/ESCATO/ was held in the ten-days of September, in Bang Kong /Thailand/.

Azerbaijan was represented by the delegation led by Deputy Minister for Labor and Social Security of Azerbaijan Republic Shamsaddin Khanbabayev.

Development of economy on the basis of democratic principles, socio-political stability and social-economic reforms successfully realized in the Republic created the conditions for development of the cooperation of Azerbaijan with numerous international structures. Election of the Deputy Minister for Labor and Social Security Shamsaddin Khanbabayev as Deputy Chairman of the 59th session of UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and Pacific Ocean covering over 65% of the world population is an evidence to this development.

The Minister informed that ESCATO studies labor relations and strengthening of social security, poverty reduction, bringing up sound youth, health of population and other actual, social problems in the countries of the region, AzerTAj was told. In his report, Azerbaijan representative stated that reforms carrying out in the Republic could overcome crisis and revive the economy of the country.

The report says on preparation and implementation of the effective actions for providing allowances and pensions, as important directions of the social reforms in Azerbaijan, creation of the working places for less provided people, application of privileges in the field of education and healthcare.

The reporter dwelt on the Armenian military aggression against Azerbaijan and its hard consequences. It was noted that despite of macroeconomic stability and socio-economic development, occupation of over 20% of Azerbaijani lands, and over million refugees and IDPs impedes the development of the region.

Mr. Khanbabayev noted that ESCATO should pay special attention to Azerbaijan. He expressed his gratitude for the UNDP, WB, IMF, UNHCR, WHO and IOM organizations for implementation some projects related to Azerbaijan.

Mr. Khanbabayev met with executive secretary of ESCATO 59th session Kim Khak –Su, noting that leadership of Azerbaijan attaches particular significance to this session, as well as told on lasting stability established in the country and invited him to Baku.

The regular 60th session of UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and Pacific Ocean is planned to hold in Shanghai /China/, 2004.