Mr. Chair,

1. My delegation aligns itself with the statements made by the distinguished representatives of Cuba, the Philippines, Nepal, and Botswana on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, ASEAN, LDCs, and LLDCs respectively.
2. According to the most recent report, we are deeply concerned by an alarming signal that only 15% of the SDG targets are on track. It is evident that, among contributing factors, one of the pivotal shortcomings is the inadequate mobilization of resources required to overcome the significant development challenges we face. In this regard, we refer to (and support) the call by the Secretary General for fundamental reforms of the international financial architecture and global institutions. This measure should be taken to address financing injustices and create a more equitable and functional global financial system. Also, supported by the proposed SDG Stimulus, it will surely assist in providing affordable long-term financing and expanding contingency financing for countries in pressing need.

3. However, irrespective commitments made towards financing for sustainable development, there remains doubt in translating them into actionable steps that can make a difference in the acceleration of the SDGs implementation. In this connection, we support a robust call for turning financing frameworks into action. This diverse undertaking requires concerted effort from all stakeholders to bridge the gap between policies, strategies, and implementation to ensure that SDG financing is available.
4. While addressing the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic in the last few years, we have witnessed that the global economic downturn has made our financial capacity become increasingly more constrained. This financial limitation makes it more challenging for developing countries to allocate the necessary resources to critical areas for sustainable development. In addition to the accelerating negative impacts of climate change, our country continues to struggle with limited technical capacity and complex climate finance options, making it difficult to navigate.

Mr. Chair,

5. The SDGs are not just global development goals, but for the Lao PDR, they are our national commitment. In addition to the 17 SDGs, the Lao PDR has adopted SDG18 entitled “Lives safe from unexploded ordnance (UXO)”, based on its particular development challenge. Although most of its indicators have advanced to different degrees, the UXO remains a threat to our national development and poses an obstacle to other SDGs. We therefore take this opportunity to call for continued support and assistance from the international community to address this prolonged and challenging task.
6. For the remainder of the SDGs, their integration into our national strategies signifies our unwavering dedication. Despite the efforts made, the progress made remains less than desirable as many have stagnated or regressed. Currently, the Lao Government is preparing its third Voluntary National Review to be presented at the 2024 High-Level Political Forum. Towards this end, there is a need to conduct track analysis for selected SDGs to identify what needs more attention and support, taking into account limited resources we have. In addition, the Lao Government has taken various measures, including development of a Financing Strategy as part of the Integrated National Financing Framework with a view to building a more resilient national financing architecture as well as opening a window of opportunity to meet the financing needs.

Mr. Chair,

7. With a framework in place, we still need additional support and cooperation from our development partners to implement prioritized actions, which include finding a sustainable solution to our economic and financial challenges that takes into account our specific context and needs and aligns with our national agenda and frameworks.
8. To conclude, my delegation would like to take this opportunity to echo the call for the international community to fulfill the commitments made by developed countries to support countries in special situations namely LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS to advance the SDG implementation and achieve their development objective so that no countries will be left behind. Thank you for your attention.