STATEMENT BY AFRICAN GROUP CHAIR H. E. Osama Abdel Khalek
PERMENANT REPRESENTATIVE OF EGYPT TO THE UN
NEW YORK, 3RD FEBUARY 2025
Mr. Chair,
Excellencies,
Distinguished Delegates,
1. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the African Group.
2. At the outset, I would like to extend our congratulations to the newly elected bureau. Your leadership and dedication are vital to guiding our collective efforts towards achieving a fair and equitable global tax system. We look forward to working closely with you and supporting your endeavors in this momentous journey.
3. The African Group views this process as a foundation for addressing the systemic inequities in international tax governance. We recognize the significant role that fair and effective tax systems play in mobilizing domestic resources for sustainable development. By establishing a strong framework convention for international tax cooperation, we ensure that all countries, especially those in Africa and the global south, can generate the necessary revenues to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
4. It is imperative that we adhere to the timeline set out for this process in the adopted terms of reference and refrain from attempts to drag the process on. I reiterate the commitment of the African Group to completing the work of the Committee and submitting the final text of the framework convention and of the two early protocols to the General Assembly for its consideration in the first quarter of its eighty-second session. While we always aim for consensus, we remain dedicated to completing the tasks within the allocated timeframe.
5. As we engage in these important discussions, the African Group commits to participating in a transparent, open, and honest manner. We believe that this approach is essential for fostering meaningful outcomes and encourage all delegations to adopt a similar spirit of cooperation and transparency.
6. We extend our appreciation to the UN and all Member States for recognizing the importance of this initiative and for taking decisive action towards its realization, including through the adoption of the terms of reference last August as a major milestone in our collective efforts in this regard. It underscores the collective will of the majority towards fostering justice and equity in global tax policy and represents a shift towards a more inclusive global dialogue, advocating for every voice to be heard.
7. In conclusion, the African Group reiterates its commitment to this process and looks forward to constructive and fruitful negotiations in an open and transparent manner. It is only through collective effort and genuine dialogue that we can overcome the challenges and seize the opportunities laid out by achieving the UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation for a fair and equitable international tax system that benefits all.
I thank you.
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