80th session of the Commission

Ambassador Dennis Francis has had a career spanning approximately 40 years in the Diplomatic Service of Trinidad and Tobago. For 18 of those years of unbroken service, he held the rank of ambassador until his compulsory retirement from career service in 2016. According to Mr. Francis, he has the distinction of being his country’s longest-serving ambassador. Before demitting office as Director of Multilateral Relations, he functioned as Senior Adviser to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on all multilateral-level matters, including climate change and the negotiations on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

His transfer back to Port of Spain in 2011 capped Ambassador Francis’ posting as Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Geneva, as well as Permanent Representative to the World Trade Organization and to the UN Human Rights Council. He was also accredited concurrently to the U.N. Specialized Agencies in Vienna and Rome, besides having bilateral accreditation as Ambassador to Austria and Italy. Ambassador Francis was also appointed Permanent Delegate to UNESCO. 

In 2010 at a period of renewed engagement in Multilateral Trade Negotiations, Ambassador Francis was elected to the sensitive Chairmanship of the Negotiating Group on Rules of the WTO, namely Anti-Dumping, Subsidies and Countervailing Duties and Fisheries Subsidies. He also served as Chairman of the Committee on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights in Regular Session as well as Chairman of the Commonwealth Group of Developing Countries (2007-2008). 

He has led many national delegations including to the First Universal Periodic Review of Trinidad and Tobago in the UN Human Rights Council in October 2011 and to UNCTAD 12, which was held in Accra, Ghana in 2008. 

Ambassador Francis’ assignment in Geneva in 2006 followed a seven-year tour of duty as High Commissioner of Trinidad and Tobago to Jamaica and Permanent Representative to the International Seabed Authority. During this period, Ambassador Francis was also accredited as Ambassador (non-resident) to the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Cuba. When he demitted office in Jamaica, he had held the position of Dean of the Diplomatic Corps for almost two years. Ambassador Francis took an active interest in the issues before the International Seabed Authority, leading to his election to the Chairmanship of the Assembly in 2003. 

In July of 2021, he completed a three-year assignment as Chairman of the Trinidad and Tobago National Commission for UNESCO. 

Ambassador Francis co-facilitated a training course entitled “Protocol and Diplomacy: A Guide for the Modern Professional,” at the Diplomatic Academy of the Caribbean; an institution in the conceptualization of which he was intimately involved as Lead Technical Adviser to the Foreign Minister. In 2018, Ambassador Francis also co-authored a book entitled “Heads of Mission-A Handbook,” which has received regional and international acclaim. In 2020, Ambassador Francis returned to The University of the West Indies, his alma mater, as a Visiting Scholar at the Institute of International Relations at the St. Augustine Campus. He is also a graduate of The School of Advanced International Studies, the Johns Hopkins University in Washington DC. (1985). 

Ambassador Francis is married to his best friend, Joy Thomas-Francis and they have three adult sons. 

Written Bio according to last year’s example 

His Excellency Mr. Dennis Francis was elected President of the seventy-eighth session of the United Nations General Assembly, serving from September 2023 until September 2024.  

With a diplomatic career spanning approximately 40 years, Mr. Francis has significantly contributed to Trinidad and Tobago's diplomatic efforts. For 18 years, he held the rank of Ambassador, making him the country's longest-serving Ambassador until his compulsory retirement in 2016. 

Mr. Francis's notable assignments include serving as Permanent Representative of Trinidad and Tobago to the United Nations Office at Geneva, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the Human Rights Council. He also held concurrent accreditations to specialized agencies of the United Nations system in Vienna and Rome, as well as Ambassadorial positions to Austria and Italy.  

His leadership roles in international trade negotiations, particularly as Chairman of the WTO Negotiating Group on Rules, underscore his expertise in anti-dumping, subsidies, countervailing measures, and intellectual property rights. 

Mr. Francis has led various national delegations, including Trinidad and Tobago's first universal periodic review in the Human Rights Council in 2011 and the twelfth session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in 2008. His tenure as High Commissioner to Jamaica and Permanent Representative to the International Seabed Authority further highlights his diverse diplomatic portfolio. Additionally, he has contributed to academic and professional development in diplomacy, co-authoring a handbook and serving as a visiting scholar at the University of the West Indies. 

On 5th September 2023, Mr Francis officially assumed his role as President of the seventy-eighth session of the UNGA, with his first Plenary Meeting highlighting his commitment to representing Trinidad and Tobago's values on the global stage. His presidency focuses on rebuilding trust, reigniting global solidarity, and accelerating action towards Sustainable Development Goals, under the theme “Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability for all.” 

Ms. Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana was appointed Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) on 13 September 2018.

Prior to joining ESCAP, Ms. Alisjahbana was Professor of Economics at Universitas Padjadjaran in Bandung, Indonesia, a position she assumed in 2005. She joined Universitas Padjadjaran as a lecturer in 1988. Since 2016, she has served as Director for the Center for Sustainable Development Goals Studies at Universitas Padjadjaran and Vice Chair of the Indonesian Academy of Sciences.

She also serves on the Governing Board of the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), and member of the Indonesian Academy of Sciences (Akademi Ilmu Pengetahuan Indonesia - AIPI), the Forum of Statistics Community (Forum Masyarakat Statistik or Advisory Council of the Indonesian Statistics), the International Advisory Board of the Bulletin of Indonesian Economic Studies and Council Member of the Regional Science Association International (RSAI).

From 2009 to 2014, she was Minister of National Development Planning and the Head of the National Development Planning Agency (BAPPENAS), Indonesia. She served as Co-chair of the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation from 2012 to 2014. From 2009 to 2014, she was Alternate Governor of the World Bank and Alternate Governor of the Asian Development Bank representing the government of Indonesia. In 2016, she was a member of the High Level Independent Team of Advisors to support the ECOSOC Dialogue on the longer term positioning of the United Nations Development System in the context of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development.

Ms. Alisjahbana has been involved in various research projects and consultancies to the United Nations University/Institute for Advanced Study in Tokyo, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Australia, the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), the European Commission, and the International Labor Organization (ILO).

Ms. Alisjahbana earned her Bachelor degree in Economics and Development Studies from Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia, a Masters degree in Economics from Northwestern University, USA and a Ph.D in Economics from University of Washington, USA. She was awarded the Mahaputra Adipradana Order (Bintang Mahaputra Adipradana) from the Republic of Indonesia, honorary brevet from the Indonesian Navy and honorary flight wing from the Indonesian Air Force.

Sheikh Hasina 
Hon'ble Prime Minister of the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh 

The Awami League-led 14-party alliance won an absolute victory in the 12th National Parliament election held on January 07, 2024. On January 11, Awami League (AL) President Sheikh Hasina sworn in as the Prime Minister of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh for the fifth time including fourth consecutive time. 

Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, assumed the office on 7 January 2019 for the fourth time after her party Awami League-led grand alliance won the December 30, 2018 11th Parliamentary elections. 

Earlier, she served as Prime Minister for the first time in 1996-2001, second term in 2009-2013 and the third term in 2014-2018. Sheikh Hasina was the Leader of the Opposition in the 4th, 5th and 8th Parliaments. 

Sheikh Hasina initiated a mass movement against the voter-less election held by BNP on February 15, 1996 and forced the government of Khaleda Zia to quit power on March 30, 1996. 

Sheikh Hasina is a staunch crusader against fundamentalism, militancy and terrorism. Assuming the office on January 6 in 2009, her government enacted laws leading to constitute the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) for the trial of crimes against humanity done during the liberation war of Bangladesh in 1971. The tribunal began the investigation and prosecution of the suspected war criminals and a number of verdicts has been given and executed. 

Sheikh Hasina, the eldest of five children of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was born on 28 September 1947 at Tungipara in Gopalganj district. 

She graduated from the University of Dhaka in 1973. She has a checkered political career. She was elected vice president of the Students Union of the Government Intermediate Girl's College when she contested as a candidate from Students League. Later, she served as secretary and then as president of college unit of Student League. 

She was also a member of Students League in Dhaka University and became the secretary of Rokeya Hall unit. She actively participated in all mass movements from her student life. 

Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman along with the members of his family was brutally assassinated on the fateful night of August 15, 1975. Sheikh Hasina and her younger sister Sheikh Rehana were the only survivors as they were in West Germany at that time. Later, she went to the United Kingdom from where she started movement against the autocratic rule in 1980. Sheikh Hasina was unanimously elected as president of Bangladesh Awami League in 1981 in her absence while she was in forced exile. She finally returned home on May 17, 1981 ending her six years in exile. 

Sheikh Hasina faced the wrath of the rulers on her return as she launched movement to restore democracy in the country. She was detained time and again, and at least 22 attempts were made on her life so far. 

The military government interned her for 15 days after arresting on February 15, 1983. She was under house arrest twice in February and November in 1984. 

Sheikh Hasina was arrested again on March 2, 1985 and was confined for three months. She was again arrested on October 15, 1986 and left under house arrest for 15 days. Later, police arrested her on November 11, 1987 and interned for a month. 

She was detained again on February 27, 1989 and November 27, 1990. The military backed caretaker government arrested Sheikh Hasina on July 16, 2007 and confined her at a sub-jail set up on the parliament premises. She was released on June 11, nearly after a year.  

Notable attempts to assassinate Sheikh Hasina include firing by police on November 10, 1987 during a ‘gherao’ programme of the Secretariat. Juba League leaders Nur Hossain, Babul and Fattah were killed in the incident. An attempt was made to lift the car with a crane along with Sheikh Hasina in front of the National Press Club. 

Police opened fire targeting Sheikh Hasina and charged batons in front of Chittagong Court Building on January 24, 1988 during rule of president Ershad. At least 30 leaders and workers of Awami League were killed in that incident. Twice she was targeted with gunfire while delivering speech at Laldighi Maidan. Her car was come under gunfire while returning from the public meeting at Laldighi Maidan. 

