General Assembly: 38th plenary meeting, 80th session

Good morning. The 38th plenary meeting of the General Assembly is called to order. The Assembly will consider in a joint debate agenda item 9, entitled "Report of the Economic and Social Council", and agenda item 13, entitled "Integrated and coordinated implementation of and follow-up to the outcomes of the major United Nations conferences and summits in the economic, social and related fields". And in this regard, we'll resume its consideration of agenda item 13. In connection with agenda item 9, I would like to recall that pursuant to resolution 58/316 of 1 July 2004, the Assembly, on the recommendation of the General Committee, decided at its second plenary meeting on 12 September 2025 to consider the item in its entirety in plenary. on the understanding that the administrative, programme and budgetary aspects should be dealt with by the Fifth Committee. At the same meeting, the Assembly took note of the clarification that, in implementing resolution 58/316 to consider item 9 in its entirety in plenary, The relevant parts of chapter one of the report of the Economic and Social Council that are under agenda items already allocated to the main committees will be considered by the committee concerned for final action by the Assembly. In connection with agenda item 13, members will recall that pursuant to resolution 57/270B of June 23, 2003, The Assembly decided to consider under the item the chapters of the annual report of the Economic and Social Council relevant to the integrated and coordinated implementation of and follow-up to the outcomes of the major United Nations conferences and summits, including through the participation in its discussions of the President of the Council. The documentation under these items are listed in the Journal of the United Nations. I will now make a statement as the President of the General Assembly. Your Excellency, Bob Rae, Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations and former President of ECOSOC, Excellencies, thank you for joining this morning's briefing on the report of the Economic and Social Council. Let me begin by commending Ambassador Rae's and his team for their highly effective stewardship of ECOSOC throughout the presidency. Their leadership has helped strengthen the Council's vital role as a bridge between global vision and local results. Last week, at the Second World Social Summit in Doha, we underlined the reality that social development and equality are not a bonus, not a charity, They are essential prerequisites to stability and prosperity. They are also very much in each of their own self-interest, of our own self-interest, as peace and security and social development go hand in hand. Time and again, we see the same chain reaction. One crisis, deepen hunger and poverty, Hunger and poverty drive displacement, putting pressure on neighboring regions and fueling tensions and conflicts. And conflicts, in turn, destroy livelihoods and environment, feeding the cycle anew. All of this is only further exacerbated by the climate crisis, the biggest threat to security and sustainable development of our time. We saw this again recently when Hurricane Melissa barreled through the Caribbean, wiping out hard-won progress on the SDGs, destroying schools, hospitals, and whole infrastructures within hours. But whether the challenge is climate change or conflict, the lesson is the same. We cannot solve one problem in isolation from the others. We cannot address hunger without tackling health. We cannot end poverty without closing the education gap. We cannot advance climate action without ensuring decent work. This is why we need holistic strategies, like the SDGs and like the outcomes of Doha, as well as the upcoming outcomes of COP30 in Belm, that recognize that interdependence of our challenges means also interdependence of our responses. And that is why we need ECOSOC, the work of which reflects both the breadth and depth of UN's social and economic mission. Just last year, ECOSOC addressed the plight of children in Haiti, highlighting how hunger and poverty fuel gang violence. It examined forced displacement and refugee protection. underscoring the need for sustainable approaches that safeguard both refugees and host communities. It adopted a resolution on illicit trafficking of wild fauna and flora as part of a broader response to environmental crime. It advanced discussion on a common global tax regime. And Together with the General Assembly, it considered the devastating impact of small arms and light weapons on sustainable development, including their role in perpetuating gender-based violence. Beyond its high-level deliberations, ECOSOC serves as a platform for accountability and oversight across the UN development system. The voluntary national reviews presented each year at the High Level Political Forum demonstrate how global commitments are being translated into local action serving the people. Meanwhile, the quadrennial comprehensive policy review provides a system-wide stocktake, helping to steer reform across the UN development architecture and the Resident Coordinator Network. These functions have never been more important as we navigate the transition ushered in by the UN initiative, including the rationalization and consolidation of agencies. ECOSOC's role in ensuring coherence, efficiency and impact is indispensable. Excellencies, before handing over to Ambassador Ray, allow me to emphasize this point on reform. The UNAD initiative, while led by the Secretary-General, belongs to all of us. It is not confined to the Secretariat, but it extends to every organ of this House. We must all evolve and adapt with the times, not only to reduce costs, but to strengthen our collective effectiveness. I therefore urge Member States to reflect also on ECOSOC's unique contribution to this renewal, ensuring that economic and social development remain at the center of a reformed and re-energized multilateral system and re-energized United Nations. I thank you. I now give the floor to the President of the Economic and Social Council for the 2025 session, His Excellency Robert Ray, to introduce the report of the Council.

Thank you very much, Madam President. I must say that your comments and your introduction make it much easier for me to introduce the report of the Economic and Social Council for the 2025 session. The report, which is available to all of you, in addition to the document which we distributed right after the conclusion of our collective term as a bureau in the end of July, provides a very good overview of the Council's work, including a range of sustainable development issues. If I may, Madam President, I'd like to take some time to extend my thanks to our excellent Bureau during this session. The Ambassador from Costa Rica, who I know is here, the Ambassador from Nepal, the Ambassador from Poland, and the Ambassador from Equatorial Guinea. We became good friends during this year, which was a very active one. We spent some time listening and learning from each other, and it was a completely enjoyable experience. I'd also like to extend my personal thanks to the teams at the Secretariat, particularly at UN DESA and DJ ACM, for their invaluable support to me personally and to the Council at large and to the members of the Bureau. It also, I think, although The people who helped me prepare these notes did not mention it. It would only be appropriate if I thank my own team at the Mission of Canada, who are, some of them are sitting in the group there, and I want to just express my strong thanks to them for the great work that they did in allowing us to have such a fruitful and busy year. Just to go over a bit of the rhythm of the year, as you know, ECOSOC is elected in July, but our real sessions don't get really underway until the new year. This is the part of the calendar that is taken over by the General Assembly. So we're a little less busy in the fall, but we really get busy in January and takes us right through to the end of July. And I know Ambassador Thapa is going to be looking forward to the full blast of that schedule, which is a fascinating one. Let me also say that We had very important milestones, such as the Summit of the Future, the Fourth Financing for Development Conference. We marked 10 years of SDG implementation. We hosted the most strongly attended youth forum held to date. And we had the UN Science, Technology and Innovation, STI Week, was launched very successfully around the STI Forum this year. And I know that's something that's going to continue into future years. Just to give a few themes that were particularly important to us, the first one was this fundamental question that the UN's work on the economic and social issues of our time need to be much more closely linked in an integral way with the work of the international financial institutions in Washington. When the Bretton Woods were established, they were established at a parallel moment to the establishment of the UN. It was in 1944 and 1945 that these organizations were created. And we need to understand that we each have our jobs, but it does not make any sense for us to be doing our jobs completely separately from each other. We have to connect. And so we've made every effort to connect with the IFIs, with the World Bank, the IMF, and the regional development banks. And that continues to be a priority and has to be a priority for all of us. We had a very successful biennial summit this year, and that was, I think, an expression of the amount of work that really went into building these relationships. We also carried on the work that was started by my predecessor, the ambassador from Chile, looking at AI as a permanent feature of the work of the Economic and Social Council, that we build a discussion about AI and the implementation of AI throughout the UN system as a key part of what we do. And that also meant advancing the SDGs, having some very successful meetings that we've had with the VNRs that have been very positive, and that's all been very good. We've had a chance to do some other things that I think have been important. And you yourself mentioned these, Madam President, in your very helpful report. Forced displacement and refugee issues. We have more people being displaced from home than ever before. We have over 140 million people who are now displaced around the world, and this puts tremendous strain on the humanitarian system, but it also puts strain on issues like migration and education, just to mention two that are key. We continued our focus on Haiti. Canada has the honour of serving as the chair of the Advisory Committee on Haiti to ECOSOC, so we spent a great deal of time focusing on that question. We also dedicated ourselves to engaging civil society. There is a view in this hall that the United Nations is only an organization of nation states, and that civil society has no right to a place in the discussions that go on here. That was false in 1945. We would not have had the kind of charter that we have if it were not for the participation of civil society in the months leading up to San Francisco and in the San Francisco meeting. And ECOSOC is the key door in which civil society can enter and engage with us. And so it's exceptionally important that we continue to do that. I notice, Madam Chair, that next year in January, it will, we will be celebrating our 80th anniversary. And I think we all need to take this opportunity to think about how we can strengthen ECOSOC further. There will be an upcoming review of both ECOSOC and the High Level Political Forum, and we would like all member states to be actively engaged. If you will permit me, Madam President, and I'm not sure there's much you can do to stop me at this point. I'm going to conclude by just making a few personal comments. Some of you will know that I'm stepping down as the Ambassador of Canada in a few days, actually 48 hours, and this will be my last opportunity from the dais to say a few things that I would like to say very much in connection with the work of ECOSOC. The first one, Madam President, you yourself have said, and I want to say it again, This is the charter of the United Nations. I bring it to the meetings. Some of you will remember, have been around for a while. I often talk about the charter. There is a lie going around that says that the core issue for the UN is only peace and security, and that everything else is just extra and a frill, doesn't really belong in the work of the UN. That idea is completely false. It's false as a matter of fact, that is to say, economic and social issues have always been part and parcel of the work of the UN, completely integrated into the charter. ECOSOC is a charter body created in 1945. But it's also untrue for another reason that you, Madam President, have referred to. And that is, you cannot get to peace and security if you ignore the economic and social and human rights and rule of law issues which are critical for the work of the United Nations. Human rights are not a frill. Social development is not a frill. Economic growth is not a frill. Tackling poverty and inequality, these are not frills. And most important in our current era, climate change, while not mentioned in the charter, remains a critical problem for the future of the world and not just the future for the present. The second point I want to make is that UN80 is an opportunity, not just a crisis. In fact, you could argue every crisis is an opportunity. And without crises, sometimes we wouldn't necessarily take advantage of the need to embrace change. But in embracing change, we need to understand that part of the fundamental problem that we face is one that has been created by member states themselves in failing to pay their dues to support the United Nations. In Canada, we have a concept that we call deadbeat dads. What are deadbeat dads? Deadbeat dads are dads that don't pay support payments to their spouses and children. And we have to spend a lot of time as governments in Canada tracking people down and saying, do you know how much money you owe to your family? Do you know how badly off your family is because you're not paying your dues? You're not paying what the court has ordered you to pay. When we all signed up for the charter, we signed up to pay our dues. We signed up not only to say these are nice words, but to say we will be there in order to pay for the work of the United Nations and in order to pay to what are called assessed contributions. And we have to keep on paying for assessed contributions. We can't ignore the importance of assessed contributions. Thomas Paine wrote in The Crisis in 1776, a great American Democrat. He pointed out that in a time of crisis, The last thing we need are summer soldiers and sunshine patriots. The UN is in a moment of crisis, and we don't need summer soldiers and sunshine patriots. We need countries that are going to be all in. It doesn't mean you have to be all in to say everything's wonderful or that we agree with everything the UN is doing. It means in order to make change, we all have to be contributors to change. But we can't go on with a situation where we're not paying attention to the need for actual contributions and actual participation and not saying, the UN, as the Secretary-General has pointed out, and he's absolutely right, the UN is not a cafeteria. You don't walk in and say, "I like this, but I don't like that. I like this peacekeeping mission, but I don't like that peacekeeping mission. I'll pay for this, but I won't pay for that." These are core values of citizenship. We don't pay our taxes and say, "Well, I don't want to pay for this because I don't agree with it." No, you pay your taxes, you pay your dues, and we have to create a culture in this organization where we recognize that paying up and paying in and contributing are actually core to what we do. And that's what allows us to make the reforms that will really matter. Yes, are there too many resolutions that go on and on? Yes. Is there too much duplication in the UN? Yes. Is there even waste in the UN? Yes. But we can't create the framework to actually make the changes unless we're all in, unless we're contributing at every step of the way. The third point I want to make, Madam Chair, is simply to say this: the truth matters. Truth is real. Some things are true and some things are not true. Some things are information, some things are misinformation. Some things are facts, some things are lies. And I've tried to make a point from this podium and in other statements and ways of acting in this Assembly, to say we should not be afraid to tell things as they are and to be as clear as we can in expressing our differences respectfully, in a mode of civility, but at least having the courage to say these things have to be said. Climate change is real. Human rights are important. Getting away with things, impunity, is a bad thing. Corruption is a bad thing. Criminal gangs are bad things. Terrorism is a bad thing. There are good things and there are bad things, and that's why we need structures of law and structures of enforcement that help make things better. My last point is about courage. Courage is such an important virtue because it's the one virtue that makes the others possible. Courage can be difficult. It means stepping out. It means standing up. It means trying to persuade people who don't agree with you. But the thing we know about courage is that it is infectious. If some stand up, then others will stand up. And that's why it's so critical for us to truly appreciate the importance and the value of courage. Finally, Madam President, and just to say this by way of conclusion, I have so deeply appreciated the opportunity to work with everyone in this hall and to work with all members of the Secretariat and others. It's been a great honor for me to do this over the last five and a half years. I have deeply appreciated it. Now, my life has been one of exits and entrances, of coming and going. I've had difficulty keeping a job, and so it's one that's been the feature of my life. Upon leaving both the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and leaving the House of Commons in Canada, I ended those two speeches with a quotation from William Shakespeare. And so I I checked with my spouse if it was okay to do it again. She said, "Yeah, I think they'll let you get away with it one more time." So I'm gonna read to you Sonnet 25, which is one of my favorites. And this is what it says. "Let those who are in favor with their stars of public honor and proud titles boast, whilst I, whom fortune of such triumph bars, unlooked for joy in that I honor most. Great princes' favourites their fair leaves spread, But as the marigold at the sun's eye, And in themselves their pride lies buried, For at a frown they in their glory die. The painful warrior famous for fight, After a thousand victories once foiled, Is from the book of honour razed quite, And all the rest forgot. for which he toiled. Then happy I, that love and am beloved, where I may not remove nor be removed." Thank you all very much, and thank you, Madam President, for this opportunity.

