The weeklong conference began substantive discussions at its opening plenary session. Addressing the session, Secretary-General Supachai Panitchpakdi said urgent problems such as spiralling food prices, global economic and financial turmoil, persistent extreme poverty, energy issues and climate change should be addressed in a comprehensive, forceful agreement at the end of the conference.

Negotiations on the conference outcome have been under way among UNCTAD's 193 member States for six months.  They are continuing this week.

The recent jump in global food prices alone "threatens to undo seven years of progress in poverty reduction," Mr. Supachai warned. “All of these urgent challenges await fresh thinking and fresh approaches for an integrated solution. This conference can send a signal of resolve, and should mandate UNCTAD to mobilize its full intellectual and operational resources in addressing these issues,” he said.

UNCTAD XII, which runs through 25 April, has as its theme Addressing the opportunities and challenges of globalization for development.  Dr. Supachai’s statement came at the first meeting of the Committee of the Whole, which has primary responsibility for negotiating text for the agreed conclusions that are the formal outcome of the conference.  These play a significant role in international policy on trade and development.  They also will set UNCTAD's work programme for the next four years.