29 July 1016 — Philippine Ambassador and Permanent Representative Maria Zeneida Angara Collinson, officially assumed the Chairmanship of the Asia-Pacific Group of Countries in Vienna at a handover ceremony on July 22. The Philippines took over from Pakistan which chaired the Group from January to June 2016. The Philippines last chaired the Group from July to December 2005.

As Chair, Ambassador Angara-Collinson will lead the Group in advancing the Asia-Pacific region’s interests within the framework of the different UN and other international organizations in Vienna, including the IAEA, UNIDO, CTBTO, and IACA.

In her statement upon assumption, Ambassador Angara Collinson noted that the Asia-Pacific Region is one with many emerging markets experiencing rapid growth and common challenges. She looked forward to cooperating and collaborating with the members of the Group in advancing common interests within the framework of the UN and Other International Organizations in Vienna. After her speech, there was a resounding expression of support from the delegations present during the handover.

The Asia-Pacific Group is composed of 54 UN Member States. Of these, 35 are represented in Vienna. END