Co-Chairs,

China aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the G77 and China. I thank the Co-Chairs for their tireless efforts in advancing the mandate implementation review. The circulation of the zero draft shows that mandate implementation review has entered a substantive stage. We hope that, under the Co-Chairs’leadership, the Working Group will forge consensus and advance the reform in a pragmatic and results-oriented manner. I would like to emphasize three points:

First, the reform must reflect the central role of Member States. This zero draft should reflect this principle more concretely. The working methods should be inclusive and transparent, all Member States should be able to participate on an equal and in-depth basis, and the outcome document should be adopted by consensus. 

The respective roles and responsibilities of the Secretariat and Member States must be clearly defined and sequenced. The Secretary-General should first present concrete proposals within a specified time frame. After that, Member States should discuss those proposals on the appropriate platforms and make decisions accordingly.

Second, reform measures must remain true to the original purpose of the UN80 Initiative. Addressing the duplication of mechanisms is a key focus of the reform, and the Working Group should avoid such problems from arising within the reform process itself. 

This Working Group is not GA Revitalization, nor should it interfere with the work of the Fifth Committee, the Security Council, or other bodies.

Third, the Working Group should focus on resolving issues within the specified time frame by establishing clear, time-bound objectives. Specifically, this entails: first, the Secretary-General putting forward concrete recommendations; second, Member States engaging in discussions on that basis; third, Member States making decisions on how to enhance quality and efficiency and improve mandate delivery and implementation; and finally, avoiding past learned lessons.

Throughout this process, full consideration should be given to the significant needs of developing countries, and reform measures should avoid having adverse impacts on mandate implementation in the development field. All comments and proposals should be fully taken on board.

Co-Chairs,

China will continue to participate constructively in the discussions of the Working Group, and to work together with other Member States and the Secretariat to deliver visible reform outcomes, safeguard the common interests of all Member States, and uphold the credibility and authority of the United Nations.

Thank you.