India-UN Development Partnership Fund Annual Event

Ladies and gentlemen, as we call the house to order, we request the esteemed guests to keep their mobile phones on silent mode, please. Namaskar and good morning, ladies and gentlemen. We welcome the distinguished participants here and those watching us live in virtual mode to the ninth edition of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund annual event. At the outset, we gratefully acknowledge the august presence of the parliamentary delegation led by Srimati Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deo. To commence the program, we request the Permanent Representative of India, Ambassador Harish Parvatineni, to give his opening remarks. Sir, the floor is yours, please.

Thank you. Honorable parliamentary delegation from India, led by Member of Parliament, Mrs. Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deo. Permanent representatives, dear friends, colleagues from UN delegations, ladies and gentlemen, the deputy administrator from the UNDP, the head of the UNOSSC, the head of PAHO, who is here, other partners of the India UN Development Partnership Fund. I wish to take this opportunity to welcome all of you to today's event. It gives me great pleasure to kick off the ninth edition of the India UN Development Partnership Fund Annual Day event. Today we celebrate our shared achievements and renew our commitment to delivering meaningful development outcomes for the global south. I must share at the outset that this is one of my most favorite events of the year. It gives us an opportunity to interact with friends and partners and see what tangible improvement in the lives of their citizens our partnership has made. When we and our members of parliament listen from permanent representatives about the impact that our partnership has made to lives of citizens, It's not only a good feeling, it's a great encouragement to us to do more, to cater to the requirements, the development requirements of your country and your people. And it also gives us a sense of achievement to proceed further ahead on this path. As you know, in 2017, we began this journey with a commitment of $150 million from the government of India to assist friends and partners of the global south to attain their development goals. Our focus is on national ownership, that the projects are nationally driven, tailor-made as per the host country requirements. Our approach to development cooperation is rooted in our civilizational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, that the whole world is one family. We believe that progress becomes more enduring when we share our experiences amongst friends and partners in the global south, strengthen each other's capabilities and advance together. The India UN Fund is a practical expression to this conviction by bringing together the priorities of developing countries. At the heart of our approach is a simple principle that you determine your own development priorities. The proposals we receive from you will reflect the local circumstances and your priorities. They are implemented with your national institutions leading and at the helm. In the entire life cycle of the project, the essential ingredients are mutual respect, unconditional support, national ownership, and partnership among equals, which guides our engagement. This fund is specifically designed to assist the LDCs, the LLDCs, and the SIDS, which reflects our determination to reach those facing acute development challenges. We are halfway through the allocation. of about $82 million that has covered 94 projects in 64 member states. The value of this partnership, as I have said, is understood through the lives it has touched and the lives it has changed. Let me give brief illustrations. Building a disaster-resilient structure in the Bahamas, which functions as a community center and doubles up as a hurricane shelter during natural calamities, strengthening agricultural skills poultry training and expanding opportunities for small-scale farmers in Jamaica, strengthening the resilience and bringing essential health services closer to citizens in remote parts of Paraguay, reduction of preventable maternal mortality by strengthening midwifery education in Rwanda, constructing a check dam to provide a water reservoir with an estimated capacity of 580,000 cubic meters and creating the conditions for more reliable water availability and improving rural livelihoods in Burkina Faso, serving to endure social harmony, community development through musical education in Venezuela, establishing two climate-resilient processing facilities to strengthening local skills and having higher value coconut products for the market in Kiribati. These are some of the many projects that demonstrate our commitment and our South-South cooperation at work. Friends and Excellencies, as we approach 2030, our responsibility is to accelerate implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. Climate pressures, constrained resources and persistent inequalities make effective partnerships very essential. Looking ahead, we should deepen our efforts in strengthening implementation and measured results through improvements in people's lives, alongside timely project delivery. We must invest in national capabilities, ensuring that knowledge, skills, and institutional capacity remain with our partners. We encourage greater exchange among participating countries so that successful approaches could be adapted to other settings. Our experience in digital public infrastructure, affordable healthcare, skills development, and climate resilience offer opportunities for such learning and are guided by your priorities. As we mark this ninth edition, we reaffirm our commitment to this partnership. We are very thankful to the UNDP and the UN Office for South-South Cooperation, which provide fund management and the secretarial services for the effective implementation of our programs. Let us carry forward the spirit of solidarity with renewed purpose, ensuring that our cooperation, especially this South-South cooperation, creates lasting opportunities and reaches those who need it the most. I thank you for your presence.

Thank you, sir. Thank you for setting the agenda and for your remarks, sir. We now request the leader of the delegation, honorable member of parliament, Srimati Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deoji, to please share her thoughts with us. Ma'am, the floor is yours, please.

Permanent Representative of India, His Excellency Ambassador Harish G, my parliamentary colleagues, ambassadors, UN officials, implementing partners, ladies and gentlemen, namaskar, a very good morning to you, and I bring greetings to you from India. It is indeed a pleasure to welcome you to the ninth edition of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund event. Today, we celebrate a partnership rooted in solidarity, strengthened by trust, and measured by the difference it makes in people's lives. As the ambassador said, India's development philosophy draws inspiration from Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which means the world is one family. This conviction reflected in our G20 presidency theme, One Earth, One Family, One Future reminds us that our collective well-being depends on the progress of every nation. For India, development cooperation is a central pillar of our foreign policy. Our approach is demand-driven, consultative, and guided by mutual respect, mutual benefit, and respect for sovereignty. Partner countries identify their priorities. We work together to translate those priorities into tangible outcomes. Excellencies, in 2017, the government of India had pledged a sum of 150 US dollars and established the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, which brings together India's development experience, the expertise of the United Nations, based on the aspirations of partner countries. It demonstrates how South-South cooperation can advance nationally owned solutions and accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. The fund's value is best understood through the communities it serves, strengthening community resilience by upskilling the indigenous population in the Kalinago territory of Dominica, poverty reduction, conservation of biodiversity, and sustainable development in Nigeria, demining the Casamance region of Senegal to restore confidence among the displaced community to commence economic reconstruction, providing assistance to elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B among pregnant women, across 13 Caribbean countries, supporting youth entrepreneurship to help build livelihoods in Burundi are some of the projects worth mentioning here. These initiatives reflect a shared understanding. Develop must empower people, reach the marginalized, and protect the foundations of a sustainable future. The fund is part of India's broader engagement with the global south, and managed in a multilateral context, encompassing concessional finance, infrastructure, humanitarian assistance, capacity building, digital cooperation, and cultural heritage conservation. On a bilateral and a more direct interaction, Government of India's flagship program, ITEC, the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation program has enabled professionals from partner countries to exchange knowledge and develop skills. Educational scholarships and training for foreign diplomats further strengthen these enduring bonds. Since 2014, more than 7,240 civil servants and 1,250 judicial officers have been trained at Indian institutions in the fields of administration, including police, customs, narcotics detection, science and technology, agriculture, and wildlife conservation under the aegis of ITEC. We are also sharing our experience in digital public infrastructure to support accessible public services, financial inclusion, and healthcare. Our objective is to help partners develop solutions suited to their own circumstances and priorities. India has signed new lines of credit with Angola, Mongolia, Maldives, and Mauritius. We have innovatively crafted a rupee-denominated line of credit to the Maldives. India also demonstrated support for partner countries facing financial distress. We have completed the debt restructuring process with Sri Lanka to help recover from its economic crisis. These are some of the milestones that testify our commitment. Friends and Excellencies, As we look ahead, our focus must remain on effective implementation and lasting impact. Infrastructure must serve communities. Training must strengthen institutions. And technology must expand opportunity. Women, young people, and vulnerable communities must remain at the heart of our efforts. Both our bilateral and multilateral engagements sufficiently ensure this approach. In the implementation of the India UN Fund, I thank the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation for providing secretariat and to the participating UN entities for their implementation role and our partnership countries for their commitment and collaboration. We believe The host government's ownership and UN entities' expertise are essential to the fund's success. India remains committed to a development partnership built on learning and working together. Let this ninth edition renew our determination to turn solidarity into action, strengthen resilience, and ensure that the promise of sustainable development is a reality and is achievable even during stressful times for development finance. I thank you very much. Jai Bharat.

