UN will ensure technical, financial support for SL’s development – Marc-Andre Franche

The United Nations will continue to provide unwavering technical and financial support for Sri Lanka’s development, UN Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka, Marc-Andre Franche said.

Franche expressed these views during a meeting with Health and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa held at the Health Ministry recently. Accompanied by a delegation, the UN Resident Coordinator emphasised the organisation’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with the Government and the people of Sri Lanka.

Highlighting the challenges ahead, Franche noted that the recent election has raised public expectations to an unprecedented level, making the coming period crucial. He praised Sri Lanka’s efforts to overcome economic and health challenges through programmes implemented with the International Monetary Fund’s assistance, as well as the new Government’s unique initiatives to foster national unity.

The Resident Coordinator also noted the pivotal role media can play in building trust among diverse communities. He expressed confidence in Minister Jayatissa’s ability to lead these efforts, emphasising the UN’s full support for promoting sustainable peace and inclusive development in the country.

The delegation reiterated the UN’s continuous efforts to improve living standards in Sri Lanka, citing the organisation’s long history of aiding the country during development activities and emergencies. Through broad partnerships with civil society, non-Governmental organisations, communities, bilateral donors and international financial institutions, the UN has played a vital role in addressing challenges and fostering progress.

Minister Jayatissa acknowledged the UN’s significant contributions to advancing Sri Lanka’s health, economy, and culture. He stated that continued collaboration with the UN represents a great achievement for the country, paving the way for future progress across all sectors.

Representatives of the UN agencies also provided detailed briefings on their respective programmes aimed at achieving Sri Lanka’s sustainable development goals.

The meeting was attended by several key figures, including Abdur Rahim Siddiqui (WFP Representative), Azusa Kubota (UNDP Resident Representative), Christian Skoog (UNICEF Representative), Chiyo Kanda (World Bank Country Manager), Kunle Adeniyi (UNFPA Representative), Joni Simpson (ILO Country Director), Charles Callanan (UNOPS Country Director), Chen Chen (ADB Country Director), and Kristin Parco (IOM Chief of Mission). Officials from the Health Ministry, including Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe were also present.

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