A/78/PV.45 General Assembly

Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 — Session 78, Meeting 45 — New York — UN Document ↗

The meeting was called to order at 10 a.m.
Vote: A/RES/78/78 Recorded Vote
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✓ Yes (149)
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✓ Yes (126)
Vote: A/RES/78/73 Recorded Vote
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✓ Yes (165)
Vote: A/RES/78/100 Recorded Vote
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— Abstain (1)
✓ Yes (173)
Vote: A/RES/78/75 Recorded Vote
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✓ Yes (163)
Vote: A/RES/78/81 Recorded Vote
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✓ Yes (174)
Vote: A/RES/78/74 Recorded Vote
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✗ No (1)
✓ Yes (168)
Vote: A/RES/78/77 Recorded Vote
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✓ Yes (151)
Vote: A/RES/78/101 Recorded Vote
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✓ Yes (133)
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✓ Yes (86)
Vote: A/RES/78/82 Recorded Vote
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✓ Yes (172)

Reports of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee)

The President #104383
The General Assembly will now consider the reports of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) on agenda items 46 to 58, 120 and 135. I request the Rapporteur of the Committee, Ms. Mariska Dwianti Dhanutirto of Indonesia, to introduce the reports of the Committee in one intervention. Ms. Dhanutirto (Indonesia), Rapporteur of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee): I have the honour to introduce to the General Assembly the reports of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) submitted under agenda items 46 to 58, 120 and 135. These reports, contained in documents A/78/417 to A/78/431, include the texts of draft resolutions and decisions recommended to the Assembly for adoption. For the convenience of delegations, a checklist prepared by the Secretariat of action taken by the Committee is contained in A/C.4/78/INF/3. During the main part of the seventy-eighth session, the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) held a total of 26 formal meetings, in the course of which it adopted 33 draft resolutions and three draft decisions, including its proposed programme of work for the seventy-ninth session. The first report, submitted under agenda item 46, “Assistance in mine action”, is contained in document A/78/417. The draft resolution submitted under this agenda item is contained in paragraph 8 of the Committee’s report. The second report, submitted under agenda item   47, “Effects of atomic radiation”, is contained in document A/78/418. The draft resolution submitted under this agenda item is contained in paragraph 8 of the Committee’s report. The third report, submitted under agenda item 48, “International cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space”, is contained in document A/78/419. The draft resolution submitted under this agenda item is contained in paragraph 8 of the Committee’s report. During its consideration of this agenda item, the Committee held a number of meetings of the Working Group of the Whole, chaired by the delegation of the United Arab Emirates. The fourth report, submitted under agenda item 49, “United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East” (UNRWA), is contained in document A/78/420. In connection with this agenda item, the Committee considered the report of UNRWA (A/78/13) and other relevant reports, after hearing introductory statements by the Director of the UNRWA Representative Office in New York on behalf of the Commissioner-General of UNRWA and by the Rapporteur of the Working Group on the Financing of UNRWA. The Committee adopted three draft resolutions relating to various aspects of the work of UNRWA, as contained in paragraph 13 of its report. The fifth report, submitted under agenda item 50, “Israeli practices and settlement activities affecting the rights of the Palestinian people and other Arabs of the occupied territories”, is contained in document A/78/421. In connection with this agenda item, the Committee considered the fifty-fifth report of the Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian People and Other Arabs of the Occupied Territories (A/78/553) and other reports by the Secretary-General on the agenda item, after hearing the introductory statements by the Chair of that Special Committee and by the Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights. The Fourth Committee proposes for adoption three draft resolutions, as contained in paragraph 13 of its report. The sixth report, relating to agenda item 51, “Comprehensive review of the whole question of peacekeeping operations in all their aspects”, is contained in document A/78/422. Under this agenda item, the Fourth Committee heard introductory statements by the Under-Secretary-General for Operational Support, the Assistant Secretary-General for Rule of Law and Security Institutions on behalf of the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, and the Director of the Administrative Law Division of the Department of Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance on behalf of the Under-Secretary-General for Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance. Many of the issues raised during the general debate under this agenda item will be further considered by the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations at its 2024 session, the report of which will be considered by the Fourth Committee at a resumed session to be held in the first half of 2024. The seventh report of the Committee, relating to agenda item 52, “Comprehensive review of special political missions”, is contained in document A/78/423 and contains a draft resolution in paragraph 8. Under this agenda item, the Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas in the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations introduced, on behalf of the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, the report of the Secretary-General on overall policy matters pertaining to special political missions (A/78/307). The Committee also heard a statement by the Under-Secretary-General for Operational Support. The eighth report, submitted under agenda item 53, “Questions relating to information”, is contained in document A/78/424. Under this item, the Fourth Committee considered the report of the Committee on Information (A/78/21) and the related report of the Secretary-General (A/78/294). It was also briefed by the Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications about her Department’s efforts to promote the message of the United Nations around the world. The Fourth Committee proposes for adoption two draft resolutions contained in paragraph 9 of its report. Consistent with its methods of work, with regard to agenda items 54 to 58, the cluster of items on non-self- governing territories and the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, the Committee considered these five items together, holding a joint general debate on them and hearing 158 petitioners on issues relating to various non-self- governing territories. It also heard statements by the Premier of the British Virgin Islands, the President of French Polynesia, the Deputy Chief Minister of Gibraltar and representatives of the Governor of Guam and of the Government of New Caledonia. Under these items, the General Assembly has before it five reports as follows. Under item 54, “Information from Non-Self- Governing Territories transmitted under Article 73 e of the Charter of the United Nations”, the Committee’s report is contained in document A/78/425. The draft resolution submitted under this item is contained in paragraph 8 of the report. The Committee’s report on item 55, “Economic and other activities which affect the interests of the peoples of the Non-Self-Governing Territories”, is contained in document A/78/426. The draft resolution submitted under this item is contained in paragraph 8 of the report. With regard to item 56, “Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples by the specialized agencies and the international institutions associated with the United Nations”, the Committee’s report is contained in document A/78/427. The draft resolution submitted under this item is contained in paragraph 8 of the report. The Committee’s report relating to item 57, “Offers by Member States of study and training facilities for inhabitants of Non-Self-Governing Territories”, is contained in document A/78/428. The draft resolution submitted under this item is contained in paragraph 8 of the report. The report submitted under agenda item 58, “Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples”, is contained in document A/78/429. Under this item, the Committee adopted a number of draft resolutions and a draft decision on matters relating to the implementation of the Declaration and the Non-Self-Governing Territories, as contained in paragraphs 33 and 34 of its report. With regard to item 120, “Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly”, the draft decision containing the proposed programme of work and timetable of the Fourth Committee for the seventy-ninth session of the General Assembly is contained in paragraph 6 of document A/78/430. The Committee recommends this draft decision to the Assembly for adoption. The need did not arise for the Committee to take up item 135, “Programme planning”, as indicated in the report of the Committee contained in document A/78/431. I have the honour to submit to the General Assembly for its consideration and adoption the draft resolutions and draft decisions recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in its reports, contained in documents A/78/417 to A/78/431. Before concluding, I would like to commend the high level of cooperation prevailing in the Committee, which enabled it to fulfil the mandate entrusted to it by the Assembly and to complete its work effectively and constructively well ahead of the proposed deadline. On behalf of the Bureau of the Committee, I should like to express our sincere appreciation to all delegations for their constructive participation throughout the main session. I would like to pay particular tribute to the Chair of the Fourth Committee, Ambassador Mathu Joyini of South Africa, whose knowledge, experience and consummate diplomatic skills enabled the Committee to consider in depth all the agenda items allocated to it. The other members of the Bureau  — Mr. Joaquín Alberto Pérez Ayestarán of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Ms. Sara Rendtorff-Smith of Denmark and Mr. Patryk Jakub Woszczek of Poland, with whom I had the pleasure of working closely — also contributed greatly, individually and collectively, to the successful conclusion of the Committee’s work. I would also like to place on record our thanks to the secretariat of the Fourth Committee, located in the Disarmament and Peace Affairs Branch of the Department for General Assembly and Conference Management, for its competent and valuable assistance.
The President #104384
I thank the Rapporteur of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee). The positions of delegations regarding the recommendations of the Committee have been made clear in the Committee and are reflected in the relevant official records. If there is no proposal under rule 66 of the rules of procedure, I shall therefore take it that the General Assembly decides not to discuss the reports of the Fourth Committee that are before the Assembly today.

58.  Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/429)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

79.  Report of the International Law Commission on the work of its seventy-third and seventy-fourth sessions Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/435)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

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

Vote: 78/528 Consensus
It was so decided.

