The objective of this regional workshop is to conclude the UNDA project on “Promoting Renewable Energy Investments for Climate Change Mitigation and Sustainable Development” by providing closing remarks about the implemented activities, an update on the RE projects portfolios from selected UN ESCWA and UNECE Member countries, and indications about the way forward to continue promoting RE investments in the two regions, using available instruments, and particularly, the “Sustainable Energy Marketplace” platform (http://marketplace.irena.org/) developed by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) as one of the main tools that facilitate Access to renewable energy projects in developing countries and identify potential funding sources. Moreover, support was provided by the UNDA project to enhance this platform that will be presented and discussed during the workshop.

The Executive Committee of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) will convene its third meeting, in Rabat, from 6 to 7 May 2017.  Representatives of ESCWA member states will participate in the meeting.

Countries suffering from conflict or political tension are very much dependent on successful peacebuilding interventions that would be geared towards preventing a relapse into conflict and ensuring sustainable peace and development. Key ingredients for effective interventions in the aftermath of conflict include the provision of basic safety and security, an inclusive political process, the provision of essential services, restoration of core government functions and economic revitalization.