Distinguished co-facilitators,
Excellencies and colleagues,
I would like to thank the co-facilitators for outlining a clear and inclusive roadmap for the WSIS+20 review process and for convening this first preparatory meeting.
We reaffirm that the vision set out in the Geneva Declaration of Principles to build a people-centered, inclusive and development-oriented Information Society, remains fully relevant. The outcome documents of both phases of the WSIS continue to provide a comprehensive framework that should be reaffirmed and fully implemented.
Despite the progress made since WSIS, the digital divide remains wide and, in some cases, is even deepening. Bridging this divide must, therefore, remain at the center of all efforts. We call for concrete commitments in the WSIS+20 outcome on technology transfer, capacity-building and financial support for developing countries.
The review outcome must address the structural barriers that continue to hinder equitable ICT development. In addition, we reiterate that unilateral coercive measures, including those targeting telecommunications and digital infrastructure, undermine the development of ICT capacities in affected countries. These practices run counter to the WSIS vision and must be rejected in the review outcome.
The Global Digital Compact does not replace the results of the World Summit on the Information Society. It constitutes a further effort to achieve the goals proposed at the WSIS. The review should look at how to reconcile both processes.
We do not favor the creation of new mechanisms or processes for the implementation and follow-up of WSIS and the Global Digital Compact. The multiplication of forums risks diluting participation and overburdening the capacities of many developing countries. Instead, we emphasize the importance of preserving and enhancing the existing mechanisms established by the Tunis Agenda, which could be used for the GDC as well.
Furthermore, the existing processes and forums of the WSIS implementation and follow-up mechanism at the international level should continue and the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) should continue the annual review of the follow-up of the implementation of WSIS outcomes.
The General Assembly, as the most inclusive body of the United Nations, should remain in charge of the overall review of the outcomes of the WSIS process. It should continue to provide the political guidance necessary to achieve its vision.
Finally, we stress the importance of ensuring that the WSIS+20 review process is inclusive, transparent, and member states-driven. We stand ready to work with all delegations to ensure that the outcome reflects a fair, inclusive, and development-oriented vision of the digital future.
Thank you.