- Thank you Madame Moderator and thank you Mr. President for convening this debate that provides an opportunity for the discussion of views regarding the theme of Green Economy, which should be placed in the agreed context of sustainable development and eradication of poverty, as per Resolution AG 64/236.

- Argentina is speaking on behalf of G77 and China and in that condition permit me to underline the main positions of the Group on this theme and on the thematic debates of this morning and this afternoon.

- First of all, we would like to underline that this discussion on GE is not part of the formal preparatory process of UNCSD. Any contribution of this debate is informal, respecting the ongoing preparatory process of Rio plus 20.

- We would like to reiterate in its entirety the statement delivered by the G77 and China, at the interactive discussion of the Second Preparatory Committee meeting of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development: "A Green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication" (New York, 7 March 2011)

- We also stress that the Objectives and the other theme of the Conference are equally important for developing countries. In the same way that have been organized some Interactive Dialogues, Retreats and workshops on Green Economy we consider important to organized similar events to discuss the Objective of the Conference: "to secure renewed political commitment for sustainable development, assessing the progress to date and the remaining gaps in the implementation of the outcomes of the major summits on sustainable development and addressing new and emerging challenges", that is the interest of Developing countries.

- To make sense for developing countries, the discussion on GE should be placed into the right context: sustainable development and eradication of poverty. Furthermore, it should address the balance among the 3 pillars of sustainable development, contribute to reducing inequality and to transform development, while emphasizing that no "one-size-fits-all". An outcome on this theme should be based on a flexible approach that recognizes the different levels of economic, social and environmental development of developing countries, as well as their particular conditions and priorities.

- The preeminence of Rio Principles, particularly common but differentiated responsibilities, the Rio Declaration, Agenda 21, the Programme for the further implementation of Agenda 21, the Johannesburg Declaration on Sustainable Development and the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation must be assured.

- The focus of the Conference will include the theme of a green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication to be discussed and refined.

- GE should not imply conditionality to development assistance nor used as a trade restriction. An outcome on this theme should allow for expanded market access for products from developing countries while combating trade-distortive measures, such as subsidies in developed countries and "green protectionism", address the concerns related to the impact of new market mechanisms on the integrity of ecosystems, and the sustainable development of developing countries. It should further promote substantive changes in the current unsustainable consumption and production patterns, with developed countries taking the lead.

- Our consideration of the Green Economy should also encompass the recognition that marine, ocean, coastal and fisheries resources are the foundation of the economies of many developing countries including SIDS and coastal States and represents a primary pathway to future sustainable growth and poverty eradication.

- The underlying factor which is technology development, access and transfer should be properly addressed through international cooperation.

- Transfer and access to technology, are central to avoid the reality that poverty will increase in the short term. Social inclusion - in particular youth and women - and social dimension are key for developing countries.

- National and regional actions should be supported at the global level.

- Global indicators should not be imposed on developing countries. All GE strategies should be nationally owned and driven.

- On Rio plus 20, we should not lose the opportunity we have to set the pace to achieve sustainable development and eradicate poverty through a well established international cooperation.

- Means of implementation for developing countries, in particular for LDCS, SIDS, middle- income countries and Africa, including new and additional financial resources, are the key factor for the success of the Conference.

- We stand ready to find convergences and common approaches and bridge positions.

        Thank you.