Dear Co-Chairs,

1. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. We are now turning to the Selection process for the members of the Scientific and Technical Body and the other subsidiary bodies, and will focus on the question on which elements need to be reflected in the text to be prepared by the Co-Chairs. Firstly, we would need to settle on the size of each of the subsidiary bodies. That will determine how equitable geographic representation will be reflected and how we deal with the representation of LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS.

2. On how to define the qualification of prospective members of each body, we have noted three differing proposals:

a) That there should be a definitive list of qualifications; that there should be an indicative list, as other qualifications might be relevant; and
b) That we should not be prescriptive but rather decide on the qualifications of each candidate based on their merits.

3. The Group of 77 and China is still considering the above options in this context.

4. Finally, on the length of term, on whether it would be renewable, and if it should be staggered, we have taken note of a preference for terms that are renewable for a limited amount and that staggering might make sense to both retain knowledge in the subsidiary body as well to bring in fresh ideas.

Dear Co-Chairs,

5. As members of the subsidiary bodies will be elected by the COP, we must also take into account the periodicity of COP meetings. Should meetings of the Conference be held biennially at some point, then the years of elected membership would need to be divisible by the number 2.

6. We look forward to engaging in the discussion on this important item and the Member States of the G77 and China will enter into further detail.

I thank you!