A/78/PV.77 General Assembly

Malaysia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the representative of Brunei Darussalam on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (see A/78/PV.76). In addition, I would like to make some remarks in my national capacity. At the outset, my delegation would like to thank the Secretary-General for his report on the promotion of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace (A/78/591). Malaysia applauds the work of the Alliance of Civilizations, as well as other United Nations entities and initiatives, in pursuit of the true understanding and tolerance that can bridge divides and overcome prejudices through intercultural and interreligious dialogue. It is in full support of those efforts that Malaysia has sponsored draft resolution A/78/L.57, on the follow-up to the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, as well as the various resolutions and United Nations-led initiatives on the issue. As this year marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of the General Assembly’s adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, Malaysia reaffirms that the eight areas of action that it outlines remain relevant and have become increasingly crucial in the current global landscape. Today’s discussion is taking place at a critical juncture and against a backdrop of heightened tensions. Nuclear-war rhetoric is at an all-time high, while various parts of the world are experiencing conflict and unrest. The situation has been further compounded by acts of terror and by hate crimes resulting from racial and religious discrimination and xenophobia. The cultivation of a culture of peace has therefore become more important than ever. Malaysia believes that in our continuing efforts to promote a culture of peace, some of the best ways to instil understanding and acceptance between different groups, faiths and religions are dialogue and the exchange of ideas. We need to share ideas and knowledge and discover common ground that can bring disparate groups closer. We believe firmly that the promotion of a culture of peace should be an inclusive process. Positive interactions among peoples of diverse cultures and values will therefore help us to achieve the aim of preserving and promoting global peace and stability, which are essential prerequisites for the promotion of sustainable economic and social development. As a multicultural, multiracial and multireligious country, Malaysia will continue to take an affirmative and positive approach to peace, in line with the Malaysia Madani concept espoused by our Prime Minister, which emphasizes six core values  — sustainability, compassion, respect, innovation, prosperity and trust. In conclusion, the obstacles that can prevent a culture of peace from taking root are many, but they are not insurmountable. In that regard, Malaysia calls on all to share the collective responsibility to overcome all the challenges in the area with a view to maintaining global peace and stability in pursuit of our shared goal of achieving more inclusive and prosperous societies.

Ecuador expresses its gratitude for the report of the Secretary-General issued under the agenda item “Culture of peace” and entitled “Promotion of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace” (A/78/591). I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate Ecuador’s concern about the persistence and proliferation of violence and conflict in various parts of the world. It is vital to eliminate all forms of discrimination and intolerance and prioritize peace. That must be a positive and dynamic participatory process, one that requires a spirit of mutual understanding and cooperation. Direct dialogue will always be the best tool for preventing and resolving conflicts. It is therefore crucial to remember the timely and central idea in UNESCO’s Constitution, which states that “since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defences of peace must be constructed”. We must revitalize our commitment to confronting the challenges of the “infodemic” or pandemic of disinformation, while keeping in mind the crucial need to have access to free, reliable, factual, multilingual, specific, precise, clear, science-based information, and to find appropriate tools to stop the spread of that destructive virus. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development puts significant emphasis on the promotion of a culture of peace. We need to get back on track to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by designing equitable and supportive strategies that will enable us to build resilient societies that are better prepared for future crises, strategies that should be duly considered at the Summit of the Future in September. I want to emphasize that the concept of a culture of peace is embedded in Ecuador’s norms and legislation. More than that, it is embedded in the spirit of a peaceful people who have seen the threat of the extreme violence of transnational organized crime, which thinks it has the fuel to undermine our democratic institutions with impunity. They will not succeed, because Ecuador is a country that reaffirms its commitment to peace, development and democracy every day. I reiterate our commitment to deepening our efforts to establish a global culture of peace and Ecuador’s commitment to supporting its implementation at the local, national, regional and international levels. In conclusion, I want to recognize the delegation of Bangladesh for its historical leadership on this question, including through the introduction of draft resolution A/78/L.57, which the General Assembly is about to adopt and of which Ecuador is a co-sponsor, all the more so as this year we are marking 25 years since the General Assembly began its consideration of this important issue.

We are gathered here today at a critical moment in human history, when the pursuit of peace and justice is more urgent than ever. As we face the challenges of conflict, inequality, environmental degradation and dwindling respect for the international rules-based order, we must come together to advance a culture of peace and justice that embraces our shared humanity. We must recognize that peace, stability and justice are not destinations but journeys. They require constant effort, dedication and collective action. We must cultivate empathy, understanding and compassion to break down the barriers that divide us. We must prioritize education and cultural exchange to promote mutual understanding and respect. We must learn from one another’s stories, traditions and values to build bridges of understanding. We must address the root causes of conflict and inequality, including poverty, discrimination and political oppression. We must work for economic justice, social equality and political freedom for all. We must harness the power of technology and innovation to promote peace and justice. We must use digital platforms to amplify marginalized voices, mobilize collective action and build inclusive communities. We must protect our planet and ensure a sustainable future for all. We must address climate change, preserve natural resources and promote environmental justice. We must support and empower the local peacebuilders and justice seekers who are working tirelessly to build peaceful and just communities. We must hold leaders accountable for their actions and promote democratic values, human rights and the rule of law. We must cultivate inner peace and mindfulness in our daily lives and recognize that peace begins inside each of us. Timor-Leste has come a long way since its struggle for independence, and we have made significant strides in building a peaceful and harmonious society. We have learned that peace is not just the absence of conflict but a conscious effort to understand and respect each other’s differences. We have learned to embrace our diversity and celebrate our unique cultural heritage to nourish the culture of peace. That is the reason that Timor-Leste also co-sponsored draft resolution A/78/L.57, which we thank Bangladesh for introducing (see A/78/PV.76). Our culture of peace is rooted in our traditional values of hospitality, forgiveness and community. We have a saying in our vernacular language, Tetum, “Neneik maibe bebeik”, which means “slowly yet persistently”, reminding us that peace is a journey and not a destination. We have made significant progress in rebuilding our country, and we are proud of our achievements. But we know that peace is not just about physical reconstruction; it is also about healing the wounds of the past and building trust among our people and with our neighbours. That can be seen through our successful reconciliation processes and the reconciliation with our neighbouring countries. We have been also working towards the strengthening of good relations with the countries of the region to promote regional peace and security. On a long-term basis, we are committed to promoting a culture of peace through education, dialogue and community engagement. We are working to empower our young people, support our vulnerable communities and promote social cohesion. Let us work together along the path of peace, with patience, understanding and compassion. Let us celebrate our differences and find strength in our diversity. In conclusion, advancing a culture of peace and justice requires a collective effort and a commitment to our shared humanity across the globe. Let us work together to build a world in which everyone can thrive, everyone can live in dignity and respect and everyone can enjoy peace and justice.