Thank you very much, ma'am, for giving an overview of Government of India's assistance programs being implemented in the Global South. Thank you so much. We now request the Associate Director of UNDP, His Excellency Mr. Shu Howl Young, to detail about UNDP's association with the India UN Fund. Sir, the floor is yours.

Honorable Mrs. Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deoji, Honorable Members of Parliament, Dear Ambassador Harish, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is a great pleasure to join you today at the ninth annual event of the India UN Development Partnership Fund. On behalf of the administrator of UNDP, Alexander de Kruif, I thank the people and the government of India for its sustained commitment to support global sustainable development. Today's theme, South-led solutions, shared results, reflects a powerful reality. Countries of the Global South are not only developing themselves. They are also increasingly innovators, partners, and providers of solutions. Since 2017, the India-UN Development Partnership Fund has supported 94 projects in 64 countries connecting India's financial resources and the development experience with the critical needs of partner countries. Grounded in country ownership and demand-driven support, the fund exemplifies the principles of effective South-South cooperation. The NTP is proud to have implemented 40 of these 94 projects, delivering more than $31 million in accelerating the achievement of the SDGs. Together, we have helped translate SaaS cooperation into practical solutions that have improved the lives, strengthened institutions, and expanded opportunities. The impact is visible. During my recent visit to Burkina Faso, I witnessed, together with the Indian ambassador, how support from India has helped the communities to construct the Nyando Dam and build resilient livelihoods through irrigation, women's cooperatives, community fisheries, and school improvements, benefiting more than 50,000 people. In Venezuela, as was mentioned earlier, with India's support, ENDP has helped to strengthen the El Sistema program, the country's renowned youth music education program, to expand inclusive music education that promotes social cohesion and resilience among more than 1.1 million children and young people. In the Federated States of Micronesia, India funded climate-resilient health facilities and telehealth connections both of which are expanding access to essential healthcare in remote island communities. Excellencies, as traditional ODA comes under severe stress, India's continued commitment to multilateralism and the South-South cooperation demonstrates the immense value of solidarity. India's support touched the people's lives. As the Fund approaches its 10th year, let us build on the success of this remarkable partnership. Let us continue connecting countries through ideas, expertise, and shared experience. And let us ensure that the next decade delivers even greater resilience and prosperity for communities everywhere. Thank you very much.

Thank you so much, Mr. Shu-Hao Liang. The project in Burkina Faso is set to be handed over on the 27th of October, next week. Thank you so much. We now request the technical team to play a short video showing snippets of the ongoing programs in various countries.

Development begins with people, their priorities, and the solutions they choose to build. Since 2017, the India-UN Development Partnership Fund has connected national priorities with resources and knowledge through South-South cooperation. Established in 2017, the US$150 million India-UN Development Partnership Fund is supported and led by the Government of India, managed by the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation, and implemented with the United Nations system. The Fund has supported 95 projects across 65 countries, advancing all 17 SDGs, with a strong focus on LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS. Across the portfolio, the Fund works with 15 United Nations agencies, funds and programmes, bringing specialised expertise from multilateral system to nationally led projects. In Dominica's Carinago Territory, the government, Carinago Council and UNDP are strengthening agriculture and restoring natural resources. Eight community greenhouses and around 10,000 forest and food trees are supporting livelihoods, while a new phase connects climate resilience with local knowledge, economic opportunity, and Kalinago heritage. In Rwanda, investment in midwifery is strengthening care for mothers and newborns. New training standards and scholarships are helping expand and strengthen the midwifery workforce. Through South-South exchanges, lessons from India and Ghana are also being adapted locally, including the use of virtual reality technology in midwifery education. In Burkina Faso's Poa commune, unpredictable rainfall has long limited water access and livelihoods. With support from the India UN Fund, the government and UNDP built the long-awaited Niangdo Dam, now serving around 50,000 residents and strengthening water security and local opportunities. In Lao PDR, a staple food is becoming part of the solution to better nutrition. Through large-scale rice fortification, the government and WFP are helping bring essential vitamins and minerals into everyday diets, while building local capacity to produce fortified rice at scale. The project is expected to benefit 16,000 men, women, and children through the fortified rice pilot. In Venezuela, music is opening opportunities for young people. With support from UNDP, more than a thousand musicians and beneficiaries have strengthened their artistic skills, while musicians from across the Global South exchange knowledge and experience. The project promotes peace and social cohesion through music and supports an El Sistema network intended to reach more than 1.1 million children and young people. Different priorities, shared solutions, national ownership, stronger local capacity and knowledge exchange in solidarity. Across regions and communities, the India UN Fund turns South-South cooperation into practical results, led by countries and sustained by people.

We hope you all liked the video showing the of the development program that are being implemented. We now request the permanent representative of Tuvalu, His Excellency, Mr. Tapu Gaofalefo, to take the floor, please. Excellency.

Thank you, Mr. Raita. Honorable head of the parliamentary delegation of India and your delegation, Ambassador Harris, UN representatives, Excellencies, colleagues, talofa and good morning. Tuvalu wishes to express its sincere appreciation to the Government of India and the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation for their continued leadership and support through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. This fund stands as a practical demonstration of international solidarity and South-South cooperation delivering tangible development benefits to vulnerable communities in countries including small island developing states, such as Tuvalu. Over the years, Tuvalu has benefited from several impactful initiatives supported through this partnership. Included in this is the installation of a solar home standalone energy system for the community of Funota in one of the islands of Tuvalu. which has improved access to reliable and sustainable energy. More recently, in 2023, Tuvalu received support for a climate-resilient water supply project for the Motufoua Secondary School on the island of Vaitupu, amounting to 721,000 US dollars. Through this project, a large water storage was being installed, which will significantly improve the school water security and resilience to drought and water shortage associated with climate change. This investment will certainly provide lasting benefits for 400 plus students, 30 plus teachers and the wider school community, while strengthening one of Tuvalu's most important educational institutions. Chair, I will be very brief. This project demonstrates the value of development cooperation that is responsive to national priorities and local needs. Tuvalu remains deeply grateful to the Government of India for its commitment to supporting developing countries through practical action and partnership. We look forward to further collaboration under the Fund in advancing resilience, sustainable development, renewable energy, water security, and the achievement of the sustainable development goals. I thank you.

We thank you your excellency. Your words mean a lot to us. Thank you. We now request the PR of Saint Lucia, Madam Minister Rambali, who is just rushing from the GA Assembly to be here with us. Ma'am, the floor is yours.

