Lajčák for innovative action to tackle global challenges

Manama : Extraordinary efforts will be required to overcome global challenges such as poverty, climate change and extremism, said Miroslav Lajčák, President of the 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) while speaking at the closing of World Entrepreneurs Forum yesterday. 

The three-day exhibition held at Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre opened on October 31 was attended by several experts and entrepreneurs from 90 countries.

“At a global level there are a lot of political and economic uncertainty. Many regions and countries face the threat of conflicts and instability. There is also multiple effects of climate change such as severe weather and disaster which could retard our development phase. We also face a global refugee crisis on an unprecedented scale. Unemployment, inequality, deforestation and terrorism are also other threats. In face of such extraordinary challenges, our response must also be extraordinary. Poverty will not disappear just by wishing it away. Instead you need to take focused and innovative action,” he said.

“No country or region can face the challenges alone. This forum has been a unique opportunity to forge partnerships, exchange ideas, share best practices and explore options for mobilizing financial resources,” he said, adding, “We must offer better incentives to entrepreneurs to invest in SDGs. This will help unleash and foster a dynamic private sector and ensure competitiveness. “

“Entrepreneurs, men and women alike, are the force that are driving us to the future and the innovators that are able to help scientists creatively adapt to change in the digital revolution.  Entrepreneurship creates jobs, powers economies and achieves social aims,” said  Amin El Sharkawi, United Nations Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative.