth. Second, effective partnership among national actors, UN system, private sector, civil society, regional organizations, and international financial institutions are crucial in supporting the peacebuilding efforts on the ground. Third, in the context of current financial cuts, we need to strengthen our efforts for innovative resource mobilization. As a steadfast supporter of the Peacebuilding Fund, we encourage more Member States to increase their support for the Fund, enabling it to respond to growing demand. Fourth, enhanced support for the WPS and YPS agendas is necessary to reinforce inclusive approaches to peacebuilding and sustainable peace. Finally, we need to ensure that the PBAR recommendations are translated into actions. In conclusion, as the current Vice Chair of the Commission, Bangladesh reaffirms its commitment to working constructively to strengthen the Peacebuilding Commission's effectiveness and impact through the effective implementation of the 2025 Peacebuilding Architecture Review. I thank you all.

I thank the distinguished representative of Bangladesh. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Somalia.

Mr. President, Excellencies, Mr. President, distinguished delegates, at the outset, Somalia welcomes the convening of this annual General Assembly debate on peacebuilding and sustaining peace, and welcomes the report of Peacebuilding Commission. We commend the Peacebuilding Commission for another productive year in advancing nationally owned peacebuilding priorities and strengthening coherence across the United Nations systems. The Commission has continued to demonstrate its value as a platform for dialogue, partnership, and sustained political accompaniment for countries emerging from conflict. The adoption of the 2015 Peacebuilding Architecture Review marked an important milestone in strengthening the United Nations peacebuilding architecture. Our priority now must be implementation. The challenge before us is no longer one of vision, but one of translating our commitments into tangible results for countries and communities on the ground. Mr. President, Somalia's experience has reaffirmed a simple, but fundamental principle: sustainable peace cannot be imported or imposed. It must be nationally owned, nationally led, and nationally sustained. Peacebuilding efforts are most effective when they strengthen national institutions, respond to local priorities, and empower communities to become active partners in building resilient and inclusive societies. Peacebuilding should not be viewed as an activity that begins after conflict ends. It is a continuous process that starts with prevention, continues through conflict management, and remains essential during recovery and development. If we are serious about sustaining peace, we must shift from reacting to crisis towards investing in prevention. Prevention remains the most effective and least costly investment that international community can make. Yet preventive actions continue to receive neither the political attention nor the financial resources it deserves. We therefore call for greater political commitment and sustained investment in nationally owned prevention strategies before crises escalate. Financing remains equally critical. Peacebuilding requires predictable, flexible, and sustained resources that extend beyond short-term project cycles. We therefore reiterate our support for adequate and sustainable financing for peacebuilding, including through continued support for peacebuilding fund, stronger partnerships with international financial institutions, and development actors. Mr. President, as the United Nations undertake the review of all forms of peace operations mandated by the Pact of the Future, we have a timely opportunity to strengthen the link between prevention, peacebuilding, peacekeeping, and sustainable development. Peacebuilding should not be regarded as an exit strategy. Rather, it should be integrated from the outset of United Nations engagement and remain central throughout the conflict cycle. In conclusion, sustaining peace requires long-term commitment. Inclusive partnership, and confidence in national leadership. Peace anchored in strong institutions, justice, opportunity, and human dignity provides the strongest foundation for sustainable development. Somalia remains committed to working with all Member States, the Peacebuilding Commission, and the United Nations systems to advance nationally owned peacebuilding, and sustaining peace. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Somalia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

