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

The Group wishes to express its highest appreciation to the President of ECOSOC and the Co-Chairs, Zambia and Austria, for this insightful briefing on the progress toward preparations for the STI Forum, under the theme: "Transformative, equitable and coordinated science, technology and innovation for the 2030 Agenda and a sustainable future for all".

Science, technology, and innovation (STI) is central in tackling the multidimensional crises facing humanity and in advancing the development priorities of the Global South.

The Group's Heads of State and Government already underscored, during the Havana Summit in 2023, the indispensable role of STI for economic diversification, competitiveness, resilience, and sustainable development.

STI stands out as a vital enabler of progress. It is a driver of productivity growth, competitiveness, and effective integration of developing countries into the global economy and it accelerates the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals.

Harnessing STI through solidarity, international cooperation, and the exchange of knowledge and technologies is therefore essential to building a more equitable and prosperous future for all.

Developing countries recognizes the advances and progress achieved. However, we continue to face deep and multifaceted digital divides, while technologies continue to rapidly evolve.

The Group reiterates the urgent need to support developing countries in building their digital capacities, including through scaled-up investments in infrastructure, education and training systems, ensuring that the benefits of technological progress are shared equitably.

We call for the transfer of technology to developing countries on preferential and concessional terms, alongside strengthened international cooperation in research, innovation, and capacity-building.

Mr. President,

It is crucial to continue to address this issue in international debates, including in the next session of the STI Forum, and to advocate for the interests of Developing countries continuously and strongly, so we can deliver a "transformative, equitable and coordinated" STI, as this year's theme calls for.

The Group looks forward to participate in the STI Forum next May, which provides an open platform to explore ways to harness science, technology, and innovation for implementing the Sustainable Development Goals for the benefit of all.

I thank you.