Report on the Policy Dialogue in South and South-West Asia

Report on the Policy Dialogue
on Regional Cooperation, Connectivity and Inclusive Development
in South and South-West Asia
28-29 November 2013, New Delhi, India
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Background
South and South-West Asian subregion has undergone major structural changes and
industrial development in recent years. Despite temporary economic slowdown, it
has weathered the global financial crisis rather well and has also made remarkable
progress in reducing poverty and achieving other MDGs. However, the subregion is
home to the largest concentration of people living in poverty and hunger and many
gaps still remain, including wide infrastructure gaps. The subregion remains one of
the least integrated in the world as the connectivity across border remains poor.
Four of the ten countries in South and South-West Asia are least developed
countries, while three are also landlocked.
In view of these subregional challenges, the Policy Dialogue on Regional
Cooperation, Connectivity and Inclusive Development in South and South-West Asia
was organized by UNESCAP-South and South West Asia Office (UNESCAP-SSWA).
The aim of the dialogue was to draw on country experiences to develop greater
regional cooperation for connectivity, transport and trade facilitation, food and
energy security in the subregion.
It brought together over 120 participants from all ten countries in the subregion,
representing Government officials, policy makers, development and substantive
experts, academia and civil society representatives. The Dialogue reviewed most
pressing challenges facing the subregion and ways to address them through regional
cooperation. It was attended by H.E. Dr. E.M.S Natchiappan, Minister of State for
Commerce and Industry, Government of India who delivered the inaugural address.
H.E. Mr. Mohammad Tariq Ismati, Deputy Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and
Development, Afghanistan, also delivered a special address at the event. The highlevel event, which also involved the Trade and Investment, Environment and
Transport Divisions of UNESCAP, saw the launch of three reports as part of its
programme, the Asia-Pacific Trade and Investment Report 2013; the Human
Development in South Asia 2013: Water for Human Development, co-organized with
the Mahbub-ul Haq Centre and the UNESCAP-SSWA’s Towards Seamless Connectivity
in South and South-West Asia.
DAY 1: 28 NOVEMBER 2013
Opening Session:
Dr. Nagesh Kumar opened the Policy Dialogue highlighting the objectives of the
policy dialogue. The South and South-West Asia region was described as a subregion
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that had managed to weather the financial crisis and has even made great strides in
poverty reduction over the past decade, a crucial component of the MDG agenda. Dr.
Kumar explained the tremendous untapped potential of intraregional trade within
the region. He noted that there was the potential of $72 billion in exports within the
region. Why then, he asked, has this potential not been exploited. Dr. Kumar noted
several key barriers that have held back the region from achieving its potential in
terms of trade. Most notable include the poor transport connectivity and other
barriers to trade at the borders as well as weak banking links. These factors led to
high cost of trade, often higher than it is with North America and Europe. Dr. Kumar
concluded this introduction by emphasizing the importance of strengthening
regional transport connectivity. Furthermore, he added that it was essential to
enhance regional cooperation to increase food and energy security within the
region.
H.E. Mr. Mohammad Tariq Ismati shared some of the key issues faced by
Afghanistan and compared and contrasted them with the issues of the region as a
whole. For example, while 70% of Afghanistan’s population lives in rural areas, only
10% have access to energy and around 28% of the population as a whole has access
to electricity. He listed security and lack of capacity as Afghanistan’s main concerns.
In terms of the South and South-West Asia region, Mr. Ismati noted weak cross
border trade systems and poverty as the major hindrances to growth. He discussed
some of the initiatives that have been implemented as well as his suggestions for
future improvements. Mr. Ismati’s main concerns moving forward include the
promotion of clean energy security and taking a proactive role to meet energy
needs.
H.E. Dr. E.M.S. Natchiappan opened his discussion acknowledging that India had
“always been opening up doors for the neighborhood”. Furthermore, Dr.
Natchiappan discussed the ways in which the U.S. and Europe benefited from Asian
knowledge and growth. He stressed the importance of utilizing as much solar power
as possible and finally concluded with the thought that Asia would become a very
powerful continent with greater regional connectivity.
Ms. Lise Grande concluded the opening session with her vote of thanks. She
emphasized the critical role that solar energy could play in the South and SouthWest Asia region and would enable the region to grow faster than any region in the
world. She stressed the fact that mutual benefit in the region was much greater than
individual interest. Ms. Grande pointed out that energy was necessary for growth
and poverty reduction. Furthermore, regional cooperation could attribute to greater
economic growth, assist in overcoming crippling structural barriers, and aid in
managing water resources.
Session 1: High-Level Panel on Potential of Regional Cooperation, Connectivity
and Inclusive Development
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Chair H.E. Mr. Qaiser Shaikh opened Session 1 with a brief introduction into the
topic and then handed the floor over to the high-level panelists.
