Second Committee Statement on Agenda Item 24 “International Tea Day”

Dina Schorr
Adviser
U.S. Mission to the United Nations
New York, New York
November 26, 2019

AS DELIVERED

Thank you, Chair.

During these negotiations, we have been clear about our issues regarding this text.  However, regretfully the United States cannot join consensus on this text due to language contained in preambular paragraph 4, which elevates the domestic policy rhetoric of a single Member State.  None of us should support incorporating language targeting a domestic political audience into multilateral documents.  Because this political language is included in these paragraphs, this agenda item continues to undermine the consensus-based work of the Second Committee and through this, our ability to collectively achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

In addition, in resolution texts, the United States believes it is appropriate to refer to Member States.

With respect to language related to the 2030 Agenda in preambular paragraph 1, we refer you to our remarks delivered November 21 on the matter.

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