Thank you very much. Good morning. colleague, Excellency Ambassador of India, distinguished members of Parliament, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. Good morning. It's a wonderful opportunity to be here today, and I join in a special welcome to the visiting delegation of India. And I am so pleased to participate in this 2026 commemoration of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. The purpose of the fund is multifaceted and continues to be an extraordinary example of how South-South cooperation facilitates economic and social development across countries of the global majority. We can speak to so many examples today. But allow me to share that we may recall that the relevance of such collaboration was the subject of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, which convened last July under the auspices of the Economic and Social Council. During the high-level forum, significant emphasis was placed on implementation of commitments made by the international community with full appreciation for the integrated, indivisible and interlinked nature of the Sustainable Development Goals. During the discussions at the forum, there was sober reflection that the promises of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development are being challenged by the current international environment of instability, which is impacting all of us on a number of levels, whether it is climate change, desertification, the vagaries of war, rising inequalities, and other pressing matters. during this year's general assembly St. Lucia's prime minister reminded that we are in a moment of profound International uncertainty with conflict spreading trust eroding and development gains being reversed with the rules intended to protect Humanity too often applied selectively thus It is important for us to continue the holistic approach to development as exhibited by the India UN Development Partnership Fund in advancing progress to meet these global challenges. Small island states and other developing countries are no strangers in confronting these issues as we strive in our individual and collective efforts to advance our countries to meet the SDGs. Dear colleagues and friends, Make no mistakes, our challenges are formidable. We are all too often the subject of accelerating impacts of climate events, such as the recent powerful storms in the Asia Pacific region and the similar weather events in the Caribbean and Central American regions. I can list many, but time doesn't allow. These storms are more numerous and more powerful as a result of climate change. Massive flooding in Asia and the devastating droughts in parts of Africa further challenge a sustainable future. Our capacity to mitigate potential climate-induced disasters must outpace the increasingly intensified environment. These impacts are disproportionately felt by the people of the global majority who are the least responsible for the effects, the most vulnerable, and possessing the least capacity to mitigate the recovery. Suffice to say that our respective vulnerabilities to these events can have a deleterious effect that limit the event delay progress on achieving the very SDGs for many of our countries. I share these examples only to illustrate the critical importance of the India UN Development Partnership Fund, which is a beacon of distinction in capacity building for countries of the global majority. The support provided is instrumental as countries seek to meet the contemporary challenges in myriad areas of social and economic development. The work of the India Development Partnership Fund is testament to the type of creative collaboration, which is what is required if we are to meet the SDGs and to advance sustainable development of our people and our planet. It is remarkable that the Fund has supported some 95 projects in 65 countries, implemented by 14 UN entities. This collaboration is at the highest level, and we take the opportunity to commend. In closing, I look forward to hearing even more about the accomplishments of the Fund as carried out in its various projects of support for sustainable, multidimensional development in the Global South. as set forth in the 2026 India UN Fund in the year of review. I can attest to the fine work which has been undertaken by the fund even in my own country. But given time, I will not continue and go on. I think you see my excitement about this one. And the eagerness with which we continue to participate and how happy we are as a small island developing state, Saint Lucia, to be a part of this wonderful initiative which is impacting meaningful and real ways. I thank you and I look forward to the rest of the morning. Thank you.

Thank you so much, ma'am. As board member, your words have higher validity. We now request the PR of Timor Leste, his excellency, mister Dionisio da Costa B. Suarez.

The honorable Sangeeta Kumari, Head of Parliament delegation and the honorable members of Parliament, the PR of India, Ambassador Harris, and all assistant director of United Nations present here. Ladies and gentlemen, Timor-Leste is honored to participate in this event of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. We sincerely thank the government of India, the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation and participating UN entities for their continued commitment to sustainable development through South-South cooperation. Since its establishment in 2017, the Fund has become an important expression of solidarity among developing countries. Its value extends beyond financial contributions. It shows how Global South countries can work together, share experiences, and develop practical solutions based on mutual respect, national ownership, and shared development aspirations. For Timor-Leste, a least developed country and small island developing state, this approach is particularly meaningful. South-South cooperation allows developing countries to learn from one another, exchange technical expertise, strengthen institutional capacities, and adopt successful approaches to their own circumstances. We have benefited directly from this cooperation. Through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, the UNDP implemented project leveraging ICT to improve education and skills in Timor-Leste, expanded access to digital education in Waikusi, providing students and teachers in 23 schools with access to computer and robotic facilities, and opportunities to develop digital skills. We also appreciate India's contribution alongside other countries through the separate IBSA fund, including its endorsement of an initiative to support Timor-Leste's national science, technology, and innovation policy, in addition to other bilateral cooperation. These initiatives reflect the value of development partnership that combine financial support, technical expertise, and national engagement. They also remind us that the importance of sustained coordination, mutual learning, and national ownership in advancing shared development priorities. Excellencies, Timor-Leste's experience with the Fund demonstrates how South-South cooperation can translate shared commitments into meaningful opportunities for our people, particularly the younger generation. We look forward to seeing these partnerships continue to inspire practical solutions, strengthen national capacities, and contribute to lasting development and progress across the global South. I thank you.

Thank you, Excellency. We now request the Permanent Representative of Cuba, Ambassador Ernesto Guzman, to say a few words. Excellency, the floor is yours, please.

Thank you, Mr. Moderator. Honorable Sangeeta Kumari. Honourable members of the Parliament, dear Ambassador Harish, Excellencies, dear colleagues, on behalf of the government and people of Cuba, I extend our sincere gratitude to the government of India for its solidarity and commitment to the well-being of the people of the Global South. Cuba reaffirmed the importance of the international collaboration and South-South cooperation as essential tools for strengthening solidarity, complementarity and mutual support among developing countries. By sharing knowledge, experiences, technologies and resources, we can build collective capacities, address common challenges and advance towards sustainable development, leaving no one behind. In an increasing unjust and exclusionary international order, these forms of cooperation are more necessary than ever to overcome structural inequalities expand opportunity for our peoples, and strengthen the collective voice of the Global South in the pursuit of a more equitable, inclusive, and democratic international system. India's leadership in the Global South and its support for South-South cooperation demonstrate the power of partnerships built on equality, mutual respect, and shared aspiration for sustainable development. We particularly appreciate the recent support of India UN Development Partnership Fund for a project to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity in Cuba. This initiative is a true expression of friendship between our nations, especially at such a difficult time for my country when we are facing unprecedented UCMs and an energetic siege from the US. Protecting the life and health of mothers and newborns is a fundamental priority for Cuba. This support represents not only a contribution to public health, but also an investment in healthier families, stronger communities, and a better future. The India UN Development Partnership Fund shows how cooperation among countries of the South, supported by the United Nations, can translate solidarity into concrete actions guided by the national priorities and the needs of our people. As we advance toward the Sustainable Development Goals, partnerships of this kind remind us that progress must be shared and that no country should face its challenges alone. Cuba reaffirms its commitment to South-South cooperation and to further strengthen our bilateral ties of friendship and cooperation with India. To the Government of India and the Fund, Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your solidarity. I thank you.

We thank you, Mr. Ambassador. May we request the Permanent Representative of Moldova, His Excellency Mr. Georgie Alecu, to share his thoughts, please. Sir, the floor is yours.