The first panelist, Dr. Saman Kelegama, focused his discussion on enhancing
regional cooperation and economic connectivity in South Asia. He noted that South
Asia had emerged as one of the fastest growing regions in the world. Furthermore,
the institutions in the SAARC region have a very important role for developing
connectivity within the region. Dr. Kelegama elaborated upon some of the reasons
regional trade in services had remained low. One of the most critical challenges is
transport connectivity and infrastructure, a category in which South Asia lags
behind the world average. Dr. Kelegama proceeded to propose a Regional
Infrastructure Fund to help improve regional connectivity. While improved
connectivity is critical towards increasing trade and investment within the region,
he concluded by emphasizing that there were a number of other challenges that
need to be addressed for the region to prosper.
Ambassador M. Humayun Kabir began his discussion with an overview on the
policies of Bangladesh, the country’s domestic politics and the current status the
nation. He discussed the challenges Bangladesh continues to face as well as the way
forward for the country. Mr. Kabir delved into the topic of connectivity and why now
was such a crucial time for his nation. He noted India’s rise as an economic power
and noted that Bangladesh serves as a bridge between India and many other
nations. Mr. Kabir proceeded to define Bangladesh’s agenda on the connectivity
issues. He discussed how other stakeholder looked upon the topic of deeper
connectivity in South Asia. Finally, the Ambassador Kabir elaborated upon some of
the challenges that are slowing down growth such as the energy limitations and
connectivity between Bangladesh and India.
Ambassador Shafqat Kakakhel focused on the impact of regional collaboration.
Regional collaboration, he explained would strengthen peace in the region and
would also bring about greater economic growth. This growth would create the
resources needed to reduce, and ultimately eradicate, poverty. Mr. Khakakhel
stressed the need to encourage greater investment from within as well as globally.
Furthermore, Mr. Khakakhel brought up three of the crucial challenges the region
faces that will be critical towards further development. First, he noted the challenge
of water within the region. The region is water stressed and most countries will
continue to face increasing pressures as their populations continue to grow. Another
issue the South Asia region is facing is climate change. “South Asia will be one of the
worst affected by climate change,” explained Ambassador Khakakhel. The region
must work together to share information to counteract the effects of climate change.
India in particular, will need very large quantities of energy, another good reason
for increased connectivity. He explained how climate change is multi-dimensional in
that it exacerbates other challenges such as water/food security, health, and energy.
Finally, he emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment within the region.
“There is no way this region can make progress without tremendous legal
affirmative action to improve, enable, and empower women,” he explained. He
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concluded with his belief that the region could not develop alone and that working
together would be essential.
Ms. L Savithri began with the discussion about SAFTA. She noted that many SAFTA
nations were Least Developed Countries. While trade has been increasing, in order
to further enhance trade, it is essential for the harmonization of standards and
customs procedures. She concluded by discussing the impact SAARC had had on
trade within the region, noting that in many cases it had led to the harmonization of
standards.
Ms. Pramila Acharya Rijal presenting a report of the policy dialogue on women
entrepreneurship in South Asia held a day before, emphasized the need for men
to be active and heavily involved in all matters related to women’s economic
empowerment and access to entrepreneurial ventures. She focused on regional
cooperation for promoting women’s economic involvement in entrepreneurship.
Capacity building and development (for example establishing resource centers) are
vital towards inclusive development. Ms. Rijal argued the importance of capacitybuilding programmes for women entrepreneurs like that being conducted by the
Goldman Sachs 10,000 women program.
Session 2: Strengthening Regional Connectivity, Transport, and Trade
Facilitation
Chair Mr. Abolghasem Tahmasebi opened the second session with a brief
introduction into the topic and by thanking those who made this policy dialogue
possible.
Mr. Ussal Sahbaz discussed the need to create better connectivity between his
home nation of Turkey and the rest of the South and South-West Asia region. He
noted that there was currently very limited trade between Turkey and South and
South-West Asia. This is mostly due to connectivity problems such as subpar
railroads and other lagging infrastructure. Mr. Sahbaz suggested the extension of
train and transport coordination. He also recommended the enlargement of the
current three-country consultation platform for greater coordination and
connectivity.
Dr. Shaheen Afroze focused her discussion on enhancing connectivity and trade
facilitation within the region. The South and South-West Asia region is the least
integrated region in the world. However, it is currently among the fastest growing
regions and its diversity offers room for significantly greater growth. Dr. Afroze
proceeded to explain some of the key challenges to connectivity in the region
including infrastructure, administrative, security, and mistrust. Dr. Afroze then
discussed some of the initiatives taken by Bangladesh to counteract these problems.
Some domestic examples include improved infrastructure, port reforms, and a
closer working relationship between the public and private sectors. Some regional
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initiatives include the Joint Communique between India and Bangladesh in 2010. Dr.
Afroze concluded with ‘the way forward’ for Bangladesh and the region as a whole.
This includes greater investment in infrastructure, experience sharing, improving
the efficiency of customs authorities, the need for standardization and simplifying
customs procedures, and a strong political commitment.
Mr. TCA Srinivasa Raghavan stated that all attendees know what needed to be
done to further develop the region. He explained that large parts of Asia have
destroyed connectivity, therefore it was essential to restore, not build, connectivity.
He noted that while the economies of Asia were homogenous, they were politically
heterogeneous. Furthermore, Mr. Raghavan noted the historical prevalence of
nations having issues with smaller neighbors. In this case, India has seven small
neighbors, and the issue with Pakistan is a crucial one that has global ramifications.
Mr. Y.S. Shahrawat began with the efforts being made to strengthen transport,
regional connectivity, and trade facilitation. He concluded with a discussion on how
India, because of its location, sees itself as a bridge between Europe and different
parts of Asia.
Mr. T.A. Khan discussed the vital aspects of strengthening regional connectivity,
transport, and trade facilitation. A major challenge towards achieving these goals is
how to interpret data. For continued regional cooperation, Mr. Khan recommended
reducing lengthy customs handling times and the synchronization of cross-border
procedures. He concluded his discussion by touching upon e-commerce connectivity
and how the region could significantly benefit from it.
Mr. Sandeep Raj Jain explained what UNESCAP was doing for regional connectivity
and the way forward. Mr. Raj Jain discussed the UNESCAP initiative on improving
regional connectivity and presented its master plan to strengthen regional
transport. Mr. Raj Jain discussed the 2013 World Bank’s Doing Business report as
well at the Logistics Performance Index. In both cases the South and South-West
Asia region ranked very poorly across the board. These results can be explained by
the fact that weak connectivity results in low intraregional trade. Finally, Mr. Raj
Jain concluded by explaining the UNESCAP initiative to enhance regional
connectivity.
Mr. Bipul Chatterjee explained that the real issue in the region is bilateral trade
relations between India and Pakistan.
Session 3: Launch of Asia-Pacific Trade and Investment Report 2013
Chair Mr. Sumanta Chaudhuri introduced the third session with an introduction of
the topic at hand.
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Dr. Mia Mikic started her presentation with two key messages. First, the Asia
Pacific region continues to outperform the rest of the world while learning to live
and prosper without strong external demand. Next, the Asia Pacific region needs to
move beyond the orthodox model of export led growth and towards inclusive trade
and investment that benefits all. She continued by explaining that export growth is
slowing down in Asia. Furthermore, there are large gaps in trade facilitation figures
in Asia. Dr. Mikic explained that while the reduction of poverty in Asia (a key aspect
of the MDGs) had been successful, it is mostly a result of China’s recent success and
growth. In fact, in many areas of the region income inequality has actually risen
greatly, according to the Gini Index. She concluded with a discussion regarding the
movement towards inclusive trade and investment.
Dr. Poshraj Pandey focused his discussion on inclusive growth, as growth itself had
not necessarily reduced inequality. It is therefore essential, he explained, to ensure
that growth is felt by all segments of society.
Mr. Manab Majumdar explained how critical infrastructure connectivity was for
regional connectivity, trade, and investment. As a result, finance has become one of
the most important issues. Going forward it is essential to ensure that the trade in
the region is more inclusive. Furthermore, export diversification is crucial to rid the
region of dependence on a small number of markets or products.
Dr. Khondaker Golam Moazzem commended the work produced in the report,
and excellent elaboration on issues related to contractions in trade and investment,
at global and Asia Pacific region. The report outlined general dynamics at
intraregional and in merchandises, service trade, preferential trade agreements. Dr.
Moazzem shared that he would have liked to see the empirical basis for preparing
the thematic part of this report. Performance of different countries would have been
good to highlight. Dr. Moazzem went to explain the type of data and analysis that
would have enriched the report.
Prof. Sajal Mathur suggested that the report could have had more crisp and
elaborate recommendations. The report also missed the stronger analysis poverty
and inequality. Prof. Mathur highlighted that the debate should not be about
“growth vs. distribution”, but rather about “growth and distribution”, which would
have been important to emphasize in the report.
Session 4: Regional Cooperation Agenda for Food Security
Chair Prof. G.K. Chadha began the fourth session with brief opening remarks and
an introduction into the topic and panelists.
Dr. S. Mahendra Dev discussed the current state of food and nutrition security in
the region. He noted the current supply issues in oils, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and
meats. Furthermore, the region has been experiencing high food inflation and price
volatility. The big challenge in the region however, is malnutrition. Around 45% of
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citizens in the region suffer from being underweight/stunting of growth. Contrary to
popular belief, the level of malnutrition in South Asia is almost double that of SubSaharan Africa. Dr. Dev explained that nutrition was more complex than just
access/availability to food. In South Asia alone, 1.2 billion people are without access
to toilets and therefore openly defecate. In India, 53% of the population lacks toilets,
creating severe health issues.
Dr. Dev expressed the need for regional cooperation on the topics of availability,
access, and nutrition. This includes initiatives on food and agricultural cooperation,
SAFTA, cooperation on climate change, cooperation on energy and water, learning
post-harvest operations, and learning from existing social protection programs. He
concluded with his belief that improvements in agricultural productivity were
extremely important in South Asia.
