Fighting Climate Change Demands Urgent Action in Environmental, Financial, Energy Sectors, Delegates Stress, as Second Committee Continues Its General Debate
The threats and ravages of climate change are inextricably linked to national and global progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, requiring urgent action in the environmental, financial and energy sectors, speakers stressed today as the Second Committee (Economic Financial) continued its annual general debate.
The representative of Kazakhstan called for special attention to the needs of geographically disadvantaged countries like his, warning that Central Asia may experience a 2 to 2.5°C increase in temperature. Recalling a proposal by his Government to host a regional climate summit in 2026 under United Nations auspices, he noted that the country will submit a consensus resolution focusing on international cooperation and coordination for the rehabilitation and economic development of the Semipalatinsk region, inviting Member States to support and co-sponsor the resolution.
Andorra’s representative stated that, as a landlocked and mountainous country, it is vulnerable to climate change — and therefore a balance must be found between tourism and sustainable development. He spotlighted the formation, with France and Spain, of the Working Community of the Pyrenees, including the Pyrenean Climate Change Observatory, which provides recommendations for sustainable policies in the region and can eventually help territories adapt to climate change. Underlining the role of education in sustainable development, he highlighted its “green schools” initiative, launched in 2010.
The representative of Uruguay underlined the need for a more inclusive, equitable recovery, with strengthened environmental commitments. Uruguay is stepping up renewables in its energy matrix to 56 per cent in 2022, she said, also underlining its emphasis on environmental sustainability. The twenty-eighth United Nations Climate Change Conference is a crucial opportunity to advance specific adaptation and mitigation measures, she said, calling for the operationalization of the loss and damage fund.
Timor-Leste’s representative said his Government will promote policies that reverse biodiversity loss and restore ecosystem services, including through nature-based solutions. Calling for the fulfilment of commitments made on official development assistance (ODA) and climate finance, he stressed that it is important for development partners to provide substantial support to climate action initiatives through adequate financing and technological capacities. He further stressed the need for paramount compliance with the Paris Agreement on climate change and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda.
Other Member States responded to those calls, with the representative of the Republic of Korea affirming that his country — which increased its official development assistance (ODA) budget by 21.3 per cent in 2023 — will also continue to increase its green ODA and act as a “green ladder” to help climate-vulnerable countries reduce carbon emissions. To this end, it has pledged $300 million for the second replenishment of the Green Climate Fund in 2024-2027, in addition to another $300 million since the Fund’s inception. Furthermore, Seoul will launch a Carbon Free Alliance to share solutions on clean and carbon-free energy sources.
Kuwait’s representative, noting that the Middle East has suffered earthquakes, floods and fires, recalled that just after its independence in 1961, the country established the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development to provide concessional credit and assistance to “brother countries”. The Government addresses climate challenges with concrete steps, including the inauguration in 2022 of a desalination plant using photovoltaic solar panels and producing 30 megawatts of power and the launch of a solar park with a storage capacity of more than 5 gigawatts.
Stressing the importance of not exceeding a 1.5°C global temperature rise, Spain’s representative committed to phasing out fossil fuels and boosting energy efficiency and urged for increased ambition for resource mobilization and finance access. She further called for full implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and swift enactment of the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction.
In response, delegates from countries of concern cited their efforts to safeguard the environment for future generations, with Ecuador’s delegate noting that, given its status as a megadiverse country responsible for only 0.18 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions, his Government is transitioning towards a circular, resilient economy with the Ecuador Zero Carbon Programme. Stressing Quito’s commitment to protecting biodiversity, he pointed to the creation in 2022 of a new marine reserve in the Galapagos Islands called “Hermandad” or “Sisterhood”, which will safeguard them as a natural heritage of humanity.
The representative of the Congo recalled that his country will soon hold the Summit of the Three Basins of Biodiversity Ecosystems and Tropical Forests in Brazzaville. It will focus on South-South cooperation with the aim of ensuring cooperation between the three global ecosystems that represent 8 per cent of global biodiversity and act as carbon-level regulators for life on Earth.
Peru’s representative noted that, following the recent Summit for the Amazon, his country aims to preserve its biodiversity, land and water and has planted 5 million trees to this end. He highlighted pre-emptive action, totaling investments of $1 billion, undertaken by his Government to tackle the imminent threat posed by the El Niño phenomenon, which is bringing rains and flood to the northern coast of his country and droughts to the south.
The representatives of Armenia and Azerbaijan spoke in exercise of the right of reply.
The Committee will reconvene at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, 4 October, to conclude its general debate.
Statements
JASSER JIMÉNEZ (Nicaragua), aligning himself with the “Group of 77” and China, said that the current financial model “is both selfish and capitalist”. It should be replaced by one that prioritizes common but shared responsibility, with an indispensable climate justice reparation policy towards the most vulnerable States. Official development assistance (ODA) commitments must materialize, with resources for adaptation, mitigation, loss and damage, technology transfer and conservation. The need to create a new economic model based on equity, social justice, and equality between States and Governments “is more obvious than ever,” focused in particular on poverty eradication in all its dimensions. Condemning the imposition of unliteral coercive measures by imperialistic and neocolonialist countries, he voiced solidarity with 2 billion people in more than 30 countries who suffer under them on a daily basis.
KARLITO NUNES (Timor-Leste), noting that his country places people at the centre of its development trajectory, highlighted its five-year programme, which prioritizes infrastructure development, economic growth, strong governance, the rule of law and the fight against corruption. Underscoring the importance of investing in human capital and improving productive capacity through science, technology and innovation, he said his Government will promote policies that reverse biodiversity loss and restore ecosystem services, including through nature-based solutions. Calling for the fulfilment of commitments made on ODA and climate finance, he stressed that it is important for development partners to provide substantial support to the climate action initiatives through adequate financing and technological capacities. Also expressing support for the multidimensional vulnerability index and looking forward to its adoption, he stressed the need for paramount compliance with the Paris Agreement on climate change and Addis Ababa Action Agenda.
