Second Committee, 10th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 81st session
General Assembly
Date: 9 October 2026
Language: English
Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/ga/c2/81/10
Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations.

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2nd Committee · Chair [0:05]:

Distinguished colleagues, good afternoon. With apologies for the slightly delayed start, we were just waiting for enough delegations to arrive to the room who had expressed an intention to speak. The 10th meeting of the Second Committee is called to order. Item 14, information and communications technologies for sustainable development, and item 19, globalization and interdependence, and sub-items A and B. I now invite the Committee to continue and conclude its joint discussion of agenda item 14, information and communications technologies for sustainable development, and 19, globalization and interdependence, and its sub-items A and B. Before we proceed, I would like to remind delegations that the agreed time limits for statements during the joint consideration of agenda items are three minutes for national statements and statements by intergovernmental organizations and the UN system. The list of speakers has been prepared on this basis, and I intend to implement the time limit strictly, including as necessary through automatic microphone cutoff after the allotted time has elapsed. I now call the first speaker on my list, the distinguished representative of Costa Rica.


Costa Rica [1:31]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Mr. Chair, digital transformation offers extraordinary opportunities to accelerate sustainable development. However, its benefits are still distributed unequally. While artificial intelligence and other frontier technologies are making rapid progress, 2.6 billion people are still not online. They're still not connected to the internet, according to data from the ITU. Please allow me to refer to the following. First, we must close digital gaps. Connectivity Significant connectivity requires reliable infrastructure, accessible services and devices, as well as skills and digital literacy. These gaps particularly affect developing countries and can actually entrench existing inequalities. Costa Rica launches an appeal to strengthen international cooperation, financing and technology transfer in order to ensure that the digital transformation can indeed contribute to fulfilling the SDG goals. Secondly, we must ensure that the human rights of women, children and youth are equally protected in both digital and physical spaces. Technological innovation must be coupled with transparency, accountability, data protection and safeguards for people in a situation of vulnerability. Thirdly, we must strengthen inclusive and multilateral digital governance. The unbridled development of artificial intelligence requires the effective participation of states, civil society, academia, the private sector, and other relevant stakeholders. Costa Rica wishes to reiterate its support to the process Mandated by resolution 79325, the panel of experts and the co-chairs of the first global dialogue on artificial intelligence, and we launched an appeal to avoid redundancies and duplication in the mandate of the organization to hold an inclusive intergovernmental discussion on the opportunities, risks, and impacts of artificial intelligence. Fourth, we must anticipate the challenges of agentic artificial intelligence. Systems that are able to plan and conduct tasks autonomously can improve services, public services, productivity, and are responsive to incidents, but they also increase the potential of attacks. They automize threats and dilute accountability. Therefore, cybersecurity must be included from the very beginning, the design with meaningful human supervision, natural response capacity to incidents, and international cooperation to strengthen them. The results of WSIS+20 provide an opportunity to renew our commitment to... The speaker's microphone was cut off.


2nd Committee · Chair [4:33]:

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


Bangladesh [4:41]:

Mr. Chair, Bangladesh aligns itself with the statements by the G77 and China and the LDC group. Globalization has brought our economies closer, offering prospects for shared prosperity. But it also links our vulnerabilities. Effects of climate shocks, conflicts, and disruptions to food and energy supplies cross borders quickly. Unequal access to finance compounds these challenges for developing countries. As such, there is no alternative to a stronger international cooperation and fairer global economic governance if we are to address these challenges. Migration is the human face of interdependence. Migrants contribute to economies in both countries of origin and destination. Sadly, many of them face exploitation, discrimination, excessive recruitment and remittance costs, and rising anti-migrant narratives. We need a rights-based approach that protects their dignity and well-being and ensure access to justice. Bangladesh is a GCM champion country. We have adopted a national action plan for 2026 to 2030. Our government is strengthening skills certification, expanding overseas employment opportunities, and improving migrant welfare. We call for closer cooperation among origin, transit, and destination countries to expand safe, orderly, and regular migration and to turn this year's IMRF commitments into action on the ground. Mr. Chair, ICTs offer another example of shared opportunities and unequal benefits. AI and emerging technologies hold immense promise, but their benefits remain concentrated in the hands of a few. High costs of devices and data, inadequate digital skills, and online safety concerns further widen the divide. The UNCTAD report presented this morning shows that closing gender digital divide could unlock up to US$1.5 trillion in global GDP. Meanwhile, AI-related job displacement could disproportionately affect women, further widening gender inequality. Technological progress builds on generations of shared human knowledge. Its benefits should be shared more fairly too. Ahead of next May's global dialogue on AI governance, we must turn this principle into tangible action points. As our Prime Minister, Tariq Rahman, stressed during the General Assembly's high level week, we do not want today's digital divide to become tomorrow's artificial intelligence divide. For developing countries, this means access to financing, technology transfer and digital skills, computing power and data alongside an equal voice in AI governance and gender responsive safeguards. I thank you, Mr. Chair.


2nd Committee · Chair [7:30]:

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


Dominican Republic [7:42]:

Thank you, Chairman. My delegation aligns itself with the statement made by Uruguay on behalf of the G77 and China. In a context where economic and technological independence determine our involvement in global value chains, we reaffirm that ICTs are fundamental for accelerating the achievement of the SDGs and promoting social inclusion, innovation, and competitiveness. However, the equal distribution of their benefits require policies that can overcome the different gaps and capacity gaps. The Dominican Republic, Chairman, is implementing its 2030 digital agenda, our national AI strategy, promoting ethical, safe and transparent human rights based artificial intelligence governance, including through our partnership signed up to with Nvidia. The 2026 update of the National Cybersecurity Index places our country 143rd globally, reflecting concrete progress made in the protection of our digital environments. Chairman, we are in favor of universal connectivity that goes beyond mere access to the Internet through the improving connectivity program of the Dominican government. We are improving fiber optic connection, including to unserved rural areas. And on this basis, with infrastructure and institutional interoperability, We are facilitating the inclusion of MSMEs in international trade through electronic phytosanitary certification and tariff tools online. An international system that is conducive to development requires developing countries to be able to participate in the definition of the rules and standards of technology. Overcoming the digital gap requires us meeting the accessibility challenges of services and for devices too. Economic and territorial disparities need to be overcome, as well as boosting digital skills. That's why we call upon the international community to accelerate technology transfer, financing and capacity building, particularly to benefit developing countries, ensuring that public digital goods are accessible to all. We reaffirm our commitment to a inclusive, safe and sustainable digital transformation focused on the well-being of our populations. Thank you very much.


2nd Committee · Chair [10:34]:

I thank the representative of Dominican Republic for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Vietnam.


Viet Nam [10:42]:

Mr. Che, Vietnam allies itself with the statement of the Group of 77 and China and ASEAN. Digital transformation is an important enabler of the SDGs. while also reshaping globalizations and deepening the interdependence of our economies and societies. Yet, persistent digital divide and rapid technological advances, particularly in artificial intelligence, are creating new development and governance challenges. We must therefore promote a safe, secure, trustworthy, inclusive, and human-centered digital transformation that benefits all. In this context, Vietnam was honored to host host in Hanoi in October 2025, the opening for signature of the UN Convention against Cybercrime, marking an important milestone toward a safer and more secure digital environment. In this regard, we'd like to highlight three priorities. First, we must invest in secure and affordable digital infrastructure and strengthen digital skills. particularly in developing countries, including through technology transfer, capacity building, and financial support to ensure that no one is left behind. Second, we must harness science, technology, and innovation, including AI, for sustainable development. Vietnam has identified science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation as key drivers of our development and is advancing strategic technologies, including AI and semiconductor. We welcome the establishment of the independent international scientific panel on AI and the global dialogue on AI governance, and we will contribute to inclusive and development-oriented global AI cooperation. Third, we must translate international digital commitments into action. Vietnam is implementing its national digital transformation strategy for 2026-2030 with orientation to 2045. while advancing implementation of the global digital compact. Through international cooperation, we will continue contributing to bridging digital divide, building capacities, and expanding opportunities for developing countries. Vietnam stand ready to work with all partners to ensure that technological progress translate into inclusive and sustainable development and greater well-being for all. I thank you, Mr. Chair.


2nd Committee · Chair [13:09]:

I thank the representative of Vietnam for her statement. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran.


Iran (Islamic Republic of) [13:21]:

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim. Mr. Chair, my delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of G77 and China. Science, technology, and innovation are essential drivers of sustainable development. The Secretary-General's report highlights widening technological divide, the concentration of technological advances in a few companies and countries, and financing constraints that hinder digital development, particularly in least developed countries and small island developing countries. Developing countries continue to face significant challenges, including inadequate digital infrastructure, limited financing, and barriers to accessing technological and skills. Addressing these challenges requires stronger international cooperation, adequate and predictable financing, effective technology transfer, and sustainable capacity building. In line with Xavier's commitment, support must respond to national priorities and strengthening developing countries' scientific, technological, and productive capacities. Mr. Chair, following the adoption of WSIS 20-year review outcome in December 2025, the priority must be effective implementation. Commitments must translate into practical support and measurable progress in bridging digital divides. Implementation of WSIS outcomes and Global Digital Compact should be coherent, development-oriented, and responsive to developing countries' needs. Enhanced cooperation on international public policy issues pertaining to the Internet remains essential. All states must participate on an equal footing in global digital governance with respect for national sovereignty and their respective roles and responsibilities. Developing countries also need equitable access to information and communication technologies, emerging technologies, digital infrastructure, computing resources, skills to benefit from artificial intelligence and fostering local innovation. Private sector actors must respect applicable domestic laws, avoid monopolistic practices, and remain accountable for their activities. The Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates its opposition to unilateral coercive measures restricting access to technology, financing, digital services, and scientific cooperation. In closing, We reaffirm our commitment to multilateralism with the United Nations at the center and development at its core. Through inclusive cooperation and genuine partnership, technology progress can benefit all countries and people. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [16:20]:

I thank the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Republic of Tanzania.