I would like to thank the President of the General Assembly for convening this debate and allowing Member States to renew their commitment to full and effective implementation of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, which is of particular importance as we commemorate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the adoption of the annual draft resolution under this item, submitted this year as draft resolution A/78/L.57 and introduced by the representative of our brotherly country Bangladesh (see A/78/PV.76). While the whole world is facing multiple crises and conflicts, we stress that the culture of peace represents a vital bridge to strengthen communication more generally among different peoples and cultures. The United Nations spares no effort in preventing and resolving conflicts peacefully, thereby contributing to promoting a culture of peace and joint action thereon. In that regard, I would like to recall what the defenceless Palestinian people are facing in their defence of Gaza, namely, merciless attacks by Israel, which is why the international community must end the war in Gaza, protect civilians, ensure the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza and prevent its people’s displacement. The Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace strengthens the important role played by young people in combating terrorism and extremism, building peace, security and sustainable development and ensuring human rights. UNESCO’s proclamation of 21 February as International Mother Language Day also contributes to the protection and promotion of linguistic and cultural diversity , the preservation of multilingualism and the enrichment of a culture of peace, social harmony and dialogue among civilizations and cultures, while fostering mutual understanding. My country, Saudi Arabia, launched a project for peace that builds cooperation bridges among civilizations and cultures in order to achieve the highest humanitarian goals. It aims to bolster tolerance, understanding and the embrace of diversity and to foster coexistence among peoples. My country has made tremendous efforts to support efforts at the national and international levels to promote cultural communication with peoples and countries. With that in mind, we launched the Peace Project for Cultural Communication, which is part of our national 2030 Agenda. Since it was launched, in 2015, it has undertaken pivotal roles in supporting ongoing efforts in the field of cultural communication and in building and developing national capacities, driven by our strong belief in the importance of expanding the Kingdom’s cultural communication efforts with different communities and peoples, both domestically and internationally. We focus our endeavours on achieving leadership and excellence in supporting those efforts, contributing to the establishment of coexistence, peace and global security, and driving the Kingdom towards new horizons of development and prosperity. In conclusion, the many changes we face in our world compel us to promote the role of the United Nations and strengthen the culture of peace, focusing on non-violence and respect for fundamental human rights and individual freedoms, reflecting many aspects of the various practices, cultures, behaviours and values that nations have acquired throughout their long histories and far-reaching human activities.

Algeria aligns itself with the statement delivered by the representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations (see A/78/PV.76). We would also like to express our appreciation to Bangladesh for the efforts deployed in producing draft resolution A/78/L.57, before us today, of which Algeria is proud to be a co-sponsor. Given the multidimensional challenges that our world is facing, the concept of the culture of peace must be provided with a concrete meaning that goes beyond mere narratives or words. The culture of peace is being questioned and deeply challenged in many places around the globe, thereby requiring our full commitment to translate the content of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace into realities. The two documents that the General Assembly adopted 25 years ago in resolution 53/243 represent the universal reference for laying a solid foundation for a culture of peace. In that regard, we would like to underline the following points. First, nurturing a culture of peace means making an investment in a peaceful future based on the principles of dialogue, tolerance and cooperation, as well as a peaceful future based on respect for international law and human rights principles. Algeria is a strong believer that young people and children — and future generations more generally — must be our priority as we deploy efforts to promote a culture of peace. In that connection, Algeria proudly negotiated and facilitated the adoption of resolution 72/130, which proclaims 16 May as the International Day of Living Together in Peace. The celebration of that day must be taken by all relevant actors of the international community as an opportunity to transcend differences and promote tolerance, dialogue, cooperation and reconciliation. Secondly, our engagement around the issue of a culture of peace should continue to be guided by the provisions stipulated in the Declaration on a Culture of Peace of 1999. Algeria recalls that article 3 of the Declaration on a Culture of Peace clearly mentions that the culture of peace is integrally linked to “[r]ealizing fully the right of all peoples, including those living under colonial or other forms of domination or foreign occupation, to self- determination enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations”. The debate surrounding the follow-up to the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace would be incomplete if we omitted important principles contained in the documents of the Assembly as we are about to celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the adoption of those same two milestone documents. Thirdly, a culture of peace also means clearly and unanimously condemning the horrific aggression being committed against the innocent civilians in Gaza. It means promoting the values and principles of international law and human rights in order to hold the perpetrators of those unspeakable violations accountable. It means ending impunity and bringing the perpetrators to justice. It means that there should be no room for double standards or biased approaches in dealing with the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, in particular in Gaza. It also means that we have to make good use of all the tools we have if we are to stop the destruction and the bloodshed. Let us give meaning to a culture of peace. In conclusion, Algeria remains committed to supporting all positive initiatives aimed at strengthening a culture of peace in the light of the provisions contained in the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace.

We have heard the last speaker in the debate on this item. We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/78/L.57. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

The present oral statement is made in the context of rule 153 of the rules of procedure of the General Assembly. It has also been distributed to Member States. Under the terms of paragraph 20 of draft resolution A/78/L.57, the Assembly would request its President to convene, within existing resources, a day-long high-level forum during its seventy-eighth session to commemorate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace. With regard to paragraph 20 of the draft resolution, references made to paragraph 11 of resolution 69/250 and subsequent resolutions, the most recent of which is resolution 78/245, of 22 December 2023, in which the Assembly invited Member States to include in new legislative mandates adequate information on the modalities for the organization of conferences or meetings, the Secretariat has taken note of the General Assembly’s request to implement the new mandate within existing budgetary resources. The Secretariat wishes to inform the Assembly that its ability to implement the mandate will depend on the availability of adequate cash resources. I should now like to announce that since the submission of draft resolution A/78/L.57, and in addition to the delegations listed in the document, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft resolution: Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Belarus, Belize, the Plurinational State of Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Chad, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Denmark, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Fiji, Finland, the Gambia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Malawi, Malaysia, the Maldives, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, the Philippines, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, the Sudan, Suriname, Sweden, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor- Leste, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Türkiye, Uganda, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Viet Nam, Yemen and the State of Palestine.

I call on the representative of Israel on a point of order.

Paragraph 5 of the annex to resolution 52/250, of 2 July 1998, entitled “Question of Palestine”, determined that Palestine has the right to co-sponsor draft resolutions and decisions on Palestinian and Middle East issues. The subject matter of draft resolution A/78/L.57 clearly does not fall within the parameters set out in the annex to resolution 52/250. I would like to stress the importance we attach to following the rules of procedure of the Organization. The rules of co-sponsorship have been clearly laid out in the rules and regulations governing the Organization. Any decision to change those rules would serve only to undermine this institution.

I might also add, with respect, that the State of Israel is not a co-sponsor of draft resolution A/78/L.57. The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/78/L.57, entitled “Follow-up to the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt the draft resolution?

Before giving the floor to speakers in explanation of position on the resolution just adopted, 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 Israel.

Today we are here to discuss the culture of peace  — what a grand phrase. The resolution that has been adopted (resolution 78/277) talks about preventing violent extremism and recalls resolutions on terrorism. It recognizes a number of big words, referring to “the prevention of conflicts”, “the peaceful settlement of disputes”, “peacekeeping”, “peacebuilding”, “mediation” and so on. It takes note of the United Nations Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech. Yet none of those sayings are translated into action. It has been over 200 days since the 7 October 2023 massacre. Hamas carried out the most heinous and widespread massacre of Jews since the Holocaust. Entire families were wiped from the Earth, and peaceful communities were turned to ash. Israeli women were the victims of systematic rape, and more than 250 hostages were taken by Hamas to Gaza. That was a planned attack, which was the result of years of incitement. Yet almost none of those who chose to take the floor today chose to condemn the horrific acts of Hamas. No one chose to address the ongoing incitement on Palestinian official media channels, or the indoctrination in their schools and educational materials. There was only one-sided criticism of the right of my country to protect itself and its citizens. Israel has the right to self-defence, as well as the basic duty to protect its citizens from a terrorist organization calling for its annihilation. Israel has a firm commitment to international law, which is not dependent on the proceedings at the International Court of Justice. Some Member States in the Hall today, instead of promoting a culture of peace, are doing the opposite in the attempt to limit and even nullify Israel’s right to self-defence and the attempts to release the hostages. No one condemned the rise in antisemitism across the world. The waves of protests and demonstrations in support of Hamas, which embody a discourse of hatred and antisemitism, must be condemned. Is that not worth mentioning, when we are talking under an agenda item that claims its goal is to combat hate speech, intolerance and xenophobia? Does that not include combating antisemitism? When certain Member States in the Hall continue to dance to the tune of a terror organization and repeat false accusations, that does not help to promote a culture of peace. The deradicalization of Palestinian society and stopping the culture of hate is vital for achieving a culture of peace. I would like to conclude by calling for the immediate release of all hostages held in Gaza: 133 people, including 19 men, two children and 10 persons over the age of 75. I ask everyone to join our call for their release and show real action for the implementation of the culture of peace.

We have heard the only speaker in explanation of position. The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 14.

I now give the floor to the representative of Tajikistan to introduce draft resolution A/78/L.60.

On behalf of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and my own country, Tajikistan, I have the honour to introduce draft resolution A/78/L.60, by which the General Assembly would proclaim 24 May as the International Day of Markhor, to be commemorated every year. The markhor is an iconic and ecologically significant species found across the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia, including Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. It was categorized as “near-threatened” in 2014, it is on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species and it has been included in appendix 1 to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora since 1992. Preserving the markhor and its natural habitat is not only an ecological necessity but a substantial opportunity for enhancing the region’s economy, advancing conservation endeavours and stimulating sustainable tourism and economic development. It is crucial to emphasize that conservation efforts targeting the markhor will not only safeguard our ecosystem but also yield economic benefits. In highlighting the ecological significance of the markhor, it is imperative to recognize its role as a valuable species whose existence contributes significantly to the local economy and various conservation initiatives. Furthermore, it is essential to acknowledge the importance of national and regional initiatives aimed at fostering cooperation among range States and promoting transboundary approaches and establishing mechanisms at the regional level to support the conservation of the markhor. Such collaborative efforts will be instrumental in ensuring the long-term preservation of an iconic species and its habitat. To that end, Tajikistan will host the ninth World Conference on Mountain Ungulates, to be held in Dushanbe from 12 to 15 October, and we invite everyone to participate in it. We believe that the proclamation of 24 May as the International Day of Markhor will mark a significant milestone in our efforts to conserve the markhor, including the establishment of breeding programmes and the development of regional strategies and national action plans aimed at protecting the species throughout its range. In conclusion, on behalf of the members of the core group, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all delegations for their constructive and valuable proposals and the flexibility they demonstrated during the informal negotiations. We look forward to working with everyone and with all United Nations agencies, in particular the United Nations Environment Programme, as well as all relevant stakeholders, to mark the day in a meaningful way. I would also like to thank all the Member States that have co-sponsored draft resolution A/78/L.60 and invite others to join the initiative today. It would be an honour to be able to count on the unanimous support of the General Assembly to ensure that the draft resolution is adopted by consensus.

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/78/L.60. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

I should like to announce that since the submission of draft resolution A/78/L.60, and in addition to the delegations listed in the document, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft resolution: Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cuba, Egypt, Germany, Indonesia, Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Portugal, Senegal and Singapore.

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/78/L.60, entitled “International Day of the Markhor”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/78/L.60?

The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 13.

We shall now proceed to consider draft decision A/78/L.61, entitled “Participation of non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, academic institutions and the private sector in the third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries”. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt draft decision A/78/L.61?

The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 20.

I now invite the attention of the General Assembly to draft resolution A/78/L.59, submitted under sub-item (a) of agenda item 23, entitled “Agriculture development, food security and nutrition”. Members will recall that the General Assembly concluded its consideration of sub-item (a) of agenda item 23 at its 49th plenary meeting, on 19 December 2023. In order for the Assembly to take action on the draft resolution, it will be necessary to reopen consideration of sub-item (a) of agenda item 23. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to reopen consideration of sub-item (a) of agenda item 23?

Members will recall that, at its 2nd plenary meeting, on 8 September 2023, the General Assembly decided to allocate sub-item (a) of agenda item 23 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 (a) of agenda item 23 directly in plenary meeting and proceed immediately to its consideration? It was so decided (decision 78/504 B).

I now give the floor to the representative of the United States to introduce draft resolution A/78/L.59.

My name is Xochitl Torres Small, and I am the Deputy Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture. I am honoured to be here today to introduce draft resolution A/78/L.59, which declares 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer. The United States thanks the Member States that have joined us in sponsoring the draft resolution. We also thank the thousands of people throughout the agricultural supply chain, and their advocates who work tirelessly to advance women’s contributions and leadership in agriculture. We recognize and honour their work today. I would also like to thank the three Rome-based United Nations agencies, and in particular the Food and Agriculture Organization, for all of its support and work on the draft resolution. We look forward to continuing to partner with them on this exciting initiative through 2026 and beyond. Most importantly, I thank the women farmers at the heart of the draft resolution, whose work, too often unseen and minimalized owing to deeply rooted gender inequality, has nourished generations and enriched communities across the globe. Those of us who work in agriculture recognize that women farmers are the backbone of agriculture globally. Yet even though women play a crucial role in global food security, they are more likely to face food insecurity. And it does not stop there. When women face food insecurity, that leads to malnutrition, undermines their health and perpetuates unjust cycles of poverty, food insecurity and poor health outcomes. That situation has been exacerbated by the increase in global shocks and stressors, including the coronavirus disease pandemic, conflicts and climate change, which have disproportionately affected women and girls across agrifood systems. We can and must do better to support women in agriculture and address the barriers and discrimination that they face. It is therefore our belief that by declaring 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, the global community can raise awareness of the essential role of women in agriculture and the barriers they have to face and overcome in order to feed future generations. It is our hope that this year can catalyse collaboration to dismantle those barriers and support the achievement of gender equality and the entire 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By adopting this draft resolution, the United Nations will acknowledge the crucial role of women in agriculture, bring attention to the barriers they continue to face across agrifood systems and raise awareness of the initiatives, policies and actions that will be taken to address those issues and promote gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in all their diversity. The draft resolution highlights the critical importance of women’s improved access to, ownership of and control over resources, inputs and services, including land, training and capacity-building, credit and technology. It recognizes the benefits that we all reap when women and girls have equal access to education and farm activities that build resilience to the shocks and stressors I have mentioned. It underscores that women’s leadership is essential to global food security and to promoting gender equality in agriculture. The draft resolution acknowledges the central role that women continue to play in accelerating the transition to a more sustainable agrifood system. Our hope is that governments, civil society, the non-profit sector and private industry worldwide will come together around the International Year of the Woman Farmer in support of policies, programmes, research and activities that promote gender equality and the empowerment of women farmers. By working together, we can empower women farmers as leaders in global efforts to build more productive, resilient food systems, and thereby increase their incomes and contribute significantly to rural economic prosperity, sustainability and food security. I thank the Assembly for its consideration of the draft resolution proposing 2026 as the International Year of the Women Farmer, as we work to promote gender equality and the empowerment of all women farmers around the world, along with ensuring that agriculture continues to nourish our planet for generations to come. I know that this advance for women farmers and gender equality will lead to a brighter future for us all.

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/78/L.59. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

I should like to announce that since the submission of draft resolution A/78/L.59 and in addition to the delegations listed in the document, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft resolution: Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belgium, the Plurinational State of Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Eritrea, Estonia, Eswatini, Fiji, Finland, Gabon, the Gambia, Georgia, Greece, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Latvia, Lesotho, Lebanon, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Montenegro, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Moldova, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Sweden, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the United Republic of Tanzania, Uzbekistan, Yemen and Zambia.

The Assembly will now proceed to take a decision on draft resolution A/78/L.59, entitled “International Year of the Woman Farmer, 2026”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/78/L.59?

May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (a) of agenda item 23?

I now give the floor to the representative of South Africa to introduce draft resolution A/78/L.62.

