Mr. Fernando Henrique Cardoso, Chair of the Panel of Eminent Persons set up to enhance the role and impact of UNCTAD, met with the Secretary-General of UNCTAD to discuss the panel´s future work plan.

The Panel will look into what could be the best strategies to enhance UNCTAD´s development role and impact in fulfilling its mandates as contained in the Bangkok Plan of Action and São Paulo Consensus. The Panel plans to hold its first meeting in late January 2006.

Dr. Supachai and Mr. Cardoso had extensive exchange of views at the subsequent lunch with Ambassadors representing regional groups and President/former Presidents of Trade and Development Board. Ambassadors presented their perceptions on the functioning and orientation of the Organization. H.E. Ian de Jong, Ambassador of the Netherlands, hosted the lunch.

H.E. Mr. Benjamin William Mkapa, President of the United Republic of Tanzania has joined the Panel.