Mr. President, we are grateful to the former Acting Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission, the Permanent Representative of Germany, and the Permanent Representative of Morocco for their comprehensive briefings and the efforts and leadership of the Commission. Just 20 years ago, the work of the PPC began, and over that time, the Commission has gained significant institutional experience and it has become an integral component of the United Nations family. The key event last year was the conduct of the 5th Review of the Peacebuilding Architecture structure, which culminated with the unanimous adoption of General Assembly and Security Council partner resolutions reaffirming the unique role of the Commission as a platform where our participants in peacebuilding processes can pool efforts to avoid duplication and to, as effectively as possible and efficiently, distribute— share resources. One of the results of the review was the reaffirmation of the critical principle of consensus as the basis for the working methods of the BBC, when the work of all parties genuinely is significant and the views of all are taken into account, that the Commission becomes a genuine engine for advancing the collective interests of the international community. President, considering the work that was done by the PBC, we wish to share the following observations and recommendations. In our opinion, the view— the meetings of the Commission on country-specific or regional-specific questions have demonstrated the greatest effectiveness. The PBC Permanent Representative Meeting in 2025 on cross-border disputes in Central Asia provided an opportunity for participants to hear firsthand accounts from various countries on peaceful settlement of corresponding matters. Given the topicality of the problem, for most countries in the world it's difficult to overestimate the practical significance of these meetings. We would note that during the country-specific meetings there was a discussion of thematic meetings, and this was appropriate— for example, the role of women and youth. And in this event, discussions become substantive in nature and they're geared towards achievement of results. At the same time, thematic discussions, generally speaking, unfortunately are not always productive and frequently are diluted to reiterance of political statements and empty declarations. Therefore, we note that at the heart of peacebuilding efforts need to be priorities of national authorities, as is reaffirmed in the review of the peacebuilding architecture, and the interests and concerns of country recipients of peacebuilding assistance, even if they diverge from the interests of donors or trendy way of trendy concepts at the United Nations is something that the PBC should strictly adhere to in its work. This logic applies also to the drafting of written recommendations of the Commission to the Security Council. Insofar as this has significant experience in matters under its purview, the PBC would be well advised to convey to the Council aspirations of states on its agenda and to provide substantiated recommendations. That go beyond the framework of politically correct theses, which are general in nature. This would significantly enhance the results from the work of the Commission, which we are currently talking about. Mr. President, during the first Peacebuilding Week, a multitude of thematic events was held dedicated to various aspects of this activity. We wish to note that in specialized discussions frequently there is an emphasis on specific areas of peace-sustaining efforts and conflict prevention, there's a need to always bear in mind that the main responsibility for conflict prevention in countries is borne by member states themselves, and crisis prevention needs to be conducted under the stewardship and with the direct participation of countries themselves. At the same time, given the acute scarcity of financing for international assistance, there needs to be priority on post-conflict countries to shield them from the resumption of hostilities. To conclude, we would like to wish the Permanent Representative of Morocco, Ammar Hamal, I wish you every success in leading the PBC. We intend to continue to constructively work at the PBC. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Philippines.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Philippines thanks the Secretary-General for the comprehensive reports on the activities of the Peacebuilding Commission and the Peacebuilding Fund. The reports show how the peacebuilding architecture of the United Nations has evolved over the past 2 decades. The Commission convenes relevant stakeholders and provides a valuable platform for Member States to discuss and promote peacebuilding strategies, including through the Peacebuilding Fund and assistance of the Peacebuilding Support Office. The convening and advisory role of the Commission remains an important aspect of its work. The Philippines is proud to be a contributor to the Peacebuilding Fund. The Philippines has also benefited from support of the Fund to strengthen the gains of the peace process in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, or BARMM. Peacebuilding Fund projects complemented national peacebuilding efforts and enhanced national capacities. We wish to emphasize 3 points at today's debate. First, national ownership must remain the bedrock of peacebuilding endeavors. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao demonstrates the power of inclusive, nationally-led processes. We therefore encourage the PBC to continue featuring national and regional success stories for cross-regional learning and peer support. Second, the report illustrates the disparity between global demand for peace investments and available resources. The Philippines calls on partners to diversify funding streams and scale up investments, particularly for youth and women-led local peace initiatives. The Philippines also encourages deepening partnerships with multilateral development banks, international financial institutions, and regional organizations, with a view to expanding the funding base and the scope of projects. Third, Third, the peacebuilding architecture must adapt to non-traditional security threats. In this regard, the Philippines notes the PBF's investments in climate-resilient peacebuilding. Climate change is a risk multiplier, exacerbating resource scarcity and displacing communities. Mr. President, Excellencies, in conclusion, the PBC's unique advisory role to both the General Assembly and the Security Council must be more fully leveraged to foster greater coherence across the UN system. In this spirit, the Philippines will continue working actively with Member States and partners to further strengthen the UN's peacebuilding architecture. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Philippines. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Estonia.

