STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE GROUP OF 77 AND CHINA BY MS. DAYANA RIOS, MINISTER COUNSELOR OF THE PERMANENT MISSION OF THE PLURIONATIONAL STATE OF BOLIVIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS, ON AGENDA ITEM 134, REVISED ESTIMATES RELATING TO THE PROGRAMME BUDGET FOR THE BIENNIUM 2014-2015 UNDER SECTION 22, ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMISSION FOR WESTERN ASIA, AND SECTION 33, CONSTRUCTION,ALTERATION, IMPROVEMENT AND MAJOR MAINTENANCE (New York, 25 March 2014)

Mr. Chairman,

1. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the G77 and China on agenda item 134 in particular revised estimates relating to the programme budget for the biennium 2014-2015 under section 22, ESCWA, and section 33, Construction, alteration, improvement and major maintenance.

2. The Group would like first to thank Mr. Jan Huisman, Director of Programme Planning and Budget Division, for introducing the Secretary-General's report contained in document A/68/748, as well as Mr. Pavel Chernikov, Vice-Chairperson of the ACABQ, for introducing the related report contained in document A/68/808.

Mr. Chairman,

3. The Group of 77 and China welcomes and fully support the Secretary-General's proposal on the establishment of two temporary positions (1 P5 and 1Local level) as well as allocation of additional resources in the amount of US$ 7.3 million under the programme budget for the biennium 2014-2015 comprising increase under section 22, section 33, and section 36 as part of responding to the mandates to ensure effectiveness and efficiency of ESCWA and the safety and security of its staff;

Mr. Chairman,

4. In conclusion, allow me to assure of the Group of 77 and China readiness to engage constructive deliberations with the aim of finalizing this item as quickly as possible,

I thank you Mr. Chairman.