A/77/PV.96 — UN Project

The President #102423

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/77/L.91. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Mr. Nakano Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #102424

I should like to announce that, since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.91, the following countries have become co-sponsors of A/77/L.91: Georgia and Portugal.

The President #102425

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/77/L.91, entitled “Extension of the preparatory period preceding the graduation of Solomon Islands from the least developed country category”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.91?

The President #102426

The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 9.

The President #102427

Members will recall that the General Assembly concluded its consideration of agenda item 11 at the forty-third plenary meeting, on 1 December 2022. In order for the Assembly to take action on the draft resolution, it will be necessary to reopen consideration of agenda item 11. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to reopen consideration of agenda item 11?

The President #102428

I give the floor to the representative of the Philippines to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.95.

Mr. Lagdameo PHL

Philippines #102429

Today marks a momentous occasion, as we adopt the General Assembly draft resolution on World Basketball Day (A/77/L.95). As a globally recognized sport, basketball transcends borders, cultures and languages. It serves as a unifying force whereby people from different backgrounds can come together, bond and communicate with each other, creating connections and breaking down barriers, and thereby contributing to peace. I thank our main co-sponsors, Indonesia, Nicaragua and Peru, for their strong collaboration on this draft resolution. I also thank all those who co-sponsored the draft resolution and those who engaged in the negotiations of the text. I would like to also thank Canada for its contribution to the conceptualization of this draft resolution. We recognize Professor David Hollander of New York University, whose work on how basketball can save the world has served as an inspiration in the process. The adoption of the draft resolution is very timely, as the 2023 International Basketball Federation (FIBA) World Cup of Basketball just started today, 25 August, in three major cities in Asia — Manila, Jakarta and Tokyo. It is an honour for my own country, the Philippines, to host that global competition, because basketball is in our national DNA. We have more basketball courts per capita than anywhere in the world. In 2019, the Philippines had the highest basketball popularity index score globally. In 1975, the Philippines established Asia’s first and oldest professional basketball league, the Philippine Basketball Association, which remains active and competitive to this day. In a statement before FIBA officials, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., stressed that the FIBA World Cup is going to have a very enthusiastic, knowledgeable, loud, passionate crowd every single day. One of the aims of this draft resolution is to declare 21 December every year as World Basketball Day. Basketball was played for the first time on 21 December 1891 at the International Young Men’s Christian Association Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts, United States of America, after Dr. James Naismith, a Canadian physical education instructor, developed the game to keep his students active during the winter months. Today basketball has grown to become one of the most popular and widely played sports in the world. FIBA, basketball’s governing body, estimates that at least 450 million people worldwide are playing basketball today. Basketball has also been a part of the Olympic programme since its introduction at the 1936 Olympics, held in Berlin. Basketball enjoys a strong presence in North America, especially the United States, Europe, Asia and other regions. In 2019, the ground-breaking Basketball Africa League was established and is now a professional league, featuring 12 club teams from across Africa. Women started playing basketball as early as 1892, or less than a year after the game was invented. Women’s basketball made its debut as a regular team sport for women in the Olympics at the 1976 Olympic Games, held in Montreal, Canada. Twenty years later, women’s basketball announced the “We Got Next!” campaign, and soon the Women’s National Basketball Association was established, in 1997. The game has produced some of the most iconic and most recognizable individuals in history — Jordan, Magic, Kareem, Bird, Kobe, Lebron and Curry. These individuals inspired millions of children around the world not only to pursue basketball at the highest levels but also to develop essential life skills, a strong work ethic and a sense of social responsibility. However, the United States is no longer the main source of basketball greats. Now we have Luka, Jokiç and Giannis, easily some of the finest and most recognizable basketball players on the planet today. They are from Slovenia, Serbia and Greece, respectively. Before them, we had Dirk Nowitzki of Germany, Dražen Petrović of Croatia, Manu Ginóbili of Argentina, Yao Ming of China and Hakeem Olajuwon of Nigeria, among others from different regions of the world. Overall, beyond these iconic names, basketball is a global grassroots sport and is played and enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, from organized leagues to casual pickup games. Even here in the United Nations, we have a group of diplomats, led by Deputy Permanent Representatives, who get together and play basketball regularly. Basketball plays a role in promoting health, mental well-being, and community engagement, as it contributes to global health goals. It is a powerful tool for promoting the values of discipline, respect for rules, team spirit, inclusivity and women’s empowerment. The Philippines enjoins all Member States to support and co-sponsor the World Basketball Day draft resolution. Our action today is to honour a sport that people love, to serve as a gift to everyone who views basketball as a pathway to greater heights and sporting excellence, and to further enhance its contribution to global peace and development.

The President #102430

Maybe at a later stage outside the framework of this meeting I can tell members about the interlinkage between the birth of basketball and the spreading of the telephone network. We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/77/L.95. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Mr. Nakano Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #102431

I should like to announce that, since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.95, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft resolution: Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Austria, Azerbaijan, the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bhutan, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Canada, China, Colombia, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, the Marshall Islands, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Myanmar, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Nigeria, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Moldova, Romania, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, the United Arab Emirates, the United States of America, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Viet Nam and Zambia.

The President #102432

Before giving the floor for explanations of position before the adoption, may I remind delegations that explanations are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats. I now give the floor to the representative of the Russian Federation.

Mr. Vorobiev RUS

Russian Federation [Russian] #102433

Sport is a significant achievement in human civilization and a universal language for communication between people. It plays a very important role in the life of every person. It helps not only physical development but also provides an opportunity for self-fulfilment. It breaks prejudices and stereotypes fosters tolerance and makes an invaluable contribution to combating discrimination. The Russian Federation pays great importance to developing international cooperation in the area of sport, as it helps to overcome national and religious enmity, foster understanding between peoples and strengthen intercivilizational dialogue and harmony. We are convinced that supporting sport, inter alia at the State level, is an important factor in bringing together the international community and affirming the ideals and values of sport. In that regard, we regret the fact that the sponsors of the draft resolution (A/77/L.95) yielded to a small group of Western countries and refused to include in the text provisions about equal opportunities for all sportsmen and women, without any discrimination, to participate in international competitions and tournaments. That is particularly odd in the context of the fact that the basketball world championships are starting today. In our opinion, it is not possible to declare an international day to bring people together around sport and at the same time deny the fact that it is unacceptable to discriminate against athletes. We are in favour of sport in the world developing according to its own rules, irrespective of the political situation and, above all, not subject to intrigue or blackmail. Sport must be unifying in nature, and it should not divide people and nations.

The President #102434

We have heard the last speaker in explanation of position before the adoption. The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/77/L.95, entitled “World Basketball Day”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.95?

The President #102435

Before giving the floor for explanations of position after the adoption, may I remind delegations that explanations are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats. I now give the floor to the representative of the Ukraine.