During BNP’s regime, Sheikh Hasina repeatedly confronted gun attacks. Miscreants fired on September 11, 1991 while she was visiting a polling centre in the capital’s Kalabagan area. A series of gunshots hit her carriage at Ishwardi railway station while she was traveling by train in 1994. In 2000, two bombs weighing 76 kgs and 84 kgs were planted at Kotalipara helipad, and at her place for public meeting in a bid to kill her. She survived as the bombs were detected prior to her arrival. The gravest attempt made on Sheikh Hasina’s life was on August 21, 2004. On the day, a dozen of Arges grenades were charged on her rally at Bangabandhu Avenue. Although Sheikh Hasina narrowly escaped, the gruesome attack left 22 leaders and workers of Awami League dead, including central leader Ivy Rahman. As a consequence, Sheikh Hasina’s hearing capability was impaired. 

Sheikh Hasina continued her struggle and remained undaunted to ensure people’s right to food, vote and other fundamental rights ignoring numerous obstacles, including threat on her life. Under her leadership, people of Bangladesh achieved democracy and freedom of speech. Bangladesh graduated to developing country from LDCs. 

The country achieved tremendous success in socio-economic fronts during her tenure. In 1996-2001 term, Sheikh Hasina’s government achieved laudable successes in many fields, the most significant being the 30-year Ganges Water Sharing Treaty with India; the Peace Accord on Chittagong Hill Tracts; construction of Bangabandhu Bridge; and ensuring food security. She also introduced beneficial programme for farmers, and social safety nets for the distressed, landless and deprived people. These include allowances for distressed women, widows, disabled and freedom fighters; Ashrayan for the homeless and “One house-One farm” scheme. 

During her term in 2009–2013, Sheikh Hasina’s government’s achievements included increased power production capacity to 13,260 MW; GDP growth over 6%; elevation of 5 crore people to middle-income group; resolving maritime boundary dispute with Myanmar and India, digital centers at all union parisads; distribution of free text books among the students upto secondary level, distribution of agri-cards and scope to open bank accounts with Tk 10 only for farmers, slump in poverty level to 24.3 percent in 2013-14 which was 38.4 in 2006; and adoption of her peace model by  UN resolution. 

During 2014-2018, her government’s landmark achievements included the following: elevating the country to lower middle-income status, adoption of Land Boundary Agreement by Indian parliament resolving the 68 years long border dispute; raising per capita income to USD 1,602; decreasing poverty rate to 22.4 percent, raising forex reserve over USD 32 billion, launching implementation of Padma bridge with own fund and sending Bangabandhu Satellite-1 in the orbit. 

In the fourth term from 2019 to date, her government’s achievements include: Bangladesh’s graduation to developing country from LDC, inauguration of the Padma Bridge with own fund, trial run of Metro-rail in Dhaka. The connecting roads of several districts with Dhaka have been turned into four lanes, work on tunnel under the river Karnaphuli in Chittagong, Ruppur Nuclear Power plant and Matarbari multi-purpose project is progressing fast. Work on a good number of the proposed 100 SEZs and ICT parks at every division is going on. Current per capita income has risen to 2,824.   

Different reputed universities and institutions across the world conferred various degrees upon her for the outstanding contribution to peace building, upholding democracy and socio-economic development. 

She was conferred honorary doctorate by Boston University, Bridgeport University, Barry University in the USA; Waseda University in Japan; University of Abertay in Scotland; Vishwa-Bharati University and Tripura University in India; Australian National University; Catholic University of Brussels; People’s Friendship University and State University of Petersburg in Russia; Dhaka University and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agriculture University. The University of Dauphine in France conferred diploma on her for her outstanding contribution to strengthen democratic process and empowerment of women. 

Sheikh Hasina was also honoured with awards for her outstanding contributions to social work, peace and stability. These include: UNESCO’s Houphouet-Boigny Peace Prize 1998; Pearl S Buck Award 1999; CERES Medal by FAO; Mother Teresa Award; MK Gandhi Award; Paul Harris Fellow; Indira Gandhi Peace Award 2009; Indira Gandhi Gold Plaque in Kolkata; Paul Haris Fellow by the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International, Medal of Distinction in 1996-97 and 1998-99 and Head of State Medal in 1996-97 by the International Association of Lions Clubs, Global Diversity Award in the UK; and two South-South Awards. UNESCO honoured her with "Tree of Peace" in recognition of her outstanding contribution to promotion of girls' and women's education on September 8, 2014, Award for Regional Leadership in Women’s Political Empowerment by Women in Parliaments Global Forum and Visionary Award by Global South-South Development Expo-2014. 

She was conferred on the United Nation’s highest environmental accolade ‘Champion of the Earth Award 2015’ in policy leadership category for her forefront role at home and abroad to face the adverse impacts of climate change. The International Telecommunication Union gave her the ‘ICTs in Sustainable Development Award 2015’ for her outstanding contributions in spreading information technology in the country. She was awarded with the Global Women’s Leadership Award on 27 April 2018. Institute of South Asian Women gave her Lifetime Contribution for Women Empowerment Award in 2019. She was awarded with the SDG Progress Award by SDSN in 2021. 

Sheikh Hasina was acknowledged as “the Voice of the Vulnerable” by the BBC during the COP-26 in November 2021. At the UN and the Commonwealth, she has been a strong advocate for mainstreaming the poorest and marginalized populations in Commonwealth’s shared future and SDGs. 

Sheikh Hasina has authored several books, including Sheikh Mujib is my Father, Why are they Street Children, The Origin of Autocracy, Miles to go, The Quest for Vision 2021 (two volumes), Elimination of Poverty and Some Thoughts, People and Democracy, My Dream My Struggle, Development for the Masses, Sada Kalo (Black and White) and Sabuj Math Periye (Crossing the Green Field), Mujib Banglar, Bangla Mujiber (Mujib belongs to Bangla, Banla belongs to Mujib) etc. 

Sheikh Hasina is the Chairperson of ‘The Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Memorial Trust.’ She believes in democracy, secularism, inclusive growth and progress, and dedicated her life to eliminate poverty and barriers that marginalize people. Her interest is in technology, cuisine, music and reading. 

Her husband, an internationally reputed nuclear scientist, Dr M Wazed Mia died on May 9, 2009. 

Sheikh Hasina’s only son Sajeeb Ahmed Wazed is an ICT expert. Her only daughter Saima Hossain Wazed is a psychologist and has been working for the betterment of autistic children. She has 7 grandchildren.

Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet 

Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia 

Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN MANET –​ born on October 20, 1977, in Memot District, Kampong Cham Province, during the Khmer Rouge regime –​ is a highly distinguished military leader who held significant positions within the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF). Notably, he served as the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the RCAF and the Commander of the Royal Cambodian Army (RCA), while also leading the National Counter-Terrorism Special Forces. 

His academic journey began in Phnom Penh, where he received his General Education in 1993. In 1995, Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET joined the RCAF and was subsequently admitted to the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point in the same year. A trailblazer, he was the first Cambodian to graduate from West Point in 1999 with a diploma and a bachelor’s degree in economics. Continuing his academic pursuits, he obtained a Master of Arts in Economics from New York University and a PhD in Economics from the University of Bristol. 

Throughout his military career, Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET has achieved remarkable feats, such as being appointed as the Commander of Cambodia’s National Headquarters of Counterterrorism Special Forces in 2008, where he played a pivotal role in bolstering Cambodia’s ability to counter terrorism. He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General in 2013 and assumed the position of Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the RCAF in 2018. In March 2023, he received the highest rank of a 4-Star General in recognition of his exceptional contributions and leadership in strengthening the army’s capabilities and enhancing the foreign relations in the field of defense. 

Beyond his military duties, Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET actively engages in social programs, notably serving as the Chief of the Samdech Techo Hun Sen Scholarship Committee and the Samdech Techo Scholarship Association. These organizations offer scholarship opportunities to numerous Cambodian youths, enabling them to pursue higher education within the country. Additionally, he chairs the Board of Directors of the Samdech Techo Youth Volunteer Doctor Association (TYDA), which mobilizes medical professionals, students, and volunteers to provide free healthcare services to rural Cambodians. 

Within the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET holds a prominent position in the party’s permanent committee and leads its central youth wing. He was democratically elected by the party as their official nominee for the esteemed position of Prime Minister in the future. Following the July 2023 election victory, His Majesty the King appointed Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia. 

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET has demonstrated exceptional leadership by effectively guiding the RCA in supporting the Royal Government of Cambodia’s efforts to combat the pandemic. His oversight of vaccination campaigns; establishment of quarantine and treatment centers; facilitation of transportation for incoming Cambodian workers at the borders; and management of Luong Me Hospital exemplifies his commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of the Cambodian people. 

Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET stands as an exemplary and astute leader, characterized by his remarkable intellect and unwavering dedication to his country and its citizens. His resolute commitment to national harmony, stability, and advancement, coupled with his resounding determination, epitomizes the quintessential attributes of a trustworthy, inspiring, and compassionate leader. His democratic election by the party as their designated candidate for the Prime Ministerial role serves as a testament to his proven capabilities. 

Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET is married to Dr. Pich Chanmony, and together, they are proud parents of three lovely children: Vorleak, Lyna, and Rithyseth. As he takes on the role of Prime Minister, the nation eagerly anticipates his continued dedication and leadership in advancing Cambodia’s prosperity and well-being. 

Education

2014: Honorary Ph.D. in Political Science, Ramkhamhaeng University, Thailand.

2013: Honorary Ph.D., Academy of Science and Technology of Vietnam.

2010-2013: Master of Economic Management, Lao National Academy of Politics and Public Administration.

2008-2009: Bachelor of Economic Management, Lao National Academy of Politics and Public Administration.

1994-1998: Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Education, National University of Lao PDR (NUOL).

1983-1987: Associate of Arts in Military Studies, Ukraine, Former USSR.

