A/69/PV.99 General Assembly

Before proceeding to the item on our agenda, it is my sad duty to pay tribute to the memory of the late Permanent Representative of Djibouti to the United Nations, His Excellency Mr. Roble Olhaye, who passed away on Wednesday, 22 July. Ambassador Olhaye had a distinguished career as a respected diplomat. He began his tenure at the United Nations on 18 January 1988 and was appointed Ambassador to the United States on 2 March of that year. He served as the dean of the diplomatic corps in Washington, D.C. On behalf of the General Assembly, I request the representative of Djibouti to convey our condolences to the Government and the people of Djibouti and to the bereaved family of His Excellency Roble Olhaye. I now invite representatives to stand and observe a minute of silence in tribute to the memory of His Excellency Mr. Roble Olhaye.

Today we pay tribute to Ambassador Roble Olhaye of Djibouti, whose passing away last week has saddened the United Nations community. Having been appointed in 1988, as I said, Ambassador Olhaye was the longest-serving Permanent Representative at the United Nations. In his 27 years of service, Ambassador Olhaye built an enduring legacy both in New York and *1523166* 15-23166 (E) in Washington, D.C, where he served as Ambassador of his country to the United States. He was also Djibouti’s non-resident Ambassador to Canada. Here at the United Nations Ambassador Olhaye served in a wide range of capacities, including representing his country in the Security Council in 1994. He served as President of the Council in February 1994, as well as Chairman of the Sanctions Committee established pursuant to resolution 841 (1993), on Haiti. He later served as Chairman of the Second Committee in 1999. Prior to coming to New York, Ambassador Olhaye served as Djibouti’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme in Nairobi. He was also Honorary Consul of Djibouti to Kenya from 1980 to 1985, during which time the political relations between the two countries were established. Through more than two and half decades of international service, Ambassador Olhaye’s presence became an indelible part of daily life at the United Nations. I know I speak for many of us when I say that he will be greatly missed. I convey my sincere condolences to the bereaved family, including his wife and children, as well as to the Government and the people of Djibouti. May his soul rest in eternal peace. I now give the floor to His Excellency Secretary- General Ban Ki-moon.

I welcome this opportunity to pay tribute to the late Permanent Representative of Djibouti, His Excellency Mr. Roble Olhaye. I extend my deepest condolences to the President of Djibouti, His Excellency Mr. Ismaël Omar Guelleh; its Minister for Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Mr. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf; and other colleagues in the Foreign Ministry for their loss. At this time of mourning, we may take some measure of comfort in knowing that Ambassador Olhaye left a lasting legacy based on nearly 30 years of engagement with the United Nations. Ambassador Olhaye first presented his credentials to Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar in January 1988. He also represented his country in North America. He was fondly referred to as the Eternal Representative among Permanent Representatives. He had great wisdom. We considered him a leading dictionary, since he knew so much. During his long career of public service, he made important contributions on issues across the United Nations agenda, helping to advance progress in our core mission of achieving peace, human rights and development. Ambassador Olhaye showed strong leadership on many occasions, including as President of the Security Council and Chairman of the Haiti Sanctions Committee in 1994, as well as Chairman of the Second Committee in 1999. I deeply appreciated his support when I travelled to Djibouti last October. I remember how he helped to make my visit a great success. Ambassador Olhaye was a passionate champion of Africa and a great believer in the value of the continent’s partnership with the United Nations. Thanks in part to his support we have strengthened our important bond, making a difference in the lives of millions of people. Beyond his many diplomatic successes, Ambassador Olhaye was deeply admired for his energy, dedication and sincerity. He once said that “never forgetting those most in need is the reason why we are here” at the United Nations. Ambassador Olhaye always remembered the people who are suffering. Let us carry on that spirit as we honour his memory.

I thank the Secretary-General for his statement. I now give the floor to the representative of South Africa, who will speak on behalf of the Group of African States.

At the outset, on behalf of the Group of African States, I wish to extend my deepest appreciation to Mr. Sam Kutesa, President of the General Assembly, for organizing this special meeting of the General Assembly as a memorial to the late Ambassador Roble Olhaye, Permanent Representative of Djibouti to the United Nations and Ambassador to the United States of America and to Canada. It is with profound sadness that the African Group learned of the passing away, on Wednesday, 22 July, of our beloved colleague and brother, His Excellency Mr. Roble Olhaye, Permanent Representative of Djibouti and Ambassador to the United States. Ambassador Olhaye’s work at the United Nations spanned over three decades and leaves behind an indelible legacy. Very few Ambassadors can lay claim to having served at the United Nations alongside four Secretaries-General. And there are less than a handful of Ambassadors who can ever claim to have served under five United States Presidents, as Ambassador Olhaye did. Our hearts are filled with deep sorrow, for he welcomed most of us as Permanent Representatives to the United Nations in his capacity as the dean of the diplomatic corps. We hold in remembrance a big brother, a diplomatic giant, a strong pillar and skilful negotiator who worked tirelessly to advance the African agenda. We also hold in remembrance his warm welcome and mentoring of each of us as new Permanent Representatives. The passing away of Ambassador Olhaye is a great loss to his family, his country, the African Group and the United Nations. It is indeed a great loss for the diplomatic community. Ambassador Olhaye had an illustrious diplomatic career. For almost three decades, he served his country with distinction at the United Nations. He was the longest-serving Ambassador to the United Nations and to the United States of America in Washington, D.C. He therefore became the dean of the diplomatic corps. Ambassador Olhaye was dedicated to his work and to his homeland. By all accounts, Ambassador Olhaye was an astute and outstanding diplomat. He was well respected by his fellow Permanent Representatives, and equally by other diplomats. As the African Group, we relied on his significant understanding, wisdom and knowledge of the delicate process of the United Nations. His enormous professionalism, dedication and significant contribution to the unity and cohesion of the African Group will always be missed. We will remember him for tirelessly working on advancing the African agenda. It is for this reason that we in the African Group say we have lost a big brother, a giant and an institution that we relied on during the many difficult times in negotiations. He imparted with enormous professionalism his unwavering commitment to upholding the founding principles of the United Nations and the unity and cohesion of the African Group. His enduring legacy of core values and principles will remain forever etched in our hearts and minds as we continue to cherish the memory of our departed brother. On behalf of the African Group, please allow me to offer our deepest condolences to his bereaved family and to the Government and the people of Djibouti. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

I now give the floor to the representative of Bangladesh, who will speak on behalf of the Group of Asia-Pacific States.