Mr. President, Estonia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the EU and would like to add the following. The first-ever UN Peacebuilding Week was a valuable opportunity. To reflect on 2 decades of UN peacebuilding and renew our collective commitment to sustaining peace. The 20th anniversary of the Peacebuilding Commission and the Secretary-General's Peacebuilding Fund reminds us of the vital role peacebuilding plays in preventing conflict, strengthening resilience, and supporting lasting peace. At the same time, peacebuilding is confronted with increasingly complex and interconnected challenges. In our view, the ability to adapt, innovate, and respond effectively to this evolving reality is what ultimately determines success. As we look ahead, prevention must remain at the heart of our efforts. Investing in conflict prevention, early warning, mediation, and dialogue is the most effective and cost-efficient way to sustain peace. Peacebuilding efforts must be nationally owned, inclusive, and supported by strong partnerships across the UN system, regional organizations, international financial institutions, civil society, and the private sector. At a time of growing needs and shrinking resources, sustained and predictable financing for peacebuilding remains essential. Estonia has been doing its part. We have been a long-term annual contributor to the Peacebuilding Fund and a consistent donor to the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs. Mr. President, the timely and effective implementation of the Peacebuilding Architecture Review is of paramount importance. Estonia has actively supported and contributed to the PBAR process. Together, PBAR and the Peace Operations Review provide an important opportunity to rethink the UN's approach to conflict prevention and resolution. This is particularly important in the current political and fiscal environment, including in the context of the UN aid reform process. This work is all the more urgent at a time when the international peace and security architecture is under strain. We underscored the unique responsibilities of the UN Security Council, whose role remains central and indispensable. Yet the Security Council is currently unable to act effectively A permanent member of the Council, the Russian Federation, who has been entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining global peace and security, has instead become a threat to it by waging a colonial war of aggression against Ukraine. For the 4th consecutive year, the Russian Federation has been blacklisted in the Children and Armed Conflict Report, and now also in the Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Report. We therefore call on the Russian Federation to call for the suspension of Russia's participation in UN peacekeeping operations immediately. Finally, we would like to underscore that UN peace operations with clear mandates and predictable funding remain among the most effective multilateral tools for preventing and mitigating armed conflict, sustaining peace, and responding to threats to international peace and security. Therefore, Estonia has been committed to the peacekeeping efforts of the UN, including through troop contributions to UN peacekeeping operations in the Middle East.

I thank you.

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

President, China commends Germany for its work as chair of the PBC last year, supports Morocco in fulfilling its duties as chair of the PBC this year, and thanks the Secretary-General for his reports on the Commission's annual work and on the PBF. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the UN peacebuilding architecture. Over the 2 decades, the peacebuilding architecture has played a vital role in coordinating international efforts in supporting post-conflict countries and restoring peace and development. At present, the international security landscape is complex and fraught with growing geopolitical tensions and multiple armed conflicts. The year 2025 saw a record number of armed conflicts since the end of World War II, peacebuilding remains an arduous task. In this context, we should seize the opportunity of the adoption of the 2025 Peacebuilding Architecture Review Resolution to enable more targeted, pragmatic, and efficient UN peacebuilding to better serve the countries concerned and their people. I will make 4 points. First, it's imperative to observe the fundamental principle of national ownership. The countries concerned bear the primary responsibility for their own peace and development. National sovereignty and ownership must be respected in all international peacebuilding efforts. The PBC should ensure full communication with the countries concerned, make recommendations based on their priority development goals and areas, and support them in pursuing a development path suited to their national conditions. Second, we must uphold the core concept of promoting peace through development. Many conflicts Most conflicts find their root causes in poverty, injustice, and governance failure. Without development, there can be no lasting peace. In peacebuilding, we should put development first and prioritize resource allocation to livelihood-related areas such as poverty reduction, education, employment, healthcare, and public service, so that people can appreciate the value of peace and see hope for their future. This will help the countries concerned lay a solid economic and social foundation for lasting peace and stability. Third, the PBC needs to keep improving its mechanisms and working methods. The Commission should continue to work by consensus, fully play its bridging, convening, and advisory roles, and help foster synergy across the UN system, international organizations, and multilateral development institutions by leveraging their respective strengths. The Peacebuilding Week features a rich array of activities from which lessons can be learned to improve working methods and shape more targeted and effective delivery while ensuring continuity and predictability in the work. Efforts are needed to build a diverse and efficient funding system. The PBF continues to support peacebuilding efforts in different countries. The funded projects are progressing well overall. Last year, the GA-approved assessed contribution mechanism was launched to shore up the Fund. We look forward to a separate report by the Secretariat to the GA on the use of the assessed funds. Voluntary contributions remain the main source of the PBF. We call on countries in a position to do so to step up their contributions. We also support broadening peacebuilding financing channels by working closely with IFIs and regional development banks to leverage their comparative advantages in terms of funding, technology, and experience, and align them with the peacebuilding needs of the countries concerned. More effective and efficient use of the funds, optimized resource allocation, and strengthened oversight and evaluation are needed to ensure that limited resources are used efficiently to benefit the people. President. China has always been a staunch supporter of and an active contributor to U.N. peacebuilding, and consistently assisted post-conflict countries in reconstruction and recovery, as well as development. Together with the international community, China stands ready to continue advancing the implementation of the outcomes of the Peacebuilding Architecture Review and to contribute its wisdom and efforts to the peacebuilding cause. I thank you, President.

