The Vanuatu Delegation participated in the 81st session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), held at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok. The delegation is led by Mr. James Tari, First Political Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and External Trade and accompanied by Mr. Mathieu Hervillard Le Peillet, Vanuatu’s Permanent Representative to UNESCAP and Mr. Eddison Taso, UN Desk Officer.
Throughout the session, the delegation engaged actively at side events, bilateral meetings, and high-level discussions, including key engagements with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand under the framework of the 5th Thailand Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (TPIF). Additionally, the delegation participated in a study tour organized by the ESCAP Pacific Office, visiting the Thailand Water Quality Management Centre and the Baan Mankong (Secure Housing) initiative in Bangkok, gaining valuable insights into sustainable urban development and water management practices.
During the week-long event, ministers and key stakeholders from across Asia and the Pacific convened to address critical policy issues for inclusive and sustainable development. The session was centered on the theme: “Regional Cooperation for Resilient and Sustainable Urban Development in Asia and the Pacific”.
The discussions provided a vital platform to advance inclusive urban growth and foster collective actions aimed at achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. With over 2.2 billion urban residents and many of the world’s largest megacities, Asia and the Pacific remains a global urban leader. However, the region faces pressing challenges, including slowing population growth, economic volatility, climate-related risks, and social disparities, which necessitate integrated and sustainable development strategies.
In addition to participating in thematic discussions, the Vanuatu Delegation successfully engaged in the voting processes for the four UNESCAP governing bodies which contribute to the regional decision-making process that will guide the Commission’s work in the coming months.
The delegation reaffirmed Vanuatu’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, enhancing resilience, and promoting sustainable urban development, particularly in support of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and other vulnerable economies in the Pacific.
