Resident Coordinator's Opening Remarks during UNSDCF 2025-2029 Strategic Prioritization Workshop

Strategic Prioritization Workshop                                                                 24 January 2024

Welcome Sheikh Abdulla, and all participants (both from government and UN) and thank them for their presence today.

This workshop is the culmination of lots of work done – starting with the Joint Steering Committee meeting on Sunday, a full day UNCT retreat on Monday, and much background work on Tuesday.

We gather here to solidify a shared vision for sustainable development and to enhance our collaborative efforts toward achieving Agenda 2030.

Bahrain has made commendable progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting strong national commitment and innovative approaches. Yet, as we approach the final stretch toward 2030, it's crucial to harness this momentum to close existing gaps and further accelerate SDG achievements.

While Bahrain excels in numerous SDG areas, opportunities lie ahead in the 'last mile' of our journey. Today, we'll identify these opportunities and explore how the UN, with its comparative advantage and wealth of expertise, to support Bahrain in this process.

Our strategic priorities will be drawn from a good understanding of Bahrain's unique context. We'll outline areas for a strategic UN engagement from 2025 to 2029, focusing on inclusive and sustainable interventions that propel us toward our shared goals.

In our discussions, we'll envision future scenarios that not only aim for acceleration but also ensure that no one is left behind. This involves identifying and leveraging Bahrain's areas of excellence to set an example for other countries striving toward sustainable development.

The United Nations will continue supporting Bahrain's efforts, as our past initiatives have laid a strong foundation, and ongoing projects continue to support the nation’s priorities, particularly in enhancing data capabilities, advancing gender equality, and fostering sustainable economic growth.

Looking ahead, our contribution is to be a catalyst for Bahrain's sustainable transformation, aligning the new UN Sustainable Development Strategic Framework with Bahrain’s national priorities.

Together, we will craft innovative strategies that best serve the Bahraini people, ensuring enduring prosperity and well-being of people and the environment.

As we proceed with today's workshop, let us engage openly, think innovatively, and commit together wholeheartedly.

Thank you!