Collapse puts disaster comment on agenda
PUBLISHED: 22 Apr 2025 at 03:30
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific ( Unescap ) has called for regional cooperation to promote sustainable and inclusive urban development.
Unescap’s 81st meet program under the style” Regional Cooperation for Resilient and Sustainable Urban Development in Asia and the Pacific” was held yesterday at the UN Conference Centre in Bangkok.
The occasion gathered officials and key stakeholders from across the area to discuss plans for equitable and sustainable development in line with the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
In her opening target, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra highlighted that almost 70 % of the world population may reside in urban areas by 2025, emphasising the urgent need for sustainable urbanisation in policy and practice.
She stressed that urban residents may be willing to cope with more storms, droughts and heatwaves by integrating disaster risk reduction into urban planning.
Moreover, she underscored the importance of health in urban places, calling for stronger safeguards against international crimes like drug trafficking, human smuggling, and crime.
Enhancing law protection, online exposure, and electronic literacy were cited as necessary measures.
Thailand, she added, is committed to fostering adaptable places that balance creativity and openness. One example is the government’s effort to create a 20-baht level fare across Bangkok’s industrial road network– aimed at reducing financial disparities, transportation costs, and improving connectivity.
” Urbanisation is not only about ensuring safety and well-being, but also about building a resilient coming,” Ms Paetongtarn said.
Via a video message, Philemon Yang, President of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly, said that cities play a pivotal role in the Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs ) by 2030. Urban places, he noted, accounts for 80 % of GDP in the Asia-Pacific territory and are key to tackling climate change and driving economic development.
However, he acknowledged that social, economic, and environmental vulnerabilities continue to impact urban areas differently, hindering equal access to the benefits of growth.
To ensure equitable urban development, Mr Yang urged member states to invest in sustainable public infrastructure, expand green spaces, and pursue inclusive urban planning.
He also emphasised regional collaboration, particularly through platforms like the Pact for the Future.