Madam Chair,

1. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, on agenda item 139: Proposed Programme Budget for 2025 update to the 11th annual progress report on Strategic Heritage plan (SHP) of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

2. The Group would like to thank the Secretariat and the ACBAQ for the respective reports on this agenda item.

3. The Group takes note of the Secretary-General's report, which provides an update to the 11th progress report on the (SHP). In this regard, the Group wishes to underscore the following key points:

4. First, The Group reaffirms its longstanding support for the (SHP) as a vital initiative to preserve, modernize and ensure the safety, and environmental sustainability of the United Nations facilities in Geneva.

5. We acknowledge the vital importance of maintaining and modernizing these facilities, while also being mindful of the Organization's ongoing financial constraints. To this end, the Group reiterates its calls for a comprehensive, transparent, and cost-effective approach to the that strikes a prudent balance between ambition and feasibility.

6. In this regard, the Group takes note of the proposed revised total project cost of 954.7 million Swiss francs, reflecting a 14 per cent increase over the approved ceiling. We also take note of the complex challenges that contribute to this escalation. At the same time, we remain concerned of the continued delay in the completion of the SHP, and stress the importance of effective project management, strict budgetary discipline, and the need to prevent further cost overruns and implementation delays.

7. In this context, the Group acknowledges the five options presented by the Secretary-General on the way forward for the SHP, including those involving the reduction or deferral of specific project elements. We concur with the ACABQ's recommendation that further detailed information is required to support informed and timely decision-making, including itemized projected costs of different elements of remaining works on each historic buildings and itemized works on building E.

8. The Group also encourages the Secretary General to intensify efforts to mobilize voluntary contributions from Member States, as well as donations by private entities in full compliance with all relevant rules and regulations, to help offset project costs. This includes securing support for specific components such as the renovation of the library in Building B.

9. Second, The Group also emphasizes the need for clarity on other related aspects of the project, including the total cost of implementing the new conferencing system and equipment in Building E, cost recovery for use of facilities by outside parties such as non-governmental organizations, and the impact of potential project de-scoping or cost increase on the host country loan arrangements. We look forward to timely availability of this important information.

10. Third, the Group shares the hope that decision on the way forward for the SHP could be concluded soonest. We stand ready to engage constructively on this matter. In light on the above, the Group encourages further alternative options that aim to avoid cost overruns and escalations, limit consequences of delays in the overall project and provide clear actionable solutions for the member states to consider.

Thank you, Madam Chair,