Madam President,

1. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of the 77 and China, whose Member States salute the convening of this informal plenary meeting.

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.