NELLY BANAKEN ELEL (Cameroon), associating herself with the Group of 77, as well as with the African Group, stressed the importance of the means of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) implementation to be mobilized. “We have got the vision, we don’t need additional concepts. We need money, financing,” she emphasized, calling for financing for development, climate action and building resilience. “Money to be invested into building infrastructures, vocational school and training, green energy, circular economy, innovation, youth and women economic empowerment, universal health, resilience and so on,” she said, adding that there are means and tools available to fix most of the problems and challenges.
KAOUTHAR CHELBI (Tunisia), aligning herself with the Group of 77 and the African Group, noted that a delicate international situation, aggravated by conflicts, had slackened the pace of sustainable development and intensified poverty and hunger, as well as gaps between the Global North and South. Against this backdrop, she said the international financial system is unable to provide a global safety net to developing and least developed countries, pointing to borrowing rates being eight times higher for them, compared to advanced economies. Therefore, she called for the system to be reformed, for unused special drawing rights (SDR) to be allocated to these less advantaged economies. As well, a serious approach must be taken to retrieving illicit financial flows, to help countries achieve self-sufficiency. On climate change, which has clear impacts on her country, she called for more climate financing to be provided, and for the activation of the loss and damage fund ahead of the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai.
NIGAR BAYRAMLI-HAMIDOVA (Azerbaijan), aligning herself with the Group of 77 and the Group of Landlocked Developing Countries, said her State has actively pursued transformative initiatives, reshaping its economy with a dedicated focus on sustainability, social justice and clean energy. Azerbaijan has voluntarily committed to a significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and is also a key player in the development of trans-regional connectivity projects. Expressing regret that Armenia’s representative launched unwarranted accusations in his statement on 2 October, she said that his insinuations about the blockade and humanitarian catastrophe are clear indicators of attempts to destabilize the situation. The UN team that visited the Nagorno-Karabakh region two days ago found no damage to civilian public infrastructure, including hospitals, schools and housing, she said.
LAZARE MAKAYAT-SAFOUESSE (Congo), associating himself with the Group of 77 and the African Group, said that his country will soon hold the Summit of the Three Basins, Biodiversity Ecosystems and Tropical Forests in Brazzaville. It will focus on South‑South cooperation with the aim of ensuring cooperation between the three global ecosystems, that represent 8 per cent of global biodiversity and act as carbon level regulators for life on Earth. Reiterating his commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, he pointed out that his country has officially launched the SDGs in 2016 and harmonized them with the assistance of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Through its national development plan for 2022‑2026, the Government has defined several priority areas, including agriculture and special economic zones, he reported.
NEVILLE MELVIN GERTZE (Namibia) said that a “sober reality has emerged” — his State, like many developing countries, has fallen short of meeting most SDG targets by 2030. Decades of progress on national development goals have been jeopardized by persistent droughts, stagnating economic growth, COVID‑19 and multiple geopolitical conflicts. Similarly, many developing countries are experiencing regression on the fundamental goals of eliminating hunger and poverty. Stating that concerted efforts to address poverty, inequality and unemployment are needed for Namibia to advance SDG progress, he underlined the need for increased investment in disaggregated data generation, analysis and dissemination to better assess progress in these areas. Also urging other measures, he called on developed countries and multilateral development banks to provide immediate financial support, including debt swaps and new allocations of SDRs.
DIEGO PARY RODRÍGUEZ (Bolivia), aligning himself with the Group of 77 and the Group of Landlocked Developing Countries, reaffirmed the need to swiftly address the structural causes of inequality and poverty with concrete decisions, and to build consensus based on the needs of people, considering the diversity of contexts. On macroeconomic policies, he called for profound reform of the global financial architecture; postponing this task only dooms more and more people to poverty. Such reforms must include governance allowing all countries to build an international financial system that can respond to their needs and expectations. He further noted that in the fight against the climate crisis in the context of international trade, no policy should represent additional unfair barriers for developing countries. The international community must also deliver on an equitable, fair and transparent tax system, one of the foundations for sustainable development.
ISHIKANE KIMIHIRO (Japan) said that his country is determined to work together with all States and called for the preparation for the next outbreaks of infectious diseases like COVID‑19, pledging to contribute $7.5 billion in 2022‑2025. “Climate change is an urgent issue and the international community should address it immediately,” he continued, promising further support to disaster reduction. Reminding that lasting peace cannot be achieved without education, he said that his country also prioritizes education for achieving human security, as it is a fundamental human right and an enabler for all SDGs. He also said that his country will continue to promote women’s empowerment.
CATHERINE MOGAKA (Kenya), aligning herself with the Group of 77 and the African Group, detailed her country’s Bottom‑Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which is projected to create 5 million jobs, pull 2.9 million people out of hunger by 2027 and lift 5.5 million people out of poverty while accelerating progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. She urged the global community to establish a proactive debt restructuring initiative, reform financial markets, actualize the Secretary General’s stimulus package for the SDGs and establish a global public climate financing mechanism, in addition to ensuring sustained engagement in multilateral processes. She also reaffirmed Kenya’s unwavering support for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN‑Habitat), which are both based in the country.
HOANG NGUYEN NGUYEN (Viet Nam), associating himself with the Group of 77 and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), called on developed countries and international financial institutions to support developing countries in fostering green technology, green finance and energy transition. The loss and damage fund should be operationalized at the twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change , he said, recalling that Viet Nam is joining others to introduce a resolution to proclaim the period 2023–2034 as the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development. Viet Nam has integrated all 17 SDGs into its national socio-economic development plans and strategies — called the National Master Plan 2021-2030 with a vision towards 2050 — and other sectoral policies. Recently, the country has participated in the Just Energy Transition Partnership, he added.
MERETE FJELD BRATTESTED (Norway), underscoring the key role of the UN development system, said that independent and adequately resourced resident coordinators are crucial for the Organization to deliver at the country level. Sustainable development is at the core of her country's foreign policy, she said, adding that it prioritizes economic development, democratization, implementation of human rights, good governance and measures that can lift people out of poverty for good. The effects of climate change, environmental degradation and biodiversity loss affect progress on all other Goals, she pointed out. The international community must work together to unlock renewable energy access in emerging economies, she said, stressing that food security is part and parcel of the climate agenda. Financing for development is under pressure, she noted, adding that that international tax cooperation is an integral part of the effort to maximize resources and direct them towards sustainable development.
NORBERTO MORETTI (Brazil), aligning himself with the Group of 77, noted that the theme of the current session, on sustainable recovery, was opportune as the world is experiencing a period of turbulence. Brazil emphasized the message of sustainable development for all during all recent multilateral events, including the High-level Week and the SDG Summit, he said, spotlighting in this regard Brazil President Lula da Silva’s address to the Assembly about his commitment to fight against inequalities within and among countries. He called for more to be done to address stark inequalities, including extreme poverty and hunger, which disproportionately affect the Global South, noting that 670 million people experienced extreme poverty worldwide in 2023. Turning to climate change, he said his country pledged to host the thirtieth UN Climate Change Conference in the Amazonian city of Belém do Pará in 2025. Over the past eight months, Brazil has reduced the deforestation of the Amazon by 50 per cent, and intends to bring that rate to zero by 2030.
REEM FAHAD O. ALOMAIR (Saudi Arabia), aligning herself with the Group of 77, said that her Government prioritizes international development, having accorded $2.7 billion in development assistance in 2022 in the public and private sectors. Turning to climate action, she called for a balanced approach that takes into account different national and regional circumstances, with an eye towards fostering global energy security. Saudi Arabia also seeks to protect natural resources by combating desertification and land degradation, she said, adding that it looks forward to hosting next year’s Conference of the Parties to the United Nation Convention to Combat Desertification in Riyadh. She also urged the international community to narrow the digital gap and achieve digital transformation to spur growth for all, particularly in developing countries.
GENG SHUANG (China), associating himself with the Group of 77, said that unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, resulting in a deteriorating environment for many developing countries. “We need to put development at the centre of the international agenda and the work of the United Nations, supporting the United Nations in playing the coordinating role,” he stressed, calling for inclusiveness and an open world economy. He also said that his country had integrated the 2030 Agenda into its national development strategy and is committed to working with countries of the Global South. “China, as the world’s second largest economy, has contributed more than 30 per cent to the global economic growth over the years,” he emphasized, pledging more opportunities and contributions to the world’s economic recovery and sustainable development.
HYUN WOO CHO (Republic of Korea) said that his country, which increased its official development assistance (ODA) budget by 21.3 per cent in 2023, is aiming for an even greater increase in 2024 to further strengthen investment in education and training. The Government will also continue to increase its green ODA and act as a “green ladder” to help climate-vulnerable countries reduce carbon emissions. To this end, it has pledged $300 million for the second replenishment of the Green Climate Fund in 2024‑2027, in addition to another $300 million since the Fund’s inception. Furthermore, Seoul will launch a Carbon Free Alliance to share solutions on clean and carbon-free energy sources. To create a blueprint of a digital society, it has announced a digital bill of rights on 25 September, he said, adding that the Republic of Korea will host AI Summit Seoul in 2024.
GHEORGHE LEUCĂ (Republic of Moldova) said that the European Village Programme is providing better water, sanitation and social infrastructure across the country. Implementation of the Istanbul Convention and improvements to the national labour legislation have contributed to closing the gender gap, he said, highlighting also progress in accessing information and communications technology (ICT) with a high penetration rate of broadband Internet services, mobile networks and the digitalization of public services. Going forward, the Republic of Moldova will speed up the implementation of domestic reforms in the justice sector, after the Government adopted in June a national action plan titled “Building European Moldova” that is aligned with SDGs. Furthermore, together with Germany, the country is developing a road map for decarbonizing the transport sector by 2050, while also working on a climate action law, among other initiatives, he said.
EVANGELOS SEKERIS (Greece), aligning himself with the European Union, called for efforts to be redoubled for the timely implementation of the 2030 Agenda, noting that the pandemic put global development at risk. However, he noted that such a crisis provided an opportunity for structural transformation. States must capitalize on opportunities for transformative change, including through digital adaptation, which has witnessed dramatic if not uneven improvements during the pandemic. Greece calls for increased investments to be made in fostering human well-being, as well as green and digital skills. As well, environmental protection must be strengthened in the context of climate change. Citing the Secretary-General’s framing of the current situation as one of “climate chaos” he said that such trends were not just impacting the poorest; Southern Europe and the Mediterranean region are also being affected by floods, fire and heatwaves. Greece has therefore invested millions into mitigation efforts, has enacted its first climate law and intends to decarbonize its islands.
