21 Oct 2019
1. Thank you, Mr Chair. We thank the People’s Republic of China for its initiative in facilitating the request for observer status for the Boao Forum for Asia (“the Forum”). Singapore, as one of the countries that had jointly initiated the Forum, is pleased to support the Forum’s request for observer status and to co-sponsor the draft resolution.
2. Mr Chair, granting the Forum observer status would be of mutual benefit to both the Forum and the General Assembly. As set out in its Charter, the Forum’s objectives include the promotion and strengthening of economic exchanges, interaction and cooperation within Asia, as well as between Asia and other parts of the world. The Forum also aims to provide a high-level venue for dialogue among Governments, businesses, experts and scholars, in Asia and other regions, on important issues, including economic, social and environmental issues. Being based in Asia and with a global outlook, the Forum supports the sustainable development of the Asian economy and actively promotes economic globalisation.
3. The Forum’s objectives and activities clearly cover matters of interest to the General Assembly. They are also aligned with the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, in promoting international cooperation in solving international problems of an economic and social character. With its commitment to fostering deeper interaction and cooperation within Asia and beyond on various issues and challenges faced by the international community, the Forum would be in a position to constructively contribute to the work of the General Assembly. At the same time, its presence and engagement as an observer in the work of the General Assembly could enhance the Forum’s ability to carry out its functions.
4. For these reasons, Singapore supports the Forum’s request for observer status in the General Assembly. We request members of the Sixth Committee to likewise consider the request favourably.
5. Thank you very much, Mr Chair.
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