Excellencies, distinguished participants, first, I would like to thank the Permanent Mission of India for organizing and inviting us to this annual event. On behalf of my government, I thank the government of India for its generous support for the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. I also warmly welcome the Indian parliamentary delegation and express our appreciation to UNDP, United Nations Office of South-South Cooperation, and UFP for our productive partnership. The theme of this year's event, South-led Solutions, Shared Results, captures the value of their cooperation, responding to nationally identified needs, drawing on shared knowledge and delivering practical benefits for people, especially those in vulnerable situations. For my country, this approach has taken concrete shape through two projects that have strengthened our capacity to turn population data into better public policies. The first project helped establish a statistical population register, enabling our National Bureau of Statistics to produce more reliable, disaggregated data on population and mitigation. and migration also. It has also supported the generation of a gender survey reaching more than 10,000 people across 153 localities. The second project built on this foundation to advance a register-based statistical system capable of responding to humanitarian and emergency shocks. Together, these projects illustrate how investment in national capacities can support several development objectives at once, from gender equality and social inclusion to stronger institutions and greater resilience. They also demonstrate the importance of national ownership. Cooperation delivers lasting value. It strengthens the system that countries themselves will continue to use and develop. At a time of growing pressure on development assistance, India's sustained commitment sent an important message. Partnerships built on solidarity, mutual respect, and national priorities can continue to deliver tangible progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Looking ahead, the broader lesson is that every country has something to contribute to development cooperation. That contribution may take the form of resources, institutional experience, or a practical solution developed in response to a shared challenge. For the Republic of Moldova, this is what makes South-South and triangular cooperation especially meaningful. Countries can benefit from support while also contributing knowledge and experience. The experience generated by a project can therefore continue to create value value long after its completion and well beyond the country that is began. We thank India and the United Nations Office of South-South Cooperation for partnership that embodies this spirit. My country stands ready to deepen its engagement as both a beneficiary and a contributor, sharing its experience and learning from drivers to turn shared solutions and lasting benefits for people. I thank you.

Thank you, sir. We now request the permanent representative of the Federated States of Micronesia to detail about the projects being implemented in his country. Ambassador Lipwe, sir.

Thank you, moderator. good friend PR from India the chair and members of the Indian parliamentary delegations UNDP and our friends from the UN office of South South Corporation excellencies and dear colleagues it is a profound honor for Micronesia to be part of this ninth edition of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund annual event. On behalf of the government and people of Micronesia, I express our sincere gratitude to the government of India and the UN Office for South-South Cooperation for organizing this event. I also warmly welcome the distinguished parliamentary delegation from India for joining us today. Today's event stands as a clear testament to our collective achievements. Amidst a difficult global landscape marked by debt, economic uncertainty, and escalating climate threats, South-South cooperation is an indispensable lifeline. For small island developing countries like Micronesia, traditional development frameworks can sometimes overlook our unique cross-cutting vulnerabilities. This is why Micronesia deeply appreciates the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. It stands as a beacon of genuine solidarity and partnership. offering tangible, demand-driven support that respects our national ownership. What makes the India UN Fund truly transformative is its focus on sustainable, multi-dimensional development. Rather than treating development as a series of isolated targets, the Fund recognizes that true resilience requires addressing economic, social, and environmental challenges simultaneously. In Micronesia, this holistic approach is actively transforming lives on the ground across multiple critical dimensions. With India's assistance, we are expanding primary healthcare access, quality, and medical technology across our scattered and remote islands, ensuring that universal health coverage becomes a reality for our most vulnerable populations. True development cannot exist without climate resilience. Vital initiatives like our Climate Early Warning Systems Assistance Project directly helps highly vulnerable island nations anticipate, prepare for, and recover from severe weather and climate disasters. By reinforcing Micronesia's national gender machinery, the India UN Fund has driven projects since 2020 that advances women's economic empowerment, leadership development, and access to small infrastructure, small-scale infrastructure. This ensures that our sustainable development journey is inclusive and leaves no one behind. The assistance towards solarization of our head of state's residence and office serves as a powerful symbol of our shared vision. It bridges local institutional capacity with a global commitment to a clean, green, and sustainable future. This comprehensive efforts prove that effective South-South cooperation must always center on people, dignity, and long-term resilience. The India-EU Fund exemplifies how targeted, flexible partnership can spark deep, multi-dimensional progress, transforming structural challenges into scalable models of success. As we look forward toward the future, Micronesia proudly reaffirms its commitment to this strategic partnership. Together, in a spirit of equality and shared prosperity, we will continue to advance our collective sustainable development agenda. Thank you.

We thank you, Excellency. Your words accurately reflect the work being done. in the projects. We now request the permanent representative of the Commonwealth of Dominica, his excellency, Doctor Philbert Aaron, to make his intervention, please. Sir, the floor is yours.