Mrs. Mudrenko UKR

Ukraine #102436

Ukraine welcomes the adoption of the resolution entitled “World Basketball Day” (resolution 77/324) and thanks the Philippines for this initiative, which has materialized in a balanced document. We joined the consensus, as this resolution highlights the important role of sport in promoting peace, cooperation and solidarity. The issue of non-discrimination in sport is important and, at the same time, complex. As we observe Russia’s lament regarding alleged discrimination, we should remember that it is an example of manipulation aimed at legitimizing the crime of aggression, war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Ukraine on a daily basis. We do not consider the treatment of their athletes as discrimination. They are not welcomed in sport arenas because they represent the aggressor State who has been recognized as such by numerous General Assembly resolutions. They perform under the same colours as the Russian army, which kills Ukrainians and destroys our infrastructure on a daily basis. Moreover, most of these sportsmen are affiliated with the Russian army as well. During the Olympics held in Tokyo in 2020, 63 per cent of medals Russia won were received by athletes representing sport clubs and organizations associated with the Russian army. It is impossible to take a machine gun one day in the army that waged an aggressive war and change it to a bow on another day. At the same time, there were examples of real discrimination stemming from the Russian aggression against my country. Several hundred Ukrainian athletes have been killed by Russia since the beginning of the invasion and will never compete at sports arenas. Thousands of Ukrainian athletes were deprived of the possibility of practicing sport and preparing for their competitions because their training facilities were destroyed or occupied, or because unabated missile shelling caused regular air raid sirens throughout the entire country, thus disrupting both the training process and competitions. To secure the moral purity and integrity of sport and the credibility of the international Olympic movement, world sport should show solidarity with the victim, not the aggressor. That is what brings the famous line by Pierre de Coubertin, “O sport, you are peace!” into reality.

The President #102437

We have the heard the last speaker in explanation of position after adoption. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 11?

The President #102438

I give the floor to the representative of Gabon to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.99.

Mr. Biang

Gabon [French] #102439

My country and Germany, together with the Group of Friends on Poaching and Illicit Wildlife Trafficking, wish to reaffirm before the General Assembly our shared commitment to combatting poaching and the illicit trafficking of wildlife in order to put an end to them. I would like to thank all those delegations and countries that supported this process, which has resulted in the draft resolution under consideration today (A/77/L.99). It is crucial to strengthen the fight against the international scourge of illicit wildlife trafficking, which threatens species and ecosystems and undermines our collective efforts to protect biodiversity. This type of trafficking is illegal. It is the fourth most lucrative type of trafficking in the world and poses a threat to the pursuit of sustainable development. It is heavily reliant on the global demand for wildlife species. The illegal, and even legal, trade for wildlife species has given rise to a market that has proven to be particularly lucrative. The issue of the fight against illicit wildlife trafficking requires our attention in more than one respect. The illicit trade in wildlife, whether for subsistence or for lucrative purposes, impoverishes flora and fauna species owing to overexploitation through the establishment of clandestine national, transnational and international networks to sell wildlife species across the world. The draft resolution that we are presenting today recognizes that the phenomenon of wildlife trafficking is associated with transnational organized crime and is therefore an immediate threat, not only for ecosystems but also for security, the rule of law and good governance. There is no longer any need to prove that there is a decrease in the number of species, an erosion of their populations and a degradation of ecosystems. Several million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction. The health of ecosystems, on which we depend, and on which all other species depend, is deteriorating at an unprecedented rate. Judging from the scale of the phenomenon, the relevant conventions and legislation seem somewhat outdated, even though a framework of reference has been defined by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Beyond weakening the means of subsistence, and beyond weaking food security, health and the quality of life across the world, this alarming situation — illustrated by the resurgence in illicit wildlife trafficking — causes economic and financial risks. That is why, alongside Germany, Gabon has updated this draft resolution on tackling illicit wildlife trafficking, in order to take into account recent developments and international policies in the area of the environment. Updating this draft resolution is part of the new post-2020 global biodiversity framework, the Kunming- Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted in 2022, which establishes ambitious objectives to protect and restore nature by 2030, and the CITES Strategic Vision 2021–2030, the objective of which is to ensure sustainable trade in wildlife while remaining aligned with relevant international priorities. It takes into consideration recent developments in the fight against illicit wildlife trafficking, namely the provisions of the recent resolution of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, as well as new elements, such as the link with climate change or the One Health approach, which recognizes the links between human, animal and environmental health. The draft resolution that Gabon and Germany have submitted for adoption by the Assembly today, and which is already supported by 58 co-sponsors, affords us an opportunity to identify the challenges to protecting all of wildlife by considering the implementation of a comprehensive mechanism that would take into account all the dimensions of the phenomenon as the starting point for a solution. The text that Germany and Gabon are presenting today reaffirms the need to adopt legislation that is even more deterrent, in order to prevent the criminal exploitation of wildlife. It is important to maintain the impetus of the work of Governments, civil society, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academia and even international financial institutions to prevent in a sustainable way all human activities that threaten species of flora and fauna. For that, we must strengthen international cooperation. Criminal networks that operate beyond borders exploit the loopholes in our national legislation. We must therefore encourage States to improve border controls. I will conclude by emphasizing capacity-building while underscoring the importance of stepped-up regional cooperation and coordination, reflecting on the ways and means that would allow us to protect biodiversity, focusing on partnerships with other countries, NGOs and with international bodies from other regions, with a view to dismantling illicit trafficking networks. Finally, buoyed by all the foregoing, I can but recommend the adoption of the draft resolution that we are submitting to the General Assembly today. I am persuaded that draft resolution A/77/L.99, in its form and content, summarizes the various points of view of Member States on the subject. I reiterate my satisfaction with the fact that the draft resolution takes into consideration the relevance of the issue highlighted therein. In conclusion, allow me once again to thank all those delegations that participated in the negotiations and their outcome. They lent the crucial support that has brought us to this point. I would also like to reiterate my thanks to all United Nations agencies and NGOs that actively participated in this process. I would like to pay a vibrant tribute to all States and all colleagues who have co-sponsored this draft resolution. It is our wish that this draft resolution will be adopted by consensus.

The President #102440

I now give the floor to the representative of Serbia to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.100.

Mr. Stevanovic SRB

Serbia on behalf of core group of countries #102441

I am honoured to present the draft resolution on the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development, 2024–2033 (A/77/L.100) on behalf of the core group of countries, which includes Argentina, Cuba, Honduras, Hungary, South Africa, Spain, Viet Nam and my country, Serbia. The topic we are addressing is of immense importance as we strive to underscore the vital role of science in our joint pursuit of sustainable development. It therefore seems fitting to start off with a quotation from Nikola Tesla, the great Serbian-American inventor: “The progressive development of man is vitally dependent on invention”. This quotation reminds us that our progress relies on science. Nevertheless, today’s focus is not on any kind of progress; it is centred around sustainable progress. We are facing complex challenges, some of which are existential for humankind. Time is not a luxury we can afford anymore. We cannot repeat the historical pattern of waiting until circumstances force us into necessary actions. In our efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, we have learned two major lessons. First, we have the power to make a difference. It has been shown that progress is not only theoretically within reach, but achievable. We have surpassed certain crucial Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), such as reducing hunger and expanding education. This success was not a coincidence; it was a result of deliberate decisions, well-timed actions and collective dedication in alignment with the MDGs. Secondly, progress remains fragile. The same challenges that we have been trying to address persist, often due to our old patterns of behaviour. The coronavirus disease pandemic set us back, and conflicts have shaken our confidence. Hunger and educational setbacks are returning, and the tools for human dignity and gender equality are strained. Misguided solutions based on fear and ignorance are gaining traction. This year, halfway to the deadline set forth in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is projected that none of the SDGs and only 12 per cent of the targets will be met. We need to regroup. How do we move forward? Our only option is to rely on collective brainpower and knowledge — the science that explains, enables and guides us. If we want to achieve what is not just desirable but necessary, science is our best, if not our only, tool. Knowledge created by science plays a pivotal role in accelerating the implementation of the SDGs. But for this purpose, global science must evolve as well. Knowledge should be more accessible, and its production should be more open to sustainable innovation. Equally important, our focus needs to be on integrating knowledge into the decision-making process. Serbia firmly believes that global challenges require global cooperation. Building on the momentum of the International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development, we have proposed the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development, receiving strong support from like-minded countries in the core group. Clearly, the initiative aims to elevate the role of science in addressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development. This is especially relevant given the statement in the draft 2023 Global Sustainable Development Report that current platforms are insufficient. By advocating this initiative, we aim to establish a broad, long-term platform for collective action, knowledge exchange and international collaboration. The initiative envisions diverse scientific disciplines collaborating to make meaningful progress in sustainable development. We urge UNESCO to fulfil its role as the lead agency in implementing the initiative. We also invite all members to engage in upcoming events and stay informed and vigilant on our journey towards the fulfilment of the SDGs. Let us take this opportunity together to make a transformative impact that transcends borders, accelerates SDG progress and shapes a brighter future for generations to come. Through collaboration, coordination and collective action, we can ensure a robust and successful Decade that leaves no one behind.

