Sixth Committee, 24th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 81st session

Good morning, colleagues. I call to order the 24th meeting of the Sixth Committee for the 81st session of the General Assembly. Distinguished delegates, this morning, the Sixth Committee will consider agenda item 77, United Nations Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law. I draw your attention to the report of the Secretary-General on the topic, which is contained in document A/81/417. The report is available on the website of the Sixth Committee. I understand that the Advisory Committee on the Programme of Assistance, chaired by His Excellency Ambassador Samuel Yaw Kuma, Permanent Representative of Ghana to the United Nations, had a successful meeting at its 61st session held on 6 October 2026. I remind delegations that a brief summary of that meeting is contained in the report. Distinguished delegates, the Secretariat has traditionally provided information on the implementation of the activities under the Programme of Assistance. We therefore have with us today the Secretary of the Advisory Committee, Mr. Marcus Polak, who will provide an overview of the activities during the reporting period. We also have with us Mr. Vladimir Zarets, Director of Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea. They will both address the Committee, who will address the Committee on the Hamilton Shirley Amer Singh Memorial Fellowship on the Law of the Sea. Welcome. Following the statement of the Chair of the Advisory Committee, I will invite the Secretary of the Advisory Committee and the Director of the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea to make their statements. Distinguished delegates, I will now give the floor to Mr. Ernest Abeye, Minister at the Permanent Mission of Ghana. Mr. Abey, you have the floor. Mr. Abey will deliver a statement on behalf of the chair of the advisory committee.

Thank you, Madam Chair, for giving me the floor. I have the honor to address the Sixth Committee and report on the work of a sixth session of the advisory committee on the United Nations Program of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination, and Wider Appreciation of International Law held during the morning of 6 October 2026. I encourage delegations to refer to the report of the Secretary-General contained in document A/81/417 for the full version of the Committee's report. As indicated during the session, the Committee expressed its strong support for the programme of assistance as well as its deep concern at the impact of a liquidity situation of the organization on the program and its activities. Members of the committee expressed the hope that voluntary contributions would continue to be made while emphasizing the importance of regular budget funding for the program of assistance. Pursuant to its mandate, the Advisory Committee reviewed activities undertaken during the reporting period and took note of proposed activities of 2027, including resulting administrative and financial implications. The program of assistance continues to enjoy the overwhelming support of all members of the committee who are led to its intrinsic value of the realization of the principles and the purposes of the United Nations Charter. as well as to its contribution to international peace and security and to promoting friendly relations and cooperation among states. In the remarks given by the chair, he highlighted the enduring value of legal education and the critical role international law plays in fostering peace, justice, and development across our regions. He was pleased to note that the general view of the Committee that Programme of Assistance remains a crucial tool for enhancing the legal capacities of national experts and more so for strengthening a collective commitment to peace and development. The Committee welcomed the four in-person training programmes conducted under the mandate of the Programme of Assistance were held during the reporting period at their usual venues. While recognizing the efforts of the Office in ensuring gender and regional balance among participants and lecturers of the training programs, the Committee underscored the importance of diversity in the languages and legal traditions, as well as gender balance, and welcomed the commitment made by the Secretariat in this regard. Similarly, wider geographical representation and gender balance among participants of the training programs were emphasized. The Committee recalled the important role of the Audiovisual Library in the dissemination of information and materials in international law. In that regard, members encouraged the Office of the Legal Affairs to make our efforts to continue the recording, production and publication of lectures on the website of the Audiovisual Library. Proposals were made to increase the accessibility and visibility of the Audiovisual Library, including through the use of artificial intelligence. The Secretariat informed the Committee of the publications that were issued during this reporting period, as well as those that are in preparation. In that regard, the Committee welcomed efforts towards disseminating information and materials in international law, particularly in printed format, and suggested exploring further opportunities for dissemination. It was also noted that the Hamilton Shirley Amerasinghe Memorial Fellowship on Law of the Sea was awarded in 2026. The committee expressed its support for the funding of activities of the program from the regular budgets of the organization, while also highlighting the importance of voluntary contributions for expanding and enhancing the activities. In this respect, I wish to reiterate the Committee's appreciation for the contributions received from Austria, Azerbaijan, China, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Greece, Ireland, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal and the United Kingdom. The Committee also acknowledges the in-kind contributions of Member States, the African Union, the International Court of Justice, UN regional commissions and the Hague Academy of International Law. The Committee is particularly grateful to the host countries for the training programmes, for the organisational support, which have always been vital to the success of the programmes. Before bringing the report to a close, Allow me, Madam Chair, to reiterate Ghana's long-standing commitment to revitalization of the objectives of the Program of Assistance over the chairmanship of the Advisory Committee. We highly value the support and cooperation demonstrated over the years by all member states and remain committed in our service. Mr. Adewo, the legal advisor of the Permanent Mission of Ghana, would be introducing the zero draft at the close of the debate with the intention of undertaking a person consultation and scheduled times to be indicated by the secretariat. We look forward to your distinguished participation in the consultations and count on your valued support. I thank you.

I thank Mr. Abey for his statement on behalf of the Chair of the Advisory Committee. I now give the floor to the Secretary of the Advisory Committee, Mr. Markus Pollich. You have the floor, sir.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, It is an honor for me to address you today in my capacity as Secretary of the Advisory Committee on the United Nations Program of Assistance in the teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law. The Program of Assistance was established over 60 years ago, but the need for training and educational materials in international law remains just as important today. Thanks to the constant and consistent support of the Advisory Committee, chaired by the Permanent Representative of Ghana, and that of the Sixth Committee, the Programme of Assistance has been able to provide powerful responses to those needs.

Madame Chair, distinguished delegates, it is an honour to present a brief overview of the implementation of the program over the period under consideration, especially with regard to the training program, the outreach for international law and publications of the Office of Legal Affairs. The training programs, that is to say, the Scholarship programs for improvement in the three regional courses for Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean provide professionals in developing countries with access to comprehensive training in international law provided by eminent regional specialists and from diverse legal systems. I have the pleasure to inform you that over the course of the reporting period, secretariat was able to hold four training programs.

Distinguished delegates, specific information regarding the participants, the number of applications, and the curriculum of each program is available in the report or the Secretary General and on the website of the program of assistance. The cooperation of the United Nations Regional Commissions, as well as that of the host countries, namely Chile, Ethiopia, and Thailand, contributed significantly to the organization of the regional courses, and we are grateful to them for their support. I would be remiss not to recognize, as well, the important support of the African Union to the regional course for Africa. We also wish to thank the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Registry of the International Court of Justice, and the Hague Academy of International Law for their constant support with respect to the organization of the International Law Fellowship Program. Madame la Presidente.

Madame Chair, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished delegates, over the course of the reporting period, we published on the website of the International Law Audiovisual Library, a total of 25 new conferences, including a mini series of conferences. We also published in the historic archives of this media library, new introduction notes as well as lists of useful resources for preparing the various international law advocacy competitions. To ensure the conferences represent greater geographic and linguistic diversity, and in order to bring in conference participants who do not often visit New York, especially those coming from various regions of the world and that speak different official languages at the UN, we held successfully a registration session offsite in France in December 2025. We have made every effort to facilitate access to the media library by providing on Spotify the entirety of the conference series as well as the mini series of conferences and by publishing on the website transcriptions of conferences that have been recently placed online. With regard to the publications, the Office of Legal Affairs published the 2018 and 2019 editions of the UN Legal Annals in English, as well as volume 35 of the Arbitration Decisions Compendium.

On Tuesday, in the Fifth Committee, the Legal Counsel underscored the importance of regular budget funding for the Programme of Assistance. To achieve the true potential of the programme, voluntary contributions remain essential. I would like to thank the following Member States for their generous voluntary contributions. As noted in the report of the Secretary-General, during the reporting period, contributions were received from Austria, Azerbaijan, China, Cyprus, the Dominican Republic, Greece, Ireland, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal and the United Kingdom. After the end of the reporting period, additional contributions were received from Austria, Ireland and Slovakia. These contributions will be reflected in next year's report. I thank you for your attention and for your continuous support for the programme of assistance.

I thank the Secretary of the Advisory Committee for his statement. I now give the floor to Mr. Vladimir Jares, Director of the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea. You have the floor, sir.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, it's a pleasure for the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea to appear before the Sixth Committee, as we do annually, and provide to the Sixth Committee with an update on the implementation of the Hamilton Shirdie Amarasinghe Memorial Fellowship on the Law of the Sea. As you will recall, the HSA Memorial Fellowship was established in 1981 to assist government officials and other professionals from developing states to acquire additional knowledge on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in order to promote its wider application, appreciation, and to enhance specialized experience in maritime affairs and related disciplines. Senora Presidenta.

Madam Chair, in 2026, Ms. Juliet Afra Obeng of Ghana received the Hamilton-Shirley Amurasinghe Commemorative Memorial Scholarship on the Law of the Sea. After three months' practice in the Division, Ms. Obeng is currently completing the academic part of the scholarship at the University of St. Mary's in Halifax, Canada. At the end of the program, 37 beneficiaries of the scholarship from 31 developing countries will have completed the HSA Memorial Scholarship, of which 19 are women and 18 are men. These professionals who work in the area of ocean affairs, making significant contributions to their respective countries and regions and playing an active role representing their states in fora and processes related to ocean affairs and the law of the sea.

Madam Chair, the Division deems it critical that awards under the HSE Fellowship be made every year, which requires that the necessary funding is made available. As of 31 July of this year, the certified balance of the HSA Trust Fund, minus program support costs, is approximately USD 51,000. Estimated cost of one fellowship can be as high as USD 75,000, depending on the location of the academic portion of the fellowship. Additional voluntary financial contributions in support of the HSA Fellowship by states, international financial institutions, donor agencies, intergovernmental organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and natural and juridical persons are therefore urgently needed so that the regular award may be granted every year. We would like to thank those states which have made the last 37 fellowships possible and in particular Ireland, the Philippines and the United Kingdom, countries which have made contributions to the Fellowship in the past year. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, over the last 10 years, demand for capacity building and technical cooperation in ocean affairs and the law of the sea has grown substantially, and I would say exponentially. The Division is doing its part in trying to respond to this growing demand within limited resources. In addition to the HSA Fellowship, the division implements three annual fellowship programs with the generous support of the Nippon Foundation, namely the Fellowship on Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, the Strategic Needs Fellowship, and the Ocean Governance Fellowship for Small Island Developing States. These programs share the overarching objective of providing advanced training in ocean affairs and the law of the sea, as well as in related disciplines, thereby strengthening national capacities and supporting the effective implementation of international legal frameworks. An important component of these capacity-building efforts is the United Nations-Dippon Foundation Alumni Program, established in 2009. Beyond serving as a platform for information exchange and professional networking, This alumni program plays a pivotal role in extending and amplifying the benefits of capacity building beyond the fellowship period by fostering a global community of ocean professionals committed to continued collaboration and knowledge sharing. In addition, this alumni program supports alumni participation in international events, allowing them to share their expertise in ocean affairs and the law of the sea. Most importantly, The alumni program also enables the division to evaluate program outcomes, draw on valuable alumni feedback, and adapt its activities to remain responsive to evolving needs and priorities. Today, the United Nations Foundation Alumni Network comprises 361 ocean professionals from 106 countries, including current fellows. Well, as the division reflects on the significance of the Hamilton Shirley Amerasinghe Fellowship and its contribution over more than four decades and the many professional it has supported, we also recognize the important role that alumni network could play in extending and multiplying the impact of such efforts. In this regard, the establishment of HSA Fellowship alumni network could represent a valuable next step, strengthening connections among former fellows promoting continued professional engagement, and further enhancing the program's long-term impact. However, the establishment of such network would require additional voluntary contributions. Before I conclude my statement, I just want to briefly mention that the division has also delivered other capacity building activities, among them those undertaking in response to General Assembly Resolution 77/321, to promote a better understanding of the BBNJ agreement. I hope I don't have to spell out the acronym, and to prepare for its entering force. Partnering with various international and original organization in the past year, the division has conducted regional workshops in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and in El Salvador. In addition, the division is in the process of publishing publicly available materials such as fact sheets on the BBNG agreement and capacity needs assessment reports detailing the practical capacity needs and priorities of developing states.

Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, other capacity building activities undertaken by the division have taken place over the last year. As an example, the division piloted the conduction of studies on oceans governance for the Dominican Republic and the Republic of the Congo as part of the DUALOS NORAD assistance programs, and technical assistance is also provided to Saint Lucia under the same project. And with that, I end my statement. Thank you very much, Madam Chair.