First of all, my most profound apologies. Uh there is a a saying that in our business the Prime Minister comes before the minister, who comes before the the ambassadors, diplomats. I was called to an urgent actually I in Spanish I was ambassador to Venezuela in Spanish. It is said more brutally. I said the president kills the minister, the minister kills the the ambassador. Yeah. But that's where I that's where I learned it. But I I did not want to be So on coup. So that will be rubbed off the record. And so, honorable member of the Parliament of India, leader of the parliamentary delegation, members of the honorable Parliament of India, my colleague the distinguished ambassador of India to the United Nations. Ambassador Harish. To his right, my good friend and colleague Ambassador Ambali. other ambassadors present friends I have three simple messages. Um and they are one gratitude for the support that Dominica has received. For monies allocated by the honorable Parliament of India. Two my emphasis, Dominica, Dominica's emphasis on the identity of the the direct recipients of the money that you have so generously allocated. And the briefest comment on the impact. So first of all from the Prime Minister of Dominica. From the Minister for Foreign Affairs. The Minister for Kalinago Affairs. the Kalinago people of Dominica and all of the people of Dominica. Our most profound thanks to you for allocating a portion of the sweat, the wealth of your country to ours. Thank you very much. We want that to be very clear. We are grateful, most grateful to you and your country and people for this support. Secondly, the identity of your of the recipients direct beneficiaries of your generous allocation. Uh I I usually play with that one. and my colleague from Saint Lucia, my neighbor down in the Caribbean is on pins and needles right here. So, The people who benefit directly from this project, which is called Strengthening Community Resilience within the Kallinago Territory, they are your cousins. If they're not your cousins, at least they're named after you, all right? They are Indians. The story is well known by most that this fellow was seeking a sea trade route to your country. And our cousins, the Ghanaians, helped them find a route through my country. And as a result, this great navigator, who has statues all over the world, for being the greatest navigator on earth, reached my country and didn't know he had not reached yours. And for about eight years, the great European navigators did not know that they were not in your country. And the name Indian is given not only to all the peoples of our West Indies islands, but the people, the last surviving, the last surviving indigenous people of the islands. Other people boast. I hope nobody there is, nobody is. I hope none of my competing tourism countries are here. But everybody boasts of having indigenous people in the islands. Ah, I just saw a competitor, tourism destination. And But the only light-skinned indigenous people, and it's there in the photograph, in the Caribbean, well, forget the Caribbean, the Caribbean is islands plus mainland, in the islands, is in the Commonwealth of Dominica. And making light of it, but it's a sad story. We know this how sad it is. It's a heavy matter. But I only refer to that aspect to show you, you, the members of Parliament, of the honorable Parliament of India, how important and critical, what great judgment you had supporting these projects for these beneficiaries. And so they are the Kalinago people. They decided in 2014 to revert to their original name, which is Kalinago. They're usually called the Carib Indians, but they reverted to that name in 2014. You should know that they are reservation people. They live on a reservation in Dominica, and They have the most inaccessible, least fertile. It's environmental racism by the Europeans, none of whom are here now. They were pushed into a corner of this country. Dominica is the most rugged piece of territory on Earth. Really, it is compared with Switzerland. and Venezuela for its ruggedness. And they were pushed into this little corner. And the intention actually was to eliminate them. Anyway, by the time the tides changed and black people were going to inherit the rule of that island, the Europeans thought it would be a wise thing to codify some of the rules around the land, the territory, and give them some local autonomy over their own affairs. These are the people your cousins that you have allocated. We all benefit. Dominica. We are all grateful. But I would like for you to remember and imagine that these are the direct beneficiaries of this project. And if you remember that, that your light-skinned cousins in Dominica are the ones who are the direct beneficiaries, my job will be done. So that is key, the identity of the Kalinago. We are very grateful to the Kalinago for the work that they have done. They kept away colonization of Dominica for hundreds of years. They protected the entire region. But thanks to them, Dominica was colonized effectively about 200 years later than Barbados, where there are no light-skinned indigenous people, for example. So we have the identity in Dominica of being a Kalinago country and a Negro Maroon country. That is key to our identity. Let me close on the other aspect of the impact. I will not use statistics, I'll just use anecdotal stuff. So Dominica in its attempt to give back to the Kalinago people what was not possible to give back. They lost their language, the political system, the religion, the way of life, all of that was lost. The last recording of their language being used in natural in a natural context was in 1950. It's in a British BBC recording of the felling of a tree. Uh but the Commonwealth of Dominica has tried to do good by our Kainago brothers and sisters. And and so the Kainago people have as I said before a Kalinago council that they lead themselves through. And since 2000, there is a Ministry of Kalinago Affairs to which a Kalinago person is named as minister. And there is a dominant constituency, meaning an electoral district in our parliamentary, Westminster parliamentary system, which is predominantly Kalinago. So they have at least three levels of government, more so than others in Dominica. A council, a ministry, and an elected representative. The president of Dominica, the first female president of Dominica, is now for the first time a Kalinago female. So we hit two. boxes, check two boxes. That is not very that box checking is running out of favor. Even in just places as like the UN. But we have we have a president who is female and for the first time is Kalinago. And the connection here is that during her last visit to high level week, she testified on her direct knowledge of this project. Including that this project, in addition to its stated goals of environmental rehabilitation, creating a way of life and economic livelihood for the community, that it was impactful on hiring of Kalinago young men to do the work. We all know that in many situations, the beneficiaries only benefit from the final product. But in the process here, which is relevant to you, you are doing a self-self, an element of self-self cooperation. The Kalinago, especially young men in this case, were critical of our president as testified in this project. So I want to close here by reminding you that we are very grateful for this allocation of these resources. We value those resources. and to remind you kindly that although we all agree and enjoy and appreciate ******* and Calinago together, but please remember the identity of these people I think is important. They have been nearly erased, so memory is important here. And finally, it is a successful project. It has impacted the entire community and we could even get testimonies from the highest leader of our country on this one. Um and in fact, full project. So, with these words, I want to say thank you again and thank you NDP that I neglected to to recognize previously. So, thank you. Thank you, brother Harish. Thank you to the parliament of India. Thank you everybody for listening. Thank you.

Thank you, sir. Your speech covering the historical anecdote is well received and we are also happy to note that the progress being made on the Kalinago project is making headways. Thank you, sir. We now request his excellency, mister Jayanta Jayesuriya, permanent representative of Sri Lanka to give a glimpse of cooperation and assistance programs between our two countries. Sir.

Thank you. and Excellency Ambassador Parathineni Harish, Permanent Representative of India, Honorable Sangeeta Kumari, and all other members of the parliamentary delegation from India, officials from the UNDP, UNOICC, distinguished Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, Friends, Aibon, good morning. I thank Ambassador Harish and the Permanent Mission of India for bringing us together to celebrate nine years of the India UN Development Partnership Fund. I also thank the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation for managing the fund, and the UN agencies and national partners who make its work possible. This year's theme, South-led Solutions, Shared Results, captures what makes the fund special. In nine years, it has supported more than 90 projects across 65 countries. From solar-powered water purification systems on remote Pacific islands to midwifery training in East Africa, these projects respond to needs identified by the countries themselves. That respect for national priorities matters. Developing countries have learned a great deal from confronting their own challenges. We have experience and knowledge worth sharing and much to learn from one another. At a time when development financing is under growing pressure, South-South cooperation is especially valuable. It gives countries another way to pool their strengths and make progress on priorities that matter to their people. India has long been a steadfast champion of South-South cooperation. Its support during Sri Lanka's economic crisis demonstrated the value of this partnership. Sri Lanka regards India as an important development partner and continues to strengthen cooperation through enhanced collaboration. Through this fund, India has further backed that commitment with resources and practical support. Excellencies, India's leadership reflects the very spirit of this fund, responding to countries' needs and providing practical, tangible support. In the Caribbean, the fund has helped build a hurricane shelter capable of withstanding category five storms and accommodating up to 800 people. We know what that kind of preparedness can mean when disasters strike. Last November, Cyclone Dikta brought devastating floods and landslides to Sri Lanka. Hundreds of people lost their lives and entire communities were cut off. India was among the first to respond. Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, Indian rescue teams arrived within 24 hours, bringing urgently needed assistance. For families waiting for help, that swift response made a real difference. It was a neighbor coming to the aid of a neighbor at a moment of great need. India's support has continued into the difficult work of recovery and reconstruction. The people of Sri Lanka will remember this timely support, and we remain grateful. This is the kind of practical, responsive cooperation that lies at the heart of the Fund's mission. Sri Lanka congratulates India and its partners on nine years of achievement. We look forward to the Fund's continued success and to stronger cooperation among countries of the Global South.

I thank you.

Thank you for your kind words, sir. The India-UN Development Partnership Fund is implementing rice fortification project in Lao PDR. In this connection, we request the Permanent Representative of Lao PDR, His Excellency, Tong Van Sonvet to reflect on the importance of the project. Sir, the floor is yours.