Ambassador Shafqat Kakakhel explained that historically South Asia was a major
producer of food, however, there has been a history of famines. Therefore, food
security must continue to remain a top priority for South Asia. He proceeded to
explain that while agriculture made up a relatively small portion of the region’s GDP
(15-25%), it accounts for 60% of the livelihoods. He noted that the region had a
difficult task on its hand because it was trying to feed 17% of the population with
only 2.5% of the land. Therefore, food and agriculture are extremely important
topics for the region. Mr. Kakakhel pointed out that the 15th SAARC Summit and
Colombo Meetings were devoted almost entirely to food security. He proceeded to
explain several of the region’s challenges in terms of food security. For example,
there is limited and poor quality of land resources, heavy dependence on water for
agriculture, and the region remains water stressed. Furthermore, all challenges
related to climate change are water related challenges.
Dr. Poshraj Pandey focused on trade liberalization and food security within the
region. He displayed graphs that portray the state of hunger in the region. He also
delved into malnutrition and the adverse effects it has on society. Approximately
295 million people, or 17.8% of the population, in South Asia are malnourished. He
then compared food production in the region with the rate of population growth. Dr.
Pandey proceeded to explain how trade could be used as an instrument to enhance
food security in South Asia. He proceeded to look into the issue of self-sufficiency, in
terms of food sovereignty, in which nations maximize domestic production
regardless of costs. He then compared this to the concept of self-reliance noting
several barriers to international trade, including tariff barriers as well as non-tariff
barriers. He concluded his presentation with his vision for the way forward. It is
crucial to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers, expedite SAARC standards, and
prohibit export restrictions on regional trade.
Dr. Saman Kelegama began with a discussion about the Global Food Security Index.
He explained that the situation in South Asia had reached an “alarming level”.
Furthermore, agricultural trade is not taking place on a large scale in this region as a
result of high tariffs. He stressed the importance of cooperation in agricultural
research as well as the harmonization of river/ocean water utilization.
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Mr. Muhammad Al Amin began by discussing the goals of the SAARC Food Bank
since its inception to its current state. He proceeded to note some of the issues faced
by the SAARC Food Bank. For example, it acts more like an emergency relief bank
than a food bank. Furthermore, the amount available is inadequate to take on any
large-scale disasters. Other issues included lack of unified standards and the
political commitment for the SAARC Food Bank. Mr. Amin continued by noting some
of the policy initiatives necessary to the plans success. Some examples of these
policy initiatives include contributions to the SAARC Food Bankand the pricing
policy. Finally, Mr. Al Amin laid out plans for food security, infrastructure
development, information sharing, and political commitment for the initiative.
Mr. Matthew Hammill focused on the regional cooperation for food security. He
noted that South Asia had one third of the world food insecure and half of the
world’s underweight. Furthermore, while the region has 20% of the world’s
population, it only has 4% of the land. He proceeded to lay out an agenda based on
regional cooperation for food security. This included:
1. Climate resilience and sustainable agriculture
2. Regional food management
3. Liberalized national trade
4. Joint R&D
5. Regional knowledge network
6. Logistics to reduce waste
7. Policy coordination
8. Food safety and management of animal diseases
9. National resources management
10. Integrated phase classification
In order to prioritize this agenda Mr. Hammill suggested a higher-level of crosssector coordination policy design, domestic policy coordination, and the
empowerment of women in agriculture.
Session 5: Regional Cooperation for Energy Security
Chair H.E. Mr. Mohammad Tariq Ismati opened the fifth session with an
introduction into the topic of energy security.
Dr. Jyoti K. Parikh outlined a plan on Integrated Research and Action for
Development (IRADE). This plan focused on: Electricity (nature of their work) and
economic growth in South Asia, Status and recent development in CBET, Rationale
and drivers for cross border energy trade in the region, Diversity in demand
structure, Win-win for all countries: long term benefits, Effective and efficient
utilization of naturals resources, Barriers to regional energy trade (lack of political
will/financing for infrastructure).
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Dr. Parikh proceeded by outlining the way forward for the region focusing on:
Development of transparent trading systems, Political consensus, Harmonization of
regulatory mechanisms, legal structure, and policy framework, Derive best practices
from established international energy markets and Interconnection possibilities in
South Asia.
Dr. Leena Srivastava focused on energy collaboration and cooperation.
Infrastructure cooperation is vital because most of the infrastructure in the region is
outdated and needs to be upgraded. Dr. Srivastava mentioned ideas such as a SAARC
refinery and SAARC energy plant. Dr. Srivastava stressed the need for a long-term
integrated energy plan. The need is especially important for this region. This region
is home to 25% of the 3 billion people in the world who lack adequate access to
energy. Furthermore, such initiatives would be key drivers of jobs, also an essential
need for the region. Dr. Srivastava delved into the idea that the countries in the
region would face great urbanization in the coming years and would therefore
demand more energy, making it evermore essential to develop new models and
strengthen planning. Finally, Dr. Srivastava said “There is a lot we can learn from
each other in these areas.” He stressed the importance of regional cooperation in
achieving all of the aforementioned goals.