TIÉMOKO MORIKO (Côte d’Ivoire), aligning himself with the Group of 77 and the African Group, cited repercussions generated by the war in Ukraine on food security and energy markets. Ensuring a strong and sustainable recovery for all will require, inter alia, properly managing inflationary pressures while meeting debt challenges. On climate, it is important to integrate adaptation measures in economic recovery programmes, and adopt a green, resilient and inclusive approach to development. He further urged the international community to help countries strengthen resilience to disasters through investment in infrastructure, emergency interventions, risk financing disaster prevention and safety nets. To rethink the international financial architecture, he called for reallocating hundreds of billions of dollars in unused SDRs to support developing countries. Côte d’Ivoire is working to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 28 per cent, and to increase its share of renewable energies in the energy mix to 42 per cent by 2030.
PETER MOHAN MAITHRI PIERIS (Sri Lanka), associating himself with the Group of 77, called for a comprehensive plan to address the financial difficulties of middle-income countries. “Today’s inequality and market failures mean that capacity, talent and potential resources are wasted, while others are consumed in unsustainable excess,” he stressed, adding that Sri Lanka’s economic situation has significantly improved compared to 2022. He said that his country appreciates the willingness of partner States to support the foreign debt optimization programme, reiterating the calls for debt forgiveness/write-offs for low-income countries. “We view South‑South cooperation as vital to development, particularly in this global context, but not as a replacement for North‑South cooperation,” he said, calling for rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity.
GUILLEM KALLIS BALDRICH (Andorra) observed that economic growth should go hand in hand with sustainable development policies, prioritizing an energy transition and environmental protection. As a landlocked and mountainous country, Andorra is vulnerable to climate change, he said, enumerating its goals including the decarbonization of the energy sector as part of the fight against climate change. A balance must be found between tourism and sustainable development. For Andorra, the scientific aspect is crucial to mountain development, he said, spotlighting in this regard its formation, with France and Spain, of the Working Community of the Pyrenees, including the Pyrenean Climate Change Observatory, which provides recommendations for sustainable policies in the region, and can eventually help territories adapt to climate change. Underlining the role of education in sustainable development, he highlighted its “green schools” initiative, launched in 2010, as well as its circular economy strategy.
MATEUSZ SAKOWICZ (Poland), describing his country’s successful economic transformation, said that since the 1990s, it has introduced some of the most far-reaching and radical economic reform programmes undertaken anywhere. While underscoring the importance of global solidarity, he also reaffirmed that each country has primary responsibility for its own economic and social development. Stressing the need to ensure sustainable, appropriate and efficient financing for development, he called for greater emphasis on attracting private capital to finance development needs. Further, in order to mitigate potential threats stemming from new digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, it is essential to protect human rights both online and offline. Also emphasizing the importance of addressing the food security crisis, he pointed to the need for anticipatory action and investments to tackle the root causes of that problem.
SOPHIA TESFAMARIAM (Eritrea), associating herself with the Group of 77, the African Group and the Group of Least Developed Countries, said that the international community is not only unable to meet the people’s aspirations, but also a “demolition pickaxe” that makes crises fester by pushing the weakest “to the wall” and turning them into a “docile tool” in the hands of the powerful few. Eritrea was the first to learn the lesson, she added. Despite unilateral coercive measures, Eritrea has, despite all odds, built a resilient society and a foundation for sustainable recovery, growth and development. Over the past years, it has revived infrastructure and improved public services, while struggling to protect its national sovereignty. “To build sustainable recovery from all these concurrent and cascading crises and achieve sustainable development, we must first believe that this recovery is an option,” she said.
JASON HAN WEI TAN (Singapore), associating himself with the Group of 77, the Alliance of Small Island States and ASEAN, said that a rules-based multilateral system remains “our best bet” to maintain a stable international environment. Digitalization and technology are key to accelerating the SDGs, he said, adding that States must close the digital divide by strengthening partnerships and promoting smart technological solutions. To this end, he spotlighted Singapore’s knowledge exchange programme, Digital FOSS. Also calling for finance mobilization to address the development gaps, he said that the SDG financing gap currently stands at $4 trillion to $7 trillion annually. “But the world is not short on finances, especially when global capital markets are worth $240 trillion,” he said, calling for repurposing international financial institutions to mobilize resources more effectively.
MOHAMMAD YOUSUF ABDULLA MOHAMMAD BASTAKI (United Arab Emirates) said his country is committed to supporting collective action to achieve ambitions and protect gains made in implementing the SDGS, and will host the twenty-eighth UN Climate Change Conference. He noted that it is imperative to cut global emissions by 43 per cent by 2030 and correct financing models, including the loss and damage fund. His Government intends the Conference to be a turning point that marks the transition from ambition to action. The country recently announced completion of the sixth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the largest single-site solar park complex in world, which will have a productive capacity of 5,000 megawatts by 2030 and investment exceeding $13 billion; it further plans to be a leading exporter of hydrogen, with a 25 per cent global share of the market by 2030.
ANA PAULA ZACARIAS (Portugal), associating herself with the European Union, said that her country will be co-facilitating negotiations on disaster risk reduction with Kenya and on South-South cooperation with Morocco. “Portugal will continue supporting the creation of innovative development partnerships in this manner, including through triangular cooperation,” she said, also urging to sustain the political momentum after the UN 2023 Water Conference and the second UN Ocean Conference. “We will spare no effort to ensure the convening of a successful world social summit in 2025 as a driver of sustainable development with tangible results,” she stressed, calling for a global debate that lays the foundations for a new social contract, based on the idea that protection in the fields of health, housing, education and work must be guaranteed to all.
