She delivered her comments during her speech at the 76th session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) through a video conference on Thursday. The session's theme was centered around promoting economic, social, and environmental cooperation on oceans for sustainable development. Originally planned to attend the meeting in Bangkok and give the keynote address, Hasina had to participate virtually for the first time due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The Bangladesh Ambassador to Thailand and Permanent Representative to the ESCAP, Nazmul Quaunine, was chosen as the chair of the 76th Commission of UNESCAP. Hasina addressed the challenges brought about by the coronavirus crisis, stating that the world is currently facing unprecedented difficulties due to the pandemic. The virus has had a significant impact on our economy, in addition to health issues. Despite this, the pandemic has prompted global efforts to address climate change and competition for natural resources. It is essential for us to address this crisis collectively. Hasina emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in building the capacity of developing countries to sustainably utilize marine resources. She also emphasized Bangladesh's dedication to promoting growth in the blue economy as part of its long-term national development strategy. The prime minister emphasized the importance of oceans and seas as a valuable resource that can help alleviate poverty and provide employment opportunities. She highlighted the need for an integrated response to combat environmental pollutants in marine ecosystems and emphasized the promotion of the blue economy as part of the country's development strategy. The prime minister also discussed Bangladesh's conservation efforts and use of sustainable technologies to protect freshwater and marine resources, as well as the necessity of addressing "fundamental ocean issues" to enhance economic cooperation among ESCAP member countries. Hasina stressed the importance of receiving increased support for capacity building in the Blue Economy through sharing knowledge, expertise, and technology transfer from advanced countries. She also highlighted the necessity of collaborative research among member countries on fisheries development to boost regional fish production and establish a network to combat illegal fishing practices. Hasina called on ESCAP to lead in mapping and managing resources, protecting coastal habitats and biodiversity. Other leaders including Prayut Chan-o-cha, Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, and Kausea Natano also delivered video messages during the session, where Asia Pacific nations agreed to work together to address the socio-economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and adopted a resolution.