I am humbled to speak on behalf of the Group of Asia-Pacific States at this solemn moment to pay tribute to His Excellency Mr. Roble Olhaye, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Djibouti to the United Nations. It was with a heavy heart and profound sadness that last week we learned about the passing away of our good friend, Ambassador Olhaye. On behalf of the Asia-Pacific Group, I express our deepest condolences and sympathy to the bereaved family of Ambassador Olhaye as well as to the Government and the people of the Republic of Djibouti for their great loss. The Group thanks you, Mr. President, for convening this meeting to pay tribute to Ambassador Olhaye. Ambassador Olhaye had an outstanding diplomatic career. He held his country’s flag high in different United Nations bodies, such as the United Nations Environment Programme and the United Nations Centre for Human Settlements. His engagement as the Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations spanned more than 27 years. During his long association with the United Nations, he demonstrated exceptional intellect, vision, skill and passion for the core ideals of the Organization. All of us immensely benefited from his wealth of knowledge, wisdom and experience. Ambassador Olhaye’s contribution to global peace and security, including as the President of the Security Council and the Chairman of the Sanctions Committee on Haiti and as a member of the Security Council mission to Mozambique, earned him the respect of all his peers. Ambassador Olhaye worked tirelessly in a number of United Nations committees and offices, such as the position as Chair of the Second Committee, as well as at the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Population Fund and the United Nations Office for Project Services, to name a few. On a personal note, I had a great deal of respect for him. He shouldered the responsibilities of his nation in two most important stations simultaneously, at the United Nations in New York and the other at his country’s Embassy to the the United States in Washington, D.C. Yet as a colleague I never felt disconnected, as he was always available when I needed him. He was especially passionate on the issue of Africa, and therefore I once described him as the voice of Africa, as he articulated the aspirations of Africa in a very constructive and meaningful way. Yet he never neglected the genuine issues of other groups. He was affectionate, loving and soft-spoken, and in times of need he stood solid like rock. There is a saying: “Death leaves a headache that no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.” While our hearts ache at the passing away of our friend and dean, Ambassador Roble Olhaye, the love and respect he earned by his work to this comity of nations, through his loving, compassionate and amicable behaviour will keep him always alive among us and no one can steal his memory from us. On this solemn occasion, on behalf of the Asia- Pacific Group, I would like to reiterate our commitment to continuing our close work with the Permanent Mission and the Government of the Republic of Djibouti in the coming days.

I now give the floor to the representative of Romania, who will speak on behalf of the Group of Eastern European States.

The members of the Group of Eastern European States express their condolences to the bereft family and friends of His Excellency Ambassador Roble Olhaye, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Djibouti to the United Nations, on the sad occasion of his passing away, on 22 July. During his nearly 30-year diplomatic career as a Permanent Representative of the Republic of Djibouti, he worked in the United Nations Environment Programme and United Nations-Habitat, and, starting in 1988, as Ambassador to the United Nations, the United States and Canada. Ambassador Olhaye, the dean of the diplomatic corps, served his country in an active and professional manner while holding a number of important posts, including that of President of the Security Council in February 1994. His presence will be sorely missed by all of us, including the members of the Eastern European States.

I now give the floor to the representative of Paraguay, who will speak on behalf of the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States.

On behalf of the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States (GRULAC), I address the General Assembly to express our deep condolences on the passing away of Ambassador Roble Olhaye, Permanent Representative of Djibouti and dean of the diplomatic corps. Ambassador Roble Olhaye was a person committed to his country and to the purposes and principles of the Organization. At United Nations Headquarters, he distinguished himself in carrying out his important roles as, inter alia, Chair of the Second Committee and President of the Security Council in February 1994, during a period when his country served as a non-permanent member of that organ. He also played a crucial role in the reform process of the Security Council; indeed, he was one of the Permanent Representatives appointed to conduct negotiations that led to the adoption of decision 62/557 in 2008. That decision broke for the first time a 14-year deadlock in those discussions. In his native country, he will be remembered as a diplomat who dedicated most of the life to defending the overriding interests of Djibouti. We are very saddened by the absence of Ambassador Olhaye, and as we remember his place in the Organization, the Member States of GRULAC would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to him. Without a doubt, the memory of Ambassador Olhaye will remain very dear to whoever shared his friendship and his company. To the members of his family, we would like to convey our most sincere condolences and to let them know that we share their grief at this very difficult time.

I now give the floor to the representative of Spain, who will speak on behalf of the Group of Western European and Other States.

I have the sad duty to speak today on behalf of the Group of Western European and Other States on the loss of our colleague, Ambassador Roble Olhaye, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Djibouti to the United Nations. We would like to convey our sincere condolences to the Government of Djibouti and to his bereaved wife and children, as well as to his extended family and friends. Ambassador Olhaye was one of the seniormost veteran members of the international community in this country, where he used his valuable experience and knowledge in the private and public sectors for the service of a country that, although facing many challenges, has proved its resilience and quality as a partner in our common endeavours. Ambassador Olhaye had the opportunity and honour to represent Djibouti at the United Nations since 1988, where his previous assignments as Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme and to the United Nations Human Settlements Programme in Nairobi were an invaluable asset in defending the interests not only of Djibouti but of the entire African continent. He was also accredited Ambassador to Canada and the United States of America. He then became the longest- serving Ambassador to the United States of America and was the dean of the diplomatic corps. On behalf of the Group of Western European and Other States, I would like to reiterate our deep sadness once again for the loss of someone who was a husband, a father and, for us, a colleague and a friend.

I now give the floor to the representative of the United States of America, who will speak on behalf of the host country.

I have the honour to speak today on behalf of the Government of the United States of America, the country that has the privilege of hosting the United Nations. I offer our deepest condolences to the people and the Government of the Republic of Djibouti on the passing away of His Excellency Ambassador Roble Olhaye, Permanent Representative of Djibouti to the United Nations and Djiboutian Ambassador to the United States of America. Some days when we come to work we can feel anything but united here at the United Nations. But if there is one thing that all representatives of all nations can agree upon, it is the depth of the loss that we feel with Roble’s passing. He was our dean, our leader and our big brother. We will miss not only his strong opinions and commanding presence, but also, above all, his personal warmth and generosity. Before I moved to New York to take up my position, I asked my predecessor, Ambassador Rice, what were the first things I should do when I arrived here. Her counsel was typically straightforward: “Go see the Ambassador of Djibouti,” she said. “He knows everyone and he knows everything.” When I paid a call on him in my first days here, he greeted me with two enormous boxes of cannolis and eclairs. “One box for you,” he said with delight, “and one box for your son and your daughter.” There was no geopolitical conversation with Roble that did not begin with a discussion of our families and our love of our kids. That is one quality that made him such a tireless diplomat. He never lost sight of the individuals and families who were, and still are, affected by all of the debates we have here. Although Roble seemed an omnipresent fixture here at the United Nations, he somehow managed to moonlight between New York and Washington, D.C., where he was the longest-serving Ambassador to the United States of America. When he took over as Djibouti’s Ambassador in Washington, D.C., on 22 March 1988, he said, “Americans had never heard of Djibouti.” Even among diplomats, the nation was not very well known. Djibouti did not even have an Embassy in Washington, D.C., before his arrival. But Roble persuaded his President to open one, and then used that Embassy as a perch from which to forge the trust and relationships that were his currency. “When we opened,” he later said, “a lot of people in this country were writing to us for information, addressing letters, “Dear Mr. Djibouti”. Roble changed that. He mailed out information packages about his country to high schools and elementary schools. He seized opportunities to speak about his nation with the broader public in press interviews, public forums and conferences. Within the diplomatic community, of course, he built the relationships that allowed him to promote Djibouti’s interests and those of his continent. It is a testament to the largeness of Roble’s personality, the boundlessness of his energy and the breadth of his ambition for Djibouti, and also for Africa as a whole, that his colleagues and friends in both New York and Washington, D.C., felt him as a full-time presence. Wherever he was, he was a tireless advocate for Djibouti and for economic development and trade on the African continent. It is true that he will not get to see the world’s embrace of the new sustainable development goals in September, but it is no exaggeration to say that the agenda Roble pushed his entire career is one that will be enshrined in those goals. How large a force was Roble? It is not every day that the President of the United States of America pays tribute to the passing of a member of our community here. But that is what President Obama did last week, crediting our beloved colleague for his personal role in helping secure the passage of the African Growth and Opportunity Act, a piece of legislation that assists the economies of sub-Saharan Africa, and praising Roble for the way he “represented his nation and all of Africa with pride”. Roble projected tremendous pride: pride in Djibouti, pride in Africa and pride in what all of us could do if we put our minds to it. We mourn the passing of Roble Olhaye as a colleague and as a friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Amina Farah Ahmed, and his five children and all who loved him and were loved by him. Early yesterday, an emotional President Guelleh and most of the Djiboutian Cabinet were at the airport to greet the arrival of the Ambassador’s remains. Given all he did for his country, his people and his continent, Roble’s was a truly triumphant return. A grieving and forever grateful nation welcomes him home.

I now give the floor to the representative of Djibouti Miss. Hassan (Djibouti) (spoke in French): We were greatly moved and greatly saddened to hear of the death last week of His Excellency Mr. Roble Olhaye, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Djibouti to the United States of America and Permanent Representative of Djibouti to the United Nations. On behalf of the Government of Djibouti, I would like to thank the President of the General Assembly for having convened this meeting to pay tribute to Mr. Olhaye. Furthermore, I welcome the presence of the Secretary-General and all Member States that are here with us today. I would like to thank all those who took the floor before me for sharing their moving memories of Ambassador Olhaye. The homage of the General Assembly comes a day after his State funeral yesterday morning in Djbouti, where the highest-level governing bodies of the State of Djibouti were represented — including the President of Republic as well as the members of the Government and Parliament. The ceremony rightfully honoured his selfless services to the nation of Djbouti. Roble Olhaye’s services helped to strengthen and bolster the influence of our nation’s diplomacy at the international level. The President of the Republic of Djibouti stressed that: “Our country’s diplomacy has lost one of its most brilliant representatives and recognizes his contribution to our rapprochement with the United States and with Africa.” Ambassador Olhaye was a diplomat endowed with optimism and great confidence in the future of Africa. At the annual celebration during Africa Week in Washington, D.C. — which complements Africa Day in New York — that all of us here are familiar with, in reply to the question “What is there to celebrate?” his answer was: (spoke in English) “There is a lot to celebrate. A lot of countries are doing very well — extremely well. Africa is not what you often read. It is not what you think. Africa is open for business.” (spoke in French) During his long diplomatic career in the United States and at the United Nations, Ambassador Olhaye participated in and contributed to the development, negotiation and adoption of a number of intergovernmental processes in the General Assembly, the Security Council and in the Economic and Social Council, in which he held and took on various positions and responsibilities. We are unable to summarize all of his achievements in only a few minutes, but we would like to take this opportunity to recognize and celebrate the fact that Ambassador Olhaye — dean of the diplomatic corps in Washington, D.C., and at the United Nations — was an experienced diplomat, proud to serve the interests of his country through thick and thin. His long professional experience attests to the outstanding nature of his work at the bilateral level and his knowledge of the United Nations system, which was a real asset to our diplomacy. Ambassador Olhaye always defended the importance of multilateralism in addressing global collective challenges and was convinced of the ability of small States within the United Nations to exercise their influence and play a constructive role. Many here had an opportunity to work and interact with Ambassador Olhaye and saw first-hand his dexterity and diplomatic experience on various issues. He was always willing to offer advice on, and discuss current matters with, all diplomats — whether junior or senior. We already miss his effective and wise leadership; his memory will live on in the friendly countries in which he served and among those of us who worked with him. In these painful circumstances, all the diplomats and the staff of the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York and those of the Embassy of Djibouti to the United States of America would like to reiterate their heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathy to his wife and five children, as well as to all the other members of the family and the friends and relatives of the deceased. Our thoughts are with them in this painful and difficult time, when they express their mourning in accordance with tradition in Djbouti, with: We implore Allah, the Almighty, to grant His immense mercy to Ambassador Olhaye. I would like to conclude with an expression intended for such circumstances that many in the Assembly are familiar with: surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.

I would like once again to congratulate and commend the Government of Ethiopia for successfully hosting the third International Conference on Financing for Development. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda, which was adopted by the Conference on 16 July, is a comprehensive framework for financing sustainable development, with concrete deliverables, policies and actions that will support the implementation of the post- 2015 development agenda. The edorsement of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda by the General Assembly today will further demonstrate our collective commitment to eradicating poverty, achieving sustainable development and building a better future for all. We should all do whatever it will takes to ensure that the Addis Ababa Action Agenda is fully implemented. I now give the floor to His Excellency Secretary- General Ban Ki-moon.

Today, the General Assembly will take a major step on the path towards sustainable development and ending extreme poverty in all its forms. By endorsing the outcome document of the third International Conference on Financing for Development, we launch a new era of cooperation and global partnership. We provide the foundation for success at the summit to adopt the post-2015 development agenda, to be held in New York in September, and at the Conference of Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, to be held in Paris in December. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda provides a new global framework for financing sustainable development. It provides incentives for investment in areas of global need and aligns financing flows and policies with economic, social and environmental priorities. In addition to the agreements in the outcome document, many initiatives were launched, including the Addis Tax Initiative, increased commitments from development banks, and a new financing partnership for women’s and children’s health. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda provides a guide for actions by all stakeholders. It has laid down a strong foundation to support the implementation of the post-2015 development agenda, including the sustainable development agenda. The Action Agenda also provides a strong accountability mechanism. Next year’s first Financing for Development Forum will give the international community an important opportunity to assess progress in implementation. Only by staying engaged will we ensure that the commitments we endorse today will lead to tangible progress on the ground, in all countries and for all people. Allow me to express my deepest appreciation to you, Mr. President, for your admirable stewardship during these many months. Your leadership, patience and diplomatic skill enabled us to have a successful outcome. Let us also thank Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, who served as President of the Conference; Foreign Minister Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who was Chairman of the Main Committee; and the Government of Ethiopia for hosting this historic conference and bringing it to a successful conclusion. Their efforts and those of the co-facilitators, Ambassadors George Talbot of Guyana and Geir Pedersen of Norway, are greatly appreciated. And I thank the Member States for their engagement and flexibility in taking this critical step forward. By showing such flexibility, we have forged this document for all of the peoples of the world. Lastly, I should like to thank Under-Secretary- General Wu Hongbo of the Department of Social and Economic Affairs for his efforts as the Secretary- General of the Conference. He and his staff worked with dedication for a successful outcome. We are now firmly on the path to a more prosperous, just and sustainable world for this and future generations.

I thank the Secretary-General for his statement. We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/69/L.82. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

In connection with draft resolution A/69/L.82, entitled “Addis Ababa Action Agenda of the Third International Conference on Financing for Development (Addis Ababa Action Agenda)”, I wish to put on record the following statement of financial implications on behalf of the Secretary-General, in accordance with rule 153 of the rules of procedure of the General Assembly. The implementation of the recommendations contained in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda would give rise to additional resource requirements under the regular budget and, possibly, extra-budgetary resources. However, the recommendations contained in the Action Agenda would require further assessment and consultations with all stakeholders in order to determine how the decisions contained in the Action Agenda are proposed to be implemented. Accordingly, it is not possible for the Secretariat to determine at this stage the full extent of the programme budget implications arising from the draft resolution. Should the General Assembly adopt the draft resolution, the Secretary-General will submit a detailed revised estimates report for the proposed programme budget for the biennium 2016-2017 to the General Assembly for consideration at its seventieth session.