Mr. Hongpeng Liu began with a discussion on The 2013 Asian Pacific Energy
Forum, the first Asian Pacific energy forum entirely devoted to regional cooperation
for energy security. He talked about the main outcomes that resulted from this
forum: the Ministerial Declaration on Regional Cooperation for Energy Security and
Sustainability, which focused on the use of energy in the Asia Pacific. Mr. Liu
highlighted a Plan of Action that included 8 areas of priority including: Improving
energy policies to enhance energy efficiency and conservation, Accelerating the
development of subregional connectivity infrastructure and Promoting renewable
energy for decent applications and grid connected electricity generation
Mr. Liu concluded with an illustration of the future of connectivity for Asia Pacific
that displayed the Pan Asian energy infrastructure in 2050.
Session 6: Special Session on Regional Cooperation, Human Development and
Water
Chair Ms. Stuti Kakkar began the final session with an introduction to the panelists
and a brief discussion about the role regional cooperation plays on human
development and water security within the region.
H.E. Mr. Qaiser Shaikh stressed the importance of growth with equal distribution.
He explained that one country could not develop individually, rather all countries
must benefit from working together. He proceeded with the Presentation of the
Report, and discussed some of the main topics of the report. For example, water for
human development is a major challenge faced by all South Asian nations. “The
world and South Asia cannot take water for granted,’” he stated. Six of the eight
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South Asia regional nations share river systems that span national boundaries. Mr.
Shaikh explained that it was essential for the countries to work together to solve
this water issue. Furthermore, another critical topic of the region is climate change.
Mr. Shaikh explained why climate change was a challenge that the region could not
ignore and why significant preparation was essential.
Dr. Arvind Kumar explained the most critical water challenged that the region
faces. These challenges include: Population explosion, Climate change, Deteriorating
water quality, More energy demand and Deteriorating river ecology. He proceeded
to explain that water was closely associated with all the major challenges that the
region faced. He discussed the reengineering of water governance and shared some
examples of success stories. Mr. Kumar shared his approach for regional
cooperation on this important issue and why it was so critical towards the region’s
success. Finally, Mr. Kumar discussed the way forward for the region, which
included the need for establishment of a regional water hub as well as the
adaptation to the inevitable environmental shift.
Mr. Hongpeng Liu discussed regional cooperation on water issues to support
sustainable development. He explained some of the water challenges in the Asia
Pacific. For example, India, China, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan account for
nearly half to the global water usage. Mr. Liu outlined the way forward that included
the following steps: (Re) articulation of legal framework, Capacity building,
Increased monitoring/assessment, Knowledge gathering and sharing Cross-sector
and regional cooperation.
Prof. Santosh Kumar focused on water and human development challenges in the
context of disasters. He discussed the vulnerability factors, potential risks, impact on
public health, development in climate change action, as well as disaster
management in South Asia. He concluded with the ‘way ahead’ where he stressed
the need to strengthen regional bodies and institutions, data sharing, and regional
response and mitigation systems.
Concluding Session:
The policy dialogue concluded with Dr. Nagesh Kumar drawing a few key
highlights underlining the role of regional cooperation in fostering inclusive
and sustainable development of South Asian countries. He thanked all the
resource persons and members of the audience for the rich discussion
throughout the policy dialogue..
The policy dialogue brought forward some key lessons and recommendations on
regional cooperation in transport sector, trade, food and energy security.
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Agenda
DAY 1: 28 November 2013
09:30 – 10:00
Registration
10:00 – 11:00
Opening Session
Opening statement: Dr. Nagesh Kumar, Director, ESCAP-SSWA
Special address: H.E. Mr. Mohammad Tariq Ismati, Deputy
Minister, Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development,
Afghanistan
Launch of new publications by the dignitaries
Inaugural address: H.E. Dr. E.M.S. Natchiappan, Minister of
State for Commerce and Industry, Government of India
Vote of thanks: Ms. Lise Grande, United Nations Resident
Coordinator, India
11:00 – 11:30
Group Photo and Tea and coffee break
11:30 – 13:00
Session 1: High-level Panel on Potential of Regional
Cooperation, Connectivity and Inclusive Development
Chair: H.E. Mr. Qaiser Shaikh, Member of National Assembly,
Pakistan
High-level Panelists
Dr. Saman Kelegama, Executive Director, Institute of Policy
Studies of Sri Lanka
Amb. M. Humayun Kabir, Vice President, Bangladesh
Enterprise Institute, Dhaka
Amb. Shafqat Kakakhel, Chairman, Board of Governors,
Sustainable Development Policy Institute, Islamabad
Ms. L. Savithri, Director, SAARC Secretariat, Kathmandu
Key recommendations from ESCAP/SCWEC/FICCI Flo South
Asia Policy Dialogue on Women Entrepreneurship: Ms.