The President #102442

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolutions A/77/L.99 and A/77/L.100. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Mr. Nakano Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #102443

I will address the co-sponsorship on the two draft resolutions submitted under this agenda item. First, with regard to A/77/L.99, I should like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.99, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft: Albania, Belarus, Botswana, Canada, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Guatemala, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kenya, Kingdom of the Netherlands, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Malta, Morocco, Namibia, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Republic of Korea, Republic of Moldova, Romania, San Marino, Slovenia, Spain, Thailand, Timor-Leste, United Kingdom, United States of America and Zimbabwe. Turning to draft resolution A/77/L.100, I should like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.100, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft resolution: Andorra, Armenia, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Croatia, Cyprus, the Dominican Republic, Egypt, Greece, Indonesia, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, the Maldives, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Moldova, the Russian Federation, Senegal, Singapore, Slovenia, the Syrian Arab Republic, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United Republic of Tanzania, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and Zimbabwe.

The President #102444

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolutions A/77/L.99 and A/77/L.100. The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/77/L.99, entitled “Tackling illicit trafficking in wildlife”. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.99?

The President #102445

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/77/L.100, entitled “International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development, 2024–2033”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.100?

The President #102446

Before giving the floor for explanations of position after adoption, I would like to remind delegations that explanations are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by representatives from their seats. I would also like to remind everyone that delegations that are sponsors of one or both resolutions may not make statements in explanation of position.

Ms. Orduz Duran COL

Colombia [Spanish] #102447

Colombia believes firmly that science, technology and innovation are critical to achieve sustainable development in its three dimensions for the welfare of humankind and to transition to economic models that are in harmony with nature. In that regard, we welcome the adoption of resolution 77/326 and the proclamation of the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development. We also welcome the inclusion of a gender perspective in the resolution. As the text clearly states, gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls will make a crucial contribution to progress across the Sustainable Development Goals. However, as we have reiterated in various multilateral forums, States have been urging the United Nations system for years to mainstream a gender perspective that recognizes the role of women and girls in technology and advocates for strengthening their participation in it. In that regard, Colombia, in line with its feminist foreign policy, has consistently urged in negotiations for explicit references to the conclusions of the Commission on the Status of Women, particularly those from the sixty-seventh session, which focused on innovation, technological change and education in the digital age. The relevance of something that States have agreed on year after year within an intergovernmental forum specializing in gender affairs, after a long and inclusive deliberation process, should not be questioned. We need a holistic view of the situation that recognizes the contributions of half of the world’s population, with a view to ensuring that the potential of science, innovation and technology can be fully harnessed to improve their lives. We regret that not all delegations agreed to some of this language, but we hope that the International Decade that we are inaugurating with today’s resolution will foster substantive discussions addressing the causes and consequences of the enormous gaps faced by women and girls in science. For that, it will be critical to ensure continued progress in the area of gender equality in multilateral forums, building on what has been agreed in such instruments as the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the agreed conclusions of the Commission on the Status of Women. Colombia will remain committed to ensuring that gender equality becomes a reality.

Mr. Andres Pinto MEX

Mexico [Spanish] #102448

Mexico thanks Germany and Gabon for their work in facilitating resolution 77/325, on tackling illicit trafficking in wildlife. This resolution has historically represented an opportunity for Member States, United Nations bodies and other international organizations to strengthen their alliances and cooperation to promote a comprehensive approach to combating this form of trafficking. This year’s text reflects important advances on the issue. We welcome that it stresses the negative impact of crimes that affect the environment, as well as the recognition that the prevention of illicit trafficking in both flora and fauna can be part of collective international efforts to combat crimes that affect the environment. In addition, we welcome the fact that the resolution highlights the importance of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which establishes clear goals for halting and reversing biodiversity losses. That is why Mexico is joining the consensus on this important resolution today. Mexico’s position is clear. We reject any act that has a negative impact on planetary biodiversity. We therefore deeply regret the removal of the reference to the international legally binding instrument on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction. As everyone is aware, the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction was reached by consensus among the members of the General Assembly through their adoption of resolution 77/321, which is significant when we consider the current state of the rule of law internationally. The implementation of the Agreement is a watershed in the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans, as it is the first international treaty that regulates acts beyond national jurisdiction. It therefore has a direct relation to the illicit trafficking of flora and fauna through its direct and indirect impact on marine life and diversity. We want to take this opportunity to welcome the Agreement’s adoption and urge all States to sign it on 20 September, with a view to ensuring its speedy entry into force. For those reasons, Mexico considers that the resolution on tackling illicit trafficking in wildlife should recognize the adoption of international instruments that seek to preserve biodiversity and reverse its losses.

The President #102449

We have heard the last speaker in explanation of position after adoption. The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 13.

The President #102450

I now give the floor to the representative of Panama to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.93.

Ms. Concepción Jaramillo PAN

Panama [Spanish] #102451

I thank you, Mr. President, for allowing me to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.93 in the General Assembly. As the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Panama to the United Nations, I am honoured to address the Assembly today as a co-facilitator with the United Arab Emirates. I have the privilege of introducing a draft resolution proclaiming the International Day of Clean Energy, an initiative of great importance for the future of our planet. The proposal, presented to the membership on 21 June 2023 by Panama and the United Arab Emirates, is an initiative that seeks to promote awareness of the importance of energy transitions to achieve sustainable development and drive the fight against the climate crisis. We recognize that transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources is essential to tackling our current environmental and socioeconomic challenges, as well as to guaranteeing human survival and welfare on the planet. As Secretary-General António Guterres has pointed out, if we do not end fossil-fuel pollution and accelerate our transition to renewable energy, we will incinerate the only home we have. After weeks of intense negotiations and hard work, we are pleased to present this draft resolution for adoption at today’s plenary meeting of the General Assembly. Through it we also highlight the importance of integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), especially SDG 7, as a guiding framework for ensuring a just, inclusive and sustainable energy transition. Clean energy, including renewable energy, will also be an important element to consider when addressing the challenges of sustainable development, a matter that will be discussed this year during the SDG Summit, the Climate Ambition Summit and later at the twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. I want to express my sincere thanks for their valuable support and endorsement of this initiative to the members of the core group — Bahrain, Brazil, Cabo Verde, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guyana, Morocco, Oman, Paraguay, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Suriname and Uruguay — as well as those delegations that have joined us as sponsors, for recognizing the importance and relevance of the draft resolution. I also want to express my gratitude to all delegations for their proactive participation and flexibility during the negotiations. All of their contributions enriched the process and enabled this document to be balanced and representative of our countries’ diverse perspectives and needs. It has been a joint and collaborative effort that has demonstrated our collective commitment to addressing the pressing challenges to our energy system and our environment. The proclamation of International Clean Energy Day will serve as an annual reminder of the urgency of transitioning towards the clean sources and technologies that can enable us to achieve energy sustainability worldwide and strengthen our commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Climate Change Agreement. From now on, 26 January of each year will be a platform for driving the adoption of policies and practices to promote awareness of the sustainable use of our energy resources and to strengthen collaboration and cooperation through the exchange of best practices, technologies and knowledge in order to promote the global energy transition. That said, I would like to invite those who have not yet done so to join this initiative as sponsors. It would also be an honour to be able to count on the Assembly’s unanimous support so that draft resolution A/77/L.93 can be adopted by consensus. By doing so, we will be reaffirming our collective commitment to a more sustainable future.