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste.

Mr. President, Excellencies. Timor-Leste thanks the Peacebuilding Commission for its report and the Secretary-General for the candid assessment of the challenges and opportunities facing the Peacebuilding Fund as we mark the 20th anniversary of the United Nations peacebuilding architecture. Together, these reports demonstrate that sustaining peace depends on sustained investment in prevention, nationally owned institutions, effective partnership, and adequate resources. The Secretary-General's central message underscores that the international community faces a widening gap between the scale of global fragility and the resources we commit to prevention. This gap is not theoretical. It is already shaping the lives of millions. Moreover, unless we act decisively, it will continue to widen. Timor-Leste welcomes the continued efforts of the Peacebuilding Commission to strengthen its advisory convening and bridging roles, while promoting nationally owned prevention strategies, inclusive governance, and stronger partnership within and beyond the United Nations system. We also commend the Commission's growing emphasis on social cohesion, South-South and triangular cooperation, and collaboration within the regional organization and international financial institutions. These priorities reflect the integrated approach required to build and sustain peace. Our own national experience demonstrates that when communities lead, when institutions are strengthened, and when young people and women shape institutional— national priorities, peace is not only possible but endures. However, the Secretary-General's warning on financing must be taken seriously. Voluntary contributions continue to decline even as global demand rises. This mismatch is unattainable. Prevention cannot be delivered on goodwill alone. The introduction of assessed contributions marks an important milestone in strengthening the Fund's financial base, and Tim restorates the leadership shown by Member States in making this possible. However, assessed contributions are only the foundation. They must be complemented not replace sustained, predictable, and adequate voluntary financing from all partners. If we expect the Peacebuilding Fund to deliver catalytic impact, then we must provide catalytic resources. As we prepare for the next strategic cycle, Timor-Leste encourages continued effort to ensure that the Fund's direction is fully aligned with the Pact for the Future and grounded in the realities faced by countries on the front lines of fragility. We encourage deeper partnership with regional organizations and international financial institutions, stronger support for cross-border initiatives, and continued investment in nationally owned prevention and resilient institutions and national capacities. These are the foundations of durable peace, and they must be strengthened, not diluted, in the years ahead. As we implement the outcome of the 2025 Peacebuilding Architecture Review, We must continue to strengthen the complementary roles and synergies between Peacebuilding Commission and Peacebuilding Fund. Together, they help advance nationally on prevention and peacebuilding efforts while reinforcing the United Nations' capacity to sustain peace. Team Lester reaffirms its full support for the Peacebuilding Fund and for Secretary-General's call to match ambition with resources. We stand ready to work with all Member States to ensure that Peacebuilding Commission and Peacebuilding Fund remain effective, complementary, and forward-looking pillars of United Nations peacebuilding architecture, capable of delivering stability, resilience, and hope that our communities deserve. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste. Distinguished colleagues, We have heard the last speaker in the debate on these items. Now, may I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda items 28, 62, and 111? It is so decided. Distinguished colleagues, the Assembly will resume its consideration of Agenda Item 38, entitled Necessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial, and Financial Embargo Imposed by the United States of America Against Cuba, to hear the remaining speakers in the debate. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the State of Palestine.