Pramila Acharya Rijal, Chairperson, SAARC Chamber Women
Entrepreneurs Council, Kathmandu
Open discussion
13:00 – 14:00
Lunch
14:00 –15:30
Session 2: Strengthening Regional Connectivity, Transport
and Trade Facilitation
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Chair – Mr. Abolghasem Tahmasebi, Deputy Secretary
General, Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO Secretariat),
Tehran
Panelists
Mr. Ussal Sahbaz, Adviser, Economic Policy Foundation
(TEPAV), Turkey
Dr. Shaheen Afroze, Research Director, Bangladesh Institute of
International and Strategic Studies, Dhaka
Mr. TCA Srinivasa Raghavan, Senior Fellow, Asian Institute of
Transport Development, New Delhi
Mr. Y.S. Shahrawat, Chairman, Land Ports Authority,
Government of India
Mr. T.A. Khan, Controller of Certifying Authorities, Ministry of
Communications and Information Technology, Govt of India and
Vice Chairman, UN/CEFACT
Mr. Sandeep Raj Jain, Economic Affairs Officer, Transport
Division, UNESCAP, Bangkok
Mr. Bipul Chatterjee, Deputy Executive Director, CUTS
International, Jaipur
Open discussion
15:30 – 16:00
Tea and coffee break
16:00 – 17:30
Session 3: Launch of Asia-Pacific Trade and Investment
Report 2013
Chair: Mr. Sumanta Chaudhuri, Joint Secretary, Ministry of
Commerce and Industry, Government of India
Presentation: Dr. Mia Mikic, Chief (TPAS), Trade and
Investment Division, UNESCAP, Bangkok
Panelists:
Dr. Poshraj Pandey, Executive Chairman, SAWTEE, Kathmandu
Mr. Manab Majumdar, Assistant Secretary-General, FICCI, New
Delhi
Dr. Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Additional Director,
Research, Centre for Policy Dialogue, Dhaka
Prof. Sajal Mathur, Centre for WTO Studies, Indian Institute of
Foreign Trade, New Delhi
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Open discussion
19:30
Reception and Dinner ( Hall 2020, 20th Floor, Le Meridien
Hotel)
Screening of the film Highway to 21st Century, by Suhas Borker
DAY 2: 29 November 2013
10:00 – 11:30
Session 4: Regional Cooperation Agenda for Food Security
Chair – Prof. G.K. Chadha, President, South Asian University, New
Delhi
Panelists
Amb. Shafqat Kakakhel, Chairman, Board of Governors,
Sustainable Development Policy Institute, Islamabad
Dr. Poshraj Pandey, Executive Director, SAWTEE, Kathmandu
Dr. Saman Kelegama, Executive Director, Institute of Policy
Studies of Sri Lanka
Dr. S. Mahendra Dev, Director (Vice-Chancellor), Indira Gandhi
Institute of Development Research, Mumbai
Mr. Muhammad Al Amin, Senior Research Associate, Centre for
Policy Dialogue, Dhaka
Mr. Matthew Hammill, Economic Affairs Officer, ESCAP-SSWA
Open discussion
11:30 – 11:45
11:45 – 13:00
Tea and coffee break
Session 5: Regional Cooperation for Energy Security
Chair: H.E. Mr. Mohammad Tariq Ismati, Deputy Minister,
Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD),
Afghanistan
Panelists
Dr. Jyoti K. Parikh, Executive Director, Integrated Research and
Action for Development (IRADe), New Delhi
Dr. Leena Srivastava, Vice Chancellor & Professor, TERI
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University, New Delhi
Mr. Hongpeng Liu, Chief (ESWRS) Environment and Development
Division, UNESCAP, Bangkok
Open discussion
13:00 – 14:00
Lunch
14:00 – 15:30
Session 6: Special Session on Regional Cooperation, Human
Development and Water
Launch of Human Development in South Asia 2013: Water for
Human Development
(in collaboration with Mahbub-ul-Haq Human Development
Centre and the India Water Foundation)
Chair – Ms. Stuti Kakkar, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice
and Empowerment, Government of India
Presentation of the Report: H.E. Mr. Qaiser Shaikh, Member of
National Assembly, Pakistan and Member of the Board, Mahbub-ulHaq Human Development Centre, Lahore
Panelists
Dr. Arvind Kumar, President, India Water Foundation, New Delhi
Mr. Hongpeng Liu, Chief (ESWRS) Environment and Development
Division, UNESCAP, Bangkok
Prof. Santosh Kumar, Director, SAARC Disaster Management
Centre, Delhi
15:30 – 16:00
Concluding Session
16:00
Tea and coffee served
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List of Participants
Afghanistan
H.E. Mr Mohammad Tariq Ismati, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Ruaral Rehabilitation
and Development (MRRD), Afghanistan. Tel: +93 (0) 790011038
Ms. Kamela Sidiqi, Chief Executive Officer, Kaweyan Business Development Services,
Kabul
Bangladesh
Amb. Humayun Kabir, Vice President, Bangladesh Enterprise Institute.