49.  United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/420)

Vote: 31/37 Recorded Vote
✓ 165   ✗ 4   6 abs.
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✓ Yes (165)

50.  Israeli practices and settlement activities affecting the rights of the Palestinian People and other Arabs of the occupied territories Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/421)

Vote: 31/37 Recorded Vote
✓ 86   ✗ 12   75 abs.
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✓ Yes (86)
The President #104385
Statements will therefore be limited to explanations of vote or position. I would like to remind members that, in accordance with decision 34/401, “a delegation should, as far as possible, explain its vote only once, i.e., either in the Committee or in plenary meeting, unless that delegation’s vote in plenary meeting is different from its vote in the Committee.” I also want to remind delegations that explanations of vote or position are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats. When there are multiple proposals under an agenda item, statements in explanation of vote before the voting on any or all such proposals should be made in one intervention, followed by action on all of them one by one. After that, there will also be an opportunity for statements in explanation of vote after the voting on any or all of the proposals in one intervention. Before we begin to take action on the recommendations contained in the reports of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee), I would like to advise representatives that we will proceed to take decisions in the same manner as was done in the Committee, unless the Secretariat is notified otherwise in advance. This means that where recorded votes were taken, we will do the same. I therefore hope that we may proceed to adopt without a vote those recommendations that were adopted without a vote in the Committee. The results of the votes will be uploaded on the e-DeleGATE portal under plenary announcements. I would like to draw the attention of members to a note by the Secretariat, in English only, entitled “Proposals contained in the reports of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) for consideration by the General Assembly”, which has been circulated as document A/C.4/78/INF/3. Members are reminded that additional sponsors are no longer accepted now that draft resolutions and decisions have been adopted by the Committee. Any clarifications about sponsorship should be addressed to the Secretary of the Committee. Furthermore, any corrections to the voting intentions of delegations after the voting has concluded on a proposal should be addressed directly to the Secretariat after the meeting. I count on members’ cooperation in avoiding any interruptions to our proceedings in that regard.

46.  Assistance in mine action Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/417)

The President #104386
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Vote: 32/413 Consensus
Vote: 32/413 Consensus
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/70).
The President #104387
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 46?
Vote: 32/413 Recorded Vote
✓ 168   ✗ 1   10 abs.
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✗ No (1)
✓ Yes (168)
Vote: 32/413 Recorded Vote
✓ 151   ✗ 2   23 abs.
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✓ Yes (151)
It was so decided.
Vote: 31/100 Consensus

47.  Effects of atomic radiation Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/418)

The President #104388
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/71).
The President #104389
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 47?
Vote: 31/100 Recorded Vote
✓ 163   ✗ 5   9 abs.
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✓ Yes (163)
Vote: 31/100 Recorded Vote
✓ 149   ✗ 6   19 abs.
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✓ Yes (149)
Vote: 32/95 Consensus
It was so decided.