I thank Mr. Jerez, Director of DUALOS, for his statement. Distinguished delegates, the consideration of this item in the Advisory Committee, as well as in the Sixth Committee, provides an important opportunity to hear the views of Member States concerning the Programme of Assistance. Before commencing, I remind delegations that statements delivered in a national capacity should be limited to seven minutes, while statements by groups of States will be limited to 12 minutes. Delegations are strongly encouraged to adhere to the time limits. I also remind delegations that the list of speakers is available via the QR code on the wall or on the website, as well as on the website of the Sixth Committee. If your delegation is unable to deliver your statement at the allotted slot, I request that you indicate this to the secretariat ahead of time. I now give the floor to the first speaker on our list, the distinguished representative of Uruguay on behalf of G77 and China.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. The group would like to thank the Secretary General for his report, A/81/417, which provides a detailed account of activities undertaken to implement that program of assistance. I would also like to express the group's appreciation for the members of the Advisory Committee on the United Nations Programs of Assistance in the teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law and and its chair, of course, His Excellency Samuel Yao Kuma, Permanent Representative of Ghana to the United Nations. We also commend the Codification Division of the Office of Legal Affairs for the continued efforts to implement the programme of assistance, as well as recognise the contribution of the Division of Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea. Madam Chair, the Group of 77 and China reaffirms its support for the Programme of Assistance, which serve as an effective means of strengthening international peace and security and promoting friendly relations and cooperation among states through the dissemination of international law. Over 60 years after its establishment, the Programme continues to be relevant in furthering the objectives of the United Nations for training generation of specialists, particularly those from developing countries. in the field of international law. The group appreciates the necessary resources that are budgeted for the administration of the program and reiterates its call for the continued funding of the program for the regular budget of the organization in the years to come. Such funding remains essential for conducting the International Law Fellowship Program and the United Nations regional courses in international law. issuing publication, developing and maintaining the United Nations Audiovisual Library of International Law, and for the award of the Hamilton Shirley Amerasinghe Memorial Fellowship on the Law of the Sea. These capacity building activities help to improve the participation of developing countries in the multilateral arena. In this regard, the Group expresses concern that the deteriorated liquidity situation of the Organization has had a significant impact on the implementation of the activities of the Programme and invites all States to continue to support these activities through the Organization's regular budget as well as the Trust Fund. and encourage the Secretariat to explore practical solutions, including partnership models with academic institutions in participating states to help ensure the program's financial sustainability when regular budget funds are not sufficient. We also express our sincere appreciation to all member states that have made financial and in-kind contributions to ensure the continued success of the program of assistance. Madam chair the group of 77 and China welcomes that during the reporting period the regional course in international law for Latin America and the Caribbean was held at the economic commission of Latin America and the Caribbean CLAC in Santiago from the 6th to 29th May 2026 the regional course for Asia Pacific that was held at the economic and social commission for Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok from 17th November to 10th December 2025 and the regional course for that was held at the Economic Commission for Africa in Addis Ababa from 8 April to 1 May 2026. The group also notes with satisfaction that the International Law Fellowship Program was also held in the AG from the 6th to the 24th of July 2026, as well as the various seminars organized by the Codification Division. The group supports the continuation of the training programs in the traditional format in person. Madam Chair, the importance and utility of the audiovisual library of the International Law cannot be overstated. It continues to provide virtual, high-quality training to an unlimited number of individuals around the world free of charge through the internet. The group also supports the off-site recording sessions undertaken by the Codification Division in various locations in order to promote a broader geographical and linguistic representation of the recorded lectures and to record lecturers who are unable to travel to New York and encourage remote recording where applicable. We also commend the Codification Division for its effort to facilitate access to the lectures for users with limited high-speed internet on computers and mobile devices through the Library Podcast. We applaud the efforts of the Office of Legal Affairs to promote knowledge of international law in an inclusive manner and encourage its continued outreach to Member States to inform them of how to access and use all available resources. The group reiterates the importance of a program of assistance in achieving the SDG 16, more particular the target 16.3, which calls for the promotion of the rule of law at national and international levels. The training activities under the program will ensure greater dissemination of international law and ultimately strengthen the rule of law. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay for her statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of NAM.

Thank you.

Madam Chair, the Non-Aligned Movement extends its appreciation to the members of the Advisory Committee on the United Nations Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law, and its chair, the permanent representative of Ghana to the United Nations, as well as the Codification Division of the Office of Legal Affairs for their continued commitment and support to the program and its success. The program of assistance as a means for promoting friendly relations and cooperation among the states is considered to be one of the most important activities of the United Nations, greatly contributing to the promotion of enhancing the knowledge of international law while establishing conditions enhancing respect to principles of the charter of the United Nations. As an undeniable fact, the program of assistance also plays an important role in the implementation of sustainable development goal 16, especially regarding the promotion of the rule of law at the national and international levels. It would be remiss if we did not mention the valuable opportunity presented for the participants in the program of assistance courses and seminars that promote the exchange of views, sharing of experiences, and improvement of intercultural dialogue and understanding. While placing emphasis on the strengthening of capacity building among all countries, especially within developing countries, the NAM encourages the Codification Division to also continue the provision of as much free and high-quality training as possible to a larger range of trainers around the globe. In order to obtain added tangible results from the programs, it is recommended that the audience of the courses and fellowships should consist of future decision makers in their countries to the fullest extent possible as well. The NAM fully supports the continuous efforts of the Codification Division to increase the number of fellowship awards, either fully or partially funded, provided under the regular budget for the International Law Fellowship Program and regional courses, particularly for participants from developing countries. Noting the liquidity crisis currently faced by the United Nations, Admission of participants from developing countries that are willing to bear the entire cost of the participation should be facilitated as one of the cost saving measures. The Codification Division should continue to enhance the content of the audio visual library, which is an invaluable training resource for individuals and institutions around the world. In this regard, the NAM welcomes the initiative of conducting off-site recording sessions and suggests that the suitable presentations made by the special rapporteurs of the International Law Commission to the Committee be uploaded to the library. In addition, adding lectures in more languages would be another way to enrich the content of the library. The NAM is of the view that geographical diversity among lecturers represented in the library and at the regional courses should be increased. Furthermore, lecturers should be representatives of all principal legal systems of the world. The NAM is of the view that geographical diversity among lecturers represented in the Library and at the regional courses should be increased regarding the curriculum of courses, while the needs of each region should be addressed during courses. The synergies between international law and international relations could be included as a topic. Furthermore, under this topic, lecturers should elaborate on the development of international relations and theories on the basis of international law. The NAM would also like to highlight the role of the United Nations Information Centers in member states. These centers are fundamental tools for disseminating international law and provide access in multiple languages to resources, such as the United Nations Digital Library and the Yearbook of the United Nations. In conclusion, the NAM reaffirms its commitment to the program of assistance and urges all member states to ensure that the program's activities are well funded through the regular budget and other voluntary contributions. It is essential to guarantee the continued funding for the program, given its importance to ensure the widespread dissemination of international law as a toolkit in international relations. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iran for his statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cameroon on behalf of the African group.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I have the honor to deliver a statement on behalf of the African Group. We thank the Secretary General for his report on United Nations Program of Assistance in the teaching, studies, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law. Madam Chair, the African Group welcomes the continued implementation of the training program under the Program of Assistance, including the United Nations Regional Course as well as the International Law Fellowship Program. The group recognized the important contribution of this program to expanding international law training opportunities for professionals from developing countries. The African group particularly welcomed that the regional course in international law for Africa was held at the Economic Commission for Africa in Addis Ababa from 8 April to 1 May 2026 and was conducted in French. Applications were received from 407 candidates from 31 countries. A total of 22 participants drawn from 19 African countries attended the course, with equal representation of women and men, comprising 11 women and 11 men. Of the 22 participants, 20 received fellowship and two attended on a self-funded basis. The group appreciate the comprehensive curriculum of the Regional Course for Africa, which cover, among other subjects, international peace and security, diplomatic and consular relations, international human right law, international environmental law, state responsibility, peaceful settlement of international dispute, the law of the sea, international humanitarian and criminal law, the law of treaties, international trade and investment law, as well as the law and institution of the African Union. The group further welcomes the study visit to the African Union, during which the Legal Counsel of the African Union and staff member of her office brief participants. The African group acknowledges with appreciation the support provided by the African Union to the regional course for Africa, including assistance in disseminating information about the course, support during the course, and the organization of a visit to its premises, during which staff member of the African Union brief participants. We also acknowledge the support provided by the ECA, including the training venue, office space for staff of the Codification Division, dining facilities, equipment, and significant administrative and operational support. Madam Chair, the group also take note of the regional course in international law for Asia Pacific held in ESCAP in Bangkok from 17 November to 10 December 2025. The course received 173 applications from 34 countries and was attended by 24 participants, of whom 19 received fellowships and 5 attended on a self-funded basis. We acknowledge with appreciation the substantial support provided by the Government of Thailand, including accommodation and daily meals for Fellows, ground transportation for participants and lecturers, a welcome dinner and two cultural visits. We also acknowledge the support provided by ESCAP, including a training venue, office space and equipment, dining facility, and significant research and operational support. The African group also take note of the regional course in international law for Latin America and the Caribbean, held at ECLAC in Santiago from 6 to 29 May 2026. The course received 70 applications from 23 countries and was attended by 23 participants. of whom 20 received fellowship and three attended on a self-funded basis. We acknowledge also with appreciation the support provided by the government of Chile, which hosted participants in the framework of a lunch. We also acknowledge the support provided by ECLAC, including a training venue and room for the opening ceremony, office space for staff of the Codification Division and dining facilities. as well as equipment and administrative and operational support provided on a cost recovery basis. Madam Chair, the African welcomes the successful conduct of the International Law Fellowship Program in the HEC from 29 June to 31st July 2026. We take particular note of the strong demand for the program which received 847 applications from candidates from 121 countries. Of these, 403 applications were received from Africa, 330 from Asia Pacific, 34 from Eastern Europe, 70 from Latin America and the Caribbean, and 10 from Western Europe and other states. A total of 19 participants attended the program. The African group recognized the comprehensive nature of the training provided under the fellowship program, covering several core areas of international law. We acknowledge with appreciation the support provided by the Hague Academy of International Law, which provided a reduced tuition rate for participants as well as operational support for the program. We also acknowledge the Peace Palace Library for providing fellows with library access and research support and organizing a guided tour of its collection. The group further acknowledge the registry of the International Court of Justice for providing the training venue and significant administrative and operational support, including the organization of a guided tour of the Peace Palace for participants. Madam Chair, the African group note with concern the significant impact of the organization deteriorating security situation on the implementation of the program of assistance during the reporting period. uncertainty regarding access to regular budget fund delayed the planning and implementation of some of the training program and resulted in some expenses being financed from extra budgetary resources we further note with concern that temporary restriction on hiring across the secretariat prevented the recruitment of a video producer webmaster after the post became vacant in March 2026 not withstanding this constraint The African group comments the codification division for its continued development of the United Nation Audiovisual Library of International Law. During the reporting period, 25 new lectures, including a mini series were published together with two new introductory note in the history archive. We welcome effort to promote broader geographic and linguistic representation through an offsite recording session conducted in France. The group for our welcome, the publication of 13 new lectures in various language in audio format, the availability of all lecture series and mini series lecture on Spotify, and inclusion of transcript of newly published lecture on the library website. The African group also acknowledged the continuing work undertaken in the area of international law, training materials, and publication. The International Law Handbook in English and French and in both paper and digital format continues to serve as the main resources for the program training activity and is also disseminated upon request to academic institution and government training centers in developing countries. We further welcome the finalization of the United Nations Juridical Yearbook for 2018 and 2019 in English. as well as a volume of the report of international arbitral award. The African Group particularly welcomes the award of the 2026 Hamilton, Shirley and Meera Singh Memorial Fellowship on the Law of the Sea to Ms. Juliet Afra Obeng of Ghana. We note that the current fund balance available for disbursement for the fellowship taking into account programme support costs is estimated at approximately The group acknowledge with appreciation the contribution received since the previous report from Ireland, the Philippines, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in support of the fellowship. Madam Chair, the African group expresses its appreciation to member states that continue to provide voluntary financial contribution in support of the program of assistance. Contribution for the program generally were received from many countries. Contribution for the audiovisual library were received from many countries as well. On the financing of the program, the African group note that a total of approximately $500,000 was approved under the regular budget for 2026 for the International Law Fellowship Program, the regional course, and the audiovisual library. For 2027, non-post resources totaling approximately $1 million have been included in the proposed program budget for the implementation of the program of assistance, including the fellowship program, the three regional course, and the further development, dissemination, and maintenance of the audiovisual library. The African Group welcomes that the resources proposed for 2027 are intended to provide fellowship for a minimum of 20 professional from developing countries and countries with emerging economies to attend each of the training program. These resources will cover travel, accommodation, health insurance, study material, and stipend for living expenses, as well as costs associated with conducting and facilitating the program. The group further welcomes the intention of the Codification Division to make every effort to increase the number of fellowships provided under the regular budget and to continue seeking voluntary contribution for additional full or partial fellowships. The African Group further welcome the continued development of the audiovisual library, including through off-site recording of lectures at various location and the provision of necessary technical supply and materials. We encourage continued effort to mobilize voluntary and in-kind contribution to provide additional fellowship and further develop the audiovisual library. including by promoting greater access in developing countries. In conclusion, the African Group reaffirms its strong support for the United Nations Programme of Assistance as a vital mechanism for capacity building in international law. The strong demand for the Regional Course for Africa and the International Law Fellowship Programme demonstrate the continued importance of accessible international law training opportunities. We encourage continued effort to expand fellowship opportunities strengthen the implementation of the training program and ensure the continual development and accessibility of the audiovisual library, particularly for developing countries. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Cameroon for his statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished permanent representative of Philippines on behalf of ASEAN.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I am pleased to speak on behalf of the 11 member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN. ASEAN would like to extend its sincere appreciation to the Secretary-General for his report contained in document A/81/417, which covers the implementation of the UN Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law and activities planned for 2027. ASEAN also commends the efforts of the Advisory Committee and the Office of Legal Affairs, in particular the Codification Division, in conducting activities under the Programme of Assistance. ASEAN welcomes the continued conduct of all UN regional courses in international law and the International Law Fellowship Programme during the reporting period. We especially welcome the successful convening of the Regional Course in International Law for Asia-Pacific in Bangkok from 17 November to 10 December 2025, with participants from across our region, including ASEAN Member States. ASEAN looks forward to the convening of the UN Regional Course in International Law for Asia-Pacific in Thailand in November-December this year. ASEAN also takes note of the increasing demand for the program's courses as reflected in the Secretary General's report. The applications for the Asia-Pacific regional, each region remain high in the past year with 173 candidates competing for 24 places. This reflects a strong interest in capacity building and international law and underscores the program's great value to our region. ASEAN expresses concern regarding the liquidity situation of the organization and the uncertainty regarding access to regular budget resources, which has delayed the planning and implementation of the regional courses and the International Law Fellowship Program, with some activities drawing on extra budgetary resources. ASEAN thus welcomes the proposed additional resources for the program budget for 2027, for the International Law Fellowship Program and all three regional courses for Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean. We reiterate the importance of maintaining the regular conduct of these programs and ensuring that short-term financial constraints do not result in the deprioritization of in-person capacity building. ASEAN acknowledges the key role of and fully supports the program of assistance in promoting the rule of law at the national and international levels, which contributes to the strengthening of international peace and security. ASEAN continues to attach importance to traditional in-person training. Such programs provide opportunities not only for the acquisition of legal knowledge, but also for in-depth discussion and interaction among participants from different countries and legal traditions, thereby fostering cooperation and mutual understanding. At the same time, ASEAN recognizes the important complementary role played by digital resources. We appreciate the Codification Division's continued development of the UN Audiovisual Library of International Law. which now contains more than 600 lectures, as well as extensive historic archives and research materials. We especially welcome efforts to broaden access to these resources, including by making all lecture series and miniseries lectures available on Spotify, publishing lectures in podcast format in various languages, and providing transcripts of newly published lectures. These initiatives offer practical and cost-effective means of making international legal knowledge more accessible to a wider global audience, including developing countries. We are also pleased that the audiovisual library features lectures by experts from Southeast Asia and encourage the division to continue its efforts to ensure equitable geographical representation and diversity among the lecturers. Madam Chair. We applaud the Division's use of AI to generate transcripts of lectures, which has served to improve accessibility of the audiovisual library. We urge the Division to continue exploring ways to use emerging technology to enhance the user-friendliness of the audiovisual library while maintaining cost efficiency. ASEAN acknowledges the essential contribution of the recurrent and ad hoc UN legal publications prepared by the Codification Division, including the UN Juridical Yearbook and the Reports of International Arbitral Awards, as valuable resources for the teaching, study and practice of international law. In this regard, we underscore the need for the timely preparation, issuance and digital dissemination of these publications. ASEAN notes the Secretary-General's report, which recognized the contribution of the Programme of Assistance to Full, Equal and Equitable Participation at all levels in the international legal system. ASEAN notes the work undertaken by the Codification Division in supporting the alumni network by continuing to update a shared online repository of international law materials and publications. ASEAN encourages the Division to provide online interactive sessions for the alumni network, as it has done in the past, and suggests that these events be driven by alumni to minimize costs. We remain convinced that this platform will serve as a helpful tool for participants of the training programs. ASEAN, Madam Chair, strongly supports the funding activities of the program from the UN's regular budget. We encourage voluntary contributions to further expand and enhance the activities. This is all the more important in light of the ongoing liquidity crisis, which is poised to affect the regular conduct of vital capacity building initiatives under the program. ASEAN wishes to take this opportunity to thank all member countries who have made their continued contribution to the program of assistance. I conclude by reiterating ASEAN's continued commitment and support for the UN Programme of Assistance, with a view to further promoting international law, strengthening multilateral cooperation, and friendly relations among nations. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished Permanent Representative of Philippines, former Chair of this Committee. Good to see you here, Ambassador. Next on the list is the distinguished representative of Libya on behalf of the Arab Group.