Thank you. His Excellency, Ambassador Harish, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, Honorable Members of Parliament, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues and friends. At the outset, please allow me to express my sincere thanks to the Permanent Mission of India for organizing this very important event and for an opportunity for the Lao PDR to share its experience as a partner country and beneficiary of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. We commend the Government of India and the UN Office for South-South Cooperation for the vital role in promoting and facilitating South-South cooperation, including through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. These efforts have been instrumental in strengthening partnerships among countries in the Global South and in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The India-UN Development Partnership Fund serves as a concrete example of solidarity and partnership among developing countries in supporting national development priorities. Excellencies, the Lao PDR and India have maintained excellent bilateral relations and cooperation. In addition to support through bilateral cooperation, India has also extended its generous support for our national priorities through other cooperation mechanisms such as United Nations, ASEAN, and Mekong Ganga cooperation, among others. Under the South-South cooperation, in 2015, India funded a project on integrated irrigated agriculture in the central province of the Lao PDR. Now supported by the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, the ongoing 1 million USD two-year projects from April 2025 to June 2027, entitled Strengthening Large-Scale Food Fortification in Lao PDR, The case for investing in rice fortification is being implemented by the Ministry of Health of the Lao PDR and the World Food Programme. It aims to establish a sustainable and evidence-based rice fortification programme to address micronutrient deficiencies in the Lao PDR. The project seeks to create an enabling environment for rice fortification through policy development, private sector engagement, institution capacity strengthening, pilot implementation, and development of social marketing and demand generation strategies for fortified rice. We highly appreciate India for sharing its knowledge and experience in rice fortification with Lao PDR. We are also very grateful to India for its continued partnership and cooperation through various projects and initiatives which exemplify the power of South-South cooperation. This partnership reflects our strong bilateral relations and our commitment to supporting sustainable development in the Global South. Looking ahead, we believe that the India-UN Development Partnership Fund remains crucial to supporting the strengthening of partnerships and sustainable development in the Global South. and to reaffirming the principles of equality, solidarity, and demand-driven cooperation that are central to South-South cooperation. In conclusion, the Lao PDR reiterates its commitment to work closely with India, the UN Office for South-South Cooperation, and other UN agencies for effective implementation of projects supported by the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. and for building resilient, prosperous, and sustainable future for all. I thank you.

Thank you, Your Excellency. We now request the permanent representative of Tanzania, Ambassador Toggalani Adris Maura, to take the floor, please.

Honorable Sanjita Kumar, Chair and Head of Delegation, Ambassador Harish, United Republic of Tanzania expresses sincere appreciation to the Government of India, United Nations system and the India-UN Development Partnership Fund for their continued commitment to supporting sustainable development in Tanzania and other developing countries. We express appreciation to India for stepping up to support developing countries. We understand India is also facing challenges at home, but that does not limit India to share and support other countries beyond the borders, the needy ones. It is about the size of the heart that matters than the size of the pocket. It is about the intention, not seeking political attention that matters. It is about support of India being quiet, but very, very loud to our hearts. And that can demonstrate it from the heart to the heart. I commend also the Parliament of India and through you, Honorable Sanjita, to the people of India for supporting the Indian government to play this important role to make the world a better place. I know it is not easy for the government to do so if without the support of the parliamentarians of India and through you, the people of India. In a special way, I would like to mention Ambassador Harish for championing Indian ODA. You are doing a great job. You have given us one of your best and he present here in New York, the best of India. So I have to commend and mention you as well. In Tanzania, continues to experience increasing climate-related shocks, including drought, floods, changing rainfall patterns, and other extreme weather events that affect agriculture, livestock, water resources, infrastructure, and livelihoods. These impacts place significant pressure on public finance and threaten progress towards achieving the sustainable development goals and national development priorities. Building financial resilience to climate shocks has therefore become an urgent national priority. We therefore welcome the consideration of Tanzania project, enhancing Tanzania financial resilience through the climate change and resilient program, CIRP, as a very timely and strategic intervention to address growing climate related risks. The proposed program will strengthen Tanzania capacity to anticipate, prepare, and recover from climate-related disasters through innovative climate risk financing and insurance mechanism. The project will help reduce the economic burden of climate disasters on vulnerable communities, particularly small and less farmers, pastoralists, women, and youth. It will strengthen national capacities in disaster risk management, climate adaptation, and financial planning. So therefore, Tanzania reaffirmed the strong commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the project, and we express our confidence that with the support of the India UN Development Partnership Fund and UN partners, the program will contribute significantly to safeguarding livelihood, strengthening resilience, and advancing sustainable development in Tanzania. I thank you.

Thank you, Excellency. We now request the Permanent Representative of Mozambique, His Excellency Mr. Domingos Estevao Fernandes, Sr.

Thank you, Mr. Moderator. Firstly, I wish to thank Ambassador Harish and the Government of India for convening this commemoration. of the 90th anniversary of the India-United Nations Development Partnership Fund. And also welcome Honorable Madam Sanjita Kumari and honorable members of the Indian Parliament. I also acknowledge the UNDP Associate Administrator, Mr. Modirata. Mozambique commends this initiative which has been active through more than 90 projects in 63 countries as a compelling example of what South-South cooperation can deliver when political commitment is matched by concrete action. And Mozambique is one of those beneficiaries. In Macomia District, Cabo Delgado Province in Mozambique, the Fund supported the rehabilitation and expansion of a health facility in a region exposed to recurrent climate shocks and persistent insecurity. Following the devastating cyclones Idai and Kenneth in 2019, the project built back better, integrating sustainable energy, clean water and sanitation. That single intervention advances Sustainable Development Goals 3, 6 and 7 together. And it shows how solidarity reaches the communities that need it most. At a time when the world faces a substantial financing gap in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, the India-UN Development Partnership Fund offers an encouraging concrete example of what is possible. South-South cooperation grounded in national ownership, equality, and non-interference offers a model worth sustaining. It complements North-South cooperation. Therefore, Mozambique commends India's leadership in advancing South-South cooperation and partnership. We stand ready to strengthen and deepen this cooperation. I thank you.

Thank you, Excellency. We now request the charge of affairs of the mission of Kiribati, Madam Josephine Mote, to take the floor. Ma'am.

Thank you, moderator. Your Excellency, Mrs. Sanchita Kumari, Honourable Members of Parliament of India, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, our friends from the South-South Cooperation Office, ladies and gentlemen, greetings from Kiribati. At the outset, allow me to express Kiribati's sincere appreciation to the government and people of India. for convening this important event, as well as the Permanent Mission of India. We are pleased to join you in celebrating the ninth edition of the India UN Development Partnership Fund. KDBestValues, its longstanding partnership with the India UN Fund, which has delivered tangible and meaningful benefits to our communities. Over the years, India's support has contributed to improving livelihoods, strengthening climate resilience, and supporting our response to public health emergencies. Allow me to highlight several key initiatives that have made a real difference for our people. Excellencies, one important area of cooperation has been the project on improving income and livelihoods for communities in the outer highlands through virgin coconut oil production. Following the completion of the first phase in 2020, we are pleased that this partnership is continuing through its second phase, which is currently underway. This initiative is particularly meaningful for our outer highland communities, where income generating opportunities are limited and access to markets remains challenging. By supporting local production and value addition to one of our most important natural resources, the project offers opportunities to strengthen household incomes, promote economic participation and improve community livelihoods. Kiti Basa has also benefited from the Climate Early Warning Systems in Pacific Island Countries project, completed in 2021. For our island communities, strengthening early warning capabilities is critical to improving preparedness and resilience against climate-related risks. We also acknowledge with appreciation the COVID-19 Response Assistance Project completed in September 2022, which provided valuable support during a period when the pandemic placed significant pressure on the limited capacities and resources of small island developing states. Together, these initiatives demonstrate how South-South cooperation can translate into practical support that responds directly to national priorities and the needs of our people. Excellencies, looking ahead, KIDIBEST warmly acknowledges India's continued commitment to supporting new and ongoing initiatives. These include the provision of six dialysis containers, which will greatly enhance access to life-saving treatment, a sea ambulance, which will improve emergency medical transport across our Highlands, and a desalination plant, which will strengthen water security for our communities. We also welcome India's interest in exploring opportunities to strengthen technical and vocational education and training at the Kiribati Institute of Technology. Enabling our students to pursue further technical and vocational training in India represents an exciting avenue for skills development, capacity building, and long-term human resource growth. What Kiribati particularly values about the India-UN Development Partnership Fund is its emphasis on country-led priorities and practical community-focused solutions. Excellencies, the India-UN Fund embodies the principles of solidarity, partnership, and mutual respect that lie at the heart of South-South cooperation. For Kidibest, this partnership is not only about projects, it is about people, communities and shared aspirations for a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable future. On behalf of the government and people of Kiribati, I express our sincere gratitude to the government of India for its continued friendship and support, for their generosity and continued commitment to South-South cooperation. We look forward to strengthening this partnership and working together to deliver lasting development outcomes for our people. Thank you.