I have the privilege to introduce draft resolution A/78/L.62, entitled “Global health and foreign policy: addressing global health challenges in the foreign policy space”, on behalf of the core group of the Foreign Policy and Global Health Initiative, which consists of the following countries: Brazil, France, Indonesia, Norway, Senegal, Thailand and my own country, South Africa. We would like to extend our profound appreciation to all delegations for the time invested and their constructive participation since the beginning of the discussions on the draft resolution. We also extend our appreciation to the World Health Organization (WHO) for the expertise it provided throughout the negotiations process. The text was first circulated last December, and we adopted an exhaustive approach that allowed all delegations an opportunity to contribute positively to the discussions in a fair and transparent manner. The Foreign Policy and Global Health core group was launched in 2006 by its countries’ Foreign Ministers, who had previously served as Health Ministers of their respective countries. They identified the nexus between health and foreign policy and recognized the cross-border nature of health threats and the need for partnerships, cooperation and solidarity at all levels  — bilaterally, regionally and internationally — in mitigating our common challenges in the face of global health challenges and emergencies. The Foreign Ministers who spearheaded the initiative adopted in 2007 the Oslo ministerial declaration entitled “Global Health  — A pressing foreign policy issue of our time”, which outlined 10 points that are still very relevant today to raising the issue of health as a priority in foreign policy. The Oslo declaration framed the context in which the issue of global health and foreign policy was included in the agenda of the General Assembly. We all observed during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic  — one of the greatest health emergencies and challenges of our time  — that no single country can overcome a global pandemic on its own. Therefore, we should renew our efforts and commitments to sustaining political momentum and ensuring concerted action towards strengthening health systems that are resilient to any health challenges that we may encounter. Draft resolution A/78/L.62 aims to address a number of concerns pertaining to international cooperation for strengthening global health. There is a recognition that securing the supply of heath products and access to technologies for all countries is in the interests of preserving humankind. It is a matter of equitable access to, and a fairer distribution of, the channels for health products and technologies, which are currently dependent on manufacturing facilities concentrated in one part of the world. The draft resolution also emphasizes the importance and benefits of equitable access to technologies and the value of providing predictable, sustainable and sufficient development finance to developing countries from all sources so as to support the creation of capacity. One example cited in the draft resolution is the collaboration on technology transfer hubs for mRNA vaccines and the establishment of the Pandemic Fund, along with other global funding initiatives aimed at addressing inequalities in health financing. The draft resolution recognizes the need for women, girls, the marginalized and those in vulnerable situations and humanitarian settings to access healthcare, including sexual and reproductive healthcare, and to enjoy reproductive rights. It also commits to mainstreaming a gender perspective in all policies and programmes, including in budgetary responses. It further reiterates the need to step up our prevention efforts  — an essential condition for avoiding the emergence of new pandemics. To that end, it recommends implementing and reinforcing the One Health approach, which should follow the guidelines of the One Health quadripartite organizations. If we want to be collectively stronger in the face of future health emergencies, we need to ensure that our health workers are prepared. Draft resolution A/78/L.62 stresses the importance of stepping up training efforts. The creation of the WHO Academy in 2024 will be a key element in that process. The draft resolution calls for timely, equitable and unhindered access to safe, affordable, effective and quality medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics and other health products, especially during health emergencies. A similar call has been made by humanitarian missions, because unhindered access is the basis for saving lives. The COVID-19 pandemic taught us many lessons, in particular that we need to be prepared for future pandemics and ensure that we advance towards universal health coverage. That can be achieved if we can address the persisting inequalities both within and among States. That is the reason that this draft resolution also requests the President of the General Assembly to convene, in 2025, a one-day high-level interactive dialogue on addressing the social, economic and environmental determinants of health. All those efforts will further contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. This draft resolution deserves to be implemented fully, and we call on all Member States to fully support its adoption by consensus. We believe that it is a very balanced text that fully complements the three political declarations that were adopted last year. At its heart is the fundamental element needed for the full realization and enjoyment of the right of everyone to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, and the corresponding objectives of universal health coverage and health for all, without discrimination, with special attention to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

I now give the floor to the representative of Belgium to introduce draft amendment A/78/L.64.

This draft amendment (A/78/L.64) will come as no surprise, especially to those involved in discussions of draft resolution A/78/L.62. Claims that the European Union (EU) has acted in anything but good faith and full transparency are utterly false. The EU has explained consistently, repeatedly and in painstaking detail why this formulation is not acceptable, namely, because it is being used to untransparently imply that sanctions and intellectual property rights hinder access to safe, affordable, effective and quality medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics and other health products and technologies. The EU has voted in favour of that language consistently in the General Assembly in the past. We spared no effort or solution. We asked to delete that unclear wording, but also offered alternative formulations, including by enumerating clearly in the text what issues do or can potentially hinder access to medical countermeasures. Regrettably, our proposals were not accepted, or even entertained or discussed. To be clear, the word “unhindered” is not taboo, but we have repeatedly asked for clarification of what the term “unhindered” refers to, and we cannot accept the hiding of negative or false narratives about sanctions, intellectual property rights and possibly other unnamed issues behind opaque formulations that are then used against us in other discussions. We stress that forcing such established red lines is not the way to consensus. As a last resort, the EU therefore submitted this draft amendment and asks that that term be deleted. If the draft amendment is rejected, the EU will dissociate itself from the term. We will, in any event, continue to explain our position and propose more transparent formulations in other texts.

I now give the floor to the representative of Switzerland to introduce draft amendment A/78/L.65

Switzerland would like to provide a brief rationale for the submission of the draft amendment to the twenty- ninth preambular paragraph (A/78/L.65) of draft resolution A/78/L.62. Switzerland engaged actively and constructively throughout the negotiations and joined the consensus on large parts of the text. We are, however, unfortunately not in a position to join the consensus on the twenty- ninth preambular paragraph. In our view, that paragraph seriously undermines the protection of intellectual property rights by omitting the caveats on the transfer of technology and know-how. We regret that our concerns have not been taken into consideration despite the fact that we raised them continuously. Switzerland’s position on the protection of intellectual property rights is well known and long- standing. Intellectual property plays a critical role in incentivizing the development of new, improved and life-saving medicines that address the health challenges of today and tomorrow. We oppose the language used here in New York that attempts to weaken the rights and obligations that are carefully negotiated under the World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights. In our view, that will negatively affect countries’ abilities to incentivize the development of and access to new drugs. With those concerns in view, Switzerland proposes to include the caveats “on voluntary and mutually agreed terms” in the twenty-ninth preambular paragraph. We invite Member States to support the proposed draft amendment.

I now give the floor to the representative of Ukraine to introduce draft amendment A/78/L.66.

The immense significance of health and healthcare on both the personal and global levels could hardly be challenged by anyone. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in particular has provided us with a critical lesson about the imperative to unite efforts in order to safeguard public health and address global health challenges. For that reason, Ukraine commends the initiative of elaborating draft resolution A/78/L.66 and would like to see this draft resolution make a solid contribution to global health and foreign policy. To that end, it is our firm belief that the draft resolution should be of a comprehensive nature and encompass all aspects that may affect our efforts in this domain. The impact of armed conflict on healthcare systems is one of those aspects, and it would be a mistake to overlook it. As a country defending itself in the war of attrition waged by the Russian Federation, Ukraine felt that devastating impact almost immediately, as have all other countries that are suffering as a result of the armed conflicts on their territories. The implications for healthcare are similar in all situations of conflict, and they must be recognized, addressed and resolved by the international community. The delivery of essential healthcare services is disrupted, and access to those services is complicated. Healthcare facilities are being damaged or destroyed. The number of medical professionals decreases as a result of casualties, displacement and the disruption of medical education. The spread of infectious disease in conflict-affected areas is an immediate outcome of an armed conflict. Humanitarian access to affected populations, including healthcare assistance, is restricted in those territories. We cannot ignore the fact that armed conflicts pose significant challenges for healthcare systems in third countries as well. Millions of refugees who are fleeing abroad for safety significantly overburden the healthcare systems of the host countries. The impact of armed conflicts on healthcare can have long-lasting effects on the health and well-being of populations, including increased mortality rates, disability and decreased life expectancy. Rebuilding healthcare infrastructure and restoring healthcare services can be a lengthy and challenging process after conflicts end. In view of the foregoing, my delegation considers that the absence of a relevant provision on the impact of armed conflicts on health in the draft resolution would reduce its relevance and credibility. To close that gap, Ukraine submitted draft amendment A/78/L.66 to draft resolution A/78/L.62. The draft amendment, which consists of the thirtieth preambular paragraph (bis), reflects that important nexus between armed conflict and health. By supporting this proposal, the General Assembly will recognize that healthcare is among the most adversely affected areas in any situation of conflict. There are dozens of situations of that kind throughout the globe, and each one requires our attention and coordinated response. By supporting this proposal, the General Assembly will also pay tribute to the courage and dedication of all the professionals and volunteers who keep healthcare systems functioning and help affected populations in situations of armed conflict. In that regard, I urge representatives to make the right choice and support the amendment.

