Secretary-General Applauds Asia-Pacific Efforts to Reduce Poverty, Promote Innovation, in Message for Regional Commission’s Anniversary

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message for the seventieth anniversary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and seventy-third session of the Commission, in Bangkok today:

Congratulations to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific on its seventieth anniversary.  This dynamic institution is at the heart of the largest trading hub in the world.  Asia and the Pacific are also leaders in science, technology and innovation.

At the same time, many challenges confront this region, which is home to half the world’s poor.  I applaud ESCAP’s efforts to reduce poverty, protect the environment and realize the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The Asia and the Pacific region is the leading South-South provider, sharing knowledge and resources with others.  Your spirit of openness and willingness to work beyond borders is critical to enhancing multilateralism.

I wish you continued success as we build a better future for the people of the Asia-Pacific region and our world.