Manila: The High-Level Conference of Middle-Income Countries (MICs) began on Monday, bringing together representatives to address current challenges and strategies for sustaining growth amidst global uncertainties. In his opening remarks, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo emphasized that this is the first time the conference is being held in Asia, with previous meetings taking place in Spain, El Salvador, Namibia, Jordan, Belarus, Costa Rica, and Morocco from 2007 to 2024.
According to Philippines News Agency, Manalo highlighted the importance of sustained dialogue to support the growth practices of middle-income countries through strategic solutions. He stressed the necessity for these nations to unite in overcoming internal and external challenges to achieve their national development goals within an acceptable timeframe.
Manalo urged leaders to adopt solutions tailored to evolving contexts and needs, advocating for the replacement of outdated metrics and development models with more robust, inclusive approaches and partnerships. He also emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable economic growth through social protection programs, strengthening national institutions, improving educational access, and integrating climate resilience into policies.
UN Undersecretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana echoed Manalo's sentiments, noting that MICs comprise a significant portion of the global population and economy. He highlighted their critical role in steering the global trajectory towards sustainable development, with 41 out of 53 ESCAP members being MICs, home to 75 percent of the global population and 62 percent of the world's poor.
Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan highlighted the need for an inclusive international development agenda. Balisacan emphasized the importance of dynamic actions to sustain progress, including efficient trade transitions, fostering resilience, and harnessing innovation. He outlined the Philippines' commitment to achieving these goals through targeted instruments, strengthening institutions, and revitalizing partnerships.
The two-day event at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel gathers leaders and UN delegations for panel discussions under the theme 'Breaking New Grounds Towards a Strategic Plan of Action for Middle Income Countries.'
