2. The Executive Secretary of UNECE, Mr. C. Friis Bach, welcomed the participants, mentioning, in particular, the participants representing emerging economies at the session, and confirmed the high importance of the World Forum WP.29 for UNECE. He discussed the ongoing rapid technological development and underlined the importance of connected vehicles. He acknowledged the challenges remaining in the spread of the technology, mentioning in particular the challenges related to the transition period, when there are both connected and non-connected vehicles on the roads. He also mentioned the challenges related to cyber security. He noted the benefits that new technologies could yield, including mitigating climate change and reducing emissions. He emphasized the role of WP.29 in supporting the spread of technologies, while at the same time ensuring the reliability and safety of the technology. He expressed his appreciation for the work of WP.29.

3. The Executive Secretary informed the World Forum that the selection process for the vacant P-5 post in the Vehicle Regulations and Transport Innovations Section had been concluded and he introduced the new Chief of the Vehicle Regulations Section, Mr. W. Nissler. The Executive Secretary also thanked the secretariat for the excellent work during the transition period and especially Mr. R. Hubert as replacement for the Chief of Section. The World Forum noted that the new P-3 staff member, Mr. M. Gangonells, started his function at the beginning of March 2015 and that he will provide secretariat services mainly to the Working Party on Pollution and Energy (GRPE).