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/69/L.82, entitled “Addis Ababa Action Agenda of the Third International Conference on Financing for Development (Addis Ababa Action Agenda)”. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt the draft resolution?

Before giving the floor to the speaker in explanation of position, may I remind delegations that explanations of vote are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats. I call on the representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, who wishes to speak in explanation of position on the resolution just adopted.

I should like at the outset, on behalf of the people and the Government of Venezuela, to express our sincere condolences to the people and the Government of Djibouti on the passing of Ambassador Roble Olhaye. (spoke in Spanish) On behalf of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, I wish to reiterate our gratitude and congratulations to the people and the Government of Ethiopia for their hospitality and leadership at the third International Conference on Financing for Development. Our country fully supports the statement to be made later by South Africa in its capacity as Chair of the Group of 77 and China (G-77 and China). With respect to the adoption of the Addis Ababa document, the delegation of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela wishes to express some reservations on its content, because we believe that it does not fully reflect the diversity of opinions on matters related to sustainable development. The Addis Ababa Conference was an important effort towards the shared goal of creating the economic and social conditions necessary to eradicate poverty and exclusion. As stated by French economist Thomas Piketty, achieving sustainable development must go hand in hand with a process involving the dissemination of knowledge and investment in capacity-building and training. Such mechanisms would lead to a greater increase in productivity and reduced inequality, both within and among countries. Upon the adoption of resolution 69/313, entitled “Addis Ababa Action Agenda of the Third International Conference on Financing for Development (Addis Ababa Action Agenda)”, the outcome of the Conference, Venezuela wishes to submits reservations on the following issues. Concerning paragraph 31, as indicated at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), reference to the elimination of fossil-fuel subsidies is interventionist in the context of the public policies of the State. Venezuela will not accept any kind of evaluation, monitoring, reporting or review of our national energy policies or measures that affect our national sovereignty. That paragraph also distances itself from and substantially modifies the positions agreed on in the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation of 2002. Concerning paragraphs 60 and 69, Venezuela rejects the references to low-carbon economies and the listing of new and innovative mechanisms, especially the mention of carbon-pricing mechanisms, for the same reasons I have just set out. With respect to the reference to modern energy services for all in paragraph 49, we reiterate our reservation in this respect, as we did in the final document of Rio+20, “The future we want”. That is because modern energy, in our opinion, involves the use of new technologies without the necessary assessment of their application in a national context or of priorities in technological development. We deplore the deletion in paragraph 14 of the reference introduced by the G-77 and China on initiatives to expand the availability of financing, in particular through the establishment of new multilateral development banks, such as the Bank of the South, the Alba Bank and the Alba Fund, to complement existing international institutions. Legitimate concerns concerning the impact of trade barriers on developing countries were disregarded, as well as the negative effects of unilateral coercive measures, which threaten the sovereignty and self-determination of peoples. Lastly, we would recall once again that Venezuela is not a party to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and that the fact that we did not object to the text approved in this document cannot be interpreted as a change in our position on that Convention.

We have heard the last speaker in explanation of position. I shall now give the floor to those members who wish to make statements following the adoption of resolution 69/313.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. The Group of 77 and China is most grateful to Ethiopia for hosting the recent third International Conference on Financing for Development. Furthermore, we would like to thank you, Mr. President, for convening this 99th plenary meeting of the General Assembly with a mandate to consider the Addis Ababa Action Agenda of the third International Conference on Financing for Development, which concluded its work on 16 July. In that regard, we would also like to congratulate you, Sir, for your able stewardship and leadership with regard to the work and overall business of the current session of the General Assembly. I would also like to add that we are grateful to the facilitators, Ambassadors Talbot and Pedersen, for having led the process. The Group of 77 and China would like to welcome the outcome document of the third International Conference on Financing for Development, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, now adopted under resolution 69/313. In our understanding, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda is complementary to and supplements the means of implementation of the post-2015 development agenda. In addition, as recognized in paragraph 19 of the Agenda, the post-2015 development agenda, including the sustainable development goals, can be met within the framework of a revitalized global partnership for sustainable development, supported by concrete policies and actions as outlined in the Action Agenda. The Group sought to be constructive in the financing for development negotiations, in order to ensure that a meaningful and ambitious outcome from the process could be reached through good-faith intergovernmental deliberations. We supported frank and transparent negotiations towards a meaningful outcome. The Group has also been consistent in its efforts to galvanize all Member States and arrive at a common understanding that will ensure that financing for development remains relevant to the needs of developing countries. Our participation in the negotiations that led to the adoption of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda was also based on our resolve to rid the world of poverty in all its forms. We call for this global partnership for development to be revitalized and reinvigorated, particularly as we advance towards the adoption of the post-2015 development agenda. We must, however, never lose sight of the unfinished business of the Millennium Development Goals in order that no one be left behind. Indeed, the work on implementation that lies ahead of us will not be easy. Through the revitalized and reinvigorated global partnership for development and the North-South cooperation in the centre thereof, we believe that more can be done to sufficiently finance development. This would make a huge impact in bridging the global economic disparities and inequalities that continue to characterize the current world economic system. What is needed, therefore, is adequate financing, which is an area where developed countries should demonstrate leadership and unequivocal commitment in order assist all of us to finally defeat poverty. The private sector and South-South cooperation should complement such efforts. Accordingly, public international financing remains of paramount importance, where the North should play a prominent role. The Group of 77 and China recognizes that progress has been achieved. The Group is on record as noting that compromise outcomes have been achieved in a number of key areas, including, for example, the call for a global infrastructure forum, more comprehensive treatment of the issue of debt sustainability, providing capacity-building and a technology transfer mechanism and dedicated mechanism for follow-up and review with intergovernmentally agreed conclusions and recommendations. However, the position of the Group is also on record that there remain a number of issues of principle that are important to and fully endorsed by the Group that have not been adequately accommodated in the current text, including, but not limited to, the explicit reaffirmation of the key principle of common but differentiated responsibilities in the context of the global partnership for development. This principle remains relevant and valid and, indeed, is the basis for all international cooperation on sustainable development. An unequivocal affirmation of this principle in the outcome document of the post-2015 development is essential for moving forward. Other areas that have not been adequately accommodated in the current text include the need to maintain the integrity of the third International Conference on Financing for Development and the post- 2015 development agenda as separate processes, while acknowledging the need for stronger synergies between them; the need for development partners to meet current commitments and scale up official development assistance (ODA) with binding timetables, including the reaffirmation that ODA remains the main source of development assistance; the need to address the diverse and specific development needs of middle-income countries in a coordinated manner through the establishment of a United Nations plan of action to that end that considers, inter alia, the multidimensional nature of development and poverty; the need to fully upgrade the Tax Committee into an intergovernmental body; the need to make an explicit reference to countries and peoples living under foreign occupation; the need to explicitly address the issue of lifting and terminating coercive measures, including unilateral economic sanctions; and the need to explicitly address the fact that climate financing is new and in addition to — and therefore cannot be counted as — ODA, nor can it be mixed with traditional development finance. The foregoing agreed principles are fundamental to the livelihoods of our people. In the context of the current intergovernmental negotiations on the post-2015 development agenda, the Group of 77 and China would like to reiterate the following. With regard to the relationship and/ or interlinkages among means of implementation, aspects of the post-2015 development agenda and the outcome of the third International Conference on Financing for Development process, namely, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, the Group holds the view that the integrity of the post-2015 development agenda and financing for development process must be respected, as they are completely different in scope and purpose. The Group would also like to stress that the means of implementation of a post-2015 development agenda cannot be a substitute for nor be replaced by the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. Rather, the financing for development outcome from Addis Ababa should support and supplement the means of implementation for the post-2015 development agenda. The means of implementation set out in each goal and in goal 17 are a fundamental component of the post-2015 development agenda in their own right and an integral part of the agenda that we are currently negotiating. The Group of 77 and China would like to reiterate that it has not abandoned its principled positions, whose objectives are to continue to strive for a just world economic system in the spirit of multilateralism, ensure that the global partnership for development is genuine and adequately resourced, and assist in reversing the years of chronic underdevelopment and poverty that continue to affect developing countries.

