Ms. President, Excellencies, Distinguished delegates,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China.

1. Since the adoption of the Geneva Declaration and Plan of Action, the Tunis Agenda, and the WSIS+10 outcomes, the World Summit on the Information Society has provided a unique multilateral framework for advancing a people-centred, inclusive and development-oriented Information Society. The WSIS+20 review offers a critical opportunity to take stock of progress, address persistent gaps, and renew commitments in light of profound technological change.

2. Over the past two decades, digital technologies have evolved at an unprecedented pace. Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing and advanced connectivity, are reshaping economies, transforming modes of production, and creating new opportunities for innovation, growth and social inclusion. For developing countries, these technologies hold significant potential to accelerate structural transformation, expand access to services, enhance productivity, and support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

3. At the same time, the Group underscores that the WSIS process remains of vital importance for developing countries. Despite notable progress, many developing countries continue to face structural digital divides in access, affordability, skills, infrastructure and meaningful connectivity. These divides risk reinforcing existing inequalities and limiting the ability of developing countries to fully benefit from digital transformation.

4. In this regard, the Group notes with concern that many of the commitments contained in the Geneva and Tunis outcomes-particularly those related to means of implementation-have not yet been fully realized. Financing remains a central challenge. Adequate, predictable and affordable financing is indispensable to expand digital infrastructure, promote universal and meaningful connectivity, and close the digital divides within and between countries.

5. The Group also wishes to draw attention to the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures, which hinder the ability of affected countries to access technologies, digital infrastructure and related services. Such measures undermine international cooperation, impede sustainable development, and restrict the legitimate right of countries to harness technology for the benefit of their peoples.

6. Furthermore, the Group reaffirms the importance of digital sovereignty, including the right of States to exercise authority over their national data in accordance with their legal frameworks and development priorities. Data governance must support development objectives, ensure equitable benefit-sharing, and respect national ownership.

7. We recognize that no single country or stakeholder, or a small group thereof, should be allowed to monopolize or control the Internet core infrastructure.

8. At the same time, we recognize that rapid technological progress also brings new and evolving risks. These include ethical concerns, social disruption, labour market impacts, data misuse, and widening inequalities. Addressing these risks requires inclusive international cooperation, policy coherence, and a balanced approach that enables innovation while safeguarding development and human well-being.