48.  International cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/419)

The President #104390
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/72)
Vote: 31/169 Consensus
The President #104391
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 48?
It was so decided.
The President #104392
The Assembly has before it three draft resolutions recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 13 of its report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I to III, one by one. We turn first to draft resolution I, entitled “Operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Nigeria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
Vote: 32/97 Consensus
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution I was adopted by 165 votes to 4, with 6 abstentions (resolution 78/73).
The President #104393
Draft resolution II is entitled “Assistance to Palestine refugees”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Nigeria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
Vote: 32/98 Consensus
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution II was adopted by 168 votes to 1, with 10 abstentions (resolution 78/74).
The President #104394
Draft resolution III is entitled “Palestine refugees’ properties and their revenues”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Nigeria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
Vote: 32/99 Consensus
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution III was adopted by 163 votes to 5, with 9 abstentions (resolution 78/75).
The President #104395
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 49?
Vote: 32/100 Consensus
It was so decided.
The President #104396
The Assembly has before it three draft resolutions recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 13 of its report. We will now take decisions on draft resolutions I to III, one by one. We turn first to draft resolution I, entitled “Work of the Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian People and Other Arabs of the Occupied Territories”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Nigeria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Vote: 32/101 Consensus
Draft resolution I was adopted by 86 votes to 12, with 75 abstentions (resolution 78/76).
The President #104397
Draft resolution II is entitled “The occupied Syrian Golan”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Nigeria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Vote: 35/94 Consensus
Draft resolution II was adopted by 151 votes to 2, with 23 abstentions (resolution 78/77).
The President #104398
Draft resolution III is entitled “Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the occupied Syrian Golan”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Nigeria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Vote: 33/173 Consensus
Draft resolution III was adopted by 149 votes to 6, with 19 abstentions (resolution 78/78).
The President #104399
I shall now call on those representatives who wish to speak in explanation of vote on the resolutions just adopted.
Mr. Rae CAN Canada #104400
While Canada did not support resolution 78/78, which was just adopted, we consider it essential that we signal our heightened concern about the extremist violence of terror attacks against Israeli civilians and the ongoing fighting in Gaza, with its tragic consequences. The continued growth of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and the rise in extremist violence deeply undermine the prospects for peace between Israelis and Palestinians, and it is peace that should be at the forefront of our minds and our work. On 7 October, an ongoing ceasefire between Hamas  — a terrorist group controlling the Gaza Strip  — and the State of Israel was shattered when Hamas launched an unprecedented and brutal attack on Israel, killing more than 1,200 children, women and men, most of whom were civilians. The victims of that attack were subject to rape, torture, murder and desecration of their bodies. The brutality of the attack has been revealed by evidence that the perpetrators recorded themselves and cannot be denied. More than 200 people were kidnapped. Some have been released as a result of negotiations, but many remain captured in Gaza, and we call once again today for the release of all hostages taken on that day. (spoke in French) At the same time, we fully recognize that there has been a sharp increase in violence by extremist settlers in the West Bank since the terrorist attacks of 7 October, and the perpetrators have not been held accountable. That is part of a wider trend of worrisome developments linked to Israeli settlements over the past year, during which the Israeli Government has taken several measures that have accelerated and consolidated the growth of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. This year, the Israeli Government approved thousands of new settlement projects. It sought out and legalized illegal outposts and placed the administration of the settlements under the authority of a civilian minister. Those actions, which Canada considers violations of international law, have served only to further complicate the prospects for a negotiated two-State solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. (spoke in English) Nevertheless, Canada did not vote in favour of resolution 78/78, owing to its long-standing position that, frankly, there are too many resolutions related solely to the Arab-Israeli conflict that continue to single out Israel, and no other country, for criticism. We have long advocated a fair-minded approach in the General Assembly and at the United Nations, and we will continue to vote against draft resolutions that do not address the complexities of the issues, or do not seek to address the actions and responsibilities of all the parties, including the destructive role of terrorist organizations such as Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad in the current conflict. We cannot simply debate abstract principles year after year, or spend all our time litigating the past. Two States means clear borders and clear boundaries. It means mutual respect. It means an end to violence. And it means an end to terror. It means ensuring that States have the capacity to govern themselves. It means ensuring that States are viable, which is why we have drawn attention to the issue of the settlements today. There is no point in signing agreements that any reasonable person would know cannot be sustained, supported, observed or respected, which is why negotiations have been difficult — but let us remember, they have been taking place for many years. The path to two States living side by side will require difficult compromises. Negotiating cannot simply mean dusting off old arguments, or the ritual repetition of formulas that cannot achieve the necessary political support to enable them to work. There is no point in asking someone to do something that they simply cannot do. Above all, it means a common fight against extremism and a common fight for democracy and respect for law and human dignity. The path will be difficult, but not nearly as difficult as the road that we are now on. Canada is deeply committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a Palestinian State living side by side in peace and security with Israel. Canada stands ready to support all efforts to achieve the two-State solution, as the basis for lasting peace in the region.
Vote: 39/192 Consensus
Mr. Ray NPL Nepal #104401
I take the floor to explain my delegation’s vote on resolution 78/77, entitled “The occupied Syrian Golan”, and resolution 78/78, entitled “Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the occupied Syrian Golan”. Peaceful coexistence, respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-aggression, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, are among the fundamentals of our foreign policy. The security and stability of one and all countries are founded on those principles. Nepal reiterates its call for creating the conditions for dialogue and diplomacy, which are the only pathways for a lasting political solution and resolving conflicts and disagreements in the Middle East region. Since the beginning, Nepal has been in favour of the two-State solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security with their neighbours, within internationally recognized borders, based on international law and the relevant United Nations resolutions. Therefore, based on Nepal’s long-standing principled position on the inviolability of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the political independence of all States, as well as its unwavering respect for international law, the rules-based multilateral system and the United Nations Charter, my delegation voted in favour of resolutions 78/77 and 78/78. However, the Government of Nepal strongly condemned the terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel, which resulted in the loss of the precious lives of hundreds of people, including 10 Nepalese. With equal gravity, we are against the indiscriminate use of force against civilians by both parties involved in the conflict, which have killed hundreds of people, including children, women, the elderly, medical personnel and patients. Nothing can justify inflicting suffering on and killing innocent people, whether Palestinians or Israelis. We are deeply concerned about our missing student, Mr. Bipin Joshi, and we request all those concerned to ensure his safety and unconditional release. We also encourage the unconditional release of all hostages. To that end, Nepal supports the efforts of the Secretary- General to de-escalate the war, open humanitarian corridors and allow unrestricted humanitarian relief.
The President #104402
We have heard the last speaker in explanation of vote. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 50?
It was so decided.
Vote: 351/97 Consensus