The President #102452

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/77/L.93. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Mr. Nakano Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #102453

I should like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.93, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft resolution: Belarus, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, China, Cuba, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, the Maldives, Mauritania, Pakistan, Peru, Qatar, the Republic of Korea, the Syrian Arab Republic, Turkmenistan, the United Republic of Tanzania, Viet Nam and Zimbabwe.

The President #102454

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/77/L.93, entitled “International Day of Clean Energy”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.93?

The President #102455

Before giving the floor to speakers in explanation of position after adoption, I would like to remind delegations that explanations are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats.

Ms. Waldron USA

United States of America on behalf of Government of the United States of America #102456

On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I would like to extend our thanks to the facilitators for the successful shepherding of resolution 77/327. The United States strongly supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 7 to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. To that end, we are pleased to join consensus on this resolution establishing 26 January as the International Day of Clean Energy. As the world confronts the increasingly severe effects of the climate crisis, the United States believes that we must redouble our efforts in the critical decade of the 2020s towards limiting warming to 1.5°C. The energy sector accounts for over two thirds of global emissions. Achieving access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all must therefore take into account the need for a just transition to net-zero energy systems as soon as possible. With regard to the reference in the eighth preambular paragraph to facilitating access to clean- energy research and technology, we underscore our position that trade language, negotiated or adopted by the General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council, or under their auspices, has no relevance for United States trade policy, for our trade obligations or commitments, or for the agenda at the World Trade Organization, including discussions or negotiations in that forum. This includes calls to adopt approaches that may undermine incentives for innovation, such as technology transfer that is not both voluntary and on mutually agreed terms.

Ms. Wood

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on behalf of United Kingdom #102457

On behalf of the United Kingdom, I would like to thank the facilitators for resolution 77/327. We are pleased to join consensus. The global transition to clean energy is central to our efforts to reduce carbon emissions, maintain our commitment to the Paris Agreement of 1.5°C of warming and deliver on our Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets, particularly SDG 7. Key to success is the global transition away from fossil fuels to zero- and low-carbon energy and technologies and renewables to keep 1.5°C alive. The United Kingdom believes that the best option for future, robust and cost-effective energy systems is not locking in fossil fuels unnecessarily through advanced and cleaner fossil-fuel technologies. Abatement technology should only be considered where they are necessary for low-cost decarbonization of the economy and particularly in hard-to-abate sectors. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has emphasized the dire consequences should we fail to act. In addition to committing to phasing out unabated fossil fuels at the twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, we must make immediate progress on the shared commitment we made at the twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties to phase down unabated coal power. Achieving 1.5°C will be impossible without a rapid transition away from coal. Expanding access to the affordable clean energy needed to achieve SDG 7 and meeting our climate-change obligations are interdependent, although challenging, especially for the least developed countries. We all have a shared responsibility to build robust, resilient and diverse energy systems, including by accelerating roll-out of renewables, strengthening the regulatory environment and expanding grid connectivity.

Ms. Segura FRA

France #102458

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union (EU) and its member States. We would like to thank the facilitators as well as all involved for their constructive engagement. During the negotiations of resolution 77/327, arguments were made that energy and climate are unrelated issues. Yet the energy sector is by far the biggest source of global greenhouse-gas emissions. The EU and its member States regret that the resolution does not adequately reflect the indisputable link between energy and climate. We also regret that the resolution contains the mention of cleaner fossil-fuel technologies. We emphasize that joining consensus today does not imply our approval of this formulation, which cannot be seen as a precedent for future negotiations. The EU and its member States look forward to working with everyone to ensure that the decarbonization of all sectors is accelerated and that universal energy access is achieved. We trust the International Day of Clean Energy will contribute to those objectives.

The President #102459

We have heard the last speaker in explanation of position after adoption. The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 18.

The President #102460

Members will recall that the General Assembly concluded its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 18 at its 56th plenary meeting, on 20 December 2022. In order for the Assembly to take action on draft resolution A/77/L.96, it will be necessary to reopen consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 18. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to reopen consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 18?

The President #102461

Members will recall that at its 3rd plenary meeting, on 16 September 2022, the General Assembly decided to allocate sub-item (b) of agenda item 18 to the Second Committee. To enable the Assembly to take action expeditiously on the document, may I take it that the Assembly wishes to consider sub-item (b) of agenda item 18 directly in plenary meeting and proceed immediately to its consideration? It was so decided (decision 77/505 B).

The President #102462

The General Assembly will now resume its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 18 to take action on the draft resolution issued as document A/77/L.96. We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/77/L.96. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Mr. Nakano Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #102463

I should like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.96, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft: Australia, Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Botswana, Bulgaria, Cape Verde, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Finland, France, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Indonesia, Italy, Kenya, Kingdom of the Netherlands, Kiribati, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Morocco, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Tonga, Tuvalu, Ukraine and Vanuatu.

The President #102464

The Assembly will now take action on draft resolution A/77/L.96, entitled “Further modalities of the fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States”. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.96?

The President #102465

May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 18?

The President #102466

Members will recall that the General Assembly concluded its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 21 at its 56th plenary meeting, on 20 December 2022. In order for the Assembly to take action on draft resolution A/77/L.92, it will be necessary to reopen consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 21. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to reopen consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 21?

The President #102467

Members will recall that at its 3rd plenary meeting, on 16 September 2022, the General Assembly decided to allocate sub-item (b) of agenda item 21 to the Second Committee. To enable the Assembly to take action expeditiously on the document, may I take it that the Assembly wishes to consider sub-item (b) of agenda item 21 directly in plenary meeting and proceed immediately to its consideration? It was so decided (decision 77/505 B).

The President #102468

The General Assembly will now resume its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 21 to take action on the draft resolution issued as document A/77/L.92. We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/77/L.92. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Mr. Nakano Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #102469

I should like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.92, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft: Armenia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kingdom of the Netherlands, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

The President #102470

The Assembly will now take action on draft resolution A/77/L.92, entitled “Further modalities of the third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries”. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.92?

The President #102471

May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 21?

The President #102472

Members will recall that the General Assembly concluded its consideration of agenda item 94 at its 46th plenary meeting, on 7 December 2022. In order for the Assembly to take action on draft decision A/77/L.101, it will be necessary to reopen consideration of agenda item 94. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to reopen consideration of agenda item 94?

The President #102473

Members will recall that at its 3rd plenary meeting, on 16 September 2022, the General Assembly decided to allocate agenda item 94 to the First Committee. To enable the Assembly to take action expeditiously on the document, may I take it that the Assembly wishes to consider agenda item 94 directly in the plenary meeting and proceed immediately to its consideration? It was so decided (decision 77/505 B).

The President #102474

The General Assembly will now resume its consideration of agenda item 94 to take action on the draft decision issued as document A/77/L.101. We shall now proceed to consider draft decision A/77/L.101, which is entitled “Open-ended working group on security of and in the use of information and communications technologies 2021–2025 established pursuant to General Assembly resolution 75/240”. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt draft decision A/77/L.101?

The President #102475

May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 94?

The President #102476

I give the floor to the representative of Azerbaijan to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.102.

