23 April 2009: The UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) has convened for its 65th session in Bangkok, Thailand, from 23-29 April 2009, under the theme of “Sustainable agriculture and food security in Asia and the Pacific.”

Noeleen Heyzer, UNESCAP Executive Secretary, stated that as countries in Asia and the Pacific grapple with the “triple threat” of the economic crisis, food and fuel insecurity, and climate change, there is a greater need for cooperation in the region, and to turn threats into opportunities. Heyzer highlighted UNESCAP’s role in building consensus and “leveraging regional resources to improve cooperation.” During the session, delegates are expected to discuss regional actions and initiatives to address food, energy and financial security in the context of climate change, with a high-level panel on the economic crisis planned for 28 April. [UN press release]