Mr. Chair,

1. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China on the construction projects under consideration.

2. The Group thanks the Chief of Service of the Field Operations Finance Division (FOFD), Mr. Weiyi Xiao, the Deputy Director of External Audit, Board of Auditors (BOA), Mr. Laurent Le Mercier, and the Vice-Chair of the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions (ACABQ), Mr. Katlego Boase Mmalane, for introducing their respective reports. We express our appreciation to the Governments of Ethiopia, Chile, Thailand, Kenya and Switzerland for their continued support and cooperation.

3. These projects are essential investments in safe, accessible and sustainable facilities that support the Organization's work. The Group reaffirms the importance of ensuring effective oversight and respecting the scope, budgets and schedules approved by the General Assembly. We encourage continued use of local expertise and materials, in accordance with United Nations procurement rules. Their long-term value also depends on sound maintenance arrangements, continuity of operations and the effective transfer of knowledge from project teams to facilities management personnel.

Mr. Chair,

4. Regarding Africa Hall at ECA, the Group recognizes its historical and cultural significance and welcomes progress towards project closure. Remaining defects and the outstanding value added tax (VAT) issue should be addressed promptly, and the sustainable operation of the Visitors' Centre should receive continued attention. We encourage efforts to maximize utilization of the renovated facilities.

5. At ECLAC, we welcome the North Building's contribution to environmental sustainability, including energy and water efficiency, and note the projected unspent balance upon final completion. We emphasize the importance of resolving the outstanding roof and drainage defects at the contractor's expense, with independent verification and effective use of contractual safeguards before final acceptance.

6. At ESCAP, the Group welcomes the transition from construction to operational use of the upgraded premises. We encourage continued monitoring throughout the defect liability period and a comprehensive final inspection before contractual closure. Improvements in space utilization should be accompanied by attention to staff feedback, including concerns regarding noise and privacy, to preserve a productive working environment.

7. For these three projects, the Group looks forward to timely closure and clear reporting on outstanding liabilities, remaining balances and amounts to be returned to Member States. Lessons from commissioning, handover and maintenance should inform the updated construction management guidelines and future projects.

8. Regarding the replacement of office blocks A-J at UNON, we welcome the improvements in accessibility, sustainability and space utilization, and note that no additional appropriation is requested for 2027. We encourage timely completion of the remaining works and reconciliation of final accounts, alongside verification of the benefits achieved and the return of unused balances upon project completion.

Mr. Chair,

9. The Group reiterates its support for the UNON Conference Facilities Project and its contribution to strengthening Nairobi's capacity to host intergovernmental meetings. We note that the overall approved budget and September 2029 completion target remain unchanged. As construction advances, we emphasize close monitoring of schedule adjustments, transparent procurement and effective coordination among contractors. We also encourage efforts to attract meetings and mobilize voluntary contributions, while ensuring the resources and operational support necessary for implementation.

10. Turning to the Strategic Heritage Plan, the Group acknowledges the progress achieved but remains concerned that building E is now projected for substantial completion in July 2028, beyond the deadline established in resolution 79/297. We request updated information on the implications of this delay and measures to prevent further slippage, contain costs and deliver the approved scope within the revised budget. Liquidity constraints should not translate into avoidable delays and additional costs. The operational implications of deferred works, particularly for conference facilities, should also be clearly explained. The Group reaffirms that, as set out in resolution 79/297, any further increase in costs of the Strategic Heritage Plan beyond the approved budget should be funded from voluntary contributions.

11. We emphasize timely follow-up to the Board of Auditors' recommendations, particularly on schedule control, risk management, procurement and resolution of outstanding defects. Effective use of renovated premises and reliable information on occupancy remain important to realizing the project's benefits.

Mr. Chair,

12. The Group of 77 and China remains committed to constructive engagement to support the successful completion of these projects, safeguard the Organization's resources and ensure that their benefits endure.

Thank you.