Prime Minister of Azerbaidjan Artur Rasizade

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Konkolewsky expressed his appreciation for the priority given by the Azerbaijani government to social issues and its support for the new ISSA structure. The ISSA Secretary General expressed his hope that the new initiative, which is hosted by the State Social Protection Fund (SSPF) of Azerbaijan, would contribute to strengthening collaboration and the exchange of good practices among social security institutions in the region.

Referring to the host organization, the Secretary General stated that "the State Social Protection Fund has during the last years developed into one of the most modern and efficient organizations in this field in the Eurasian region," and he expressed his hope for the future development of social security in the country.

Mr Konkolewsky presented the Association's unique position as the world's leading social security organization and highlighted its commitment to promoting dynamic social security amongst its global membership. The widest possible coverage, and effective and efficient administrative and operational capacities guided by the principles of good governance, are some of the key objectives of the ISSA's programme of activities. These objectives will also lie at the heart of activities organized by the new Focal Point together with ISSA member institutions in Eurasia, he stressed.

The Prime Minister welcomed the ISSA initiative and confirmed the full support of his government. He underlined the importance of extending social security coverage, and highlighted the importance of social protection of labour migrants, which was the theme of a Technical Seminar organized by the ISSA in Baku and attended by 70 officials of social insurance and pension funds from ten European and Eurasian countries, as well as representatives of international organizations.