The 80th Session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) commenced yesterday at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, with the Maldives delegation being led by Dr. Hussain Niyaaz, Secretary of Economic and Development Cooperation.
The session, which runs from 22-26 April 2024, is themed “Leveraging digital innovation for sustainable development in Asia and the Pacific” and aims to strengthen regional cooperation in harnessing digital innovation for the accelerated implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
In his remarks, Dr Niyaaz highlighted the Maldivian government’s ambitious development agenda, which prioritizes innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. He mentioned plans to establish smart and resilient urban centres, the “Ras Malé Eco-City project, e-government platforms, and the utilization of artificial intelligence across various services.
Dr. Niyaaz will also participate in a side event co-hosted by Maldives, Indonesia, Fiji, and France, entitled “Accelerating Ocean-Based Climate Action” on the sidelines of the Session.
The ESCAP session follows a thematic study examining existing digital innovations that have accelerated progress towards sustainable development and exploring ways to build on their successes. Delegations from ESCAP member countries and associate members, as well as independent organizations, are participating in the Commission Session.
Dr Niyaaz is accompanied by Ms Aishath Shiruma Ahmed, First Secretary, Ms Aishath Shahula, First Secretary, and Ms Siyana Shiyam, Second Secretary at the Embassy of the Republic of Maldives in the Kingdom of Thailand.
The Maldives delegation’s participation in the 80th ESCAP Commission Session demonstrates its commitment to leveraging digital innovation for sustainable development and contributing to regional efforts towards achieving the 2030 Agenda.
