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 on by the coronavirus crisis, stating, "The world is facing unprecedented challenges of the century due to the COVID-19 pandemic." The virus has caused significant damage to both our health and economy. Despite this, the pandemic has also brought about positive changes in global efforts to address climate change and the competition for natural resources. It is important for us to come together to combat this pandemic. Hasina emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in helping developing countries build their capacity to sustainably use marine resources. She also highlighted Bangladesh's dedication to promoting the growth of the blue economy as a key component of their long-term national development strategy. The prime minister emphasized that oceans and seas are a valuable resource that can help reduce poverty and create job opportunities. She stated that environmental pollutants are a major concern for the marine food-web and called for a global effort to use ocean resources in a sustainable and efficient manner. The government has prioritized the growth of the blue economy as part of its long-term national development strategy. The prime minister highlighted Bangladesh's conservation programs and use of eco-friendly technologies to protect freshwater and marine resources. She also discussed key ocean issues that need to be addressed to enhance economic cooperation among ESCAP member countries. Hasina stressed the importance of receiving enhanced support for capacity building in the Blue Economy through knowledge sharing, expertise, and technology transfer from advanced countries. She also highlighted the significance of joint research among member countries on fisheries development to increase regional fish production and establish a common platform network to combat illegal fishing. Hasina called on ESCAP to lead efforts in mapping and managing resource identification, protecting coastal habitat, and biodiversity. Other leaders, including the Prime Ministers of Thailand, Fiji, and Tuvalu, also shared their video messages during the session where Asia Pacific nations agreed to cooperate in addressing the socio-economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and adopted a resolution.