GOVTS WORK TO STRENGTHEN ROLE OF UN/ESCAP

Bangkok: (United Nations Information Services) -- Mr. Kim Hak-Su, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of UN/ESCAP has opened the 58th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific.

The main theme of this year's Session is Sustainable Social Development in a Period of Rapid Globalization: Challenges, Opportunities and Policies Options.

Revitalization of UN/ESCAP is a key part of this year's agenda, involving a proposed restructuring of the way the Commission carries out its work and a streamlining of its activities.

"A little over a year ago I outlined my vision and plans for a revitalized UN/ESCAP," Mr. Kim told delegates. "It is clear that the member Governments have a strong sense of ownership and are committed to strengthening the role of UN/ESCAP as a unique intergovernmental body in the Asia Pacific region. It also served to reinforce my confidence in the continuing vitality and utility of this organization."

The new proposed structure would tightly focus UN/ESCAP's work on "poverty reduction, managing globalization, and addressing emerging social issues," Mr. Kim said.

This year's emerging social issues include, but are not limited to, Asia's ageing population, the empowerment of women, and the rights and needs of persons with disabilities in the region. The regional response to the forthcoming World Summit for Sustainable Development (WSSD) to be held in Johannesburg in August is also on the agenda.

Senior Government officials are taking part in three days of discussions, scheduled to wrap up on Saturday. Their recommendations are expected to be endorsed by the Ministers on Wednesday, 22 May 2002.

Government Ministers will arrive on Monday to begin their deliberations. H.E. Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra, Prime Minister of the Royal Thai Government, will open the Ministerial Segment.

The Government Ministers will hold a closed-door roundtable meeting Tuesday, May 21 morning. Mr. Kim Hak-Su will give a press conference detailing the outcome of the Ministerial Roundtable at 11.30 a.m. the same day at the Executive Suite. 2nd Floor of UNCC.

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