High-level segment of the 70th Session of the UNECE

18 April, 2023

Statement

At the High-level segment of the 70^th Session of the UN Economic Commission for Europe

Held under the theme “Digital and Green Transformations for Sustainable Development in the region of the Economic Commission for Europe”

Delivered by Ambassador Andranik Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative of Armenia

Madam Chairperson,

Madam Executive Secretary,

Excellences, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a great pleasure and honor to address the High-level segment of 70^th Session of the UN Economic Commission for Europe. This anniversary offers an ample opportunity to renew our common pledge for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

The meaningful progress in this regard is imminent, as we approach the mid-point of the Decade of Action. However, it remains a daunting task in the face of the multiple global challenges, including the devastating consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts, wars, crises and emergency situations, surging inflation and public debt.

We took careful note of the UNECE report, which provides us with a comprehensive data and analysis on the progress towards the implementation of SDGs. We also appreciate the recommendations contained in the report aimed at formulating a better response to our most pressing needs and priorities.

Madam Chairperson,

The existing global challenges have been further exacerbated for my country by the large-scale aggression of Azerbaijan against Nagorno-Karabakh committed in the midst of global pandemic, and the subsequent unprovoked and unjustified encroachments against the territorial integrity of Armenia, which left thousands of casualties, mass-displacement and destruction of critical infrastructure.

Today, the humanitarian situation in our region remains extremely dire. We are already in the fifth month of the illegal blockade of the Lachin corridor by Azerbaijan, the only lifeline that connects Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia and the outside world. Despite the calls from international community to restore the unimpeded movement alongside the Corridor, and most notably, the Order of the ICJ, Azerbaijan continues this inhumane siege infringing upon a number of human rights of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Madam Chairperson,

Despite multifaceted challenges, the Government of Armenia has been taking active measures in implementation of the SDGs, including through their incorporation in national strategies, reforms and action plans. The UNECE has been a valuable and reliable partner in this endeavor.

In order to ensure transition towards greener and more resilient economy, Armenia has embraced an ambitious reform agenda that includes the promotion of circular economy principles and their mainstreaming in business strategies. In this regard, the Second environmental performance review conducted by the UNECE and its recommendations are instrumental in identifying key opportunities to improve environmental sustainability across all sectors.

Armenia also closely cooperates with the UNECE in developing digital technologies as means to accelerate the achievement of SDGs. We are pleased to announce that the High-level Launch of the UNECE Innovation for Sustainable Development Review of Armenia will take place in June in Yerevan.

I would like to conclude by reaffirming Armenia’s commitment to the strong multilateral cooperation for development agenda and the effective cooperation with all stakeholders in accelerating the implementation of SDGs.

I thank you.

MFA RA
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