Mr. Musayev AZE

Azerbaijan on behalf of members of the Economic Cooperation Organization #102477

The delegation of Azerbaijan, on behalf of the members of the Economic Cooperation Organization, has the honour to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.102, entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and the Economic Cooperation Organization”. The Economic Cooperation Organization is a regional organization consisting of 10 Member States across West and East Asia, Central Asia and the Caucasus, thereby forming a vital bridge that connects Europe and Asia. With its strategically unique geographical positioning, the Economic Cooperation Organization fosters a platform for enhancing and enriching regional cooperation in critical areas such as trade, transport and connectivity, sustainable energy, tourism, economic growth and productivity, social welfare and the environment. At a time of complex and interlinked global challenges facing the world, cooperation between the United Nations and the Economic Cooperation Organization acquires additional importance. The unparalleled expertise, resources and capacities of the United Nations find a valuable complement in the regional networks and approach of the Economic Cooperation Organization, which is better equipped to address localized challenges. In this context, we believe that the relations between the United Nations and the Economic Cooperation Organization hold the promise of being mutually beneficial for both organizations. As we approach the Sustainable Development Goals Summit, a watershed moment in assessing our collective progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, the draft resolution before us lays down a solid foundation for extended collaboration with the United Nations and its agencies, funds and programmes in an extensive array of areas that hold relevance for the Economic Cooperation Organization, including but not limited to transport, connectivity, trade, energy, agriculture, industry and tourism. The draft resolution also underscores the challenges faced by landlocked countries within the Economic Cooperation Organization, calling on United Nations agencies and international financial institutions to offer assistance and cooperation in addressing these issues. We are confident that the draft resolution serves as a comprehensive road map for the collaborative journey ahead. In conclusion, I would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to all delegations for their active participation and constructive contributions during the negotiation process and strongly encourage Member States to not only endorse and support the draft resolution but also consider joining it as co-sponsors. We hope to see it adopted by consensus.

The President #102478

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/77/L.102. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Mr. Nakano Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #102479

I should like to announce that, since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.102, the following countries have also become co-sponsors of the draft: Kazakhstan and Pakistan.

The President #102480

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/77/L.102, entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and the Economic Cooperation Organization”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.102?

The President #102481

Before giving the floor to representatives for explanations of position after adoption, may I remind delegations that explanations of position are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats.

Ms. Jimenez de la Hoz ESP

Spain [Spanish] #102482

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union (EU) and its member States. The European Union and its member States support the resolution on “Cooperation between the United Nations and the Economic Cooperation Organization” (resolution 77/330) and encourage further cooperation between the two organizations, in line with the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations. However, the resolution continues to contain language that is problematic for our group. In reference to language concerning the Baku Declaration, the European Union reiterates that the references related to Cyprus in this document are not consistent with existing Security Council and General Assembly resolutions on the issue, nor with international law or the United Nations Charter. As the European Union has consistently expressed this position during the consultations and at the negotiations of the previous iterations of this resolution during the seventy-third and seventy-fifth sessions of the General Assembly, we regret that no effort was made to address our concerns regarding operative paragraph 3. We therefore disassociate ourselves from that paragraph. We also regret that we could not reach agreement on the inclusion of a reference to human rights, especially the human rights of women and girls, in operative paragraph 37. We are gravely concerned by the increasing and systematic erosion of respect for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of women and girls in Afghanistan. Women and girls must be able to participate fully, equally and meaningfully in all spheres of public life, to live free from all forms of violence and discrimination, and to have free and equal access to justice, health care, employment and education, as well as freedom of movement. We reaffirm our commitment to staying engaged and to delivering assistance for the benefit of the Afghan population, within a principled approach. The European Union urges the Taliban to allow women to participate equally and meaningfully in aid and services delivery so that women can engage fully and actively in society, as well as receive aid. Thus, we believe that the implementation of the Advocacy Programme for Afghanistan, including development aid, should be based on the respect for human rights, including those of women and girls, and on respect for humanitarian principles. We trust that our positions will be taken into account in the future so that we can continue to support this resolution.

Mr. Hakobyan ARM

Armenia #102483

I take the floor to explain the position of the delegation of Armenia on the resolution entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and the Economic Cooperation Organization” (resolution 77/330). Armenia had requested the deletion of paragraph 3 of the resolution, which refers to an outdated document adopted back in 2012, which has been reflected in five previous iterations of the same resolution since the sixty-seventh session of the General Assembly and has never enjoyed consensus. The document in question contains one-sided formulations vis-à-vis conflicts, which are quite beyond the scope and the mandate of an organization dealing with issues of economic cooperation. Therefore, the delegation of Armenia disassociates itself from operative paragraph 3 of the resolution and requests that this position be duly reflected in the record of the meeting.

Mr. Aiello USA

United States of America #102484

The United States sincerely thanks Azerbaijan for its work in facilitating this resolution (resolution 77/330) and is pleased to join consensus. We take this opportunity to clarify our position on several issues. We underscore our position that trade language negotiated or adopted by the General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council or under their auspices has no relevance for United States trade policy, for our trade obligations or commitments, or for the agenda at the World Trade Organization (WTO), including discussions or negotiations in that forum. While the United Nations and WTO share common interests, they have different roles, rules and memberships. The United States disassociates itself from operative paragraph 37 on reconstruction and development in Afghanistan. The Taliban’s repressive policies exacerbate the challenges facing the people of Afghanistan and limit the ability of aid organizations to reach vulnerable communities. Supporting the Afghan people, including by helping to address Afghanistan’s ongoing economic and humanitarian crises, is an urgent priority for the United States. With those clarifications, the United States is pleased to join consensus on the resolution.

The President #102485

We have heard the last speaker in explanation of position after adoption. The exercise of the right of reply has been requested. May I remind members that statements in the exercise of the right of reply are limited to 10 minutes for the first intervention and five minutes for the second intervention and should be made by delegations from their seats.

Mr. Çetin

Türkiye #102486

Before I reply to an issue raised in explanation of position read out on behalf of the European Union (EU), I would first like to welcome the successful adoption of the resolution entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and the Economic Cooperation Organization” (resolution 77/330). As a founding member of the Economic Cooperation Organization, Türkiye attaches utmost importance to the role of the organization in the face of current global challenges. In that regard, Türkiye will continue to support the organization for the promotion of sustainable economic development and achieving greater connectivity in the Economic Cooperation Organization region. Furthermore, Türkiye advocates for the advancement of the existing cooperation between the United Nations and the Economic Cooperation Organization and will contribute to all efforts to this end. The explanation of position read out on behalf of the EU as far as the Cyprus issue is concerned, is unfortunately an example of bias and prejudice. A just, lasting and sustainable settlement on the island of Cyprus can only be reached following a process that will be initiated with the reaffirmation of the inherent sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriot people, which were acknowledged by the 1959 and 1960 agreements. The EU admitted the Greek Cypriot administration as a full member despite the overwhelming Greek Cypriot vote in 2004 against a comprehensive settlement. Since then, the EU has been unable to adopt a balanced position on the Cyprus issue. As long as the EU position exclusively reflects the interests of the Greek Cypriots, the EU will continue to disqualify itself from the role of an objective contributor to the efforts in search of a solution. Those who consider the Greek Cypriot side as the sole owner of the island should abandon this attitude. We call on all to focus on the realities. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is one of the two States on the island. The international community should reaffirm the sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriot people and act accordingly. The recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, aligned with our President’s call at the General Assembly last year (see A/77/PV.4), is one of the ways to this end. Türkiye by all means will continue to stand by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and to be the voice of the Turkish Cypriots in all international platforms.