1982-1983: Training in Russian Language, Russian Scientific and Cultural Center in Vientiane, Lao PDR.

1976-1982: Secondary School, Viengxay District, Huaphan Province.

1972-1976: Primary School, Nong Noy 67, Nanning, China.

Working Experiences

30 December 2022 - Present: Prime Minister of the Lao PDR

2019 - 2022: Deputy Prime Minister of the Lao PDR and Minister of Planning and Investment

2016 - 2019: Deputy Prime Minister of the Lao PDR

2014 - 2016: Minister, Prime Minister’s Office

2000 - 2014: Governor of Champasak Province of the Lao PDR

1999 - 2000: Assistant to the Head of Division, General Staff Department, Ministry of National Defense of the Lao PDR

1989 - 1990: Deputy Director, General Staff Department, the Fifth Infantry Division

1987 - 1989: Deputy Director, General Staff Department, Ministry of National Defense of the Lao PDR

FERDINAND R. MARCOS JR.

The 17th President of the Republic of the Philippines

Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has dedicated his life to serving the Filipino people for over two decades. His long and faithful service has been one characterized by his genuine care for the welfare of his constituents, and a firm determination to elevate the quality of life of every Filipino.

Early Life

Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., commonly referred to as Bongbong and by the initials BBM, was born on the 13th of September 1957 in the town of Batac, Ilocos Norte.  He attended La Salle Greenhills elementary school (1964), and completed his secondary education at Worth School in West Sussex, England (1974).  He earned a Special Diploma in Social Studies from Oxford University (1978).  Bongbong subsequently enrolled at the Wharton School of Business for a Master of Business Administration, which was eventually cut short due to him being elected in 1980 as Vice Governor of his home province, Ilocos Norte.

Family

Bongbong is the only son and namesake of the late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. and former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos.  He has three sisters: Imee, Irene and Aimee.

In 1993, Bongbong married Louise “Liza” Cacho Araneta.  They are blessed with three children: Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro”, Joseph Simon and William Vincent “Vinny”.

Service Record

Governor (1983 to 1986; 1998 to 2007)

Ever-present and dominant throughout Bongbong’s upbringing was the idea of public service.  Having his youth and formative years spent in Malacañang and witnessing firsthand the single-minded dedication of his parents to serve country and people, he had determined from a very young age to devote his life to public service and the welfare of his people.

When the people of Ilocos Norte gave Bongbong their mandate and elected him Governor, his term was marked by a greater importance placed on improving the province’s agriculture; support for the establishment and operation of cooperatives that promote better market opportunities to local farmers; the construction of numerous agricultural processing and storage facilities; and a policy environment that encouraged and promoted greater investments in sustainable development and renewable sources of energy.

Bongbong’s openness and keen interest in promoting alternative and sustainable sources of energy was instrumental and consequential in attracting big-ticket renewable energy investments to the province.  His strong support and active push served as a key driver that led to the development of Southeast Asia’s first wind farm – the Bangui Windmills – establishing the province and the region as a leader and champion for a broader shift to renewable energy and the sustainable use of the country’s natural resources.

Congressman (1992 to 1995; 2007 to 2010)

When Bongbong served as Representative of the 2nd District of the Province of Ilocos Norte, he authored and co-authored several house bills and resolutions, most of which were of local scope and geared towards the needs of his constituency.

Bongbong advocated for the establishment of a special economic free port zone in Ilocos Norte to help spur economic growth and foreign investment in his home province. He also strongly lobbied for the inclusion of subjects on Nationalism in the curricula of primary, secondary, and tertiary schools, as well as for stronger government support for indigenous formal and informal learning systems.

Bongbong, having already established himself as a strong advocate for the responsible and sustainable use of natural resources and alternative or renewable sources of energy, filed House Bill No. 8617 on the establishment of a National Institute for Clean Energy Research.  The Bill aimed to provide Filipino scientists and engineers an environment that would support further training, research, and development of indigenous technologies that use renewable sources of power.

Senator (2010 to 2016)

During Bongbong’s time as a Senator of the Republic, he prioritized providing support to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) through the authorship of Senate Resolution No. 379, tasking the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations to look into the remedial measures taken by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in protecting the welfare and interests of OFWs and Filipinos seeking employment in Taiwan.

Bongbong also served for several years as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Government. Drawing from his considerable experience serving as Governor of his home province, he strongly advocated for greater Local Government reform and sought to empower them through the provision of more extensive, comprehensive, and responsive national government support.

True to form, he further committed his time in the Senate to pursue his aspiration of providing Filipinos with sustainable, affordable, and reliable energy through the Bills and Resolutions he filed such as:

Senate Bill No. 2593: Hydrogen Research, Promotion, And Development Act of 2010

Senate Bill No. 2885: Climate Change Education Act of 2011

Senate Bill No. 410: The Philippine Green Building Act

Senate Bill No. 2097: PAGASA Modernization Act (RA 10692)

Senate Resolution No. 622: Energy Infrastructure System

Undeterred by his defeat in 2016, and fully committed to his vision of a united Philippines, Bongbong decided to run for the highest office in government in 2022.  He has remained resolute in his desire to steward the Filipino people towards an era of progress and development.

His campaign for the Presidency was anchored on the theme of unity which found resonance in the hearts and minds of millions of Filipinos.  He invited them to co-create with him a country that prioritizes growth, collaboration, and a participatory society.  His campaign message of unity and people moving in unison, strived to give a voice to Filipinos all around the nation, who believe in a brighter future for themselves and their children; a vision embodied in his campaign slogan: sama-sama tayong babangon muli.

On the 9th of May 2022, over 50 million Filipinos turned out at polling stations in the largest demonstration of democracy the country has ever seen.  When the votes were counted, they revealed that 31 million Filipinos — 58% of those that actually voted — placed their trust in Bongbong Marcos, becoming elected with the largest vote count of any Presidential candidate in the nation’s history.

As President, Bongbong Marcos vows to be a leader for every Filipino and stands steadfast behind his vision of uniting the nation and delivering a brighter future for the people.

A New Era

President Bongbong chose windmills to represent his campaign as a universal symbol of hope and resilience. It signals a new era for the Philippines’ willingness and readiness to address pressing problems, and to re-energize development.  It is a token of Bongbong Marcos’s commitment to positive change and to giving new hope to all Filipinos.

This change is not a small endeavor and will require each and every Filipino to work together. BBM’s campaign rallied Filipinos under a message of unity, and that message will be the cornerstone of his policy agenda over the next six years.

Personal Information

Mr. Thavisin was born on February 15, 1962. He’s a former Chief Executive Officer and President, Sansiri Public Company Limited, the main driving leader of the organization.

Before joining Sansiri, Mr. Thavisin worked for Procter & Gamble, a large multinational corporation manufacturers and distributors of fast-moving consumer products (FMCG).

While running Sansiri with a broad vision and a comprehensive approach to business management, Mr.Thavisin had driven Sansiri strength to strength for almost 40 years and had also created confidence in the Sansiri brand among consumers along with being a leader in the creation of various standard settings.

Mr. Thavisin has always been a keen observer of the country's social agendas and has given ideas to create various activities to strengthen the economic and social foundation for the nation in many aspects, especially in pushing for social changes, supporting equality and diversity including in many projects related to children and youth.

Education

Mr. Thavisin graduated with a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Massachusetts and a master’s degree in Business Administration in Finance from Claremont Graduate School, USA.

Professional Career

2023 Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand

Chairman of the Pheu Thai Family Advisor

Consultant of the Pheu Thai Party Economic Team

One of the Pheu Thai Party's prime ministerial candidates

2023 April 3, 2023.Resigned from all positions, directorships and sub-committees of Sansiri Public Company Limited Including Chairman of the Investment Committee and Member of the Corporate Governance and Sustainability Committee.

2022 Led the organization to announce its position on the environment and set goals to become the first Net Zero in real estate business.

2021 Received the model organization award Human Rights (Honorable Prize from the Department of Labor Protection and Social Welfare, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security).

2020 Led the company to sign the United Nations Global Standards of Conduct for Business Agreement with UNDP, the first Thai company in Thailand to carry out this matter in order to support and reduce discrimination in equality for LGBT.

2019 Led the organization to win the award of Outstanding Innovation Organization Type of large size business from National Innovation Agency.

2014 Sansiri became the only private sector representative of Thailand to join UNICEF Innovation & Action Workshop Panel in New York, USA to discuss the rights and welfare of children around the world.

2010 He Initiated a partnership with UNICEF to support and extend the rights and welfare of children and youth. It was one of the first business organizations in Thailand to have received such honor to cooperate with such a cooperation which had been running for a period of 10 years until the end of the year 2020.

2007 With the view that promoting and supporting children and youth was important, he began to initiate Sansiri Academy project, a football clinic for youth free of charge and to date, more than 8000 children have been trained and many of them have had the opportunity to attend and join the youth national team.

2007 He developed Baan Sansiri Sukhumvit project, single-detached house in the city center and was extremely well received and awarded with the Asia's Best Residential Project of The Year 2006.

1995 Under his management, Sansiri was registered and transformed into a public limited company and increased the registered capital by another 100 million baht. 1994 He introduced a change in the shareholder structure and the company name was changed to Sansiri Co., Ltd.

