Govt - UN five year partnership for sustainable, inclusive growth

The United Nations (UN) and the Sri Lanka government signed the 2013-2017 UN Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) on October 4, the agreement which pegs UN assistance to priorities defined by the Sri Lanka government.

The UNDAF provides the overarching framework for all work of the United Nations in Sri Lanka in line with the national priorities of the Mahinda Chintana, the Millennium Declaration and the framework of the Millennium Development Goals.

It aims to support the government to achieve "sustainable and inclusive economic growth with equitable access to quality social services, strengthened human capabilities and reconciliation for lasting peace".

It serves as a common strategy in four major areas of cooperation in equitable economic growth, quality social services, social inclusion and protection and environmental sustainability.

Treasury Secretary Dr P B Jayasundera appreciating the partnership with the UN system said UNDAF was jointly developed by the Finance and Planning Ministry and marks the beginning of a new partnership with the UN.

He said the government appreciated the technical expertise provided by the UN to strengthen implementation of development and humanitarian projects.

The UN agencies in Sri Lanka worked consistently with the government during the planning stages to ensure that the framework is grounded in the realities of the country and, would support efforts to reduce disparities and make a difference in the lives of people, Dr Jayasundera said.

"This process integrates the UN's development activities so that we can best help as a team of partners to bring the fruits of development to all Sri Lankans," UN Resident Coordinator Subinay Nandy said.

The Chair of the UN's Development Group in Asia and the Pacific, Ajay Chhibber, who was also present said: "The consultative process adopted for the development of the UNDAF in Sri Lanka, resulting in the government's full ownership and acceptance of the framework, could serve as a model, and I will carry this experience back to other countries of the region."