This Bulletin presents data and statistical indicators on external trade in goods for ESCWA member countries. Data are presented in time series until 2012 and were drawn primarily from national sources, as well as from secondary sources where appropriate. This publication aims to provide policymakers, analysts, researchers and other users at the national, regional and international levels with global and detailed data on intraregional and international trade of member countries.

The meeting aims to prepare for the contribution of the Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for the Environment (CAMRE) in the 3rd Arab Forum on Sustainable Development and the 2nd United Nations Environment Assembly. 

The Committee on Social Development was established pursuant to resolution 198 (XVII) of 31 May 1994, which was adopted at the 17th Ministerial session of ESCWA and subsequently endorsed by the United Nations Economic and Social Council in its resolution 27/1994 of 26 July 1994. The Committee was established to enhance regional cooperation through the effective participation of relevant parties in member countries in planning and implementing the programme of work of ESCWA in the field of social development.

Beirut, 30 April, 2012 (ESCWA Communications and Information Unit)- The Arab Region is in search of a new development paradigm to ensure greater participation of the youth in economic and public life, focusing more on social justice and accountability. Thus, “The Role of Participation and Social Justice in Achieving Sustainable and Balanced Development” will be one of the main topics to be discussed in a ministerial round table during the ESCWA 27th Ministerial Session to be held under the auspices of Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Miqati on 9-10 May 2012.