51.  Comprehensive review of the whole question of peacekeeping operations in all their aspects Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/422)

The President #104403
May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to take note of the report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) contained in document A/78/422? It was so decided (decision 78/512).
The President #104404
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 51.

52.  Comprehensive review of special political missions Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/423)

The President #104405
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Vote: 40/143 Consensus
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/79).
The President #104406
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 52?
It was so decided.

53.  Questions relating to information Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/424)

The President #104407
The Assembly has before it two draft resolutions, A and B, recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 9 of its report. We will now take a decision on the two draft resolutions, one by one. Draft resolution A is entitled “Information in the service of humanity”. The Committee adopted draft resolution A without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Vote: 40/144 Recorded Vote
✓ 173   ✗ 3   1 abs.
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— Abstain (1)
✓ Yes (173)
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/80 A).
The President #104408
Draft resolution B is entitled “United Nations Global Communications policies and activities”. The Committee adopted draft resolution B without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/80 B).
The President #104409
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 53?
Vote: 37//6/ Recorded Vote
✓ 133   ✗ 3   42 abs.
Show country votes
✓ Yes (133)
It was so decided.

54.  Information from Non-Self-Governing Territories transmitted under Article 73 e of the Charter of the United Nations Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/425)

The President #104410
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Nigeria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
A recorded vote was taken.
The draft resolution was adopted by 174 votes to 2, with 2 abstentions (resolution 78/81).
The President #104411
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 54?
It was so decided.

55.  Economic and other activities which affect the interests of the peoples of the Non-Self-Governing Territories Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/426)

The President #104412
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegations of Namibia and Nigeria informed the Secretariat that they had intended to vote in favour.]
A recorded vote was taken.
The draft resolution was adopted by 172 votes to 2, with 3 abstentions (resolution 78/82).
The President #104413
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 55?
It was so decided.

56.  Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples by the specialized agencies and the international institutions associated with the United Nations Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/427)

The President #104414
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Nigeria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour and the delegation of Bulgaria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to abstain.]
A recorded vote was taken.
The draft resolution was adopted by 126 votes to 2, with 51 abstentions (resolution 78/83).
The President #104415
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 56?
It was so decided.

57.  Offers by Member States of study and training facilities for inhabitants of Non-Self-Governing Territories Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/428)