I thank the President of the Economic and Social Council for the 2025 session. Dear Ambassador, dear Rob, as you finish your term, as we just learned in 48 hours, maybe now 47 hours here in New York, we wish you all the best for your future endeavors. Thank you for your work. And as the applause showed, your voice will be missed in this house. All the best. Continue with our speaking list, I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of the European Union on behalf of the EU and its Member States.

Madam President, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Esteemed Colleagues, I deliver this statement on behalf of the EU and its Member States. As we reflect today upon the report of the work of the Economic and Social Council for its 2025 session, We are provided with an opportunity to take stock of our collective achievements, to identify where we can do better, and to recognize the leadership that has guided us through this pivotal period in multilateral cooperation. We would therefore first like to thank Ambassador Bob Rae from Canada. As president of ECOSOC, he provided thoughtful, principled, and visionary leadership and ensured that the Council continues to serve as a platform for constructive dialogue and concrete solutions and as he ambition in his inaugural statement, a house for people. And as we just heard now, we are grateful for his inspiring speeches and words. His mandate witnessed and helped steer the start of the UN80 initiative, which calls for a more agile, responsive, and impactful United Nations across every organ of the system. ECOSOC stands at the heart of this transformation. For 80 years, it has played a central role in coordinating the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of development, fostering inclusive dialogue, and driving collective action. Despite our collective commitment, though, we are not on track to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. This reality calls for renewed determination and more efficient, focused mandates and structures. Looking ahead, next year's review of ECOSOC and the High-Level Political Forum, mandated for the 80th session of the General Assembly, will be a crucial opportunity to help us turn ECOSOC into a genuine accountability and solutions chamber, one that contributes to delivering stronger policy, coordinated action, and more impact on the ground. We must revitalize ECOSOC's role in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, strengthening partnerships, building more synergies with the General Assembly for more efficiency and less duplication, and ensuring that ECOSOC and the HLPF remain not only relevant but indispensable to the UN's future. Even though previous reviews have brought meaningful progress, we must spare no effort to further strengthen ECOSOC so that it can better fulfill its charter role. The UNAD initiative can and must assist us in achieving this goal, ensuring that ECOSOC continues to serve as the bridge between policy, action, and impact so that we can achieve the SDGs with a particular attention to the realities of least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states. Allow me as well some brief words on the report on the third industrial development decade for Africa. Aligned with this report, the European Union remains committed to advance clean energy transitions and foster inclusive industrial ecosystems. We therefore welcome the positive mention of EU-funded initiatives, such as the Cook Fund Programme on Sustainable Household Energy Transition and the Green Forward Industry Project, promoting circular economy practices in North Africa. To address insufficient financing for micro to medium-sized enterprises, The EU-Africa Global Gateway investment package also supports small and early-stage businesses, providing for both financial and technical assistance. Marking 25 years of EU-AU partnership, the EU remains Africa's leading partner in trade and investment. We therefore look forward to the European Union-African Union Summit in Angola taking place later this month to take this forward. Thank you, and thank you again to Ambassador Bobrэй.

I thank the distinguished representative of the European Union. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia, also on behalf of New Zealand.

Thank you very much indeed, President. On behalf of New Zealand and my own country, Australia, I'd like to extend our sincere congratulations and deep gratitude to Ambassador Bob Ray, Bob, for his exceptional leadership as President of the Economic and Social Council during 2025. ECOSOC serves as the United Nations' central forum for policy dialogue, coordination, and review of sustainable development, and plays a vital role in prosecuting the 2030 agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. Bob, under your stewardship, ECOSOC has become a more engaging and purposeful platform to better serve its original intent. You've championed reforms to make ECOSOC more responsive, inclusive, and effective, and to deepen engagement between member states, the United Nations system, international financial institutions, and other stakeholders. Your efforts have reinforced ECOSOC's role as a bridge between policy and implementation, and as a forum that responds to the realities of a world facing multiple crises. Bob, it's been an enormous privilege to work alongside you, and I note that it's not only the current Australian permanent representative in the room today, but my immediate predecessor, Mitch, and we are here to salute you and congratulate you, not only on an enormous contribution in ECOSOC, but also, I think, your contribution as a leader of this community, as a voice of integrity, a voice of courage, and a voice of discipline. We hear your message very clearly that the United Nations and our reference to the Charter, it is not a buffet. And we hear also very clearly your comments regarding the development agenda and the integral element of the human rights agenda to our overall objective of seeking to pursue peace and security. We thank you for your leadership. We thank you for your friendship. And it's with a degree of sadness that we say goodbye, but in the knowledge also that you will go on, no doubt, to contribute even more in the coming period. Thank you very much indeed.

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

Thank you, Madam President.

I would like to thank the ICOSAP President for the report.

And I would like to thank especially Ambassador Bob Brier of Canada for steering ECOSOC this past year.

And I congratulate Ambassador Lok Bahadur Thapa of Nepal on his election as president.

The Maldives will work with him for a successful session. I'll make three points on how ECOSOC must become a force for supporting countries to achieve the SDGs. First, Make coherence and coordination real.

Ensure integrated implementation at every level. Use the General Assembly's quadrennial comprehensive policy review, ECOSOC's operational activity segment, and related GA items as a roadmap.

For oversight, accountability, coordination, and transparency.

At the same time, we must deepen.

ECOSOC and G7 Energy, through regular meetings of Presidents and work with the Second Committee to strengthen policy coherence.

Second, drive financing and delivery.

Debt distress is the fault line, and SDGs stand over it.

Without fair relief and concessional finance, promises stay on paper. The severe commitment adopted this year.

Adds momentum for financing the SDG progress.

We must now implement it. Forthcoming eco-successions must ensure delivery on SBI and align Abbas, F54.

COP30 outcomes so that international commitments become tangible support for frontline countries, especially SIDS.

Third, make accountability inclusive. Build enabling environments that empower people, support innovation, and strengthen institutions. Partner across governments, civil society, and the private sector, as well as the academia. Track commitments, measure progress, and share lessons, as well as ensure inclusive follow-up across all regions and stakeholders.

Sustainable development cannot be achieved in silos.

In the Maldives.

We are pursuing cross-sectoral planning where economic goals support social goals as well as environmental goals which reinforce progress. This is why the Maldives has put forward its candidature for ECOSOC for 2027-29, to work with all Member States so that the UN system delivers as one.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Maldives. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nepal.

Madam President, distinguished delegates, I thank the former President of the Economic and Social Council and dear colleague, Ambassador Bobre, for his comprehensive report and valuable insight. I commend him for steering the ECOSOC with strong dedication and leadership during his presidency. It was a privilege and a pleasure to serve alongside him as a member of the Bureau and to contribute to the important work of ECOSOC under his guidance. I also commend the other Bureau members and the Secretariat for their outstanding contribution throughout the sessions. Madam President, for eight decades, ECOSOC has stood as a cornerstone of the United Nations' pursuit of peace, prosperity, and dignity for all. As the principal platform for inclusive dialogue and policy coordination, ECOSOC has fostered consensus, inspired innovation, and mobilized collective actions across the multilateral systems. It has played a pivotal role in translating global commitments into tangible progress, helping save the world we know today. As we face cascading and interconnected global crises, from violent conflict and climate disruption to rising inequalities and economic uncertainty, the imperative of inclusive multilateralism has never been more urgent. I believe that ECOSOC is uniquely positioned to meet this moment. By convening governments, civil society, youth, and the private sector, it fosters shared solutions and accelerated implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. Its convening power, normative leadership, and follow-up mandate make it indispensable in turning global ambitions into transformative, meaningful, and people-centered actions on the ground. Madam President, the last ECOSUS session was both successful and highly productive under the able leadership of President Babere. It convened a series of specialized joint meetings addressing key global priorities, including harnessing artificial intelligence for sustainable development, promoting safe and orderly migrations, financing for sustainable development, deepening our relationship with BWIs, promoting gender equality, and data-driven solutions for SDG, among others. The session reinforced ECOSOC's role as a dynamic platform for multilateral dialogue, coordination, and action. Ambassador Rey also significantly elevated the Council profile and visibility, underscoring its indispensable role in advancing multilateralism. He consistently highlighted the urgent need to accelerate SDG implementation, promote inclusive development, and ensure that no one is left behind. Under his stewardship, ECOSOC focused on translating global commitments into concrete national actions, mobilizing resources, and strengthening partnerships across governments, civil society, and private sector. Madam President, as ECOSOC approaches its 80th anniversary, the report reaffirms its central role in fostering policy coherence, coordination, and multilateral actions to accelerate the SDG. As President of the Economic and Social Council, I am deeply committed to building on the achievements made during Ambassador Babri's presidency. We have put every effort into sustaining that momentum, deepening engagement, and further advancing the Council's role as a catalyst for inclusive multilateralism. Under the motto of delivering better, I'm committed to make the Council more inclusive, more effective, and more action-oriented. As we mark the UN80, as well as ECOSOC 80 in January 2026, let us strengthen ECOSOC's role as a platform for dialogue, partnership, and accountability. Let us deliver better together in the interest of all. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nepal. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Poland.