DAMIANO BELEFFI (San Marino), noting that multiple ongoing crises threaten the planet and push developing countries towards the brink, worsened by conflicts and frequent and more intense natural disasters, called for enhanced implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Member States must work together to address such challenges, through the implementation of existing agreements, such as the Paris Agreement on climate change and the Convention on Biodiversity as well as foster a more inclusive and accountable global governance. Sustainable finance by public-private investment and a global financial safety net is required to make it possible for Member States to access funds during crises. Highlighting the links between security challenges and climate change, which affect poor and vulnerable communities, he emphasized that the Security Council must take such factors into account. The risk of instabilities are exacerbated by climate change, through reduced harvests and destroyed infrastructure, he said, calling for ambitious mitigation and adaptation programmes to be put in place, and for the loss and damage fund to be implemented.
MERYEM HAMDOUNI (Morocco), aligning herself with the African Group, the Like-minded Group of Supporters of Middle-Income Countries and the Group of 77, said her State has faced the consequences of the recent earthquake with determination and solidarity and has moved to the relief and reconstruction phase, with a budget of $12 billion over five years. She noted that the Committee’s work is occurring at a critical juncture, with an opportunity to “correct the course for sustainability for people and the planet”. She called for a paradigm shift and reform of the international financial architecture, noting that her country has made progress in health and food sovereignty, infrastructure, the status of women and girls, and water security. Morocco also aims to invest more into renewable energy to achieve 52 per cent of installed electrical capacity by the end 2023. She urged the Committee to take up the strengthening of modalities of South-South and other cooperation.
PETAL GAHLOT (India), noting that the global turmoil has rolled back socioeconomic gains and strained resources for sustainable development, said that the outcomes of the second SDG Summit and high-level discussions on various crucial topics have outlined a blueprint for navigating the future. Highlighting India’s G20 presidency focus on the theme “One World, One Family, One Future”, she stressed that the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member will amplify the voice of the Global South in addressing sustainable development, international financial system reform and debt vulnerabilities within the G20. India has achieved significant progress in reducing multidimensional poverty, lifting 415 million people out of poverty in the last 15 years, she stated, noting an urgent need to learn from each other and support each other as the world is entering the second phase of the 2030 Agenda. Lauding her country’s progress in meeting Paris Agreement commitments, including a net-zero target by 2070, she expressed hope to see developed nations fulfilling climate and SDG finance commitments.
ASBINA MARIN SEVILLA (Venezuela), associating herself with the Group of 77, said that the efforts for development are undermined by the onslaught of the pandemic, generated by the systematic aggression of the United States Government against her country. “A policy of economic terrorism is used against our country that includes 930 so‑called illegal sanctions, through which our sovereign resources have been looted,” she stressed, adding that over $22 billion owned by Venezuela remains frozen in the international financial system. Despite this, the national economy grew 5 per cent in 2021 and 14 per cent in 2022, she said. She reiterated concern about global warming and urged developed countries to fulfil their obligations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
ANA JIMÉNEZ DE LA HOZ (Spain), associating herself with the European Union, emphasized the Committee’s role in translating the political momentum from the SDG Summit into sustainable development work, acknowledging the challenges posed by environmental degradation, climate change, the pandemic and a crisis of trust in the multilateral system. Spain, hosting the fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, aims to advance the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, international financial architecture reform, debt management and resource mobilization for sustainable development. Stressing the importance of not exceeding a 1.5°C global temperature rise, she expressed commitment to phasing out fossil fuels, boosting energy efficiency, and urged for increased ambition for resource mobilization and finance access. She went on to call for full implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, swift enactment of the treaty on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction and appointment of a Special Envoy for water by the Secretary-General.
VLADAMIR KURT SEAN BUDHU (Trinidad and Tobago), associating himself with the Group of 77, the Alliance of Small Island States and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), urged the international community to take urgent steps to support the steadying of markets by transforming commitments into concrete action. He said that his Government had established a national Roadmap to Recovery with three immediate priorities: addressing and mitigating hardship inflicted by COVID-19; increasing economic growth; and laying the foundation for sustained economic recovery. “Greater efforts to scaling up development financing and investment flows to developing countries is crucial in achieving the SDGs,” he stressed, adding that any sustainable recovery effort must also ensure the full and effective implementation of the Paris Agreement. “A reeling global economy and unmitigated climate change has placed least developed countries, landlocked developing countries and small island developing States, like Trinidad and Tobago, trapped in a maze of compound risks and exogenous shocks,” he said.
HIBA JAFAAR ABUBAKR ABUHAJ (Sudan), aligning herself with the Group of 77, the African Group and the Group of Least Developed Countries, cited the unique situation her State faces after 18 years of crises, including accumulated debts and imposed sanctions. Sudan continues to confront significant economic crises due to the regional and global situation, exacerbated by political instability and the suffering of its citizens due to the increased cost of goods and services. She emphasized that rebellions continue in areas of the country, with fighting against the State, which is relying on the unity of its armed forces, fighting to restore the social fabric. Similarly, she stressed that the humanitarian situation is complex due to the widespread destruction of infrastructure, electricity, and water distribution and communication systems, further paralysing health care. She called on friendly countries and humanitarian organizations for assistance, affirming the population’s passion and capacity to restore the country.
MARIE CHANTALE LOUIS-ASTIN (Haiti), stressing the need for global solutions to global crises, said that the pandemic impacted the trade and economy of least developed countries, wiping out gains made in achieving goals set out in the Doha Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries. Special but differentiated treatment for such countries is crucial for their integration into the multilateral trade system, she added. In the post-COVID‑19 context, economies should be rebuilt on a sturdy foundation, to better prepare for a new pandemic. She called on Member States to respect their ODA obligations, and to not impose export restrictions that are incompatible with the rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Over the past 15 years, Haiti has experienced successive shocks, including earthquakes and hurricanes and insecurity, leading to internally displaced persons occupying sites to escape gang violence, she said, noting that it nonetheless maintained contact with the resident coordinator’s office and UNDP for post-COVID‑19 recovery.