The President #104416
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/84).
The President #104417
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 57?
It was so decided.
The President #104418
The Assembly has before it 17 draft resolutions and a draft decision recommended by the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in paragraphs 33 and 34 of its report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I to XVII and on the draft decision, one by one. We turn first to draft resolution I, entitled “Question of Western Sahara”. The Committee adopted draft resolution I without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 78/85).
The President #104419
Draft resolution II is entitled “Question of American Samoa”. The Committee adopted draft resolution II without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 78/86).
The President #104420
Draft resolution III is entitled “Question of Anguilla”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution III was adopted (resolution 78/87).
The President #104421
Draft resolution IV is entitled “Question of Bermuda”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution IV was adopted (resolution 78/88).
The President #104422
Draft resolution V is entitled “Question of the British Virgin Islands”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution V was adopted (resolution 78/89).
The President #104423
Draft resolution VI is entitled “Question of the Cayman Islands”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution VI was adopted (resolution 78/90).
The President #104424
Draft resolution VII is entitled “Question of French Polynesia”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution VII was adopted (resolution 78/91).
The President #104425
Draft resolution VIII is entitled “Question of Guam”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution VIII was adopted (resolution 78/92).
The President #104426
Draft resolution IX is entitled “Question of Montserrat”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution IX was adopted (resolution 78/93).
The President #104427
Draft resolution X is entitled “Question of New Caledonia”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution X was adopted (resolution 78/94).
The President #104428
Draft resolution XI is entitled “Question of Pitcairn”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution XI was adopted (resolution 78/95).
The President #104429
Draft resolution XII is entitled “Question of Saint Helena”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution XII was adopted (resolution 78/96).
The President #104430
Draft resolution XIII is entitled “Question of Tokelau”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution XIII was adopted (resolution 78/97).
The President #104431
Draft resolution XIV is entitled “Question of the Turks and Caicos Islands”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution XIV was adopted (resolution 78/98).
The President #104432
Draft resolution XV is entitled “Question of the United States Virgin Islands”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution XV was adopted (resolution 78/99).
The President #104433
We now turn to draft resolution XVI, entitled “Dissemination of information on decolonization”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Nigeria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution XVI was adopted by 173 votes to 3, with 1 abstention (resolution 78/100).
The President #104434
We now turn to draft resolution XVII, entitled “Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Nigeria informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution XVII was adopted by 133 votes to 3, with 42 abstentions (resolution 78/101).
The President #104435
We shall now take action on the draft decision entitled “Question of Gibraltar”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/513).
The President #104436
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 58.

120.  Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/430)

The President #104437
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Committee in its report. We will now take action on the draft decision, entitled “Proposed programme of work and timetable of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) for the seventy-ninth session of the General Assembly”. The Committee adopted it without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/514).
The President #104438
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 120.

135.  Programme Planning Report of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) (A/78/431)

The President #104439
May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to take note of the report of the Committee? It was so decided (decision 78/515).
The President on behalf of General Assembly #104440
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 135. The General Assembly has concluded its consideration of all the reports of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) before it for this meeting. On behalf of the General Assembly, I would like to thank Her Excellency Ms. Mathu Joyini of South Africa, Chair of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee), the members of the Bureau, as well as the delegates and the Committee Secretary for a job well done. Reports of the Sixth Committee
The President #104441
The General Assembly will now consider the reports of the Sixth Committee on agenda items 76 to 79, 81 to 87, 109, 120, 135 and 161 to 171. I request the Rapporteur of the Sixth Committee, Mr. Moussa Mohamed Moussa of Djibouti, to introduce the reports of the Committee in one intervention. I am from an old continent and a small country and region. I should like to conclude by sharing the following proverb from the African continent: When the baobab of the rule of law is planted, its shade will provide justice to the entire community.
Mr. Seah (Singapore), Vice-President, took the Chair.
The Acting President #104442
I thank the Rapporteur of the Sixth Committee. The positions of delegations regarding the recommendations of the Sixth Committee have been made clear in the Committee and are reflected in the relevant official records. Therefore, if there is no proposal under rule 66 of the rules of procedure, I shall take it that the General Assembly decides not to discuss the reports of the Sixth Committee that are before the Assembly today.
It was so decided.
The Acting President #104443
Statements will therefore be limited to explanations of vote or position. May I remind members that, in accordance with General Assembly decision 34/401, a delegation should, as far as possible, explain its vote only once, that is, either in the Committee or in plenary meeting, unless that delegation’s position in plenary meeting is different from its position in the Committee, and that explanations are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats. When there are multiple proposals under an agenda item, statements in explanation of vote before the voting on any or all such proposals should be made in one intervention, followed by action on all of them, one by one. Thereafter, there will be an opportunity for statements in explanation of vote after the voting on any or all the proposals in one intervention. Before we proceed to take action on the recommendations contained in the reports of the Sixth Committee, I should like to advise representatives that we will proceed to take decisions in the same manner as was done in the Committee, unless the Secretariat is notified otherwise in advance. I therefore hope that we may proceed to adopt without a vote the recommendations that were adopted without a vote in the Committee. Members are reminded that additional sponsors are no longer accepted now that draft resolutions and decisions have been adopted by the Committee. Any clarification about sponsorship should be addressed to the Secretary of the Committee.

