She delivered the remarks 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, Hasina was supposed to attend the meeting in Bangkok and give the keynote address, but due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the session had to be conducted virtually for the first time. 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 posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, describing it as an unprecedented crisis of the century. The virus has had a significant impact on our economy in addition to health issues. Despite this, the pandemic has brought about positive changes in how the world is addressing climate change and competition for natural resources. It is crucial that we work together to combat this crisis. Hasina emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in developing countries to ensure sustainable use of marine resources. She also emphasized Bangladesh's dedication to promoting the growth of the blue economy as part of the country's long-term development strategy. The prime minister emphasized the importance of oceans and seas as a valuable resource for alleviating poverty and creating employment opportunities. She highlighted the need for an integrated response to address environmental pollutants in the marine food-web and promote sustainable and inclusive use of ocean resources. The government of Bangladesh is prioritizing the growth of the blue economy as part of its national development strategy. The prime minister also mentioned the conservation programs and use of eco-friendly technologies being implemented to protect freshwater and marine resources. Additionally, she identified key ocean issues that need to be addressed to enhance economic cooperation among ESCAP member countries. Hasina stressed the importance of receiving increased support for capacity building in the Blue Economy sector through the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and technology transfer from advanced countries. She highlighted the need for collaborative research among member countries on fisheries development to boost regional fish production and establish a network to combat illegal fishing. Hasina called on ESCAP to lead efforts in mapping and managing resources, protecting coastal habitats, and biodiversity. Other leaders, including Prayut Chan-o-cha of Thailand, Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama of Fiji, and Kausea Natano of Tuvalu, also shared their video messages during the session. The Asia Pacific nations agreed to work together to address the socio-economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and adopted a resolution.