Madam President,

2. Today, as we commemorate for the first time ever the "International Day against Unilateral Coercive Measures", we are reminded of the profound connection between this observance and the adoption, on this very day, in 1986, of the "Declaration on the Right to Development", which remains of paramount importance for the Global South. The right to development, we cannot overemphasize, is an inalienable human right, and unilateral coercive measures stand as one of the most significant obstacles to its full realization.

3. In this context, we recall that the Group of the 77 and China has consistently and firmly rejected the imposition of unilateral economic, financial, and trade measures not in accordance with international law and the UN Charter. These measures violate, among others, the principles of sovereignty, non-interference, and the multilateral trading system. They disproportionately affect developing countries, exacerbating poverty, undermining social services, and hindering our collective efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Madam President,

4. We take note of the latest report of the Secretary-General on this subject, as contained in document A/80/415, which provides clear evidence of the detrimental impacts of unilateral measures on affected countries. The report confirms that such measures harm trade, investment, public health, food security, and technology transfer, and disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations.

5. In this context, we reiterate our call for the full implementation of General Assembly resolution 78/135 and, upon its adoption, of the draft resolution A/C.2/80/L.10, which request the Secretary-General to continue monitoring and reporting on the imposition and impact of unilateral coercive measures, particularly on trade and development. We urge the UN System to strengthen its efforts in documenting and addressing the negative consequences of these measures, particularly on States' efforts to fully attain sustainable development.

Madam President,

6. The Group of the 77 and China also emphasizes the importance of solidarity, dialogue, and cooperation, over coercion and isolation. We call on the international community to reject all forms of unilateral economic pressure and to work collectively towards a fair, inclusive, and rules-based international order, while reaffirming our solidarity with all nations and peoples affected by unilateral coercive measures, particularly those from our grouping.

7. Moreover, and bearing in mind the increased resort to the promulgation and application of unilateral measures, particularly against developing nations, as confirmed by the latest report of the Secretary-General, we consider it may be appropriate to consider the appointment of a Special Advisor to address this phenomenon and serve as focal point, within the United Nations System, for advocacy, monitoring and coordination in redressing its negative impacts.

Madam President,

8. On this symbolic day, let us reaffirm our commitment to the right to development and our collective resolve to eliminate once and for all unilateral coercive measures. Let us ensure that no country is left behind, in line with our international commitments, particularly in the development field.

I thank you.

2. At the outset, the Group wishes to express its appreciation to the Co-Chairs for convening this important discussion and for the informative briefing held on 25 November, which provided valuable insights into this important topic. The Group further extends its gratitude to the panelists for their insightful presentations and valuable contributions.

3. On the Mandate Implementation Review process under the UN80 Initiative, we would like to highlight preliminarily the following core principles:

First, this process must remain fully Member-State-led. From mandate creation to delivery and review, the intergovernmental nature of the United Nations must be preserved. Secretariat support should remain neutral and procedural, ensuring that negotiated language and the original intent of mandates are upheld.

Second, we see broad recognition of the need to strengthen mandate design from the outset. Mandates should be clear, focused, and realistic, supported by appropriate resource planning and early coordination with the Secretariat. Enhanced capacity-building, including mandate registry and templates for mandate drafting, would contribute to improving the quality and impact of future mandates.

Third, noting the growing administrative burden in terms of meetings and reports which does not always translate into improved outcomes, measures such as consolidating reports, adjusting periodicity where appropriate, and improving the analytical quality of mandated outputs could be considered. This would free up valuable resources and enhance delivery. However, such measures should be considered on a case by case basis, and should be undertaken only with the consent of all Member States.

Fourth, improving mandate implementation requires stronger coherence, coordination, and oversight across the UN system. More aligned programmatic delivery and more efficient use of resources will be essential to achieving concrete results on the ground. Moreover, the continued relevance of mandates should not be determined by their age.

4. We also acknowledge the potential for technology, including AI, to support information management and streamline administrative processes, while ensuring strict safeguards, Member State oversight, and protection of agreed language.

5. In conclusion, the review must avoid the path of the 2006 exercise. Nor should our deliberations duplicate ongoing revitalization discussions in the main committees. Instead, our efforts should be forward looking, objective, and balanced across all three pillars of the United Nations in line with the purposes of the UN Charter, ensuring that decisions remain firmly with Member States and that ongoing priorities, especially those of developing countries, are safeguarded, recalling as well that there is no "one size fits all" approach. We must uphold the general rule that UNGA resolutions remain valid until they are fully implemented.

6. The Group of 77 and China stands ready to engage constructively in this process, with a view to ensuring that mandates remain fit for purpose, that resources are used effectively, and that the priorities of developing countries are fully reflected and advanced.

I thank you.