1990 Started working at Sansamran Holding Company Limited.

EDUCATION:
• Ir, Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering University of Gadjah Mada (UGM), Faculty
of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering UGM (1987)
• IPU (Insinyur Profesional Utama/ Chartered Professional Engineer) Professional
Certification of Indonesian Engineers Association 2015
• AMP Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA (1993)
• MMT, Master of Management Technology, The University of Melbourne – Australia
(1996)
• MBA, Master of Business Administration, Monash University, Melbourne –
Australia (1997)

OCCUPATION:
• Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Republic of Indonesia (2019 – now)
• Minister of Industry Republic of Indonesia (2016 - 2019)
• Member of Commission XI of the House of Representatives (2014 - 2016)
Finance, Banking, Non-Bank Financial Institutions, National Development Planning
• Chairman of Commission VI of the House of Representatives (2009 - 2014)
Industry, Trade, Investment, Cooperation / SME, Business Competition, Batam
Authority, Aceh Authority
• Chairman of Commission VII of the House of Representatives (2006– 2009)
Energy, Mining, Environment, Research and Technology

EXPERIENCE OF INDUSTRIAL AND FINANCIAL WORK:
• Founder / President Commissioner, PT Fajar Surya Wisesa Tbk
• Packaging paper industry with capacity of 1.5 million tons / per year in Cibitung /
West Java (Since 1990 - 2016)
• Founder / President Commissioner, PT Ciptadana Capital
• Companies engaged in the Capital Market; Securities, Investment Bank, Multi
Finance and Asset Management, Pioneer of Real Estate Investment Trust Fund
(Since 1999 - 2016)

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS / COMMUNITY:
• Chairman of Golkar Party (2017 - now)
• President of Indonesia Wushu Federation (2017 - now)
• Coordinator of Economic Affairs, Golkar Party (2016 - 2017)
• Chair of Golkar Party of:
• Cooperative SMEs (2011 - 2014)
• Trading Industry (2014 - 2016)
• Chairman of the Board of Engineers, The Institution of Engineers Indonesia (PII),
(2009 - 2012, 2012 – 2015)
• President of The Institution of Engineers Indonesia (PII), (2006 – 2009)
• Secretary General of Asean Federation of Engineering Organization (AFEO)
(2005)
• Chairman, Indonesian Issuers Association (AEI)
• Associations of companies that have been listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange
(2005 - 2008, 2008 - 2011, 2011 – 2014)
• Members of KAGAMA Advisory Board (2009 – 2014)
• Member of Board of Trustees (MWA) –University of Gajah Mada (2002 - 2007,
2007-2012, 2018-2021)
• Vice Chairman of the Gajah Mada Alumni Family (KAGAMA) (2005 – 2009)

AWARDS:
• Distinguished President of Sport Federation (Wushu) from Ministry of Youth Affairs
and Sports Republic of Indonesia (2020)
• Doctor Honoris Causa in the field of Development Policy from The Korea
Development Institute (KDI) School of Public Policy, South Korea (2019)
• Distinguished President of Sport Federation (Wushu) from National Sports
Committee of Indonesia/ Komite Olahraga Nasional Indonesia (2018) Appreciation
for the role in the development of Wushu athletes on ASIAN Games XVIII – 1 gold
and 3 bronze medals
• Distinguished Honorary Fellow of The ASEAN Engineering Federation
Organization (2017)
• 56th Lee Kuan Yew Exchange Fellow, Singapore (2017)
• Presidential Award - Satya Lencana Wirakarya (2014)
• Entrepreneurship Award of University of Gadjah Mada (2012)
• Australian Alumni Award for Entrepreneurship (2009)
• Appreciation for the pioneering role in the development of business climate and
leadership in civic organizations
• Founding Fellow of Asean Academy of Engineering Technology (2004)
• Finalist of Ernst & Young Entrepreneurship of The Year (2001)

AUTHOR :
• The Role of Humanistic Leadership on Good Governance in Sport Organization: A
Literature Review/ Peran Kepemimpinan Humanis dalam Peningkatan Good
Governance di Organisasi Olahraga: Sebuah Kajian
Airlangga Hartarto, Tandiyo Rahayu, Fathur Rokhman, Soegiyanto, Billy
Castyana,Gustiana Mega Anggita, Adiska Rani Ditya Candra, Heny Setyawati
Publisher : Jurnal SPORTIF : Jurnal Penelitian Pembelajaran pada edisi Volume 6,
Nomor 3, Desember tahun 2020
• “Merajut Asa: Membangun Industri, Menuju Indonesia yang Sejahtera dan
Berkelanjutan” / Building Industry, Towards a Prosperous and Sustainable
Indonesia
Publisher: Grasindo (2016)
• “Membangun Kemandirian, Mewujudkan Kedaulatan Ketahanan Energi Nasional” /
Building Self-Reliance, Realizing National Energy Security Sustainability
Publisher: RM Books (2014)
• “Strategi Clustering dalam Industrialisasi Indonesia” / Clustering Strategy in
Industrialization of Indonesia
Publisher: Andi Offset (2004)

Mr. Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali was born on 06 February 1943 AD in the district of Dinajpur.

He received B.A. Honours (1962) and M.A. (1963) in Economics from Dhaka University. He started his career as the senior lecturer of Economics, Dhaka University in1964.

Later, he joined the erstwhile Pakistan Foreign Service in 1966. He was posted as Vice-Consul of Pakistan in New York in 1968. Immediately after arriving in New York in 1968, he started to organize the Bengali Community in the United States for independence. He joined the Bangladesh Liberation Movement in April, 1971 and appointed as the Representative of the Provisional Government of Bangladesh at Mujibnagar in the United States in May, 1971. He played an important role in achieving global support in favor of liberation war in United Nations, United States and Canada.

After the independence of Bangladesh, he made an important contribution as a representative of the Government of Bangladesh in the relief and rehabilitation program of the United Nations. In 1974, he played an active role in gaining the membership of Bangladesh in the United Nations. In March 1975, he was appointed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka. Later, he was appointed as First Secretary, Counsellor and Deputy High Commissioner respectively in the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi, the capital of India (1977-79).

He was appointed as the Deputy Chief of Mission in the Embassy of Bangladesh in Beijing, China (1983-86). He outlined new possibilities for Bangladesh-China relations. His efforts made China's participation in the implementation of the Barapukuria coal mine

He launched new transit routes as ambassador to Bhutan and initiated Bangladesh-Bhutan trade. This led to the opening of the Burimari-Chengrabanda land port which gave new life to the economy of North Bengal.

Mr. Mahmood Ali, as Additional Foreign Secretary, signed an agreement with the Government of India to launch the Tin Bigha Corridor under the Mujib-Indira Pact (1992). During this time, he formulated and implemented the Agreement of Understanding regarding the repatriation of Rohingya refugees with Myanmar (1992).

As Bangladesh's ambassador to Germany, he revitalized the country’s economic relations with Germany (1992-95). As ambassador to Nepal, he established a successful understanding of the Bangladesh-Nepal transit route through India (February-October 1996). He was appointed High Commissioner to UK in November 1996 and opened new horizons in Bangladesh-UK relations.

After retirement form service in 2001, he was elected Member of Parliament in the Bangladesh Parliament as Awami League candidate in December, 2008. He was appointed as the Minister for Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief in September, 2012, and then in November, 2013, he was appointed as the Minister for Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Mr. Ali was re-appointed as Foreign Minister in February 2014. 

Recently he is elected as fourth time Member of Parliament in 2023 and appointed as Finance Minister for Ministry of Finance of Government of the Peoples’ Republic of Bangladesh.        

H.E. Mr Askar Zhambakin is the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Before that, he was an Adviser to the Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan. Before his appointment in governmental structures, His Excellency worked at Zerde National ICT Holding, where he headed the I.T. architecture block.

Mr Askar Zhambakin has extensive experience in business process reengineering and in IT-driven business transformation at JSC Kazkommertsbank, National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan, JSC Development Bank of Kazakhstan and JSC HSBC Kazakhstan Bank.

Mr Askar Zhambakin graduated from the Almaty Institute of Power and Communication and received an MSc from the University of Manchester. In addition, Mr Askar Zhambakin obtained a diploma from Oxford University, Said Business School – Leadership Programme.

‍Former Prime Minister of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Tony Blair founded TBI on the belief that a country’s success and ability to enact transformational change is dependent on the effectiveness of its leadership and governance.

Under Tony’s direction, TBI works with political leaders around the world to create real change for their people by advising on strategy, policy and delivery – with technology as an enabler of all three.

During his tenure as prime minister, Tony implemented a major domestic-policy agenda. Through record investment and reforms, the performance of the UK’s education and health-care sectors was radically improved; crime was reduced by a third; a major programme of social liberalism and constitutional change was introduced; the Department for International Development was created and the UK’s foreign aid to Africa trebled; and landmark legislation to tackle climate change was introduced. All of this was done in the context of record economic growth and employment levels. Tony also helped bring peace to Northern Ireland by securing the historic Good Friday Agreement in 1998, and he was a passionate advocate of interventionist foreign policy. He is the only Labour leader in the party’s 100-year history to win three consecutive elections.

After leaving office, he continued his deep commitment to Africa and remained engaged with the Middle East, where he has long advocated for and worked towards the normalisation of relations between Israel and Arab states, contributing to the signing of the historic Abraham Accords in 2020.

Tony dedicates the majority of his time pro bono to TBI, a not-for-profit organisation.

Mr Henry Puna is the 10th Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum. 

He is the first Cook Islander to hold this post. 

The Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General is responsible, in close consultation with the Forum Chair and within the limits set by the Forum Leaders from time to time, for setting Forum Leaders’ Meeting agendas and coordinating responses by members to regional events, particularly crises. The Secretary General also performs several other key functions which include being the Pacific Ocean Commissioner. As the Pacific Ocean Commissioner, the Secretary General advocates for the secure future of Pacific people based on the sustainable development, management and conservation of the Pacific Ocean and its resources. 

Prior to taking up the regional role on May 24th, 2021, Secretary General Puna was Prime Minister of the Cook Islands, from November 2010 until October 2020. 

Born in Aitutaki in 1949 and raised in Rarotonga, he spent his formative years witnessing the transition to self-governance for his nation. He was one of the first wave of Cook Islands solicitors, starting at Auckland University then the University of Tasmania, obtaining a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1979. He is an alumnus of Australia National University in Canberra and was admitted to the bar in September 1980. 

