Ambassador Lagumdzija participated in the Second Regular Session of the Executive Board for UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS

During the Second Regular Session of the Executive Board for UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS in August 2024, UNDP held key session – Interactive dialogue with the UNDP Administrator. Administrator Mr. Achim Steiner addressed the critical global challenges, including rising inequalities, climate change, and the widening SDG financing gap. Despite these challenges, Steiner emphasized the potential for progress, citing UNDP’s efforts to foster intergenerational justice, responsible technological advancements, and alternative economic models. He called for continued support to sustain these initiatives.

In response, Dr. Zlatko Lagumdžija, Permanent Representative of Bosnia and Herzegovina, praised Steiner’s leadership and the successful partnership between Bosnia and Herzegovina and UNDP. He highlighted the pivotal role UNDP has played in advancing sustainable development and governance in the country, particularly through the SDG Financing Framework and digital transformation efforts. Dr. Lagumdžija also stressed the importance of regional cooperation with Western Balkan countries and UNDP to achieve shared goals. He concluded by reaffirming Bosnia and Herzegovina’s commitment to strengthening its collaboration with UNDP for a sustainable and resilient future.

Mr. Steiner responded positively to Dr. Lagumdžija’s remarks, expressing gratitude for the acknowledgment and emphasizing the critical role of regional cooperation. He praised Bosnia and Herzegovina’s proactive approach and assured that UNDP would fully support the country’s initiatives, particularly in the areas of digital transformation, health, green economy, and economic integration. Steiner reiterated UNDP’s commitment to collaborating closely with Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Western Balkans to achieve shared development objectives.

Statement of Dr Zlatko Lagumdzija, Permanent Representative of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United Nations:

PERMANENT MISSION OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

TO THE UNITED NATIONS

STATEMENT

H.E. Dr Zlatko Lagumdzija

Permanent Representative of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United Nations

EXECUTIVE BOARD OF UNDP, UNFPA and UNOPS

SECOND REGULAR SESSION 2024

INTERACTIVE DIALOGUE WITH THE UNDP ADMINISTRATOR

CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY

New York

27 September 2024

Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, Mr. President and esteemed Administrator Mr. Steiner,

Firstly, I want to thank Mr. Steiner for his eloquent, precise, and insightful presentation and first wave of replies and comments today as well as his overall leadership and fulfilment of the UNDP mission and the great vision we all share.

It is an honor to address this gathering and reflect on the partnership between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United Nations Development Programme. Our collaboration has been crucial in advancing sustainable development, good governance, and social cohesion.

Guided by the 2021-2025 Country Programme Document, UNDP has played a vital role in promoting sustainable and inclusive growth. Among major achievements is the SDG Financing Framework, adopted in June 2024, focusing on energy and infrastructure, digitalization, and research and development—key areas for accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals and responding to the EU Western Balkans Growth Plan.

UNDP’s contributions to digital transformation and social cohesion in Bosnia and Herzegovina have been transformative. From the creation of an inclusive digital development ecosystem to the digitalization of our social protection systems, their support has enhanced our administrative processes and public service delivery. The Digital Transformation and Public Sector Innovation Academy, along with the establishment of the Public Sector Digital Practitioners’ Community of Practice, exemplifies the forward-thinking approach that is driving Bosnia and Herzegovina’s digital agenda. Their support in governance and human rights aligns perfectly with our EU accession priorities.

Recognizing importance of the regional cooperation like in our case with UNDP’s dedicated efforts and valuable cooperation with the Working Group on the Western Balkans 2030 for the SDGs and the European Union, initiated by Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy, we are committed to further expanding our collaboration with the Western Balkan countries, United Nations and UNDP in New York to help achieve our common targets as part of overall regional cooperation and integration agenda of Western Balkan and EU along SDGs. We are confident that with UNDP’s active engagement, particularly in the areas of digital transformation, health, green economy, education, and economic integration, significant progress will be achieved. We expect UNDP to play a key role in upcoming initiatives, including the digital transformation program funded by DG NEAR, where its expertise in piloting, testing, and upscaling will be crucial. We also anticipate UNDP’s continued involvement in shaping projects under the European Commission’s Growth Plan, especially those aimed at strengthening digital ecosystems and fostering economic integration in the Western Balkans.

In conclusion, the partnership between Bosnia and Herzegovina and UNDP exemplifies how collaboration drives meaningful progress. We are committed to deepening this partnership, ensuring a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for Bosnia and Herzegovina – while elevating our partnership with UNDP on next higher level of shared jurney along SDG and Climate change agendas.

Thank you.

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