International Experience Exchange: Moscow Delegation’s Work at the Forum in Bangkok
From February 24 to 27, the delegation of the Government of Moscow took part in the 13th Asia‑Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development in Bangkok. During the event, representatives of the capital presented to international partners successful practices in the implementation of urban government programs aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Russia’s national priorities, and also discussed prospects for further cooperation.
On the sidelines of the forum, the exposition of the Government of Moscow was on display, showcasing successful practices in social and technological development: the construction of the Moscow metro and transport system modernization, housing renewal under the renovation program, the integration of e‑services into the daily lives of Muscovites, energy efficiency improvements, and utility infrastructure upgrades.
One of the central discussions at the forum was a session organized by the Russian Association for the UN and MGIMO University with the support of the Moscow Government and the participation of UN ESCAP representatives, Russian regions, and businesses – “The Private Sector’s Contribution to Transformative and Coordinated Actions for the Implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the UN SDGs in the Asia‑Pacific Region.”
Tatiana Naumova, Deputy Head of the Department for External Economic and International Relations of Moscow, spoke to participants about the support measures available to the capital’s entrepreneurs and manufacturing companies: “Moscow is home to a large number of companies demonstrating progress in achieving sustainable development indicators. It is important to emphasize the role of the private sector as one of the key actors in implementing this agenda.” She noted that a significant portion of the capital’s budget is allocated to achieving the SDGs, including economic development and improving the quality of life of citizens.
The conference served as a platform for dialogue and fruitful cooperation among representatives of countries, cities, and organizations in the Asia‑Pacific region. The Moscow delegation held a series of meetings aimed at developing targeted cooperation with relevant departments and subregional offices of ESCAP.
Together with Ganbold Baasankhav, Director of the ESCAP Subregional Office for East and North‑East Asia and Head of the NEASPEC Secretariat, and representatives of the Russian Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the delegation discussed the preparation of joint projects and expert initiatives aimed at the region’s environmental development. A key topic was the hosting in Moscow of a number of international events as part of Russia’s chairmanship of the NEASPEC program in 2026.
During meetings on the forum’s sidelines, Sangmin Nam, Director of the ESCAP Environment and Development Division, and Srinivas Tata, Director of the ESCAP Social Development Division, were introduced to Moscow’s successful practices aligned with the Sustainable Development Agenda:
“The heads of ESCAP’s relevant divisions expressed interest in continuing dialogue, exchanging knowledge and practices with the Government of Moscow, and expanding cooperation both on the multilateral ESCAP platform and bilaterally. Particular interest was shown in urban projects in ecology and climate, digital solutions, and social programs,” shared Tatiana Naumova, summing up the delegation’s work in Bangkok.