Excellency, Mr. Jeyhun Bayramov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan and chair of the 82nd session of the Commission,
Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen,
It is my pleasure and honour to welcome you all to the opening of the eighty-second session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific.
On behalf of the secretariat, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to our hosts, the Government of Azerbaijan and the Royal Thai Government, for their generous and consistent support for our work.
We come together at a very challenging time. Our region’s dynamism and stability are being tested by increasing geopolitical tensions and accelerating economic protectionism. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has triggered our most severe energy supply crisis in decades.
From transport connectivity to trade flows and financial stability, the impacts are weakening our economies and societies. Further direct socioeconomic costs are looming if conflict persists.
Even so, we have reasons for optimism. Asia and the Pacific is home to the world's most dynamic economies. We have deftly navigated past crises and always emerged stronger.
Moreover, our leaders have shown what is possible when countries learn from one another and find solutions together. It is that determination—and that spirit of collaboration—that will see us through. We hope it will also guide and inspire deliberations over the next few days.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
As we look ahead, it is important to recognize the profound structural transformations currently shaping our region. Among them, demographic change, particularly population ageing, stands out as a transformative force.
The shift from a society with high fertility and mortality rates to one where people live longer lives in smaller families has widespread implications for individuals, societies as well as economies. It influences labour markets, social protection provision, healthcare systems and long-term growth prospects across our region.
We can navigate this transition through dialogue, innovation and, above all, continued regional cooperation. Working together to build a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. A region that is also better equipped to withstand external shocks.
I look forward to the rich exchanges in the days ahead. May this session serve as a platform to reinforce our shared commitment, inspire new ideas and strengthen the bonds that unite us.
Thank you very much.