Mr. President, The State of Palestine aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the G77 and China, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. And I'm— I am honored to participate in this important debate under Agenda Item 38 on behalf of the State of Palestine. The State of Palestine reaffirms its full and principled solidarity with the Republic of Cuba and its people against the prolonged economic, commercial, and financial embargo that continues to be imposed by the United States, and we join the overwhelming majority of nations in calling for an immediate lifting of this unjust embargo, which has for more than 6 decades inflicted profound losses and immense challenges and hardships on the Cuban people. As the State of Palestine continues to endure the devastating socioeconomic, humanitarian, developmental, political, security, and environmental impacts of the 59 years of the illegal Israeli occupation, compounded by the relentless Israeli aggression against our people, including a decade decades-long blockade of Gaza, and severe economic, financial movement— and movement restrictions across occupied Palestine, all in grave breach of international law, we reiterate our firm opposition to the punitive embargo and unilateral coercive measures imposed on Cuba. Such measures contravene the principles of multilateralism as they erode the spirit of international cooperation embodied by the United Nations and undermine the rules and norms of international law. The State of Palestine therefore regrets the continued imposition of the embargo against Cuba as well as any threats of military aggression against the country, and we join the international community in calling for the urgent mobilization and acceleration of political dialogue to end this embargo and to allow for unimpeded Cuban trade and normal economic activity, which are indispensable to the attainment of sustainable development, prosperity, and stability in Cuba, particularly at a time of growing global instability and economic vulnerability. We urge serious efforts to implement the relevant General Assembly resolutions adopted year after year for over 3 decades calling for an end to the embargo imposed on Cuba in accordance with international law and with full respect to the sovereign— for the sovereignty and independence of states and the freedom of commerce and navigation. The State of Palestine reaffirms once again its unequivocal support for all diplomatic efforts aimed at ending this embargo, which continues to undermine the rights of the Cuban people, including their rights to self-determination and development.

I thank you.

Thank you.

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

Mr. President, all protocol courtesies observed, there is no doubt that the continued existence of the embargo, in contravention of the overwhelming opinion repeatedly expressed by the General Assembly, undermines multilateralism and the credibility of the United Nations itself. Year after year, the General Assembly has rejected the imposition of laws and regulations with extraterritorial effects as well as other forms of coercive economic measures that adversely affect the progress and prosperity of peoples around the world. The Assembly has also called upon all states to refrain from promulgating and applying, and to repeal or invalidate laws and measures with extraterritorial effects that affect the sovereignty of other states in conformity with their obligations under the Charter of the United Nations and international law. As the world's largest democracy, India regards multilateralism as an article of faith. We therefore join others in calling for an end to embargoes of this nature, which constrain full enjoyment of economic and social development by the populations of affected countries, particularly women and children. Such measures also impede the realization of human rights, including the rights to development, food, education, and healthcare. Successive reports of the Secretary-General have highlighted the adverse impact of embargo on developmental efforts of the Cuban people. Including progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. In adopting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in 2015, world leaders urged all states to refrain from unilateral economic, financial, or trade measures that are not in accordance with international law and the Charter of the United Nations. Despite these constraints, Cuba has continued to make important contributions in several sectors. Its expertise and efforts in healthcare enabled it to respond effectively to the COVID-19 pandemic, not only domestically but also internationally, through the deployment of healthcare professionals to countries in need. This deserves recognition. People-to-people contacts hold immense potential for fostering greater understanding among nations. The people of Cuba have much to contribute to the international community. To enable this, the international community should intensify efforts to promote an environment free from sanctions and embargoes. India hopes that the embargo will be lifted at the earliest. I thank you, Mr. President.

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

Mr.

President, Distinguished colleagues, the delegation of Belarus joins the statement by Eritrea on behalf of the Group of Friends in defense of the Charter of the United Nations and the statement delivered by the delegation of Uganda on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. International position is well known, and this position remains unchanged. The imposition of unilateral coercive measures against sovereign states is unacceptable. This constitutes a direct breach of the norms of international law and the fundamental principles thereof. And which undermines the system of multilateralism and the very bedrock of civilized relations amongst peoples. An egregious example of this nefarious practice include— is the persistent trade, financial, economic blockade against Cuba. The purpose of the blockade is to compel a sovereign state, a United Nations member state whose people independently achieved freedom and independence, to change their domestic political system, to abandon the fundamental principles of their existence. their ideology, and ultimately to sacrifice their very freedom. Does this not constitute a direct attempt at enslavement? We categorically repudiate this practice, and we view it as unacceptable in international relations. Furthermore, the persistent blockade against Cuba runs counter not just to legal rules, but this flies in the very face of the principles of humanity and morality. The figures which repeatedly have been presented by the Cuban side regarding the increase in the numbers of instances of child mortality, the number of gravely ill people stripped of access to medical assistance speak volumes, and they speak louder than any, any calls for defense of human rights. We believe that rhetoric has no effect when innocent children are dying, and achievements ring hollow when they are achieved at the expense of defenseless people. The United Nations, through member states and through main bodies, and Secretary-General has an obligation to give fundamental, principled assessments of such blatant hostile acts insofar as this runs counter to the principles and purposes of the United Nations. This way, the organization is— the way the organization responds to ongoing attempts to destroy a sovereign state is a clear reflection of the effectiveness and viability of the organization. And Belarus has always and will continue to uphold the right of every state to independently determine its own model for development. Economic and political coercion as a method of exerting pressure on a sovereign state has nothing to do with a modern-day notion for civilized— of civilized international relations. We call for full, unconditional, irrevocable lifting of economic financial blockade, and for the U.S. to lift the blockade in the spirit of mutual respect and peaceful dispute resolution. Thank you for your attention.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Belarus. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Israel.

