Mr. Chair,

1. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. The Group would like to thank all briefers for introducing their respective reports.

2. We recognize that the present report is being submitted pursuant to General Assembly's endorsement of ACABQ's recommendations for the need to have comprehensive information on spending globally across the Secretariat, including ICT capital expenditures and comprehensive action to deal with cyber security. We also note that this report is presented for the consideration of the General Assembly when the first report of the SG on this matter remains before us to be considered. The Group would like to have more clarity in this regard.

3. We recognize that this report builds on the previous one, through detailed assessments covering five specific areas of investments relate to conferencing systems at Headquarters; safety and security needs at Headquarters, offices away from Headquarters and the regional commissions; renovation of buildings and facilities at ECLAC, renovation of ECA; and renovation of United Nations House in Jerusalem.

4. We note and appreciate the application of lessons learnt in other construction projects in designing the IT infrastructure to ensure stronger connectivity and backups in operations. We encourage the Secretary General to continue his efforts in this regard. However, we still feel that these figures don't completely capture ICT expenditure and investments across the organization and the assessment of the needs with medium- and long-term perspectives. The Group looks forward to having a more comprehensive data in the upcoming reports.

Mr. Chair,

5. The Group concurs with the ACABQ that the level of resources required for capital investment and/or progressive maintenance requirements for the Organization's capital assets should be based on the application of a reliable, consistent, and realistic valuation methodology, along with details concerning the applicability of comparable industry standards to all United Nations-owned and/or operated premises.

6. Furthermore, the capital investment proposals need to be fully coordinated and integrated with other approved strategies and initiatives, such as the improved service delivery concept, as well as other projects underway.

7. Any capital investment planning work programme should seek to maximize efficiency gains and operational effectiveness. It must clearly identify and justify requirements, including in relation to the standardization and interoperability of ICT equipment, and provide comprehensive, detailed, and transparent information on costs, as well as an assessment of the replacement cycle and actual usage of equipment across the Secretariat.

8. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, the Group of 77 and China stands ready to continue to engage constructively during the deliberations of this agenda item.

I thank you.