CHAIRMAN'S CONCLUDING STATEMENT
FIFTY-EIGHTH SESSION OF THE COMMISSION

Fifty-eighth session, 16-22 May 2002, Bangkok
(Wednesday, 22 May 2002)

Mr Executive Secretary
Excellencies,
Distinguished Representative,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

We have just concluded three days of intensive deliberations in this Ministerial Segment of the Fifty-eighth session of the Commission. It is a daunting task for me to summarize the very rich and fruitful discussions that we had. Let me instead highlight a few major issues raised in this session.

First of all, it was evident that given the continuing uncertainties in the global economy and international political environment, countries of the region have to better manage the risks and seize the opportunities offered by globalization. Surely, the process of globalization and interdependence among countries is irreversible.

Indeed, this was clearly brought out in the discussions on the theme topic of the current session on (Quote) Sustainable social development in a period of rapid globalization: challenges, opportunities and policy options (Unquote). It was encouraging that the delegations which addressed this issue have reaffirmed the importance of pursuing sustainable social development policies in these uncertain times. Ultimately, it is the poorest segments of society that are most vulnerable to the risks posed by globalization, and who will need support.

Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Like the Executive Secretary, I was greatly encouraged by the overwhelming support voiced by the member states for ESCAP's revitalization efforts. Indeed, this is a tribute to you, Mr. Executive Secretary, and your dynamic leadership. Together, I hope we can all build on the shared vision we have developed. We look forward to the Mid-term review of the conference structure in 2005.

Equally encouraging was the emphasis placed on integrating the developing countries of Asia and the Pacific into the international trading system, seizing on the opportunities offered by the Fourth WTO Ministerial Conference in Doha. We look to ESCAP's continued efforts in facilitating accession of non-members to the WTO, and to even closer cooperation between ESCAP, the WTO and UNCTAD in advocating the concerns of developing countries and advancing their common interests in future negotiations.

The Commission's endorsement of the Phnom Penh Regional Platform on Sustainable Development for Asia and the Pacific augurs well for addressing the region's concerns at the forthcoming World Summit for Sustainable Development.

Similarly, the Commission's recognition of the importance of the Seoul Declaration on Infrastructure Development in Asia and the Pacific adopted by the Ministerial Conference on Infrastructure held at Seoul in November 2001 bodes well for the development of road and rail links as part of an integrated inter modal and transport system.

Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Coming as I do from a least developed country, Nepal, I have noted with special interest the Commission's recommendation that ESCAP facilitate the sharing of experiences in poverty reduction in urban and rural areas between countries in the region through the identification, documentation, dissemination and replication of best practices through pilot projects. Based on the successful experience of the Saemaul Udong project in the Republic of Korea, the Government of Nepal is giving serious consideration to the participation of selected villages in our country in a pilot project. We also look to ESCAP's support in the use of ICT for rural poverty alleviation.

I am pleased to note that the Commission's decision on the theme topic of the fifty-ninth session, "Integrating economic and social concerns, especially HIV/AIDS, in meeting the needs of the region" is both timely and vital.

Finally, I think I speak on behalf of all the delegations in welcoming the generous offer of the Government of China to host the 60th session of the Commission in Shanghai in 2004.

Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

In closing, I should like to express my sincere appreciation to all who have assisted me in fulfilling my duties as Chairman. First and foremost, the Vice-Chairpersons. Secondly, to the distinguished delegates, who participated so actively in the deliberations. The Executive Secretary and all members of his staff, for the excellent documentation and draft report. The Secretary of the Commission and his staff, who have so ably assisted me in discharging my duties.

I should also like to express my deep appreciation to all those who worked so hard behind the scenes; including the editorial, language and conference and general services staff, whose unfailing attention to detail and dedication to duty ensured the efficient servicing of this Commission session.

My deepest gratitude also goes to the Government of Thailand for the generous hospitality shown to all delegates, which has contributed immensely to the success of the Fifty-eighth session.

For those delegates who have travelled from abroad, I wish you a safe journey back home and look forward to meeting you again at the Fifty-ninth session next year.

I hereby, declare the Fifty-eighth session of the Commission closed.

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