Key Issues
It is generally recognized that trade and economic development did not figure prominently in the Millennium Development Goals. This high-level segment will thus provide a vehicle to strengthen the action of the international community in those areas.
It will focus attention on the African host region, with a view to contributing to its development processes and economic progress in those areas, within the mandate of UNCTAD.
Purpose of the event
The high-level segment will be an integral part of UNCTAD XII, the theme of which is "Addressing the opportunities and challenges of globalization for development".
The focus of the segment will be trade and development. The idea is to bring together a group of concerned policymakers and decision makers at the highest level (Heads of State and Government) in an environment of international cooperation, for interactive dialogue and consensus-building for the region.
It will also showcase the potential and capacity of UNCTAD to contribute and make a difference.
Participants
The high-level segment will be chaired by the Secretary-General of the United Nations and moderated by the Secretary-General of UNCTAD.
The panel includes Heads of State and Government from Brazil, Ecuador, El Salvador, Finland, Ghana, Senegal, South Africa, the United Republic of Tanzania, Turkey and Uganda.
Expected outcomes/deliverables
The expected outcomes are to:
- Identify actions and directions to accelerate the momentum of Africa's progress
- Strengthen the engagement of the international community with regard to new commitments and new initiatives, or in support of already planned initiatives