Madam Chair,

1. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China on the progress in the renovation of Africa Hall at the Economic Commission for Africa in Addis Ababa, and on the progress in the renovation of the North Building at the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean in Santiago, under agenda item on construction and property management.

2. The Group expresses its appreciation to the Governments of Ethiopia and Chile, as host countries, for their continued cooperation and facilitation of these important construction projects. The Group reiterates the importance of close engagement between the Secretariat and host Governments to ensure the successful and timely implementation of the projects.

On the Renovation of Africa Hall (ECA)

3. The Group notes with appreciation the substantial completion of the main renovation works in December 2024 and the completion of the remaining conference and information technology systems in February 2025. The Group takes note that the project is currently in its 12-month defect liability period until February 2026 and emphasizes the need to closely monitor and mitigate all identified issues, to ensure that the project is delivered within the scope and cost parameters approved by the General Assembly.

4. The Group acknowledges the voluntary contributions made by several Member States, both financial and kind, and encourages further contributions in support of the permanent exhibition and the Visitors' Centre. The Group further recognizes the significance of Africa Hall as a historical and cultural symbol of Africa's heritage and underlines the importance of ensuring the sustainability of its operations.

5. The Group also takes note of the lessons learned in governance, procurement, risk management and the use of local expertise. We stress the importance of integrating such best practices into the updated guidelines for the management of construction projects across the United Nations system.

On the Renovation of the North Building (ECLAC)

6. The Group welcomes the completion of the construction works of the North Building in May 2025 and the successful relocation of staff, noting that the project is now under a defect liability period until May 2026. The Group highlights the additional safeguards through extended liability clauses of up to 10 years for structural works, ensuring accountability and quality.

7. The Group commends ECLAC for adopting a holistic sustainable approach, with achievements representing important milestones in aligning with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

8. The Group notes the confirmed savings of $241,900 in 2025, which are to be credited back to Member States, and emphasizes that any significant changes in project costs must be brought to the attention of the General Assembly at the earliest stage, in line with the Committee's recommendations.

Thank you.