We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/78/L.62 and draft amendments A/78/L.64, A/78/L.65 and A/78/L.66. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.

I should like to announce that since the submission of draft resolution A/78/L.62, and in addition to the delegations listed in the document, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft resolution: Angola, Cambodia, Chad, Djibouti, El Salvador, Eswatini, Mali, the Philippines, Rwanda, Timor-Leste, Tunisia, Uganda and Viet Nam. Since the submission of draft amendment A/78/L.64, and in addition to the delegations listed in the document, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft amendment: Israel, Japan, North Macedonia, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America. Since the submission of the draft amendment A/78/L.65, and in addition to the delegations listed in the document, the following countries have also become sponsors of the draft amendment: Israel, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America.

Delegations wishing to make a statement in explanation of vote before the voting on any proposal under this item are invited to do so now in one intervention. After action on all of them, there will be an opportunity for explanations of vote after the voting on any or all of them. Before giving the floor for explanations of vote before the voting, I would like to remind delegations that explanations of vote are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats.

I thank you for your explanation, Mr. President. We would like to know if a vote has been requested on any of the amendments, because that could have a bearing on the content of delegations’ statements. Normally, before explanations of vote, delegations know how the amendments, which of course form part of the adoption process, are going to be adopted. I would be grateful for further information in that regard.

In the matter raised by the representative of Cuba, a recorded vote has been requested on draft amendment A/78/L.64. A recorded vote has also been requested for draft amendment A/78/L.65. I now give the floor to the representative of Cuba, who wishes to speak in explanation of vote before the voting.

For Cuba, the promotion and protection of the right to health and the access of all people to quality health services have been a priority. We are fully committed to the efforts of the United Nations system under the leadership of the World Health Organization to make collective progress in solving the health challenges facing the international community. The resources, technologies and knowledge exist to overcome the vast majority of the challenges we face in the area. However, since profit is prioritized over solidarity, millions of people — most of them in the South — die of otherwise treatable diseases. Draft resolution A/78/L.62, which we ae about to adopt, is a step in the right direction and therefore enjoys our full support. We thank South Africa and its lead sponsors for their commitment to the issue and for their dedicated efforts to foster an inclusive, thorough, thoughtful and very serious negotiation process. We note the efforts of South Africa and other members of the group of lead sponsors to reach a consensus. Unfortunately, draft amendments A/78/L.64 and A/78/L.65 have been submitted based on an exclusionary logic. The language they seek to modify is of particular importance for developing countries, as it calls for international cooperation, collaboration and solidarity. Those who yesterday achieved development partly by exploiting resources in colonial times and continue to benefit from the exclusive and unjust world order today seek to prevent the developing world from gaining equal access to the medical supplies, resources, technologies and knowledge necessary to provide our peoples with better health services and care. The coronavirus disease pandemic clearly demonstrated the current unjust international order. The lack of access of developing countries to resources, knowledge and technologies is typical of that order, which is unequal by nature and must be urgently replaced by a new one in which solidarity and international cooperation are prioritized. Draft amendments A/78/L.64 and A/78/L.65 seek to perpetuate the privilege of some and the exclusion of the majority. Given the submission of those draft amendments, it is hard to believe in the so-called commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the promise to leave no one behind, or any genuine interest in building a better future for all and a more just United Nations, including through the Pact for the Future, which is currently under negotiation. What future awaits developing countries if rich countries seek to perpetuate today’s inequities? The draft amendments correspond to the same exclusionary logic of those that do not recognize the right to development and those that justify the imposition of unilateral coercive measures against the South, which contravene the Charter of the United Nations and have a direct and extremely negative impact on human rights, in particular on health. For those reasons, my delegation will vote against draft amendments A/78/L.64 and A/78/L.65, and we call on other delegations to do the same. We must strengthen the capacity of the United Nations and of our countries to meet the health needs of our peoples and be in a better position to face current and future diseases. It is imperative to foster the spirit of international cooperation and solidarity in that area. Cuba’s modest contribution can always be counted on in that regard.

We have heard the only speaker in explanation of vote before the voting. Before we proceed to take a decision on draft resolution A/78/L.62, in accordance with rule 90 of the rules of procedure, the Assembly shall first take a decision on draft amendments A/78/L.64, A/78/L.65 and A/78/L.66, one by one. The Assembly will now take a decision on draft amendment A/78/L.64. A recorded voted has been requested.

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft amendment A/78/L.65. A recorded voted has been requested.

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft amendment A/78/L.66. In the absence of a request for a recorded vote on the draft amendment, may I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft amendment A/78/L.66?

We shall now proceed to take action on draft resolution A/78/L.62, as amended. I give the floor to the representative of the United States on a point of order.

It is a procedural request. As a sponsor of the prior two amendments that were not adopted, we would like to request votes on the twenty-ninth preambular paragraph and operative paragraph 22 before we take action on draft resolution A/78/L.62.

To be clear, would you please tell us if the request is for a single vote on both the twenty-ninth preambular paragraph and operative paragraph 22?

No, the request is for two different votes, one on each paragraph.

I shall now put to the vote the twenty-ninth preambular paragraph of draft resolution A/78/L.62, as amended.

I shall now put to the vote operative paragraph 22 of draft resolution A/78/L.62, as amended.

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/78/L.62, entitled “Global Health and Foreign Policy: Addressing global health challenges in the foreign policy space”, as amended. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt the draft resolution, as amended?

Before giving the floor to those representatives who wish to speak in explanation of vote or position on the resolution just adopted, may I remind delegations that explanations are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats.

The Islamic Republic of Iran is honoured to join the consensus on resolution 78/280, and I would like to extend my appreciation to its facilitators for their unwavering dedication and efforts during the negotiations. As we look at global health as a global shared responsibility, we emphatically acknowledge that foreign policy decisions can substantially affect global health outcomes with the potential to either positively or negatively impact them. Despite the rhetoric of solidarity and cooperation in terms of global health, the reality on the ground paints a different picture. Development partners have all but failed to meet their commitments to global health, based on the principle of common yet differentiated responsibility, in order to address the disparities that plague our world. In that context, developing countries are disproportionately affected by global health challenges due to a lack of adequate access to essential medicines, inadequate healthcare infrastructure and limited financial and technical resources. Many countries are deeply concerned about the detrimental impacts of unilateral coercive measures on global health. Such measures, including economic, trade and technical barriers, broadly hinder access to essential medicines and advanced technologies, disrupt global supply chains and exacerbate shortages and scarcities. They also impede humanitarian aid, undermine international collaboration and jeopardize worldwide health and well-being. Regrettably, those critical issues have not been appropriately reflected in the final text of the resolution. In conclusion, I would like to clarify that my delegation reserves the right to interpret the terms, concepts and provisions contained in the resolution consistent with its national health policies and development priorities, in line with our national sovereignty. My delegation also would like to disassociate itself from a number of controversial and non-consensual terms, including but not limited to “gender perspective”, “marginalized groups”, “sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights” and “family planning”.

