The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) took part in the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) Eighth Session of the Committee on Environment and Development (CED8) in Bangkok, Thailand. Representing the United States was Marion McFadden, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Community Planning and Development, along with other HUD officials.

McFadden emphasized the Biden-Harris Administration's focus on reducing housing costs while ensuring homes are safe, resilient, and affordable. She stated, "I could not be prouder to have represented the United States given the extraordinary sustainability and resilience work happening in communities nationwide and to collaborate with our international partners on best practices and strategies to build and preserve sustainable and affordable housing for generations to come."

ESCAP is a significant intergovernmental platform in Asia-Pacific that fosters cooperation among its 53 member states and nine associate members to address sustainable development challenges. The CED convenes every two years to discuss regional trends, set priorities for action, promote dialogue, and encourage collaborative approaches to development challenges. This year's session focused on sustainable urbanization.

HUD has previously participated in ESCAP sessions. During bilateral meetings with ministerial counterparts from other countries, HUD leaders highlighted international partnerships aimed at sharing ideas that could enhance HUD program efficiency. HUD remains committed to maintaining working relations by engaging with UN system activities related to housing and urban development.

For more information about HUD's efforts in providing safe, affordable housing or specific programs under CPD, visit their official website.