Madam President, colleagues, Mr. President of the ECOSOC, Ambassador Bobrzej, thank you for presenting the report of the work of the Economic and Social Council in the 2024-2025 cycle. On behalf of Poland, allow me to begin by expressing our profound appreciation for your distinguished leadership as the president of the ECOSOC. Your guidance has been instrumental in steering our collective work, and it has been a privilege to witness your unwavering commitment firsthand. As the Vice-Chair of the ECOSOC, Poland has observed closely your dedication to strengthening this Council and ensuring its continued relevance in these challenging times. Your opening message in July 2025 As much as today reminded us of our mandate and our responsibility to the Council. And the quote, we are the embodiment of our commitment in Article 1.3 of the Charter to achieve international cooperation in solving international problems of economic, social, cultural, and humanitarian character. Indeed, ECOSOC has operated under difficult circumstances in 2024-25, as the global order continues to face immense disruption. Yet, your clarity of vision has guided ECOSOC's work with purpose and resolve. Allow me to share some reflections on the priorities you have advanced and we have advanced together as a Bureau of the ECOSOC in this period. Paul, we particularly value the openness you have demonstrated in engaging with the UN system, in deepening cooperation between the Council and international financial institutions, which you also mentioned today, and in welcoming the perspectives of the civil society and stakeholders, including the major groups. Mr. President, we thank you also for placing the crisis of displacement at the center of our deliberation. Today, more people are forced to be displaced than at any time since 1945, including in my region as a result of the Russian aggression against Ukraine. As Vice President of the ECOSOC, Poland was proud to co-organize, together with Costa Rica, the meeting on the transition from relief to development held on June 17, 2025, in Geneva. This discussion focused on solutions for people in vulnerable situations in crisis contexts, captured the essence of our shared mission, with particular attention to internally displaced persons. We are equally grateful for your impactful leadership in supporting Haiti on its path towards stability and sustainable development. Your strong emphasis on gender equality, was also important and your foresight in highlighting the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. Madam President, in ECOSOC, the development agenda remains a shared priority. Poland was honored as ECOSOC's vice chair to organize and preside over the 2025 operational activities for development segment under the theme, "Keeping the Promise on Sustainable Development in Times of Uncertainty: The United Nations Development System Delivering for Results." The ECOSOC High-Level Meeting provided indispensable visibility to the work of the UN country teams and resident coordinators, allowing them to frankly share their challenges with member states. It strengthened dialogue on how to make the system more efficient and effective in supporting developing countries and achieving the SDGs. During our tenure as ECOSOC Vice-Chair, we consistently emphasized that peace, development, and human rights are inseparable. Together, they form the central core of our mission, and if we uphold them jointly, not in silos and not as cafeteria approach, we can succeed. Mr. President Bobrzej, Poland, thank you once again for your vision, dedication, and your unwavering leadership. You have reminded true to your pledge to preside over this Council in a manner that is open and transparent, to listen, to learn, to engage, and to respond to the issues we face together. I extend our heartfelt congratulations on your extraordinary lifelong service. I wish you all the best. But of course, our work continues. And under the leadership of Ambassador Tapa, 2025-26 looks also very important for the future of the ECOSOC. And I encourage you all to take the full advantage of the UN reform and the review of the ECOSOC that is upcoming to get our Council stronger and responsive to the needs of people in need in many parts of the world. Thank you so much.

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

Madam President, distinguished delegates, It's my honor to address this assembly in the context of the report of ECOSOC for the July 2024 to July 2025 period. This report contains a, is a comprehensive stock taking exercise of the substantive work of the council during a crucial year for global sustainable development. I recognize the leadership of Ambassador Bob Ray of Canada, who headed up ECOSOC during this period. His strategic and committed approach led a significant mark on the work of the Council. Bob, you really will be missed. The Dominican Republic recently took up the vice presidency of ECOSOC for the 2025 to 2026 period with responsibility for the operational activities for development segment, reflecting our renewed commitment to multilateralism and the implementation of the 2030 agenda. Madam President, just five years from 2030, the world finds itself at a decisive crossroads, where multiple and interconnected crises require more coordination and collective action. ECOSOC has responded with an approach that prioritizes discussions to search for effective solutions. The report documents a year of substantive work that addressed matters from technological transformations to humanitarian crises. and matters from mass displacements to challenges in the area of financing for development. The special meeting that took place on the 6th of May on artificial intelligence that was mentioned, saw ECOSOC recognize that AI governance is both an historic opportunity as well as a critical challenge for global development. AI can support the achievement of 134 of the 169 targets of the SDGs. However, this potential will only be realized with deliberate action to close digital gaps. The Dominican Republic believes that AI governance must be multilateral in its design, inclusive in principle, and focused on development with effective technology transfer and international cooperation mechanisms. Madam President, the meetings and the work of the ad hoc advisory group on Haiti under the leadership of Ambassador Bob Rame gave us fundamental guidance on the fact that it is necessary to address the humanitarian and development dimensions in Haiti, otherwise we will not be able to make progress. The special meeting on the 2nd of December entitled "The Children of Haiti Cannot Wait" and the joint meeting on the 11th of June were strategic interventions to guide international actions towards humanitarian and development dimensions. Violence against children and women in Haiti has reached levels that are beyond belief. Children are approximately half of the members of armed gangs, not due to their choice, but due to the fact that there are a lack of other alternatives. When it comes to financing for development, the report on the forum rather on the 28th and 29th of April were a critical step towards FFD4 in Seville. The agreement adopted in Seville was a renewed commitment at a crucial juncture. The High Level Political Forum of 2025 saw deep running reviews of SDGs 3, 5, 8, 14 and 17, with 39 states presenting national voluntary reviews, including the Dominican Republic. Madam President, on this 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the 80th anniversary of ECOSOC, we are in a paradox. Never have global challenges required more multilateral cooperation. However, multilateralism has never been called into question as much as now. ECOSOC has shown over time its ability to adapt and respond effectively to complex challenges, and we're sure that it will continue to do this. The UNAT initiative of the Secretary-General represents an opportunity to further strengthen this essential platform. The ECOSOC report is testament to the ability of multilateralism to respond to complex crises. We're sure that the handing over of the presidency from Ambassador Bobray to Ambassador Lok Badal Tapa of Nepal for the 2025 to 2026 session will ensure this continuity. Just five years from 2030, every action counts. Let's make sure that 2025 is remembered as the year when we found the collective will to return to and to accelerate the 2030 agenda. Thank you very much, Madam President.

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

Madam President, please allow me to begin. by expressing on behalf of the Kingdom of Spain our most sincere thanks to Canada for their commendable work during the 2025 session. At the helm of the Economic and Social Council, ECOSOC, we wish to particularly recognize the work done by the Ambassador, the Permanent Representative, Bob Rae, whose vision and determination have been fundamental to achieving the results that we want, in particular his commitment and leadership towards achieving an ambitious agreement at FFD4 in Seville. Our thanks are also extended to the Vice Presidents, the Permanent Representatives of Nepal, Poland, Costa Rica and Equatorial Guinea for their dedication and constant work and the important role that they played to advancing the goals of ECOSOC. As you know, Spain was elected on the 31st of July as one of the vice presidents of ECOSOC alongside Algeria, Armenia and the Dominican Republic under the presidency of Nepal. Now we're at a decisive juncture. There are only four years left to achieve the 2030 agenda and the 17 sustainable development goals. However, far from getting dispirited, in light of recent reports that show that progress on some of the goals has been very slow, a lot slower than we hoped. This must actually be a call to action for 2026. Ecosoc has a vision that Spain wishes to drive forward during its vice presidency, the search for transformative solutions. equity as a guiding principle, innovation as an essential tool and cooperation as a shared way forward. This will be an opportunity to work actively to implement and deliver the commitments made at the Seville conference, the FFD4, and also the Seville Platform of Action. As you know, FFD is an absolute priority for my country, Spain. We're convinced that without adequate financial resources, no country will be able to move forward sustainably. It's essential to ensure that all nations, in particular the most vulnerable, have the means that they need to invest in education, health, equality, clean energy, innovation and climate resilience. Financing for development is not technical or sectoral matter. What it is above all is a matter of justice, solidarity and collective survival, which is why Spain reiterates its commitment to close the financing gaps and to mobilize resources for the protection of global public goods. Madam President, we are living at a time in which global interdependence is more obvious than ever. The challenges that we face from climate change to persisting inequalities from food crises to geopolitical tensions, all require collective, coordinated responses based on solidarity. Spain is convinced that multilateralism remains our best tool and our best instrument to move towards a more just, prosperous and sustainable world. That's why we reiterate that you can count on Spain. on our work, our cooperation, and our firm commitment that, working together, we will be able to make the commitments that we have made a reality. Thank you very much.

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

President, distinguished delegations, Russia supports the adoption of the report of ECOSOC in 2024-2025 today. We underscore its crucial role as the UN Charter body tasked with coordination, policy review, and issuing recommendations on issues on the economic, social and environmental agendas, as well as implementing decisions of international conferences and fora in the socio-economic sphere. Here we would like to thank Member States who have supported the Russian candidacy at the elections in June of this year, allowing for the return of our country to the ECOSOC starting on January 1st, 2026, Russia will make tangible contributions to the work of ECOSOC and will help to strengthen its role in the UN system. We note the accomplishments of the Canadian presidency in 2024-2025, as well as their efforts, sincere efforts to better organize the work of the Council, to modernize the working methods of its fora, and to highlight to the international community the contributions of ECOSOC in resolving global and regional problems. One of the priorities of the re-elected Bureau, in our view, should be preserving the intergovernmental nature of debates and negotiations within the Council, the central role of member states in the work of the four and subsidiary bodies. For us, the principle of consensus in the adoption of decisions and resolutions remains indispensable. At the same time, matters that are outside the purview of ECOSOC that some presidencies tend to promote as their own priorities, such as international peace and security, displaced persons, crimes against humanity, et cetera, ought to remain outside of its agenda. This does not take away from the importance of these issues, but we know that ECOSOC can sometimes have its work politicized. as demonstrated a bit earlier today. That is the unjustified attack of Poland against my country. We also support more equitable representation when appointing coordinators for informal negotiations, including on draft resolutions, outcomes and recommendations of ECOSOC fora on development financing and sustainable development. We would like to draw attention of the new bureaus to the need to strictly adhere to the mandates agreed upon in document agreements approved by Member States. Madam President and colleagues, ECOSOC, of course, has not stood aloof from discussions on UN reforms. In this regard, we support further strengthening rather than sequestering the budgets of its subsidiary bodies and regional economic commissions. Our country has been and remains a reliable partner for the regional economic commissions and the UN Secretary as a whole when it comes to ensuring progress toward achieving the SDGs in countries that receive aid. We call on future partners in the Council to follow our example. This should allow all of us to celebrate the 80th anniversary of ECOSOC in 2026 in a worthy manner and to see positive results of the upcoming consultations on strengthening ECOSOC. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Madam President. Let me begin by reiterating Kenya's deep appreciation to His Excellency Ambassador Popoola for his steadfast leadership as the President of the Economic and Social Council for the period 2024-2025. I also take this opportunity to welcome His Excellency Ambassador congratulate the new president, Lok Dapa, as he takes over the president of ECOSOC for 2025, 2026, and assure him of Kenya's continued support. Kenya welcomes the 2025 reports by ECOSOC. And as the team of the report reminds us, agenda 2030 was meant to guarantee sustainable development. So The stark reality is that the progress towards the attainment of the SDGs remain disturbingly slow, with only 35% of the targets on track, nearly half moving slowly, and 18% regressing. These indications are concerning. It is crucial that the international community of nations seeks urgent pathways to accelerate the implementation of 2030. Kenya, in this regard, acknowledges and concurs with the recommendations and remedial steps outlined in the 2025 report by ECOSOC. This includes the urgent need to address the shrinking development assistance and rising debt through bold reforms of the global financial architecture innovative investment strategies, and forging stronger multilateral cooperation in line with our commitment at the fourth Financing for Development Conference. Two, strengthen our collective efforts to create a more equitable global tax cooperation, debt relief, and innovative funding mechanism that will enable developing countries to mobilize domestic and international resources effectively. Three, promote decent work and employment creation through investing in social protection systems, investing in skills development, supporting entrepreneurship, and promoting global cooperation to address challenges such as informality, underdevelopment, and the transition to green and digital economies. Four, strengthen universal health coverage, resilient health system, and digital health technologies through innovative such as One Health approach and its emphasis on data-driven strategies. Five, advance efforts to dismantle discriminatory laws that continue to inhibit gender equality and women empowerment. Six, address forced displacement and refugee protection by strengthening international cooperation and burden sharing, enhancing humanitarian aid and development linkages, promoting self-reliance and inclusion of displaced populations, and reinforcing protection frameworks under the international law. And finally, utilize transformative potential of science technology and innovation, including artificial intelligence, to advance sustainable solutions. We must, however, keep in mind that technologies, if not well governed, can widen rather than reduce inequalities. Madam President, as I conclude, allow me to highlight the efforts made by ECOSOC in pursuit of peace, stability, and sustainable development in Haiti. by recognizing that humanitarian, security, and socioeconomic challenges require a coordinated and sustained international action. I thank you.