United Republic of Tanzania [16:32]:

Chairman, the United Republic of Tanzania aligns itself with the statement made by G77 and China and LDCs. We wish to add the following remarks in our national capacity. We are honored to address the Second Committee under the item 14. And Tanzania views that ICT as a strategic enabler of economic transformation, social inclusion, and effective public delivery must be accessible to all. The Agenda is anchored in the conviction that digital technology should and must remain public goods. They must serve people, strengthen national capacities, and advance sustainable development. In this regard, we wish to highlight five priority areas for cooperation. Number one, we need to democratize digital public infrastructure, DPIs, because they are foundation for inclusive digital transformation. They should not be a privilege of those who can afford to access them. Through our national initiative, Jamii Taka in Tanzania, we are advancing interoperable, secure, and citizen-centric digital systems that support digital identity, data exchange, digital payments, and effective public service delivery. We believe DPI should remain a global public good, accessible to all countries. Second, Tanzania emphasizes data governance and digital trust as essential pillars of sustainable digital development. Responsible data use, grounded in privacy, security, accountability, and national sovereignty, It's critical for building public confidence, enabling safe digital innovation. We therefore call for strengthened international cooperation to support national capacities in data governance. Third, we should not repeat the story of divides. There should be no AI divide. Tanzania supports a responsive, inclusive, and development-oriented approach to artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. AI must be governed ethically, deployed safely, and made accessible to developing countries. We highlight ongoing efforts to promote local innovation, including the development of Swahili large language models, which aims to ensure that AI benefits are equitable, shared, and linguistically inclusive. Fourth, connectivity alone is not enough. Affordability, digital skills, accessibility, local content, and meaningful use are essential to ensure that youth, women, SMEs and underserved communities fully participate in the digital economy. We therefore stress on the need for digital inclusion and capacity building. South-South cooperation remains a vital pathway for building shared digital prosperity. Tanzania calls for strengthened international cooperation, financing, knowledge sharing, and technology transfer. Developing countries must not remain mere consumers of technology. We must be empowered to develop, govern, and benefit from our own digital capabilities. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [19:15]:

I thank the representative of the United Republic of Tanzania, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Haiti.


Haiti [19:25]:

Mr. Chairman, my delegation thanks the Secretary-General for his report on this item. For Haiti, this is a crucial issue. Our compatriots have been contributing to national economic development and the prosperity of host countries, but this can't be reduced to a simple issue of economics. All of us could be migrants at any time, especially in the current time marked by conflicts, global warming, and crises where no one is safe from maybe having to leave their home to build back elsewhere. This is a common vulnerability, and it calls for our solidarity. Mr. Chairman, the growing mobility of qualified professionals from LDCs toward developed economies draws our attention. Targeted recruitment policies are a legitimate response to the needs of labor markets. However, this undermines the sustainability of development in countries of origin. This happens through the drain of those brains that are vital to their economic, institutional, and social development. It is disturbing to admit that roughly 60% of the active population of my country is abroad, and there are sectors like agriculture and construction that suffer from it. Thus, the need to promote mutually beneficial partnerships. What's more, in 2025, the Haitian diaspora transferred more than $4.9 billion U.S. to Haiti. That represents around 16.9% of our GDP. This money directly supports households and fuels significantly our economy. And this regard, we thank those countries that have provided work opportunities, and we express our concern at the situation of many of our compatriots that face persistent challenges in certain contexts and in host countries at a particularly trying time for Haiti. My country reaffirms its commitment to the Global Compact on Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration, and we are working to document our residents in order to respect sovereign rights and the migratory principles of host countries. Haiti also calls for strengthening international cooperation to better appreciate the contribution of diasporas to sustainable development. Nonetheless, genuine success of our migratory policies will be gauged by our collective capacity to make migration a choice rather than a necessity. For LDCs, migration issues thus cannot be teased apart from development challenges, because when people have genuine prospects for a future in their homes, then mobility becomes an act of freedom rather than a response to desperation. Thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [22:07]:

I thank the representative of Haiti, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.


Japan [22:17]:

Thank you, Chair. Japan recognizes that ICT and digital technologies are indispensable to accelerating solutions to environmental and societal challenges in achieving the SDGs. From this perspective, it is important to explore international cooperation through discussions on the ICT agenda. Thanks to the collective efforts of all the member states on the revitalization of the second committee, we have jointly achieved an outcome containing tangible and substantive measures, including the biannualization of a resolution on the agenda item 14. We particularly thank the G77 for implementing the agreed measures in good faith. This will allow us to focus more on substantive discussion within our limited time and capacity. Despite this shared commitment, a new draft resolution entitled Supporting the Functioning of an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and Global Dialogue on AI Governance has been proposed. On AI, the General Assembly adopted the Global Digital Compact by consensus in 2024. It decided to establish the independent scientific panel and the Global Dialogue. In 2025, another General Assembly resolution was adopted by consensus, setting out the terms of reference and modalities. Pursuant to these mandates, the first Global Dialogue was held in July this year. The second dialogue is scheduled for May 2027, and after the second day of intergovernmental consultation will also be held. In addition, pursuant to the Global Digital Compact, a high-level review of the Compact will be convened during the 82nd session of the General Assembly. In light of these ongoing processes grounded in consensus, we are deeply concerned that the newly proposed draft resolution simply duplicates the existing mandates and timelines and may risk undermining the consensus underpinning them. This would also be inconsistent with the principles set out in the General Assembly resolution adopted this March on mandate life cycle. Chair, Japan is committed to a more focused, efficient, and impactful Second Committee. To that end, we look forward to working closely and constructively with all member states. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [24:34]:

I thank the representative of Japan for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia.


Colombia [24:41]:

Thank you, Chair. Colombia sees in digital technologies an opportunity to boost sustainable development, to create value, and to open up new possibilities for all people in all regions. We recognize that we still have challenges in access. devices and accessibility, but we're convinced that the digital gap is not only defined by who has access to technology, but rather who uses it to produce value. That's why we are in favor of new connectivity, the connectivity of the future that is not just restricted to coverage, but rather includes quality, speed, stability, availability of devices, digital skills, productivity, and accessibility. We want to overcome the paradox of only measuring connectivity to focus on what really matters. which are the opportunities and the value that technology can produce. With this vision, the ICT Ministry 2026 to 2030 plan rather is structured around five pillars, connecting, providing skills, producing, protecting, and transforming so that technology is a real tool of national development. Chair, Colombia understands artificial intelligence as a technology that can help to achieve our general goals, whose value is measured in the productivity gains it can achieve and boosting productive processes, logistics and trade. We want it to be a true driving force for inclusive productivity, who benefits reach Mismis, entrepreneurs, people and the different regions. And that's why public private partnerships must strengthen infrastructure, talent applied research, technology transfer and access to markets. We want to be an active part of the production chain of artificial intelligence, not just a user. And that's why we're promoting investment and building of data centers. And we believe that cooperation must bring countries that are developing these countries together with ones that aren't yet doing it so that they can adopt it and be able to participate in their production. This requires talent strengthening basic digital skills, intermediate and advanced ones in artificial intelligence, data centers, programming and cybersecurity to close the digital gap and the specialized talent gap also improving employability and drafting entrepreneurship. Safe and reliable artificial intelligence requires governance based on rights and focused on people with transparency, accountability, human supervision. We reiterate our commitment to the Global Digital Compact and to the implementation of resolution 79325 in line with the modalities and the sequence agreed on for its implementation and follow-up and we trust that this process will advance as agreed and that each of its phases will help to achieve its goals. Thank you very much, Chair.


Zambia [27:35]:

Thank you, Chairperson.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Zambia aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the G77 and China, the Africa Group, and the least developed countries. Globalization has expanded opportunities for trade, investment, and knowledge sharing, but its benefits remain unevenly distributed. Rapid technological change and fragmentation risk deepening inequalities. Global interdependence must support inclusive development, structural transformation, and greater participation by developing countries in the global economy. For Zambia, this means connecting global opportunities to nationally owned priorities, such as increasing value addition, strengthening productive capacities, and creating decent jobs. International cooperation must complement domestic efforts, enabling countries to retain greater value from their resources and innovation. Chairperson, science, technology, innovations, and AI can accelerate implementation of national development strategies. Meaningful connectivity requires reliable electricity, affordable broadband, appropriate devices, digital skills, and online safety, particularly in rural and underserved communities. But connectivity must also build domestic capacity to generate, adopt, adapt, apply technology. Developing countries must participate as researchers, innovators, and creators. Zambia calls for sustained financing, technology transfer on mutually agreed terms, and investment in STEM education, research, and institutional capacity. Public and private partnerships alongside south-to-south and triangular cooperation can strengthen innovation, ecosystems, and translate technology priorities into productive enterprise and jobs. We reaffirm our support to a UN Technology Bank for LDCs in advancing this work. We call for targeted AI capacity building, broader access to computing infrastructure, data, and skills. These efforts must require, they require inclusive development-oriented governance with meaningful participation by developing countries, implementation of the GDC, WSIS outcomes, therefore, should reinforce one another, promoting innovation, protecting human rights, and building trust. Chairperson, the UN must help ensure that globalization advances equitable, sustainable development, more representative global economic governance, and stronger cooperation. Our collective responsibility is to translate global interdependence into greater productivity, decent work, and better lives. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [30:32]:

I thank the representative of Zambia for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kiribati.