Dr. Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Additional Director, Research, Center for Policy
Dialogue (CPD), Bangladesh
Mr. Muhammad Al Amin, Senior Research Associate, Center for Policy
Dialogue(CPD), Bangladesh
Dr. Shaheen Afroze, Research Director, Bangladesh Institute of International and
Strategic Studies, Dhaka
Ms. Selima Ahmad, Founder President, Bangladesh Women Chamber of Commerce &
Industry
Bhutan
Ms. Damchae Dem, Bhutan Association of Women Entrepreneurs (BAOWE)
India
Mr. Sumanta Chaudhuri, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of
Commerce and Industry, Government of India
Mr. Y.S. Shahrawat, Chairman, Land Ports Authority, Government of India
Prof. S. Mahendra Dev, Director (Vice- Chancellor), Indira Gandhi Institute of
Development Research, Mumbai
Ms. Stuti Kakkar IAS, Secretary, Department of Disability Affairs, Ministry of Social
Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, New Delhi
Mr. T.C.A. Srinivasa Raghavan, Senior Fellow, Asian Institute of Transport
Development, New Delhi
17
Mr. T.A Khan, Controller of Certifying Authorities, Ministry of Communications and
Information Technology, Govt of India and Vice Chairman, UN/CEFACT, New Delhi
Dr. Arvind Kumar, President, India Water Foundation, South Extension Part-II, New
Delhi
Prof. Santosh Kumar, Director, SAARC Disaster Management Centre, Delhi
Dr. Leena Srivastava, Hony.Executive Director (Operations), TERI, Vice Chancellor,
TERI University, Plot No. 10 Institutional Area, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi - 110 070
Prof. Sajal Mathur, Centre for WTO Studies, Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, New
Delhi
Dr. Jyoti Parikh, Executive Director, Integrated Research and Action for
Development (IRADe), C-50, Asian Games Village Complex, Khelgaon, New Delhi110049
Islamic Republic of Iran
Mr. M.Ajam, Second Counsellor, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran,
Maldives
Ms. Fathimath Sheereen Ibrahim, CEO, Efes Institute of Cakes, Decorations and Arts,
Maldives
Ms. Nasreen Ibrahim, Efes Institute of Cakes, Decorations and Arts, Maldives
Nepal
Dr. Poshraj Pandey, Executive Director, SAWTEE, Kathmandu
Ms Pramila Acharya Rijal Chairperson, SAARC Chamber Women Entrepreneurs
Council, Kathmandu
Pakistan
H.E. Mr Qaiser Shaikh, Member of National Assembly, Pakistan and Member of the
Board, Mahbub-ul-Haq Human Development Centre, Lahore.
Amb. Shafaqat Kakakhel, former Deputy Executive Director of UNEP and Chair, SDPI
Board of Governors, Islamabad, Pakistan
18
Ms. Shamama Arbab, Peshawar Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry,
Pakistan
Ms. Aasia Saail Khan, Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Sri Lanka
Dr. Saman Kelegama, Executive Director, Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka
Ms. Janaki Gunawardena, Founder/President, Business and Professional Women, Sri
Lanka
Ms. Fathuma Ameena Rezani Aziz, Sri Lanka
Ms. Manel Chitra Atukorale, Business and Professional Women, Sri Lanka
Mr. Kapila Fonseka, Minister, High Commission for the Democratic Socialist
Republic of Sri Lanka, 27 Kautilya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
Turkey
Mr. Ussal Sahbaz, Adviser, Economic Policy Foundation (TEPAV), Turkey.
Ms. Feride Inan, Economic Policy Research Foundation of Turkey (TEPAV), Turkey
Economic Cooperation Organization
Mr. Abolghasem Tahmasebi, Deputy Secretary General, Economic Cooperation
Organization (ECO) Secretariat, No.1 Golbou Alley, Kamranieh, Tehran, Islamic
Republic of Iran. Tel: +98-21-22831733-4, 2229-2066; Fax: +98-21-22831732
SOUTH ASIAN ASSOCIATION FOR REGIONAL COOPERATION (SAARC)
Ms. L. Savithri, Director, SAARC Secretariat
SECRETARIAT
UNESCAP
Dr. Mia Mikic, Trade and Investment Division, UNESCAP, Bangkok
Mr. Hongpeng Liu, Chief (ESWRS) Environment and Development Division,
UNESCAP, Bangkok
19
Mr. Sandeep Raj Jain, Economic Affairs Officer, Transport Division, UNESCAP,
Bangkok
Mr. Michael Williamson, Head, Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology
(APCTT), New Delhi – 110 016.
