Thank you very much, Madam Ambassador. May I also extend my appreciation to all distinguished participants.
Thank you for allowing me to come this morning as you begin this short preparatory period ahead of the seventh United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) with a focus on resolutions a key outcome of every UNEA. In this context, let me stress that it is, of course, well understood that resolutions are formulated and presented by Member States. And I am of course delighted to be here this morning as you begin the resolutions journey for UNEA-7.
Member States decided, following UNEA-6, to draw lessons learned from the process. I undertook a parallel lessons learned journey in the Fall of last year during which I had the privilege to hear the thoughts and insights from Permanent Representatives to UNEP. These elements are reflected in Part 1 of the EDs report, issued earlier this year. One of the issues on which Permanent Representatives reflected and indeed on which we too at UNEP have reflected was the issue of the UNEP Technical Notes which we prepare to accompany each draft resolution for your reference and consideration, as appropriate.
These technical notes are prepared by UNEP and it is our hope that they help contextualize the setting into which the draft resolution falls. At this point, let me once again underline that the choice and content of resolutions are entirely, solely and only the prerogative of you, Member States.