Kiribati [30:42]:

Thank you, Mr. President. As this is Kiribati's first time to take the floor in this committee, we wish to commend you for your leadership and assure you of our full support. Kiribati aligns itself with the statements by G77 and China and LDCs. We take note of the reports presented under the agenda items and the important issues they raise regarding the role of technology and global economic cooperation in advancing sustainable development. While progress continues to be made, significant gaps remain in access to digital infrastructure, affordable connectivity, technological capacity, and financing. For Kiribati, addressing these gaps is particularly important, given the additional constraints imposed by our remoteness and geographic dispersion, the cost of infrastructure and essential service delivery. In this context, information and communications technologies are critical to advancing our sustainable development and overcoming the disadvantages of geographic isolation. Reliable and affordable connectivity can expand access to education, healthcare, financial services, and critical public services, while strengthening early warning systems, disaster preparedness, and access to climate information. Guided by our digital government master plan, we are working to strengthen connectivity, digital identity, and institutional capacity. These priorities are also reflected in Kiribati's second VNR presented in July this year, which underscores our commitments to resilience, inclusive development, and expanding digital connectivity towards a more sustainable and connected future. However, the digital divide must not become an artificial intelligence divide. we need infrastructure, skills, and resources not only to use emerging technologies, but also to shape their development and application. Meaningful participation in the global economy requires affordable digital connectivity, accessible financing, technology transfer, great opportunities for innovation, and international cooperation that enables countries facing structural disadvantages to benefit from technological progress and participate more equitably in the global economy. Thank you, Mr. Chair.


2nd Committee · Chair [33:14]:

I thank the representative of Kiribati for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.


United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland [33:25]:

Thank you, Chair. We will use our time to address the draft resolution entitled Supporting the Functioning of the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and the Global Dialogue on AI Governance. The UK welcomes the strong start made by the scientific panel and the global dialogue. Its Geneva meeting identified priorities we share, closing the AI divide, building capacity, and protecting linguistic and cultural diversity. These are exactly the discussions the dialogue was created to hold. We also recall how these bodies came about. They rest on a carefully negotiated consensus, an independent panel, a dialogue for discussing governance and a review of the GDC next year to take stock. The draft before this committee departs from that agreement in three ways. First, it tells the panel where to look. It steers the panel towards particular issues at the expense of others. The panel exists to assess independently. Once government set its direction, it loses the neutrality that makes it valuable to us all and above all, to countries without a large research base of their own. Second, it opens a new track. consultations on common understandings sit with the dialogue co-chairs, and the GDC review follows. The draft adds an agenda item that was never agreed and would not have been. The approach also runs against the revitalisation decision that the committee adopted, in which we committed to restraint on new resolutions and to avoiding duplication. Third, it gets ahead of us. It selectively picks passages from a co-chair's summary that was never negotiated and asks this assembly to endorse them before either body has completed a cycle. If one delegation can do that here, others can select different passages elsewhere. That is how a shared process fragments and confidence in consensus suffers with it. This assembly built the dialogue and panel together by consensus. That is no small achievement, and it belongs to all of us. This draft puts it at risk for no gain the dialogue and review cannot offer. The United Kingdom, therefore, cannot support this draft as it stands. We will champion these priorities where we agreed they belong in the dialogue and in next year's review, and we look forward to working with all delegations there. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [35:35]:

I thank the representative of the United Kingdom for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Rwanda.


Rwanda [35:44]:

Thank you for giving me the floor. Rwanda aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the G77 and China, as well as the LDCs, and wishes to make the following remarks in our national capacity. Chair, in Rwanda, we believe in the power that information and communication technologies hold to advance our development ambitions. Under Vision 2050 and our second national strategy for transformation, we are investing in digital infrastructure that truly transforms by creating economic opportunities and improving access to social services. Our national artificial intelligence policy is an ambitious governance framework that aims to promote responsible AI adoption to strengthen local capabilities and to harness emerging technologies that help address development challenges. Chair, We recognize the immense power that technological power has, and no country can realize the full potential of digital transformation in isolation. Rwanda is working with partner countries to share knowledge and practical experience. Guinea's launch of Etelemo, its national e-procurement platform, in collaboration with Rwanda's E-Rembo platform, offers a practical example of South-South cooperation. Such partnerships can help turn shared ambitions into practical progress. Chair, the Global Digital Compact as well as the Wises Plus 20 offer us an agreed framework to help advance these ambitions. What is needed now is timely implementation. We call on Member States and the UN development system to fulfill their respective commitments to bridge digital divides, facilitate technology transfer, strengthen AI capacity building, and ensure equal and meaningful representation in AI governance. For landlocked developing countries, these commitments must also translate into tangible support to overcome structural barriers and participate meaningfully in the global digital economy. Our collective responsibility is to ensure that technological progress translates into shared development rather than deeper inequalities. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [37:57]:

I thank the representative of Rwanda for his statement. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Georgia.


Georgia [38:06]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Georgia is committed to ensuring universal, affordable, and meaningful digital connectivity, leaving no one behind. So our state project, Login in Georgia, we are expanding high-speed broadband access in rural and underserved areas while strengthening digital skills and enabling citizens to participate more fully in the digital economy. Our digital economy and information society strategy 2025, 2030 adopted in 2025 provides a roadmap for this transformation aligned with the European Union's digital priorities. Our ambition extends beyond national connectivity. Georgia is positioning itself as a digital bridge between Europe and Asia. Work is advancing on the development of regional digital hub, including the construction of a submarine fiber optic cable across the Black Sea and the establishment of hyperscale data centers. These investments will expand Georgia's data processing capacity, diversify international digital roads, strengthen connectivity and resilience, attract investments, and create new opportunities for innovation and growth in the digital economy. However, digital transformation must be inclusive, secure, and responsible. In line with the principles of leaving no one behind, developing countries and smaller states must have a meaningful voice in shaping global rules and standards for ethical, transparent, and accountable AI governance, ensuring that its benefits are shared fairly and risks such as bias and occlusions are Cybersecurity is equally essential. As cyber threats became increasingly sophisticated, no country can tackle them alone. International cooperation, information sharing, and collective capacity building are indispensable. At the national level, Georgia is implementing its Cybersecurity Awareness Strategy 2025-2030, adopted in 2025, including through awareness campaigns and digital security training for civil servants, journalists, students, and the wider public. Mr. Chair, Georgia believes that digital transformation is not simply about connecting people or building infrastructure. It's about expanding opportunity, strengthening resilience, and ensuring that technology serves humanity. We will continue working with the United Nations, international financial institutions, and development partners to bridge digital divide, strengthen cybersecurity, and promote responsible technological innovation. Our objective is clear, a digitally connected world in which every country can contribute, every citizen can benefit, and no one is left behind. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [40:58]:

I thank the representative of Georgia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Holy See.


Holy See [41:08]:

Chair, my delegation welcomes this discussion as an opportunity to reaffirm that technology can become an instrument of growth, justice, and fraternity. Information and communication technologies have already increased access to knowledge, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities for many people. And they have the potential to further accelerate progress towards achieving sustainable development, particularly regarding eradicating poverty. When used to serve the human person, technology can truly promote integral human development. However, this potential is not equally shared. The digital divide persists, both between and within countries. Data shows that 2.2 billion people are still not connected to the internet, most of whom live in low and middle income countries. Artificial intelligence adds another new dimension to this reality. While its potential to serve integral human development is considerable, so too are the risks of a new divide. As Pope Leo XIV notes in Magnifica Humanitas, in a context where the wealth of nations depends increasingly on knowledge and technology, when these goods remain concentrated in the hands of a few, without adequate forms of sharing and access, a new imbalance is created that contradicts the universal destination of goods. It is therefore vital to increase international cooperation including capacity building and technology transfer in order to bridge the current digital divide. Such cooperation must be accompanied by sustained investments in education and digital literacy. The ability to use ICTs critically, safely, and productively is what transforms access into opportunity, particularly for younger generations. Having universal access to technology is not enough without the necessary education needed to use it. Mr. Chair, harnessing ICT's potential for sustainable development requires taking seriously not only the technical and economic dimensions of this progress, but also its social, ethical, and cultural implications. Only then can technology become an instrument of growth, justice, and fraternity. Thank you, Mr. Chair.


2nd Committee · Chair [43:39]:

I thank the representative of the Holy See. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.


IFRC [43:52]:

Mr. Chair, in our increasingly interconnected world, migration is a normal human phenomenon, as it has been throughout history. Yet the forces shaping people's decisions to move are becoming more complex. Across the IFRC and our 191 national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies, We see how disasters, climate change, conflict, and economic pressures compound, eroding the conditions that allow people to remain safely in their communities. When safe and regular pathways are unavailable, people may take dangerous routes, exposing themselves to exploitation, violence, and death. At the IMRF in May, the IFRC delivered a clear message. Migrant deaths along migration routes are increasing, and they are unacceptable and preventable. We welcome to the forum's commitment to operationalize the UN Security General's recommendation on saving migrant lives and advancing route based cooperation. Mr. Chair, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement has developed a global migration strategy grounded in a route based approach and recently launched its global migration and displacement platform. We urge member states to take the same holistic approach, strengthening the strengthening cooperation across countries and along the entire migration journey, from building resilience in communities of origin to protecting and assisting people across dangerous routes and promoting inclusion and stability in communities of destination. First, in communities of origin, we must strengthen resilience to the social, economic, and environmental pressures driving migration and displacement. Our national societies help communities prepare for, withstand, and recover from shocks, reducing vulnerability and ensuring people have alternatives and the agency to decide what is best for them. This includes investing in early warning and early action to reduce disaster and displacement risks, not to control migration, but to strengthen resilience. Second, along migration routes, we must strengthen protection and access to essential services regardless of legal status. Beyond direct humanitarian assistance, this means addressing legal, administrative, and practical barriers to healthcare, shelter, water, sanitation, and protection. Through their extensive local presence and humanitarian service points, national societies provide lifesaving assistance, information, and referrals to essential services based on needs alone. Third, in communities of destination, we must foster inclusion and create opportunities for migrants to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. This requires addressing barriers to employment, education, housing, and essential services while promoting social connections, mutual understanding, and cohesion between migrants and host communities. Migrants must be recognized not merely as recipients of assistance, but as people with skills, aspirations, and capabilities who should meaningfully participate in decisions affecting their lives. Mr. Chair, migration and development are not separate issues. People move in search of safety, dignity, and opportunities that sustainable development should make possible. By strengthening resilience, protecting people across their journeys, and supporting inclusion in destination communities, we are investing in sustainable development itself. Thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [46:48]:

I thank the representative of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.