In the name of God, the most merciful, the most gracious, Madam Chair. It is my honor to deliver the statement on behalf of the Arab Group. The Arab Group expresses its appreciation to the Secretary-General for his report on the activities of the UN Program of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination, and Wider Appreciation of International Law. The program constitutes one of the organization's most important tools for strengthening international peace and security and promoting friendly relations and cooperation among states. The program's activities also make a significant contribution to improving knowledge of international law, consolidating respect for the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, and promoting the rule of law at both the national and international levels. The group underscores the importance of ensuring the program's continued role and its evolving role in advancing and disseminating international law. We have taken note of the three United Nations regional courses in international law for Africa, Asia and the Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as the International Law Fellowship Program. In this regard, the group stresses the importance of balanced representation of the various legal traditions and legal systems in training programs, including through multilingualism. which is one of the fundamental principles of the United Nations. These regional courses should also address issues relevant to the regions concerned, alongside other core topics of international law. In this context, the Arab Group recalls that since the International Law Seminar for Arab States was held in Cairo in 2015 under the Programme of Assistance, No training courses were conducted in Arabic or specifically dedicated to Arab states has been organized. The Arab group emphasizes that the activities undertaken under the program of assistance are of paramount importance, particularly from the perspective of national capacity building. They are attracting increasing interest among diplomats, lawyers, judges, government officials, experts, and researchers in the field of law. In order to ensure that international law occupies a prominent place in the teaching of legal disciplines across Arab universities, the Arab Group encourages the Codification Division of the Office of Legal Affairs to organize regional courses in international law in Arabic for the Arab region. And these courses must reflect the Arab region's interests as a transregional geographical area with its own particular interest and characteristics. With regard to the International Law Fellowship Program organized in The Hague since 2010, which provides comprehensive training delivered by highly qualified scholars and practitioners of international law from different regions and legal systems. The Arab Group calls upon the Codification Division as the organizing entity to enhance the geographical diversity of lecturers participating in its seminars, particularly through the inclusion to the greatest extent possible of professors, experts, and specialists in international law from Arab universities and institutes. In this context, the Arab Group commends the efforts of the Office of Legal Affairs to increase the number of lecturers from Arab states. We encourage the continuation of these efforts, which contribute to greater inclusivity and equitable geographical representation of different legal systems within the program. In light of the current financial crisis and the constraints imposed by the UN 80 initiative, the Arab group expresses its concern regarding the semi-annual nature of training activities. We insist that this should remain a temporary measure rather than a permanent arrangement. We also express our appreciation for the Secretary-General's efforts to strengthen training activities in the field of international law and its dissemination, particularly through support for the establishment of an alumni network of participants in training programs organized under the program of assistance. The Arab Group welcomes the gradual updating of the UN electronic publications by the Codification Division, as this is an effective means of disseminating knowledge of international law at a broad scale. In this regard, we call upon the Division to ensure, to the greatest extent possible, parity among the official languages, particularly Arabic, in further development of the UN audiovisual library of international law. given that the library has a major contribution to the teaching and dissemination of international law worldwide. With regard to the publication activities undertaken by the Codification Division, particularly the publication of the summaries of judgments, advisory opinions, and orders of the International Court of Justice in English and French, which are considered the Court's only working languages, The Arab group considers that in the interest of equity, priority should instead have been given to publishing these summaries in the other official languages of the United Nations that are not considered working languages of the court. Such versions often constitute the only available reference through which many teachers, researchers, and university students may access the court's jurisprudence. The Arab Group further stresses the importance of publishing the United Nations Juridical Yearbook in Arabic. The yearbook contains a number of legal documents relating to the United Nations and intergovernmental organizations. Its publication in Arabic would enable Arabic-speaking legal specialists and researchers to benefit from this important resource. The Arab Group remains committed to the effectiveness and efficacy of the United Nations program of assistance in the teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law, and committed to its role in promoting knowledge and understanding of the rules of international law, respect for the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, the rule of law, and compliance with international law. Therefore, the group denounces, condemns, and finds it deeply troubling that Israel, the occupying power, should occupy a seat on the Advisory Committee. Israel continues its unlawful occupation of Arab territory and perpetuates repeated acts of aggression and crimes, including genocide, annexation, forced displacement, starvation, terrorism, rape, sexual violence, and apartheid. It openly defies the international community through its repeated violations of international law, international humanitarian law, resolutions embodying international legitimacy, decisions of International Court of Justice, and established international norms. It has shown disregard for the United Nations and its charter and targets UN personnel and criminalizes UN entities and agencies, particularly UNRWA. Israel, the occupying power, cannot belong to the spirit of the United Nations, and it is a glaring contradiction that Israel, the occupying power, which has violated international law day after day for 70, 80 years, should hold a position on a committee concerned with international law in an effort to improve its own image before an international community that has repeatedly condemned Israel's flagrant violations of international law. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, the Arab Group, Madam Chair, the Arab Group expresses its gratitude to the member states that have provided financial and in-kind contributions to increase the number of fellowships offered. At the same time, it reaffirms the importance of financing the activities of this program from the organization's regular budget. Thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Libya for his statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished permanent representative of Jamaica on behalf of CARICOM.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. I am honored to deliver this statement on behalf of the 14 member states of the Caribbean Community. And we align with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. We take note of the Secretary-General's report and thank the Codification Division of the Office of Legal Affairs for its continued efforts to strengthen the program of assistance in teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law, and expand access to international legal education and research resources, notwithstanding the ongoing financial and operational constraints. Chair for CARICOM, access to international legal education is essential to ensuring that all states, regardless of their size or available resources, can participate effectively in the international legal order. Strengthening national legal expertise enables our member states to safeguard their interests, fulfill their international obligations, and contribute meaningfully to multilateral deliberations and decision making. We therefore attach particular importance to ensuring that the program remains responsive to the evolving international legal priorities and capacity building needs of developing countries. Chair Karicom welcomes the continued implementation of the three United Nations regional courses in international law for Africa, Asia Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as the International Law Fellowship Program. These courses provide valuable opportunities for our governments' legal advisors, legal practitioners, academics, and other professionals to deepen their knowledge of international law and exchange experiences with colleagues from different regions and legal systems. We are encouraged by the growing demand for these opportunities as referenced in the report. We emphasize the importance of ensuring equitable access for qualified candidates from developing countries, including those from the Caribbean. We thank the government of Chile for its continued support in hosting the regional course in Santiago in partnership with ECLAC. Chair, CARICOM attaches particular importance to the law of the sea. The Caribbean's economic, social, and environmental well-being is closely connected to the oceans and their resources. We therefore welcome the provision in resolution 8163, authorizing the award of a minimum of one scholarship in 2026 under the Hamilton Shirley Amerasinghe Memorial Fellowship on the Law of the Sea to facilitate advanced training in this field. We encourage Member States and other interested partners to support this fellowship through voluntary means. Additionally, CARICOM values the United Nations Audiovisual Library of International Law as a resource for legal education, research, and professional development. noting that its lectures, historical archives, and legal publications provide valuable materials to support universities, government legal offices, and research institutions in the region. We appreciate the creative resourcefulness of the Codification Division in improving the accessibility of lecture materials through podcasts as part of practical efforts to preserve and broaden access to international legal resources. We commend the continued availability of materials in the official languages of the United Nations. CARICOM also recognizes the importance of the UN legal publications, including the International Law Handbook, Collection of Instruments, and its English and French versions. Continued dissemination of authoritative legal materials in both digital and printed formats remains essential to supporting legal research, education, and the development of national expertise. The continued implementation of the programme requires sustained, predictable financial and institutional support. CARICOM is concerned about the impact of the liquidity and budgetary situation of the UN on the programme, and in this connection, notes its significant impact on the programme delivery. including delays in the planning and implementation of regional courses, reliance on extra-budgetary resources to meet certain costs, and its staffing constraints affecting the Audio-Visual Library. In this regard, we welcome the inclusion of regular budget resources for its core activities in the 2027 proposed program budget and recognize with appreciation the voluntary contribution of Member States towards the continuation of the programme in 2026. To this end, we encourage Member States, international and regional organizations, universities and other interested partners to continue to contribute to the programme in support of its objectives. These contributions demonstrate the value of international solidarity and shared responsibility in supporting access to international legal education. Notwithstanding, they should complement rather than substitute for adequate regular budget financing. Chair, we also welcome cooperation between the codification division and regional institutions, universities, and other partners. CARICOM considers it important that the implementation of the program be informed by the needs of its beneficiaries. Information on applications, participation, regional representation, and available resources can assist in identifying priorities and guiding future activities. We also encourage continued attention to the geographical diversity of lecturers and experts, ensuring that the teaching of international law benefits from a broad range of legal traditions and regional experiences. Chair, in closing, Caricom reaffirms its support for the programme of assistance and looks forward to the continued cooperation among all parties for the benefit of present and future generations of international lawyers. I thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished Permanent Representative of Jamaica for his statement. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states. The candidate countries North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, the Republic of Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Georgia, as well as Monaco, San Marino, and the United Kingdom, align themselves with this statement. We thank the Secretary General for his report. We also thank the Advisory Committee And we are also particularly grateful to the Office of Legal Affairs and its Codification Division for their dedication and continuing efforts, which ensure that all activities of the programme were carried out despite the challenging liquidity situation. Multilateralism grounded in international law, including the UN Charter, must prevail to avoid a world of power politics and the law of the strongest. A wider knowledge of international law, which the program has promoted for over six decades, remains as necessary as ever. Chair, we welcome that all four training programs, the International Law Fellowship Program and the three regional courses for Africa, Asia Pacific, and Latin American Caribbean were held during the reporting period in line with resolution 80/163. Such in-person programs are invaluable. They offer unique opportunities for in-depth discussion, interaction and cooperation among participants. The training programmes continue to attract a very large number of applications, almost 1,500 during the reporting period, which confirms their continued relevance. We welcome the gender balance among participants, and we reiterate the importance of continuing to diversify the pool of lecturers and participants ensuring balance among different legal system and geographical regions, as well as gender imbalance among lecturers. At the same time, we know that the liquidity situation has had, again, a significant impact on the program, delaying the planning of the training programs and requiring part of their cost to be met from extra budgetary resources. We are deeply concerned by the organization's ongoing liquidity constraints, which carry serious operational implications. And we recall that the payment of assessed contributions in full and on time is a legal obligation under the Charter. In this context, we welcome that the activities of the programme continue to be financed through the regular budget and that the proposed programme budget for 2027 provides for all four training programmes. We also commend all those who have provided voluntary monetary and in-kind contributions, including States, host countries, the regional commissions, and partner institutions. Voluntary contributions remain important to complement and strengthen the program's efforts. Chair, we commend the Codification Division for continuing to develop the audiovisual library despite hiring restrictions that have left a post vacant since March 2026. We welcome the publication of new lectures, including in podcast format and in various languages, the availability of all lectures on an additional podcast platform, and the off-site recording of lecturers to broaden the library's geographical and linguistic representation. We encourage the division to continue these efforts, including by exploring ways to reach a wider audience, notably younger generations and students. We also continue to encourage the use of technology under adequate human oversight and with appropriate quality control to facilitate access to materials and courses in other languages at low cost in line with the UN strategic framework on multilingualism. In closing, the European Union and its member states reiterate their continued support for all the activities of the program of assistance and for the work of the Codification Division. We recognize the program's role in equipping legal professionals with the knowledge and networks to engage with international law in an increasingly complex environment. thereby strengthening multilateralism and the rule of law. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the European Union for his statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Moldova on behalf of a group.

