Opening Remarks of UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Hao Zhang delivered at the UNSDCF Validation Workshop

"Your participation today reflects the strong spirit of partnership that is essential for shaping a Cooperation Framework that is responsive and inclusive."

Good morning colleagues,

Honorable representatives from Government, colleagues from civil society, development partners, private sector representatives, youth leaders, UN colleagues, and distinguished participants.

It is a pleasure to welcome you all to this stakeholder validation workshop for the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2027-2031 for the Maldives.

First and foremost, I would like to sincerely thank each of you for your continued engagement and commitment throughout this process. Your participation today reflects the strong spirit of partnership that is essential for shaping a Cooperation Framework that is responsive, inclusive, and grounded in the realities and aspirations of the Maldives.

The development of the UNSDCF is not simply a UN planning exercise. It is a collective process, one that aims to reflect national priorities, the voices of communities, and the perspectives of the many stakeholders who contribute to the country's sustainable development journey.

Over the past few months, we have undertaken an extensive and participatory consultation process. This has included engagements with Government institutions, independent institutions, civil society organizations, development partners, academia, youth representatives, women's groups, the private sector, and UN entities. We have also drawn upon data, evidence, lessons learned, and the experiences from the current Cooperation Framework to help shape the strategic direction for the next cycle.

Throughout this process, we have sought to ensure that the framework reflects the evolving development context of the Maldives, including national priorities, the vulnerabilities and opportunities unique to Small Island Developing States, and the overarching commitment to leaving no one behind.

Today's workshop represents an important milestone in that journey. It is an opportunity to collectively review, validate, and strengthen the proposed priorities, outcomes, and areas of cooperation for the period 2027-2031. Your feedback is invaluable in ensuring that the final framework is robust, relevant, and truly reflective of national needs and stakeholder perspectives.

I would especially like to acknowledge the openness, constructive engagement, and collaborative spirit demonstrated by all stakeholders thus far. The quality of this framework is stronger because of your contributions, your expertise, and your willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.

The United Nations remains fully committed to supporting the Maldives in advancing sustainable development, resilience, inclusion, and prosperity for all people. We look forward to continuing this partnership in the years ahead.

I encourage everyone today to engage openly and actively, to share your perspectives candidly, and to help us further strengthen this framework together.

Thank you once again for your participation and partnership, and I wish us all a productive and successful workshop.