Saudi Arabia at the United Nations: Strengthening development work is an urgent necessity
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the United Nations headquarters in New York, affirmed the pivotal role played by the international development system in supporting member states to achieve their economic and social aspirations, stressing the need for these efforts to be fully consistent with each country’s national plans, in order to ensure the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) effectively and tangibly.
This confirmation came during the Kingdom’s speech delivered by the Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Dr. Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al-Wasil, during his participation in the joint Executive Council meeting of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).
An international context that requires concerted efforts
This meeting comes at a time when the world is facing increasing economic and developmental challenges, making the need to intensify development efforts more urgent than ever. The Kingdom views these UN organizations as vital instruments for bridging developmental gaps between nations, particularly in light of global crises that demand a rapid and flexible response based on long-term strategic planning rather than temporary solutions.
Institutional reforms and innovative financing
As part of its vision for developing UN work, Ambassador Al-Wasel emphasized several key points to ensure efficient performance, most notably:
- Balanced reform: Institutional reforms within UN organizations must be gradual and well-considered, and led by member states to ensure transparency and accurate risk assessment.
- Program alignment: The importance of ensuring that the country programs implemented by the United Nations are aligned with the national priorities of the beneficiary countries, to guarantee the optimal use of resources.
- Developing financing: Advocating for the creation of new financing tools and strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors, to ensure the sustainability of development projects.
Digital transformation and South-South cooperation
The Kingdom's address also highlighted the importance of keeping pace with the digital age, with Al-Wasil reiterating Saudi Arabia's support for maximizing the benefits of digital transformation and modern technologies to accelerate development. The address further emphasized the importance of South-South cooperation and triangular cooperation as effective mechanisms for exchanging expertise and building national capacities, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to supporting global stability and prosperity.
Saudi Arabia's firm commitment to sustainable development
These statements reflect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s firm commitment, stemming from Vision 2030, to actively participate in international decision-making and support efforts aimed at achieving comprehensive development. The Kingdom considers itself a strategic partner of international organizations, not only as a financial supporter but also as a contributor to shaping policies that ensure better governance and a sustainable development impact that benefits all peoples.