KYAW MOE TUN (Myanmar), aligning himself with ASEAN, the Group of Least Developed Countries and the Group of 77, said that both multidimensional crises and climate change impacts pose an enormous challenge to many, especially least developed States. Recalling the illegal military coup in February 2021 and the military junta’s atrocities, he stressed that the lives and well-being of millions of people in Myanmar are now in peril. “Due to the military junta’s atrocities, nearly 2 million people are internally displaced; over 18 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance; and almost half of the population are living under the national poverty line,” he said, highlighting that the National Unity Government is working together with ethnic resistance organizations and other partners to provide necessary humanitarian assistance. He urged the UN and its Member States to not leave the people of Myanmar alone.
CARLA MARIA RODRÍGUEZ MANCIA (Guatemala), aligning herself with the Group of 77 and the Group of Friends of Middle-Income Countries, called for compliance with ODA commitments to provide 0.7 per cent of gross national income. It is further essential to carry out reform of international financial institutions to enhance the capacity of the system, increase the participation of developing countries and modify the incentives so they can access sustainable resources to invest in development. She echoed comments that the current eligibility criteria punish middle-income countries, limiting access to cooperation and sources of financing; it is therefore important to review existing criteria, to go beyond income and reflect multidimensional vulnerabilities. Guatemala is prioritizing food and nutritional security, increasing food production in an efficient, sustainable and environmentally friendly manner — “investing in innovative agricultural technologies, incorporating science and education, as well as cultural pertinence,” she affirmed. She further highlighted the link between international migration and development.
JAMES KARIUKI (United Kingdom) noting with regret that despite some progress, the SDGs are off-track, with targets on climate, environment, gender, poverty reduction and hunger most at risk, he expressed support for the reform of the multilateral development banks, enabling the release of over $200 billion in additional finance over the next 10 years and the creation of a more resilient and sustainable international financial architecture. On climate change, he urged to redouble efforts to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C, cut emissions, transition to renewable energy and protect at least 30 per cent of land and oceans by 2030. Stressing the United Kingdom’s commitment to ensuring science, evidence and data to accelerate the SDGs, he welcomed open and equal science partnerships with developing States and emphasized his country’s continued commitment to achieving progressive outcomes for women and girls.
TAPIWA ROY RUPENDE (Zimbabwe), aligning himself with the Group of 77, the African Group and the Group of Landlocked Developing Countries, called for united efforts to ensure a sustainable and equitable recovery from the pandemic and poly-crisis. The pandemic and financial crises have laid bare gaps in the global system that need to be addressed, he said, pointing to devastating climatic events, limited progress on quality education, gender inequality and lack of technology transfer, among other challenges. In this context, he called for a sustainable recovery through investments in renewable energy and green technologies to combat climate change while creating green jobs. As well, he called for strengthened social safety nets, inclusive and quality education, affordable and accessible health care and halting biodiversity loss, as well as building resilience. His country wishes to align recovery efforts with the SDGs; however, achieving the recently adopted political declaration will be a herculean task, due to unilateral coercive measures, he said, calling for them to be lifted.
DMITRY S. CHUMAKOV (Russian Federation) noted that the request of the Global South countries to strengthen their role in the global governance mechanisms is grounded. He highlighted the opening keynote address by Jayati Ghosh who emphasized that the actual volumes of climate finance and development assistance do not match those declared and who “confirmed, based on FAO [Food and Agriculture Organization] figures, that the food and energy crises of 2022 are not related to the conflict in Ukraine”. He said that Ms. Ghosh blamed transnational corporations, adding: “These same corporations, primarily American, only benefit from the conflict, while their competitors in Europe and poor countries around the world are not receiving Russian grain and energy resources, as well as Russian and Belarusian fertilizers because of sanctions.”
RAWA ZOGHBI (Lebanon), aligning herself with the Group of 77, noted that her country hosts over 1.5 million displaced Syrians, an untenable situation with far- reaching social and economic repercussions, significantly undermining sustainable development. Citing “an unfair global financial system that is short-term, crisis-prone and further exacerbates inequalities”, she called for comprehensive reform of the international financial architecture. She echoed Morocco on behalf of the middle-income countries, calling for metrics that go “beyond GDP [gross domestic product]” and advancing innovative solutions to ensure debt sustainability and effective debt treatment. Again in 2023, Lebanon will count on the international community for the adoption of the resolution entitled “Oil Slick on Lebanese shores”, requesting Israel to assume responsibility for prompt and adequate compensation to cover the costs of repairing the environmental damage caused by the oil spill that polluted its coast.
ARB KAPISYZI (Albania) said that his country shares the sense of urgency to resolve what the United Nations accurately describes as “the greatest crisis in the cost of living in a generation”. Recalling the dramatic global impact of the Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine, he urged to resolve it through concrete action. He also said that his Government had undertaken several initiatives to reach the SDGs, focusing on innovative and citizen-centred public services, the complete recovery and financial consolidation of the energy sector, a reform agenda to encourage investment to increase the economic growth potential and a new approach to integrated water management. “As we anticipate a future decision to join the European Union family, we remain committed to advancing critical domestic reforms,” he stressed.