UNIDO [47:04]:

Thank you, Chair. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, it is an honor to deliver this statement today on behalf of UNIDO. Globalization has created important opportunities for trade, investment, technological progress, job creation, and economic development. Yet its benefits have not been evenly distributed, as the reports of the Secretary General affirm. Many developing countries continue to face constraints in building productive capacities, diversifying their economies, and capturing greater value along global value chains. Around 2.2 billion people remain offline, with persistent gaps in digital infrastructure, affordability and skills, particularly in developing countries. At the same time, globalization is being reshaped by rapid technological change. Digital technologies and AI are transforming production, trade and employment, while industrial automation remains concentrated in advanced economies. In developing countries, gaps in digital infrastructure, connectivity, and skills can constrain businesses to seize opportunities in a globalized economy and workers' ability to adapt to changing job requirements. Divergent national approaches and uncoordinated responses to AI are creating a more fragmented policy environment with implications for interoperability, international collaboration, and trust. Recent shocks have also highlighted vulnerabilities across global value chains. Geopolitical tensions, climate change, energy disruptions, technological shifts, and the prospect of reshoring are changing how companies and countries think about resilience. Resilience, however, should not mean retreating from globalization. We need fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable globalization supported by investment in productive capacities, technology, skills, and infrastructure to ensure that developing countries can fully participate in and benefit from globalization. Stronger international and multilateral cooperation, including through the Pact for the Future, the Seville Commitment, and the Doha Political Declaration, are therefore central to ensure that every country can participate meaningfully in fast-evolving global markets. Ladies and gentlemen, this also applies to the growing landscape of sustainability standards and requirements. Increasing fragmentation of regulatory standards frameworks can raise costs, reduce interoperability, and make it harder to compare and trust sustainability performance across borders. UNIDO is working to address this challenge through the Blue Button, an initiative to foster greater alignment and simplification of sustainability standards and provide a common reference framework for more comparable and credible company sustainability performance across value chains. Together with our UN partners, the objective is not to create another layer of requirements, but to help companies, buyers, and investors to make better informed decisions while strengthening sustainable and resilient supply chains. UNIDO looks forward to continuing to work with all of you through concrete solutions on the ground. Please count on our full support. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [50:02]:

I thank the representative of the UN Industrial Development Organization for her statement. Distinguished delegates, we have heard the last speaker on the list for the general discussion of items 14 and 19. The committee has thus concluded the joint general discussion of these agenda items. I wish to recall that the submission deadline for draft proposals under items 14 and 19 00 p.m. on Tuesday, the 13th of October. The exercise of the right of reply has been requested. in accordance with rule 114 of the Rules of Procedure of the General Assembly. I should like to remind delegations that the number of interventions in exercise of the right of reply for any delegation at a given meeting should be limited to two per item. The first intervention should be limited to three minutes and the second to two minutes. For the first intervention, I give the floor to the representative of Latvia.


Latvia · Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia [51:06]:

Thank you, Chair. I'm taking the floor on behalf of Estonia, Lithuania, and my own country, Latvia, to exercise the right of reply in reaction to the statement by Belarus. We would like to shed light on how Belarus is weaponizing migration and waging hybrid attacks on its neighbors. For more than five years, Latvia and Lithuania have been exposed to deliberate instrumentalization of migrants by Belarus to undermine our territorial integrity and national security. The Belarus regime is escalating its hybrid campaign. This year alone, Latvia has prevented around 12,000 illegal crossings. This week, on 5th and 6th October, the National Armed Forces of Latvia encountered deliberate and organised facilitation of illegal migrants from Belarus. A group of at least 20 migrants, escorted by masked individuals, attempted to illegally cross Latvia's border. Latvian national armed forces prevented the attempted crossing. Similar cases take place across other EU external borders with Belarus. Let me underline that protecting our external borders is our European responsibility. Colleagues, this is what instrumentalisation of migration by Belarus looks like. We condemn the deliberate exploitation of vulnerable people by Belarus to exert political and physical pressure on its neighboring states and the European Union. The Lukashenko regime cynically exploits thousands of vulnerable people from Africa, the Middle East and Asia, luring them to Belarus and facilitating their dangerous journey to Europe. Belarus' actions openly disregard the international human rights order and facilitate that these people become victims of exploitation, trafficking, and smuggling. Lithuania has also brought proceedings against Belarus before the International Court of Justice concerning the alleged breaches by Belarus of the protocol against smuggling of migrants. We call on Belarus to end these practices and respect its obligations under international law. And we encourage all UN member states to join this call. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [53:22]:

I thank the representative of Latvia for his statement. The committee will now resume its consideration of agenda item 18, follow up to the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and the strengthening of the United Nations Human Settlements Program, UN-Habitat, and item 20, groups of countries in special situations. in order to hear the remaining speakers in the joint general discussion. I now give the floor to the first speaker on my list, the distinguished representative of Ukraine. You have the floor.


Ukraine [54:00]:

Mr. Chair, when I arrived in New York three weeks ago, I visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art. There, in Gallery 800, hangs Red Sunset by Arhip Kuinji, a painter born in Mariupol. Its label reads, in March 2022, the Kuinji Art Museum in Mariupol was destroyed by a Russian airstrike. A sketch of this very painting was taken from Mariupol. The painting itself survived because it was far away. The city where its painter was born did not. Mariupol was once a model of what the new urban agenda promises. After 2014, just kilometers from the front line, it invested in modern transport, clean water systems, public spaces. Today, most of it lies in ruins. Ukrainian cities such as Bakhmut, Volnovakha, Chasiv Yar, Avdiivka have been wiped from the map. Around 14% of Ukraine's housing stock has been damaged or destroyed, affecting more than 3 million households. Even our world heritage is not spared. Kiev, Lviv, historic center of Odessa are on UNESCO's list of world heritage in danger. This is the deliberate destruction of the very first thing the agenda exists to protect. Yet Ukrainian cities keep rebuilding, often while still under fire. Irpin and Borodanka, devastated in 2022, have rebuilt homes, schools, bridges. In Kharkiv, children study in schools built underground. Through the national e-recovery program, families who lost their homes receive compensation to rebuild them. We are deeply grateful to our partners. Every year since 2002, a different country hosts the Ukraine Recovery Conference, most recently Poland in Gdansk. We thank UNHABITAT for its support in restoring housing and municipal services, UNICEF and other partners for helping to restore water supply, heating, safe learning spaces for children. Mr. Chair, at this very moment, a few floors away, the Security Council is meeting on Ukraine. Two rooms and one question, whether Ukrainian cities will be allowed to live. No city can become sustainable while it's being deliberately destroyed. Ukraine calls on member states to help protect civilian infrastructure and cultural heritage, to keep investing in Ukraine's recovery, and to stand for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on the UN Charter. One day, I hope Red Sunset will travel to rebuild Mariupol and the sun will rise there again. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [56:37]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Ukraine for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Myanmar.


Myanmar [56:48]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. In his report, the Secretary-General stressed that ongoing conflict in several LDCs continue to undermine the implementations of the Doha Programme of Action. A significant number of the LDCs are in conflict or post-conflict situations with increasingly protracted and complex dynamics that erode human security, institutional capacities and development progress. As we approach the mid-term review of the implementation of the POA next year, it is imperative that we reach those who are the furthest behind first for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Mr. Chair, conflicts in LDCs divert scarce resources away from long-term investment, and fortunately, the situation in my country, Myanmar, illustrates this phenomenon. Despite meeting all three criteria to graduate from the LDC status for the first time based on the 2018 triennial review by the CDP, our graduation process has been significantly disrupted by the 2021 military coup. Since then, the total number of IDP has gone up to over 4 million. More than 120,000 homes were destroyed or burned down by the military. According to the UNHabitat, the surge in IDP has resulted in increased urbanization, particularly in informal settlements, further straining basic services and infrastructure. At the same time, the scale of urban poverty in Yangon, Myanmar's largest city and economic hub, has grown from 10% in 2017 to 43% in 2023. In addition, nearly half of the population is living below the national poverty line. More than 6.3 million school-age children and young people have been out of school. Over 40% of households have no safely managed drinking water service. In this context, the 2024 Triton Annual Review has once again deferred a decision on Myanmar due to concern about the sustainability of the development progress following the coup. It is crystal clear that the military coup remained the major root cause of the conflict, the deterioration of our socio-economic conditions and the deferral of our RDC graduations. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, Myanmar reaffirms our commitment to the implementation of the New Agend and DPOA despite our current challenges. The NUG and major democratic forces are coordinating through the Steering Council for Emergence of Federal Democratic Union to realize our goal of ending the military dictatorship and building a federal democratic union to leave no one behind. Thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [59:49]:

I thank the representative of Myanmar for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar.


