The G77 and China emphasizes that whereas the format and the concise nature of the Rev1 was highly appreciated, it is extremely important that we focus on the deliverables from the Pact. Cognizant that the main purpose of the Summit has always been to turbocharge the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and achievement of all SDGs in the remaining six years, it is insufficient to simply have a positive narrative for the achievement of sustainable development.

We need to build upon and move beyond the SDG Summit, clearly reaffirming quintessential principles such as those of the Rio Declaration.

In fact!

We need concrete deliverables on actions that accelerate the implementation of the SDGs, particularly in developing countries through the provision of adequate means of implementation out of this process, otherwise there might not be much of a difference between this and other Summits. We call for urgent fulfillment of all previous commitments as well as new commitments by the international community to support developing countries in implementing the 2030 Agenda.

While we see that in some of the areas of the Rev1 there are concrete deliverables, when it comes to sustainable development, financing for development, reform of the International Financial Architecture, including the IFIs and the global debt architecture, what we have observed during the process is essentially positive encouragements to elevate the ambition while simultaneously removing and diluting concrete deliverables on these matters, as well as excessive and unprecedented caveats and limitations being introduced on the role of the UN in global economic governance.

Excellencies,

The window of opportunity to achieve all the SDGs is running out. Therefore, we cannot afford to conclude this process without clear and impactful deliverables to materialize the aspirations of our peoples that represent around 80% of the world population. We believe that this is a legitimate obligation that requires global attention and support.

Regarding the proposed areas of discussion in the interactive dialogues, we note the efforts to try to attain a form of balance among the chapters of the pact, however trying to merge the aspects of two chapters as seen in the proposed topic of discussion of the second interactive dialogue might not give both aspects sufficient and due consideration.

The G77 and China reaffirms its commitment to constructive engagement in this very important intergovernmental process by focusing on key priorities. We look forward to reaching a concise, action-oriented and ambitious outcome agreed by consensus through intergovernmental negotiations that will turbocharge the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and achievement of the SDGs.

Thank you.

The group expresses gratitude to you your excellency Ambassador Ivan Šimonović, the vice President of ECOSOC and chair of this year's Humanitarian Affairs Segment along with the Bureau and the Secretariat for convening this important event.

The challenges we face are profound and multifaceted, exacerbated by conflicts, natural disasters, and climate change among others. These crises do not discriminate; they affect the most vulnerable among us disproportionately, including women, children, and those in vulnerable situations. The global humanitarian overview estimates that nearly 300 million people around the world will need humanitarian assistance which amounts to $46.6 Million, due to armed conflicts, the adverse impacts of climate change and other drivers.

Excellencies,

As we convene for this event, it is imperative that we reaffirm our commitment to the principles of humanitarian assistance, of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence. These principles must guide our actions as we strive to alleviate suffering and uphold the dignity of all individuals affected by humanitarian emergencies.

This year's theme "Putting humanity first in the face of conflicts and climate change: Strengthening humanitarian assistance and respect for international humanitarian law, and promoting effectiveness, innovation and partnerships" emphasizes the critical importance of prioritizing humanity amidst global challenges like armed conflicts and humanitarian emergencies. It underscores the need to enhance the provision of humanitarian assistance, uphold international humanitarian law, and foster international cooperation towards effectiveness, innovation, and partnerships in addressing these complex issues.

We must strengthen international cooperation and solidarity to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those in need swiftly and effectively. This requires not only financial resources but also political will and a commitment to respect international humanitarian law. The group urges all states, particularly developed countries, to enhance and scale up their financial contributions to humanitarian response plans and calls upon all stakeholders to fulfill their pledges for humanitarian financing to ensure a stronger international response to growing humanitarian needs.

Moreover, we must address the root causes of humanitarian crises, including poverty and inequality. Sustainable development and conflict prevention are essential components of our efforts to build resilience and reduce vulnerability, in addition to investing in the strengthening of state institutions to ensure long-term stability.

Excellencies,

In conclusion, let us seize this opportunity to renew our resolve and redouble our efforts to protect the most vulnerable and ensure the full enjoyment of the human rights and dignity of every human being. By working together with determination and compassion, we can make meaningful progress towards a more just and humane world.

I thank you for your attention.

The Group of 77 and China welcomes the convening of the organizational meeting, and congratulates both co-chairs for their appointment as Co-Chairs of the Preparatory Commission. The Co-Chairs have the full support of the Group, and we have complete trust in their ability to lead us all effectively and efficiently through the many items that we will be discussing.

The work of the Preparatory Commission will be vital to ensuring the entry into force of the BBNJ Agreement; its future implementation; and, perhaps most importantly, ensuring that all the substantive rights and obligations laid out in the Agreement can become a true reality with all due haste.

At this initial juncture, allow me to highlight three points.

First, the Group reiterates and underlines the vital importance of ensuring the attendance of delegates from all Member States at each stage of the Preparatory Commission. Each and every delegation plays a key role for coordination and future implementation of the Agreement. The Group thanks all contributors to the voluntary trust fund. The Group also encourages further contributions to the Trust Fund to ensure the utmost inclusivity and support for developing countries, and to facilitate the attendance of delegations of these developing countries at the Preparatory Commission. Without the presence of delegations from the Group, the goals of the Commission cannot be fulfilled.

Second, the Group reiterates that any and all capacity building and technical assistance activities that are to be provided by the United Nations relating to the entry into force and implementation of the Agreement must be based on and responsive to the needs of developing States. Member States are best placed to know the most applicable approaches and activities that would best support these goals. The Group will seek this issue to be discussed within the agenda of the Organizational Meeting.

Finally, the Group reminds delegations that the rationale for the creation of the Preparatory Commission - namely to prepare for the entry into force of the Agreement and to prepare for the convening of the first Conference of the Parties - is important for ensuring the effective implementation of the Agreement in the future. This rationale must remain at the forefront of our discussions both throughout this Organizational Meeting and also throughout the Commission itself.

The Group wishes to reiterate its thanks to all delegations for their continued constructive engagement on the path to the fullest achievements that we all worked so hard on in this Agreement.

I thank you.