H.E. Mr. Tang Jiaxuan, State Councilor, China

In an era of accelerated economic globalization, nations in the Asia-Pacific region have seized the opportunity by taking an active part in international cooperation and pursuing all-round economic and social development, and made remarkable achievements. However, serious challenges to humanity still remain. To realize durable peace and common development in the region, there is still a long uphill journey. Therefore, we urgently need to further step up regional cooperation.

Against this backdrop, the Chinese Government is honored to host the 60th session of the United Nations' Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). In 1947, the Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East (ECAFE), forerunner to ESCAP, was founded in Shanghai. It is of great significance for this session to be held in ESCAP's birthplace.

China is a member of the Asia-Pacific region. Over the past 20 years, the Chinese Government has pursued reform and opening up policy and achieved remarkable economic progress. The development of China has presented opportunities for the world and especially for the region. With further development, China will make new contribution to the prosperity in the region and the world at large.

The Chinese Government attaches great importance to this ESCAP session. We believe that with the concerted efforts from all parties, the session will surely achieve great success following discussions in a cooperative, pragmatic, candid and friendly atmosphere. We are confident that Asia-Pacific regional cooperation has a broad vista, and the region will have a better future.