Mr. Chair,
Excellencies,

1. The Lao PDR aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the Philippines on behalf of ASEAN.

2. At the outset, my delegation expresses our sincere appreciation to Uruguay for its commendable leadership as Chair of the Group of 77 and China and congratulates Rwanda on assuming the Chairmanship for 2027.

3. We meet amid profound global uncertainty—marked by geopolitical tensions, climate change, and widening inequalities that place unprecedented pressure on developing countries. Against this backdrop, the Lao PDR firmly believes that an inclusive, equitable multilateralism, with the United Nations at its core, remains indispensable.

4. The Global South must be an active shaper of global solutions. Greater voice, representation, and participation for developing countries are essential. We support urgent efforts to reform the international financial architecture to make it more representative and fit for purpose.

Mr. Chair,

5. With constrained fiscal space and growing climate risks, the Seville Commitment provides a vital framework to translate multilateral commitments into concrete action, particularly for vulnerable groups like LDCs, LLDCs, and
SIDS.

6. We underscore South-South and Triangular Cooperation, grounded in national ownership and mutual benefit, as essential complements to global development assistance.

7. In addition, the Lao PDR supports the UN80 Initiative, which remains Member State-driven, transparent, and guided by intergovernmental mandates to advance sustainable development.

8. In conclusion, the Lao PDR remains fully committed to working with the G77 and China to strengthen the multilateral system that delivers for the Global South.

I thank you.