Statement by India at the 39th Session of the Human Rights Council (September 10 to 28, 2018) on General Debate on Agenda Item 3: Report of the Working Group on the Right to Development delivered by Ambassador Virander Paul, Deputy Permanent Representative[Geneva, 14th September 2018].
Thank You Mr. President,
India would like to first place on record its appreciation for the report of the Working Group on the Right to Development on its nineteenth session.
2. Right to Development, remains extremely important for an overwhelming majority of the global population. It is regrettable that, even after three decades of the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development, and after 19 sessions of the Working Group on this subject, this Right still remains a distant reality.
3. India appreciates the dialogue of the Working Group with experts and the Special Rapporteur on the Right to Development in the meetings of the Working Group. Progress in the Working Group is possible only if participating Member States demonstrate the necessary political will for seeking common ground with a result oriented approach.
4. We agree that the process of development needs to be nationally owned and driven by national needs and priorities. However, what it needs to be complemented by is equitable economic relations and a favourable environment at the international level. It is high time that we recognise the Right to Development is central to the realisation of all other human rights.
Mr. President,
5. India would also like to bring to the attention of the Council a matter of concern regarding the reference in the report of the Working Group of an intervention by a member state which goes against the principles enshrined in UNGA Resolution 41/128. India shares international community’s desire for enhancing physical connectivity and believes that it should bring greater economic benefits to all in an equitable and balanced manner. Regarding the so-called ‘China-Pakistan Economic Corridor’, which is being projected as the flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative, the international community is well aware of India’s position. No country can accept a project that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Mr. President,
6. India reaffirms its commitment to the implementation of the Right to Development.
Thank you.
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