Mr. Pittakis CYP

Cyprus #102487

I am obliged to exercise the right of reply in response to the statement made by the delegation of Türkiye. Cyprus is a United Nations member, the only recognized State on the island under international law, and the international community has no doubts. The remarks just made by Türkiye are objectionable on grounds of both relevance and substance, since they blatantly contradict Security Council resolutions. In relation to the claim that the European Union is biased against Türkiye because Cyprus became a member State of the European Union prior to its reunification — the European Union has proven that it is unbiased as well as instrumental in the settlement of the Cyprus question. The European Union has provided to the Turkish Cypriot community significant financial and technical support since 2006. Allow me to also reiterate that, while the occupied areas of Cyprus are a part of the European Union, the European Union acquis remains suspended in those areas until reunification, something which is not the fault of anyone other than the occupying Power. Türkiye and its secessionist entity in the occupied areas of Cyprus are overtly supporting the partition of Cyprus by proposing a two-State solution outside the long-established United Nations parameters. It should be recalled that explicit references to the established United Nations parameters for the reunification of Cyprus are not discretionary and have been consistently affirmed by the Security Council, including in its latest resolution of January 2023 (Security Council resolution 2674 (2023)) and the press statements of July and August 2023. I would like to reiterate the commitment of the Government of Cyprus to finding a just, factional and viable solution to the Cyprus question on the agreed basis of a bizonal, bicommunal federation in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the Security Council.

Mr. Çetin

Türkiye #102488

I want to state that the counterpart of the Greek Cypriot representative is the Turkish Cypriot representative, who is unfairly absent in the room today. Further details on the issue can be provided by the Turkish Cypriot representative’s office, as needed.

Mr. Pittakis CYP

Cyprus #102489

My delegation fully respects the time of all delegations in this room. Therefore, I will in brief reject in total the revisionism attempted by the delegation of Türkiye.

The President #102490

May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (i) of agenda item 127?

The President #102491

I now give the floor to the representative of Tunisia to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.97.

Ms. Chelbi TUN

Tunisia on behalf of States and Governments members of the International Organization of la Francophonie [French] #102492

On behalf of the States and Governments members of the International Organization of la Francophonie, and as representative of the Tunisian presidency of the eighteenth Summit of la Francophonie and facilitator of the draft resolution, I have the honour to introduce draft resolution A /77/L.97, entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and the International Organization of la Francophonie”. The draft resolution submitted today for adoption by the General Assembly reflects the close ties that unite the United Nations and the International Organization of la Francophonie and highlights the fruitful cooperation that continues to deepen and expand to new areas of interest for both organizations, such as digital issues. Moreover, the draft resolution recalls the eighteenth Summit of la Francophonie, held in November 2022 in Djerba, Tunisia, on the theme of “Connectivity in diversity: digital technology as a vector for development and solidarity in the French-speaking world” and the declaration adopted on that occasion. During the Summit, Heads of State and Government that have the French language in common discussed at length the digital divide and the persistent disparities in access to digital services and called for the promotion of access to digital content and the development of digital skills in young people, women and girls. They also called for the acceleration of digital transformation to make it a vector of inclusion, human, social and economic development and called for the promotion of digital technology as a tool in service of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. The Djerba declaration also contains a strong plea for close collaboration with all stakeholders in order to fight disinformation, illegal content and large-scale manipulation operations, while respecting the protection of freedom of expression, privacy and personal data, which are all questions at the heart of our concerns and debates at the United Nations on the eve of the Sustainable Development Goals Summit, as well as the Summit of the Future, which will be held in 2024. On another level, the draft resolution stresses the importance of partnership and cooperation for the promotion of human rights, the achievement of the SDGs, the improvement of peacekeeping operation performance through increased consideration for cultural and linguistic skills, or even the achievement of gender equality and the promotion of youth participation. The draft welcomes the participation of the Organization of la Francophonie in the Transforming Education Summit and highlights the Digital Francophonie Strategy for 2022–2026, the new Strategic Framework of la Francophonie 2023–2030, as well as the declaration on the French language within the linguistic diversity of la Francophonie, which are all documents that also underline the extent of the commitments of the States and Governments members of the Organization of la Francophonie. Before concluding, I would like to thank all the delegations for their constructive engagement in the negotiation process on this draft resolution, and the Permanent Observer Mission of the International Organization of la Francophonie for its support and assistance, which have greatly contributed to the consensus-based and substantive result that we have achieved. Tunisia, the founding country of la Francophonie, is delighted to pass the torch to France, which will host the next Summit of Heads of State and Government of la Francophonie in 2024. Finally, allow me just to add a small point. As coordinator of this draft resolution, my delegation would like to present orally a minimal editorial revision to operative paragraph 41 as follows. Strike out “the” before “texts” in the fourth line and add the word “very” before “following areas” in the fourth line of the same paragraph. Paragraph 41 will read as follows in its English version: (spoke in English) “Also notes the firm commitment by the member States and Governments of the International Organization of la Francophonie to international peace and security, democracy, human rights, the rule of law, linguistic and cultural diversity, good governance, sustainable development and bridging the digital divide, as reaffirmed at the eighteenth Summit of la Francophonie, and the commitment of the States members of the International Organization of la Francophonie to take specific actions, as agreed at the eighteenth Summit and set out in the Djerba Declaration and texts adopted at the Summit in the very following areas”.

The President #102493

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/77/L.97, as orally revised. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Mr. Nakano Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #102494

I should like to announce that, since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.97, the following countries have also become co-sponsors of the draft, as orally revised: Albania, Argentina, Benin, Canada, Congo, Croatia, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, Gabon, the Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Madagascar, Mauritania, Morocco, North Macedonia, Portugal, Seychelles, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Togo and Ukraine.

The President #102495

The Assembly will take a decision on draft resolution A/77/L.97, as orally revised, entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and the International Organization of la Francophonie”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.97, as orally revised?

The President #102496

Before giving the floor for explanations of position after the adoption, may I remind delegations that explanations of position are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats.

Mr. Musayev AZE

Azerbaijan #102497

At the outset, we would like to thank the delegation of Tunisia for their efforts and able leadership in facilitating the negotiations on resolution 77/331. The delegation of Azerbaijan actively participated in the negotiation process. Azerbaijan recognizes that cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations is essential to the promotion of the purposes and principles of the United Nations. The foundational documents of the International Organization of la Francophonie commit its member States, inter alia, to respect the sovereignty of States, observe the strictest neutrality and promote dialogue among cultures and civilizations. Furthermore, the resolution just adopted refers to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and highlights the importance of developing friendly relations among nations, in accordance with international law. However, since the adoption of the most recent resolution on the same topic, in 2021 (resolution 75/307), two members of the International Organization of la Francophonie have continued to abuse this multilateral format by pushing through false narratives, spreading disinformation, sowing dissension and interfering in the internal affairs of non-member States, sometimes even in breach of the decision-making procedures and in apparent disregard for the positions of other members of the organization. We consider the attempts to promote xenophobic, anti-Azerbaijan positions at the Summits of la Francophonie as pursuing the goal to destabilize the situation in our region and to encroach on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of my country, in contravention of the Charter of the United Nations and international law, as well as the principles and objectives at the heart of la Francophonie itself. Azerbaijan strongly condemns and categorically rejects such destructive, inflammatory and provocative policies and actions and disassociates itself from operative paragraphs 2, 41 and 52 of the resolution, which mention certain documents of the organization that are irrelevant for the United Nations. We request that this statement be included in the official record of the meeting.

