UN chief urges Asia to alleviate poverty in preparation for MDG summit

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon on Tuesday called on Asia's political leaders to focus on efforts to alleviate poverty in the lead up to the high-level summit on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs,) set to take place here in September.

Ban made the remarks in a video message to the International Conference of Asian Political Parties, held in Beijing on Tuesday.

As the world and the Asia region continue to deal with the aftershock of the global financial crisis, Ban noted mixed signs of progress. "There are encouraging signs, but recovery is uneven, " he said.

Meanwhile, Ban urged leaders to take actions and collaborate their efforts.

"It is precarious. We need concrete action and cooperation at every level. You have come together to share experiences and forge solutions. This is vital," he added.

The secretary-general lauded the Asia and Pacific region for being home to some of "the world's largest and most dynamic economies," whose successes have lifted millions out of poverty.

Yet, "far too many remain" impoverished, Ban warned.

"Now is the time to invest in inclusive growth, in green growth, and in education, health and the empowerment of women," he said.

Ban said he looks forward to the input of all participants in the conference of Asian political parties in preparation to the MDG summit, which aims to generate momentum towards achieving the UN's eight anti-poverty targets by the 2015 deadline.

Source: Xinhua