Port Vila, Vanuatu – The United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Pacific Office in Fiji Resident Representative, Ms. Munkhtuya (Tuya) Altangerel, formally presented her letter of credentials to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Vanuatu, the Hon. Seremaiah Nawalu in Port Vila on Monday 16 January 2024.

During the occasion, Ms. Altangerel acknowledged the long-standing relationship between the Government of Vanuatu and UNDP. She reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting the Government of Vanuatu’s strategic vision as laid out in Vanuatu 2030, and the National Sustainable Development Plan.

UNDP Pacific will continue to support the Government of Vanuatu and its people in achieving the country's vision of a stable, sustainable, and prosperous nation, with the Resident Representative and Deputy Prime Minister discussing strategies to accelerate the realization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Ms. Altangerel also paid a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister of Vanuatu, Hon. Charlot Salwai, where she elaborated on UNDP’s priority areas of Peace, Planet, and Prosperity. The discussion focused on maintaining and safeguarding political stability and integrity, as well as helping the country to build greater resilience in the face of climate change induced disasters.

UNDP's commitment to Vanuatu sees a significant allocation of US$30-35 million for the 2023-2027 Multi Country Programme Document (MCPD) period. This commitment underscores UNDP's dedication to fostering partnerships and sustainable development in Vanuatu, working at the cross-section of climate and energy, governance, and inclusive social and economic development.

In 2023 UNDP supported the Government of Vanuatu in enabling 95 percent of the eligible population to obtain a new national ID card, a move not only facilitating voting rights but one that fosters good governance through the digitization of public service delivery. In addition, UNDP continues to stand in partnership with Vanuatu in working toward achieving the country’s National Energy Roadmap targets and the view to seeing of 100% renewable energy being in place by 2030.

Ms. Altangerel reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment, stating:

"Investing in local communities and local governance systems is key to achieving resilience. UNDP stands firm to continue serving as a steadfast partner of the government and the people of Vanuatu in its journey towards sustainable development, accountable governance and institutions, and inclusive blue and green economic growth.”

For more information please contact:

Nick Turner | Communications and Advocacy Specialist | nicholas.turner@undp.org