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

Madam President, Excellencies, colleagues, I thank you for the opportunity of this discussion today to reflect upon the report of the work of the Economic and Social Council for its 2025 session. Italy aligns itself to the statement delivered by the European Union and would like to add some remarks. First of all, I would like to thank Ambassador Bobo-Gaye, former President of ECOSOC, He did an incredible job in ensuring that the Council continues to serve as a platform for constructive dialogue and concrete solution. With your engagement and your leadership, Bob, you set an example for all of us on how to uphold multilateralism and the central role of the UN in it. Compared to previous years, in 2025, EcoStock has strengthened its ties to global processes, FFD4, Social Summit, emerging technologies, has promoted the culture of evaluation and data as a central lever, has broadened its focus on emerging issues, AI, displacement, development finance, has intensified the participation of non-state actors, youth, civil society, regional systems, has adopted an urgent approach to the SDGs in view of a 2030 deadline. 2025's High-Level Political Forum was also a major turning point of last year's ECOSOC activities, with only five years left to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in a phase of great challenges in the global multilateral agenda, where the progress on many targets is halted or proceeding at a slow pace. Over 2025, we particularly appreciated the cross-cutting approach of the President of ECOSOC, Bob Rae, signaling a deep understanding of the integrated dimension, economic, social, environmental of our challenges. Of course, none of this would have been possible without the leadership of Ambassador Rae. I think that in the future, we should continue to favor such horizontal approaches rather than sectorial ones. As many of you already said, ECOSOC stands at the heart of the reform process required by the UN 80 initiative. UN 80 reform promotes a better integration of development, human rights, and peace and security pillars. In this context, ECOSOC could become the permanent platform for these cross-cutting linkages by more systematically integrating outcomes from the coordination, development, financing, humanitarian, and human rights segments. At the same time, ECOSOC could position itself as a hub that ensures that the reforms do not fragment the socioeconomic dimension of the sustainable development pillar. In conclusion, again, dear Bob, thanks a lot for your superlative contribution to the UN. I have no quote here, but maybe, yes, I can quote the PGE, what she said at the beginning, that your voice will be missed here. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Italy. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ukraine.

Thank you, Madam President, distinguished delegates, Ambassador Bobray. At the outset, Ukraine wishes to express our sincere appreciation to the Permanent Representative of Canada, Ambassador Bobray, for his excellent and dedicated leadership of the Economic and Social Council during the past term. Your personal commitment has greatly contributed to the effective work of the Council in addressing an increasingly complex range of global challenges. Ukraine attaches great importance to the work of ECOSOC as the central UN body responsible for promoting international economic and social cooperation and development. Its deliberations are vital to advancing the 2030 Agenda and ensuring that global recovery remains inclusive, sustainable and resilient. Let me stress that ongoing armed conflicts around the world, including Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, severely undermine collective efforts to achieve the sustainable development goals. They cause immense human suffering and divert resources away from the sustainable development policies. As a new elected member of ECOSOC for the term 2026-2028, Ukraine will focus on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, including by strengthening global food and energy security, addressing the impacts of climate change, and reducing poverty and inequalities. Proper attention will be given to promoting gender equality and social inclusion, protecting the rights of children, persons with disabilities, and displaced persons, as well as enhancing environmental protection and sustainable resources management as key components of recovery and resilience. We will proceed from the importance of strengthening cooperation among ECOSOC's functional commissions and subsidiary bodies to ensure coherent and effective responses to global challenges. Ukraine attaches particular importance to the social dimension of development. We welcome the successful holding of the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha last week and commend State of Qatar for excellent organization of this important event. The outcomes of the summit and the newly adopted Doha Political Declaration provide a renewed impetus to collective efforts aimed at achieving social justice and inclusion for all. As the current chair of the 64th session of the Commission for Social Development, Ukraine stands ready to advance the follow-up to the Doha Declaration, to strengthen coordination with the ECOSOC system, and to promote tangible progress in implementing the social pillar of sustainable development. Madam President, the Doha Declaration is not a destination, but the beginning. Sustained commitment and concrete action of Member States are needed to achieve long-lasting progress. Ukraine's own experience shows that even under conditions of war, social protection, employment and inclusion remain vital to national resilience and recovery. We firmly believe that social justice and sustainable development are not only moral imperatives, but also prerequisites of lasting peace. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ukraine. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria.

Madam President, I thank my dear friend, Ambassador Ray, for the presentation of the ECOSOC report, which demonstrates its central role as a charter body in advancing the development goals. I commend the outstanding leadership of Ambassador Ray for the job well done in leading the ECOSOC at the pivotal moment for the 2030 Agenda marked by interlinked challenges. Challenges that our world is facing from poverty to food and security, climate change, conflicts, and widening inequalities, thus hindering our effort to achieve SDGs. I acknowledge the important topics highlighted by Ambassador Ray, mainly artificial intelligence and the engagement with international financial institutions. Artificial intelligence can play a significant role in accelerating progress towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. It is therefore essential to ensure that artificial intelligence is effectively governed and ethically applied, while emphasizing the importance of international cooperation to bridge the digital divide. and to ensure equitable access to digital technologies for developing countries. Strengthening the cooperation between ECOSOC and the international financial institutions is crucial to align financial flows with the sustainable development goals and better support better support the needs of developing countries, especially in the context of the implementation of the Seville Commitment. Madam President, I am honoured to serve as Vice-President of ECOSOC in this historic milestone as we mark its 80th anniversary, coinciding with important processes including the HPLF and ECOSOC review. I look forward to working with Ambassador Tapa, President of ECOSOC, and the Bureau members, my colleagues from Armenia, Dominican Republic, and Spain, for a fruitful session this year to accelerate efforts toward achieving SDGs with only five years remaining in 2030. 2030. Madam President, Algeria attaches great importance to the work of ECOSOC, in particular in the follow-up of the implementation of the 2030 Development Agenda and SDGs. In this regard, my country will present its VNR, Voluntary national report at the 2026 HLPF to showcase our national efforts in achieving SDGs. Madam President, regarding the third International Development Decade in Africa, it has made notable progress in areas such as agri-business, energy, pharmaceutical industries, and digital innovation. Yet, persistent challenges continue to hinder transformation, including limited economic diversification and constrained employment opportunities. The proclamation of the fourth industrial industrial development decade in Africa is an opportunity to build on the achievement while addressing remaining gaps to accelerate inclusive and sustainable industrial development across the continent. I wish to emphasize the importance of increased resource mobilizing and strengthening international cooperation to support Africa's efforts to industrial development, which is crucial for achieving SDGs and the implementation of Agenda 2063. Finally, Madam President, I would like to echo the wise words of Ambassador Ray about the courage, the courage of diplomats, courage of permanent representatives, the courage to defend our convictions in all the work of the United Nations, the courage to resist pressures, finally, the courage to defend the purpose and principles of our UN Charter for a fairer, more equitable, and more prosperous world. I thank you.

I thank the Distinguished Representative of Algeria. I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Armenia.

Madam President, distinguished delegates, Armenia commends the comprehensive work undertaken by the Economic and Social Council during its 25th session, as reflected in the document A/80/3. We extend our appreciation to the 24/25 President of ECOSOC, Ambassador Ray, as well as Ambassadors Maritsa, Anatolio, Lok, and And of course, I missed the fourth member, so Marica, Christophe, Anatolij, and Lok, voila. And of course, praise the effective leadership and for steering the Council through the ambitious program of work during a uniquely demanding year, even though it's part of the Jubilee year, 80th anniversary of ECOSOC. We particularly praise the Council's efforts to reinforce the centrality of sustainable development within a rapidly evolving global landscape. The 25 high-level segment and high-level political forum provided essential guidance at the midpoint between major global review processes and reaffirmed the meaningful progress required, renewed multilateral solidarity and stronger role for the evidence-based policy making. Armenia welcomes the Council's deepened engagement on crisis-related and cross-cutting issues. The special meetings conveyed by the President of the council demonstrated eco's continued ability to bring together development humanitarian and peace building actors to faster coherent responses that leave no one behind we appreciate the breadth of the council's work over the year which engaged the wide spectrum of issues from the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence to employment and decent work to financing challenges faced by countries in special situations, as well as reflections on the role of the ECASOC within a changing multilateral system. These conversations underscore the Council's ability to keep pace and emerging priorities and to guide practical cooperation across the UN system. Armenia attaches particular importance to the Council's work on advancing the financing for development agenda, Moving towards more equitable, predictable and development-oriented financial system remains imperative for achieving the sustainable development goals. And Council's efforts to strengthen coordination with international financial institutions, including through preparations for upcoming joint meetings, are timely and necessary. Madam President, before concluding, I would like to express my profound appreciation to our dear colleague and friend, dear Bob, for his exemplary leadership as President of ECOSOC and for his wise advice to me personally. As Armenia assumed its responsibilities in the Bureau of the ECOSOC, I reaffirm our commitment to ECOSOC as a pillar of the UN system, indispensable for achieving the 2030 Agenda, strengthening the coherence of our collective actions and enabling the multilateral system to respond with agility and ambition to emerging challenges. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Armenia and now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Costa Rica.

Madam President, Costa Rica appreciates the presentation of the Economic and Social Council's report and wishes to express its sincere gratitude to Ambassador Bob Rae of Canada for his outstanding leadership of this body. His tenure was characterized by a proactive approach, tireless energy, and profound reflection into the transformative role of ECOSOC within the UN system. I would also like to acknowledge and thank the permanent representatives and the excellent coordination that we had with the permanent representatives of Equatorial Guinea, Poland, and Nepal. with whom I shared the responsibility of serving on its bureau, a bureau that worked shoulder to shoulder with dedication and commitment to advance our common agenda. Under Canada's presidency, ECOSOC successfully repositioned itself as one of the central pillars of the UN and strengthened its ties with the General Assembly, the Peacebuilding Commission, and the Security Council. This comprehensive approach contributed to a more coherent understanding of the nexus between development, peace and humanitarian action, and reaffirmed the relevance of ECOSOC as a forum where many of the responses to the structural and interconnected challenges that the international community faces converge. Costa Rica particularly values the joint meeting of ECOSOC and the General Assembly, on the socio-economic impact of armed violence, especially that of illicit small arms and light weapons. This meeting highlighted important aspects of the final document of the fourth review conference of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eliminate the Illicit Traffic of Small Arms and Light Weapons in all its aspects. which Costa Rica had the honor of chairing in 2024. This joint initiative of the President of ECOSOC and the President of the General Assembly, Philemon Yang, reflects the need and determination to break down the imaginary walls that divide us and to address the root causes of armed violence, its socioeconomic consequences, and also to recognize the humanitarian impacts of illicit weapons and ammunition, particularly on women and girls. And I'm saying this because small arms and light weapons are a determining factor in the perpetuation of sexual violence in conflict contexts. According to the Secretary General's most recent report on this issue, between 2022 and 2024, human rights violations were recorded in 88% of documented incidents in environments where United Nations peacekeeping operations are mandated to prevent and respond to such violations. This synergy among the organization's main bodies demonstrates a commitment to moving towards coordinated, sustainable, and above all, comprehensive solutions. We also highlight Ambassador Ray's firm advocacy in his role as chair of the Council and of the Advisory Group on Haiti. and his unwavering commitment to maintaining international attention on the multidimensional crisis facing this sister nation. Thanks to these efforts, ECOSOC served as an essential platform for coordinating support, mobilizing resources, and keeping alive the hope for a more stable and dignified future for the Haitian people. as Vice President of ECOSOC, responsible for the Humanitarian Affairs segment, Costa Rica wishes to express its gratitude to all Member States that actively participated in this forum and added their voices to the call to action. This call garnered the support of 151 Member States, beyond the membership of ECOSOC, and sent a resounding collective message of support, both to those affected by humanitarian emergencies and to the humanitarian system that's working under enormous pressure. I take this opportunity on the occasion of the conclusion of Ambassador Ray's term as Permanent Representative to reaffirm that his presidency has left a lasting mark. You have made this United Nations system more humane, more honest, more inclusive and more genuinely multilateral. Costa Rica thanks you for your inspiring leadership, your advocacy for gender equality, your attention to vulnerable groups, your impatience in the face of inaction, and your conviction that multilateralism remains the best tool for transforming the lives of those who need it most. We wish you every success in the next stages of your journey, confident that your legacy will continue to inspire this organization. and all of us who believe in the transformative power of multilateralism with a human face. Thank you.

