Greetings Delegates,

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Welcome to the Economic and Financial Affairs Committee (ECOFIN). It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as your Chair for this vital forum, where the intersection of economics, finance, and international cooperation will be at the forefront of our discussions.

Our agenda, “Evaluating the role of development aid and trade barriers in debt sustainability”, addresses one of the most pressing challenges in the global economy today. Debt can be both a tool for growth and a burden that hinders development, depending on how it is managed. Development aid, if well-structured, can serve as a lifeline to nations in distress, while ill-designed trade barriers can exacerbate financial vulnerabilities. The delicate balance between these forces will be our central focus.

As delegates, I urge you to critically analyze how aid and trade policies shape debt creation, relief, and long-term sustainability. Look beyond traditional narratives—consider the geopolitical motives, the structural inequities in global trade, and the reforms necessary to ensure fairer, more resilient economic systems. Our discussions should not only explore challenges but also strive to propose tangible, forward-looking solutions.

Together, let us foster an environment of informed debate, collaborative problem-solving, and innovative thinking. With your expertise, passion, and commitment, I am confident that this committee will produce meaningful outcomes that can inspire real-world change.

Thank you, and welcome once again to ECOFIN. Let’s work towards building an equitable and financially sustainable global future.

To sustainable progress,

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Divyanshu Ray,

Chairperson, Economic and Financial Affairs Committee