MARIELA ANGELA CRIADO (Uruguay), aligning herself with the Group of 77 and the Like-Minded Group of Countries Supporters of Middle-Income Countries, underlined the need for a more inclusive, equitable recovery, with strengthened environmental commitments. Uruguay prioritizes achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7, on clean and affordable energy, and Goal 13, on climate action, by stepping up renewables in its energy matrix to 56 per cent in 2022, she said, also underlining its emphasis on environmental sustainability. The twenty-eighth United Nations Climate Change Conference is a crucial opportunity to advance specific adaptation and mitigation measures, she said, calling for the operationalization of the loss and damage fund. Emphasizing her country’s focus on sustainable agriculture to improve food security, lower greenhouse gas emissions and the preservation of biodiversity, she called for a more rules-based equitable trade system, which avoids obstacles such as trade-distorting subsidies.
ANDRÉS EFREN MONTALVO SOSA (Ecuador), aligning himself with the Group of 77 and the Like-Minded Group of Countries Supporters of Middle-Income Countries, called for combating the growing debt crisis, but also rethinking the function of WTO to benefit the Global South. On global warming and the loss of biodiversity, he called for global action, based on common but differentiated responsibilities, not only because it is ethical and fair for future generations, but also because it is economically beneficial. Based on its status as a megadiverse country, responsible for only 0.18 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions, Ecuador is transitioning towards a circular, resilient economy with the Ecuador Zero Carbon Programme. Stressing Ecuador’s commitment to protecting biodiversity, he noted that his country in 2022 created a new marine reserve in the Galapagos Islands called “Hermandad” or “Sisterhood”, which will safeguard them as a natural heritage of humanity.
CAROLYN RODRIGUES-BIRKETT (Guyana), associating herself with the Group of 77, the Alliance of Small Island States and CARICOM, reaffirmed commitment to multilateralism to advance the solutions the world desperately needs. “In the first instance, we must ensure the food security of our global population,” she said, stressing that about 800 million people faced hunger in 2022. She also highlighted the importance of forests in mitigating the effects of climate change and the need for adequate compensation for providing this global good. “Let us not forget that in addition to the transition to clean energy and its associated costs, there are 900 million people without any access to electricity,” she stressed, calling for the achievement of a sustainable and more equal global community.
SAŠA MART (Serbia), underscoring the need for multilateralism as the only viable solution to present challenges, including the pandemic, upheavals and natural hazards, called for comprehensive reforms to the current system. He went on to outline Serbia’s sustainable development priorities, including its National Youth Strategy, as well as its intention to achieve a Gender Equality Index of 71 in the realm of work, closing the wage gap between men and women to 5 per cent by 2030. On science, he pointed out that Serbia is the initiator of the United Nations resolution for the “International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development 2024-2033”, and is fostering interdisciplinary collaboration in critical areas such as medicine, agriculture, industry and the environment. Turning to climate change, he spotlighted the “national determined contribution” his country adopted in 2022 for the period until 2030, by which time it aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 33.3 per cent, compared to 1990 levels.
BAUYRZHAN KERIMKULOV (Kazakhstan), aligning himself with the Group of Landlocked Developing Countries, noted that many challenges that reversed progress towards achieving the 2030 Agenda are transnational in nature and can only be addressed in a spirit of solidarity through integrated multidimensional solutions. Calling for special attention to the needs of geographically disadvantaged countries like his group of countries, he underscored the need for an open, transparent and inclusive multilateral trading system based on the WTO’s principles and rules. On climate change, he warned that Central Asia may experience a 2 to 2.5°C increase and recalled a proposal by Kazakhstan to host a regional climate summit in 2026 under UN auspices. Noting that his country will submit a consensus resolution focusing on international cooperation and coordination for the rehabilitation and economic development of the Semipalatinsk region of Kazakhstan, he invited Member States to support and co-sponsor the resolution.
BADER AZIZ R. M. KH. ALDEHANI (Kuwait), aligning himself with the Group of 77, said the Middle East faces complex challenges, having suffered earthquakes, floods and fires, requiring the support of regional and global partnerships to face transborder issues. Recalling the burning of Kuwait’s oil rigs 33 years ago, he noted that his country has never forgotten the support of friendly States. Kuwait, through its official institutions and the private sector, addresses climate challenges with concrete steps including the inauguration in 2022 of a desalination plant using photovoltaic solar panels and producing 30 megawatts of power. Other projects include the launch of a solar park with a storage capacity of more than 5 gigawatts. Emphasizing that least developed countries still face issues including the repercussions of the pandemic, he recalled that just after its independence in 1961, the country established the Kuwait Fund For Arab Economic Development to provide concessional credit and assistance to “brother countries”.
GLADYS MOKHAWA (Botswana), associating herself with the Group of 77 and the African Group, said that her country wants to ensure that it is not left behind the development agenda. “We endeavour to unleash the full potential of our nation and our people out of poverty and tackle key development challenges such as hunger, health crisis and inequality,” she said, adding that digital technology offers significant opportunities in terms of the SDGs. Scaling up of investment in research and development and enrolment in higher education play a crucial role in recovery efforts, she said, emphasizing that her country cannot do this alone. As the Chair of the Group of Landlocked Developing Countries, she called for greater support, including the bloc’s next conference to be held in Kigali in June 2024.
LUIS FELIPE LLOSA (Peru), aligning himself with the Group of 77 and the Like-Minded Group of Countries Supporters of Middle-Income Countries, said the political declaration adopted at the high-level political forum for sustainable development provides an opportunity to step up action on the SDGs, to ensure no one is left behind. Collaborative and inclusive measures are needed to enhance standards of living. He outlined steps taken by his country to achieve SDGs 1 to 3, including through ensuring 99 per cent of the population is under health insurance coverage, 70 per cent of whom are protected by the national comprehensive plan. On employment, he spotlighted its programme “growth for women”, which has helped 620,000 women. Following the Summit for the Amazon, Peru aims to preserve its biodiversity, land and water, and has planted 5 million trees to this end. He highlighted pre-emptive action, totaling investments of $1 billion, undertaken by his country to tackle the imminent threat posed by the El Niño phenomenon, which is bringing rains and flood to the northern coast of country and droughts to the south.
