SECOND RESUMED SESSION OF THE FIFTH COMMITTEE

– As delivered –

Statement by H.E. Tijjani Muhammad Bande, President of the 74th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

4 May 2020

Mr. Chair,

Excellencies,

Distinguished Delegates,

I am pleased to join you today in this resumed second session of the Fifth Committee. I congratulate all delegates for their constructive engagement throughout the first resumed session which led to a successful conclusion of its work in March.

Today’s online meeting is demonstrative of how COVID-19 has significantly changed the way we perform our tasks. It has tested our ability to explore and utilize technology to facilitate urgent decisions which guarantee the good functioning of our Organisation throughout this period.

I wish those who are suffering from COVID-19 a swift recovery, while I also condole those who have lost loved ones to pandemic.

Excellencies,

Your Committee has been exemplary in utilizing technology in conducting our business, in light of an unprecedented global crisis. I commend the Chair of the Fifth Committee, Ambassador Mavroyiannis, the Permanent Representative of Cyprus to the United Nations, for his continued leadership in guiding the Fifth Committee to a successful conclusion of the first resumed session. I wish the Chair and his team, as well as members of the Bureau, continued success in steering the Committee towards a timely and positive conclusion of this session.

I recognize the dedicated Secretariat team who continue to work tirelessly to support the Committee. I thank the Secretariat for their dedication as we navigate this new reality.

Excellencies, distinguish delegates,

The Fifth Committee continues to play an integral role in the effective functioning of the United Nations.  The second resumed session will prove crucial as Member States work together to ensure a proper budget allocation to the United Nation peacekeeping operations in all conflict-affected countries.

We must remain committed to ensuring progress throughout every area of our work. As we contend with the novel coronavirus, we also mark the 75^th anniversary of the United Nations. There can be no greater tribute to the founders of our Organisation than to persist and re-commit ourselves, including those set out in Agenda 2030.

As we embark upon the Decade of Action and Delivery to implement the Sustainable Development Goals, we must be mindful of how our decisions impact the work of the United Nations. Our work will shape how the Organisation pursues and achieves the priorities and defined agendas, ensuring that the United Nations is fit-for-purpose. Decisions taken by this Committee have a direct impact on the people we serve.

Therefore, it is paramount that our work concludes on time. I trust that you will continue to support the efforts made by the Chair and the Bureau to adhere to the agreed timeline by concluding all agenda items placed before you.

I urge all delegates to continue your work in a constructive and positive manner. You have in the past demonstrated collegiality, cooperation, compromise and consensus and it is my sincere hope that you will continue to embody these values throughout your negotiations.

I conclude by once again reiterating that my office stands ready to support you in your work throughout this difficult time to ensure success in your work, which will be key to our working towards a better world for all, everyone, everywhere.

I thank you and wish you the very best.