We thank the Charg d'Affaires of Kiribati for her intervention. Thank you, ma'am. We now request the Deputy Permanent Representative of Venezuela, Ambassador Christiane Engelbeck, to make an intervention. Ma'am, the floor is yours.

Thank you. Thank you very much. Your Excellency, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of India to the United Nations, Honorable Members of the Parliamentary Delegation of India, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is a great honor to take the floor on this ninth annual event on the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. At the outset, allow me, on behalf of Ambassador Coromoto Godoy and of the government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, to convey our sincere appreciation to the government, the parliament, and the people of India, as well as the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation and the United Nations Development Programme for their steadfast commitment to this initiative and for the partnership that has been through concrete action. The fund represents the very best of South-South cooperation, countries that treat each other as equals, that listen before they act, and that invest where it matters the most, in the people. It is cooperation by the South, for the South, designated for those who need it most. In Venezuela, that investment has a name, the Simon Bolivar Musical Foundation, our beloved system of youth and children's orchestras and course. For more than half a century, El Sistema has placed instruments in the hands of children and young people from every corner of our country, many from our most humble communities. that taught them something that goes beyond music, discipline, teamwork, self-confidence, and hope. It is one of the most beautiful expressions of the Venezuelan soul, and we may say with pride, a reference for the world. With the fund's support, El Sistema and UNDP are now advancing in the fourth phase of this partnership, More than 1,000 young members of the Simon Bolivar National Corps and Orchestra learned from six great international masters. Our luthiers, the craftspeople who bring every instrument to life, learned new techniques and received the tools of their craft. And today, music education spaces are being restored in communities such as Caricuao in Caracas, the cities of Guarenas and Guatire, and the town of San Jose de Barlovento in Miranda State, and Todasana on the coast of La Guaira. Excellencies, on 24th June, two earthquakes struck Caracas and its surroundings, and with them, the house the hearts of thousands of families. The places where our children rehearse are not only buildings, they are places of gathering, of comfort, and of hope. We are deeply grateful that the Fund responded with sensitivity and allowed the time needed to inspect every structure. When those are open again very, very soon, our children will play in safe spaces. And for any Venezuelan mother or father, this is priceless. In Venezuela, we also share what we receive. In Caracas, El Sistema trained orchestral and choral conductors from 14 countries, including India itself, who are now passing that knowledge onto more than 1,400 musicians across five continents. Excellencies, at El Sistema, we believe that a child who plays in an orchestra is never alone. That is why today, we do not give thanks not only on behalf of Venezuela, We do it so on behalf of every girl holding a violin for the first time, every young person who found a second family in a corps, and every mother who watches her child step onto a stage. Thanks to India, we are not alone either. May their music keep resounding ever stronger. Thank you very much.

We thank the DPR of Venezuela for detailing about the project El Sistema in her country. Thank you, ma'am. We now request the DPR of Senegal. Excellency, the floor is yours, please.

Excellencies, Ambassadors, Permanent Representative and Deputy Permanent Representative of India, honorable members of the parliamentary delegation of India, ladies and gentlemen, at the outset, I would like to warmly thank the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations for the kind invitation. I also commend the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation for organizing this annual meeting on the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. This fund is of crucial importance precisely because of its core objective, which is to support sustainable development projects in partner countries. with particular attention to the least developed countries. And I must say the commitments of the fund is really measurable with concrete actions and tangible results. The fund is undoubtedly a successful model of South-South cooperation and should, in that case, serve as a true source to further explore our partnership potential. Since its creation in 2017, The fund has provided significant support across a wide range of sustainable development goals in key sectors such as national and child health education with a particular focus on the inclusion of children with disabilities. Other projects also focus on key sectors such as climate resilience, employment, and the modernization of public sectors. Excellency, ladies and gentlemen, Senegal truly appreciates being a beneficiary of the fund's support for the demining project for development in Cazamas region, situated in the southern part of Senegal. I would like to take this opportunity to warmly thank India, UNDP, and all the stakeholders involved in this crucial project, which aims to achieve the following objectives. First, demining with the clearing of approximately 69,000 square kilometers of land suspected of being contaminated in Kozhmar in nearly 30 localities. Land development through the implementation of 30 community-based land management plans for the reclaimed land. And last but not the least, technical and financial support for 200 direct beneficiaries, including mine victims, as well as the enrollments in the National Universal Health Coverage Scheme. Since its official launch on May 2025, important milestones have been reached, including the scoping, operationalization, and groundwork phases, encompassing the finalization of social, environmental, and gender baseline study, as well as village consultations. The next phases, which are the focus of attention, of all stakeholders include contracting, deployment, effective demining according to validated quality standards, land restitution and development in 30 localities, socioeconomic recovery, and the documentation of best practices. Excellency, ladies and gentlemen, with the help of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, the Demining for Development project in Kazzamas, which also fights against cluster munition remnants, while at the same time providing a yearly report on mine clearing since 2016, aligns perfectly well with the development objectives pursued by the state of Senegal in that region. The objective are centered on the JOMAI plan for Cazamas, which was officially launched on October 8, 2024. With the support of the National Agency for the Revival of Economic Social Activities in Cazamas, or so-called in Sacramine, ANRAC, and the Emergency Program for the Modernization of Border Areas and Territories, also called PUMA. The Jomai Plan for Kazamas aims to facilitate the return of displaced populations, secure and clear landmines, economically empower communities, and the isolation of remote areas and resource of public services. In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, with the tremendous support of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, The Senegalese government, through the Senegalese National Mine Action Center, although called CNAMS, is ensuring the complete security of individuals and their property while establishing at the same time conditions that are conducive to socioeconomic development in the region of Casamance. This is a top priority of the highest Senegalese authorities. We look forward to the continued support of all stakeholders to ensure its realization for the benefit of the affected population. I thank you.

Thank you so much, Mr. Ambassador, for the detailed account of the project being held in Casamance area. Ladies and gentlemen, we now have the unveiling of the 2026 India-UN Development Partnership Fund Year in Review report. The publication is placed on the desk. We now request all the guests at the head table to release the publication by untying the ribbon.

No, no, you have one.

Give one book.

The book is coming.

You can show the book for the photograph. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. We now request the Pan American Health Organization, represented by its director, Dr. Jarbas Barbosa da Silva Junior to make an intervention.

Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Moderator. Good morning, Your Excellency, Ambassador Harish, Honorable Sangeeta Kumari, and members of Parliament, Director Al-Khatib, distinguished delegates, colleagues, and friends. I want to thank our partners from India, not only for their support, but for trusting countries to set their own priorities and the Pan American Health Organization to help deliver on them. Here is what the trust makes possible. In Paraguay's Chaco region, distances are vast, communities are dispersed, and mothers come from 13 indigenous peoples. With the fund's support, four primary care networks were reorganized, 35 health facilities equipped, and 10 delivery rooms adapted to provide safer, culturally respectful births. Health teams reached the 93 indigenous communities, delivering more than 1,700 patient visits. But the impact is best captured in the words of Leticia, a Nivacl mother, and I'm quoting her. "They understood our culture and a mother's heart." In Belize, the Fund helped their small health system hold the line during the pandemic and come out stronger. Medical equipment went to nine hospitals, along with medical waste incinerators for a new health center in Caye Caulker. Bought for a crisis, the equipment is in daily use today. In Trinidad and Tobago, the Fund took us in a different direction, innovation. Eight mobile health robots, two for disinfecting care settings, Six to support the health workers with patient interaction and monitoring were delivered to the Ministry of Health and are now part of the country's public health infrastructure, alongside a telemedicine system that brings care to people far from clinic. Tools built for an emergency are now strengthening everyday care. In the Caribbean, countries are working together to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. More than 600 health professionals have been trained, and laboratories strengthened. The Bahamas is now adapting lessons from Belize, showing how South-South cooperation turns shared experience into better care. These examples demonstrate how the Fund supports locally driven solutions, strengthens health systems, and enables countries to learn from one another and build on shared experience. At a time when developing resources are under pressure, such investments matter more than ever. Their value lies not only in the immediate results they deliver, but also in the local capacity they build to sustain progress. The Pan American Health Organization is proud to be an implementing partner of this fund. Together with India and the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation, we will continue working toward a future where geography income and circumstance no longer determine where their mother and her child receive the care they deserve. Thank you very much.

Thank you so much, Mr. Director. We now request the Director of UN Office for South-South Cooperation, Ms. Dima Al-Khatib, who provides the fund secretariat and also functions as the fund manager. Ma'am, the floor is yours, please.

Thank you, Srinivas. Excellencies, honorable Mrs. Sanjita Kumari Sindhu, honorable members of the parliament, Excellency Mr. Parvathini Harish, Permanent Representative of India, Excellencies and dear colleagues, today we've heard about the immense impact of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund in the countries and communities it serves. Their experiences is a strong testament of the value of South-South cooperation, especially in a world weathering multiple crises and dwindling resources. I thank the people and the government of India for their continued support and for the trust they place in the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation. I also thank our partner governments and the United Nations implementing partners whose commitment turned the support into results for communities. Honourable members of the Parliament, the impact we have heard about today reflects India's commitment to its partners across the Global South. Your leadership and engagement help sustain that commitment, and we look forward to your continued support as we build on these achievements. Excellencies, UNOSSC proudly manages the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, as well as other funds like IPSA, where India is a key contributor and partner. Our responsibility is to turn that trust into effective support, managing resources efficiently, bringing partners together, and helping knowledge move across borders. UNOSSC is on a constant mission to share the fund's results and outcomes through our knowledge platforms and publications, helping others learn from its impact on the ground. The Fund's achievements inform our high-level messaging, whether it is our reporting as a secretariat to the General Assembly High-Level Committee on South-South Cooperation, where the work of the Fund is also incorporated into our contributions to the Secretary-General reports on South-South cooperation and other themes, and our support to the General Assembly Second Committee. Through these channels, we are connecting country-level results into global policy discussions. Excellencies, looking ahead, we see multiple opportunities to further connect more countries with India's experience, for example, in artificial intelligence and digital innovation, building on the momentum generated during this year's Global India AI Impact Summit. Through our Global Alliance on South-South and Triangle Cooperation and our South-South Galaxy+ platform, we're helping to take this learning further, documenting what has worked, expanding partnerships, connecting the institutions behind these results with the countries seeking similar solutions, and supporting exchanges to adapt them. UNOSSC stands ready to work with India and all our partners to deepen this exchange so that an investment in one country can become a source progress for many. I thank you.

We thank Ms. Al-Hatib for her intervention. We now request the delegate from Morocco to make his intervention, please.

Excellencies, honourable members of Parliament, ladies and gentlemen, Morocco delegation is pleased to join this ninth annual event of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund. We also warmly welcome the distinguished parliamentary delegation from India, whose presence today testifies to the depth of India's commitment to the Global South. Morocco has the honor to serve as the presidency of the 22nd session of the High-Level Committee of the General Assembly on South-South Cooperation. This presidency enshrines the commitment of the Kingdom of Morocco to South-South cooperation and reinforces our joint action to advancing partnership grounded in solidarity, mutual respect and national ownership, and to promoting the exchange of knowledge and development solutions across the Global South. The India-UN Fund embodies these principles. We commend India's vision and generosity, as well as the UN Office of South-South Cooperation for its dedicated stewardship of this demand-driven initiative. Nearly a decade after its launch in 2017, the fund's record speaks for itself. 95 projects in 65 countries implemented by 14 UN entities, improving the lives of the most vulnerable communities across the global south, with a particular focus on SIDS, LDCs, and LLDCs. For Morocco, south-south and triangular cooperation are essential instruments for complementing north-south cooperation in building capacities, and advancing the sustainable development goals. In the spirit of the excellent relations between the Kingdom of Morocco and India, we reaffirm our commitment to deepening this partnership. We welcome today's launch of the 2026 Year in Review report, which we trust will showcase the fund's achievements and encourage the scaling up of successful projects across the Global South. Finally, we look forward to the fund continuing to grow catalyze sustainable development and inspire us all. Thank you very much.

We thank the delegate from Morocco. We now come to the last segment, a word of thanks. Ladies and gentlemen, we acknowledge the presence of the permanent representatives from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Honduras. As Desk Officer dealing with the India-UN Development Partnership Fund at the Department of India, it is my honor to give this word of thanks. We gratefully acknowledge the contributions and the presence of the honorable parliamentarians led by for gracing the event. We thank the distinguished permanent representatives, deputy permanent representatives for their kind interventions. We thank the board of directors of the fund, namely DPR Ambassador Yojana Patel, ma'am, Director General in the UNES Division of the Ministry of External Affairs, His Excellency Dr. Akuna Vimal, Department Representative of St. Lucia, Ambassador Manisha Rambali, Deputy High Commissioner of India in London, Ambassador Karthik Pandey, and Director of UNOSSC, Ms. Dima Al-Hateeb, for their guidance. Thank you. We further thank the UN Office for South-South Cooperation for providing secretariat and functioning as the fund manager, whose support in the day-to-day functioning is gratefully acknowledged. We thank the UN agencies for their support in implementation of the projects. We also thank the DG ACM and the Department of Global Communications for hosting this event. Last but certainly not the least, we acknowledge and thank the media teams of PMI and UNSSC, Messrs. Aswini, Sanskriti, Saeed, Mithra and Bhushan, for putting together the print and visual branding efforts which received wide applause. Thank you so much. This marks the end of the program. Namaste.