GROUP OF 77
NAIROBI

Statement by H.E. Mr. Martin Gómez Bustillo, Ambassador of the Argentine Republic to the Republic of Kenya, and Permanent Representative to UNEP, UN-HABITAT and UNON, Chairperson of the Group of 77, Nairobi Chapter, at the Handover Ceremony of the Chairmanship of the Group of 77 (Nairobi, 2 December 2016)

Excellencies, Dear Guests,

It is an honour to address you on the occasion of the conclusion of Argentina's Chairing of the Group of 77 and China, Nairobi Chapter. I wish to convey my Government's sincere gratitude to all Members of the Group for the support, guidance and assistance accorded to our delegation during our tenure.

I would like to express our deep gratitude to the Regional Groups (Africa, Asia-Pacific, Arab Group and GRULAC) for their encouragement and comprehension.

I would also like to take this opportunity to pay a special tribute to the G77 Secretariat for its support and guidance.

Last but not least, I wish to thank to UNON, UNEP and UN-HABITAT as well as the wider United Nations System for their continued valuable support to the Group.

Excellencies,

Over the last twelve months, we as Member States have negotiated and agreed on significant outcomes which will guide our economic, social and environmental development in the context of the promotion of sustainable human settlements and the preservation of the environment.

In all these processes, the Group of 77 and China played a crucial role in pursuing the interests of the millions of people living in developing countries. In this regard, it must be recognized the collective work of the Group here in Nairobi.

We are convinced that the firm commitment of the Group to work closely with all members, despite the differences that exist among ourselves, has not only enhanced our individual capacities in tackling common emerging challenges, but also revitalised the global partnership for sustainable development.

The greatest strength and bargaining power of the Group of 77 and China lies in our ability to maintain and negotiate as a united front. We should continue doing our utmost to maintain and promote our "unity in diversity" in pursuing vigorously our common cause of sustainable development in a world where no one is left behind.

Excellencies and Distinguish Guests,

I have the honour and pleasure to hand-over the Chairmanship to His Excellency Raza Bashir Tarar, High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.We wish Pakistan great success in leading the Group in 2017 and assure you of Argentina's continuing support during your tenure.

Thank you.