STATEMENT BY MRS. DIEDRE MILLS ON BEHALF OF THE G-77 AND CHINA ON ITEM 13(I) OF THE GENERAL SEGMENT OF THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COUNCIL: REPORT OF THE STATISTICAL COMMISSION (New York, 20 July 2005)

I take the floor on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, on agenda item 13(i) on the Report of the Statistical Commission, to reiterate the importance which the Group attaches to the work of the Statistical Commission. As we indicated at the last meeting of the Commission in March 2005, the technical work undertaken by the Statistical Commission provides an important intergovernmental platform for the creation of an integrated system on the collection, processing and dissemination of international statistics.

Against this background we are pleased that the session drew special attention to the need for statistical capacity-building in developing countries, especially the focus on the importance of the provision of financial support and technical assistance to developing countries.

As the intergovernmental system-wide focal point to deal with the implementation of the international development goals, we believe that the role of the Commission should be further strengthened within the UN system. While mindful of the work which has been undertaken to date, we would wish to reiterate the need for greater emphasis to be placed on indicators for monitoring implementation of MDG goal 8. In light of the significant review to be undertaken by the General Assembly later this year on the follow-up to and implementation of the outcomes of UN conferences and summits, we hope that concrete action will be taken to advance the prospects for the implementation of these commitments, so that developing countries can be given the necessary assistance for the achievement of the goals contained in the Millennium Declaration.

I thank you.