Mr. Chairman,

1. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Group of 77 and China on agenda item 129 entitled "Programme budget for the biennium 2010-2011". We would like to thank the Assistant Secretary-General for Central Support Services, Mr. Warren Sach, for introducing the reports of the Secretary-General on overseas property management and construction projects in progress (A/65/351) and the revised estimates for the relocation of the subregional headquarters of ECLAC (A/65/385). We also wish to thank the Chairperson of the ACABQ, Ms. Susan McLurg, for introducing the related report of the Advisory Committee (A/65/518).

2. The Group of 77 and China attaches great importance to the report on overseas project management and construction projects in progress. This Group has previously stated its strong position and support for proper mechanisms and strong management structures to implement construction projects.

3. The Group, therefore, notes the progress made in enhancing the role of the Headquarters in coordinating and supporting overseas property management and construction projects. Forums such as the Inter-Agency Network of Facilities Manager and the annual Conference of Facilities Manager for Offices Away from UN Headquarter are an important mechanism for facilitating development of strategic policy guidelines, sharing of best practices and identifying both short and long-term needs. This is critically important for the development of a consolidated strategy for addressing the identified needs, for consideration by member states.

4. The Group welcomes the progress made in implementing the construction of additional office facilities at the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in Addis Ababa. The existing cooperation and collaboration between the ECA and the host country authorities in support of this project, while encouraging, should be enhanced and further strengthened. The Group strongly believes that the scope of the project as originally designed should be maintained. Similarly, the Secretary-General should spare no effort in ensuring that Conference facilities at the ECA are maintained at the highest international level consistent with the stature and image of the UN. Africa Hall at ECA, is a case in point, this historical monument is in dire need of major renovation.

5. The Group further notes with appreciation the progress made in the implementing of the construction project at the United Nations Office in Nairobi. It is commendable that this project, which previously experienced long delays is now well underway and is projected to be completed before the end of the year. The manner in which this project is currently being executed is a clear demonstration of the importance of pro-active decision making oversight by Headquarters and dedicated project management capacity responsible for the day-to-day execution of the project. We believe that important lessons learned should be shared and also facilitate the development of best practices in executing other construction projects.

6. The Group welcomes the Secretary-General's proposals on the relocation of the sub-regional headquarters of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in Mexico. The Group's position is that all appropriate measures should be undertaken to ensure the security of both UN staff and property. We therefore strongly support the proposal to relocate the office.

I thank you.