YANG AISHAH BINTI ADNAN (Malaysia), aligning herself with the Group of 77 and ASEAN, voiced support for reform of the international financial architecture, so that multilateral institutions are made fit for purpose and rooted in the principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Most importantly, it should evolve into a global safety net capable of extending assistance to developing nations facing dire economic challenges, she stressed, noting that the high costs associated with loans from the international financial institutions have become a deterrent for some developing nations, hindering their capacity to invest in sustainable development initiatives. She voiced concern over the suspension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, noting that it not only threatens the stability of the food systems but also puts the livelihoods and well-being of global populations at risk, with particularly severe repercussions for lower-income nations that are already contending with issues of hunger and economic distress.
HUSSEIN ATHMAN KATTANGA (United Republic of Tanzania), associating himself with the Group of 77, the African Group and the Group of Least Developed Countries, said his State presented in July its second voluntary national report, which showed overall significant progress with respect to Sustainable Development Goals 2 to 7. His country is prioritizing investments in the social service sectors, agriculture and agribusiness, value addition and infrastructure. “It is timely now to focus on the reform of the international financial architecture,” he stressed, voicing support for multilateral development bank reform, so that their policies are fit for purpose and promote large-scale SDG-related investments to better address global challenges especially in developing countries. Turning to the climate crisis, he called for urgent and concerted action by all nations to cut greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen mitigation and adaptation measures.
SOPHEA EAT (Cambodia), aligning herself with the Group of 77 and ASEAN, noted that thanks to the Government’s sound policy choices and the prevailing peace, security and political stability, the country has 72.5 per cent of the 193 SDG indicators/sub-indicators well on track, and a projected 5.6 per cent GDP growth in 2023. She is therefore optimistic that Cambodia can move steadily out of the least developed country status into the middle-income country bracket in 2027. However, her country must grow at an average rate of 7 per cent to continue reducing poverty by at least 1 per cent per year. The new Pentagonal Strategy emphasizes five strategic thrusts including developing human capital through education, science and technology, and enhancing economic diversification and competitiveness through improved digital connectivity. Other initiatives include developing the private sector and employment opportunities, enhancing gender equality and advancing the digital economy.
LETICIA MARÍA ZAMORA ZUMBADO (Costa Rica), associating herself with the Group of 77 and the Like-Minded Group of Countries Supporters of Middle-Income Countries, said that her State had called for the necessary reforms and systemic transformations in sustainable development. She urged to reform the international financial system to avoid further overburdening those with high levels of debt and with limited resources and capabilities. “The interconnected crises of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution are not isolated events, but symptoms of development structures and models dissonant with science,” she stressed, adding that Costa Rica and France, as hosts of the third UN Ocean Conference, will seek to bring together diverse actors and mobilize resources and innovations to promote the health, governance and sustainable use of the ocean. She also called for the construction of a strong and resilient social fabric.
Ms. ALSHARBATI (Bahrain), aligning herself with Group of 77, said the pandemic crisis, among others, had impacted many countries’ pursuit of the SDGs. Against this backdrop, she outlined plans undertaken by her country for sustainable development, including its “2030 vision”, which it adopted in 2008, based on the principles of justice, sustainability and competitiveness. Bahrain integrated the SDGs into its Government’s work plans in 2015, she said, highlighting the action paths undertaken as part of its 2023-26 programmes. She went on to highlight international distinctions her country has achieved, including being designated second in the Arab world according to UNDP’s human development index, as well as its achieving first place among countries in the Middle East and North Africa region in the Fraser economic freedom index.
MONTSERRAT GONZÁLEZ CARRILLO (Chile), associating herself with the Group of 77 and the Like-Minded Group of Middle-Income Countries, said that her State has been permanently committed to SDG implementation. “South-South cooperation is a necessary and highly valuable tool to face the challenges we face, arising from shared experiences,” she said, stressing the need to overcome the major obstacles that developing countries face in accessing new technologies and closing digital gaps. She also reaffirmed the principles of the multilateral trading system and reiterated the importance of an open international order based on rules for peace and prosperity. “Likewise, we reaffirm the legitimacy and competence of the United Nations to address this issue,” she said. Calling for addressing climate change with a greater sense of urgency demanded by society, she urged moving towards a circular economy and just energy transition.
Right of Reply
The representative of Armenia, responding to remarks made by Azerbaijan’s delegate, said it is not correct that the discussion of the conflicts’ negative impact on sustainable development is outside the Second Committee’s scope. The 2030 Agenda is crystal clear and notes that sustainable development cannot be realized without peace and security. This reaction shows how Azerbaijan has openly violated international law and international humanitarian law.
The representative of Azerbaijan said that after the 10 November 2020 Trilateral Statement, Armenia illegally kept more than 10,000 armed formations in Azerbaijan’s territory equipped with heavy weaponry, including by “gravely abusing the Lachin corridor” to fuel separatism there. Since August 2022, Azerbaijan has detected and neutralized 3,000 Armenian-manufactured landmines in its sovereign territory, and all counter-terror measures taken were exclusively to neutralize legitimate military targets.
The representative of Armenia said that the Armenians did not leave their homes and homeland voluntarily but were forced to leave, so Azerbaijan bears full responsibility for that.
The representative of Azerbaijan, responding to “groundless” comments by Armenia’s delegate, said that ethnic Armenians are welcome to be part of her country’s Karabakh region; however, they expressed a wish to return to Armenia, and so their voluntary return is being facilitated.