HONG KONG - As the AVPN Global Conference opens Tuesday, its chief executive stressed that Asian voices were needed more than ever to "shape the agenda" and offer solutions that were rooted in the realities of the region.

AVPN is Asia’s largest social investor network with more than 700 funders and resource providers in 43 markets, aimed at increasing the flow and effectiveness of financial, human, and intellectual capital in Asia by enabling its members to channel resources towards impact.

In her opening remarks, Naina Subberwal Batra said that Asia was not only just a key player in the global stage, but is also a "critical driver" of global impact, thus, the need to lead not just from the sidelines.

Asian voices needed to 'shape agenda' - AVPN chief

"We need our Asian voices to shape the agenda, set the pace, and offer solutions that are rooted in the realities of our region," Batra said.

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She also said that the theme of this year's conference, "Asian Leadership for an Inclusive World," reflected the region's collective power and its capacity to drive change,"

"Global progress depends on Asia’s leadership. That leadership comes from demonstrating the clarity of the Asian voice, and the confidence to claim our seat at the table," Batra added.

Hong Kong Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said that Hong Kong has been a "conduit" for global capital and was uniquely positioned for purpose-driven investments.

"We are built for this, Our world class financial and legal systems, as well as topnotch professional services, are underpinned by the 'One Country, Two Systems' framework. We rank among the world's top, from business competitiveness to economic freedom," Chan said.