I now give the floor to the observer of the European Union. Mr. Mayr-Harting (European Union) (spoke in French); On the occasion of the loss of Mr. Roble Olhaye, Permanent Representative of Djibouti and dean of the diplomatic corps, I wish to begin my statement today with the expression of the deepest condolences of the members of the European Union and my personal condolences to his family and to the people and Government of Djibouti. (spoke in English) On behalf of the European Union and its member States, I would also like to join in expressing profound appreciation and congratulations to our Ethiopian hosts for the successful organization of the third International Conference on Financing for Development, held in Addis Ababa from 13 to 16 July. I would also like to profit from this occasion to thank you, Mr. President, for your personal, strong engagement in this matter. I acknowledge the earlier presence of the Secretary- General and his engagement in the matter as well. We would like to particularly thank Ambassadors Geir Pedersen and George Talbot for their tireless efforts during the past month. All their work is greatly appreciated, and I think that we can all say that the Addis Ababa Conference has been a resounding success. The landmark Addis Ababa Action Agenda provides us with a means to implement the post-2015 agenda with its sustainable development goals. Together we have agreed to an ambitious vision that addresses the full spectrum of the means of implementation. Together we have agreed that everyone will need to take action to achieve the post-2015 agenda. The true value and strength of the Addis Ababa Agenda is its comprehensiveness — a success that should not be put at risk by any attempt to renegotiate selected subjects. By bringing together domestic resources, investments, international public finance — including official development assistance — and good policies, it shows that action on all fronts will be necessary to succeed in our common fight against poverty, inequality and exclusion and for sustainable development. By integrating the three dimensions of sustainable development in a balanced manner, it paves the way towards a single universal framework and set of goals. The European Union will continue to contribute its share to that effort, both domestically and abroad, with a particular focus on countries most in need and the continent of Africa. The European Union is the most open market in the world for developing countries, the world’s largest donor and a pioneer in the design and use of innovative financing mechanisms. In our view, the successful outcome of the Conference symbolizes Africa’s contribution to multilateralism. It also constitutes the first and critical step towards the adoption of the post-2015 agenda in September and the Paris Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 21) in December. By mainstreaming sustainable development in our common agenda and by mobilizing all actors for its implementation, it provides us with the momentum we need to achieve success at the September summit in New York and to conclude an ambitious and universal agreement on climate at COP 21 in Paris. The world has changed dramatically over the past decades, including the nature and magnitude of our global challenges, their cause and effects and our respective capabilities to address them. The post-2015 development agenda needs to respond to those evolving dynamics. We will continue to engage constructively in the upcoming preparations for the September 2015 summit. We still have some way to go, but the agreement in Addis Ababa has brought us a lot closer. With regard to the oral statement on programme budget implications read out by the representative of the Secretariat in connection with the recommendations contained in resolution 69/313, we understand that detailed estimates will be presented in accordance with applicable rules. Today’s statement does not prejudge the Secretary-General’s submission to the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions and the Fifth Committee for the proposed budget for the 2016-2017 biennium, which should first and foremost consider all cost-effective ways of addressing resource requirements, if any, and the possibility of financing through the redeployment of existing resources. We believe that we should strive to achieve increased transparency regarding budgetary figures, and any oral statements on programme budget implications should be provided to the Member States in advance.

I wish to take this opportunity to express the heartfelt condolences of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on the passing of the Permanent Representative of Djibouti. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the 14 States members of the Caribbean Community. We wish to align ourselves with the statement delivered by the representative of South Africa on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and with the statement to be delivered later today by the representative of Maldives on behalf of the Alliance of Small Island States. The outcome of the third International Conference on Financing for Development — the Addis Ababa Action Agenda adopted in Ethiopia — is the culmination of an inter-governmental process that began only a few months ago in October 2014. The process involved multiple rounds of substantive informal sessions with Member States and informal hearings with civil society and the business sector. The drafting sessions and substantive negotiations that followed were intense and protracted at times. In that regard, CARICOM wishes to place on record our commendation to the co-facilitators of the preparatory process, Ambassadors George Talbot of Guyana and Geir Pedersen of Norway, for their committed leadership and fortitude in guiding us to an adopted outcome document. We also wish to commend the Government and the people of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia for their hosting of a successful conference. CARICOM welcomes the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, as presented for our consideration in resolution 69/313. The outcome provides a basis for forging an enhanced global partnership with the objectives of fostering universal and inclusive economic prosperity and improving people’s well-being while protecting the environment. It details a financial plan to address a wide range of issues, including social inequality, climate change, technology, data collection and capacity- building. The action areas noted in the document will be central to the achievement of our collective sustainable development, as laid out in paragraph 19 of the outcome document before us. The post-2015 development agenda, including the sustainable development goals, can be met within the framework of a revitalized global partnership for sustainable development, supported by the concrete policies and actions outlined in the Action Agenda. That is to say, the Action Agenda will support and complement the means for implementing the post- 2015 development agenda. CARICOM takes this opportunity to reiterate a few key issues that must be addressed as we move forward to ensure that Caribbean small island developing countries (SIDS) are in a position to realize the full and beneficial potential of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. We must reaffirm that full consideration shall continue to be given to the peculiar development needs of SIDS, as defined in the SIDS Accelerated Modalities of Action Pathway, cognizant of the necessary identification of the financial instruments and financial resources, including new and additional resources to address SIDS’ major development challenges arising, inter alia, from trade liberalization; global environmental degradation, including climate change; global security and other issues specifically targeted for attention in the post-2015 development agenda. We also reiterate our call on international financial institutions to design and implement appropriate risk-management instruments to fully address the vulnerability associated with the natural disasters and climate-related risk that disrupt the development process in Caribbean SIDS. Finally, we reiterate our call for urgent consideration to be given to the unsustainable and persistent high level of debt that results in the limited fiscal space that continues to hinder the CARICOM region’s path to sustainable development and will undermine the region’s achievement of the sustainable development goals. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called the Addis Ababa Action Agenda a major step forward in building a world of prosperity and dignity for all. Our collective next step will be the successful realization of that agenda — the implementation of the commitments, revised policies and agreements contained therein on the path to realizing our sustainable development. CARICOM reaffirms its support for all efforts aimed at the full realization of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, which is a critical component of the sustainable development agenda of our region and that of all Member States.