76.  Criminal accountability of United Nations officials and experts on mission Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/432)

The Acting President #104444
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Sixth Committee in its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/102).
The Acting President #104445
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 76?
It was so decided.

77.  Report of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law on the work of its fifty- sixth session Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/433)

The Acting President #104446
The Assembly has before it four draft resolutions recommended by the Sixth Committee in its report. We will now take decisions on draft resolutions I to IV, one by one. We turn first to draft resolution I, entitled “Report of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law on the work of its fifty-sixth session”. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/103).
The Acting President #104447
Draft resolution II is entitled “Model Provisions on Mediation for International Investment Disputes and Guidelines on Mediation for International Investment Disputes of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law”. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/104).
The Acting President #104448
Draft resolution III is entitled “Code of Conduct for Arbitrators in International Investment Dispute Resolution and Code of Conduct for Judges in International Investment Dispute Resolution with respective commentary of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law”. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/105).
The Acting President #104449
Draft resolution IV is entitled “Guide on Access to Credit for Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law”. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/106).
The Acting President #104450
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 77?
It was so decided.

78.  United Nations Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/434)

The Acting President #104451
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution entitled “United Nations Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law”. The Sixth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/107).
The Acting President #104452
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 78?
It was so decided.
The Acting President #104453
The Assembly has before it two draft resolutions recommended by the Committee in paragraph 11 of its report. We will now take a decision on the two draft resolutions, one by one. We turn first to draft resolution I, entitled “Report of the International Law Commission on the work of its seventy-fourth session”. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 78/108).
The Acting President #104454
Draft resolution II is entitled “Peremptory norms of general international law (jus cogens)”. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 78/109).
The Acting President #104455
I give the floor to the representative of Mexico, who wishes to speak in explanation of position on resolution 78/109.
Mrs. Jiménez Alegría MEX Mexico [Spanish] #104456
As we stated in the Sixth Committee, Mexico decided to dissociate itself from resolution 78/109, entitled “Peremptory norms of general international law (jus cogens)”. In my delegation’s view, the resolution did not demonstrate a balance between the different positions in the room; it was the result of a negotiating environment in which it was impossible to find common ground. Mexico understands that certain issues can be controversial. The case of jus cogens is not the first, and will not be the last. However, the precedent that resolution could set, which would minimize the outcomes of years of hard work by the International Law Commission, is worrisome. From Mexico’s perspective, there can be no selectivity when it comes to the work of the Commission. Every State must be treated equally and given the same consideration, with respect for its independence and its national positions on specific issues. We reiterate that we must act in a unified manner and work to address the demands of the current global context. The delegation of Mexico reaffirms its commitment to the codification and progressive development of international law, and in line with that commitment, will continue to always work towards strengthening the relationship between the Sixth Committee and the International Law Commission.
The Acting President #104457
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 79?
It was so decided.

81.  Expulsion of aliens Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/437)

The Acting President #104458
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise? (resolution 78/110).
The draft resolution was adopted
The Acting President #104459
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 81?
It was so decided.

82.  Report of the Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations and on the Strengthening of the Role of the Organization Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/438)

The Acting President #104460
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Committee in paragraph 10 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise? (resolution 78/111).
The draft resolution was adopted
The Acting President #104461
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 82?
It was so decided.

83.  The rule of law at the national and international levels Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/439)

The Acting President #104462
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Committee in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/112).
The Acting President #104463
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 83?
It was so decided.

84.  The scope and application of the principle of universal jurisdiction Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/440)

The Acting President #104464
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Committee in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/113).
The Acting President #104465
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 84?
It was so decided.

85.  Responsibility of international organizations Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/446)

The Acting President #104466
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Committee in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/114).
The Acting President #104467
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 85?
It was so decided.

86.  Protection of persons in the event of disasters Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/441)

The Acting President #104468
The General Assembly will now consider the report of the Sixth Committee on agenda item 86, entitled “Protection of persons in the event of disasters”. May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to take note of the report of the Committee? It was so decided (decision 78/516).
The Acting President #104469
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 86?
It was so decided.

87.  Strengthening and promoting the international treaty framework Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/442)

The Acting President #104470
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. Before proceeding further, I should like to inform members that action on the draft resolution is postponed to a later date to allow time for the review of its programme budget implications by the Fifth Committee. The Assembly will take action on the draft resolution as soon as the report of the Fifth Committee on its program budget implications is available. The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 87.

