Addressing an audience of over 80 people from various UN agencies, the government’s high representative talked frankly about the long road from costly recovery to a brighter future of a politically stable and economically viable Afghanistan. He highlighted his country's strategic priorities: peace, reconciliation and reintegration, ensuring Afghan sovereignty; improving governance and fighting corruption. He also pointed to key sectors that need investment: agriculture, water, mining, energy infrastructure, trade and transit, health and education. "Afghanistan left a turbulent year behind: assassinations of government officials, political and tribal leaders, and spectacular attacks on targets in major cities have eroded public confidence while significantly reducing Taliban popularity; but for the first time since 2005 the trend of insecurity has been reversed", said Minister Stanekzai. He asserted that being in the hearth of Asia, the country needs improved regional cooperation that replaces confrontation. Minister Stanekzai held firm on his vision about a "future shaped with Afghan leadership and international support" and shared his greatest source of hope - young Afghan men and women who are not carrying the baggage of past conflict and divisions.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Shun-ichi Murata, Deputy Executive Secretary and O-I-C, a.i., ESCAP welcomed Minister Stanekzai and pointed out that “ Given his first hand policy experience, Minister Stanekzai is ideally positioned to share with us his vision of Afghanistan’s future as the country moves forward with transition and the implementation of its National Priority Programmes”. Mr. Murata reiterated that the UN attaches a high priority to Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs). “I am pleased to say that ESCAP, as the regional arm of the United Nations in Asia-Pacific region, has been working closely with other UN agencies and development partners to assist the countries with special needs, including Afghanistan through the implementation of the global and regional mandates.” , said Mr. Murata.