Qatar [1:00:01]:

Mr. Chairman, we would like to thank the Secretary-General for the report on the follow-up on the implementation of the 50th UN Conference on LDCs, and we appreciate the continued efforts by the Office of the High Representative and the State of Qatar co-chairs of the the group together with Belgium, and we align ourselves with the G77 statement, Mr. Chairman. The Doha Program of Action is going through a critical phase in light of the challenges which have overlapped and occurred in multiple spheres. We support LDCs' efforts to achieve sustainable development and our efforts have been embodied in hosting LDC5 in March 2023. Then, Qatar has pledged $60 million to support the implementation of the Doha program, and we have translated the commitment to practical projects. The Qatar Development Fund has signed with the Office of the High Representative two agreements worth $21 million to support the establishment of the food stockholding mechanism for LDCs. And we have also funded further programs to implement the Doha program. And in 2025, we hosted the high-level meeting on international partnerships for a sustainable graduation for LDCs in partnership with the Office of the High Representative. We emphasize in this context that we support a sustainable graduation process Mr. Chairman, multiple efforts are underway preparing for the mid-term review process in Doha in 2027, as per GA resolution 2080/150. This will be a landmark occasion to assess the efforts and to agree practical solutions to implement the second phase of the program. This is a joint responsibility that requires renewed international commitment so that LDCs can address the structural challenges and achieve sustainable development and resilience. In conclusion, the State of Qatar reiterates its commitment to work with the UN system and all partners in order to accelerate work in implementing the Doha Programme as a global roadmap to achieve sustainable development in LDCs. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:03:01]:

I thank the representative of Qatar for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cameroon.


Cameroon [1:03:11]:

Mr. Chair, Cameroon aligns itself with the statements delivered by the Group of 77 and China and the African Group. Sustainable urbanization and countries in special situations face a common fundamental challenge. Geography should not define boundaries of human opportunity or national prosperity. In Cameroon, rapid urbanization in major cities such as Douala and Yaounde is placing mounting pressure on housing, transport infrastructure, sanitation, drainage system, and essential public services. My government committed to transforming our cities into genuine engines of economic growth opportunity, rather than allowing them to become mere center of demographic concentration. Our national development strategy 2020-2030, therefore, places urban modernization within a broader ambition of structural transformation, decentralization, and balanced territorial development. Through investment in urban infrastructure, mobility, flood prevention, and more inclusive planning, we aim to transform urban growth into productivity, employment, and better living conditions. Mr. Chair. The midterm review of the New Urban Agenda reaffirmed an essential truth. The coming decade cannot be another decade of diagnosis. You and Habitat must be equipped with predictable resources and strengthened capacities to translate urban commitment into tangible results. Local governments need financing, technology and technical expertise. That means breaking with business as usual in which local governments are given responsibilities without the means to discharge them. Regarding countries in special situation, Cameroon reiterates its solidarity with the least developed countries. The Doha Programme of Action must deliver sustainable concessional financing, technology transfer, productive investment, and predictable support of countries regarding graduating from LDC status. Mr. Chair, my delegation now recalls that credibility of our multilateral commitment will be measured not by the promises we renew, but by the opportunities we create. That is the meaning of international solidarity. Thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:06:07]:

I thank the representative of Cameroon for his statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco.


Morocco [1:06:19]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, as we have reached the midpoint of New Urban Agenda, we would like to emphasize that there is an urgent need for renewed, pragmatic, and inclusive urban multilateralism, one that embodies solidarity and shared responsibility to deliver on housing needs and sustainable urbanization. For the Kingdom of Morocco, urban development is a pillar of human dignity, social cohesion, economic resilience, and territorial equity. Access to decent housing remains a cornerstone of our public policy priorities. Through Morocco National Climate Plan for 2030, our urban policies integrate the fight against urban sprawl, the preservation of biodiversity, and energy efficiency. My delegation welcomes UN-Habitat's vision which rightly places adequate housing, land and basic services for all at its core. We call for a strengthened UN-Habitat with predictable financing and for urban resilience and affordable housing to be central at its work. Chair, small island developing states, least developed state countries and landlocked developing developing countries continue to bear the heaviest burden of climate shocks, debt distress, food and energy insecurity, and high transit costs. The vulnerabilities remind us that solidarity must be more than a principle, it must be a practice. Morocco's solidarity with SIDS, LDCs, and LLDCs is both principled and action-oriented. It translates into tangible cooperation across economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development via South-South and triangular cooperation projects and initiatives. For landlocked countries, the Royal Initiative to grant Sahel states access to the Atlantic Ocean offers a concrete path out of isolation, placing Morocco's road, rail, and port infrastructure at their disposal. As we advance the AUAWASA program of action for LLDCs, And we prepare for the midterm review of the Doha program of action for LDCs, Morco calls for three priorities, number one, greater access to concessional and development financing, as well as to new technologies and technical assistance. Number two, stronger South-South and triangular cooperation, complementing North-South commitments. Number three, strengthening resilience as a key component of implementation strategies through crisis preparedness and climate adaptation. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:09:00]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Morocco for his statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nepal.


Nepal [1:09:10]:

Thank you, Chair. Nepal Alliance itself with the statements delivered on behalf of G7 and China, LDCs and LLDCs. As both LDC and LLDC, Nepal continues to face structural constraints arising from landlockedness, high trade and transit cost, infrastructure gaps, limited productive capacities, mounting debt servicing burdens, and acute vulnerability to climate disaster. Despite contributing less than 0.1% of global emissions, Nepal remains on the front line of climate crisis. Recent climate-induced floods demonstrate how a single disaster can reverse years of hard-won development gains overnight. We urgently require over USD 5 billion for recovery and reconstruction. We therefore call for scaled-up, predictable and consistent development and climate finance, grant-based resources for adaptation, loss and damage and recovery, fulfillment of ODA commitments, effective debt sustainability measures, and greater investment in priority capacities, human capital, technology transfer, trade facilitation, and market access. International cooperation must match the scale of these interconnected challenges and support countries in special situations to achieve sustainable development goals. We remain committed to a smooth, irreversible, and sustainable LDC graduation and request UN Member States' continued support to extension of Nepal's preparatory period alongside Bangladesh until 2029 during consideration of this agenda in the General Assembly ahead. For LLDCs, stronger connectivity, efficient transit system, resilient transport corridors and robust trade facilitation are indispensable to reducing cost and integrating into regional and global value chains. Guided by our doctrine of thick connectivity and thin borders, we are expanding multimodal transit corridors, modernizing integrated checkpoints, and scaling cross-border transmission grids. This requires stronger political will and cooperation among LLDCs, transit countries, multilateral institutions, and the private sector. Chair, Nepal's constitution guarantees adequate housing as a fundamental right, while sustainable urbanization is mainstreamed across our development policies. With more than two thirds of our population living in cities or rapidly urbanizing areas, urban centers are transforming into hubs of growth, innovation and opportunity. Yet, rapid urbanization is intensifying pressures on housing, infrastructure, public services and the environment. Implementing the new urban agenda therefore requires a whole of the government and society approach, integrating housing with sustainable land management, mobility, clean energy, digital connectivity, nature-based solutions and climate resilient infrastructure. Above all, global commitments must deliver locally. Strong local institutions, adequate financing, digital innovation, evidence-based planning, and meaningful community participation are essential. Urban transformation must reduce inequalities and expand opportunities for women, youth, persons with disabilities, elderly, and vulnerable communities. Nepal remains committed to advancing 2030 agenda, new urban agenda, Doha and our program of action in this.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:12:13]:

I thank the representative of Nepal for his statement. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Azerbaijan.


Azerbaijan [1:12:24]:

Mr. Chair, the achievement of SDG 11 is central to the realization of the 2030 agenda. As urbanization continues to shape societies and economies, our ability to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities will be critical to achieving sustainable development for all. The Secretary General's latest report reminds us that while progress has been made, significant implementation gaps remain. Strengthening policy coherence, financing, capacity building, and partnerships will therefore be essential to ensure that the New Urban Agenda delivers tangible improvements in people's life. In this regard, we recognize the importance of strengthening UN-Habitat's capacity to effectively deliver on its mandate. welcome the adoption by the General Assembly of the political declaration to renew commitment and accelerate implementation of the new urban agenda. The declaration provides renewed political impetus to our collective efforts. Sustainable urbanization is an important dimension of Azerbaijan's contribution to the 2030 agenda. Earlier this year, together with UN-Habitat, Azerbaijan co-organized the 13th session of the World Urban Forum under the theme, housing the world, safe and resilient cities and communities, bringing together participants from 176 countries who certainly placed the global housing crisis at the center of international urban policy dialogue. It also featured the first ministerial meeting and the inaugural leaders summit. As the Secretary General underscores in his report, the Baku Call to Action of 2013 developed through an extensive and inclusive months long global multi stakeholder consultation process, calls for an assertive, concerted and urgent response to the global housing crisis and for accelerated implementation of the New Urban Agenda through 2036. The central importance of housing is also reflected in Azerbaijan's engagement in the intergovernmental process on adequate housing. As co-chair of the open-ended intergovernmental expert working group on adequate housing for all, Azerbaijan attaches particular importance to adequate, affordable, and sustainable housing. Mr. Chair, urban development is also a national priority for Azerbaijan. 2026 has been declared the year of urban planning and architecture by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, reflecting our commitment to modern, sustainable, and people-centered urban development. Azerbaijan is advancing integrated urban planning and sustainable and resilient communities, including in the context of the great return to the territories liberated from occupation. Our experience reinforces the importance of connecting sound urban planning with infrastructure, resilience, housing, and the needs of communities. We believe that sharing such experiences through platforms such as World Urban Forum can help global commitments into practical solutions. Thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:15:19]:

