Nordic Statement at the Ambassadorial-level meeting on the Summit of the Future

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Excellencies, Colleagues,

I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Countries, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and my own country Sweden. 

We join others in reiterating our deep appreciation to the co-facilitators Germany and Namibia for their tireless efforts in shepherding this process.

Let me begin by reaffirming the Nordic countries’ strong support for the REV1 and the co-facilitators approach to the third reading. We find the text action- oriented and ambitious. A text fit for leaders.

So, let us maintain this level of ambition as we move on to the next stage in this process. We need to keep the “bigger picture” in mind by showing restraint and not fall into our usual divisions.

A lot is at stake and the Nordic countries support a text that strengthens the UN’s ability to deliver on its mandate. Let us use this opportunity to showcase the importance of an inclusive, equitable and effective multilateral system.

For us, a balance between the three pillars of the UN, as well as the three dimensions of sustainable development, is key for a successful Pact for the Future. Strong commitments on human rights and gender equality, including SRHR, will continue to be important elements. We greatly appreciate the inclusion of commitments to strengthen the human rights pillar of the UN in REV1. These commitments go hand-in-hand with addressing climate change and achieving the SDGs. The interlinkages are clear.

We welcome the focus on financing for development and proposals on making the international financial architecture more efficient and fit for purpose. The Nordic countries are proud to contribute to global development cooperation and support efforts that seek to make the system more well-suited for the challenges of the 21st century.

Adequate, sustainable, flexible and predictable financing for peacebuilding is also crucial. We will continue to support the link to the New Agenda for Peace, including proposals on preventive diplomacy and national prevention strategies.

Realizing the ambitions for a stronger multilateral system that delivers for all, including those furthest behind requires strong partnerships. We appreciate the emphasis on inclusivity and a multistakeholder approach to delivering on the visions and commitments of the Pact.

To conclude, we put our complete trust in the co-facilitators in presenting a REV2 that serves as the basis for further discussions and look forward to continuing to engage constructively throughout the process.

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I also wish to say a few words in my national capacity on the Global Digital Compact, that I co-facilitate together with Ambassador Chola Milambo, Permanent Representative of Zambia.

We are delighted to report the successful completion of the reading of the first revision on June 20. We are grateful to Member States for their productive engagement and collaborative spirit throughout this process. Following completion of the reading, we facilitated a virtual multistakeholder consultation with over 400 participants.

The invaluable input from these consultations and readings informed our efforts as we worked hard on the Rev 2, as circulated yesterday. We will present Rev 2 on Monday, July 1, from 10 am to 1 pm, at the level of permanent representatives in the Trusteeship Council. We welcome remarks on issues of strategic importance.

We aim to bring the negotiation to a conclusion before the High-Level Political Forum. We remain committed to a transparent and inclusive process, as well as an ambitious and action-oriented Global Digital Compact. Your continued support is crucial in realizing this vision and we count on your active participation.

Thank you.