Thank you, Mr. President. Following our vote, Israel reaffirms its support for the United States and its longstanding commitment to promote democracy, human rights, and accountability in Cuba. Any meaningful discussion on the situation of the Cuban people must reflect the full reality and acknowledge the various factors that have shaped their circumstances. For decades, the Cuban people have faced the consequences of failed economic policies, systemic challenges, corruption, and the continued restriction of fundamental freedoms. These realities have limited economic opportunity, hindered prosperity, and contributed to the difficulties experienced by the Cuban people today. The challenges facing Cuba are not solely economic; they are also political. The Cuban regime has for decades restricted political pluralism, limited freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and suppressed the voices calling for greater openness and reform. Respect for fundamental rights and freedoms must remain at the center of any discussion about Cuba's future. The international community should approach this issue with a comprehensive perspective. Addressing the challenges facing the Cuban people requires recognizing the role of domestic policies and decisions that have affected their ability to fully exercise their rights and reach their potential. The international community, community should also remain mindful of Cuba's conduct beyond its borders. The Cuban regime has maintained close relationships with authoritarian governments and actors that challenge democratic values and international stability. More recently, reports regarding the recruitment of Cuban nationals to support Russia's war against Ukraine have raised serious concerns. Let us be clear: Israel's position is directed at the policies and actions of the Cuban regime, not at the Cuban people. The people of Cuba deserve freedom, dignity, economic opportunity, and the ability to shape their own future. Israel remains hopeful that Cuba will one day embrace democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law. When that day comes, Israel will be ready to deepen cooperation with a democratic Cuba and to support the Cuban people as they build a freer, more prosperous future. I thank you.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Israel. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Lesotho.

Mr. President, the Kingdom of Lesotho aligns its statement with those delivered by Uruguay on behalf of G77 and China, Uganda on behalf of Non-Alignment Movement, and Mali on behalf of Africa Group. The Kingdom of Lesotho takes this opportunity to renew its commitment to the principle of the Charter of the United Nations, particularly the respect of sovereign equality of states, the peaceful settlement of dispute, and the promotion and protection of human rights. As we meet here today, Lesotho notes with concern the humanitarian challenge resulting from the economic, financial, and trade embargo on Cuba, including the reported impacts on access to healthcare, education, essential services, water and sanitation, food security, energy supplies, and well-being of vulnerable populations. The welfare and dignity of the people remain— must remain at the center of our collective efforts. We believe that sustainable solutions to international disputes are best achieved through constructive dialogue, mutual respect, adherence to international law, and meaningful multilateral engagement. In this regard, Lesotho reiterates its support for a rule-based international order grounded in the purpose and the principle of the Charter. Mr. President, Lesotho calls for the lifting of this economic, financial, and trade embargo on Cuba in order to afford the Cuban people their most desired development. At a time of growing global tension, it is imperative that all member states refrain from actions that may escalate tension and intend to work hard towards fostering peace stability, development, and realization of human rights for all. In the spirit of multilateralism, Lesotho encourages continued engagement through diplomatic channels and support efforts aimed at promoting understanding, cooperation, and mutually beneficial solutions consistent with international law and the objective of the United Nations. I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Lesotho. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh.

Mr. President, we appreciate the convening of this debate. And align ourselves with the statements delivered by the G77 and China, NAM, and the OIC. Bangladesh reiterates its principal position against the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed on Cuba. Such unilateral coercive measures are inconsistent with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, including respect for international law, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. For more than 6 decades, this embargo has adversely affected lives and livelihoods of the Cuban people, including their access to essential goods and services. We underscore that access to food, medicine, energy, technology, and development finance must never be obstructed. We are particularly concerned that these measures impede the realization of the right to development, with the general population bearing the greatest burden. Bangladesh recognizes Cuba's longstanding contribution to South-South cooperation, including in the health sector, and expresses its solidarity with the Cuban people during this difficult time. To conclude, Mr. President, we reiterate our call for the lifting of this embargo. Differences and disputes must always be resolved through dialogue, diplomacy, and other peaceful means. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Bangladesh. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia.