2. The Group extends its appreciation to the Secretary General, Mr. António Guterres, for presenting revised estimates relating to the proposed programme budget for 2026 and the support account for peacekeeping operations for the 2025/26 period. We also thank Ms. Juliana Gaspar Ruas, Chair of the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions (ACABQ), for introducing the Committee's related report.

Madam Chair,

3. The Group regrets that the revised estimates relating to the proposed programme budget for 2026 and the support account for peacekeeping operations for the 2025/26 period, as well as the related ACABQ report, were presented with considerable delay this year. Member States now have barely one month to complete the entire process leading to the adoption of the budget. Such limited time inevitably constrains the ability of delegations to conduct a thorough review and assessment of the basis for the proposed budget reductions, to submit relevant questions, and to obtain timely answers. This situation will regrettably require Fifth Committee experts to work intensively until the very last days of the year.

4. The Group expresses concern regarding the very limited explanations and clarifications on the methodology applied by different entities in identifying the number, levels, and functions of the proposed staffing changes. In this context, the Group requests that comprehensive information be provided to Member States on the selection of posts and the choice of duty stations proposed for abolishment or relocation, including the associated costs and benefits, in order to enable informed consideration of the proposals.

5. The Group reiterates that the development pillar should maintain its priority under UN80 Initiative with a focus on how to further enhance support to developing countries. In this context, the Group expresses its grave concern over the disproportionate reductions across priority areas. Sections related to international cooperation for development (sections 9, 10, 12,15 and 17) face an overall 16.7% cut, compared with 10.6% in peace and security (sections 3, 5, 6) and only 0.6% in human rights and humanitarian affairs (sections 25-27). Moreover, the proposal to abolish 469 posts under economic growth, sustainable development and Africa representing 57.6% of all proposed abolishments raises serious questions of balance and fairness.

6. The Group recalls that it has previously noted that the UN80 Initiative represents an opportunity to address the percentage of high-level posts in the Organization and its rejuvenation. In this context, the Group notes that most of the proposed abolishment do not meet this objective. It notes with concern that the proposed staffing changes include a net reduction of 72 P-2/1 posts, a reduction of 12.1 per cent in comparison to the 2025 approved posts, the grade with the second highest reduction percentage at the professional level.

7. The Group also looks forward to receiving clarification on the functions and roles to be performed by the Under-Secretary-General for Policy and the reasons for proposing to transfer a post performing such core functions like policy of the Organization to being funded under extrabudgetary resources that are beyond the oversight of member states.

Madam Chair,

8. The Group further emphasizes that reform should not become a mere cost-cutting exercise. Efficiency gains must translate into improved delivery and responsiveness, not into the erosion of mandated programmes or staff reductions that affect developing country's representation. The Group confirms that all revised estimates and restructuring proposals under UN80 be examined with utmost care, ensuring that no mandated activities are left in or underfunded and that the development pillar receives the attention and resources it rightfully deserves.

9. The Group reiterates that equitable geographical representation remains a core principle for our membership. We are seriously concerned that the UN80 Initiative, which entails the abolishment of numerous posts and positions, may further exacerbate existing imbalances in the Organization's geographical distribution. The Group therefore looks forward to receiving further information from the Secretary General on concrete steps to ensure that this vital principle is upheld.

Madam Chair,

10. The Regional Commissions are vital for translating global mandates into regionally tailored action, fostering cooperation among countries, and advancing sustainable development. In this context, the Group reiterates its longstanding call for strengthening the development pillar of the United Nations and will work to ensure adequate resources for bodies that are integral to it, including DESA, UNCTAD, OHRLLS, ECA, ESCAP, ECLAC, and ESCWA.

11. The Group of 77 and China reiterates its strong support for (UNRWA), recognizing its indispensable role in assisting Palestine refugees, and will work towards ensuring that it receives the necessary and predictable financial resources to continue its vital work during these challenging times.

12. The Group is deeply concerned by the financial constraints caused by the persistent arrears in assessed contributions, most of which are owed by the single largest contributor. These arrears undermine the Organization's ability to implement its approved programme budget. Approval of the proposed budget for 2026 will be meaningless if the Organization is not provided with the liquidity required to deliver its mandates.

13. In this regard, the Group proposes that whenever a liquidity crisis arises, the Secretary-General should issue a public statement at the opening of the General Debate of the General Assembly during the High-Level Week, informing Member States of the Organization's financial situation. Such transparency would elevate this critical matter to the highest political level, where it rightfully belongs, to encourage renewed commitment to financial responsibility towards the United Nations.

14. In conclusion, the Group of 77 and China would like to emphasize the importance of open, transparent and inclusive negotiations on the programme budget. The Group assures you of its constructive approach in these negotiations, for an outcome that would strengthen the Organization and harmony among the Member States.

I Thank You.