May I convey my deep condolences to the Government of Djibouti on the loss of our dear colleague, the Permanent Representative of Djibouti, Ambassador Roble Olhaye. May I also take this opportunity to convey our heartfelt condolences to the Government and the people of India on the sad demise of Sri A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the former President of India. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). We align ourselves with the statement delivered by the Permanent Representative of South Africa on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. We join others in commending the co-facilitators, coordinators and negotiators who helped make this document a reality. Let me extend our warmest thanks to our gracious hosts, the people and the Government of Ethiopia, who played a pivotal role throughout that process. AOSIS welcomes the Addis Ababa Action Agenda as a supportive document complementary to the realization of the post-2015 development agenda, including the sustainable development goals. As we all eagerly await the convening of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), to be held in Paris, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda is also a further reaffirmation of the financial commitments made under the UNFCCC process. What we have achieved here today is another stepping stone on the path towards addressing the greatest challenges faced by the global community. May the seeds we have planted grow to fruition in the coming months and years. The framework we have created is geared to addressing the three dimensions of sustainable development. It recognizes fundamentally that development is holistic and that viable solutions for national development are possible only through increased political will, enhanced partnerships and committed action. The small island developing States (SIDS) have engaged actively throughout the negotiation process, and welcome the recognition of the special case of SIDS in development and the specific provisions for its implementation that this recognition entails, including the linkages with the SIDS Accelerated Modalities of Action Pathway. Although much of the language in the document can be strengthened, we remain convinced that this is the time to fucs on the early start to the implementation of the outcome document (resolution 69/313, annex) and the full realization of the commitments outlined therein. AOSIS remains committed to the full realization of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. Our goal is to eradicate poverty and realize sustainable development.

Japan welcomes the adoption of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda by the Assembly (resolution 69/313, annex). I would like to take this opportunity to express our deep gratitude to the people and Government of Ethiopia for their generosity and warm hospitality, as well as their dedication to making the conference a great success. I also thank the two co-facilitators of the process, Ambassador George Talbot of Guyana and Ambassador Geir Pedersen of Norway, for their tireless work. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda builds on and adds value to the Monterrey Consensus and the Doha Declaration. Japan is starting to implement it in earnest, and expects others to do the same. The Addis Ababa Agenda gives us huge momentum to move forward positively on the rest of the negotiation tracks in this important year, in particular the post-2015 development agenda. As was agreed in Addis Ababa, the post-2015 development agenda will be supported by the concrete policies and actions outlined in the Agenda. I call on all Member States to honour the agreements made in Addis Ababa and refrain from renegotiating it on other tracks. We should also take due care in integrating the relevant parts of the Addis Ababa Agenda into the post- development agenda, such as the follow-up mechanism. Lastly, let me emphasize the importance of ensuring a transparent and a rules-based procedure on the budgetary aspects of all actions taken by the Assembly. The substance of our discussion in this organ is too important to risk any lack of implementation through the United Nations. From that point of view, budgetary aspects should be given due attention and the timeline set in accordance with the relevant rules of the Assembly.

Let me too start by expressing our heartfelt condolences to the people and the Government of Djibouti and to the family of our very dear colleague, Roble Olhaye, who will be greatly missed by all those who admired his exceptional professional and personal qualities. Let me also take this opportunity, first, to express a warm word of appreciation to the people and Government of Ethiopia, who so generously hosted the third International Conference on Financing for Development in the lovely city of Addis Ababa two weeks ago. We welcome the adoption of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda by the General Assembly. I think we must recognize the great contribution made not only by Ambassadors Pedersen of Norway and Talbot of Guyana, but also and very especially, too, by the President of the General Assembly, Mr. Sam Kutesa, who exercised leadership and wisdom in the final stages of the negotiation process. Brazil aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Permanent Representative of South Africa, our colleague Ambassador Mamabolo, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. I would like to present the following additional comments in our national capacity. The third International Conference on Financing for Development outcome document (resolution 69/313, annex) constitutes an important first step on the way to implementing the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and the post-2015 development agenda as a whole. The Addis Ababa outcome has mainstreamed sustainable development into the financing for development framework by recognizing the integration among its three dimensions — social, economic and environmental — in order to make it consistent with the shared vision put forward by our Heads of State and Government at the 2012 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, a process that will culminate in the adoption of the post-2015 development agenda and the SDGs in September. Financing for development has proved to be a valuable, independent process with a scope and challenge of its own, and has made a significant contribution to the implementation of the sustainable development goals. As such, the Addis outcome supports goal 17 and other means of implementation of the SDGs, as stated in its paragraph 19. They complement the existing goal-specific means of implementation, as well as stand-alone goal 17, which are integrated and should be preserved as they are, as essential elements of the framework of goals and targets of our universal agenda. The dedicated and integrated follow-up and review of the Addis outcome is another positive result of the Conference and will also contribute to the overall follow-up and review of implementation of the post-2015 agenda as a whole. The establishment of a technology facilitation mechanism, in addition to being one of the concrete results of Addis, also constitutes an example of constructive North-South dialogue that has helped us make progress on an issue that is very relevant for most and still sensitive for some. Allow me to recall that Member States have agreed that the entire text of paragraph 123 of the Addis outcome will be inserted into the post-2015 development agenda, and that agreement needs to be honoured now. The Addis outcome poses the right questions. We need to make sure that we are able to articulate the right answers to them. In that context, we reaffirm the importance of the mobilization of new and additional resources for development in a way that not only strengthens our commitment to the implementation of the Addis outcome, but also promotes greater ambition in mobilizing new and additional means of implementation for the sustainable development goals. Notwithstanding the progress in Addis, we regret that there was no consensus to upgrade the tax committee to an intergovernmental body, as proposed by the Group of 77 and China and widely supported by civil society, renowned economists and policy-makers around the world, not to mention the media. As we look beyond Addis and to the process that is still ongoing during this important year for the United Nations, we are encouraged by the acknowledgement in the political declaration of the post-2015 agenda of the interlinkages with the financing for development, and we reaffirm our strong determination to continue to contribute to building “the future we want”.

The Government of New Zealand welcomes the outcome of the third International Conference on Financing for Development. We commend the efforts of all those who worked relentlessly over the last month to reach agreement on the Addis Ababa Action Agenda (resolution 69/313, annex). We thank the Government of Ethiopia and co-facilitators Norway and Guyana for their leadership in coordinating a wide range of views to reach agreement and to bring the Conference to a successful outcome. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda is a historic global commitment. It creates a framework that harnesses the diverse range of sources available to finance development, end poverty and ensure that no one is left behind. It makes landmark commitments to empowering girls and women to participate as equals in decision-making. New Zealand welcomes the agenda’s recognition of the constraints that small island developing States face in attaining their development aspirations and the commitment of the global community to addressing these constraints. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda represents a strong global commitment to development, but our work is only beginning. Now is the time to set aside remaining differences and tackle long-standing obstacles to poverty reduction. One example is reform of the international trading system. A successful conclusion to the Doha Round and reforms to improve agricultural market access and eliminate export subsidies could have a transformative impact on developing countries. New Zealand reaffirms its commitment to turning the words of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda into actions that have meaning. We will ensure that our policies, investments and efforts deliver strong results to developing countries within this new framework for development in financing. We look forward to working in effective, transparent and impactful partnerships towards our common goal to end poverty, build resilience and improve shared prosperity across the globe.