I deliver this statement on behalf of the European Union and its member States, as well as Georgia, Israel, Japan, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and my own country, the United States. We are deeply disappointed in the process that led to the text of resolution 78/280 as adopted. Not only was there a lack of transparency in the negotiations and a lack of serious consideration of our red lines but there was also a last-minute change to the long-standing agreed language on access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights, in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development and the outcome documents of the review conferences thereto, with no explanation and no indication having been provided that it was a red line for delegations. The language that has been included in the resolution for more than five years was not objected to by delegations and remained in the text consistently until the draft resolution was placed under silence. That procedural move is not acceptable to our delegations. We cannot be weakening important language on such a critical topic, especially as we celebrated earlier this week the thirtieth anniversary of the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development, at a time when gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls is under threat around the world. We urge the core group to restore that critical paragraph for future reiterations of the resolution.

With respect to India’s vote on the amendments to resolution 78/280 (A/78/L.64, A/78/L.65 and A/78/L.66), India abstained in the voting for strictly procedural reasons. India, like some other delegations, was not involved in the negotiations on the resolution, which is of a very substantive nature and therefore requires careful consideration and consultations with stakeholders within our countries. My delegation learned of those negotiations at a very late stage, when all negotiations had already been concluded. We did not have any opportunity to consult among ourselves and express our views. At that late stage, there was simply not enough time for my delegation or capital to analyse a text as lengthy and substantive as this one in consultation with all the relevant stakeholders. Furthermore, the resolution includes several issues that are currently still being discussed and negotiated in Geneva in the context of the proposed pandemic treaty. My delegation wishes to refrain from pre-empting the outcomes of the ongoing processes in Geneva. For those reasons, India decided to abstain in the voting on the amendments. With respect to India’s position on resolution 78/280 as a whole, as explained earlier, India has procedural concerns about the resolution. We are concerned that negotiations on such a critical issue were conducted without major delegations such as India being included. Global health challenges in foreign policy are a high priority for India and require detailed consultations with relevant stakeholders on the Indian side. However, we were not accorded the opportunity to carry out those consultations or invited to submit our views on the content of the resolution. While India does not oppose the resolution as a whole and would have wished to make constructive contributions thereto, we are dismayed at the manner in which it was negotiated. My delegation therefore reserves the right to negotiate the issues contained in the resolution during the negotiations in Geneva according to our national interests.

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member States. The candidate countries Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Bosnia and Herzegovina and the potential candidate country Georgia, as well as Monaco and the United States, align themselves with this explanation of position. We would like to begin by warmly thanking South Africa for its able facilitation and gracious leadership of the process. We also thank the other members of the core group — Brazil, France, Indonesia, Norway, Senegal and Thailand  — for their great efforts and engagement to reach agreement on resolution 78/280. It has been more than two years since we adopted the previous resolution (resolution 76/267). The world was only just starting to emerge from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Russia had just begun its unprovoked aggression against Ukraine. Since then, we have seen many positive developments in the global health space. After three terrible years, the consequences of which the world still struggles with, the COVID-19 pandemic was declared ended. Last year the United Nations membership came together at the Heads of State and Government level to give political priority to health issues and adopt political declarations on the fight against tuberculosis, advancing universal health coverage and the first- ever pandemic prevention, preparedness and response. In Geneva, work was launched towards making the world a safer place by negotiating binding provisions in a pandemic agreement and revising the international health regulations. We have also taken great strides forward on global solidarity and support for health and health systems. The EU has mobilized a total of more than €53.7 billion to help partner countries cope with the COVID-19 health emergency, including by providing almost €200 million in medical and personal protective equipment, donating half a billion vaccines and exporting another 3.1 billion vaccines. The EU has also provided €1.7 billion in research and development investment into COVID-19 vaccines, 20 per cent of the global total of that investment. The EU has already pledged €735 million to the new pandemic fund. The first call for proposals was a resounding success and further calls are under preparation. Beyond addressing health emergencies, Team Europe has stepped up contributions to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, with the EU and its member States pledging €715 million last year, accounting for almost half of all contributions pledged to the Fund in that year. The EU has also invested €8.2 billion to support international collaboration on health research and innovation, including more than €140 million in 2024 alone to accelerate vaccine research, clinical trials and the development of effective treatments in vulnerable countries. In 2022, the EU also adopted an ambitious new global health strategy, and we have doubled down on supporting our partners in strengthening universal health coverage and their health systems. Through the Global Gateway and Team Europe initiative on manufacturing and access to vaccines, medicines and health technologies, with an initial backing of €1.3 billion, we have supported regional and local manufacturing and equitable access to quality, safe, effective and affordable health products, in line with target 3.8 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa and elsewhere. The first mRNA facility opened in Rwanda in late 2023. Despite positive progress and concerted efforts, dire and daunting challenges remain in achieving SDG 3, especially in Africa, the least developed countries and in fragile and conflict-ridden countries. Looking ahead, achieving universal health coverage remains our primary goal, building resilient and equitable health systems able to provide essential public health functions and health services, including during health emergencies, all the while prioritizing the needs of the most marginalized and vulnerable, those left furthest behind. This spring, we will start work towards a high- level meeting on antimicrobial resistance to reinforce the global commitment to combating the growing global crisis and the health threats of antimicrobial resistance. Addressing the challenges of human, animal and ecosystem health using the One Health approach is essential, including in tackling the root causes of pandemics. We welcome the fact that resolution 78/280 calls on all States to implement and reinforce the One Health approach, taking into account the guidelines of the quadripartite organizations. We hope that will inspire all States to incorporate such ambitious measures relating to prevention into their domestic policies as well as in international agreements. While global health is a high priority for the EU and its member States, the process has not been without its hiccups. The EU submitted a draft amendment (A/78/L.64) deleting the words “unhindered access” from paragraph 22 of the draft resolution. That should come as no surprise, as it was explained in the presentation of the amendments. We continue to dissociate ourselves from paragraph 22, and for the same reasons we dissociate ourselves from the term “universal” in the resolution’s thirty-sixth preambular paragraph. We also continue to dissociate ourselves from the uncaveated references to technology transfer in the twenty-ninth preambular paragraph and operative paragraph 6. The United Nations does not condone the forced or illegal transfer of technology, in the interests of maintaining the right balance between access and innovation. The EU position therefore continues to be that we should be able to agree that technology transfer has to be voluntary and on terms mutually agreed on by the parties transferring and receiving the technologies. While large and comparatively strong countries can fend for themselves in that regard, it is in the particular interests of developing countries and countries in special situations and with new or emerging innovation ecosystems to have the United Nations underlining the principles of voluntary and mutually agreed terms. We do not agree with the wording used in those paragraphs and will continue to insist on the appropriate terminology. While we showed flexibility in the interests of reaching consensus on the forty-seventh preambular paragraph and operative paragraphs 4,7 and 31, the EU position in future and other contexts, including the ongoing work by the intergovernmental negotiating body in Geneva, will continue to refer explicitly to the principle that technology transfers shall be voluntary and on mutually agreed terms. The EU has also repeatedly called for and supported language to reflect the devastation that war and armed conflict cause to health and health systems across the world. In that context, we welcome the inclusion of the draft amendment A/78/L.66, put forward by Ukraine. We also align ourselves with the statement made by the representative of the United States and express our general dissatisfaction with the lack of ambitious language on gender equality in the text. Finally, the EU is fully and unreservedly committed to the overarching objective of the resolution, which is to enhance global cooperation on health, and to achieving consensus on the text, despite the concerns I have raised. We will continue to work together with all members in bilateral, regional and multilateral forums in the World Health Organization and at the United Nations on both the acute and long-term challenges to global health. In the short term, we call for the membership to prioritize and reinforce efforts to conclude the negotiations on the pandemic agreement as soon as possible. We also look forward to engaging on the political declaration on antimicrobial resistance, with a view to achieving an ambitious outcome, and on a global agenda for cooperation on health in the United Nations in the years to come.

