Prime Minister Sherif Ismail met here Wednesday with visiting Head of the UN development program (UNDP) Helen Clark.

During a meeting attended by the social solidarity and foreign ministers, Ismail underlined the importance of the partnership between Egypt and the UNDP in light of its tangible efforts in improving the living conditions of Egyptians, especially in deprived and marginalized areas.

Speaking about the 2030 sustainable development plan, the premier stated that it complies with the UN sustainable development goals, adding that Egypt is looking forward to capitalize on the technical expertise of the UNDP.

Meanwhile, Ismail congratulated Clark on announcing her candidacy to the UN presidency, citing her unique political, economic and cultural background.

Earlier this week, Clark, the former prime minister of New Zealand, entered the race to succeed Ban Ki-moon as secretary general of the United Nations in a bid to become the first woman in the role of world’s top diplomat. 

For her part, Clark praised Egypt for hosting the ministerial conference on the 2030 sustainable development goals in Arab states, underscoring the importance of its agenda, topped by pro-women and child issues and the needs of the physically challenged people.

She reaffirmed the UNDP's support for youth projects, boosting civil society role as well as encouraging the private sector.

She further asserted the UN agency's readiness to offer support for the Egyptian government with a view to undertaking its development programs.

Today's meeting also took up an exchange of views on the latest developments in the neighboring countries along with UN assistance offered to Arab refugees in Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon. 

Source : MENA