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


Bangladesh [1:15:29]:

With the statements of the G77 and China and the LDC group, we note the Secretary-General's reports presented today. Development gains remain fragile in countries in special situations. Debt servicing puts pressure on public finances, climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and disruptions in energy and food supplies often undo years of progress. For LDCs, the DPOA provides a blueprint to address these challenges. As we prepare for its midterm review next March, we hope to see renewed partnerships that help strengthen productive capacities, diversify economies, and withstand external shocks. ODA commitments for LDCs must be fulfilled, accessible concessional finance, increased FDI flows and fairer debt solutions are essential. Migration remains a lifeline for many of our economies, promoting regular migration and lowering remittance costs help protect livelihoods. We acknowledge progress on the five DPOF key deliverables. Building on these efforts, the MTR should mobilize financing and cooperation to expand their reach and benefits, guided by national We are committed to support Technology Bank and welcome the new MD. We appreciate its work on technology needs assessments. The report rightly highlights the need to strengthen LDC's capacity to access, adapt, and govern emerging technologies, including AI. Mr. Chair, with 14 LDCs on the path to graduation, ensuring sustainable and irreversible transitions is essential. Meeting the criteria alone is not enough. Overcoming structural constraints takes time and sustained support. We take note of the work of the ad hoc working group on smooth transition and look forward to an updated framework that reflects LDCs' vulnerabilities and ensures predictable support before and after graduation. The MVI with appropriate adjustments and beyond the GDP process can help better capture each country's vulnerabilities and development needs. Building resilience also requires attention to cities and communities. Through the New Urban Agenda, UN-Habitat's work on housing, basic services, and resilient urban planning can help protect vulnerable communities and expand opportunities in countries in special situations. We reaffirm our commitment to DPOA, Awaaza, and ABAS, appreciate OHRLLS role in advancing these shared commitments. UN reform efforts, including UNAT, must strengthen the offices that support LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS and safeguard their capacity to deliver the assistance these countries need. I thank you, Mr. Chair.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:18:15]:

I thank the representative of Bangladesh for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Zimbabwe.


Zimbabwe [1:18:30]:

Thank you, Chair. The mid-term review of the New Urban Agenda provided an opportunity for member states to renew our collective commitment to accelerate urban transformation at scale. With 3.4 billion people living in inadequate housing, the urban housing crisis requires coordinated and systemic interventions rather than isolated responses. Zimbabwe continues to expand access to affordable housing, including through the Presidential Title Deeds and Settlements Programme. Through this initiative, we are formalising tenure for an estimated 1.5 million residents, providing greater security of tenure while unlocking access to credit and incremental housing investment. We are, however, concerned that a 12% decline in UNHabitat's funding, with core resources at just 10.6%, threatens its ability to deliver on its mandate. We therefore reiterate the call for adequate, predictable resourcing for UNHabitat so that it is sufficiently capacitated to support Member States. Chair, we welcome progress on the implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action. including the establishment of LLDCs as a negotiating group under the UNFCCC, the creation of the High-Level Panel on Freedom of Transit, and the completion of feasibility studies on the Infrastructure Investment Finance Facility and regional agricultural research hubs. This progress, however, comes against a challenging external backdrop, marked by declining ODA, rising debt burdens, persistent digital divides, and an escalating climate crisis. These pressures further compound the structural barriers to trade that already disproportionately affect LLDCs. We look forward to the next steps, including the operationalization of the hubs and the IIFF, as well as its de-risking instruments and the prioritization of corridor connectivity. Finally, we concur with the assessment that the current resource capacity of the OHRLLS is no longer compatible with the expanded mandate of the AWASA Programme of Action. and adequately resourced OHRLLS is indispensable to the effective implementation of the AUAWASA Programme of Action and ultimately to the attainment of the SDGs in countries in special situations. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:20:59]:

I thank the representative of Zimbabwe, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Paraguay.


Paraguay [1:21:12]:

Thank you very much, Chairman. Paraguay is convinced that our geography should not put a limit on our aspirations, and this is why we are resolved to turning the fact that we're a landlocked country into an opportunity to strengthen connectivity, to boost regional integration, to development our productive capacities, and to expand our access to international markets. It is on this basis that Paraguay reaffirms the importance of the OAS Programme of Action as the main roadmap to address the structural disadvantages that our countries face and to increase cooperation between LLDCs, transit countries and development partners. In this context, Paraguay thanks expresses our thanks for and takes note of the reports presented by the Secretary General to follow up on the program of action of OAS and recognizes particularly the efforts made for their preparation and presentation these documents are important inputs to review possible concrete responses and to determine the best ones to address the structural disadvantages that LDCs face and to thus make headway in the implementation of the OAS program of action. Furthermore, Paraguay welcomes the establishment by the Secretary General of the high level panel on freedom of transit for LLDCs, which is one of the main concrete results contained in the OAS program of action. We believe that work to review the implementation of laws and international agreements in force should enable us to identify the stumbling blocks that still affect transit and to extend practical recommendations to improve unhindered access to the sea and from the sea for LDCs. We express our satisfaction to have on the panel a Paraguayan expert whose experience and knowledge we are sure will will constitute a valuable contribution to its work and the identification of concrete solutions to strengthen freedom of transit. Furthermore, we urge continuing to make headway in the other concrete results contained in the OASO Programme of Action, which must be coupled with effective implementation mechanisms, follow-up and adequate resources. Paraguay reiterates its support to the Office of the High Representative, whose role is fundamental to coordinate and mobilize the support of the UN system for our countries, and we underscore the importance of the Office having the resources and skills required to effectively support the implementation of the Programme of Action. By way of conclusion, for Paraguay, the new step that we're taking after the adoption of the Ouagadougou Programme of Action must be focused on turning commitments into concrete results. Our country will continue to work with Member States, the UN system and other relevant partners to make sure that our geography is not a limit to our development possibilities, but rather an incentive for better connectivity, integration and cooperation. Thank you very much.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:24:11]:

I thank the representative of Paraguay for his statement. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.


Russian Federation [1:24:21]:

Mr. Chairman, we would like to note the importance of what's happening in March of next year. That's the midterm review of the Doha Program of Action for LDCs. We trust that this process will provide additional momentum, momentum for achievement of its key tasks. This is important, particularly important amid declining ODA. We have a conviction. It is that the international community must concentrate its efforts on poverty eradication, on ensuring food security, and on creating conditions for sustainable economic growth of countries in this category. We need to place particular attention on strengthening food and export capacity of LDCs. This is precisely, in our view, where the main focus needs to go. Russia has been consistent in supporting countries that are in special situations. We do this bilaterally and through the UN. We want to note also the efforts through the Eurasian Economic Union. There, there is a unified system of preferential tariffs with no tariffs on goods imported from LDCs, and there's a beneficial regime for goods from developing and least developed countries too. Turning now to our partners from LDCs, here we underscore the importance of working to improve transport connectivity and to ensure these countries can access global markets. That is inter alia laid out in the AVASA program of action. A particular role is played by reliable transport corridors. These include specifically the north to south pathway, but it's important to work on developing new corridors. So we'd like to draw attention to the potential of the Northern Sea Route. Russia being the biggest transit country underscores the importance of improving transport and economic connectivity of states of Central, South, and Southeast Asia. And we are contributing to developing Eurasian integrative processes, including the EAEU and the Greater European Partnership. In terms of the new urban agenda, allow us to note the importance of the review of it, the adoption of this declaration should assess our progress we've achieved and set the priorities for the next 10 years. We reaffirm our readiness to engage constructively on this track. Thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:26:38]:

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


Kenya [1:26:53]:

Thank you. Thank you very much. Chair, Executive Director, and distinguished delegates, Kenya aligns itself with the statement of the Group of 77 and China and welcomes this timely dialogue. Madam Chair, 10 years after the adoption of a new urban agenda, and as UN-Habitat commemorates its 50th year anniversary, the defining test is now on delivery. Well-planned urbanization is a powerful driver of inclusive growth and climate resilience, whereas unmanaged urban expansion only entrenches inequality and heightens vulnerability. As host of UN-Habitat and a rapidly urbanizing nation, Kenya is acting. Our affordable housing program expands decent homes and jobs while linking housing to services, transport, and livelihoods. With our 47 counties, we are advancing informal settlement, upgrading, and climate-resilient infrastructure. Kenya looks forward to hosting UN-Habitat at 50 in Nairobi, and this must be a moment of accountability and renewal, mobilizing political support, predictable resources, and faster implementation. The central obstacle is the financing and capacity gap, as has been mentioned by earlier speakers. Developing countries need predictable grants and concessional finance, capacity building, project preparation, and access to environmentally sound technologies. Private finance should complement and not replace public investment and international cooperation. Kenya supports affordable finance for cities and local authorities in developing countries within national frameworks and under competent national coordination. Adequate housing must remain central to the new urban agenda and be integrated with planning, services, mobility, livelihoods, and resilience, especially for those most at risk of inclusion. Strengthening UN-Habitat is also critical. UN-Habitat's 2026-2029 strategic plan must turn global norms into technical support, reliable urban data, integrated planning, and bankable projects, backed by effective regional and country delivery. Kenya would therefore appreciate further insights on two critical areas.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:29:55]:

I thank the representative of Kenya. Unfortunately, the mic has been cut. I thank the representative of Kenya for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran.