The United Kingdom would like to begin by thanking South Africa for its able facilitation in this process, as well as the core group of the Foreign Policy and Global Health Initiative — Brazil, France, Indonesia, Norway, Senegal and Thailand  — for putting forward this important resolution (resolution 78/280) and for their work on it. The United Kingdom is committed to pursuing ambitious global health outcomes in support of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and in addressing global health challenges in the foreign policy space. We therefore welcome this timely opportunity to discuss those issues and are grateful to all Member States for their active engagement in the process. The resolution we have just adopted rightly acknowledges the importance of investments in health systems and universal health coverage for equitable and effective pandemic prevention, preparedness and response; the vital role that primary healthcare plays as a cost-effective and equitable route to achieving universal health coverage; the need to respond to the adverse impact of climate change on health and to strengthen health systems and aid adaptation; and the recognition of antimicrobial resistance as a pressing global risk and the need to reinforce global commitments to combating that growing global crisis and health threat through a One Health approach. In that regard, we look forward to further discussion at the high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance in September. The United Kingdom is committed to those objectives and is already making great progress with its global partners to address those global health issues. However, my delegation regrets that a divergence of views on several issues and the process of the negotiations prevented us from reaching complete consensus on the resolution. In particular, the United Kingdom wishes to highlight the following. Regarding paragraph 22, the United Kingdom has consistently raised its concerns about the inclusion of the phrase “unhindered access” throughout negotiations and in other international forums. The United Kingdom has long been a supporter of better and more affordable access to medicines in low- and middle-income countries, including through United Kingdom funding of organizations, such as Unitaid, the Access to Medicine Foundation and the Global Fund, among others, and we will continue to do so. However, for the reasons already noted throughout the negotiation process, the United Kingdom voted against paragraph 22 and would like to dissociate itself from it. With respect to the twenty-ninth and forty-seventh preambular paragraphs and paragraphs 4, 6, 7 and 31, we maintain that the inclusion of “on voluntary and mutually agreed terms” is essential when referring to technology and knowledge transfer. It is imperative that such transfers be on voluntary and mutually agreed terms in order to maximize the chances of successful and long-lasting technology transfer taking place as set out in international agreements and reducing the possibility of unequal or unfavourable terms, so that they are mutually beneficial to all parties, including those from low- and middle-income countries. We are particularly concerned about the omission of the reference to “voluntary and mutually agreed terms” in the twenty-ninth preambular paragraph and, for that reason, we voted against that paragraph and would like to dissociate ourselves from it. On sexual and reproductive health and rights, we fully align ourselves with the statement made by the delegation of the United States. However, the United Kingdom is fully committed to the overarching objective of the resolution and, despite those concerns, joins consensus on the text. Once again, my delegation would like to thank the Foreign Policy and Global Health core group for its efforts in keeping political attention on our important global health agenda, as an integral part of our foreign and development policy.

We would like to thank the delegation of South Africa for coordinating the negotiation process on resolution 78/280, on the close relationship between global health and foreign policy, which is very important to our delegation. We commend its work, and we join with the consensus. We are in favour of keeping the focus of this document on the topic of healthcare without unduly shifting the emphasis to related issues, including human rights issues, for which the United Nations has specially designated forums. Healthcare issues should not be politicized to serve the interests of individual countries, which would jeopardize the well-being of the world’s population. For us, it is much more important to resolve issues to ensure the economic efficiency, accessibility and the affordability of medical care for ordinary citizens. Regarding the amendments put forward by Ukraine and the reference to healthcare challenges in situations of armed conflict, in particular in the occupied territories, we support those delegations that see that the thrust of that paragraph should be focused on those suffering in Gaza. We do not believe that paragraph to be anti-Russian, in particular given the fact that referendums have been held in Crimea and Donbas, and their so-called occupied status is mentioned only by those delegations that are afraid to accept the new reality. Nevertheless, the resolution on global health and foreign policy contains language that is extremely problematic for us. For that reason, we would like it to be recorded in the official record of the meeting that Russia dissociates itself from the consensus on the twenty-ninth and forty-ninth preambular paragraphs on messenger RNA vaccines. Today official conclusions continue to arrive stating that mRNA vaccines can lead to the development of neurological, circulatory and cardiovascular complications. And that is to be expected, since there are still not enough studies on their use to establish a credible link between mRNA vaccines and the negative health consequences on the health of vaccinated patients. The same applies to the paragraphs related to the Pandemic Fund, namely, the thirty-ninth preambular paragraph and paragraph 12. In our opinion, the General Assembly is acting prematurely by welcoming such an opaque structure. We are convinced that such assessments, let alone any decisions, should be made at the World Health Assembly, which will discuss the pandemic response architecture and in particular the pandemic instrument in May. We are also forced to dissociate ourselves from the resolution’s fifteenth, twentieth and thirtieth preambular paragraphs. We cannot consider them as agreed paragraphs because of their reference to “those who are in vulnerable groups” and so-called “marginalized” populations. Our position on those terms was set out in detail in many documents of the Third Committee. We believe that everyone should indeed have equal opportunities in terms of access to healthcare services, especially women and children because of their special needs and requirements. That also applies to people in difficult life situations. We consider the inclusion of the terminology I just mentioned as yet another attempt to promote the topic of sexual minorities. Such approaches are unacceptable to us, and we would ask for that to be taken into consideration for future negotiations.

I deliver this statement on behalf of the United States, Israel and my own country, Japan. We would like to welcome today’s adoption of resolution 78/280, on global health and foreign policy. We also extend our deep appreciation to the co-facilitators, South Africa and the core group, for their dedicated efforts on the resolution. We find ourselves at a pivotal juncture in the wake of the coronavirus disease pandemic. The lessons we have learned must not be forgotten. It is incumbent on the international community to rekindle the spirit of our collective goal, leave no one’s health behind and prepare for the next pandemic. Our journey towards universal health coverage has been fraught with difficulties. The challenges have become increasingly complex, with divisions surfacing within the international community. It is during those challenging moments that we must return to the core of our mission, encapsulated in the simple yet profound principle, “Leave no one behind.” We must illuminate the path forward with the beacon of human dignity, ensuring that our commitment to those principles remains steadfast. Yet, in our pursuit of consensus, we acknowledge that some challenges emerged during the negotiations, in particular concerning specific policy issues such as technology transfer. We underscore the importance of addressing those issues in the forums and institutions specifically mandated to hold such discussions, in line with their respective governance frameworks. Therefore, we dissociate ourselves from the uncaveated references to technology transfer contained in the twenty-ninth preambular paragraph and paragraph 6 of the resolution. We affirm that the United Nations does not support the coerced or unlawful transfer of technology, the aim being to preserve a delicate equilibrium between accessibility and innovation. Today’s adoption of resolution 78/280 marks a milestone in our journey towards the 2030 Agenda. We must continue to redouble our efforts in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals so as to leave no one behind. In conclusion, let us remember that our work is far from over. The challenges ahead may be formidable, but our dedication to the principles of solidarity and cooperation will guide us towards a future in which all people can access the quality healthcare that they deserve.

I have the honour of delivering this statement on behalf of Canada, Australia and my own country, New Zealand (CANZ). We are grateful to the core group for their dedication to keeping the issue on the agenda in New York, where political will can drive action and momentum. We appreciate the hard work of the core group and understand the challenges that they faced in managing such a broad resolution. While CANZ supports the overall agenda, we believe that resolution 78/280 fell short in a few areas and could be improved. First, we have concerns with regard to the use of the term “unhindered” in paragraph 22 of the resolution, which we understand as referring to autonomous sanctions. Throughout the process, CANZ, along with others, advocated for its removal on account of its divisive nature. We maintain that such language does not contribute positively to the resolution. Sanctions target egregious conduct that is contrary to international norms and the rules-based order and they contain carefully crafted provisions to protect local populations. We continue to strongly oppose that language in discussions in Geneva. We regret that the facilitator chose to include that language in the resolution. Secondly, we appreciate the inclusion of a paragraph on sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights, which are a high priority for our delegations. However, we are disappointed that the facilitator did not include the text of paragraph 13 of resolution 75/130, the previous iteration of resolution 78/280. That paragraph was strong, action-oriented and the result of extensive negotiations, and was previously agreed in this exact context. It is troubling that the facilitator chose to amend it at the last minute. Thirdly, we would have preferred the sixteenth preambular paragraph on menstrual health, contained in the recently adopted resolution 78/130 on sustainable, safe and universal water, sanitation, hygiene waste and electricity services in health-care facilities, to have also been included in resolution 78/280. Lastly, we consider that the process had room for improvement. While CANZ engaged constructively and in good faith throughout, our highest priority issues were not given equal consideration or incorporated into the resolution. We believe that a collaborative and inclusive approach is necessary to achieving meaningful progress on the issues at hand. CANZ was pleased to engage positively, and we thank other delegations for their cooperation. We also extend our gratitude to the facilitator and the entire core group for their efforts. We look forward to making progress on the issue in the future.