Secretary General Puna’s formative years combined with his return to atoll life as a pearl farmer and parliamentarian, supplied rich insights and lived knowledge of the resilience and resourcefulness of small island communities bearing the brunt of climate change across the Blue Pacific. 

Holding portfolios including Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Marine Resources, Energy and Renewable Energy, Climate Change, Tourism, and the Outer Islands, Puna steered his nation on a path which has earned the Cook Islands global recognition for Oceans sustainability and renewable energy. 

As the Cook Islands Foreign Affairs Minister and Leader, he pursued a more vigorous level of international diplomacy for the Cook Islands, extending foreign relations and formal ties to more than 50 nations including the People’s Republic of China, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Brunei, and Singapore. 

Before politics, between 1989 and 1996, Mr Puna served on the board of the South Pacific Ports Association, and the Pacific Forum Line. His executive roles in national government heading Trade, Labour and Transport as well as operating within the constraints facing regional shipping and transportation strengthened his affinity for the hardships and vulnerabilities of connecting remote atoll-based communities across ocean states. 

A key focus in his early years as Prime Minister was transforming access to energy across all inhabited islands of the Cooks. His championing of renewable, clean energy and support ensured the bilateral and global funding partnerships for a successful transition to solar energy, breaking the monopoly of fossil fuel. 

At the international level, as the 43rd Forum Chair and host of the 2012 meetings and Leaders Retreat, he invited former US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton to a milestone meeting with Forum Leaders, who renewed their commitment to address human rights for women, through a new Pacific Leaders Gender Equality Declaration. 
In 2016, in recognition of his service to the region and academia, he received an honorary Doctorate in Law from the University of the South Pacific, Fiji, and served as Chancellor of the University from 2017-2018. 

As a Forum Leader championing climate change, tuna fisheries, and innovative partnerships for oceans and energy sustainability, a landmark global achievement  has been the  2017 founding legislation establishing the world’s largest multiple-use marine park, the Marae Moana. 

Henry Puna is 71 in 2021, and an avid golfer and fisher. He is married to Cook Islands Member of Parliament for Manihiki, Akaiti Puna. 

Written Bio according to last years’ example 

His Excellency Mr. Henry Puna serves as the 10th Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS), marking a historic moment as the first Cook Islander to assume this esteemed position.  

In his role, Mr. Puna leads the PIFS, acting in close collaboration with the Forum Chair and under the guidance of the Forum Leaders, to set agendas for Forum Leaders’ Meetings and coordinate regional responses to events and crises. His responsibilities also encompass the significant role of Pacific Ocean Commissioner, where he champions the sustainable development, management, and conservation of the Pacific Ocean and its resources. 

Before his tenure at the PIFS, which began on May 24, 2021, Mr. Puna dedicated a decade of his career to serving as the Prime Minister of the Cook Islands, from November 2010 until October 2020.  

Born in 1949 in Aitutaki and raised in Rarotonga, he has witnessed his nation's journey to self-governance firsthand. Mr. Puna is a pioneer among Cook Islands solicitors, having pursued his education at Auckland University and the University of Tasmania, where he obtained a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1979, followed by further studies at Australia National University in Canberra. 

Throughout his career, Mr. Puna has been a fervent advocate for the Pacific region's resilience and resourcefulness, particularly in the face of climate change. His leadership in various ministerial roles, covering Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Marine Resources, Energy and Renewable Energy, Climate Change, Tourism, and the Outer Islands, has significantly advanced the Cook Islands' global standing in oceans sustainability and renewable energy. 

An exemplar of international diplomacy, Mr. Puna has expanded the Cook Islands' foreign relations, establishing formal ties with over 50 nations, including major Asian countries. His earlier contributions to regional shipping and transportation, as well as his efforts to transition the Cook Islands towards renewable energy, underscore his commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. 

His Excellency Indra Mani Pandey is a career diplomat of India. He joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1990. 

Before his current assignment, he served as Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations and Other International organizations in Geneva. He had earlier served as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs in charge of the Disarmament & International Security Affairs Division. During his 33-year-long career as an Indian diplomat, Ambassador Pandey has served as Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman. Before his Ambassadorial assignment in Muscat, he served as Deputy Ambassador of India to France and Consul General of India at Guangzhou, China. 

Ambassador Pandey had also served in various diplomatic capacities at Indian Missions in Cairo (Egypt), Damascus (Syria), Islamabad (Pakistan), Kabul (Afghanistan) and the Permanent Mission of India to the Conference on Disarmament, Geneva (Switzerland).  

During his earlier stints at the Ministry of External Affairs of India in  New Delhi, Ambassador Pandey handled assignments in the West Asia and North Africa Division; Consular, Passport and Visa Division; Counter Terrorism Cell; Americas Division; and Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Myanmar (BSM) Division. 

During October 1998- June 99, Ambassador Pandey attended the Foreign Service Programme at Oxford University, the U.K.  In 2009, he attended the 49th Annual Course on National Security and Strategy, conducted by the National Defence College of India. 

Ambassador Pandey is married to Mrs. Sushma Pandey and they have a daughter, Devangi. 

Education 

Feb 1985 B.A in Political Science and International Studies, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea 

Professional Career 

Apr 1987 Passed High Diplomatic Service Examination 

Jun 1987 Joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) 

Dec 1995 First Secretary, Korean Embassy in Japan  

Dec 1998 Counsellor, Korean Embassy in the People’s Republic of Bangladesh 

Feb 2004 Visiting Fellow, Royal Institute of international Affairs, UK 

Feb 2005 Assistant Secretary, National Security Council (NSC) 

Jan 2006 Assistant Secretary, Office of the President  

Aug 2006 Director, Northeast Asia Division I, Asian and Pacific Affairs Bureau,  Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MOFAT)  

Jul 2007 Minister-Counsellor, Korean Embassy in the Commonwealth of Australia 

Jan 2011 Minister, Korean Embassy in the Republic of Indonesia 

Mar 2012 Deputy Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Office of the President  

Mar 2013 Deputy Secretary for Policy Coordination, Office of National Security  

Oct 2014 Minister, Korean Embassy in Japan  

May 2019 Director-General for Global Education and cooperation, National Human Resources Development Institute (NHI), Ministry of Personnel Management (MPM) 

Oct 2020 Consul-General, Korean Consulate-General in Fukuoka, Japan 

Sep 2023 ~ Secretary-General, Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat 

Ambassador Kairat Sarybay was appointed as the first CICA Secretary General by the Sixth Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) on 13 October 2022. Prior to this, he served as the Executive Director of the CICA Secretariat since October 2020. 

The CICA Secretariat during Ambassador K. Sarybay's tenure has focused on the strategic initiative of the Kazakh Chairmanship to transform CICA into a full-fledged international organization. These efforts contributed to the launch of the CICA transformation process by the Sixth CICA Summit and to the endorsement of the Road Map for CICA Transformation in September 2023 by the CICA Ministerial Council. 

Moreover, the Secretariat effectively supported the Member States in the implementation of confidence building measures (CBMs), updating the CICA Catalogue of CBMs in 2021, including the introduction of new areas for interaction, and developing relevant concept papers on the implementation of CBMs. The Secretariat team also assisted the Member States in further institutionalizing the organization through establishing new bodies – the Council of Eminent Persons, the Think Tank Forum and the CICA Fund. 

During the period since 2020, the CICA family has also experienced notable growth, with Kuwait becoming a Member in 2022, Turkmenistan and Saudi Arabia – Observers in 2021 and 2023 respectively, and the Eurasian Economic Union – a partner organization in 2022. CICA has also greatly expanded cooperation with the United Nations. 

Track record 

Embarking on a diplomatic career in August 1991 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Ambassador Sarybay held various roles in central office and diplomatic missions abroad. His career path includes responsible positions in the foreign policy system of the Republic of Kazakhstan, such as the Assistant to the President, Head of the Protocol Service of the President, Press Secretary and Head of the Press Service for the President, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, and he was appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kazakhstan to multiple countries. 

As Head of Protocol Service of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan in 1996-1997, K. Sarybay developed a new edition of the Presidential Decree “On State Protocol”. Later he served as the Press Secretary and Head of the Press Service of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan (1997-1998). 

K. Sarybay was appointed as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan in 1998-1999. 

From 1999 to 2003, K. Sarybay served as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Türkiye, becoming the youngest ambassador in the history of Kazakhstan. 

Serving as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Federal Republic of Germany in 2003-2007, K. Sarybay initiated the process, which resulted in the adoption of the EU Strategy on Central Asia (2007). 

As Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan in 2007-2008, Ambassador K. Sarybay held the simultaneous roles of National Coordinator for Interaction with the European Union and head of the government task force to develop “The Path to Europe” State Programme. This programme was approved by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan and played the role of a strategic document for developing priorities of the KazakhChairmanship in the OSCE (2010). 

Ambassador Sarybay served as Assistant to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Foreign Policy Issues in 2008-2010. 

He was appointed Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan for the third time in September 2010 and held this post until February 2014. The main milestones of K.Sarybay’s activities at this post are as follows: 

- leading the task force in the development and implementation of the concept paper of the Chairmanship of Kazakhstan in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in 2011-2012. It was during the 38th meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers in Astana, Kazakhstan, in June 2011, that the decision to rename the Organization of the Islamic Conference to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation was reached; 

- active participation in the establishment of the Islamic Organization for Food Security headquartered in Astana, Kazakhstan; 

- preparation and convening of the Commemorative Session and Fourth Ministerial Meeting of CICA in Astana, Kazakhstan, in September 2012; 

- leading the task force in the preparation of the third meeting of the Ministerial Conference of the Istanbul Process on Afghanistan (Heart of Asia), which was convened in Almaty, Kazakhstan, in April 2013; 

- leading the delegation of Kazakhstan’s negotiation process regarding the legal status of the Caspian Sea in 2011-2013, resulting in a breakthrough between the summits of the Caspian Five in Baku (2010) and Astrakhan (2014); 

- development of the “African dimension” of Kazakhstan's foreign policy in 2011-2013, resulting in the opening of the Embassies of Kazakhstan in Pretoria and Addis Ababa. 

