New York, 9 October 2026

Madam Chair,  

Today’s debate is an opportunity to recognise and address the unique and persistent vulnerabilities that put the least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), and small island developing States (SIDS) at greater risk of lagging behind in the pursuit of sustainable development. Each of these groups of countries adopted a programme of action, reflecting both their particular circumstances and their shared determination to advance sustainable development. However, the gap between aspiration and delivery continues to widen.  

Economic pressures, rising debt, climate change and conflict are among the crises pushing sustainable development out of reach for so many countries. For countries in special situations, these pressures are often intensified by structural vulnerabilities that are beyond their control. In this regard, my Delegation would like to offer the following reflections.  

Firstly, access to financial and technological resources is essential. Countries in special situations must have the means to invest in their development, strengthen their resilience, and respond to emerging crises. This requires greater access to concessional financing; addressing unsustainable debt burdens, including through debt cancellation and technology transfer.  

Secondly, we must place people at the centre of our efforts. The measure of development is not simply economic growth, but whether the inherent God-given dignity of each person is recognised by providing the conditions necessary for them to flourish. Investments in healthcare, education, decent work and social protection systems are therefore indispensable. Ultimately, development must serve the human person and the common good, particularly where structural vulnerabilities place communities at greater risk.

Finally, it is important to underscore that solidarity is both a principle and a virtue. “As a principle, it expresses the objective order of relationships among individuals, groups and peoples, pointing to an awareness of interdependence whereby the good of each person depends on the good of others. As a virtue, it requires a ‘firm and preserving determination’ to strive for the common good, with particular attention to those most in need.”[1]

Solidarity should indeed be embraced as both a principle and a virtue, recognising the unique vulnerabilities of countries in special situations and responding accordingly.

I thank you, Madam Chair.

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[1] Pope Leo XIV, Encyclical Letter, Magnifica Humanitas, 75.