Madam Chair, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, I have the honor to speak on behalf of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, North Macedonia, Ukraine, and my own country, the Republic of Moldova, on agenda item 79, the United Nations Program of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination, and Wide Appreciation of International Law. At the outset, we express our sincere gratitude to the Codification Division of the Office of the Legal Affairs for its continued commitment to strengthening international legal education and for ensuring that the knowledge and practice of international law remain accessible for legal professionals from all regions. Madam Chair, At a time when international law faces complex global challenges, the Program of Assistance continues to serve as a useful tool for supporting professional development and capacity building in developing countries. It provides practical training that helps build legal expertise and assist government officials and legal practitioners in fulfilling their professional responsibilities. For many professionals, diplomats, and government legal advisors, the program offers a unique opportunity to obtain structured, impartial, and high-quality training under the auspices of the United Nations. While other regional groups can also benefit from dedicated regional courses, participants from Eastern European countries rely primarily on the International Law Fellowship Program in The Hague as the principal in-person training opportunity offered under the program of assistance. Its continuation is therefore of particular significance for our region and for ensuring genuine geographical inclusivity within the program. We strongly support maintaining the fellowship program as an in-person program. The value of the fellowship cannot be measured only by the number of lectures delivered or participants trained. Its strength lies also in the direct interaction between participants and leading international law experts. the exchange of expertise among professionals from different legal systems and regions, and the established professional networks that contribute to greater mutual understanding and cooperation among nations. Madam Chair, the program's impact is largely demonstrated by the achievements of its alumni. Over the years, its participants have gone on to become senior diplomats, government legal advisors, judges of international and regional courts, academics, and leading practitioners of international law. Some former participants, including myself, are present in this very room today and are contributing to the work of the committee. This highlights a key benefit of the program. It helps build lasting expertise that participants can draw upon throughout their careers. We also welcome the program's broader activities, including the United Nations Audiovisual Library of International Law and the preparation and dissemination of essential publications. These resources make international legal knowledge available to a much wider community and complement the direct training provided through the fellowship and regional courses. Altogether, these components create a comprehensive ecosystem for the teaching, study, and dissemination of international law. Excellencies, The effectiveness of the program, however, depends on collective willingness to ensure that it has the resources necessary to continue its work. Therefore, the program of assistance requires predictable, stable, and adequate funding. Its long term sustainability should not depend on predominantly voluntary contributions or on uncertain financial circumstances from one year to another. The program should hold its proper place within the regular budget, while we encourage donor and contributing states to maintain and where possible increase their voluntary contribution. In the context of ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and strengthen the impact of United Nations activities, resources should also be directed towards initiatives and programs that deliver clear and lasting results. In this regard, the Programme of Assistance stands out as a recognized framework that helps to strengthen national capacities and facilitates access to legal education. Madam Chair, in conclusion, we express our strong support for the continuation of the Programme of Assistance and the provision of necessary resources to secure its sustainability, accessibility and geographical inclusivity. Having demonstrated its value over time, it is important to ensure that future generations, including professionals from Eastern European and other regions, can continue to benefit from it. Let us work together to preserve and strengthen this United Nations program, recognizing that advancing legal education contributes to the rule of law and multilateral cooperation.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Republic of Moldova for her statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Finland on behalf of the Nordic countries.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the five Nordic countries, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Finland. We would like to thank the Secretary-General for his latest report, which covers activities undertaken in the implementation of the Programme of Assistance in 2026, as well as those planned for 2027, and the related administrative and financial implications. We have taken note with concern of the reported liquidity situation of the Organization and its impact on the implementation of activities under the Programme. Madam Chair, the Nordic countries continue to be strong supporters of an international order based on the rule of law. Rules-based multilateral cooperation is indispensable for tackling global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, poverty and conflict, and it can yield positive results in addressing pressing global issues. At a time when respect for international law is being challenged in many respects, continued efforts to strengthen knowledge and understanding of international law are more important than ever. International law provides the framework through which states cooperate. We believe that the strength of the rules-based international order depends to a large extent on the professionalism, expertise, and commitment of those acting on behalf of states. By investing in education and the development of legal expertise, we invest in a future in which international law is understood, respected and relied upon as a foundation for peace, cooperation and justice. Madam Chair, through the programme of assistance, generations of government lawyers, judges and diplomats from around the globe have gained a deeper understanding of the body of law that governs our interconnected world. The Nordic countries welcome the continued efforts to ensure the diversity of the pool of lecturers and commend the strong gender balance among participants. The International Law Fellowship Program, as well as the regional courses, have been instrumental in providing international law training to young lawyers. These courses contribute not only to individual professional development, but also to strengthening the institutions that uphold the international rule of law. Since its establishment in 1965, the program of assistance has made a significant contribution to the goals of the United Nations by providing scholars and practitioners with access to high quality training and other resources in the field of international law. We commend the active and continued engagement of the Codification Division of the Office of Legal Affairs in carrying out its mandate regarding the program of assistance. The program has been a vital tool for the global dissemination of international law. We would also like to commend the advisory committee for its valuable work. The Nordic countries applaud the continuous development of the Audiovisual Library of International Law. Since 2008, it has provided high quality training and educational resources to an unlimited number of individuals and institutions around the globe free of charge. We welcome the efforts of the Codification Division to continue the development of materials produced and provided by the Audiovisual Library to better serve individuals and organizations in areas with limited internet connectivity. The continued efforts to improve accessibility, including through the provision of transcripts for newly published lectures, are a highly welcome development. In an era where artificial intelligence is transforming how information is created, distributed, and consumed, the Audiovisual Library stands out as a trusted and authoritative source of knowledge on international law. By providing reliable and freely accessible resources produced by leading experts, the Library helps ensure that high-quality legal information remains available to all. Madam Chair, the Nordic countries commend those Member States that have made voluntary contributions to the programme and encourage all States to consider making such contributions in the future to support its continued operation and development. We would like to express our continued support for the programme of assistance. Thank you, Madam Chair.