Muchas gracias. I thank the Distinguished Representative of Costa Rica. I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Malaysia.

Madam President, allow me to first extend our sincere appreciation to His Excellency, Mr. Bob Rae, president of ecosoc for the 2025 session for his outstanding leadership and contributions and to the members of the bureau the secretariat and all member states for their steadfast commitment and collaboration throughout this ecosoc session Madam President Malaysia commences the work Malaysia comments the report of the ECOSOC, which clearly reflects the breadth and depth of the Council's work, not only through its own deliberations, but also across the wider ECOSOC system. This year's session once again demonstrated the enduring value of partnership, dialogue and shared purpose in addressing complex challenges such as interconnected crisis, climate urgency, as well as development and financing gaps. The Council continues to serve as a vital platform for unity, reflection and forward-looking action. Malaysia values the opportunity to actively participate in many of this year's dialogues and meetings, which we hope will contribute meaningfully to shaping our collective understanding and advancing the 2030 Agenda. Notably, Malaysia presented our third VNR at the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development convened under the auspices of ECOSOC earlier this year. This presentation reaffirmed our enduring commitment to the 2030 Agenda and provided an opportunity to share Malaysia's progress, challenges, and aspirations, particularly in advancing green economy, social inclusion, and digital transformation. We are grateful to all partners and peers for their constructive engagement and support throughout this process. Madam President, Malaysia strongly welcomes ECOSOC's continued emphasis on advancing evidence-based solutions. For Malaysia, sustainable development is not only an economic and social goal, it is also a moral responsibility. It requires balancing growth with inclusiveness, resilience, and environmental stewardship. ECOSOC's continued work in advancing the three dimensions of sustainable development is vital. We further recognize the Council's focus on humanitarian affairs and peacebuilding, which reminds us that there can be no sustainable development without peace, justice, and dignity. In this regard, Malaysia reaffirms its consistent position that there can be no sustainable development without justice for the people of Palestine. The Council and the international community must take decisive and united action to uphold our shared commitments to lasting peace and prosperity for all. Madam President, we are reminded of the enduring truth that no nation can achieve the 2030 Agenda alone. The spirit of partnership that underpins ECOSOC's work must continue to guide our collective journey. Malaysia will continue to support the work of the Council and to engage closely with all partners to ensure that no one and no country is left behind. May our shared commitment to people, planet, prosperity and peace continue to guide and inspire our collective efforts in the years ahead. I thank you.

I thank the Distinguished Representative of Malaysia. I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Kuwait.

In the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful, Madam President, we are pleased to take part in this joint discussion of agenda items 9 and 13 on the report of ECOSOC and the implementation and follow-up to the outcomes of the major UN conferences and summits in the economic, social, and related fields. Given the importance of these issues and their impact on international stability and development, we thank the Secretary-General for these reports, presented in documents A/80/308 and A/80/271, as well as ECOSOC for the annual report A/80/3, containing a comprehensive review of progress made and remaining challenges. President, we believe that the multilateral system covering specialized UN agencies and bodies remains the most effective framework for addressing transborder challenges that our world is facing today. In this regard, the central role of ECOSOC helps to strengthen coordination between agencies to ensure follow-up on international commitments and to guarantee complementarity between efforts in the socio-economic and environmental aspects of sustainable development. successive global crises, including conflicts, market fluctuations, climate change, rising vulnerabilities and poverty. All of these crises reveal the need to renew our international commitment to the 2030 agenda. The gaps in achieving the SDGs continue to deepen, which requires an increase in development financing, as well as the provision of aid to developing countries and LDCs to allow them to strengthen their capacity and adapt to economic shocks. Madam President, as part of our development policy, Kuwait focuses on human beings who remain at the center of development. My country, therefore, uses the Kuwait Development Economic Fund. We support vital development projects and infrastructure in developing countries and promote regional and international partnerships that aim to ensure sustainable and conclusive growth. We also continue our commitment to voluntarily contribute to UN agencies, funds, and programs. We are aware of the importance of these efforts to support vulnerable communities and to bolster socio-economic development. Madam President, my country believes that the implementation of the outcomes and texts of the major UN conferences and summits requires strengthening synergies between the main UN bodies, developing follow-up and evaluation mechanisms, and heightening transparency and shared responsibility in the implementation of commitments. Kuwait also underscores the importance of complementarity between the work of ECOSOC and the work of the High-Level Political Forum in order to contribute to the assessment of progress made in the implementation of the SDGs and identifying remaining gaps in a realistic and objective way. Therefore, we would like to sincerely thank the State of Qatar for its warm welcome of the second Social Development Summit that took place in Doha on November 4th to 6th, 2025. We thank Qatar for their outstanding organization and welcome of the delegations, which ensured the success of this conference and the adoption of the Doha Declaration. This is an essential step toward renewing the international commitment when it comes to the social aspect of development, especially in the area of social protection, decent work, eradication of poverty, and women's empowerment, self-empowerment of youth and persons with disabilities. We underscored that tackling social challenges, especially unemployment, inequality, and improving social protection systems, this is all the foundation of stability, peace, and development. In this regard, my country supports international efforts to strengthen social safety nets, improve education and sanitation systems, healthcare systems, empower women and youth, and facilitate their integration in the economy. Madam President, the State of Kuwait renews its firm commitment to sustainable development and multilateralism. At the same time, we reaffirm our desire to pursue positive cooperation with ECOSOC and with all international partners in order to implement our common commitments and to bring about inclusive and equitable development in order to build a more prosperous, sustainable world for all. Thank you.

The distinguished representative of Kuwait. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guinea.

Madame President, at the outset, I'd like to commend the leadership and commitment of Ambassador Bob Ray as he led the work of ECOSOC over the past year. My delegation also commends the essential role of ECOSOC in promoting coordination, coherence, and complementarity in policy. to support the implementation of the SDGs by 2030. Madam President, we believe that achieving the SDGs requires a comprehensive approach combining economic progress, social inclusion, and environmental protection. The Government of Guinea, therefore, has launched major reforms to improve economic governance, promote inclusive and sustainable development. In this regard, our development program for sustainable national development by 2040 focuses on agriculture, the food industry, education, infrastructure, technology, health, and well-being. As part of its implementation, the government has just operationalized a number of projects for iron mining that will help to reduce poverty and contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic growth. It will also accelerate the achievement of the SDGs by Guinea. Madam President, the implementation of the SDGs remains plagued by persistent challenges, including a lack of financing, growing indebtedness, the impact of climate change, as well as many other crises. In light of these challenges, Guinea calls for heightened international cooperation through equitable partnerships, improved coherence between multilateral frameworks and national policies, as well as increased mobilization of financial resources, both public and private, to support sustainable development efforts. In conclusion, Madam President, the Republic of Guinea underscores the crucial role of ECOSOC in the follow-up and coordination of economic and social policies throughout the world and advocates for enhanced support to developing countries as well as improved synergies of ECOSOC's action with those of international financial institutions. Thank you.

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

Madam President, distinguished delegates, Timor-Leste expresses its appreciation to the President of the Economic and Social Council, Ambassador Bob Rae of Canada, for his tireless leadership and his team, and also extends warm congratulations to His Excellency Lok Bahadur Thapa, Permanent Representative of Nepal, on his election as the new President of ECOSOC. We commend the Council for its steadfast commitment to advancing sustainable development amid an increasingly complex global landscape. We welcome the report of Economic and Social Council and also the World Social Report, which together provide an invaluable reflection on the economic and social challenges confronting the international community. These reports remind us that the premise of the 2030 Agenda remains unfulfilled for too many, particularly for the world's least developed countries. Madam President, the financial health of the United Nations remains a matter of collective responsibility. As of late October this year, 142 Member States, including Timor-Leste, have paid their regular budget assessments in full. However, persistent arrears continue to hinder the organization's ability to fulfill its mandate. Such financial constraints affect not only the functioning of ECOSOC, but also the entire UN system, encompassing peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, and the coordination of sustainable development. Timor-Leste calls on all member states to fulfill their assessed contributions in full and on time. Reliable financing is not a gesture of generosity, It is the foundation of multilateral trust and shared responsibility. Madam President, as the least developed country, Timor-Leste welcomes the 2025 report of the Committee for Development Policy, which calls for the strengthened framework for LDCs graduation, enhanced monitoring and countries in transition, and greater international support for those vulnerable to external shocks. We recognize the progress made by several LDCs toward graduation. However, the CDP rightly warns that the global crisis, climate change, debt distress, and volatile markets are placing additional strain on the most vulnerable economies. Timor-Leste continues to advance toward graduation through investments in human capital, poverty reduction, and education. However, Challenges remain in economic diversification, food security, and climate resilience. Our national determined contribution of 2022-2030 and the forthcoming UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026 and 2030 outline our vision for transformation. A diversified low-carbon economy based on sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and inclusive growth. We count on the continued solidarity of our partners and the guidance of ECOSOC to realize this vision. Madam President, Timor-Leste also welcomes the progress in negotiations toward a UN framework convention on international tax cooperation, a milestone initiative toward a fairer, more inclusive global tax architecture. Strengthening international tax cooperation will help developing countries mobilize domestic resources an essential condition for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Finally, Madam President, as we prepare for the mid-term review of the Doha Programme of Action for LDCs, Timor-Leste calls upon ECOSOC to champion a new approach, one that transforms vulnerability into resilience. Timor-Leste reaffirms its unwavering commitment to multilateralism, and with the new President of ECOSOC, to fulfill the collective promise of the United Nations to leave no one behind. I thank you.

