Permanent Mission of India
New York

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Operational Activities for Development Segment: Dialogue with H.E. Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary General, Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group

Statement by Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, Permanent Representative

1 June 2026

Mr. Vice-President,

We thank the Deputy Secretary-General for her leadership and for the report of the Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group.

The report provides a useful overview of the progress made by the Resident Coordinator system over the past year.

Allow me to make four brief observations.

First, India continues to support a strong and effective development system with the Resident Coordinator system serving as an important coordination mechanism. We note the positive feedback reflected in the report.  We also recognize the contribution of Resident Coordinators in facilitating integrated policy support, partnerships, and coordination across the UN system in support of national priorities.

Second, as noted by Uruguay as Chair of the G-77 and China  on recalibration of the Resident Coordinator system, it is important that all proposals remain firmly anchored in General Assembly mandates, particularly resolution 72/279 and subsequent QCPR resolutions. Any proposal on regional and country level restructuring should demonstrably strengthen the UN development system’s capacity to support Member States on the development pillar, including poverty eradication, energy transition, use of technologies like Artificial Intelligence, etc. As in the past, we call for risk assessments and ways to address such risks to enable Member States in making informed decisions.

Third, we agree that national ownership must remain the central organising principle of the UN development system. The report rightly notes that Resident Coordinators derive their value from aligning UN support behind national priorities and development plans. Cooperation Frameworks must continue to be driven by host government priorities, national circumstances and development strategies. There can be no one-size-fits-all approach.

Fourth, we note with interest the report's emphasis on strengthening capacities in areas such as data, digitalisation, innovation and financing for development. These are increasingly important enablers of sustainable development.

Chair,

We also take note of the continuing discussion on the funding model of the Resident Coordinator system. Any consideration of financing arrangements should be accompanied by continued efforts to improve efficiency, transparency, accountability and value for money. As Member States prepare for the forthcoming review of the RC system funding model, it will be important to have a comprehensive assessment of both the costs and the demonstrated development impact of the system.

In conclusion, India remains committed to a strong, effective and development-oriented United Nations. We appreciate the important role played by development coordinators in supporting national development efforts and look forward to constructive discussions on ensuring that the system remains responsive to the needs and priorities of Member States.

I thank you.

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