From February 2014 to September 2020, K. Sarybay served as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Austria and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the International Organizations in Vienna. He was also appointed as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Slovenia concurrently. 

In the position as the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Austria, K. Sarybay contributed to the development of effective inter-parliamentary dialogue, strengthening bilateral political and economic cooperation and establishing network diplomacy. He successfully established an extensive network of Honorary Consuls of the Republic of Kazakhstan all over the federal states of Austria, except the capital city of Vienna. 

As the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Slovenia, K. Sarybay was one of the most active non-resident Ambassadors. During his tenure, Friendship Groups were established in both Parliaments of Kazakhstan and Slovenia, two Honorary Consulates of Kazakhstan were opened (in Maribor and Nova Gorica), and cooperation with the Kazakh-Slovenian Business Club enhanced opportunities in building trade and economic relations. 

K. Sarybay acting as a Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the International Organizations in Vienna was elected as a Co-Coordinator of CTBT Article XIV in 2015-2017 (together with Japan), served as a Chair of the Hague Code of Conduct against Ballistic Missile Proliferation in 2016-2017, Chairperson of the OSCE Economic and Environmental Committee in 2017-2019, Chair of the Nuclear Suppliers Group in 2019-2020. During his tenure, the project on the establishment of the IAEA Low-Enriched Uranium Bank in Kazakhstan was successfully completed. 

In addition to his diplomatic achievements, K. Sarybay is a proponent of women's empowerment and has initiated numerous innovative arts and sports projects. Around fifty musical concerts and cultural events were held in all regions of Austria and Slovenia within the framework of “The Pearls of Kazakhstan - Melodies of the Great Steppe” in 2015-2020, a continuation of the same endeavour in Germany from 2003-2007. As part of the Art Circle project, “The Art Embassy of Kazakhstan” was inaugurated in the Goriška Brda region, Slovenia. Furthering cultural exchange, the first Vienna Ball was successfully organized in Astana in 2018. The Permanent Mission of Kazakhstan in Vienna has organized the OSCE Connectivity Bicycle Tour three years in a row (in 2018-2020). 

Under the leadership of K. Sarybay, the CICA Secretariat organized football tournaments, bicycle and ski tours, which have already become a good tradition, and a hike up Kanysh Satpayev Peak near Almaty in 2023, where the organization’s flag was planted at an altitude of 4317 meters above sea level. 

For his outstanding services, Ambassador Sarybay has been awarded multiple Orders of the Republic of Kazakhstan – “Parasat” (“Nobility”), 2nd-degree “Dostyq” (“Friendship”) and “Qurmet” (“Honour”) and several state medals, as well as the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Karel Kramář Commemorative Medal of the Czech Republic, and numerous awards of international organizations. 

Ambassador Sarybay has a scientific and research background in oriental studies and linguistics. He is the author of several books, a number of scientific and popular science articles on ancient Turkic languages and articles on relevant international policy issues, lecturing as the visiting professor of the Diplomatic Institute of the Academy of Public Administration of Kazakhstan. 

Kairat Sarybay is a graduate of the Faculty of Oriental Studies at Leningrad State University (1988), fluent in Kazakh, Russian, Turkish, English and German. Born on 8 June 1966 in Almaty, Kazakhstan, married to D.A. Leyla Mahat, has four children and two grandchildren. 

Ambassador Sarybay's commitment to multilateral diplomacy, cultural exchange and gender equality reflects his dedication to advancing peace, security and prosperity in Asia and globally. 

Born on September 27, 1973 in the Republic of Tajikistan. Tajik. 

Education: 

Technological University of Tajikistan (1995) 

Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia (2001) 

Career: 

1998-1999 — Attache of the Asia and Africa Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan. 

2001-2004 — Third Secretary of the Asia and Africa Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan. 

2004-2007 — Expert of the first category of the SCO Secretariat. 

2007-2010 — Second Secretary of the Asia and Africa Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan. 

2010-2013 — Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in the Kyrgyz Republic. 

2013-2017 — First Secretary, Advisor to the Legal Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan. 

2017-2020 — Advisor to the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in China, Permanent Representative of Tajikistan to the SCO Secretariat. 

2020 — 2022 — Head of the SCO Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan. 

Since February 25, 2022 — Deputy Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. 

State awards: Diploma of the Republic of Tajikistan. 

The diplomatic rank is Second Class Advisor. 

Married, four children. 

Mr. Kashif Zaman (Pakistani National) assumed the charge as Deputy Secretary General for Transport & Communication and Human Resource & Sustainable Development (T&C and HR&SD) at the ECO Secretariat in July 2023.

He joined the Information Service of Pakistan in 1999 and has served on several important positions, including Press & Cultural Attaché at Pakistan Mission in Kuwait (2010-14), Director Media/Spokesperson, National Highway Authority (2016-19), Director Administration to Deputy Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan (2019-20) and Director General, Directorate of Electronic Media and Publication (2020-22).

Prior to his joining at ECO Secretariat, Mr. Kashif Zaman was serving at National Accountability Bureau (NAB) as Director/Spokesperson

Chief Operating Officer, Trade Solutions Complex

As Chief Operating Officer of ITFC’s Trade Solutions Complex, Nazeem leads the Corporation’s Trade Finance and Trade & Business Development functions. 

Prior to the establishment of ITFC in January 2008, he was Acting Group Supervisor of Operations in the Trade Finance & Promotion Department (TFPD) at the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), which he joined in 1997 and he was instrumental in rebuilding a trade finance portfolio in Sub Saharan Africa. Nazeem is a pioneer of many innovative Islamic finance solutions, including the Shariah compliant structured commodity finance he designed for ITFC. He has been leading teams of multi-skilled professionals to produce landmark deals in Islamic trade finance.  

He obtained a Master of Science degree in Shipping, Trade & Finance in 1989 at the City Business School, University of London, UK, following his bachelor’s degree (Hons) in Economics from the London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE).

Doreen Bogdan-Martin took office as Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on 1 January 2023. 

Ms Bogdan-Martin has held leadership positions in the field of international telecommunications policy for over three decades, with a track-record of brokering innovative partnerships to expand digital inclusion and connectivity for everyone around the world. Following her historic election by ITU Member States in September 2022, she became the first woman ever to head the organization, which was first established in 1865 and became a UN specialized agency in 1947. 

As ITU Secretary-General, she aims to drive innovative solutions, maximize ITU's relevance for its 193 Member States, intensify global cooperation on connecting the unconnected, and strengthen the alignment of ITU's programmes with the Sustainable Development Goals set out by the United Nations. Ms Bogdan-Martin has consistently emphasized the need for digital transformation to achieve economic prosperity, job creation, skills development, gender equality, and socio-economic inclusion, as well as to build circular economies, reduce climate impact, and save lives. 

As Director of ITU's Telecommunication Development Bureau for a four-year term starting in 2018, she helped put sustainable digital development at the forefront of international cooperation, including with the private sector and civil society. She actively promoted the Partner2Connect initiative, which has mobilized unprecedented pledges of funding and support for meaningful Internet connectivity in developing countries. 

Earlier, she was instrumental in establishing the ITU-UNESCO Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development, serving as its Executive Director for more than a decade, contributed to the success of ITU's Global Symposium for Regulators as the pre-eminent worldwide meeting for digital policy makers, and led in the formulation of  ITU's youth engagement strategy. She also pioneered ITU's ongoing contribution to the EQUALS Global Partnership for Gender Equality in the Digital Age and initiated collaboration with UNICEF on the Giga project to connect every school worldwide to the Internet. ​

Within ITU, she has promoted gender equality and encouraged bringing more women into the workforce, as well as helping women grow professionally and contributing to networks of women pursuing gender-balanced participation in conferences and policy making. 

From 2008 until 2018, Ms Bogdan-Martin served as Chief of ITU's Strategic Planning and Membership Department, overseeing corporate communications, external affairs, corporate strategy, and membership. Earlier, she headed the Regulatory and Market Environment Division and Regulatory Reform Unit in the ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau​. 

Before joining ITU in 1994, she worked at the U.S. Department of Commerce as a Telecommunication Policy Specialist in the National Telecommunication and Information Administration. 

Ms Bogdan-Martin holds a Master's in International Communications Policy from American University in Washington, DC, a post-graduate certification in Strategies for Leadership from the Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland, and a certification in Accountability and Ethics from the UN Leaders Programme. She is also a qualified amateur radio operator. 

Ms Bogdan-Martin is married with four children. 

Ms. Fatima brings to the position more than 30 years of experience in national and international civil service, encompassing bilateral and multilateral diplomacy, policymaking, advocacy, programme planning and implementation. 

She is the current Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations in New York.  Prior to this position, she was the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Japan (2016-2019), Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangladesh (2015-2016), Regional Representative for South Asia (2007-2011) and Regional Adviser for South and South-West Asia and Regional Adviser for Climate Change and Migration (2012-2015) of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Geneva, and Head of Human Rights at the Commonwealth Secretariat, London (2006-2007). 

Ms. Fatima joined her country’s diplomatic service in 1989 and served in various capacities in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and in Bangladesh missions in New York, Kolkata, Geneva and Beijing. 

She holds a master’s degree in international relations and diplomacy from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, United States, and a bachelor’s degree in social science from the University of Canberra, Australia. 

Fatima Yasmin is the Vice-President for Sectors and Themes of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). She assumed the position on 1 September 2023.  

Ms. Yasmin is responsible for management of the Sectors Group and the Climate Change and Sustainable Development Department under ADB’s new operating model.   

Ms. Yasmin was the Senior Secretary at the Finance Division of Bangladesh’s Ministry of Finance. She has more than 32 years of broad development experience, including in macroeconomic management, public sector and fiscal policy reform, and trade and poverty reduction in government and international organizations.   