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

Madam President, Portugal aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. Allow me to begin by echoing warmly and deliberately the tributes expressed today to Ambassador Bob Ray for his exemplary leadership of the Economic and Social Council. His vision, energy and unwavering political commitment have marked this ECOSOC cycle in a profound way. As is clear from the interventions we have just heard, he leaves behind a legacy of clarity, purpose, and integrity. And may I add in a personal note and quoting his quotation of Sonnet 25 of William Shakespeare, that I'm sure that he will also remain beloved here where he was or will be removed. We would like also to congratulate Ambassador Lok Bahadur Thapa as he assumes the presidency of the Council. Portugal looks forward to working closely with him as the United Nations system navigates a decisive moment in implementing the 2030 Agenda and the Pact for the Future. Excellencies, the report of the ECOSOC provides a comprehensive and substantive picture of a year marked by intense multilateral engagement. From the operational activities segment to the high-level political forum, from the special meetings on tax cooperation and artificial intelligence to the joint and important sessions on Haiti and on forced displacement. It also reaffirms the indispensable role of the United Nations Sustainable Development pillar, an irreplaceable one within the United Nations, and of ECOSOC as a central platform for coordinating the organization's socioeconomic work, which lies at the heart of implementing the 2030 Agenda. Allow me now to highlight three points particularly relevant from Portugal's perspective. First of all, financing for development remains the backbone of our collective ability to deliver on the SDGs. In this regard, and as former co-chairs of the Preparatory Committee for FfD 4, Portugal wishes to pay a special tribute to Canada and personally to Ambassador Bob Ray for his exceptional engagement and leadership in this file. He consistently went beyond rhetoric, taking concrete steps to deepen the membership's understanding of the challenges and opportunities in financing sustainable development. And he did so as co-chair of the Group of Friends on SDG Financing, but also equally as President of ECOSOC. Perhaps most importantly, he helped narrow the long-noted gap between the cities of Washington and New York, a structural challenge in the financing for development agenda. This contribution, we are sure, will endure. ECOSOC's dedicated FFD forum remains an essential platform to advance a more inclusive global financial architecture, enhance international tax cooperation, and strengthen access to affordable finance for the most vulnerable. Second, Ambassador Ray's leadership was consistently guided by principles, never shying away from reaffirming the centrality of human rights, of gender equality, and of the empowerment of women and girls as indispensable foundations for sustainable development. These values are not additional add-ons. They are preconditions for success. Portugal deeply appreciates his moral clarity in consistently upholding these guiding elements, particularly at a moment when consensus is increasingly fragile. Third. ECOSOC's work during this cycle reinforced the importance of evidence-based policy, science, innovation and future thinking. This is reflected in the High-Level Political Forum, the STI Forum and the Council's emphasis on long-term trends, digital transformation and artificial intelligence, including the need to harness AI responsibly to accelerate sustainable development while addressing its risks. These are essential discussions as the UN approaches its 80th anniversary and prepares for the next cycle of implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Excellencies, to conclude, at the midway point between the adoption of the SDGs and the 2030 horizon, and in the first year of implementing the Pact for the Future, ECOSOC's role is more vital than ever. Delivering coherence, mobilizing political attention, and ensuring system-wide accountability will remain central tasks. Portugal stands ready to support the new President in a new cycle in the ECOSOC and to continue working with all partners to rebuild trust, strengthen multilateral action and accelerate the implementation of the SDGs. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal. We've heard the last speaker in the debate on these items. May I take it that the Assembly takes note of the report of the Economic and Social Council? It is so decided. The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda items 9 and 13. The Assembly will begin its consideration in a joint debate of agenda item 120, entitled "Implementation of the resolutions of the United Nations", and agenda item 121, entitled "Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly". I will now make a statement as the President of the General Assembly on that item. Excellencies, Let me begin by recognizing the leadership of Ambassador Corneliu Furuta, Permanent Representative of Romania, and Ambassador Matu Jojini, Permanent Representative of South Africa, as former co-chairs of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Revitalization of the Work of the General Assembly. Revitalization remains central to the strength and credibility of this Assembly. We thank you both, dear Ambassadors, Your Excellencies, for your stewardship of this process during the previous session. Today, the revitalization process unfolds against the backdrop of a broader reform agenda, the UN80 initiative. These two efforts are intertwined. Both aim to make the United Nations more effective, more efficient, and ultimately stronger. As a chief deliberative, policy-making and representative organ of the UN, the General Assembly must lead by example, showing that it too can adapt to the challenges of the 21st century. Business as usual will not suffice. We need fewer repetitive resolutions, shorter debates and smarter scheduling. No more resolutions for resolutions' sake. Only resolutions that propel our work, that deliver on the UN's mission to promote peace, development, and human rights. By optimizing our methods and processes, we can work smarter, deliver faster, and ensure that every decision of this Assembly drives real impact. Resolution 79/327 charts the course. It calls on each main committee to review its working methods and propose concrete measures to enhance efficiency, including merging similar agenda items to avoid repetition, reducing the frequency, length, and number of resolutions, using biennial and triennial cycles where appropriate. by limiting explanations of vote to five minutes, and simplifying adoption procedures, one gavel, one decision, all texts. These recommendations, so your recommendations, recommendations by member states, would help shape a General Assembly that is not mired in bureaucracy, but equipped to respond to global challenges with agility and coherence, An Assembly ready for the scale of its responsibilities. But unless these reforms are implemented, they remain just words on paper. Just another resolution. Colleagues, on this I must be candid. We cannot preach on Sunday that we need fewer resolutions, then proceed to submit one for consideration on Monday. And this is unfortunately taking place. We have seen the main committees put forward resolutions for three-day conferences with no budget attached, fully aware of the fiscal situation we are debating at the same moment. We have seen over 160 side events during High-Level Week, despite the call for less, or by some even the call for no side events at all. And we have seen already three or four high-level meetings submitted for consideration for the 81st High-Level Week, with four for each of the 82nd and 83rd, despite the decision of this Assembly, so by all of us, to limit this to a maximum of three. While we all want to protect the things we care about, Each of us must make concessions in this time of reform. If we do not make the hard decisions, others, less passionate about or even in opposition to this institution, to its mission and its mandates, will make decisions for us. This holds true also for the Office of the President of the General Assembly. As underlined also in the resolution, the workload and expectations placed upon this body grow, so too do those placed upon the President and their office. Revitalization must therefore extend to the OPGJ itself. And the 80th session benefited from an early, seamless handover from the 79th, allowing us to hit the ground running. Yet the volume of work remains immense. Our high-level week featured over seven major meetings in just a few days. The remainder of the session will see nearly 20 intergovernmental processes and multiple mandated high-level meetings. And the total number of resolutions has barely changed, many nearly indigental to those of past sessions. Colleagues, again, this is not sustainable. and it's contradicting the call, especially from smaller missions, that they cannot be at three meetings at the same time. So transitions matter. Preparation matters. We must ensure each presidency is set up for success. I therefore thank all member states who have supported and continue to support the OPGA during this session. I encourage continued investments in the OPGA Trust Fund and the Fellowship Program, and sustained attention to policies that strengthen this office to meet the growing demands. Excellencies, dear colleagues, we all know the months ahead will be demanding. So it needs all of us, and it needs our team spirit. We are, indeed, better together. The UN AIDS initiative, while spearheaded by the Secretary General, increasingly depends on you, the membership, your engagement, sometimes your personal engagement, like we just discussed in the other session. Likewise, the selection process for the next Secretary-General must be a shared priority by all of us, given the important role played by the Secretary-General in the context of current global challenges. The revitalization resolutions have introduced significant improvements to the selection and appointment process of the Secretary-General, and the UN membership has provided clear guidance therein. Resolution 79/327 defines the principles and process steps for the upcoming selection and appointment. I am working closely with the President of the Security Council to ensure that this process is inclusive and transparent, in line with Resolution 79/327, including the joint letter inviting Member States to present candidates. I look forward to working with you as this process unfolds. Excellencies, whether on reform, budgets or procedures, difficult decisions lie ahead. Our task is to ensure that this Assembly is ready to meet them, every day. Revitalization is not procedural housekeeping. It is institutional renewal. Let us work together to define a General Assembly that is not repetitive, fragmented or procedural, but a General Assembly that is strategic, coherent and focused on outcomes. A General Assembly that is better together. I thank you. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of our next session. which is Slovenia, please. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Madam President. And thank you for very clear messages and your call to honor all of us to align our actions with the resolutions that we are adopting. Now I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of Mexico, Spain, and my own country, Slovenia. Madam President, Thank you for convening this plenary meeting on the issue of General Assembly revitalization during the 80th session. First of all, we would like to thank the co-chairs of the ad hoc working group on the revitalization of the work of the General Assembly during its 79th session, the permanent representative of the Republic of South Africa, Ambassador Matu Joyni, and Romania, Ambassador Cornel Feruta. the ad hoc working group under your leadership deliver an outcome with a number of important achievements. Madam President, a year ago on this very podium, Slovenia, together with Mexico and Spain, and joined by a group of 79 other member states, delivered a statement highlighting the importance of gender equality and the representation of women in leadership positions at the United Nations. We continued our engagement towards greater gender parity throughout the session, together with a large group of like-minded States. The strong support of the wider membership to the message on the importance of gender balance and parity resulted in the adoption of key provisions within resolution 79/327. We welcome the provisions on the representation of women and gender balance in the top two most visible leadership positions. We see it as progress towards facilitating more equal representation of women and men in UN leadership, but much more remains to be done. Madam President, your election as the only fifth woman ever to serve as the President of the General Assembly is historic. However, it also reminds us that in the 80 years of our organization, only a handful of women have presided over the General Assembly, and no woman has ever held the position of the UN Secretary-General. These facts are not only regrettable, they are unacceptable. We therefore look towards forward to seeing more women put forward as candidates for both the President of the General Assembly and the Secretary-General, and we urge Member States to uphold the principle of gender balance throughout the nomination, selection and appointment processes. At the same time, we call on Member States to consider additional measures to close the persistent gender gap. In line with resolution 79/327, we look forward to exploring concrete steps to address the gender disparity in the position of the President of the General Assembly at the 81st session. One such step could be an arrangement on the rotation between men and women in this important role. But no matter what formula or mechanism we agree on, the outcome must be clear: an agreement among Member States on a procedure to ensure gender parity in future selection processes for all UN leadership positions. Madam President, the urgency of this issue is undeniable. The United Nations is facing uncertain and challenging times. To take us forward, we need to take advantage of all the talent, experience and potential of the people the UN represents. including half of the global population that has so far been too often excluding from leading it. Underrepresentation of women has no place in modern societies, political decision-making, or multilateralism. Real change is not only necessary, but has long been overdue. Madam President, some changes take time, but others require bold and immediate action. Now is the moment to be bold, to demand concrete action and results, both within the revitalization process and beyond. Let's make sure the UN leads by example and demonstrate our collective commitment to gender equality through the full, equal and meaningful participation of women at the highest levels of decision-making. Let's end the 80th session of the General Assembly with a woman President of the General Assembly and incoming woman Secretary-General. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Slovenia on behalf of Mexico and Spain. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union on behalf of the EU and its Member States.

Madam President, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the European Union and its Member States. The candidate countries North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Georgia, as well as San Marino, align themselves with this statement. The European Union attaches great importance to the full and effective implementation of General Assembly resolutions and to the revitalization of the work of this body. We view these efforts as essential to ensuring that the General Assembly remains an efficient, transparent, and credible pillar of multilateralism, capable of responding to the complex challenges facing the United Nations and the international community. The European Union welcomes the progress made at the outset of the 80th session in implementing commitments across the main committees, as outlined in resolution 79/327. GA revitalization remains central to the UN80 initiative and closely linked to its work. We look forward to seeing how synergies develop between this process and the ongoing efforts across the three UN80 work streams. We encourage active engagement between the bureaus and the informal ad hoc working group on the mandate implementation review.

We also look forward to the implementation of the agreed language on cluster 3 of the resolution on revitalization concerning the selection and appointment of the Secretary-General. This will be an important milestone of this session and should contribute to a more transparent and inclusive process, in line with Article 97 of the Charter. Madam President, please allow me to briefly summarise the work of the main committees. On the first committee, the first committee completed its work ahead of schedule despite fewer meetings and more statements. demonstrating that streamlining is possible. New time limits, effective time management and organisational innovations, such as disclosing the identity of states requesting votes in writing, have proven essential. On the second committee, revitalisation remains vital to strengthen effectiveness and ensure delivery of the 2030 agenda. Inaction and fragmented efforts threaten progress on the sustainable development goals. We cannot afford to lose momentum. This committee must drive efficiency, coherence and impact. Consideration should be given to the number and timing of resolutions to reflect shared priorities and maximise impact. Switching to Spanish. On the third committee, reduced meeting time was managed efficiently by combining general debates, which freed approximately 15 hours. We commend this innovative approach and encourage its continuation, alongside measures like reducing the length and periodicity of resolutions. On the fourth committee, communicating changes to the programme of work via e-delegates enhanced transparency and predictability. Starting substantive work immediately and using a table format programme of work improved the use of time and the quality of the discussions. On the fifth committee, revitalisation is timely and necessary. The current programme of work does not fully reflect the committee's scope and complexity. Systemic review of the causes behind repeated extensions and lost time in resume sessions is needed. Rationalisation and enhanced working methods would improve predictability, efficiency and cost effectiveness. The sixth committee now. Here, the European Union has proposed streamlining, for example, the resolution on the report of the special committee on the Charter of the United Nations and on the strengthening of the role of the organization by condensing 13 preambular paragraphs, which recall earlier reports and resolutions that go back as far as 1995 into a single reference. While discussions continue, this illustrates the benefits of shortening products, improving readability, and selecting only relevant references. In conclusion, we shouldn't go the easy way of technical rollovers, but instead critically assess each paragraph and reference and delete outdated elements.

Madam President, revitalization is a continuous effort that requires institutional adjustments, political will, and accountability. The European Union reaffirms its commitment to constructive engagement for a more effective, transparent and inclusive General Assembly. We stand ready to contribute to discussions that ensure the UN's deliberative bodies remain efficient, credible and responsible to the needs of the international community. I thank you.