Egypt welcomes the adoption of resolution 78/280 and the message that it conveys concerning the urgent need to pursue international efforts to bridge existing gaps in the global health architecture with a view to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3. Egypt thanks the core group for its efforts in facilitating the consultations leading to the adoption of the resolution. We find it regrettable that a number of delegations proposed amendments A/78/L.64 and A/78/L.65, with the aim of undermining the mandate related to the transfer of health technology and access to all medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and other health products. Egypt voted against those two amendments, in the belief that there is a need for concerted and serious international efforts to fulfil the right of every human being in every country and on every continent to receive the highest attainable standard of healthcare, in particular given the numerous gaps in the global healthcare architecture and the clear inequalities among the various healthcare systems that were exposed by the coronavirus disease pandemic. The two amendments proposed to remove the reference to unhindered access to medicines and vaccines. The question remains as to how we can meet today without reaffirming our commitment to removing all obstacles to global universal access to health technology on the basis of equality and non-discrimination so as to live up to the United Nations slogan that we do not leave anyone behind. After the three high-level meetings that the General Assembly convened last September, at which genuine gaps in healthcare systems were acknowledged, how could we meeting today without undertaking to improve mechanisms for making medicine and vaccines available so as to be ready to respond effectively to any future pandemics and ensure that the lessons of the coronavirus disease pandemic are learned? The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights enshrines the universal right to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress and its applications. The commitment to sharing the benefits of scientific progress in healthcare not only acknowledges that right but also represents a humanitarian duty to ensure the safety of all on the basis of the principle of solidarity. Egypt underscores the centrality of the principles of equality, global solidarity and international cooperation in the international efforts aimed at achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3. Egypt remains committed to engaging with the international community in all efforts to that end. In conclusion, the delegation of Egypt commends the enhancement of resolution 78/280 proposed by amendment A/78/L. 66 to add the thirty-first preambular paragraph. The amendment highlights the undermining of the right of people living under occupation in Gaza to healthcare and the daily violations to which the Palestinian people are being subjected as a result of the continued occupation of their lands and Israel’s ongoing brutal aggression against the Gaza Strip, which has claimed the lives of more than 34,000 Palestinian civilians and targeted medical facilities, health workers and humanitarian workers. Accordingly, we once again call for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Egypt will continue to liaise and pursue intensive efforts to that end.

Malaysia would like to explain its position on resolution 78/280 and its vote on draft amendments A/78/L.64, A/78/L.65 and A/78/L.66 thereto. Malaysia believes that the resolution submitted by the core group is relatively balanced and that its contents are reflective of our common objectives. As such, we are disappointed that several draft amendments to the resolution were submitted. Their adoption would have upset the balance, which was struck through a process that we believe is comprehensive and exhaustive. We also regret that the corresponding paragraphs in the resolution were put to a vote. The draft amendments contained in documents A/78/L.64 and A/78/L.65 deviate from the spirit of cooperation and, in turn, jeopardize the common interests of our peoples, especially those of developing countries. Malaysia believes that multisectoral and multi-stakeholder cooperation is important, especially towards achieving equity in the field of health, and, as such, must not be subjected to undue limitations and constraints. It is for that reason that Malaysia voted against the draft amendments. While we understand that the principal goal of every nation’s foreign policy is to uphold national security and interests, Malaysia is convinced that foreign policy and international relations must also be guided by the values of global solidarity, humanity and cooperation. Recognizing the importance of that process, Malaysia joined consensus on the resolution. We sincerely hope that Member States can engage and work together in our collective efforts to respond to global health challenges and the devastating impact thereof.

Israel would like to thank the facilitators, the World Health Organization and the core group on global health and foreign policy for their work. We have comments on several elements in the text of the resolution (resolution 78/280). Concerning the twenty-ninth preambular paragraph, we disassociate ourselves from that paragraph and align ourselves with the statement made by the representative of Japan. We reiterate Israel’s consistent position, voiced in various forums, that the technology transfer reflected in the text and actually taking place must occur in the context of voluntary and mutually agreed terms and that any text must reflect that principle explicitly. Adhering to that principle actually enables technology transfer, and the insertion of such a formulation in the text should enjoy the support of many Member States here, as evidenced in many United Nations resolutions, in which we had reached a consensus on that. With regard to paragraph 22, we disassociate ourselves from that paragraph after failing to accept the draft amendment proposed by the Swiss delegation, as we do not believe that we should prejudge the outcome of ongoing negotiations in Geneva. Finally, concerning paragraph 23 and the language on sexual and reproductive health and rights, we align ourselves with and join the statement made by the representative of the United States of America. This resolution is also relevant in the context of my country. Hamas builds up capabilities within and underneath hospitals, United Nations facilities, schools and civilian infrastructure. And by doing so, they commit a double war crime, shooting rockets at the Israeli civilian population from within the Palestinian civilian population. Israel is operating to depose the Hamas regime and remove the terrorist threat posed to Israel from the Gaza Strip and taking action to return all hostages. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages without exception. We will achieve those goals in compliance with international law. Israel works to limit the damage caused to civilian population, attacks only legitimate military targets and is permitting the passage of humanitarian supplies for the civilian population in Gaza. When it comes to global health and foreign policy, there is no clearer threat than the genocidal actions of murderous terrorists like Hamas. I would note that the Palestinian Authority has failed to condemn the horrendous 7 October 2023 attacks on Israeli civilians to this day.

I take the floor in the capacity of Chair of the Group of 77 (G-77) and China. The G-77 and China obviously welcomes the adoption of the resolution on global health and foreign policy (resolution 78/280), which was extensively negotiated. It is our firm belief that the process was comprehensive and exhaustive, leading to a balanced text. In that regard, we wish to thank members of the Group for supporting the global goal of improved health cooperation within the global system. The other draft amendments, if adopted, would have fundamentally altered the balanced text and acted against the broader interests of humankind, particularly the developing countries.

My delegation welcomes the adoption of resolution 78/280 by consensus and thanks the delegation of South Africa on its successful leadership, which led to the adoption of the resolution. The draft amendments that were proposed, particularly the first two draft amendments (A/78/L.64 and A/78/L.65) undermine international cooperation in the area of health, at a time when there is an urgent need for technology transfer to facilitate access to vaccines and medical equipment. Consequently, my delegation voted against those draft amendments. I wish to stress that unilateral coercive measures are illegal and inhumane and obstruct human rights, including the right to health. We believe that the third amendment proposed sheds light on the suffering of peoples living under occupation, including the Syrian people in the occupied Syrian Golan and the Palestinian people in occupied Palestine. My delegation disassociates itself from the controversial language in the text and reserves the right to interpret the language on sexual and reproductive health in line with its domestic laws and legislation.

We have heard the last speaker in explanation of vote or position after adoption. The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 125. Before adjourning this meeting, members are informed that the remaining speakers under agenda item 63, entitled “Use of the veto”, concerning the admission of new Members will be heard on Monday, 6 May, in the afternoon after the consideration of the items already announced in The Journal of the United Nations.