Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia to meet in Beirut

The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) will hold meetings in Beirut on May 23-24 dealing with the regional perspective on "how the United Nations can best achieve its goals in the coming millennium," a press release said.

Hazem El-Beblawi, the organization's executive secretary, said ESCWA's hearings will deal with issues of regional interest, including peace, security and economic and social development.

The secretary general will use the results of the ESCWA hearings as well as other regional hearings to produce a report for the UN member states.

The UN General Assembly's 55th meeting, which will start in September 2000, is designated as the Millennium Assembly.