I thank the Distinguished Representative of the European Union. I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Australia on behalf of CANS.

Thank you, President, and thank you very much indeed to our colleagues from Romania and South Africa for the hard work undertaken over the course of the period in relation to revitalization. As the President mentioned, I speak on behalf of Canada, New Zealand, and of course, my own country, Australia. In a system too often challenged by division, the unique convening power of the General Assembly as a forum for all Member States, big and small, remains unmatched. The adoption of resolution 79/327 by consensus demonstrates that Member States believe in and want an effective General Assembly. Reform has always been part of the United Nations conversation. But today, with growing global challenges and even more limited resources, it's more urgent than ever. Revitalization is a crucial mechanism to make the General Assembly function better so that it delivers more. We are committed to a strong, efficient and streamlined General Assembly. In this regard, revitalization goes hand in hand with the Secretary-General's UN80 reform initiative. Today, CAHNS makes three key points. First, we welcome resolution 79/327 as a strong step in the right direction and encourage all member states to walk the talk and support its full implementation. For example, the resolution prioritizes efficiency through the one gavel approach to adopting consensus main committee resolutions, by encouraging members to keep explanations of vote to under five minutes, and by pausing new proposals for international days, weeks, months, and years, and decades, and grouping together future commemorative resolutions. These practices will help the General Assembly focus on the key issues that matter most and can make it easier for all Member States, particularly small and medium-sized delegations, meaningfully to engage in the work of the Assembly. Second, looking forward, Cairns encourages all of us to carry momentum forward and to continue to advance the unfinished business of General Assembly revitalization, to include time-bound provisions or at least mandate review clauses when they are appropriate in new General Assembly resolutions, to assess resource implications and program budget implications early in the establishment or renewal of mandates and to identify appropriate offsets where needed; to promote multi-annual renewal for General Assembly resolutions that do not substantively change from year to year; and to encourage the President of the General Assembly to provide action-oriented recommendations regarding the use of the veto, as requested in resolution 79/327, to realize the potential of the veto initiative in increasing transparency and accountability around the use of the veto. Third, CANS welcomes the establishment of the Working Group on the Strengthening and Revitalizing the Work of the General Assembly and calls for the new Working Group to coordinate closely with the UNAT informal ad hoc Working Group on Mandates under Workstream 2, including ways that the General Assembly Revitalization Working Group could build upon and implement the outcomes of the informal ad hoc Working Group to improve the creation, implementation and review of resolutions. We also welcome each of the six main committees reviewing their working methods this session and submitting concrete proposals to the General Committee on how to make their work more efficient and effective, while also ensuring coordination with ongoing work under UNAT Work Stream 2 to avoid duplication of efforts and ensure coherence across committee work. In closing, CAN supports continuing to work towards a revitalized and resilient General Assembly, because a more effective and efficient General Assembly is crucial to creating a United Nations that is capable of solving the world's problems for generations to come. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Australia on behalf of Cairns. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Thank you, Madam President. Malaysia has the honor of speaking on behalf of the 11 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, as its chair for this year. At the outset, ASEAN wishes to thank Ambassador Corneliu Furuta of Romania and Ambassador Mathu Joyini of South Africa for their stewardship as the co-chairs of the ad hoc working group on the revitalization of the work of the General Assembly during the 79th session. Madam President, we welcome the adoption by consensus of the resolution on the revitalization of the work of the General Assembly at the previous session. ASEAN believes the resolution will continue to contribute and strengthen our collective efforts on the important agenda of revitalizing the General Assembly. ASEAN has actively participated and contributed to the thematic debates convened by the Co-Chairs during the 79th session. During the thematic debates, ASEAN consistently advocated for greater women's representation for the positions of the President of the General Assembly and of the Secretary-General of the UN. We have also urged for the strengthening of the institutional memory of the Office of the President of the General Assembly and for its adequate funding and support. ASEAN will continue this active engagement and contribution during the current session. Madam President, to contribute to this plenary debate, allow me to emphasize the following points. First, ASEAN welcomes efforts to streamline and further strengthen the working methods of the General Assembly as provided by the resolution on the revitalization of the work of the General Assembly. The reformed working methods, if fully implemented, will allow for better optimization of resources for both Member States and the UN. It is important that all Member States work together to ensure the reforms to the working method under the resolution are fully implemented. We are encouraged by and fully support the continued emphasis on equal and fair geographical representation to ensure that our regions are fairly represented in the leadership roles of the UN. Geographical balance and distribution are essential in the selection and appointment of the Secretary-General and among executive heads within the UN. This geographical balance and rotation should receive our continued support to strengthen a just and inclusive system. The previous point about geographical balance brings me to an equally, if not more important matter, the under-representation of women in leadership positions within the UN. We currently have a woman elected as the PGA, but sadly, she is only the fifth out of 80 PGAs since the establishment of the UN. Even more deserving of our attention, no woman has ever been the UN Secretary General. ASEAN reiterates our call to encourage the nomination of women candidates for the positions of the PGA, the Secretary-General, and other executive heads of the UN. We must translate our commitment to gender equality into concrete actions through appointments to these important positions. Madam President, to conclude, ASEAN remains dedicated to advancing the revitalization of the work of the General Assembly agenda. We look forward to working closely with the co-chairs and contributing constructively alongside member states to further advance the bold reforms required to renew the General Assembly's central role in global governance, ensuring it remains an effective, inclusive and accountable institution. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Malaysia. On behalf of ASEAN, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement.

Madam President, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement, one of the largest cross-regional groups consisting of 121 member states. The movement reaffirms its strong commitment to strengthening the central role of the General Assembly as the most representative, democratic, and universal organ of the United Nations, ensuring that the General Assembly remains the primary forum for multilateral dialogue and decision-making is vital for a more inclusive and effective United Nations. The Non-Aligned Movement emphasizes that the revitalization of the General Assembly is a critical component of the comprehensive reform of the United Nations. It should aim to enhance its authority and its efficiency while preserving its intergovernmental nature. The Non-Aligned Movement welcomes the progress reflected in Resolution 79/327, which demonstrates Member States' commitment to a more efficient and revitalized General Assembly and to revigorating the multilateral system. In this regard, the Movement attaches great importance to maintaining a transparent, inclusive and Member State-driven process within the Working Group on the strengthening and revitalizing of the work of the General Assembly. Revitalization must not be viewed as a mere procedural exercise, but as a political process that enhances the Assembly's role. The participation of all states, particularly developing countries, must remain central to the process of improving the working methods and agenda of the Assembly. The Movement stressed the need for balanced and coordinated interaction between the General Assembly, the Security Council, and the ECOSOC, in strict conformity with the UN Charter. The Assembly should continue to exercise its full competence on matters of peace and security, of development, and of human rights, in accordance with the Charter, and ensuring that its resolutions and debates contribute meaningfully to the work of the United Nations as a whole. In this context, the movement emphasized the UN80 initiative, while offering an opportunity to strengthen the multilateral system, should not divert attention or resources away from the core priorities of developing countries. The Non-Aligned Movement further underlines the importance of promoting gender balance, equitable geographical representation, and multilingualism within the UN system, including in senior positions. In this regard, the Movement reiterates that the process for the selection and appointment of the Secretary-General of the United Nations and other executive heads must remain transparent, must remain inclusive with geographical balance and guided by the principles of equality and merit, continuing efforts to achieve fair distribution in terms of gender and geographical balance, noting that that has yet to be a woman Secretary-General, and emphasizing the importance of continuing efforts to achieve geographical balance. The movement further stresses the need to strengthen the office of the President of the General Assembly, including through enhanced transparency institutional continuity, and adequate resources from regular budget in order to ensure its impartiality, efficiency, and capacity to fulfill its important mandate. Madam President, the Non-Aligned Movement remains firmly committed to a revitalized General Assembly, A General Assembly that upholds the principles of equality, universality and multilateralism, ensuring that the voices of all Member States, especially developing countries, are heard and are respected. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Algeria on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Estonia on behalf of the ACT Group.

President, I'm honored to take the floor on behalf of our 27 members of Accountability, Coherence, and Transparency ACT Group. First, we would like to thank the co-chairs of ad hoc working group on the revitalization of the General Assembly of the last session. Ambassadors, Colonel Ferruta and Matujoyeni, and their teams for their committed efforts on the negotiations of a resolution adopted in September. Our group is looking forward to continue working towards a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive General Assembly at a time when the United Nations is at the crossroads, politically as well as financially. President, the most pressing issue the United Nations faces today pertains to peace and security. Act Group has always maintained that, in line with Chapter VIII of the Charter, the General Assembly has a clear and active role to play in this area, a role we have seen becoming even more important, especially when the Security Council is unable to act. In this regard, we are pleased to see that Resolution 79/327 recognizes the functions, powers and role of the Assembly in a more detailed manner. enhancing thereby the fulfillment of GA's responsibilities in matters of international peace and security. We have seen the relevance of emergency special session and the veto initiative in ensuring better accountability within the United Nations system and strengthening the role of Assembly. We believe that there are more opportunities for the GA's active role within these frameworks, including making concrete recommendations to Member States or the Security Council, as empowered by Articles 10, 11 and 12 of the Charter. Another valuable resource for equipping the Assembly to take on its role is the Assembly for Peace Digital Handbook. We encourage all Member States to make full use of it. We hope, President, that your office will continue with its annual update and wider dissemination among Member States, as encouraged in resolution 79/327. We are pleased that the GA revitalization resolution reconfirms the commitment made in the Pact for the Future to support credible, timely and decisive action by the Security Council to prevent or end the commission of genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes and reiterates the call to member states to refrain from measures impeding such action, including by the misuse of the veto. We encourage the current 130 signatories to the ACT Code of Conduct to consistently adhere to their responsibilities and call for more countries to join the Code of Conduct. We especially encourage signatories on the Council to work together to initiate relevant discussions and products. That group highlights the importance of ensuring the application of Article 27 of the UN Charter, which includes the obligation that members of the Security Council abstain from voting on decisions under Chapter VI and under paragraph 3 of Article 52 if they are party to a dispute. Past years, in particular, have seen clear cases of non-observance of this obligatory Charter provision. the Council must fully implement and adhere again to this important provision. The failure to implement it directly affects the effectiveness of the United Nations and contradicts the no one is the judge in their own cause principle. We believe that the General Assembly has a role in ensuring observance of the Charter and look forward to working with all those with an interest in taking action to this end. President, the Security Council's annual report to the GA serves as an important transparency and accountability measure on the work of the Security Council in fulfilling their mandate to maintain international peace and security. While we welcome the Security Council's efforts in producing a more comprehensive annual report and the inclusion of a chapter on special reports on the use of the veto, we continue to encourage the Council to provide a more complete substantive, and analytical account of its work to the General Assembly, one that goes beyond a factual summary to include assessment of trends, outcomes of decisions, and the impact of implementation on the ground, including an analysis of the cases in which the veto has been exercised. President, in 2026, the General Assembly will appoint the next Secretary-General for this organization. Resolution 79/327 made some progress both for the Assembly and the Security Council in advancing the process of a selection of a Secretary-General. Whilst ACT is pleased that for the first time the resolution sets out the general timeline for the role process, We encourage more details in the forthcoming joint letter from Presidents of the Security Council and the General Assembly on the timing for different stages of the process in both the Council and the Assembly. The predictability of a timeframe for the process is an important transparency measure that eases procedural burdens and improves clarity of the process for Member States, civil society, and candidates alike. Furthermore, given the multitude of issues and challenges facing the Organization, not least the ongoing UN80 reform process, the next SG needs to have sufficient time to prepare for the office. So we hope the joint letter will be issued soon. ACT reiterates the importance of interactive hearings of the General Assembly with candidates, which are enriched by the full and meaningful participation of civil society. We also encourage the continuation of a successful town hall held in 2016. The race for the next SG must stretch beyond Turtle Bay. We should not miss an opportunity to enhance public interest and engagement in the work of the UN and its next Secretary-General. AdGrUP also strongly encourages the Security Council to present two or more candidates for the consideration of the GA. and for the President of the General Assembly to consider ways to assess the level of GA support for the candidates throughout the process. This could be done through advisory votes or similar quantifiable mechanisms in order to indicate which candidates the wider membership may support, not support, or have no strong opinion on. This would ensure critical alignment between the two principal UN organs and enhance the complementary roles assigned to both forums in the Charter. Prior to its formal appointment decision, the General Assembly should also hold an additional interactive session with any candidate recommended by the Security Council, ensuring continued engagement with the membership. The resolution 79/327 rightly notes with regret that no woman has ever held the position of UN Secretary-General, and encourages Member States to strongly consider nominating women candidates. ACT strongly supports this call to Member States. After 80 years, we cannot miss the transformative opportunity and show our organization's commitment to gender equality at the highest level. I thank you, President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Estonia on behalf of the ACP Group. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia.

