The importance of sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure cannot be overstated. It serves as a fundamental pillar for achieving inclusive and sustainable growth, realizing the objectives outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and meeting the targets established in the Paris Agreement. In the wake of the global pandemic, the role of infrastructure in rebuilding economies has become even more significant. Consequently, there is an urgent need to enhance investments in sustainable infrastructure and address substantial deficiencies in infrastructure services, particularly in emerging markets and developing countries.

To confront this challenge head-on, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is collaborating with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to co-organize the "Ninth Meeting of the Infrastructure Financing and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) Network of Asia and the Pacific". The primary objective of this meeting is to foster investment in sustainable infrastructure development across the Asia and Pacific region by leveraging effective infrastructure financing and PPP mechanisms.

ESCAP remains committed to facilitating its member states in promoting sustainable infrastructure development within our region, thereby accelerating progress towards the SDGs and attaining the 2030 Agenda. Against this backdrop, this meeting will serve as a valuable platform for governments to showcase their infrastructure projects that are financially viable and align seamlessly with the SDGs.