Thank you, President. The humanitarian situation in Cuba is affecting access to food, clean water, healthcare, and other essential services. Australia consistently supports open trade and investment, and Australia continues to support an end of the embargo against Cuba. Australia reiterates that it does not endorse the policies of Cuba. We have seen widespread reports of Cuba's failure to comply with the international human rights standards, including the ongoing restrictions on the freedom of expression and association affecting everyday Cubans. We again urge the Cuban government to respect the rights of all its population and call for the release of all political prisoners and those who are arbitrarily detained. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Australia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guatemala.

Señor Presidente. Mr. President, my delegation aligns itself with the statements on behalf of the Group of 77 and China and NAM. The Republic of Guatemala reaffirms its historic position in favor of ending the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed against the Republic of Cuba. Since 1997, my country has supported the resolutions that the General Assembly adopts on this question in accordance with the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and international law. As a founding state of the United Nations and committed to the peaceful settlement of disputes disputes, Guatemala promotes dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect among states as fundamental bases for peace, development, and the well-being of peoples. When addressing this subject, my delegation would like to highlight the human dimension of it. Prolonged restrictions affecting economic and commercial exchanges can have significant repercussions on the daily life of the population. Particularly the most vulnerable groups. Difficulties in accessing essential goods, medicines, technologies, and inputs for productive activities can impact fundamental areas such as health, food security, education, and general well-being. These circumstances tend to have the greatest impact on children, women, older persons, and persons with disabilities, hindering efforts aimed at achieving sustainable and inclusive development. Guatemala considers that trade, international cooperation, and exchanges among peoples are valuable tools for fostering economic growth, strengthening national capacities, and expanding development opportunities. In that context, Guatemala reaffirms its commitment to dialogue, cooperation, multilateralism, and respect for international law, with the conviction that they constitute the best way to promote development and the well-being of peoples in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Thank you, Representative of Guatemala. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of North Macedonia.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Mr. President, my country voted against the proposal to convene an additional plenary debate on this agenda item. In doing so, my delegation wishes to state clearly that our position does not stem from a lack of empathy and should not be interpreted as a lack of solidarity with the people of Cuba. At the same time, we believe it is important to acknowledge the broader context. The prolonged hardships faced by the Cuban people cannot be viewed in isolation from decades of discredited communist economic policies that have failed to deliver prosperity, pervasive systemic corruption, and the violent repression of the Cuban people through persistent restrictions on fundamental freedoms, political pluralism, and human rights. We are further concerned by Cuba's policies and actions that undermine democratic values and international peace and security, including the longstanding support for authoritarian regimes its historical backing of communist insurgencies and actors associated with international terrorism, as well as credible reports of Cuban nationals providing assistance to Russia's military aggression against Ukraine. However, we must emphasize that the General Assembly already concluded a comprehensive and substantive debate on this agenda item during the main part of the 80th session in October 2025. Reopening the same debate only a few months later runs counter to our collective commitment under the UN 80 Initiative to streamline the work of the General Assembly, avoid unnecessary duplication, and ensure the efficient use of its time and resources.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of North Macedonia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belize.

Thank you, Mr. President. Belize supported the resumption of this debate because the dire circumstances that confront the Cuban people warrant it. Belizeans are deeply concerned for the ongoing shocks that Cuba and her people are made to endure— rolling blackouts, the postponement of tens of thousands of scheduled surgeries, disruptions to child immunization campaigns, and a broader deterioration in socioeconomic conditions place the well-being of some 10 million Cubans at serious risk. These cascading effects stem in significant part from the acute fuel shortages that began early this year when measures restricting oil shipments Cuba compounded damage already inflicted by recent climate events, including Hurricane Melissa last October. This crisis sits atop the longstanding economic, commercial, and financial embargo that has constrained Cuba's access to financing, technology, and international markets for over 6 decades, and which this Assembly's annual resolution has condemned as inconsistent with international law. Even more concerning, both the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Havana and the Secretary-General have confirmed that Cuba's humanitarian situation could deteriorate further and could potentially collapse absent urgent international support and unimpeded access to fuel and essential goods. We welcome the efforts of the UN Country Team in Cuba and of member states and regional partners who have extended humanitarian assistance, including through bilateral shipments of fuel, food, and medical supplies. These efforts merit our continued support. We urge that all humanitarian channels remain open, depoliticized and adequately resourced. We note with concern the funding gap identified in the UN's own cooperation framework for Cuba, and we urge member states to help close this gap without delay. We further underscore the importance of ensuring that humanitarian exemptions long recognized under international frameworks are honored in practice and not merely in principle, so that food, medicine and medical equipment reach the Cuban people without obstruction, unduly, and without fear of secondary sanction. This Assembly, as a principal deliberative organ of the United Nations, has the standing and the responsibility established under the Charter to serve as a platform for multilateral dialogue and engagement. We call on all parties to respect international law, to pursue dialogue with urgency and in good faith, and to act on the basis of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity consistent with Article 2 of the Charter. Belize will continue to stand, as it has for decades, in solidarity with Cuba, its people, and the right to self-determination. We call on the international community to act with urgency, with compassion, and with full respect for international law. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Belize. Distinguished colleagues, we have heard the last speaker on the debate on this item. I want to inform the delegations that the exercise of the right to reply has been requested. As announced in the President's letter dated 6 January and 20 May 2026, it had been proposed that time limits for statements in exercise of the right to reply under this item will be limited to 5 minutes for the first intervention and to 3 minutes for the second intervention. The delegation of Cuba has informed the President of its objection to this proposal. Accordingly, the proposed speaking time will not— speaking time will not be applied to the exercise of the right of reply under this item. May I nonetheless remind the delegations that statements in the exercise of the right of reply are limited to 10 minutes for the first intervention and to 5 minutes for the second intervention, and should be made by delegations from their seats. I call on the representative of Israel.

Thank you, Mr. President. Israel is responding to the Palestinian delegation. We provide our assistance to the populations that need it. Israel remains committed to providing assistance and to meet humanitarian needs. Israel is facilitating the entrance of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, but Hamas is not shouldering its responsibilities And is not working for the benefit of the Palestinian people.

Hamas is a terrorist organization that is preventing the Palestinian people from their rights and jeopardizing their lives. The international community should distinguish between the Palestinian people that requires help and between a terrorist organization using the suffering of the people to achieve achieve its goals. The true attention or concern for the Palestinian people is to reject the terrorism of Hamas and to hold them accountable and to guarantee that assistance reaches civilians and not to assist terrorism.

I call on the representative of Cuba.

Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, we are forced to exercise our right of reply in the face of the unfounded and unacceptable accusations made by the delegation of Israel against my country. On a matter of basic decorum, we will avoid referring to other statements that follow patterns dictated from Washington, like Israel and 2 other delegations that I read out in this room. It is shameful that the representative of Israel, whose government is facing an unprecedented rejection by the international community for genocide, grave violations of international law and international humanitarian law that it is committing against the Palestinian people, attempts to criticize Cuba. Instead of giving lessons, the genocidal state of Israel should first and foremost answer for the devastation, the suffering, and the death that its actions have brought about in Palestine and other Arab territories. While the world is witnessing with horror the systematic destruction of cities, hospitals, schools, and displaced persons camps, the delegation of Israel, without any morality, is repeating a pattern written in Washington to justify the economic suffocation of my country. The cynicism of this seems to know no limits. We will never accept those justifying to— attempting to justify the massacre of the Palestinian people, simultaneously trying to legitimize a policy of collective punishment against the Cuban people. Our voice will not be silenced by those who attempt to replace international law with force, impunity, and double standards. Thank you very much.

I call on the representative of Israel for a second intervention.

Thank you, Mr. President. We take the floor in response to the statement made by the representative of Cuba. It is deeply ironic to hear accusations against Israel from a regime that has spent decades denying its own citizens the most basic democratic freedoms, a government that suppressed political opposition, restrict freedom of expression, and silence independent voices, punish and credibly lecture others on human rights and democracy. Unlike this regime, Israel is a vibrant democracy where citizens have the right to openly debate, criticize their government, express their political views, organize, and peacefully demonstrate, including against government policies. The Cuban regime's attempt to shift attention away from its own record of repressions do not change the reality faced by the Cuban people. Israel's criticism is not directed at the Cuban people. It is directed at the regime that has denied them the freedoms, the opportunities, and dignity they deserve for decades. I thank you.

Distinguished colleagues, The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of Agenda Item 38. As announced in the Journal of the United Nations, the Assembly will resume the 92nd Plenary Meeting and the High-Level Meeting on HIV/AIDS immediately after the adjournment of this meeting to continue the debate on Agenda Item 10 in the High-Level Meeting. meeting on HIV/AIDS. The meeting is adjourned.

Thank you.