Mr. President,

Madame High Commissioner,

I have the honor to deliver a statement on behalf of the group of Like Minded Countries. We commend Madame High Commissioner, since she took office one year ago, for promoting dialogue and cooperation, and supporting the advancement of human rights in a balanced way.

Today, given growing uncertainty and instability in the world, in particular rising unilateralism and protectionism and greater global challenge facing mankind, multilateralism is more imperative than ever. The Like Minded Countries stand ready to work with other parties to uphold multilateralism and advocate dialogue and cooperation. We have the following expectations for Madame High Commissioner and the OHCHR:

First, uphold the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, and work consistently in an impartial, objective, constructive and non-selective manner. The politicization of human rights agenda and double standards should be avoided.

Second, promote dialogue and cooperation among the parties and oppose naming and shaming and public exertion of pressure.

Third, increase investment in economic, social, cultural rights and the right to development, highlight the role of development in promoting and protecting human rights, and make greater efforts to tackle racism, racial discrimination and hate speech.

Fourth, respect the development path independently chosen by a country, recognize the progress and efforts of states in the field of human rights.

We will continue to support Madame High Commissioner and the OHCHR in their work in accordance with their mandate, with a view to achieving the healthy development of the international human rights cause.

Thank you, Mr. President and Madame High Commissioner.