Ban urges ‘Group of 77’ nations to contribute to future development agenda

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called on the bloc of developing countries known as the Group of 77 and China to actively engage in the design of the global development agenda beyond 2015, the target date for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), and share the experiences acquired in attaining these anti-poverty targets.

“The G-77 and China have been working hard to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). There can be no let-up as the 2015 deadline draws near,” Mr. Ban told the group’s annual ministerial meeting, held during the margins of the 67th session of the General Assembly.

“Developing countries have proven their potential for sustained, inclusive and equitable economic growth. Many of your economies are attracting large foreign investment flows. South-South cooperation is flourishing – offering important opportunities for growth.” Mr. Ban said. “We need your experiences, your ideas and your perspectives to succeed.”

The eight MDGs, agreed on by world leaders at a UN summit in 2000, set specific targets on poverty alleviation, education, gender equality, child and maternal health, environmental stability, HIV/AIDS reduction, and a ‘Global Partnership for Development.’

The post-2015 development agenda will be closely linked to the commitments made during the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), Mr. Ban said, and will need to involve not just governments but also members of the private sector, non-governmental organization and other partners to fully achieve its goals.

Partnerships will also be a key element to advance development, and the post-2015 agenda will reflect the need to share responsibilities among all countries, Mr. Ban added.

“We need more solidarity, more compassion, more reaching out to break down barriers and build bridges of trust,” Mr. Ban said. “We must build on the constructive experience we have gained through the MDGs, and we must address other challenges, including the demand for political inclusion and democracy that is ringing loudly across the world.

The UN chief called on the G-77 and China to support the new development agenda and to remain involved across the UN agenda.

“I count on the Group of 77 and China to support this agenda and help us foster a United Nations that can better serve our world,” he said. “Collectively you make your voices heard in virtually all areas of our work.”

The group decided today that Fiji will take over its leadership in 2013, replacing Algeria.