Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs on Tuesday, 20th February, 2024Thank you.
Mr. Chair,
It is clear that if we are to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, we must have the political will to build systems that are inclusive, diverse, and equitable. The Bahamas looks forward to playing an integral role in this important process. Our aim is to achieve the development of robust draft terms of reference for a United Nations framework convention on international tax cooperation that adequately addresses the inherent constraints and development approaches of the Global South and Small Island Developing States like The Bahamas.
It is clear that if we are to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, we must have the political will to build systems that are inclusive, diverse, and equitable. The Bahamas looks forward to playing an integral role in this important process. Our aim is to achieve the development of robust draft terms of reference for a United Nations framework convention on international tax cooperation that adequately addresses the inherent constraints and development approaches of the Global South and Small Island Developing States like The Bahamas.
It is clear that if we are to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, we must have the political will to build systems that are inclusive, diverse, and equitable. The Bahamas looks forward to playing an integral role in this important process. Our aim is to achieve the development of robust draft terms of reference for a United Nations framework convention on international tax cooperation that adequately addresses the inherent constraints and development approaches of the Global South and Small Island Developing States like The Bahamas.
It is clear that if we are to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, we must have the political will to build systems that are inclusive, diverse, and equitable. The Bahamas looks forward to playing an integral role in this important process. Our aim is to achieve the development of robust draft terms of reference for a United Nations framework convention on international tax cooperation that adequately addresses the inherent constraints and development approaches of the Global South and Small Island Developing States like The Bahamas.
The Bahamas – reliant on Tourism and Financial Services– stands vulnerable to external economic shocks and the pernicious impacts of the climate crisis. The dichotomy between the Global North-designed international financial architecture and the imperatives for sustainable, resilient prosperity in the Global South is starkly evident in international tax initiatives. Moreover, the arbitrary blacklisting of vulnerable countries compounds their plight, perpetuating a cycle of economic disenfranchisement. We view backlisting initiatives as contrary to our right to development.
The Bahamas wishes to congratulate you on assuming the role as Chair, and Claudia Vargas on assuming the role of rapporteur and I assure you of The Bahamas’ support throughout this process.