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

Thank you, Chair. The United Kingdom thanks the Secretary-General for his recent report on the implementation of the Programme of Assistance this year and on the activities planned for 2027. We commend the Codification Division of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs for its valuable work in implementing the Programme of Assistance, which continues to play a crucial role in enhancing knowledge of international law worldwide. We welcome, for example, the significant efforts made by the Codification Division to facilitate access to the Audiovisual Library to enable it to reach a wider audience. Through its activities, the programme also plays an important role in supporting the rule of law, in promoting friendly relations and in strengthening international peace and security. Upholding and promoting the rule of law, both at home and abroad, is a priority for the UK Government. We stand firm in our commitment to the importance of institutions that defend the international rule of law and our commitment to tackle shared problems that threaten the resilience of the international system. We continue to build on the United Kingdom's long-standing reputation as a global centre for legal thought, education and practice, including in international law. As a recent example, the fourth London Conference on International Law held earlier this month brought together over 700 leading judges, practitioners, academics and policymakers from the wider international law community to provide high level insights on the development of international law and future challenges. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Legal Directorate is pleased to chair the steering committee for the London Conference. Our legal directorate also delivers a programme of learning for colleagues across Government and our global network of embassies and high commissions to build awareness and knowledge of international law in order to enable good policy making and to support compliance with the law. That includes providing guidance and training on treaty practice. We note the references in the report to the impact of the liquidity crisis on the implementation of the programme of assistance. The United Kingdom is pleased to have made voluntary contributions this year to the Programme of Assistance. This has included support for the International Law Seminar, the Hamilton Shirley Amerasinghe Memorial Fellowship, the ICJ Judicial Fellowship Trust Fund, ILC Special Rapporteurs Trust Fund, the Trust Fund for the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf, and the BBNJ Clearinghouse Mechanism. We look forward to continuing our support for the Programme of Assistance through voluntary contributions next year, and we would like to encourage other States to continue their support. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom for his statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Portugal aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union and its member states and would like to offer a few additional remarks in its national capacity. Madam Chair, we would like to begin by thanking the Secretary General for his report on the implementation of the UN program of assistance in the teaching study, dissemination and wider appreciation of international law and welcome the recommendations contained therein for the coming years. More than 60 years after its establishment, the program remains widely recognized for its active contribution to promoting better knowledge of international law as a means of strengthening international peace and security and promoting friendly relations and cooperation among states. Madam Chair, the program continues to respond to the ever-increasing demand for training and access to resources in international law. Its recurring initiatives, such as International Law Fellowship Program and the regional courses in international law, provide an important opportunity to many, particularly from developing countries, who otherwise might not have access to such training or resources in international law. The continued strong interest generated by the program's training activities clearly demonstrates the relevance and importance of preserving access to these opportunities. The regional courses in particular have strong have long constituted an important vehicle for expanding training opportunities in international law. In this regard, Portugal therefore welcomes their continuation on an annual basis. We also welcome the continuation of the International Fellowship program and the regional courses among the activities foreseen for 2027. For these opportunities to reach the widest possible audience. As we stated in previous years, states should continue improving awareness of the program and disseminating information on its activities in their countries, namely in universities and their civil societies, so that students, young scholars and young professionals are aware of its existence, as well as its initiatives and resources. Madam Chair, Portugal would like to once again commend the outstanding work of the Office of Legal Affairs, including its Codification Division, for its activities in support of dissemination of international law and implementation of the programme, while ensuring its administrative and financial efficiency. Among these efforts, we particularly praise the maintenance and further development of the UN Audiovisual Library of International Law. which remains the most useful tool for the study and dissemination of international law at the global level and continues to foster digital, linguistic, and geographic inclusion. Madam Chair, as so many other UN initiatives, the program continues to face financial challenges. The Secretary General's report confirms that the financial and liquidity crisis situation of the organization continues to affect implementation of activities under the program. We welcome the fact that its activities continue to be included in a member state finance regular budget of the United Nations. We also welcome the invitation contained therein in resolution 80/163 for the secretariat to continue exploring practical solutions to support the planning and implementation of the training programs with a view to identifying more effective measures to ensure the continuation of the program. Voluntary contributions remain an important source of additional support. Portugal is therefore pleased to have made a voluntary contribution to the programme in 2025 and expresses its expectation regarding the possibility of renewing this contribution this year. My delegation encourages other Member States and interested stakeholders to continue supporting these activities. We also believe that it remains useful to explore new and creative funding mechanisms, including partnerships with universities, NGOs, research institutes, and other relevant institutions so that the program can fulfill its mission in a financially sustainable way. Madam Chair, as a member of the Advisory Committee, Portugal would like to conclude its statement by reiterating its pledge towards the program and reaffirming its commitment to continue working in the promotion and dissemination of international law as a means to build a fair, free, and peaceful international society as envisioned in the Charter of the United Nations. Thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal for her statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. I had a technical issue. And I didn't have the audio-visual library. Anyway, I would like to thank the OLA for their work and the Codification Division, specifically, for their efforts. to continue this program, this excellent program, despite the financial context. Chile has an historic commitment to the teaching, study, dissemination, wider appreciation of international law. More than 60 years since resolution 2099/20, the assistance program remains a fundamental activity of the United Nations to promote the rule of law internationally peace and security, and friendly relations and cooperation between states. In this regard, we appreciate the work of the OLA Codification Division, developing excellent resources, the audiovisual library on international law, and measure to improve the accessibility of this audiovisual library, including making their conferences available in podcast format and recently uploading them to Spotify and also updating the legal publications have all contributed to disseminating knowledge on international law across the world. Madam Chair, the regional courses are an essential instrument for the development of the skills of both jurists and diplomats, in particular in developing countries. Chile attaches particular importance to the UN Regional Course on International Law for Latin America and the Caribbean that our country has been honoured to host in Santiago, Chile, since 2017. This year, the regional course at CEPAL took place between the 6th and 29th of May. 60 applications were received from 23 different countries, many different professionals, 20 of which received fellowships attended, and these figures reflect the interest in our region in this program. Chile hopes that we'll be able to continue to host this course over the next years. We think that it's highly relevant to promote the participation of professors from our own region and to pay attention to the new challenges that international law faces, which include those to do with artificial intelligence. Alumni networks also contribute to bolstering the programme and providing continuity to the links established during the course. In the complex and uncertain international environment currently, international law is not just a theoretical exercise, but rather the basis on which nations build their foreign policies and peacefully settle their disputes and promote global stability. Limiting access to the technical training that the program provides expands gaps in the application of law and deprives the international community from a diversity of approaches and interpretations that constitutes the cornerstone of true multilateralism. Inclusive legal training is the only guarantee for developing countries to be able to participate in real conditions of equality in the debates and decision making bodies of the international system. Chair Chile is concerned that the liquidity difficulties that the organization faces continue to cause uncertainty in the regular organization of the program and the carrying out of its three regional courses and the efforts of the General Assembly. And we remind you that in paragraph 9 of Resolution 8163, we explicitly request the Secretary General to continue include the resources necessary for the programs for 2027 and also for the fellowship program, regional courses and the audio-visual library. We call for predictable financing from the UN budget. Madam Chair, we express our thanks to the Member States that made voluntary contributions and urge them to continue the strategic support. This remains important to ensure the implementation throughout this year, although these should not replace regular financing. As a member of the advisory committee on the program, Chile reiterates its commitment to this program of assistance and to it continuing. And this is because we are convinced that the teaching, study, and dissemination of international law are fundamental for the strengthening of multilateralism. Thank you very much, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Chile for her statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Poland.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Poland aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union, and I would like to add a few additional remarks in my national capacity. Distinguished delegates, my delegation expresses profound appreciation to the Office of Legal Affairs, in particular to its Codification Division, for the continued implementation on the UN Programme of Assistance. The programme remains one of the most important instruments for strengthening capacity in national law, especially among developing countries. We note with satisfaction the broad range of activities undertaken during the reporting period. In particular, we commend the successful organization of the regional courses, International Law for Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as International Law Fellowship Program. These courses provide participants with valuable opportunities to deepen the understanding of core areas of international law. They also contribute to regional dialogue and cooperation on contemporary legal challenges. In this context, we would like to reiterate the importance of ensuring wider geographical representation of the lecturers. We believe it to be an added value in the teaching dissemination and wider appreciation of international law. Madam Chair, distinguished delegates, my delegation attaches special importance to the United Nations Audiovisual Library of International Law. The library has become an indispensable global educational resource. Poland therefore supports efforts to develop it further, including through our voluntary contribution. However, the geographical diversity of its lecturer series should also be enhanced. Broader representation of scholars, including those practicing in Central and Eastern Europe, would certainly contribute contribute to a more balanced reflection of the plurality of perspectives that characterize the contemporary international law. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Poland for her statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of France.

Thank you, Madam Chair. France wishes to reiterate its commitment to the United Nations program of assistance in the teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law. As the European Union has underscored in their statement that France, of course, aligns itself with, The goals to disseminate international law established close to 60 years ago now make this program a precious tool for the rule of law and better cooperation between states. Its methods, in turn, are being constantly modernized in order to better harness the newest technology tools. My delegation reiterates its congratulations to the Codification Division for the essential work that it is undertaking and particularly underscores how important the regional courses on international law are, as well as the International Law Fellowship Programme. The training activities engaged in this regard are an opportunity for participants not only to strengthen their knowledge of international law, but also to build lasting links thanks to the alumni network. The French delegation also welcomes the efforts undertaken by the Secretariat to ensure that attendance and conference participants reflect the diversity geographic and linguistic diversity and the representation of the main legal systems across the world. My delegation also welcomes the organization of recordings of off-site conferences to enable them to reach different geographical areas, languages and legal systems, like the session organized that took place at the University of Paris, Ponty-on-Assas. We also reiterate our strong commitment to multilingualism, which is a fundamental value of the United Nations. We congratulate the Codification Division for having continued to use the International Law Handbook in its English and French version. And we also applaud the addition of 12 new conferences in English, Spanish and French to the website. And in addition to this, we could add conferences in other languages like Arabic, like other speakers that took the floor before me said. We encourage the Codification Division to continue these efforts. Madam Chair, despite the progress and success, France can only be concerned by the impact that the liquidity crisis is having on all of the programs of assistance. We particularly regret that the temporary hiring freezes mean that it's not possible to fill vacant posts and the constraints that this has created, in particular for the work improving the AV library. In these difficult times for multilateralism, training on international law must remain a priority of the organization, and we encourage states who are able to do so to make voluntary contributions in order to support the program of assistance. Thank you.