Mr. Chumakov RUS

Russian Federation [Russian] #102498

We would like to thank the delegation of Tunisia, as the coordinator of the negotiations, for their constructive efforts to reach consensus. The Russian Federation supported the Tunisian prepared resolution on cooperation between the United Nations and the International Organization of la Francophonie (resolution 77/331). Nonetheless, we would like the record of the meeting to reflect that Russia would like to distance itself from the consensus on operative paragraph 18 on the International Criminal Court (ICC). This is a pseudo structure for international criminal justice, and we have repeatedly pointed this out. Over the past 20 years of its work, the ICC has not managed to achieve tangible results either in investigating the most serious crimes under international law or in implementing the instructions of the Security Council. The pseudo court is just involved in rubber stamping empty reports and justifying aggressive neocolonial policies of the West. Its contribution to achieving sustainable international peace has been destroyed. We have seen this body in action in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya and in the Sudan. The ICC continues to demonstrate its incompetence and its bias, turning a blind eye and blatantly covering up the crimes against humanity of the Kyiv regime. The ICC investigation in the context of the Ukrainian crisis that is being paid for by the West shows once and for all that it has been turned into a political instrument. We would recommend that the Organization of la Francophonie cease its cooperation with the Hague international pseudo court so that it does not discredit itself in the eyes of the international community.

The President #102499

We have heard the last speaker in explanation of position after adoption. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (j) of agenda item 127?

The President #102500

I give the floor to the representative of Fiji to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.94.

Mr. Tarakinikini FJI

Fiji #102501

I have the honour to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.94, entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum” on behalf of the members of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) with a presence in New York. We also acknowledge the guidance of the Cook Islands as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum. The Pacific Islands Forum facilitates regional cooperation between our members to ensure a resilient regional peace, harmony, security, social inclusion and prosperity, all working together to shape a promising future for our Blue Pacific. This draft resolution builds upon resolution 75/288 and encourages further cooperation between the United Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum. Let me highlight a few significant updates in this year’s draft resolution. The preamble underlines our region’s commitment to taking urgent action to address our region’s vulnerabilities to the impacts of climate change. We encourage the international community to consider multidimensional vulnerability, including through a multidimensional vulnerability index, as a criterion to access concessional finance. We recognize the important role and contribution of the United Nations system in the Pacific and welcome the continued mutually beneficial dialogue between the Pacific Islands Forum leaders and the Secretary-General. In this regard, the draft resolution encourages the scheduling of the next meeting between the Secretary-General and the Pacific Islands Forum leaders during the high-level week of the General Assembly in 2023. In paragraph 4, the draft resolution notes the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent as the collective vision of the Pacific Islands Forum for the region over the next three decades. Paragraph 20 looks forward to the convening of the fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS), to be held in Antigua and Barbuda in 2024. Paragraph 10 encourages all parties, in particular the small island developing States, to support the preparation of the next high-level United Nations Ocean Conference in June 2025. In paragraph 14, we acknowledge the far-reaching and enduring consequences of the coronavirus disease pandemic for the sustainable development of SIDS, as envisaged in the Samoa Pathway in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Paragraphs 19 and 27 welcome the progress towards enhancing cooperation between the United Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum and its associated institutions and reiterate the importance of continuing to enhance and strengthen the United Nations field presence in the Pacific with particular regard to the operational activities of the multi-country offices. We believe this draft resolution represents a text that, after consultation, reflects our collective aim of reaching consensus. We regret, however, that the pursuit of consensus has required Forum members to put aside issues of priority for our region. For instance, in 2022, Pacific Islands Forum leaders declared that the Pacific is facing a climate emergency that threatens the livelihoods, security and well-being of its peoples and ecosystems, backed by the latest science and the daily lived realities in the Pacific communities. Pacific Islands Forum leaders have also called for the Security Council to appoint a special rapporteur to produce a regular review of global, regional and national security threats caused by climate change. We would have liked to see recognition of the good work being done on climate and security by the Peacebuilding Fund in our region. Finally, PIF members wish to welcome the adoption of an international legally binding instrument under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction and look forward to its prompt implementation. In pursuing our ambitions as the Blue Pacific, we strive for genuine and enduring cooperation in the spirit of our Blue Pacific principles for dialogue and engagement, which recognize and support the collective strength, voice and priorities of our Pacific region. This sentiment is at the heart of our region’s collective vision, as espoused in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, ensuring that we will ensure and sustain peace and security in our region and that we engage as one region. We believe and are committed to the values of multilateralism, values that bring us together at the United Nations to work for a better future. We seek the broadest support possible across our region to ensure full ownership and accountability in delivering on our shared objectives.

The President #102502

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/77/L.94. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Mr. Nakano Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #102503

I should like to announce that, since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.94, the following countries have also become co-sponsors of the draft: Albania, Canada, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Estonia, France, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Montenegro, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, Ukraine and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

The President #102504

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/77/L.94, entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.94?

The President #102505

Before giving the floor for explanations of position after adoption, may I remind delegations that explanations are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by representatives from their seats.

Mr. Geng Shuang CHN

China [Chinese] #102506

The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) is an important intergovernmental regional organization that has long played an important role in promoting the sustainable development of the island countries addressing climate change and maintaining regional peace and stability. China and the Pacific island countries are all located in the Asia-Pacific region and are all developing countries with a long history of friendship. China will continue to promote more fruitful relations between the two sides based on the principles of mutual respect and common development and will continue to support the PIF in strengthening its cooperation with the United Nations and other international organizations. The ocean is the common property of humankind, and it is a blue home on which the Pacific island countries depend for their survival. Twelve years ago, a serious accident occurred at the Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan, releasing a large amount of radioactive material into the ocean and causing a huge disaster. Twelve years later, just yesterday, the Government of Japan unilaterally and forcibly activated the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean despite the international community’s questioning and objections, which in turn caused secondary damage to the local population and to people all over the world. The disposal of the contaminated water has transnational implications and is by no means a private matter for Japan. It is extremely self-serving and irresponsible of Japan to ignore the public interest and openly transfer the risk of nuclear contamination to the whole world, including the Pacific island countries. There is no precedent for the discharge of nuclear- contaminated water into the ocean, nor is there a widely recognized disposal standard. For a long time there have been grave concerns about the impact of the discharge on the marine environment, food safety and human health. The legitimacy, legality and safety of the Japanese side’s approach have been widely questioned by the international community. The Japanese side has yet to address the major concerns of the international community about the long-term reliability of the water treatment equipment, the truthfulness and accuracy of the data on nuclear-contaminated water and the soundness and effectiveness of the monitoring programme. China and other stakeholders have repeatedly pointed out that if the contaminated water is safe, there is no need for discharge. If it is not safe, then it should not be discharged into the ocean. China calls on the international community to jointly urge the Japanese Government to rectify its erroneous decision, immediately stop the discharge, communicate in good faith with the countries and stakeholders concerned and dispose of the contaminated water in a responsible manner so as to avoid causing unpredictable damage and hazards to the global marine environment and to the health and well-being of people around the world.

Mr. Prabowo IDN

Indonesia #102507

Indonesia welcomes the adoption of the resolution entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum” (resolution 77/332). It is a long-standing principled position of Indonesia to support resolutions that enhance cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations, including the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). Indonesia shares various common interests with Pacific Island countries, covering multiple issues, such as climate change, disaster risk reduction, agriculture, fisheries and tourism, and the development of small- and medium-sized enterprises. Acknowledging similar challenges that Indonesia faces with our Pacific island brothers and sisters, including climate change and sea-level rise, we further welcome new elements in the resolution, including reference to the mid-term review of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, the result of the 2022 United Nations Oceans Conference, as well as the development of the multidimensional vulnerability index for small island developing States. Indonesia takes this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to strengthening our cooperation with the Pacific island countries in responding to our shared challenges, including through capacity-building and technical cooperation. Equally important is to increase our cooperation on issues of common concern and interest, based on mutual respect and with a spirit of promoting common prosperity, security and stability in the region. Going forward, Indonesia will continue to support efforts to strengthen United Nations cooperation with the PIF. It is important that such cooperation be based on the most recent development and progress and that such development and progress be reflected in the biennial PIF resolution.