Iran (Islamic Republic of) [1:30:09]:

Mr. Chair, we align ourselves with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of Group of 77 and China. For the Islamic Republic of Iran, sustainable urban development is both a national priority and an important area of international cooperation. Iran continues to improve urban infrastructure and public services, promote sustainable public transport, expand access to affordable housing, and strengthen capacities for disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, and urban resilience. As a country vulnerable to earthquake, drought, floods, climate change, and sand and dust storms, Iran has gained valuable experience in disaster preparedness and risk management. We remain committed to sharing our experience with regional countries and affected countries. Chair, sustainable urban development require peace, security, and respect for international law and charter of the United Nations. Cities cannot be resilient when their people are not safe. Military aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran have caused Extensive loss of life and severe damages to homes, schools, universities, hospitals, bridges, and other critical civilian infrastructure, undermining years of development progress. This destruction disrupts essential services and economic activities while creating lasting environmental and public health risks, including pollution, soil, water contamination, and damage to ecosystems. Mr. Chair, implementing the New Urban Agenda requires a stronger international cooperation, capacity building, technology transfer, and adequate means of implementation, respective to national priorities. The United Nations has a central role in this effort. A strong, effective, and adequate resource, UN-Habitat, is essential to support developing countries in addressing urban agenda, strengthening resilience, and implementing the new urban agenda. Sustainable urban development also requires an enabling international environment. Unilateral coercive measures restrict access to finance, technology, essential equipment and international cooperation. In closing, Mr. Chair, the future of our cities depend on national action, international cooperation, and collective commitment to peace, international law, solidarity, and effective multilateralism. We call for a stronger international cooperation and renewed efforts to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities for all. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:33:08]:

I thank the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Poland.


Poland [1:33:16]:

Chair, ensuring sustainable development of urban areas becomes increasingly cross-cutting for the realization of SDGs, considering the growing urban population worldwide. The New Urban Agenda provides an excellent guiding framework in this regard, and Poland was honored to serve recently as a co-facilitator of the political declaration on the mid-term review process for its implementation. Poland incorporates the New Urban Agenda recommendations as well as the objectives under the SDG 11 into its strategic policy documents, such as the National Urban Policy 2030. The policy's main goals are improving quality of residents' life, ensuring quality of the natural environment and promoting climate adaptation measures, strengthening the efficiency of urban mobility systems, and increasing social capital with particular attention to housing needs. But our efforts don't stop at home. Poland is actively engaged in development assistance to support the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and SDG 11, focusing on strengthening capacities of regions and cities in partner countries and the enhancement of quality of urban policies. To give one example, for the years 2026, 2027, we scheduled a dedicated project in the Republic of Moldova in the field of revitalization, urban policy and integrated development planning at the local and regional level. We promote climate-resilient urban development through varied activities and consultations with our partners in areas such as sustainable infrastructure, better access to water and sanitation, low-emission transport, environmental protection, and stronger community resilience to future crises. Colleagues, Poland highly values UN Habitat's activities and supports its mandate. We are proud to have contributed to the programme's work during the important period of its governance reform, institutional consolidation and strategic planning as a member of the Habitat's Executive Board in the term 2019-2025. Let me also express our appreciation for the open-ended intergovernmental expert working group on adequate housing for all. This platform provides significant support for the implementation of the New Urban Agenda commitments through shaping responsible and sustainable housing policies that address diverse challenges and social needs globally. Ladies and gentlemen, Let me also stress that Poland recognizes challenges in economic and social progress faced by countries in special situations, including those stemming from climate change or geographical remoteness, and supports actions taken within the UN system to assist those countries in overcoming those challenges. We hope that the upcoming mid-term review of the Doha Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries will contribute to a tangible reduction in inequalities, to better utilizing women's potential for contribution into the economic and social progress, and to engaging local communities in the pursuit of lasting peace and sustainable development. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:36:14]:

I thank the representative of Poland for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste.


Timor-Leste [1:36:28]:

Mr. Chair, Timor-Leste aligned itself with the statement delivered on behalf of ASEAN the Group of 77 and China, the LDC Group and OAS. On groups of countries in special situations, we reaffirm our commitment to implementing the Doha Programme of Action. We take note of the Secretary-General's report highlighting uneven progress and persistent implementation challenges. As an LDC, Timor-Leste prioritizes economic diversification, productive capacities, and decent employment. Our medium-term plan, 2027-2030, building on Strategic Development Plan 2011-2030, emphasizes agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and manufacturing alongside small businesses and skills development. To advance this effort, we underscore the importance of predictable international support, including official development assistance, affordable financing, technology transfer, and improved market access. Tailored assistance can help consolidate development gains, while smooth transition measures remain important for graduating countries. The Doha Midterm Review in March 2027 offer an opportunity to assess progress, address implementation gap, and renew support for concrete delivery during the program's remaining years. Mr. Chair, turning to the New Urban Agenda, we support its effective implementation to advance inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable human settlements. Our national priorities include balanced territorial development, municipal spatial planning, adequate, affordable, and resilient housing, housing finance, and stronger building standards. Integrating disaster risk reduction into planning and infrastructure investment can help protect communities. We support adequate and predictable resources for UN-Habitat to fulfill its mandate. We will welcome technical assistance in planning, housing policy, and municipal capacities, alongside support in accessing concessional and climate finance. National ownership, UN coordination, and community participation can strengthen implementation. For Timor-Leste, progress under both agendas means stronger livelihoods, safer homes, and more reliable services. These are the results we hope our collective efforts will deliver. I thank you, Mr. Chair.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:39:25]:

I thank the representative of Timor-Leste for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Haiti.


Haiti [1:39:37]:

Mr. Chair, my delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of CARICOM and the G77 and China and the LDC group. We would like to provide our national comments on the efforts undertaken on these agenda items. Turning now to agenda item 18, in Haiti, There are major structural challenges. This reality is exacerbated by urban sprawl and also through informal settlements in our capital. These areas have no services. Haiti calls upon UN-Habitat to support urban planning that is is inclusive and social that can integrate displaced people and secure basic services. Under agenda item 20, it is urgent to ensure capacity building that is technological, scientific, and institutional. In Haiti, 84% of the population have a mobile subscription, but only 39% effectively use the internet. We need to bridge this digital divide. To do so, my government has rolled out a national fiber optic backbone. We've set out and data storage and securing public data with the IBD, and we've set out a legal framework for data protection in line with international norms. We support the proposal of a food stockholding mechanism, and we want to see more coordination of the UN system in ensuring the humanitarian development nexus. The deficit of road structure is aggravated by the fact that our main roads are blocked by armed groups. This hampers internal trade, and it also hampers the access of people to care and assistance. We're improving our airport infrastructure in the south and in Cape Ayesan. Haiti reaffirms that peace, security, governance, and development are vital. Efforts undertaken to stabilize the country and to prepare for elections is fully aligned with this vision. The framework exists. The Doha program, the Antigua and Barbuda agenda, and others are vital. Right now, we need to ensure predictable, coherent, and well-adapted implementation, adapted to national realities. Haiti is resolved to move forward with its partners toward a more stable, prosperous world. Thank you.


2nd Committee · Chair [1:42:27]:

I thank the delegate. I thank the distinguished delegate of Haiti for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Zambia.


Zambia [1:42:38]:

Chairperson, Excellencies, Esteemed Delegates, Zambia aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the Group of 77, China, the LEDCs, and the LLODCs. We affirm our commitment to the New Urban Agenda, the Doha Programme of Action for LDCs, and the Awaza Programme of Action. These three frameworks address distinct but interconnected dimensions of sustainable development and require accelerated implementation. We wish to highlight the following priorities, Chairperson. First, close the housing and urban implementation gaps. We call for integrated programs connecting affordable housing and informal settlement upgrading with serviced land, infrastructure, livelihoods, and climate resilience. Stronger municipal financing, urban data, and collaboration among governments, the private sector, and communities should underpin delivery. Second, move the Doha flagship initiatives into operation. The 2027 midterm review should secure implementation roadmaps and predictable financing. Specifically, we support voluntary, transparently selected pilots for the food stockholding mechanism, building on national systems to strengthen emergency reserves, commercial food supply, and shock-responsive social protection. Third, strengthen the graduation framework. We support a standard five-year preparatory period and clear crisis-related extensions. Graduation must safeguard development gains with trade and financing support aligned to national transition strategies and predictable funding for the sustainable graduation policy facility. Fourth, advanced practical infrastructure financing. We favor pursuing a facility hosted with an existing institution or a coordination platform, avoiding duplication. Its priorities should include project preparation, risk mitigation, and cross-border transport, energy, and digital investments. Alongside improved border management, transport corridors must become development corridors, making our countries truly land-linked. Fifth, turn technology and research into productive capacity. We call for sustained financing for technology bank to translate country-led technology needs assessment into implementable projects. Sixth, match mandates with resources and accountability. UNHABITAT The UN OHR LLS require predictable resources and stronger system coordination. We propose clear milestones and regular reporting on flagship delivery. We call on partners to fulfill OGA commitments, expand accessible adaptation finance, and address debt vulnerabilities and high financing. As we move forward, our focus must be on translating agreed frameworks, targets,


2nd Committee · Chair [1:45:40]:

I thank the representative of Zambia, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malawi.