109.  Measures to eliminate international terrorism Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/443)

The Acting President #104471
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 9 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Sixth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/115).
The Acting President #104472
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 109?
It was so decided.

120.  Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/444)

The Acting President #104473
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 6 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision, entitled “Provisional programme of work of the Sixth Committee for the seventy-ninth session”. The Sixth Committee adopted the draft decision without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/517).
The Acting President #104474
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 120.

135.  Programme planning Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/445)

The Acting President #104475
May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to take note of the report of the Sixth Committee? It was so decided (decision 78/518).
The Acting President #104476
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 135.

161.  Report of the Committee on Relations with the Host Country Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/447)

The Acting President #104477
The Assembly has before a draft resolution recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. The Sixth Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/116)
The Acting President #104478
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 161?
It was so decided.

162.  Observer status for the Cooperation Council of Turkic-speaking States in the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/448)

The Acting President #104479
The Assembly has before a draft decision recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision. The Sixth Committee adopted the draft decision without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/519).
The Acting President #104480
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 162?
It was so decided.

163.  Observer status for the Eurasian Economic Union in the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/449)

The Acting President #104481
The Assembly has before a draft decision recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision. The Sixth Committee adopted the draft decision without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/520).
The Acting President #104482
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 163?
It was so decided.

164.  Observer status for the Community of Democracies in the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/450)

The Acting President #104483
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision. The Sixth Committee adopted the draft decision without the vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/521).
The Acting President #104484
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 164?
It was so decided.

165.  Observer status for the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands Secretariat in the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/451)

The Acting President #104485
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision. The Sixth Committee adopted the draft decision without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/522).
The Acting President #104486
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 165?
It was so decided.

166.  Observer status for the Global Environment Facility in the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/452)

The Acting President #104487
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision. The Sixth Committee adopted the draft decision without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/523).
The Acting President #104488
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 166?
It was so decided.

167.  Observer status for the International Organization of Employers in the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/453)

The Acting President #104489
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Sixth Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision. The Sixth Committee adopted the draft decision without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/524).
The Acting President #104490
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 167?
It was so decided.

168.  Observer status for the International Trade Union Confederation in the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/454)

The Acting President #104491
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision. The Committee adopted the draft decision without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/525).
The Acting President #104492
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 168?
It was so decided.

169.  Observer status for the Boao Forum for Asia in the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/455)

The Acting President #104493
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision. The Committee adopted the draft decision without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/526).
The Acting President #104494
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 169?
It was so decided.

170.  Observer status for the International Parliamentarians’ Congress in the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/456)

The Acting President #104495
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Committee in paragraph 8 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision. The Committee adopted the draft decision without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 78/527).
The Acting President #104496
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 170?
It was so decided.

171.  Observer status for the Organization of Ibero- American States for Education, Science and Culture in the General Assembly Report of the Sixth Committee (A/78/457)

The Acting President #104497
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Committee in paragraph 7 of its report. We will now take action on the draft resolution. The Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 78/117).
The Acting President #104498
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 171?
It was so decided.
The Acting President on behalf of General Assembly #104499
The General Assembly has thus concluded its consideration of all the reports of the Sixth Committee before it for this meeting. On behalf of the General Assembly, I would like to thank Ambassador Suriya Chindawongse, Permanent Representative of Thailand and Chair of the Sixth Committee, the other members of the Bureau, representatives and the Committee Secretary for a job well done.

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

The Acting President #104500
I now invite the attention of the General Assembly to draft decision A/78/L.23, circulated under sub-item (b) of agenda item 20, entitled “Participation of non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, academic institutions and the private sector in the third United Nations Conference on the Landlocked Developing Countries”. Members will recall that, at its 2nd plenary meeting, on 8 September 2023 (see A/78/PV.2), the General Assembly decided to allocate sub-item (b) of agenda item 20 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 20 directly in plenary meeting and proceed immediately to its consideration? It was so decided (decision 78/504).
The Acting President #104501
The Assembly will take action on draft decision A/78/L.23, entitled “Participation of non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, academic institutions and the private sector in the third United Nations Conference on the Landlocked Developing Countries”. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt draft decision A/78/L.23?
Draft decision A/78/L.23 was adopted (decision 78/528).
The Acting President #104502
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 20.
The meeting rose at 12.05 p.m.