I would like to offer my sincere condolences on the passing of the dean of the diplomatic corps, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Djibouti to the United Nations. As many who have spoken before me have said, he played a very important role for us. He was the first person who met us and gave us advice. I express my most heartfelt sympathy to his family and the people and the Government of Djibouti. I am grateful for the timely convening of this meeting to take action on the Addis Ababa Action Agenda (resolution 69/313, annex) of the third International Conference on Financing for Development. I thank President Sam Kutesa for his exemplary leadership in bringing us to the adoption of the agenda; of course, I am grateful to the people and the Government of Ethiopia for their hospitality and the organization of the Conference. George Talbot of Guyana and Geir Pedersen of Norway played key roles in negotiations. I thank them both. We support the statement made by Ambassador Mamabolo of South Africa on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. Colombia welcomes the Addis Ababa Action Agenda as the basis for building the framework for the financing necessary to effectively support the implementation of the new agenda. We believe that the Addis Ababa document complements all of the means of implementation for the post-2015 development agenda. That complementary element is very important because, while we recognize that the Addis Ababa outcome document contains very important components, it neither includes nor exhausts all of the tools and mechanisms needed for the implementation of the new agenda. Allow me to highlight some of the elements that are of great importance to developing countries, such as the mandate for the establishment of a global infrastructure forum that will make it possible to close existing gaps; the mandate to establish a technology facilitation mechanism; the creation of an Economic and Social Council forum to follow up on the process of financing for development, with universal intergovernmental participation; the call on the United Nations development system to respond appropriately to the challenges facing middle-income countries; the recognition of the needs of countries in conflict and post-conflict situations; and, of course, the appeal to the United Nations to develop transparent measurements of sustainable development that go beyond those of per capita income and recognize poverty in its many dimensions and structural gaps that hinder sustainable development. My country believes that we must respect the integrity of the post-2015 development agenda as well as the financing for development process, which are two completely different processes in terms of scope and purpose. The results of the third Conference for Financing for Development, which we have just endorsed, represent a major step forward in revitalizing and strengthening the global alliance for development. We are also convinced, however, that we must continue to work to achieve an ambitious transformative framework that will be commensurate with the current challenges and allow us to close the major technological, economic and social gaps that, despite the major progress that we have made, persist at all levels. It has not been an easy process. Despite the differences and the difficult negotiations, I am convinced that the path we are on — and which will continue with the endorsement of the post-2015 development agenda and the Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change — will establish a basis for sustainable development and the well-being that our countries deserve and need.

We wish first to join in the words of condolence and support offered to the family and friends of the late Ambassador of Djibouti. The Russian Federation attaches particular importance to the challenge of ensuring that the new post-2015 development agenda enjoys the necessary resources for its implementation. The Russian delegation actively contributed to preparing the outcome document of the third International Conference for Financing for Development (resolution 69/313, annex) and fully supports its adoption by the General Assembly today. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda represents an important step towards improving the effectiveness of mobilizing resources for attaining the sustainable development goals. We believe that the implementation of the programme will help to strengthen the catalyst role of official development assistance, stimulate the mobilization of private and public domestic financing, give impetus to development investment financing and improve long-term financing mechanisms. We believe that as a result of the enormous amount of work carried out, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda is robust and ambitious and warrants inclusion in the post- 2015 development agenda. I this opportunity to thank the people and the Government of Ethiopia for their hospitality and their efficient organization and hosting of the third International Conference on Financing for Development. In conclusion, I underscore that our delegation is prepared to cooperate and engage in a fruitful exchange of opinion on different aspects of the implementation of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda so as to ensure an optimal return from its implementation, especially in the context of the post-2015 development agenda.

I would like to take this opportunity to again thank the Government and the people of Ethiopia for being wonderful hosts for the historic and important third International Conference on Financing for Development. We especially want to thank Prime Minister Desalegn and Foreign Minister Ghebreyesus for personally helping shepherd us to a final agreement on the important text before us (resolution 69/313, annex). My Government thanks the Secretary-General, the Under-Secretary- General, the President of the General Assembly and the financing for development secretariat for their support of the Conference. We also want to give special thanks to the co-facilitators, Ambassador Pedersen and Ambassador Talbot, for their strong leadership throughout this process. They ably guided this negotiation over the past eight months, helping to build consensus on an ambitious framework that will help us towards our goal of eradicating extreme poverty and achieving sustainable development. We came together to deepen our collective commitment to ending extreme poverty, promoting inclusive growth and providing the means to implement our ambitious post-2015 development agenda. We are happy to celebrate that achievement with everyone today, and to work together with all delegations to carry forward the momentum from Addis Ababa to a successful conclusion of the post- 2015 negotiations.

Allow me to express our most heartfelt sorrow and sincere condolences upon the passing of the Permanent Representative of Djibouti, Mr. Roble Olhaye. I thank the people and the Government of Ethiopia for organizing the third International Conference on Financing for Development, and commend the co-facilitators, Ambassadors Talbot and Pedersen, for their leadership and arduous work throughout the process. In associating ourselves with the statement made on behalf of the Group of 77 and China and affirming our complete commitment to all the causes shared by all developing countries, Ecuador wishes to ratify its rejection of the position whereby a State is considered to be just another player in resource mobilization and poverty eradication. We firmly believe that, on the contrary, the State, given its intrinsic responsibility, is the key actor in the global alliance for development because it legitimately possesses the capacities to plan, manage and oversee investments through public policy to generate pro-development dynamics. But the global alliance must also be joined by all States, and other stakeholders will have to align themselves and act in accordance with the policy guidelines that the States issue. Furthermore, my delegation wishes to reiterate the reservations it expressed in its closing statement in the discussions in Addis Ababa on paragraph 31 and the first sentence of paragraph 113 of resolution 69/313, as well as the explanations of our national positions that were set out in writing and sent to the financing for development secretariat prior to our statement in Addis. Against that backdrop, we add a voice to the consensus and welcome of the adoption of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda by the General Assembly. My delegation also wishes to express its concern regarding the recording of Ecuador’s statement at the close of the conference. In that regard, our delegation clearly explained its lack of agreement and reservations with the two paragraphs mentioned: paragraphs 31 and 113. In other words, Ecuador has two reservations regarding the Addis Ababa outcome document. There are 17 paragraphs concerning which Ecuador explained its national position on the interpretation of those paragraphs or parts thereof. (spoke in English) That clearly means that our delegation listed 17 explanations of national position but has not expressed reservations regarding these paragraphs and does not oppose them. We believe that a reservation is clearly different from an explanation of national position. (spoke in Spanish) For the aforementioned reasons, Ecuador expresses its concern at the quality of translation at events as important as that of Addis Ababa. We therefore call upon the Secretariat to exercise greater vigilance with regard to the expertise of the interpreters at such meetings, especially when it comes to substantive topics that may be very sensitive to Member States. We also request that all the necessary corrections be made at the communications portals of the United Nations. A copy of this request will be given in writing to the Secretariat, as well as the original statement of 16 July, both in Spanish and English, in order to facilitate interpretation.