Malawi [1:45:50]:

Madam Chair, Malawi aligns itself and fully supports the statements delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and by the Gambia on behalf of the least developed countries. The mid-term review of the Doha Programme of Action must accelerate implementation and deliver tangible benefits for our people. In particular, we welcome the Secretary-General's assessment that the LDC food stocking mechanism is viable and urgently needed, as well as preparations for a pilot phase supported by voluntary contributions. As one of the countries being considered for participation in the pilot phase, Malawi stands ready to work with the partners to strengthen national preparedness and generate practical lessons that can inform the wider implementation of the mechanism. Madam Chair, climate shocks and other dependence on maize leave households vulnerable to food shortages. Foreign exchange constraints further limit our ability to finance emergency food imports. A well-managed reserve can provide a critical buffer. Its success must ultimately be measured by how quickly safe and adequate food reaches vulnerable households during crisis. Malawi therefore emphasizes three priorities that will be critical to the successful implementation and long-term sustainability of the mechanism. First, national leadership and operational readiness. The pilot should strengthen existing institutions, identify capacity gaps, and establish clear responsibilities for procurement, storage, release, and distribution. Second, initial capitalization and sustainable financing. We call on member states and the development partners to mobilize voluntary contributions for the pilot phase. Support must extend beyond initial procurement to cover replenishment, stock crash, rotation, maintenance, and transport, alongside technical assistance and strengthened early warning systems. Third, accountability and effective delivery. Transparent procurement, regular audits, and clear release criteria should guide implementation. The mechanism should complement private storage, regional trade, and shock response social protection, while preserving incentives for farmers. Malawi therefore calls for coordinated United Nations support, adequate and predictable financing, and a clear implementation roadmap under national leadership. Our shared commitment must ultimately be translated into a simple result: food reaching those who need it when they need it. I thank you, Chair.


2nd Committee · Vice-Chair [1:48:45]:

I thank the representative of Malawi for his statement. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria.


Algeria [1:48:55]:

Thank you, Mr. Vice Chair. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the G77 and China, and states the importance of accelerating efforts for the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. The political declaration adopted at the midterm review of the New Urban Agenda was an opportunity to renew our commitment to accelerate its implementation. Sustainable urban development remains essential for achieving the 2030 Agenda. However, significant challenges persist in achieving SDG 11, particularly for developing countries. This includes financing gaps, growing housing needs, housing affordability, and widening inequalities. For Algeria, as reflected in its VNR presented at the 2020 6th HOPF, improving the life condition of all citizens is a national priority and at its center, ensuring adequate and affordable housing for all. Over the period 2020 and 2024, the government distributed more than 1,007,100 housing units through various formulas tailored to different social segments to ensure social inclusion and thereby contributing to educating poverty, precarious housing, and promoting the right to adequate housing. Housing policies have been also accompanied by investments in transport and infrastructure to ensure sustainable mobility and essential public services such as water, electricity, natural gas, transport, health and education to promote inclusive, sustainable and resilient cities. This investment extends across the whole country, including the Highlands and the South. ensuring that housing development is supported by adequate connectivity and essential services. Finally, Algeria remains committed to accelerate its efforts to advance the achievement of all SDGs, including SDG 11. I thank you, Mr. Vice Chair.


2nd Committee · Vice-Chair [1:51:08]:

I thank the representative of Algeria for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico.


Mexico [1:51:17]:

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much, Chairman. Mexico thanks the Secretary-General for presenting his report on following up on the New Urban Agenda and strengthening UN-Habitat. In its implementation, we have an opportunity to look at progress, identify gaps and to accelerate implementation through concrete actions. Mexico agrees that adequate housing and access to basic services must remain at the heart of our efforts to advance with the New Urban Agenda and SDG 11. For Mexico, decent housing must be addressed comprehensively, linked to access to water, sanitation, mobility, public services, social inclusion and the protection of the environment. Chairman, Cities are also essential for tackling climate change. We welcome that close to 80% of the NDCs already include urban components. Mexico recognizes the support of UN-Habitat to strengthen the urban dimension of its NDC and agrees on the importance of translating national climatic commitments into concrete commitments on a local level. What's more, we believe it's essential to strengthen multi-level governments and participation of local governments. who are on the front line of the implementation of the SDGs. That's why we must close the urban financing gap, particularly for housing, infrastructure and basic services, and to ensure that there are adequate and predictable resources for UN-Habitat so that they can effectively fulfill their mandates. Finally, Mexico reaffirms its commitment to the New Urban Agenda. The next decade must see an accelerated implementation that allows us to build more inclusive cities and communities that are more safe, resilient, and sustainable. Thank you very much.


2nd Committee · Vice-Chair [1:53:14]:

I thank the representative of Mexico for her statement. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Gambia.


Gambia [1:53:23]:

Thank you, Chair. The Gambia aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the Group of 77 and China and the Group of Least Developed Countries. Four years into the Doha Programme of Action, the gap between commitments and implementation remains a serious concern. Limited productive capacity, constrained fiscal space, high debt servicing obligations, external shocks and climate change continue to constrain our development efforts. These pressures are also affecting our urban communities, where growing demand for adequate housing, basic services, and resilient infrastructure is compounded by flooding and coastal erosion. We therefore reiterate the need for concessional financing, fulfilment of ODA commitments, effective debt sustainability measures, and investment in productive capacities. To implement the New Urban Agenda, UN-Habitat and development partners should strengthen urban planning, expand essential services and integrate climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction. This support must equip national and local authorities to translate urban plans into implementable projects. Chair, science, technology and innovation are essential to strengthening productive capacities and addressing urban challenges, including through better planning, improved service delivery and early warning systems for floods and other hazards. We welcome the UN Technology Bank's shift from technology needs assessment towards concrete initiatives under its strategic plan for 2025 to 2027. The Bank's technology needs assessment contributed to the Gambia's industrial and diversification policy. and micro, small and medium enterprises policy and informed the WTO's assessment of our technology needs. Government officials also participated in the Bank's AI for Impact program in February. this year, strengthening capacities in AI governance and responsible technology adoption. Building on this cooperation, the Gambia is working with the Bank on an initiative that is expected to train 300 young Gambians, support 60 participants in applied innovation in agriculture, health, and strengthening public institutions' capacity to harness emerging technologies. We call for adequate and predictable international support to advance our development priorities, including sustained funding for the UN Technology Bank to fulfill its mandate and expand its support to LDCs. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Vice-Chair [1:55:49]:

I thank the representative of the Gambia for her statement, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Holy See.


Holy See [1:56:01]:

Mr. Chair, today's debate is an opportunity to recognize and address the unique and persistent vulnerability that put the least developed countries, landlocked development countries, and small island developing states at greater risk of lagging behind in the pursuit of sustainable development. Each of these groups of countries adopted a program of action reflecting both their particular circumstances and their shared determination to advance sustainable development. However, the gap between aspiration and delivery continues to widen. Economic pressures, rising debt, climate change, and conflict are among the crisis pushing sustainable development out of reach for so many countries. For countries in special situations, These pressures are often intensified by structural vulnerability that are beyond their control. In this regard, my delegation would like to offer the following reflections. Firstly, access to financial and technological resources is essential. Countries in special situations must have the means to invest in their development, strengthen their resilience, and respond to emerging crisis. This requires greater access to concessional financing, addressing unsustainable debt burdens, including through debt cancellation and technology transfer. Secondly, we must place people at the center of our efforts. The measure of development is not simply economic growth, but whether the inherent God-given dignity of each person is recognized by providing the conditions necessary for them to flourish. Investments in healthcare, education, decent work, and social protection systems are therefore indispensable. Ultimately, development must serve the human person and the common good, particularly where structural vulnerability place communities at greater risk. Finally, it is important to underscore that solidarity is both a principle and a virtue. As a principle, it expresses the objective order of relationships among individuals. groups and peoples, pointing to an awareness of interdependence whereby the good of each person depends on the good of others. As a virtue, it requires a firm and preserving determination to strive for the common good with particular attention to those most in need. Solidarity should indeed be embraced as both a principle and virtue, recognizing the unique vulnerability of countries in special situations and responding accordingly. I thank you, Mr. Chair.


2nd Committee · Vice-Chair [1:58:45]:

I thank the representative of the Holy See, and I now give the floor to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, OECD.


OECD [1:59:04]:

Thank you, Chair. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, more than 1.1 billion people live in informal settlements globally. Hundreds of millions lack access to affordable and adequate housing, and communities everywhere are facing the growing impacts of climate change. The OECD is therefore prioritizing two key levers in the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. First, we must promote access to adequate, affordable, climate-resilient, and sustainable housing for all. Housing affordability is continuing to deteriorate, and homelessness is a major issue, particularly in large cities, where housing prices increased by 68% between 2013 and 2023. We should invest more in affordable and social housing, increase overall housing supply in cities, and better utilize existing housing stock through innovative solutions. Second, countries, regions, and cities need to prepare for and adapt to demographic change by planning housing, infrastructure, and services for the urban population of tomorrow. Let me now turn to the subject of countries in special situations. OECD data on official development assistance underpin UN monitoring of the Doha Programme of Action. Preliminary figures show that bilateral net ODA from Development Assistance Committee members to least developed countries fell by nearly 26% in 2025. Flows are projected to decline by a further 10.9% this year. Building on the programme's call for more effective and better coordinated support, including through integrated national financing frameworks, The OECD is also exploring collaboration with the UN on how bilateral partners can help countries prepare for and achieve a smooth transition through LDC graduation. In addition, aid for trade can further support graduating countries consistent with the Doha Programme of Action's call to avoid abrupt reductions in international support measures. Similarly, the OECD supports the implementation of several priorities of the AWASA Programme of Action. notably in the areas of trade, investment, and financing for development. OECD data support efforts to track the volume and allocation of development resources reaching LLDCs. The OECD remains committed to supporting the implementation and follow-up of both the OWASA and Doha programs of action. Through its data, policy analysis, and partnerships, the organization will continue to help strengthen financing, trade, and investment outcomes for landlocked and least developed countries. I thank you.


2nd Committee · Vice-Chair [2:01:43]:

I thank the representative of the OECD for his statement. Distinguished delegates, we've heard the last speaker on the list. The committee has thus concluded its general discussion of agenda items 18 and 20. We have come to the end of this afternoon's meeting. The committee will reconvene on Monday morning, 12th of October at 10:00 a.m. in this room to begin consideration of agenda item 17, sustainable development. The meeting is adjourned.