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

Madam Chair, Cameroon aligns itself with the statement that it delivered on behalf of the African Group, as well as that delivered by Iran on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. We'd like to share the following comments in our national capacity. My delegation thanks the Secretary-General for the report on the implementation of the Programme of Assistance of the UN with regard to teaching, study, dissemination, and a wider appreciation of international law. We also thank the Chair of the Advisory Committee of the POA, as well as the Legal Counsel of the UN for the insights they provided. for the work of our committee. Cameroon reaffirms its full support for this program established by the General Assembly in 1965, which for more than six decades now has been helping to promote understanding of international law, strengthening national capacity, and fostering friendly relations and cooperation between states. In an international context marked by persistent conflict and a growing number of transnational challenges, the acceleration of technological transformations, and the need to consolidate multilateralism, the program of assistance is of particular importance. The promotion of rule of law internationally cannot be limited to the existence of norms and institutions. It also requires states to have knowledge, competencies, and the means necessary to take active part in the drafting, interpretation, and application of these norms. This is how the POA constitutes a concrete instrument for strengthening the universality of international law, reducing inequalities in capacity between states, and consolidating an international order based upon rule of law. Madam Chair, my delegation commends the work carried out by the Codification Division of the Office of Legal Affairs and the implementation of the various elements of the program, especially the International Law Fellowship Program, the regional courses in international law, the audiovisual library of international law, as well as the activities involving the publication dissemination of legal resources. Cameroon believes that the value of these initiatives lies both in their academic quality as well as their ability to respond to to address the concrete needs of Member States. It's important here that training opportunities continue to be developed, that their accessibility be expanded, and that developing countries be able to benefit from these resources under equitable circumstances. My delegation encourages the Secretariat, therefore, to pursue efforts to increase the number of fellowship recipients, as well as regional courses, while ensuring a balanced geographic distribution of the opportunities provided. We also believe that Legal capacity building should not be viewed as a sporadic initiative, but rather as a lasting investment in the capacity of states to defend their legal positions, to negotiate international instruments, to participate in the work of UN bodies, and to implement their obligations under international law. In this vein, Cameron reiterates its commitment to strengthening the international law regional courses for Africa. We encourage considering modalities that would allow it to expand its impact on the continent, including through diversifying the locations where training is offered, development partnerships with African universities and diplomatic institutions and by promoting exchanges between practitioners, researchers, and public officials. In this regard, Cameroon renews its proposal to consider the Institute of International Relations of Cameroon, or IIRIC, in Yaounde as an institution that could host a future version of this regional course, based on its experience with diplomatic training and training in international relations, the Institute could contribute to strengthening training in international law in Africa and in consolidating links between academic circles and public administrations in Africa. My delegation believes that such a prospect ought to be explored together with the Secretariat in accordance with the modalities for the program of assistance and as long as there is adequate resourcing. Madam Chair, the evolution of the international system also means that there needs to be a consistent adaptation of the content of training for emerging legal questions. The rapid development of AI, the transformation of societies digitally, the activities taking place in outer space, the energy transition and challenges linked to environmental protection, among other issues, all raise important questions when it comes to the application, interpretation, and the evolution of international law. These questions call for rigorous legal reflection based upon the applicable rules and principles, as well as inclusive participation of states in the examination of these rules. It's important for developing countries to have necessary skills and competencies to contribute to these debates, to express their concerns, and to take part in developing international legal responses. We therefore encourage the Secretariat to examine the possibility of further incorporating these topics into the trainings provided by the POA, taking into account the needs expressed by states and the work carried out in UN bodies. My delegation underscores the importance of the Audiovisual Library of International Law of the UN, which is a precious tool to disseminate access to legal knowledge. We encourage pursuing the enrichment of this library, including by diversifying the lecturers whose videos appear on the library, as well as the regions represented and the languages. In closing, we reaffirm our commitment to the UNPOA, which is essential to the dissemination and promotion of international law. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Madam Chair. The delegation of the Kingdom of Morocco wishes to thank the Secretary-General for his report. We reiterate our support to the UN Programme of Assistance in the teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law. This program contributes to strengthen knowledge of international law and the strengthening of the rule of law. We welcome the convening of the three regional courses within the framework of the program despite financial constraints. African countries attach great importance to these programs. 407 participants have provided their applications, while 22 managed to participate in the course held in the African region. Therefore, there is a dire need to strengthen opportunities to participate in such courses. Morocco was amongst the countries that benefited from these regional courses. and we appreciate the efforts made in order to enable the participation of our Moroccan participant in the Addis Ababa course. As for the Law of the Sea, we welcome the efforts made by the Doualas in capacity building, namely regarding the implementation of the BBNJ Agreement. We encourage the leveraging of emerging technologies, including AI, to strengthen the dissemination of international law and the leveraging of international law materials. We reiterate our commitment to multilingualism. Materials must be provided in the six languages of the United Nations to allow all participants and all interested from benefiting from these materials. We stress the importance of providing funding for regional courses from the regular budget in addition to voluntary contributions. We are convinced that the regional courses constitute an investment in the interests of Member States through capacity building and increase of knowledge in international law. I thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Morocco, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Chair, China aligns itself with the statement made by Uruguay on behalf of G77 and China. International law serves as a guardrail for maintaining international order. The current international situation is turbulent, and challenges to international peace and security continue to arise. Strengthening the teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law will help promote compliance with international law and peaceful settlement of disputes. China supports the program in continuing to play its role in this regard. China thanks the UN Secretary-General for the reports submitted this agenda item and commends OLA's codification division and dual tools and other relevant bodies for steadily advancing the implementation of the program during the reporting period. China encourages the program to actively expand the methods and channels for disseminating international law, including providing multilingual training materials on international law, using digital technology to make resources widely accessible, and accelerating the codification and publication of the latest international law materials. Chair, Chinese President Xi Jinping has put forward a global governance initiative in which adherence to international rule of law is one of its core principles. China has consistently attached great importance to the teaching and study of international law and made donations to the program for many years. This year, China once again donated $27,000 to the program, earmarked for priority areas such as training programs and audiovisual library. and supporting the program through concrete actions. China also strengthened research and exchanges in international law by organizing seminars and establishing cooperative projects. Last month, the China International Forum on Rule of Law was successfully held in Shenzhen, attended by nearly 300 legal professionals from 38 countries and seven international organizations. This past June, the Fourth Forum on Developing Countries and International Law was held in Beijing, attended by representatives from international organizations such as UN, African Union, Asian-African Law Association, as well as international law scholars and legal professionals from various countries. The fifth rule of law for BRI cooperation and study programs and the ninth China AALCO exchange and research program on international law have been successfully held, effectively promoting the capacity building in international law among developing countries. Chair, adherence to international rule of law is inseparable from the teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law. China is willing to work with all parties to continue to support the implementation of the program with a view to helping strengthen the foundation for upholding international law. Thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of China for her statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovakia.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Slovakia aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union and its member states. At the outset, allow me to thank the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report and commend the Office of Legal Affairs, particularly the Under-Secretary-General for Legal Affairs and UN Legal Counsel, the Secretary of the Advisory Committee on the Programme of Assistance, and the director of the Codification Division and his team for their continued dedication to the successful implementation of the program of assistance. Slovakia remains a strong supporter of the program and all its pillars. We firmly believe that promoting the teaching, study, and dissemination of international law is essential to strengthening the rule of law at both national and international levels. We particularly welcome the completion of all three United Nations regional courses in international law and the International Law Fellowship Programme during the reporting period, despite the significant challenges posed by the United Nations liquidity crisis. At the same time, the financial difficulties experienced during the reporting period underscored the importance of ensuring adequate, predictable, and sustainable funding from the United Nations regular budget. Voluntary contributions should complement rather than substitute regular budget resources. They nevertheless remain indispensable for addressing funding gaps expanding fellowship opportunities, and supporting the continued development of the programme. In this regard, I am pleased to announce that the Slovak Republic, current member of the Advisory Committee, has recently made a voluntary contribution of 10,000 euros to the Programme of Assistance, reaffirming our long-standing commitment to its objectives and continued success. Madam Chair, We are particularly encouraged by the exceptionally high number of applications received for the training programs. This remarkable interest demonstrates the growing demand for high quality international legal education and underlines the importance which a new generation of legal professionals attaches to the international law. We also support the development of alumni networks to foster lasting professional connections knowledge sharing and cooperation among international legal professionals beyond the duration of the training programs. At the same time, we encourage continued efforts to ensure equitable geographical representation and gender balance, both among participants and lecturers, while maintaining the highest academic and professional standards. We also support regular review and updating of training curricula to reflect contemporary developments and emerging challenges. Slovakia also attaches particular importance to the United Nations Audiovisual Library of International Law. As a freely accessible source of high quality legal education and research materials, It offers invaluable learning opportunities to an unlimited number of users worldwide. We therefore welcome the continued expansion of the library, including the publication of 25 new lectures and 16 lectures in podcast format during the reporting period, despite staffing and financial constraints. Madam Chair, in conclusion, Slovakia reiterates its strong support for the program of assistance and its continued development. We remain convinced that investing in international legal education is an investment in the rule of law, international cooperation, and a stronger international legal order. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Slovakia for her statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of.

Guatemala.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Guatemala aligns itself with the statement made on behalf of the G77 and the statement on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement, and in our national capacity, we would like to make a few comments. The delegation of Guatemala thanks the Secretary-General for the report contained in document A/81/417. This makes a significant contribution to the strengthening of the rule of law on both the national and international levels, encouraging the teaching, study, dissemination and wider appreciation of international law and broadening training opportunities for participants from developing countries. Madam Chair, the political constitution of Guatemala contains more than 20 references to the international legal order, which is a reflection of the importance and the influence of international law on the political, legal and social life of our country. Among these is article 149, which establishes that Guatemala shall govern its relations with other states pursuant with the principles, rules, and practices of international law in order to contribute to the maintenance of liberty and peace, the respect and defense of human rights, and the strengthening of the international democratic and institutions that guarantee mutual benefits and equitable benefits for all states. This constitutional mandate can only be fulfilled if domestically we teach and understand international law. As well is well known, international law does not enforce itself. It's domestic law that opens the door for its enforcement and it is lawmakers, judges, prosecutors, and national officials who ultimately determine the efficacy of international law. Madam Chair, the teaching and dissemination of international law is not an end in itself. Rather, it is a condition required to ensure that it is effectively incorporated into domestic legal order. Fulfilling the international obligations of the state depend largely on state officials being aware of them and understanding them. A growing number of treaties expressly compel states to adopt domestic legislative measures. The two conferences of plenipotentiaries convened by this commission clearly illustrate this point. The ultimate goal of the instruments that come out of these conferences is for states to adopt the domestic legislation required to make them operational. However, the adoption of a treaty is not the end, it's just the beginning. Its life and its survival and full efficacy will depend on lawmakers, civil servants and justice officials having the training required to incorporate that content into domestic law and to enforce and interpret this in light of our international obligations that's why the teaching and dissemination of international law ultimately is very important and it's relevant for countries to participate in this program and to involve national officials from developing countries madam chair for Guatemala international law is conceived from an aspirational perspective the state on occasion assumes international commitments before all of the domestic conditions are met for their full implementation and the goal is for these commitments to then lead to a transformation of our legislation and institutions. From this perspective, teaching international law can enable us to train specialists that are able to support these processes domestically and to participate effectively in multilateral fora, so that in this way the country can contribute actively to the development of international law and not just be a recipient of its norms. Madam Chair, an additional comment on the deterioration of the liquidity situation of the organization can be found in the document that will be uploaded to the webpage of the Sixth Committee. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Guatemala for his statement and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nigeria.

Madam Chair, Nigeria aligns itself with the statement delivered by Cameroon on behalf of the Africa Group, Iran on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement, and Uruguay on behalf of G77, and China, and we seek to add these additional comments in national capacity. We thank the Secretary General for his report content in document S/81/417 and the Codification Division of the Office of Legal Affairs for implementing the programme of assistance under difficult conditions. As a member of the Advisory Committee on the programme, Nigeria took part in its 61st session on 6 October 2026, chaired by Ghana, and fully shares the strong support it expressed for the programme. Madam Chair, the program was established by the General Assembly in resolution 209920 at a time when many states, a large number of them in Africa, had recently gained independence. Its rationale was simple and remains valid. International law can strengthen peace and friendly relations among states only if it is known, understood, and applied by all of them. Newly independent states needed lawyers and diplomats able to negotiate treaties, defend their interests before international bodies, and contribute to the development of the law. Over six decades, the International Law Fellowship Program, the regional courses, the audio-visual library created in 2008, and the Division's legal publications have trained and equipped generations of legal advisors, judges, academics, and diplomats from the developing world. The report shows that the demand remains greatest in Africa. Of the 847 applications for the 2026 fellowship program, 403 came from Africa. The regional course for Africa held in Addis Ababa in April and May 2026 received 407 applications from 31 countries. Nigeria is grateful that one of its nationals took part in this year's fellowship program and thanks the Economic Commission for Africa and the African Union for their support to the regional course. Madam Chair, the program must keep pace with the law, its core curriculum from the law of treaties to the peaceful settlement of disputes remain essential, however. Legal advisors in developing countries now face questions that were not imagined in 1965. The governance of artificial intelligence and its military applications, cyber operations and the law governing outer space and the use of space resources are emerging areas that deserve attention. We encourage the Codification Division to include seminars on these emerging areas in the regional courses and the fellowship program, and to expand the audiovisual library accordingly, including through the use of artificial intelligence to improve its accessibility, as proposed in the Advisory Committee. Madam Chair, none of this is possible without secure funding. The report records that the liquidity crisis delayed the planning of every training program in 2026, and that their cost had to be met partly or wholly from extra budgetary resources. The post of video producer for the audiovisual library could not be filled. Nigeria, therefore, strongly supports the inclusion of the resources requested for 2027 in the regular budget and calls for its approval. regular budget funding is the only guarantee of the program's continuity we also thank the states that have made voluntary contributions and encourage others to contribute according to their means furthermore Nigeria also advocates an increase in the number of self-funded participants in the regional courses in 2026 only 10 participants across the trade courses attended on a self-funded basis two of them in Self-funded places allow more candidates to benefit at no cost to the program without reducing the number of fellowships. We encourage the Secretariat to reserve more places for them and invite governments, universities, bar associations, national legal training institutions, and the private sector to sponsor candidates. Nigeria remains committed to the program of assistance and will continue to support it in the advisory committee and in this committee. I thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria for his statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Senegal.

