Addis Ababa — The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Carlos Lopes, today in Addis Ababa praised delegates at the African Regional Conference on Population and Development for their commitment to making progress on issues discussed at the forum.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Lopes said the commitments to harmonise national polices on gender equality, to amend or abolish all discriminatory practices against women, improve school enrolment rates, provide universal access to health care, reflect the collective aspirations for a brighter future.

"The passion, commitment and dedication that each and every representative here has put into the process speak volumes for the future we want for Africa.," he said.

On existing gaps in the availability and utilisation of relevant data for planning, monitoring and evaluation, Mr. Lopes said he shared delegates' concern and promised that the ECA would integrate the recommendations made commitments in its programmes and activities.

"We will work with all member states to translate commitments into actions on the ground," he said, adding that the ECA would collaborate with the African Union Commission to submit the conference declaration to the forthcoming African Summit.

More than 800 delegates including African ministers responsible for population and development, the youth and civil society organizations attended the conference.

Issued by: ECA External Communications and Media Relations Section PO Box 3001 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Tel: +251 11 551 5826 E-mail: ecainfo[at]uneca[dot]org www.uneca.org