ITECD is the coordinating division for the thematic subprogramme of
regional economic cooperation. In that role, it provides the substantive backup
as well as the logistic support for organization of the legislative meetings of the
Committee for Regional Economic Cooperation and of the Steering Groups of the
Committee for Regional Economic Cooperation.
The Steering Group of the Committee performs the role of a "think tank"
and has developed into a highly proactive group. Each of its nine meetings to
date have been characterized by interactive participation. It has discussed in
depth a wide range of issues relating to development strategy, trade and
investment, industrial and technology development, and infrastructure
development, and has established itself as an important forum for member
governments as well as to advise the secretariat on the work programme. It has
also demonstrated the eagerness of ESCAP governments to promote regional
economic cooperation.