Madam Chair, my delegation aligns itself with this statement by Cameroon, the Republic of Iran, on behalf of the African Group, the G77 and China, and the Non-Aligned Movement. We'd like to now make a few comments in our national capacity. Senegal would like to thank the Secretary-General first and foremost for publishing this report, A/81/417. We commend the outstanding work carried out by the OLA. and especially by its Codification Division and Division of Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea in carrying out this implementing this program of assistance. We pay tribute to the Advisory Committee as well, led by Ambassador Samuel Yaa Kuma of Ghana. Madam Chair, despite the liquidity crisis that continues to affect the UN, the four training programs were able to be carried out. The regional courses in international law of Bangkok, Addis Ababa, and San Jose, as well as the International Law Fellowship Program, were all implemented. And this is a demonstration of the commitment of the member states, the office, and the host countries. And we have followed with keen interest the course for Africa, regional course for Africa, which was carried out in Addis Ababa, in which many participated. The fellowship in the African Union helped to stimulate study of international law on the African continent. And participation of Senegal in the regional course took place through various professors and students that clearly illustrated that the program makes a great deal possible. a community of knowledge fueled by a diversity of teaching, reality, and issues. My delegation also welcomes the gender parity achieved among the African participants, and we encourage further participation of women in these courses. However, demand remains much higher than supply. The regional courses for Africa received 407 candidacies for only 23 slots, and the fellowship program had 847 applications for only 19 slots. Therefore, we call on the Advisory Committee to increase the number of fellowships while maintaining the number of slots for self-funded participants. In addition, we encourage the Office to continue its laudable efforts toward multilingualism. Senegal, therefore, commends the holding in Accra in April 28th to 30th of this year of a training for -- a Francophone training for countries of West Africa. We also and then the holding of a similar workshop of a francophone seminar for North Africa and other countries. We have hosted the first edition of this workshop together with the OLA and France, and we welcome the constant commitment of the Office to promoting international law in the francophone sphere. Senegal, in addition, congratulates the Ghanaian laureate of the Amerensin award on the law of the sea, and also commend the important role played by the network of former participants, such as who assisted with the call for applications. Madam Chair, international law should not be limited to classrooms. Senegal also commends the efforts made by the office with regard to the audio-visual library of international law, especially the publication of 25 new conferences. as well as putting audio versions online in various languages and holding recording sessions off-site in France to increase the diversity of lecturers. We call for posts for video producers, which was frozen due to hiring restrictions to be resumed as soon as possible. For institutions with limited internet access, this tool is extremely useful. Therefore, Senegal welcomes the continued publication and dissemination of the International Law Handbook toward universities in developing countries. Madam Chair, the program has not been spared by the liquidity crisis. This has led to delays in planning and in the holding of certain courses, including the regional course for Asia and the Pacific, which was not able to be funded except through extra budgetary funding. If the liquidity crisis has a clear impact, it should still not justify a weakening of this essential instrument, this requires further predictable yearly funding. Therefore, Senegal calls for efficient resourcing for the program for 2027. In closing, Senegal reaffirms its firm commitment to the program of assistance and assures the Office of Legal Affairs of its complete support for the implementation of the activities plan for 2027. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Senegal for her statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of El Salvador.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. The Republic of El Salvador aligns itself with the statement made by the delegation of Uruguay on behalf of the G77 in China, and in our national capacity, we wish to make the following comments. For my delegation, capacity building does not only ensure the dissemination and a better understanding of international law, but rather it also strengthens cooperation and solidarity between nations, contributes to reducing asymmetries, and encourages sustaining a stable and transparent international legal order. It's by strengthening capacity building that United Nations move from being perceived as a distant and abstract organization and become instead a tangible, concrete organization with real impact on people's lives and on the capacities of states. It's for this reason that El Salvador attaches particular importance to the United Nations program of assistance in the teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law. and through this program we strengthen the human and institutional capacities of professionals working on the law, enabling the beneficiaries to reflect a full participation in equal conditions. Madam Chair, my delegation is grateful for the valuable efforts undertaken by the Codification Division of the Office for Legal Affairs of the United Nations. and the Division on Ocean Affairs and Law of the Sea to ensure the implementation of this programme of assistance, including the organisation and implementation of regional courses on international law and the International Law Fellowship Programme. We are aware that the financial situation of the organisation remains truly critical. During the previous session, There are even doubts raised on the possibility of being able to fully organize the program. In this regard, my delegation, alongside the valuable support of other Member States, promoted retaining this mandate each year in the corresponding resolution. and having it reviewed on an annual basis. Member States have opted for continuity because efforts to build a more effective organisation that is better tailored to the challenges of the day must not, under any circumstance, dispense with initiatives to strengthen the capacities that directly benefit our countries. That is why we are very happy that, this year, we were able to organise the programme. Madam Chair, my delegation was honored to be part of the 23 countries that participated in the Regional Course on International Law for Latin America and the Caribbean that took place from the 6th to 29th of May 2026 at the headquarters of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, CEPAL, in Santiago, Chile. And we're very grateful for the efforts made to organize the program, as well as for the significant support provided by the Chilean government. While we do We are still concerned that the liquidity situation had significant repercussions on the development of the original course due to uncertainty on access to funds from the ordinary budget. My delegation would like to reiterate the observations that we already voiced in the advisory committee on this issue. We particularly wish to invite exploring alternative measures that contributes to strengthening the sustainability of the program, including cooperation with academic institutions from the host country and the promotion of the broadest representation possible of the different legal systems in the makeup of the teaching faculty of the regional courses. I also wish to use this opportunity to recognize and express my thanks for the voluntary contributions made by donor countries to the programme. We are convinced that those contributions will strengthen its implementation, without prejudice to the fundamental importance of ensuring access to resources from the regular budgets. In terms of the curriculum, we recognise the relevance of the subjects currently included in it, my delegation wishes to invite considering including contemporary topics or colloquia which respond to the emerging realities of states. An example of this could be the inclusion of a dissertation or a seminar on the value of the national positions made by states in relation to the applicability of international law to cyberspace as part of efforts to promote responsible behavior in the use of ICTs. Furthermore, in terms of the shared bibliographical material, we encourage, as far as possible, strengthening the linguistic diversity of resources and facilitating access to them through digital platforms that enable them to be viewed and referenced by the participants. Madam Chair, in terms of the development and maintenance of the United Nations audiovisual library on international law. We're satisfied by the inclusion of updated content as well as modernization, the means of dissemination for the teaching and studying of international law, including uploading it to platforms like Spotify. My delegation echoes the proposals made during the deliberations of the advisory committee to strengthen the accessibility and visibility of the audiovisual library, among other measures. harnessing tools like artificial intelligence. Madam Chair, in the interest of time, this agenda item for us will remain a priority for El Salvador. on the programme of work of this committee, and we reiterate the fact that we stand ready to be constructive, to follow up on the reports on the implementation of this mandate, as well as to participate actively in the negotiation of the relevant resolution. Thank you very much.

Distinguished representative of El Salvador for her statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Philippines.

Thank you, Madam Chair, Excellencies, colleagues. The Philippines aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of ASEAN, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the G77 and China. The Philippines attaches great importance to the United Nations program of assistance in the teaching, study, dissemination, and wider application of international law. We thank the Secretary-General for his report and the Secretariat for its presentation. We also express our appreciation to the Advisory Committee, under the leadership of Ghana, for its work in guiding the implementation and continued development of the Programme. The Philippines is honoured to be part of this Committee. We likewise thank the Under-Secretary-General for Legal Affairs and United Nations Legal Counsel, Ms. Elinor Hammerschlag, for her leadership and earnest efforts to ensure the continued delivery of the program in a manner that responds to the needs and aspirations of member states, particularly developing countries, despite constraints. The Philippines regards the program as an important contribution to strengthening the capacity of states to participate effectively in the development, application, and wider application of international law. We note the continuing strong demand for the regional courses in international law and International Law Fellowship Program. The Fellowship Program received 847 applications from 121 countries in 2026, while 19 participants were able to take part. This demonstrates the continuing relevance of these programs and the importance of maintaining and, where possible, expanding opportunities for participation. The Philippines welcomes efforts to make the resources of the program more widely accessible And we note with appreciation the continued development of the audiovisual library, including the publication of lectures in podcast format and their availability through Spotify. 13 new lectures were published in podcast format during the period under review. These platforms provide additional means of making international legal materials available to a wider audience. We likewise attach importance to the continued development of the curricula of the regional courses and fellowship program. The fundamental areas of international law must remain at the core of these programs. At the same time, the curricula should remain responsive to developments in international law and to the needs of member states. We therefore support the inclusion as appropriate of new and emerging issues of international law including developments related to intergovernmental processes, including treaty processes emanating from this Committee, alongside the Programme's established areas of instruction. Madam Chair, the Philippines notes with concern the impact of the liquidity situation on the implementation of the Programme, including on delay in planning and implementation. We therefore note with appreciation the increased resources proposed for the Programme of Assistance in 2027. The proposed regular budget provides for non-post resources of approximately 1.01 million US dollars compared with 573,600 US dollars approved for 2026 and would support the fellowship program, the three regional courses, and the further development, dissemination, and maintenance of the audiovisual library. We intend to support this increase at the relevant committees. The Philippines has contributed during the reporting period to the Programme of Assistance and to the Hamilton-Shirley Amarasingham Memorial Fellowship on the Law of the Sea. We encourage Member States in a position to do so to continue supporting these activities, noting that the availability of the Fund has made possible the delivery of all regional workshops and the fellowship as aspired for by Member States. At the same time, We reiterate that voluntary contributions should complement and not replace financing through the regular budget of the United Nations. Adequate and predictable resources are necessary to ensure continuity of the program and access to its benefits, particularly for developing countries. Finally, Madam Chair, the Philippines wishes to place on record its appreciation to the Office of Legal Affairs. particularly the codification division and the division for office ocean affairs and the law of the sea and the and the teams responsible for implementing the program for their valuable work during the reporting period we note their careful attention to the views needs and requirements expressed by member states and their responsiveness in translating these into the implementation of the program This responsiveness has helped ensure that the program remains relevant and useful to the states it was established to serve. The Philippines looks forward to continuing its strong support for the program of assistance. Thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Philippines, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ethiopia.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Ethiopia aligns itself with the statements delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the G77 plus China, Cameroon on behalf of the African Group, and Iran on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. My delegation would like to thank the Secretary-General for his report on United Nations Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law, contained in document A/81/417. We also express our appreciation to the Office of Legal Affairs, particularly the Codification Division, for its important work in advancing the objectives of the program. Madam Chair, the establishment of the Program of Assistance by the General Assembly in 1965 was based on the conviction that even a limited program will contribute toward this meeting some of the most pressing needs for a better knowledge of international law as a means of strengthening international peace and security and of promoting friendly relations and cooperation among states. We believe that affirmation also stands today. The program of assistance is, in fact, among the core functions of the United Nations and shall get the same priority as other core functions in the allocation of funds during this liquidity crisis period. As we give emphasis for the negotiation and adoption of international instruments, that can guide the relations between states and resolving common problems to the international community under those of the United Nations. We should also do the same for its teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation. In addition of political will, it is only the knowledge and understanding of international law that ensures its respect and implementation. My delegation attaches particular importance to the educational and capacity building dimensions of the program. The International Law Fellowship Program under the United Nations Regional Course in International Law for Africa, Asia Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean provided valuable opportunities for governmental legal advisors, diplomats, academics, and other professionals to deepen their knowledge and strengthen their practical understanding of international law. We emphasize the importance of ensuring equitable geographical representation and broad participation in these programs, particularly for participants from developing countries. Access to high-quality international legal education and training should not be unduly constrained by financial, geographical, or institutional limitations. Continued support for fellowships, regional training opportunities, and the dissemination of legal Dissemination of legal materials is therefore indispensable to strengthen national legal expertise and build sustainable institutional capacity. According to the report of Secretary General, just to focus on our region, Africa, 407 applicants from 31 countries applied for the regional course in international law for Africa in 2026. Out of which only 20 participants got fellowship and two attended on self-funded basis. The number of applications for the fellowship also shows the big disparity between the demand and actual acceptance. Only 19 out of 847 applications from 121 countries received the fellowships. The progressive increase of applications to the regional course in international law and the fellowship program is a clear testament to the need for continuity of the programme and the need to increase the number of accepted trainees. Madam Chair, the Secretary-General's report also indicated that the deterioration liquidity situations of the Organization and the cost conservation measures implemented to address the situation have had a significant impact on the implementation of activities of the programme during the period under review. CPA would like to thank Member States who have made voluntary and in-kind contributions to the Programme of Assistance. While voluntary contributions remain an important means of supporting expanding its activities, they should complement sustained support through the regular budget, in accordance with relevant General Assembly resolutions. The Programme of Assistance is a core activity of the United Nations in that it has provided the foundation for the efforts of the United Nations to promote a better knowledge of international law. As such, the Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law shall be supported by the regular budget funding. The Programme of Assistance contributed to enhance multilateralism, created a platform to strengthen interpersonal and professional networks, raised the knowledge of international law, a number of professionals who promote its respect and implementation and better understanding between states. Furthermore, my delegation would like to underline the critical importance of the audiovisual library of international law, which has become an essential tool of the program of assistance in providing training to individuals and institutions around the world, free of charge through the internet. In conclusion, Madam Chair, my delegation reaffirms its support for the continued implementation and further development of the United Nations Programme of Assistance. We encourage all Member States to sustain their engagement with the Programme and to support efforts to make international legal knowledge more widely accessible, particularly to those who would otherwise have limited opportunities to benefit from such training and resources. I can take this opportunity also to commend the efforts of members and chair of the advisory committee on the program of assistance and the codification division of the Office of the Legal Affairs. Ethiopia reaffirms its commitment to provide all necessary support needed for the successful management, organization, and hosting of the regional course in international law for Africa. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ethiopia for his statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico.

Madam Chair, for more than six decades, this program has contributed to generations of jurists, diplomats, and public officials and academics having access to specialized training in international law. For Mexico, This endeavor is of the utmost importance given the impact it has on training those who participate in the development and application of international law. Mexico welcomes the fact that the program is continuing, and at the same time, we recognize that its success also poses a challenge. Growing demand for training exceeds the opportunities currently available. We must encourage the constant evaluation of measures to address this demand sustainably and equitably, in particular benefiting professionals from developing countries. Nevertheless, we are aware of the financial difficulties that the organization faces. In order to tackle them, we need to continue to explore cooperation opportunities with states and academic institutions in order to reduce costs and… to facilitate spaces, material or professional support that would enable us to increase the sustainability and also the reach of the programme. Similarly, in order to make the most of the legacy of the programme, we believe that the alumni network must be harnessed. This network could become an international learning community. through peer-to-peer learning and exchanges between former and current participants. We should also not exclude the possibility of following up on the professional development of former participants that, once they've made progress in their career, may have an interest and the ability to support the programme, including by participating in training programmes in a position as experts. We should also, um, explore maximizing resources through, um, transi- transitioning from physical material to digital format, wherever that's possible. Potential to expand the scope of the program could, um, be, uh, achieved by harnessing digital technology, as is shown, um, through the audio visual library and its capacity to, provide more than 600 conferences and a corpus of material that is constantly evolving. At the same time, we encourage the possibility of using tools available to increase access to resources in different languages without increasing costs. This could be achieved by using new technology. Knowledge can only be considered truly accessible when linguistic barriers do not determine who is able to benefit from them. Furthermore, democratising training requires beefing up geographic diversity, including a gender perspective and the different legal systems among the participants and those who teach on the programmes. Madam Chair, I wish to underscore that for Mexico, Teaching international law is not an end in itself, but rather it is a means to strengthen the capacities of States to encourage the peaceful settlement of disputes, to protect human rights, and to deliver a rules-based multilateral system. In this spirit, the legal office of the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs for decades has been organizing a specialized workshop on international law and the goal of this is to promote and disseminate this important subject among law school students from across the country. Next February we will be organizing the 30th addition of this initiative that is yet another proof of Mexico's commitment to the strengthening and dissemination of international law. Mexico will continue to support the Assistance Programme and will collaborate as a member of its Advisory Committee. Thank you very much.

