Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 22 May (BelTA) – There are plans to use the full potential of the regional groups on reaching the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Belarus. The statement was made by Marianna Shchetkina, Deputy Chairwoman of the Council of the Republic of Belarus, National Coordinator for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, as she met with UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Belarus Joanna Kazana-Wisniowiecki on 22 May, BelTA has learned.

Marianna Shchetkina remarked that results of implementation of the first programs on reaching the SDGs are impressive. All the plans have been implemented. The national coordinator talked about the main directions of future work, including the intention to make the transition from the national level to the regional one. The enhancement of the regional groups and their potential was mentioned. More attention will be paid to information work targeting young people and children. “We would like to put as much effort as possible into these directions by the end of the year,” she said.

The deputy head of the upper chamber of the Belarusian parliament added that there were plans to create a large national assembly, a national forum on reaching the SDGs where the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly, the Sustainable Development Council, and the partner group, which takes a very active part in this work, will play a prominent role. Events and projects are implemented through joint efforts so that nobody would be left aside.

Marianna Shchetkina pointed out that the Belarusian side expects new ideas and support in reaching the Sustainable Development Goals from the UN/UNDP. In turn, Joanna Kazana-Wisniowiecki mentioned Belarus’ considerable accomplishments in implementing the SDGs. The UN is geared towards detailed cooperation and the accomplishment of specific tasks. The sides discussed plans to advance cooperation in this direction during the meeting.