ADB’s sector and thematic expertise are consolidated in the two groups under Ms. Yasmin to deliver integrated solutions to clients in accordance with country programs and strengthen ADB’s position as a leader in development knowledge in the region. The sector and thematic groups will launch and lead innovative initiatives to tackle the region’s key development challenges, with a focus on climate change.   

Ms. Yasmin holds a master in development economics from Australian National University and a Master of Business Administration from the Institute of Business Administration, Dhaka University, in Bangladesh. She also received a Fellowship in Public Policy and Human Rights under the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program at Rutgers University in New Jersey, United States. 

Ms. Ko Barret was appointed as WMO Deputy Secretary-General in January 2024 and will begin her mandate on 1 April 2024. She is currently the Senior Advisor for Climate at the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In this role, she provides strategic advice and direction within NOAA to enable the Agency to align, integrate, and extend its capabilities to best provide the climate services needed to address the climate challenge. She represented NOAA’s interests in government-wide efforts to transform the economy and achieve US climate goals to reduce emissions and stabilize global temperature by mid-century.

In 2015, Ko Barrett was one of the first women elected to serve as Vice-Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a role she held until July 2023. As Vice-chair, Ms. Barrett utilized her talent for facilitating consensus to advance the organization’s work. She championed the Special Report on Oceans and Cryosphere, chaired the Gender Action Team, and led the Science Board for the Scholarship Program for scientists from developing countries. Her quotes on climate change and its impacts were featured in thousands of articles worldwide. 

For over 15 years, she represented the United States in delegations responsible for negotiating and adopting climate science and policy outcomes. In addition to her work with the IPCC, she served as a lead negotiator on adaptation and capacity building issues for the United States in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Ko Barrett is widely recognized as an expert on climate science and policy, particularly on issues related to climate impacts and strategies to help society adapt to a changing world.

Ms. Barrett joined the Senior Executive Service in 2016. She served as the Deputy Assistant Administrator for NOAA’s Research Programs for five years, following various leadership positions in its Climate Program Office for over a decade. Before joining NOAA in 2005, Ms. Barrett was the Director of the Global Climate Change Program at the US Agency for International Development, where she oversaw climate activities in more than 40 countries. 

Ms. Barrett has won multiple awards for her contributions to NOAA, the nation and our planet. These include the NOAA Administrator’s Awards in 2010 and 2015, the U.S. Department of Commerce Gold Award for Leadership in 2021, and the U.S. Department of State Meritorious Honor Award in 2011. She also shared a Nobel Peace Prize with members of the IPCC in 2007. In 2017, Ms. Barrett was the commencement speaker and received an honorary Doctor of Science degree from the University of North Carolina - Asheville. In 2021, she received a Distinguished Presidential Rank Award, one of the most prestigious awards in the federal career civil service. Most recently, in 2022, the Global Landscape Forum included Ms. Barrett on its list of 16 Women Restoring the Earth.

Ms. Barrett holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Studies from the University of North Carolina – Asheville. There, she was named a University Scholar, Distinguished Research Scholar, and was elected a member of the Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Society.  

Danny Quah is Li Ka Shing Professor in Economics and Dean at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, NUS. His research on inequality and income mobility characterises the range of experiences across economies to suggest that a single narrative on inequality is unlikely to be correct or helpful. His work on world order takes an economic approach to international systems, studying the supply and demand of world order: what international system do the world’s Great Powers wish to provide; what world order does the global community need?    

Quah is a Commissioner on the Spence-Stiglitz Commission on Global Economic Transformation and on LSE's Global Economic Governance Commission. He serves on the Executive Committee, International Economic Association; the Advisory Board, LSE IDEAS; the Eminent Advisory Council of the UNDP Bureau for Asia-Pacific; and the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council for Geopolitics.  He is Vice President at the Economic Society of Singapore.  

He is the author of “The Global Economy’s Shifting Centre of Gravity”.  

Dr. Chantarat currently serves as Executive Director of Puey Ungphakorn Institute for Economic Research. Her research utilizes administrative data, econometrics and original field survey and experiments to understand household finance, rural financial markets, development policies and how they interplay with welfare dynamics. Her current works involve designing and evaluating financial products and sustainable household debt solutions for farmers. Her works appear in American Journal of Agricultural Economics, Journal of Risk and Insurance, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA, Journal of Economic Inequality and World Development. 

Prior to joining PIER, Dr. Chantarat was a senior economist consultant at the World Bank and a lecturer at the Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University. She holds Ph.D. in Economics from Cornell University and was awarded the Puey Ungphakorn Golden Medal Award for Best Young Economist in 2021. 

Xirui (Sherry) Lian, Founder and CEO of Lvdoya, in collaboration with the UNFCCC 

The initiator of ‘the Intelligent Climate & Eco-Civilization Initiative' and The Institute of Ecological Civilization and International Climate Action (Shenzhen) 

Research Fellow of China Environmental Protection Industry Research Institute 

Vice-director of Carbon Neutrality Foundation, China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation 

Xirui (Sherry) Lian is an entrepreneur in the climate technology sector. In 2015, she founded the information technology platform Lvdoya (绿豆芽) and has been closely collaborating with the UNFCCC since 2019, providing "dual carbon" digital innovative technology solutions for local governments, institutions, and enterprises in China. 

She leads an international team that combines the professional and cutting-edge ideas and standards in the field of climate action with the stages and national characteristics of China's response to climate change. The team has innovatively developed a recycling network centered around a SaaS carbon account system, supported by a carbon neutrality meter, with Carbon Cabins as the scene, obtaining nearly a hundred patents, copyrights, and trademarks. Carbon Cabins have become a benchmark project for community-level carbon inclusivity and circular economy in China, driving millions of the public to actively participate in green and low-carbon actions.  

She has attended five COPs, delivering keynote speeches to introduce the experience and achievements of China's carbon inclusivity projects in engaging the public in climate action to the world with innovative digital and AI solutions. The Secretariat of the UNFCCC has globally promoted these efforts. Many media in China, including China Central Television (CCTV), the People's Daily, and Xinhua News Agency, have reported her solutions widely and positively.  

In 2023, at the COP28 in Dubai, UAE, Lvdoya launched the Intelligent Climate & Eco-Civilization Initiative together with the UNFCCC, using digital solutions to promote international climate information sharing and strengthen communication and cooperation on climate action. This initiative was recognized by H.E. Mr. Xie Zhenhua, the former special envoy for China's climate change affairs, as "an important achievement under the COP28 transparency theme". Sherry became the first Chinese entrepreneur in the carbon inclusivity field to be officially interviewed on the UNFCCC's official YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7zFNjTkmK0 

Moon-sil Choi's professional experience of more than 28 years in Digital Inclusion, ICT strategy, Service, and Policy has contributed significantly to the progress of ICT in Korea. In particular, she played a crucial role in establishing the "Digital Bill of Rights," a core policy of the Republic of Korea in 2023. The Digital Bill of Rights is a charter that contains the primary direction for establishing a new digital norm in the age of digital intensification. She took on the overall role of supporting the Digital Bill of Rights. Additionally, she has contributed to the overall digital transformation in Korea through planning public government services, overseas expansion of Korea's digital government, opening public data to the private sector, and transitioning administrative information systems to the cloud.

Ms. Jin Zhang is Vice President and Senior Research Fellow of the Centre for International Knowledge on Development (CIKD), part of the Development Research Center of the State Council of China. She received her PhD degree from the University of Cambridge where she taught and researched for many years. Her research areas include global and Chinese development; globalization, value chains and China; the political economy of state-owned enterprises. She is executive editor of the Routledge series China in the World.

Zorikto is a digital policy researcher with experience in international affairs, socio-economic research and statistics. He serves as a bridge between technical communities and policy-makers.

For the last seven years, Zorikto has been at the heart of international digital cooperation endeavors in the Asia-Pacific and beyond. He served on a number of elected positions and as a delegate in UNESCAP, WTO, ITU, APEC, ASEAN, UNCITRAL and others.

His work resulted in several national legislation texts, leaders’ and ministerial declarations, model laws, and binding international agreements.  

Prashant is Accessibility Specialist with the DAISY CONSORTIUM (www.daisy.org)   for technical support & software testing. Responsible for conducting trainings in Digital Talking Books production & providing support to libraries and publishers taking up inclusive publishing worldwide.  Mr. Verma has conducted face to face trainings on information accessibility from 2003 till date in more than 25 countries like USA, Switzerland, France, Portugal, Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Botswana, Mauritius, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, Indonesia and Kazakhstan apart from conducting online training and technical support for many other countries from all continents. Mr. Verma has prepared numerous manuals, step-by-step tutorials and videos on tools useful for accessible books production and reading.   

Prashant is General Secretary at National Association for the Blind Delhi, a premier NGO working for the empowerment of persons with blindness, low vision and multiple disabilities. 

Prashant is a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC), and a member of International Association of Accessibility Professionals.  

Prashant is Chairman of Committee for Sugamya Pustakalaya, the first national level online accessible books distribution portal developed by DAISY Forum of India.  

Prashant is credited with several innovations including the Currency Identification Device for India and Mauritius and Bank Cheque Printing Templates for the blind. He had launched www.GoodFoodTalks.in, India's first accessible restaurant finder and menu reading app in 2016. He has written several books and manuals on computer training and use of technology for the visually impaired. 

Prashant is an experienced Accessibility and Usability evangelist and has provided accessibility testing services to numerous companies and organizations like UNDP, Microsoft, UNESCO, UNICEF, Dolphin Computers, RNIB UK and more.    

Qualifications:  

CPACC, O Level, MSW, PG Dip. NGO Mgt., DAISY Int. Trainer, Dip. In Assistive Technology, CCC, MSW 

Ms. Pitiporn (Bee) Phanaphat is currently leading SCB digital products and platforms as Head of Digital Businesses, Digital Banking, at Siam Commercial Bank, Thailand. She joined SCB Group firstly in 2016 as First Executive Vice President, leading bank strategic partnership and business development, leading many key strategic investments, divestments, and joint venture setups for SCB.  

