Statement by Ms. Julieta Tavakalyan, Third Secretary of the Permanent Mission of Armenia, at the UNGA80 Second Committee agenda items “Operational Activities for Development”, “Countries in Special Situations”

08 October, 2025

Madam Chair,

At the outset, let me thank the distinguished speakers for presenting the relevant reports.

Regarding agenda item 21, Armenia attaches great importance to strengthening the responsiveness, coherence, and alignment of the UN development system with national plans and priorities. The system must adopt a balanced approach—combining sound policy advice with efforts to foster partnerships, expand access to science, technology and innovation, and promote sustainable infrastructure development. Equally important is the operationalization of the humanitarian-development-peace nexus, especially in the most fragile settings, to ensure that immediate needs of the most vulnerable are met while laying the foundations for long-term stability and resilience.

We recognize the pivotal role of the Resident Coordinator system in enhancing coordination across UN country teams, ensuring accountability, and tailoring their activities to national contexts. RSs are uniquely well positioned to help Governments in fostering inclusive engagement with diverse stakeholders and mobilizing resources to accelerate progress in achieving the SDGs. Finally, the reforms in the RC funding model remain essential to secure predictable and sustainable financing, ensuring that efficiency gains do not come at the expense of effective delivery.

Regarding item 23, Armenia underlines that countries in special situations face disproportionate burdens in achieving their development priorities due to structural vulnerabilities and negative implications of global crises, impeding their ability to fully integrate into global trade, diversify economies, and attract much-needed investments. In this regard, Armenia emphasizes the importance of timely implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action, including through scaled-up financing and strengthened global partnerships. Equally important is the full implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and the elaboration of a Work Programme on Transit for LLDCs, which are vital in reducing trade costs and enhancing the effective participation of LLDCs in international trade.

For over three decades, closed borders to the East and West have posed a serious impediment to Armenia’s sustainable development. To overcome this barrier, the Armenia has advanced the ‘Crossroads of Peace’ initiative, aimed at establishing inclusive, non-discriminatory, and equitable transport and trade connectivity—contributing not only to accelerated economic growth but also to peace and stability across the region. Armenia stands ready to cooperate with all interested regional and international stakeholders to promote multidimensional connectivity in the South Caucasus, and we invite partners to support the implementation of the “Crossroads of Peace” initiative and its integral component, the “TRIPP Connectivity Project”.

In conclusion, let me reiterate Armenia’s strong support for OHRLLS and the distinguished High-Representative in advancing initiatives that amplify the collective voice of LLDCs and foster effective international cooperation.

I thank you.

MFA RA
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