Kosovo Government and UNDP signed the first agreement

During the conference, Minister Çitaku said: “I am very happy that today we signed the first agreement between the Government of Kosovo and UNDP. The agreement represents a substantial step towards our relationships in the future and the partnership that we had so far. During the recent years, UNDP has supported many important processes in Kosovo, such as human capital investments, in environment, in creating new job positions, in public administration reform etc. The total value of implemented assistance from UNDP since 1999 exceeds the amount of 200 million dollars. Jointly with UNDP, we have agreed that our priorities are: (1) democratic governance, (2) comprehensive economic development and growth, and (3) environmental sustainability. During the period 2011-2015, the financial package of UNDP reaches the amount of approximately 52 million dollars. By the end of this year, about 30 million dollars are spent. In this regard, allow me to emphasize that the valuable assistance provided by UNDP has a great importance for the Government, therefore, we express our readiness to provide full partnership for upcoming years.”

On the other hand, Mr. Russell said: “This agreement with MEI is important because it represents a new era in relations between UNDP and Kosovo’s institutions. A lot has been changed in the last decade and we the international community must admit that our role and mission should be changed and needs to be more supportive. The future of Kosovo should be lead by the Kosovars. UNDP is engaged primarily to empower the Kosovars to take over the leadership of the development process. Practically, this means that UNDP is committed to strengthen the national capacities in order to coordinate the assistance of international donors. There is no doubt about the vision – our vision is clear and common – peace and prosperity for the future within the EU family, of a development that excludes no one, that creates opportunity and hope for all the Kosovars, regardless of their origin.