Ms. Phanaphat advocates for initiatives that aim to bridge the digital divide and foster equal access to financial services. Her role is also leveraging technology to enhance financial inclusivity and improve the socio-economic well-being of modern consumers at all ages. Her endeavors reflect a dedication to creating a more inclusive digital environment that empowers individuals through innovative financial solutions. 

During 2018 – 2019 she oversaw the Credit Card Division and served as a member of the Board of Directors of SCB-Julius Baer (both Thai and Singapore entities) and Digital Ventures, subsidiaries of SCB. In 2020 - 2021 she joined SCB 10X as Chief Business Development & Financial Officer, as well as one of the founding Team, to drive strategic investment for SCB10X while serving as Board Directors in many of its investment portfolio companies including Monix and Synqa (Omise). Prior to joining SCB, Ms. Phanaphat served as CEO of Tesco Financial Services, a joint venture between Tesco Lotus and Bank of Ayudhya. In addition, she has over 15 years of experience working in leading multinational corporations, including Boston Consulting Group and JP Morgan New York. 

Ms. Phanaphat holds an MBA from Harvard University and B.S. degrees in Economics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and in Management Science from the Sloan School of Management, United States. 

Parinand Varnasavang, born on February 20, 1974, is a seasoned professional with expertise in electrical engineering and policy research. He holds a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, U.S.A., along with a Royal Thai Government Scholarship.

Serving as a Policy Specialist at the Office of National Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Policy Council, Varnasavang contributes to policy formulation in diverse domains. His roles include researching social sciences, humanities, and arts and fostering international partnerships in education and innovation.

He also serves as an Adjunct Faculty Member at Kasetsart University, enriching the academic landscape since 2012.

With extensive experience at the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy Office from 2009 to 2019, Varnasavang played pivotal roles in drafting national policies focusing on internationalization, diplomacy, and Sustainable Development Goals.

Earlier in his career, he contributed to various programs at the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC) NSTDA.

Sarah Mecartney is the Regional Director for Melanesia at the Pacific Community - SPC.  

Sarah Mecartney is from Vanuatu and is a regional public servant. She joined the Pacific Community (SPC) in 2019. Prior to this she worked for the United Nations in Afghanistan and in the Pacific. 

Sarah has over 20 years in international development, public policy and planning, strategic analysis, and programme management, working in the Pacific region with a particular focus on sustainable development and built environments. She has a keen appreciation for incorporating diverse perspectives for vibrant and robust strategic planning and policy development processes.  

Sarah holds a Master of Science from the University of Sydney.  

Founder and CEO. Paul received his PhD in Computer Science from the EPFL, specializing in Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and Information Visualization. In what sometimes seems like former lives, he was: a professor at the AIT; a researcher in university labs in Europe (Paris-Sud, Aarhus); an engineer at Intel (US patents 5815434, 5936884); a helicopter pilot; and a West Point graduate. He likes exploring and understanding complexity, the beauty of maps, the cleverness of gadgets, things and people you can trust, and food and wine with friends.

Dr Aladdin D. Rillo is currently a Senior Economic Advisor for the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA).  Prior to that, he worked at the ASEAN Secretariat for many years where he served in various positions; the latest as the Deputy Secretary-General for the ASEAN Economic Community (2018-2021), during which he provided the overall leadership in the implementation of the AEC Blueprint 2025 and ASEAN’s economic integration agenda.  He also held positions at the Asian Development Bank Institute in Tokyo as Senior Economist (2013-2018) and PricewaterhouseCoopers in Toronto as Senior Manager Transfer Pricing (2006-2007).

Dr Rillo has written and published extensively on the ASEAN economy and on the broader economic and trade and financial integration issues. He holds PhD and MA degrees in economics from the University of Hawaii, and an AB in economics from the Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines.

Mr. Ali Shareef is the Deputy Director General of Maldives Meteorological Service, and the focal point for RIMES Secretariat representing RIMES in Regional and International Forums.

Shareef has over 3 decades of experience in the sector. Since 2008 he has been working as the Deputy Director General of Maldives Meteorological Service, managing meteorological, climatological and early warning operations at the National Meteorological and Multi-hazard Early Warning Centre. Previously, he held the positions of Director, Meteorologist and Senior Forecaster of the Department of Meteorology of the Government of Maldives.

Recognized as 2020 Finalist Lifetime Achievement Global Award of Women in Tech, Top Businesswomen of 2019, a Female Executive of the Year 2018 Stevie Award Winner (more than 2,500 employees) and one of 60 “Thought Leaders You Should Follow” in 2018 at a Global Microsoft Inspire event, Patama Chantaruck has established herself as one of the foremost experts on digital transformation. Her mission is to help customers optimize their IT investments and be more successful in a new era of the fourth industrial revolution. Throughout her career, Patama has strongly believed that when one woman helps another, amazing things can happen. Therefore, since 2001 she has been sharing her experience with others, promoting and mentoring female entrepreneurs and leaders inside and outside company globally which earned her the prestigious “Women Helping Women” Stevie Award in 2018. Devoted to “paying forward," she continues to be a strong advocate in supporting women’s leadership causes, and Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace. She is also a member of board directors at Institute for Management Education for Thailand Foundation (IMET)

Education

Washington State University (MBA, International Finance)

Prince of Songkla University (Honorary Degree of Doctor of Computer Science)

Graduated Ph.D. Research and Development in Education from faculty of Education, Chiang Mai University with Field of Research and Development in Inspection, Supervision and Evaluation of Educational Management. Full Experience in Teaching Skills of Master Degree Programs in Project Management and Evaluation and Educational Administration. In addition, Expert Specialized in Research Methodology Design, Data Analysis in Advanced Statistics, Design Evaluation System Model and KPIs Development, including Development Inspection and Evaluation Program to provide information for Decision Making, Strategy and Policy Planning. Moreover, Knowledge in Future Research Methodology especially Scenario Technique to apply for Policy and Strategic Plan.

Currently, experienced, published Ph.D. researcher with hands-on experience in the public, private sectors and iNGO with a continued passion for developing new research and evaluation techniques and application to real world problems.

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS

2020 Certificate in Big Data, Data Mining and CRM Application, National Institute of Development Administration: NIDA

2020 Certificate in PMDPro, Project Management in Development sector Professional Programme, APMG Internationa

2007 – 2014 Chiang Mai University: Faculty of Education Ph.D. (Research and Development in Education), Field of Research and Development in Inspection, Supervision and Evaluation of Educational Management

Thesis Title Development of Curriculum Evaluation Model for Educational
Programs in Graduate School

2005 Chiang Mai University: College of Arts, Media and Technology/ Scottish Enterprise (Scotland), Certificate in Cluster Development Agency

2001 - 2003 Chiang Mai University: Faculty of Education, M.Ed. (Research and Statistics in Education)

Thesis Title Application of the scenario technique into study of e-learning in 2007 of the secondary schools in Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai

1999 Tri Petch Isuzu Sales Co., Ltd. Certificate in Vision in Progress Programme: VIP 1999

1996-2000 Chiang Mai University: Faculty of Education, B.Ed. (Science), Field of Physics Teaching

WORK EXPERIENCE

2022-Present Plan International Thailand

Programme Innovation and Impact Director

As a vital member of the Plan International Country Leadership Team, I have had the privilege of leading the Country Programme and Technical team, a dynamic group comprising 50 members. Within this capacity, my responsibilities encompass spearheading innovative program design and development, ensuring the seamless delivery of programs and projects, mobilizing essential resources, and maintaining strict adherence to donors' requirements and reporting standards. In this pivotal role, I provide direct supervision to Project Managers responsible for overseeing ongoing projects at Plan International Thailand (PIT), as well as to Areas of Global Distinctiveness (AOGD) Technical Leads, Resource Mobilization teams, and Learning and Evidence-based teams.

2016-2022 Plan International Thailand

Monitoring Evaluation Research and Learning Manager

Designing, Coaching, Training, and Management of the Monitoring Evaluation Research and Learning (MERL) Program to ensure all the staff understand and have capabilities to deliver high-quality project management, monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning. Also be the focal point to address all problems for auditing on MERL and Programme purposes to respond to all requirements from Global Hub, Plan National Office, and Donor/Funder

2015-2016 Grand Linux Solution Co., Ltd.

Strategy Director/ERP System Analysis

ERP System Analysis and Statistics to analyze data for decision-making in public, private, academic and development sectors

2014-2015 Advanced Research Group Co., Ltd.

Senior Research Manager and Field Manager (Acting)                                

2012-2014 Advanced Research Group Co., Ltd.

Research Manager and Field Manager (Acting)                   

2012-2014 Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT)

Adviser of Research and Development Strategy for Corporate Communication Department of EGAT

Oversee and manage a team to conduct Market Research, Custom Research, and Strategic Analytics. Manage and Lead Key research projects, including determining methodology and sample frame, and oversee the work of outsourcing vendors and internal resources. Collaborate with the other unit line of management and develop creative ways to use research and data to answer complex business questions and drive strategies

2009-2012 Graduate School of North-Chiang Mai University

Lecturer: Master of Education (Educational Administration)

Subjects

- Research Methodology in Education

- Educational Project Evaluation

2004-2009 Graduate School of North-Chiang Mai University

Lecturer: Master of Public Administration
(Project Management and Evaluation)

Subjects

- Data Analysis for Project Management and Evaluation

- Observation Technique for Project Management and Evaluation

- Research Methodology for Project Management and Evaluation

Oversee and manage Graduate School & Master Degree Curriculum as a secretary and board committee including teaching master's degree students in research methodology, statistics for project management and evaluation, project evaluation design, and designing tools for data collection. Also, an advisor and a student thesis examination committee provides advice on the design of research methodologies including data analysis and supervision to ensure that the thesis will meet the standards and quality