Mr. President,
Excellencies,

1. The Lao PDR aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the Group of 77 and China and ASEAN and wishes to make the following remarks in its national capacity.

2. With only five years remaining until the target date of the 2030 Agenda, the world stands at a decisive moment. As highlighted in the Secretary-General’s SDG progress report, global implementation remains significantly off track. Progress has been uneven and insufficient, with several targets stagnating or regressing amid compounded global challenges.

3. At the national level, the Lao PDR remains firmly committed to implementing the 2030 Agenda through its full integration into successive National Socio-Economic Development Plans. Despite a challenging external environment, the Government continues to pursue macroeconomic stability while advancing inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development.

4. Notable progress has been made, which includes expansion of access to basic services, ongoing investments in transport connectivity, digital infrastructure, and enhanced regional integration. These developments demonstrate that sustained policy commitment, supported by effective partnerships, can yield tangible and meaningful progress.

5. At the same time, significant challenges persist. Accelerated efforts are required to improve food security and nutrition, quality education, healthcare, water and sanitation, sustainable industrialization, and innovation. Closing
these gaps will require sustained investment in human capital, productive capacities, and climate resilience, underpinned by reliable data systems and evidence-based policymaking to ensure effective implementation and
monitoring.

6. Looking ahead, the Lao PDR will present its Fourth Voluntary National Review (VNR4) at the 2027 HLPF. For the first time, this will include a Voluntary Local Review (VLR) component to better reflect sub-national
progress and local realities. The report will provide a comprehensive assessment of achievements, remaining challenges, and transformative policy solutions.

7. In conclusion, as preparations advance toward the 2027 SDG Summit, the Lao PDR calls for renewed global solidarity and a more responsive international development architecture that better addresses the needs and vulnerabilities of developing countries. Through strengthened partnerships and effective multilateralism, the international community can accelerate transformative action and deliver on the promise of the 2030 Agenda, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Thank you.