Madam Chairperson,

1. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China on agenda item 22 entitled: Globalization and Interdependence, and its sub-items (a): The role of the United Nations in promoting development in the context of globalization and interdependence, (b): Preventing and combating corrupt practices and transfer of funds of illicit origin and returning such assets to the countries of origin; and (c): International migration and development.

2. The Group expresses its appreciation to the Secretary-General for his various reports submitted under this important agenda item; i.e. A/65/272, A/65/90 and A/65/203. These reports will certainly inform our deliberations.

Madam Chairperson,

3. Globalization, without a doubt, has had a profound impact on all aspects of international relations. As a result, there has been a proliferation of economic, scientific, technological and cultural innovations, which have greatly affected all areas of human life, and especially the process of development in the developing world.

4. Although globalization can be a powerful and dynamic force for strengthening cooperation and accelerating growth and development, it nevertheless presents many risks and challenges especially to developing countries. It is, indeed, a process which can be uneven and unpredictable. Therefore, national efforts need to be complemented by intensified international cooperation in order to reverse the marginalization, manage the risks, overcome the challenges and seize the opportunities created by globalization. Developing countries need to maintain their right to development through policy space and strategies based on their unique social, political, economic and environmental conditions.

Madam Chairperson,

5. It is the conviction of the Group that the United Nations is in a unique position, as a universal forum, to strengthen international cooperation for promoting development in the context of globalization; in particular the integration of developing countries into the globalizing economy to enable them to take full advantage of all their potentials for economic growth and development. Therefore, the United Nations should play a fundamental role in the promotion and the strengthening of international cooperation and the coherence, coordination and implementation of the internationally-agreed development goals (IADGs), including the MDGs.

6. At the same time, the Group is of the view that each country has primary responsibility for its own development. That is why the role of national policies and strategies cannot be overemphasized in the achievement of sustainable development. These national efforts, however, should be supported by global programs and policies. In this context, developing countries ought to be able to harness the benefits from the economic globalization by increasing their participation in international economic decision making and norm-setting.

7. Globalization and interdependence, while strengthening common values, should boost and maintain local development, taking into account the traditions, culture and identity of the people, who together make up the common heritage of humanity. Special attention should be paid to preserve diversity which is the principal wealth of human development.

8. The Group takes note with satisfaction that the outcome document of the High-level Meeting on the Millennium Development Goals specifically emphasizes the importance of culture for development and its contribution to the achievement of the MDGs. The Group will present a draft resolution in this regard during this General Assembly session.

Madam Chairperson,

9. The G77 and China believes that corruption is a serious barrier to the effective resource mobilization and allocation. It diverts resources away from activities that are vital for hunger and poverty eradication and economic development. Corrupt practices not only endanger the stability of societies but also undermine sustainable development.

10. The Group invites the State Parties to the Conference of the United Nations Convention against Corruption to take further steps in implementing the outcome of the Convention, particularly initiatives on asset recovery and the provision of technical assistance and capacity building. There is a need to build knowledge and strengthen capacity in this important area, particularly among developing countries. There is also a need for increased collaboration with the developed countries and their financial institutions in uncovering illegal transactions involving such illicitly acquired funds, locating the funds and arranging for their return to countries of origin.

Madam Chairperson,

11. International migration both affects and is affected by the development process. It is one of the major issues that require attention due to its deep-rooted effects on population trends, development, and the very livelihood of millions of people around the world, especially in developing countries.

12. It has significant potential for improving development in developing countries. Remittance flows, for example, represent a significant source of external funding for many developing countries. The G77 and China, therefore, stresses the need to strengthen international cooperation on issues related to migration and to ensure that international migration is effectively managed for the benefit of all.

Madam Chairperson,

13. Finally, the Group stresses the need for developmental considerations to be placed at the centre when managing globalization at the international level to ensure that the benefits will profit all countries and all peoples of the world. Therefore, development partners as well as the UN system should coordinate their proposals, so that they are compatible with the national development plans and strategies of developing countries.

I thank you.