AS DELIVERED

Thank you, Madam Chair.

The United States would like to thank Mr. Chandru Ramanathan, Acting Controller of the OPPBA, and Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, Chair of the ACABQ, for their respective reports.

By its resolution 69/274, the General Assembly decided that the UN headquarters in New York would implement flexible workplace arrangements. My delegation notes with appreciation the participation of those Offices throughout the Organization who have already transitioned into new modes of working as a result of the implementation of flexible workplace arrangements and the UN leadership for ensuring this transformation. We are encouraged to see that client feedback remains an integral part of the process including dissemination of best practices, and that the project team continues to address any challenges in a timely and comprehensive fashion.

Madam Chair, the United States remains a strong supporter of flexible workplace arrangements. While the investment to date has been significant, the benefits have thus far outweighed our initial investment. This includes implementing efficiencies and maximizing the utilization of space in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

Madam Chair, the United States also remains committed to the implementation of the flexible workplace at United Nations Headquarters as a means to bringing the UN closer to the 21st century by accommodating smart and flexible work arrangements.

Thank you.

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