Thursday, the UN and Iraq sign a new agreement, the Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2025 to 2029, to help the country progress towards its national goals, which are also reflected in the Sustainable development agenda for 2030 adopted by Member States in 2015.
The agreement comes before the closure of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (MANUI), which has been assisting the government on key policy issues for over two decades.
“The signing of the Framework Agreement constitutes a natural and honorable transition in relations between the United Nations and the Republic of Iraq,” declared MANUI Chief Mohamed Al Hassan. “This reflects an orderly and responsible transition from supporting political stability to the stage of consolidating the sustainable development partnership between Iraq and the organization. »
Listen to our interview with Mr. Al Hassan on the closure of UNAMI.
About the frame
In order to reach the 2030 Agendawhich also includes the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), countries must not only work collectively, but also do their part at the national level.
Cooperation frameworks for sustainable development There are agreements between the UN and individual governments that give countries the tools to achieve these goals, from planning to implementation and monitoring.
The plan for Iraq focuses on four main strategic priorities that align with the country’s national development plan:
- Improved access to education, health and social services.
- Create opportunities for employment and economic growth.
- Protect the environment and fight climate change.
- Strengthen the rule of law and good governance.
How will we achieve this?
Implementation, monitoring and reporting of the UN-Iraq Development Framework will be guided by a steering committee co-chaired by the Iraqi Ministry of Planning and the UN Resident Coordinator who leads the country team.
Government institutions and UN agencies will come together to assess progress each year and ensure the framework remains on track.
Implementation will be supported by a dedicated fund, alongside a strategy to mobilize resources for the necessary financing.
Closure of the UN mission
MANUI was created in 2003 following the fall of Saddam Hussein and supported Iraq throughout the political transition, post-conflict recovery and fight against ISIL, also known as Daesh. The special political mission ends its mandate on December 31.
With the country now much more stable than it was twenty years ago, Iraq is striving to acquire greater autonomy.
“Iraq believes that it is ready to move to another phase, consolidating its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Mr. Al Hassan said. said previously UN News. “I believe wholeheartedly that Iraq is ready for this.”
Originally published at Almouwatin.com