First of all, I wish to add my voice to those who have expressed their condolences on the passing away of our friend, Ambassador Roble Olhaye, Permanent Representative of Djibouti. I also wish to extend our condolences to his family, his friends and the Government of Djibouti. I would like to thank the President of the General Assembly, His Excellency Mr. Sam Kutesa, for all his efforts and leadership to achieve the success of the third International Conference on Financing for Development. We also wish once again to thank the Government and the people of Ethiopia for their hospitality and all their support to us. I also thank the co-facilitators. Nicaragua aligns itself with the statement delivered earlier today by the representative of South Africa on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. In our national capacity, we would like to take this opportunity to explain our position. Our country was extremely flexible during the negotiations in Addis Ababa. Our Minister stayed in constant contact with the Minister of Ethiopia. We were, I believe, a very important part of the consensus achieved in Addis Ababa. Nevertheless, we must reaffirm some aspects of vital importance to us, especially with regard to the current negotiating process on the post-2015 agenda. First, we wish to reiterate the importance of common but differentiated responsibilities in the context of the global alliance for development. That principle is relevant as a basis for all international cooperation aimed at sustainable development. That principle must be an integral, central part of the post-2015 agenda. We must keep the process of financing for development separate from the post-2015 development agenda, but we must strengthen the synergies between the two. That process must continue until developed countries meet their financial commitments to developing countries. We would also like to clarify that many delegations have asked for increases in official development assistance in order to implement the sustainable development goals. That request was approved at Addis Ababa. If developed countries were to meet the commitments they made in paragraphs 43 and 44 of resolution 2626 (XXV), of 24 October 1970, which was adopted by consensus, with a timeline for compliance of October 1975, official development aid would more than double, from the current 0.29 per cent of gross domestic product to 0.7 per cent. We also want to clarify that climate financing is extra. At no time should it be classified as part of official development assistance. We also want to stress the fact that there is no single formula or set of measures applicable to all countries when it comes to financing for development. Countries should therefore safeguard their political space to legislate, establish and apply feasible or necessary measures and standards. We must avoid coercive unilateral measures that violate international law and are an obstacle to the development plans of our countries, such as the universally rejected blockade on our sister Republic of Cuba. We would like specifically to mention countries living under territorial occupation. Our country is in solidarity with the struggle and cause of the Palestinian people.

At the outset, I would like to join others in expressing our condolences to the people of Djibouti on the passing away of their Permanent Representative to the United Nations, who also served as the non-resident Ambassador of Djibouti to Canada. We mourn his loss. We would like to extend our congratulations to the people of Ethiopia for their successful stewardship of the third International Conference on Financing for Development. We would also like to convey our sincerest appreciation to the co-facilitators, Ambassador Pedersen of Norway and Ambassador Talbot of Guyana, for their tireless efforts to bring us to consensus. We would also like to thank our partners for the spirit of cooperation and flexibility that enabled us to conclude the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. The Addis Ababa Agenda provides a framework for the mobilization of resources from all sources for the achievement of sustainable development and the elimination of extreme poverty. It will provide us with the means to implement the post-2015 development agenda and the sustainable development goals. The measures set out in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda have the potential to transform the lives of billions and to allow us to attain the future we want. Inevitably, however, in a document of this nature, there are some points where language could benefit from greater precision. While I will not repeat what we stated at the closing of the Conference in Addis Ababa, we will draw other delegations’ attention to our explanation of position, particularly with regard to paragraphs 64 and 117. In conclusion, I would like to once again congratulate the people of Ethiopia, who contributed to the achievement of this historic outcome.

At the outset, we would like to join previous speakers in extending our condolences to the Government and the people of Djibouti on the passing away of a master, the Permanent Representative of Djibouti. We would like to again extend our gratitude to the people and the Government of Ethiopia for their hospitality. Thanks to their warm welcome and excellent organization, the Addis Ababa Conference became not only a memorable event, but also a successful meeting in this year of historic significance for sustainable development. We also would like to take this opportunity to once again express our appreciation to the co-facilitators, the Permanent Representatives of Guyana and Norway, Ambassador Talbot and Ambassador Pedersen, for the leadership and tireless efforts, as well as the dedication, transparency and constructiveness they displayed during the negotiations in New York. Addis Ababa has set an important precedent for the United Nations summit to adopt the post- 2015 development agenda, to be held in New York from 25 to 27 September, and the Paris 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference, to be held from 30 November to 11 December. We are continuing to establish the framework of the global development agenda for the next 15 years, including even this week, during which we hope to finalize the draft outcome document of the sustainable development summit. Turkey is glad that the Addis Ababa Action Agenda offers a comprehensive and transformative approach that encompasses different dimensions of the global development agenda with specific deliverables, such as the technology facilitation mechanism. Lastly, the reference made in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, to which Turkey is not party, cannot be construed as a change in the established legal and political position of the Republic of Turkey with regard to that instrument.

My delegation would like to say how immeasurable our loss of Ambassador Roble Olhaye is. We have lost a teacher, an adviser and a friend. Let me express the heartfelt satisfaction of my Government for the honour and privilege bestowed upon Ethiopia to host the third International Conference on Financing for Development. I would like to thank all the delegations that took the floor to express kind words to my Government. My delegation would like to take this opportunity to thank His Excellency Mr. Sam Kutesa, President of the General Assembly, for his decisive contribution during the negotiations to bring the process to a conclusion. By any measure, what the President did went beyond the call of duty, and we sincerely express our gratitude. We would also like to express our appreciation to the Secretary- General and to Under-Secretary-General Wu Hongbo and his colleagues in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs. My delegation would like to pay tribute to the two co-facilitators, Ambassador George Talbot of Guyana and Ambassador Geir Pedersen of Norway, for the outstanding leadership they exhibited in guiding the process, and we profusely thank them for their tireless efforts to bring the process to a successful conclusion. Our appreciation also goes out to the Group of 77 and China and our development partners for their constructive engagement and for the contributions they made for a successful outcome in Addis Ababa. My delegation would also like to thank the Secretariat and all those involved in making the Addis Ababa Conference a success. The Government and the people of Ethiopia are very grateful and remain indebted for the support. Although it first appeared an impossible task, the spirit of a win-win approach finally prevailed, making it possible at Addis Ababa to go beyond Monterey. That should be the spirit that needs to be brought to bear on the intergovernmental negotiations on the post-2015 development agenda. The tone was set in Addis Ababa, and we are confident that we will bring our work on the post-2015 development agenda to fruition in a similar fashion.

I should now once again like to express my gratitude to the Government of Ethiopia for successfully hosting the third International Conference on Financing for Development and for its able stewardship of the deliberations through the Main Committee, which brought the process to a successful conclusion. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to Ambassador George Wilfred Talbot of Guyana and Ambassador Geir Pedersen of Norway for accepting to undertake the roles of co-facilitators and for so ably and patiently conducting the discussions and complex negotiations in the informal consultations. Those consultations contributed immensely to the positive outcome of the Conference. Finally, I would like to thank all Member States for their valuable contributions to the successful completion of the process. I am sure members of the Assembly join me in extending our sincere appreciation to the Government of Ethiopia and to the co-facilitators. The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 18.