Mr. Chumakov RUS

Russian Federation [Russian] #102508

With respect to the Japanese starting the process of releasing radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power station, we would like to underscore that the Russian Federation is closely following developments in the situation. We trust that Tokyo will demonstrate full transparency regarding the impact of this process on the environment, provide all necessary information to interested States and ensure opportunities for them to take samples in the region of the discharge.

The President #102509

We have heard the last speaker in explanation of position after adoption. The exercise of the right of reply has been requested. May I remind members that statements in the exercise of the right of reply are limited to 10 minutes for the first intervention and five minutes for the second intervention and should be made by delegations from their seats.

Mr. Nishigori JPN

Japan #102510

We deeply regret that two delegations have chosen to refer to a matter that holds no relevance to this important resolution on cooperation between the United Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum (resolution 77/332). Regarding the water treated by the Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS) at the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear power station, Japan never discharges treated water into the sea in a way that endangers human health and the marine environment. The comprehensive report of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) also concluded that the approach to the discharge of the ALPS-treated water into the sea and associated activities are consistent with relevant international safety standards, and the radiological impact on humans and the environment is negligible. The IAEA and international experts have been reviewing our efforts and the review and monitoring will persist in a transparent way. This matter should not be subject to political discussions. We cannot accept any baseless allegations that lack scientific evidence. Japan remains fully committed to upholding transparency by providing information based on scientific evidence.

Mr. Geng Shuang CHN

China [Chinese] #102511

I know we have other items on our agenda, and so I do not want to take up too much of my colleagues’ time. However, I would like to respond very briefly to the statement by Japan. In his statement, the Japanese representative cited — as has the Japanese Government in its recent position statements — the final assessment report of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), but I would like to draw the attention of delegates to the fact that the Director General of the Agency, Mr. Grossi, repeatedly stressed in the forward to the report and at the relevant press conferences that the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water at sea is a national decision of the Government of Japan, and that the report of the Agency is not a recommendation nor an endorsement of such a policy. I think it is abundantly clear to all that the IAEA report is not a license for the Japanese side to push for the release of nuclear-contaminated water into the sea. The report does not endorse that effort, nor does it absolve the Japanese side of its moral responsibility and obligations under international law. It has transnational implications. This is not a domestic matter of Japan alone. None of their arguments will change the fact that in the next 30 years Japan will discharge millions of tons of contaminated water into the Pacific Ocean. Neither will they change the fact that that will pose enormous risk to the environment and human health, among others. I would like to call on the Japanese Government to squarely address the legitimate concerns of the countries concerned and of stakeholders, to engage in good faith with the countries and stakeholders and to address this discharge of contaminated water in a responsible manner.

Mr. Nishigori JPN

Japan #102512

I will make my second reply brief. I would like to first say that I would not like to see a matter that holds no relevance for this important resolution (resolution 77/332) delaying its consideration in the General Assembly. Lastly, I would like to reiterate that Japan remains fully committed to upholding transparency by providing information based on scientific evidence. That is our commitment.

The President #102513

May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (p) of agenda item 127?

The President #102514

I give the floor to the representative of Egypt to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.98.

Mr. Elshandawily EGY

Egypt [Arabic] #102515

At the outset, I would like to express my appreciation to the General Assembly for discussing today agenda item 131, on sexual exploitation and abuse and implementing a zero-tolerance policy. This item is a high priority of shared importance for all United Nations States Members. Egypt is pleased to introduce draft resolution A/77/L.98, on sexual abuse and exploitation, as it is fully committed to supporting United Nations efforts in terms of zero tolerance for crimes related to sexual exploitation and abuse. That is also part of the important role that Egypt has played in adding this item to the General Assembly’s agenda pursuant to its resolution 71/278, entitled “United Nations action on sexual exploitation and abuse”. That resolution was adopted by consensus based on an initiative by Egypt and holistically addressed that scourge in the United Nations system, including agencies, funds, programmes and peacekeeping missions and special political missions, as well as troops that are not related to the United Nations but given mandates by the Security Council. This draft resolution gives the victims of those crimes high priority by enhancing the reporting measures and the remedial measures taken by the Organization in order to achieve accountability and justice for the victims. Today’s draft resolution is significant because it reiterates our efforts in preventing and addressing sexual abuse and exploitation and in continuing the dialogue, with a view to assessing the progress made and to discussing ways to strengthen it. The draft resolution aims to prevent and address acts of sexual abuse and exploitation while taking a balanced approach that strongly condemns the shameful acts of individuals regardless of the perpetrators and calls for urgent measures to address them and achieve justice. The victims of those acts are the focus of the efforts and attention by the United Nations. The draft resolution does not ignore the important role played by the United Nations, especially peacekeeping troops, who make significant sacrifices to establish peace and stability worldwide. The draft resolution also calls upon the Secretary- General and Member States to give priority to proactive efforts and achieve harmony and consistency between policies and practices in that regard. The draft resolution calls on the Secretary-General to continue to present his annual reports on the progress made. As a country that contributes military and police troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions, and out of its commitment to zero tolerance with regard to sexual exploitation and abuse, Egypt joined the initiative launched by the Secretary-General that designates a group of leaders to prevent and respond to sexual abuse and exploitation in United Nations operations. Egypt has taken a number of important national preventive and remedial measures in that regard. The Egyptian role is not limited to that. Egypt makes effective contributions to build African and Arab capacities by providing training courses through the Cairo International Center for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding. We also develop relevant training materials. Before concluding, I reiterate that coordinated international and national efforts are necessary to end the scourge of sexual exploitation and abuse. Egypt will continue to work with all parties to achieve that end within the context of our international Organization. I express my sincere thanks to all the countries that have co-sponsored the draft resolution and to those countries that will support its adoption.

The President #102516

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/77/L.98. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

Mr. Nakano Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #102517

I should like to announce that, since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed in document A/77/L.98, the following countries have also become co-sponsors of the draft resolution: Argentina, Bangladesh, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Guatemala, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates and Uruguay.

The President #102518

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/77/L.98, entitled: “United Nations action on sexual exploitation and abuse”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/77/L.98?

The President #102519

May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 131?

A/77/PV.96 General Assembly

9. Report of the Economic and Social Council

94. Developments in the field of information and telecommunications in the context of international security

18. Sustainable development (b) Follow-up to and implementation of the SIDS Accelerated Modalities of Action (SAMOA) Pathway and the Mauritius Strategy for the Further Implementation of the Programme of Action for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States

21. Groups of countries in special situations (b) Follow-up to the second United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries

7. Organization of work, adoption of the agenda and allocation of items

18. Sustainable development

127. Cooperation between the United Nations and regional and other organizations (i) Cooperation between the United Nations and the Economic Cooperation Organization

127p. Cooperation between the United Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum

131. Sexual exploitation and abuse: implementing a zero-tolerance policy Report of the Secretary-General (A/77/748)

11. Sport for development and peace

13. Integrated and coordinated implementation of and follow-up to the outcomes of the major United Nations conferences and summits in the economic, social and related fields Draft resolutions (A/77/L.99 and A/77/L.100)

7. Organization of work, adoption of the agenda and allocation of items

7. Organization of work, adoption of the agenda and allocation of items

7. Organization of work, adoption of the agenda and allocation of items

127j. Cooperation between the United Nations and the International Organization of la Francophonie