Madam President, Indonesia supports the statements made by Algeria on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement and Malaysia on behalf of the ASEAN countries. For Indonesia, revitalization is a question of purpose. Indonesia envisions a General Assembly that is not only fit for purpose, but also fit for the future. That is why we view the adoption of resolution 79/327 as a meaningful step forward in our shared mission. It reaffirms our conviction that the revitalization of this Assembly lies at the heart of broader UN reforms. The General Assembly must remain the moral compass and center of gravity of multilateralism, where every voice counts and every nation matters. Allow me, Madam President, to highlight three points. First, Indonesia welcomes the establishment of the Working Group on the Strengthening and Revitalization of the General Assembly. This institutional innovation is more than just a structural reform. It ensures that revitalization becomes a living process, dynamic, inclusive, and accountable. By operating on a triennial cycle, the working group brings continuity, coherence, and sense of ownership to the reform process. Secondly, Indonesia commends the stronger provisions in Resolution 79/327 that promotes transparency, integrity, and accountability, particularly in the selection process of the Secretary-General. The resolution codifies clear rules and timelines, one nomination per member state, disclosure of campaign funding, and measures to promote gender parity. Together with the Wisnumurti guidelines of 1996, they emphasize that the UN must embody the values of fairness, openness, and inclusivity. And third, Indonesia welcomes the new culture of discipline and efficiency introduced under this resolution. This includes limiting high-level meetings during high-level week, simplifying resolution adoption and procedures at the plenary, and putting on hold new proposals for international commemorations. These are pragmatic measures that bring coherence and focus to our work. Madam President, the progress embodied in resolution 79/327 resonates with the spirit of the Pact for the Future and the UN80 initiative. calling for a United Nation that is more responsive to present and future challenges. Revitalization is not about doing less, but about doing better. It is about streamlining without sidelining, reforming without fragmenting, and renewing without losing our founding vision. Indonesia remains committed to working with all Member States to ensure that revitalization is not merely a resolution adopted by consensus, but a consensus that delivers. Thank you very much.

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

Thank you, Madam President. The Philippines aligns itself with the statement delivered by Malaysia on behalf of ASEAN. I would now like to speak briefly in my national capacity and offer some other related topics and related points. Given the growing complexity of its agenda, the current financial situation of the United Nations, the evolving needs of Member States, and ongoing efforts to revitalize the General Assembly, a review of the Main Committee's working methods is needed to ensure that the committee's procedures enhance their effective, inclusive, and transparent work in responding to contemporary needs and challenges. Taking into account General Assembly resolution 79/327 on revitalization, some practical measures to improve the GA's working methods include enhancing the efficiency and inclusiveness of the committee's deliberations, strengthening coordination with other bodies, improving the implementation and follow-up of committee outcomes, and rationalizing side events and other similar activities. More specifically, I wish to propose improvements in four areas. One, streamlining the agenda and agenda management, namely, through consensus decisions on measures such as biennial or triennial consideration of selected agenda items, sunset mechanism for agenda items agreed, clustering related topics, and review criteria for the conduct of side events. Two, time management through uniform indicative time limits for interventions, if possible, a uniform time limits for all committees, including the time and number of the exercise of rights of reply. This may require amending parts of the General Assembly rules of procedures and rationalizing the length of presentation of the reports to the main committees by representatives of UN bodies and other agencies. Third, number three, Strengthening bureau functions through enhancing the roles and responsibilities of bureaus, including facilitators and coordinators, and early nomination of coordinators of resolutions and decisions to allow adequate preparation before the session and identifying the issues and agenda items that they will coordinate before the beginning of the work committees. Number four, improving transparency and documentation through developing a digital compendium of working methods and precedents for institutional memory and enhanced information sharing mechanism on the implementation of General Assembly resolutions. On implementation and follow-up of outcomes, the following are proposed or suggested. The adoption of the General Assembly of of a working methods paper or decision for the main committees while it would identify best practices and areas for improvement for the main committees. Establishing a regular, informal, open-ended working group or working methods to implement and work or working methods to review implementation using any agreed working methods decision as basis. And finally, that agreed working methods be implemented by all committees, subject to review and update every year by the General Assembly through the aforementioned informal open-ended working group. Thank you, Madam President.

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

Madam President, at the outset, my delegation associates itself with the statement of Algeria on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. We extend our thanks to the Permanent Representative of South Africa and to the Permanent Representative of Romania for their efforts during the previous session of the GA. Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, amidst multifaceted challenges facing the international system, the role of the United Nations is more important than ever. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia which as a founding member of the organization, attaches great importance to the revitalization of the works of the General Assembly. The GA is the main representative deliberative organ for policymaking in our organization. It is the symbol of multilateralism. The role of the General Assembly is wide and far-reaching. It covers political, security, economic, and social issues. It also covers administrative and financial aspects of the organization. The revitalization of the works of the General Assembly is an important step towards a comprehensive reform of the organization, hence the need for collective, committed, and coordinated efforts that would reflect positively on making the UN more effective and more responsive and inclusive for all. It will also reinforce its ability to address global emerging and complicated challenges. Madam President, GA Resolution 327/79/327 emphasized the important role of the GA, which is the most representative forum of the UN members. It also emphasized the principles of accountability, transparency, and multilateralism. The resolution also called for developing the working methods of the General Assembly and modernizing its tools to go along with current challenges and reinforce coordination between the main UN organs. In this context, my delegation welcomes the mentioning by the resolution of the need to reinforce gender representation in selecting the GA. The appointment of the Secretary-General is done by the GA upon the recommendation of the Security Council. Recent resolutions, including the current resolution, emphasize the need for more transparency and participation in this process. by allowing for all the member states to view the names of the candidates and to organize open debates between the candidates. These new practices, even if they do not change the legal framework provided for by the charter, reinforce the representation of the General Assembly and emphasizes its moral obligation to guarantee that the selection will be transparent and inclusive. Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirms that the revitalization of the works of the GA is the first step towards a broader reform of the organization and contributes to reinforcing the principles of governance, transparency and accountability. It allows for an equal participation of all member states in discussing issues affecting peace, security, and development. Enabling the GA to discharge its full functions reinforces trust in the multilateral system. In this context, we emphasize the importance of complementarity between the roles of different UN organs and promoting coordination between the GA and the Security Council, which, in turn, is a main pillar to achieve coherence in UN decision-making. My country supports efforts aiming at promoting the principle of institutional complementarity and avoiding duplication to reinforce our shared vision and performance. We also consider that UN80 initiative is an important opportunity to unite our efforts and build an organization that is more coordinated and effective in facing global challenges. We also emphasize the need to move forward as member states and collectively with the adoption of measures within practical approaches to achieve our common goal as provided for by the Pact of the Future. It is important to reinforce the role of the General Assembly and to revitalize its works to make it more effective and responsive to global challenges in line with the UN Charter. We emphasize the central role of the General Assembly, which is the most representative organ of the United Nations and the main organ entrusted with policy making. In conclusion, we reaffirm that revitalizing the General Assembly is part and parcel of the ongoing efforts aiming at reinforcing the UN system as a whole to go along with the recent developments and to be more prepared to face the future. We look forward to pursuing our work and to supporting all efforts in this regard. and to preserve the momentum that was achieved and build on this momentum to achieve this important goal and make a greater progress and reach a wider consensus. Thank you, President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia and now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Romania and former co-chair.

Madam President, Romania aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union, and I would like to add a few points. First of all, I'm very glad to witness one of the key deliverables of Resolution 79/3-7, which addresses the long overdue disparities in the translation among the six official languages of the UN on the use of gender-specific pronouns. Amending the rules of procedure to reflect female pronouns was long overdue, and I'm very glad that we can implement already from this 80th session this important decision by member states. Romania is proud to have contributed, together with South Africa, as co-chairs of the ad hoc working group on the revitalization of the General Assembly, to this important development, but also to a few other benchmarks contained in resolution 79/327. Just as we gather to debate on this item for the first time during the 80th session, we already see the preliminary results of the pledges we agreed upon in early September. Now in the peak of the committee season and All the main committees have already started and had their dedicated discussions on the working methods in accordance with operative paragraph 25 of this latest resolution. And you, Madam President, you have been a substantial part of the process, placing the implementation of the mandates on top of your agenda and also amplifying the efforts, amplifying this objective in your formal address at the start of each committee's work. I want to commend the efforts of the chairs and bureaus of the six committees, and we trust this exercise will foster more synergies and simplification in the way we operate, in sync with the broader UN80 reform objectives. I'm also aware that we need to inject more energy in the work of the committees to advance this important objective and to bring it to a meaningful outcome during the session. Madam President, my delegation is fully aligned with your vision of focusing on implementation of our commitments during this session. From working methods to the selection of a Secretary-General, the strength and impact of the mandates contained in 79/27 lay in creating the premises for their full and non-discretionary implementation. We are pleased to note the negotiations on the joint letter of the presidencies of the General Assembly and the Security Council are underway. We trust that both entities will make best use of the clearer and more structured steps for the Secretary-General selection process codified in OP 42, and we look forward to the formal kickstart of the process. Of course, the resolution states very clearly that the process should start in the last quarter of the year. I want to note that we are in the middle of this quarter and the process hasn't formally started, and I hope that we will see results soon on this part of the process as well. We are pleased to see member states are guided by the strong appeal to nominate women candidates as a first meaningful step for ensuring equality of chances in the lead up to the formal selection and appointment process for the next Secretary General. Madam President, the working group has been working for the past two sessions on refining the membership's approach to mandate delivery and mandate review. which is extremely timely in the context of the ongoing UN80 reform debates. We are pleased to see that several mitigation measures contained in Resolution 179327, particularly on the periodicity of resolutions and the overcrowding of the General Assembly agenda, represent a baseline for the ongoing discussions under UN80. We are encouraged by the several steps ahead we achieved through this resolution, and we hope the same constructive spirit and meaningful engagement among delegations will accompany the way forward in the UN80 reform process. On this particular note, it is worth recalling that we are not starting from scratch. The recently adopted resolution has established generally applicable criteria for resolutions adopted by this body, guided by the principle of the perennial nature of mandates of such resolutions until their operational scope has been fully implemented. and conveying a strong call to member states for reducing the number, length, and frequency based on an individual assessment against this criteria by each member state or group of member states applicable from the 81st session. Among the concrete decisions that we have undertaken in early September, I want to highlight that we have decided to limit to a maximum of three high-level meetings on the margins of the high-level week applicable from the 81st session. We also have a simplified mechanism that was mentioned by some colleagues, the one-gavel approach, not to repeat the procedure in adopting resolutions in the main committees, the plenary. But we also have a moratorium on international days and weeks and months during the 81st and 82nd session. And of course, you are all familiar with these decisions that we have undertaken, it's important to start implementing them in good faith. To conclude, Madam President, Romania will continue to be an active contributor to all efforts and in all fora aimed at successfully adapting this organization to meet the multifaceted challenges of today's multilateral architecture. And we remain committed to your efforts, Madam President, in ensuring that we Member States fulfill the commitments we have undertaken. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Romania. We have heard the last speaker in the debate on these items for this meeting. We shall hear the remaining speaker this afternoon at 3 p.m. in this hall. The meeting is until then adjourned.