Madam Chair,

1. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. The Group wishes to thank Mr Chandru Ramanathan, Acting Controller of the Office of Programme Planning, Budget and Accounts (OPPBA) and Mr Babou Sene, Vice-Chair of the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions (ACABQ) for introducing their respective reports.

Madam Chair,

2. At the outset, we would like to join the Secretary-General in commending the judicial officials and staff of the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia for their dedication and determination in fulfilling the mandate of the Chambers under trying circumstances. We note the progress made in the judicial proceedings and encourage the Chambers to take all necessary measures to expedite case completion, including through more effective planning, while fully respecting the requirements of the judicial progress.

3. The Group remains seized with the efficient and effective operation of the Chambers. We recall that by its resolution 72/262, the Assembly re-affirmed the high priority accorded to the work of the Chambers. As such we continue to stress that ensuring adequate and sustainable financing for the Chambers remains a priority for the Group. This will ensure the smooth and efficient progress in the dispensation of justice in the Chambers.

4. The Group commends Cambodia, the Host Country, for its commitment to provide the majority of funding of the national component over the past four years. We further commend Member States who have provided extrabudgetary resources towards the important work of the Chambers. However, we remain concerned over the persistent financial challenges facing the Chambers.

5. The Group commends the Secretary-General for the adoption of cost-saving measures in light of the shortfall from confirmed and anticipated pledges and contributions. We strongly encourage the Secretary-General to redouble his efforts in mobilising the necessary funds, through voluntary contributions from Member States, to fulfil the funding gaps for the national and international components of the Chambers.

6. The Group supports the Secretary-General's proposal in the amount of US$9.7 million to supplement the extrabudgetary resources for the year 2019, which we trust, will be considered positively during our deliberations. The Group looks forward to receiving from the Secretary-General the framework for the completion of work of the Chambers and for the performance of any necessary residual functions.

7. The Group has also studied the recommendations contained in the report of the ACABQ and we will provide our comments and queries on the proposed way forward during our informal consultations.

Madam Chair,

8. In conclusion, let me assure you of the commitment of the Group of 77 and China to work constructively with all delegations towards the timely conclusion of this agenda item.

I thank you.