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

Madam Chair, Singapore thanks the Secretary-General for his report on the implementation of the Programme of Assistance and the activities planned for the coming year. My delegation would like to assure you of Singapore's continued support for the Programme, which plays a critical role in strengthening the international rule of law in these uncertain times. The Programme greatly contributes to capacity building for developing countries and helps promote respect for international law. We commend the Codification Division for its tireless efforts in implementing the activities despite the deteriorating liquidity situation and the cash conservation measures. My delegation notes with appreciation that the frequency of the training programs, as mandated by the General Assembly, was preserved in the face of these challenges. My delegation is pleased that The 2026 editions of the International Law Fellowship Programme and the regional courses were successfully conducted. We applaud the regional and gender inclusivity in the awarding of the fellowships. We see value in the in-person format of the courses, which also provides opportunities for participants to build professional relationships. We encourage the Division to continue to strengthen the alumni framework network of participants, and explore regional virtual events driven by the alumni to minimize any additional resources. Singapore notes with concern that the liquidity situation has adversely affected the planning and implementation of training courses due to uncertainty regarding access to regular budget funds. We underscore the importance of funding the programme of assistance through the UN regular budget to ensure predictable funding and to give practical effect to the international community's collective commitment to capacity building in international law. Extra budgetary resources also have an important role in supplementing the regular budget. We invite the division to continue exploring practical solutions to ensure the continued delivery of the training programs, This could include partnerships with academic institutions, imposing tuition fees where appropriate, and increasing the numbers for self-funded participants. In our capacity as a member of the Advisory Committee, we stand ready to work constructively with other delegations to identify a sustainable way forward for the programme. Turning to the UN Audiovisual Library of International Law, or AVL, we note with appreciation that the Division was able to continue work on the AVL despite the liquidity situation. This included publication of new lectures and efforts to broaden the AVL's reach and accessibility by making all lectures available in Spotify. We encourage the Division to explore how artificial intelligence could further improve access to the AVL's extensive collection, including by transcribing and translating past lectures into the six official languages of the UN, subject to appropriate controls for quality assurance. On international law training materials, we note that it has been almost 10 years since the publication of the International Law Handbook. The Division may wish to review the possibility of a second edition to include the new treaties and instruments since 2017. Madam Chair, Singapore continues to actively contribute to capacity building efforts in international law. Under the Singapore Cooperation Programme, or SCP, which was established to share Singapore's development experience with fellow developing countries, Singapore has organised courses covering a broad range of public and private international topics, including the International Law of the Sea, International Trade Law, Trends and Challenges in International Law, International Dispute Resolution, Ocean Governance, and the BBNJ Agreement. In partnership with UNCITRAL, Singapore has also jointly organised courses under the SCP and the UNCITRAL Academy, which provide practical training on international trade law and dispute resolution to government officials and practitioners from developing countries. These initiatives help support government officials in playing a more significant role in shaping and safeguarding the international legal order. The Centre for International Law, or CIL, of the National University of Singapore plays an important role in building a regional community of international law and practice, enhancing the region's participation in the development of international law. The CIL's flagship ASEAN Law and Policy Academy convenes policy makers, practitioners, and academics from Southeast Asia and beyond, connecting regional legal architecture with wider international law developments. The CIL also has a webinar series called the UN Visible United Nations, where practitioners with UN experience discuss what the UN does behind the scenes to keep international law and multilateral cooperation moving. Recently, the first webinar on the progressive development and codification of international law at the UN featured officials from the Codification Division. Finally, Singapore wishes to thank Ghana for their continued stewardship of the process. We also thank the Secretary of the Advisory Committee, Dr. Markus Paalik, for his contributions. Singapore looks forward to continuing to contribute constructively to the Committee's work. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Singapore for his statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba. Next on our list, I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Lao People's Democratic Republic. Okay. Let's move on. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil, who is with us in the room.

Thank you, Madam Chair. We begin by aligning ourselves to the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the G77 and China, and also by thanking the Secretary-General for his report, as well as the members of the Advisory Committee for their contribution to the discussions on this topic. Much is said in this Committee about the need to defend and respect international law, especially in times of heightened geopolitical tensions and constant unilateral threats to multilateralism. Yet, to truly uphold the law, the international community needs leaders and public officers committed to it, professionals who understand, cherish, and protect international law, both as a common heritage of humankind and as an indispensable instrument for the achievement of all the three pillars of the United Nations. The program of assistance is an invaluable tool in this regard. Established 61 years ago, it stands as a testimony to the determination of all member states to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained. to quote the preamble to the Charter of the United Nations. One of such conditions, after all, is that the peoples of the world know what the law is and what it can be, and why it must be duly recognized and preserved. Brazil commends the Office of Legal Affairs for the successful implementation of all four training programs under the program of assistance during the 80th session, including the regional courses and the International Law Fellowship Program. The programs offer a central contribution to the diversity of perspectives in international law by providing qualified legal training to practitioners from developing countries across different regions of the world. Their in-person character is essential. as it fosters deep and meaningful interaction between participants from varied legal cultures in a constructive scholarly environment. These practitioners often go on to represent their countries in different international legal forum, including the Sixth Committee, as is the case of Brazil. This is why we support continued regular budget funding for all training programs on an annual basis in an in-person format, as well as efforts to increase the number of fellowships granted each year. We also endorse the advisory committee's call for the secretariat to continue diversifying the pool of lecturers, as well as the contents of the syllabus. The audiovisual library of international law is another key component of the program of assistance. democratizing access to qualified, reliable, and diverse resources on international law. Brazil encourages continued efforts to increase geographical and linguistic diversity in the library's contents, including efforts to reflect diverse legal perspectives within each topic. We regret the negative impact of the liquidity crisis on the Library and thank the Secretariat for its significant efforts to continue work on the publication of new materials despite funding limitations. Madam Chair, Brazil maintains that central initiatives such as the Programme of Assistance should not bear the brunt of the liquidity crisis. This is why we commend the Advisory Committee for its recommendation to include the activities under the program in the proposed program budget for 2027, as well as the Secretary-General's for including resources to implement the program in his regular budget proposal. While voluntary contributions are a positive and welcome source of additional funding, They are not an adequate substitute for predictable and consistent funding through the regular budget. As the General Assembly has consistently reaffirmed, the program of assistance is a core activity of the UN. Ensuring it remains so is a demonstration of our commitment to the purposes of this organization.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil for his statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Paraguay.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. First of all, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to the members of the Advisory Committee on the Programme of Assistance of the United Nations. on the teaching, study, dissemination, and wider appreciation of international law. We also wish to thank the Codification Division of the UN OLA, whose commitment remains fundamental for the success of this program. We also think that this is an appropriate opportunity to recall and celebrate Resolution 80/115 and 18/95, adopted by consensus, proclaiming 2027 as the International Year for Legal Literacy and for International Law. We also recall the resolution that contributed to better understanding of international law as a way of strengthening international peace and security and promoting friendly relations and cooperation between states. At the same time, in resolution 80/295, we recognize the importance of education, capacity building and technical assistance in international law, in particular for developing countries, including the LDCs, landlocked developing states and small island developing states, SIDS. In this regard, the Programme of Assistance remains a fundamental pillar to foster legal knowledge and international cooperation in the legal area. For decades, the Programme has trained specialists in international law, and its impact is notable on developing countries. This effort does not only elevate their professional skills, but also contributes to strengthening the international rules-based system, promoting the rule of law and achieving capacity building. The courses that took place as part of this program are an invaluable opportunity to exchange knowledge that's adapted to the needs and challenges of each region. Panama really appreciates the, Paraguay rather, I apologize, really appreciates the course carried out in our region, Latin America and the Caribbean, that we have the opportunity to participate in regularly. We also appreciate the commitment of the program to expanding digital access and availability of resources through the Audiovisual Library on International Law, the inclusion of materials in several languages and making it digital, make it more inclusive. And this initiative opens doors to those who otherwise would not have access to these resources. Paraguay also supports the recommendation of ensuring financial resources are available for the programme to be able to continue and to even expand and adapt to current challenges. And we also appreciate and are grateful for the voluntary contributions made by different member states and the agreements with institutions that enabled us to reduce the cost and optimise resources. We urge all involved and to continue to ensure that the program is not negatively affected by the liquidity situation. We also reiterate our firm support to the assistance program and equitable distribution of its activity to all regions of the world through constant training and accessible international law, we can contribute to strengthening our national and global institutions. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Paraguay for her statement, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

Thank you, Madam Chair. We've carefully read the report of the SG on the Programme of Assistance of the UN for teaching, study, dissemination and wider appreciation of international law. presented under GA Resolution 80/163. I'd like to note, first and foremost, the significant progress achieved during the reporting period. We note with satisfaction that despite the maintained financial and HR constraints, we've maintained the regional course of the international law for the Asia-Pacific region, for Africa, and for Latin America and the Caribbean. We are pleased that the courses, as is tradition, brought together highly qualified professionals and practitioners and led participants to pay attention to specificities of each region. We also welcome the holding in The Hague of the International Law Fellowship Program, and we thank The Hague Academy of International Law for the Secretariat of the International Court of Justice as well for their assistance. I'd like to note the high demand for the fellowship program and regional courses, which demonstrates the need for these programs. We believe it's very important that when selecting participants in the course and fellowship, the criteria should be purely based on their professional qualities and potential. The priority should be given to the most worthy and promising candidates from developing countries. We agree with the importance of diversifying the lecturers in the context of ensuring representation of the different legal systems and a fair geographic balance as laid out in resolution of the GEA 80/163. At the same time, the decisive criteria should remain knowledge, experience, and willingness to share them. We are pleased with the report of the work of the Audiovisual Library of the UN on International Law, in particular the publication of new lectures and materials. We welcome the publication of these lectures on an electronic platform, resources including historic archives, and the research library are very valuable for universities and research centers, especially in developing countries. We note the efforts toward codification of vision when it comes to continuing work on the UN legal handbook. We also note the persistent challenges that the program faces. The liquidity crisis of the UN and austerity measures are seriously hampering the organizing of a number of events, and due to the uncertainty about resources from the regular budget, the planning and programming of regular courses have been postponed, and we've had to use extra budgetary resources for this. And this has a negative impact on the participants of the programs and limit the dissemination of written materials, which are so sorely needed in developing countries. We deeply regret that these vital initiatives, such as the regional courses and the fellowship program have been impacted by budget restrictions. These programs are of special importance for developing countries and are not only educational events but also investments in the training of qualified legal scholars and personnel. Limiting these programs means limiting access to knowledge for those states that need the support of the UN the most. We hope that The regular budget resources plan for 2027 will be fully allocated and will allow for the time of the implementation of all planned events. We welcome the voluntary contributions by Member States as well as the contribution of host countries and organizations. At the same time, we emphasize that voluntary contributions cannot replace stable financing for programs from the regular budget. Madam Chair, the Russian Federation plans to continue to do all it can to assist the Programme of Assistance. And we continue to hold that raising the role of international law and disseminating knowledge about it is in the interest of the entire international community. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation for his statement. We heard the last speaker for the agenda item this morning. We will continue and conclude the debate on agenda item 77, United Nations Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law, at our meeting this afternoon, after which the Committee will undertake its consideration of agenda item 83, Report of the Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations and on Strengthening the Role of the Organization. This was a meeting rescheduled from last week. Before adjourning, I wish to remind delegations that informal consultations on agenda items 150, Administration of Justice at the United Nations and 87, Responsibility of International Organizations, will take place during the lunch break today in this room. The meeting is adjourned.