Press Release.............................. UNESCAP News Services

25 April 2003
Press Release: G/04/2003

59th Commission Session, First Phase
24-25 April 2003, Bangkok

HISTORIC ADMITTANCE OF TIMOR-LESTE TO UNESCAP
Publications slashed, results-based workplan part of reform efforts

BANGKOK (United Nations Information Services)--Ambassadorial-level officials from thirty-three member governments of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) today concluded the first phase of an unprecedented 59th annual session of the Commission (24-25 April 2003) by increasing its membership with the admittance of Timor-Leste.

The Commission unanimously decided to admit Timor-Leste as a full member bringing its membership to 62, comprising 53 members and 9 associate members.

"We warmly welcome Timor-Leste and hope their participation in UNESCAP's programmes, and socio-economic development in the region will be enhanced," said one delegate.

Members also welcomed UNESCAP's revitalization efforts. Its publications had been cut down by 47%.

Delegates also considered programme changes of UNESCAP for 2003 and the programme of work for the biennium 2004-2005. "The new work programme uses a results-based framework with emphasis on the achievement of the desired outputs. We have sharpened the focus of the programme of work to achieve greater impact," said Mr. Kim Hak-Su, Executive Secretary of UNESCAP.

"We also emphasized multidisciplinary approaches in the delivery of services and provided a balance between analytical and operational activities. Special attention is being given to the needs of the least developed, landlocked and island developing countries as well as countries with economies in transition," Mr. Kim added.

Other important issues included a briefing on transit transport in multi-landlocked and transit developing countries ahead of a major August Ministerial Meeting in Kazakhstan.

The first phase of the 59th session unanimously elected H.E. Mrs. Leela Krisnamurty
Ponappa, India's Amabassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent
Representative to UNESCAP as chairperson of the session.

"We will observe closely the developments regarding SARS and further consult members to set the dates for the second phase of this 59th Commission Session," said Mr. Kim.

ends