ESCAP SOUTH AND SOUTH-WEST ASIA OFFICE
Dr. Nagesh Kumar, Chief Economist of ESCAP and Director, ESCAP South and SouthWest Asia Office, New Delhi 110 016
Dr. Dayaratna Silva, Deputy Director, ESCAP South and South-West Asia Office, New
Delhi 110 016
Mr. Matthew Hammill, Economic Affairs Officer, ESCAP South and South-West Asia
Office, New Delhi 110 016
Ms. Wanphen Sreshthaputri Korotki, Social Affairs Officer, ESCAP South and SouthWest Asia Office, New Delhi 110 016
Ms. Ivana Brnovic, Associate Economic Affairs Officer, ESCAP South and South-West
Asia Office, New Delhi 110 016
Dr. Manas Bhattacharyya, Senior Consultant, ESCAP South and South-West Asia
Office, New Delhi 110 016
SELECTED OTHER INVITEES
Mr. Adil Ali, Email: [email protected]
Mr. Afaq, Brief India, Email: [email protected]
Mr. Ajit K. Motwani, Advisor, Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat, Department of
Education, Government of Gujarat, 3rd Floor, Block 12, Dr. Jivraj Mehta Bhavan,
Gandhinagar. Email: [email protected]
Mr. Akshat Mishra, CUTS, Email: [email protected]
Mr. Ashok Marwah , Email: [email protected], Tel: 9838999323
Mr. Bipul Chattarji, CUTS, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9829285921
Ms. Caroline Mills, AusAid, Email: [email protected]
Ms. Chiara Palro, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9650899696
20
Mr. Dinoj K Upadhyay, Email: [email protected]
Ms. G. Mishra, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9899649844
Mr. I.N Mukherji, Formerly Professor of South Asian Studies and Dean School of
International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi & Senior Consultant,
Research and Information System for Developing Countries, Core 4-B, India Habitat
Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi 110003.); Tel:: 9811903148, Res: 01244255778
Ms. Josefina Oraa, AANK, 11 Zakir Bagh, Tower 1, New Delhi 110025. Email:
[email protected], Tel: 9810614088
Ms. Jyoti Chandiramani, Director, Symbiosis School of Economics, Pune. Email:
[email protected]; [email protected]
Mr. J.K Bassin, Tel: 9873038089
Mr. J.S. Samra, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9650620999.
Ms. Lipika Sud, All India Governing Body Member, Federation of Indian Chambers of
Commerce & Industry (FICCI - FLO), Email: [email protected]
Ms. Manju Malyani, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9312345598
Mr. Md. Absar Alam, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9716691772
Mr. Md. Alauddin, Email: [email protected]
Mr M.P Bezbaruah, Email: [email protected], Tel: 09810623627
Mr. Nalin Surie, Vice President, The Association of Indian Diplomats, 'Sapru House',
Barakhamba Road, New Delhi–110001. Tel:: 9560963199; Fax: +
911123359182 Email: [email protected]; association@diplo
mats.com
Mr. Naushad Ali Azad, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9811104253.
Ms. Neeru Batra, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9899457101
Ms. Neelima Srivastav, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9868174050
Ms. Nikita Singla, Email: [email protected], Tel: 8527006468
Ms. Nina Dey Gupta, Tel: 9811281607
21
Ms. Nitya Batra, Email: nityabta2gmail.com, Tel: 9555343920
Ms. Palakh Jain, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9818569723
Mr. Pankaj Sharma, Email: [email protected] , Tel: 9810730015
Mr. Parth Joshi, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9711796308
Mr. P.Sharma, CUTS, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9887260170
Ms. R Kaur, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9811041187
Mr. Ramesh Chopra, Email: [email protected]
Mr. Sayed Mujtaba Ahmedi, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9971666873
Mr. S.C Dhiman, Tel: 9868218549
Mr. S.K Chakraborty, DSIR, Government of India. Tel: 9910209847
Ms. Shilpi Kapur, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9910053404
Mr. Suhas Borker, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9811022844
Mr. Sushi Singh, Tel: 9811147779
Mr. Sohan P Shah, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9650965292, 7838275788
Mr. S.P Tripathi, Tel: 9899075324
Prof. S. Sitaraman, Amity University, Email:
9717150026
[email protected], Tel:
Ms. Tripta Garg, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9999648112
Mr. Tushar Pandey, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9810706748.
Ms. Yathi Arya, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9212109577
Dr. Yogesh Suri, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9810032852
Mr. Viju.V.V, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9990155295.
Mr. VK Garg, Email: [email protected], Tel: 9810501179
Gen. Vinod Sehgal, EcoMonitors Society
22
Dr Ram Gopal Agarwal, RIS
Dr Aradhna Aggarwal, NCAER
OBSERVERS
Students of South Asian University, New Delhi
Mr. Ahmad Shah Mobariz, SAU, [email protected], 8826449065
Ms. Beni Chugh, E-mail: [email protected]
Ms. Gauri Khanduja, E-mail: [email protected]
Mr. Karan Singh, E-mail: [email protected]
Ms. Lavanya Ganesh, E-mail: [email protected]
Mr. Mamnur Rashid, E-mail: [email protected]
Mr. Mojtaba Modabber Jafari, E-mail: [email protected]
Mr. Nasir Ali, E-mail : [email protected]
Ms. Pankhuri Jha, E-mail: [email protected]
Mr. Ram Narayan Shreshta, E-mail: [email protected]
Ms. Sandhya Karna, E-mail: [email protected]
Mr. Santhirakumar Samithamby, E-mail: [email protected]
Ms. Shradha Jain, E-mail: [email protected]
Ms. Shweta Sharma, E-mail: [email protected]
Ms. Surbhi Kesar, E-mail: [email protected]
Mr. Vinod Ram Kishan, E-mail: [email protected]
Mr. Vishal Choudhury, E-mail: [email protected]
23