The UNCT and the Government of Bahrain discuss the priorities of the next cooperation framework

The United Nations Country Team (UNCT) and the Government of Bahrain held today in Manama a strategic prioritization workshop to get a common understanding of the state of sustainable development in the Kingdom and identify key opportunities to accelerate achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the country. 

Held only a few days after a meeting of the Joint Steering Committee of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for Bahrain, the workshop aimed to jointly identify strategic priorities for the collaboration between the United Nations and Bahrain as they embark on the formulation and design of a new UNSDCF for the period 2025-2029. 

Participants from the UNCT and different government entities discussed strategic priorities for UN engagement in Bahrain through 2025-2029 based on alignment with national priorities, United Nations added value, and UN guiding and programming principles for a transformational effect, reach and impact. Participants elaborated on development solutions and opportunities that will set the basis for a shared vision of the next development cooperation cycle. 

"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," said Khaled El Mekwad, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bahrain. 

"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," El Mekwad said. 

"As we approach the conclusion of the current framework that commenced in 2021 and is set to end in 2024, we must acknowledge that the past three years have been a testament to the transformative power of partnership. Through the previous framework, we have witnessed remarkable progress. Key initiatives and projects were formulated, and resources were channelled to address pressing challenges, from advancing human capital development to fostering environmental stewardship, we have collectively paved the way for a more prosperous Kingdom of Bahrain," said Sheikh Dr Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs.

"This workshop is integral to defining our strategic priorities and incorporating them into the forthcoming cooperation framework, and in this endeavour, we will draw inspiration and guidance from the 2023-2026 Bahrain's Government Action Plan, which stands as a primary guiding document for our collective efforts," Al Khalifa said. 

Currently, 21 United Nations agencies, funds and programmes support the government of Bahrain through their in-country and regional offices. In preparation for today's prioritization exercise, the UNCT came together earlier this week to collectively reflect on their strengths in the context of Bahrain, elaborate a shared understanding of expectations and comparative advantage of the UN Development System and develop a shared vision of how to continue supporting the Kingdom in achieving the SDGs in 2025-2029.