UNCT, NPC review LDC graduation

 Kathmandu, Sept. 5

The Government of Nepal and the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) conducted the annual meeting of the Joint Steering Committee of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2023–2027 in Kathmandu on Thursday.

The high-level meeting was co-chaired by Vice-Chair of the National Planning Commission (NPC) Prof. Dr. Shiva Raj Adhikari, and United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nepal Hanaa Singer Hamdy. The discussions focused on reviewing progress made in 2024 and aligning future actions as Nepal approaches its historic graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, read a statement issued by the UN in Nepal.

Reflecting on the achievements of the past year, the meeting highlighted significant results across multiple sectors, including health, education, livelihoods, governance, and climate resilience.

A nationwide measles-rubella immunisation campaign reached 6.3 million children, enabling the elimination of rubella in Nepal. Further progress was reported in expanding access to essential services such as healthcare, safe water, education, and protection, particularly in disaster-affected and vulnerable communities.

Participants acknowledged the critical role of the UNSDCF in supporting the Government’s Smooth Transition Strategy, while accelerating progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Cooperation Framework also supported inclusive economic growth, created livelihood opportunities, and reinforced social protection systems. Stronger community resilience, ambitious climate action, and civic participation were identified as key drivers advancing Nepal’s irreversible graduation from LDC status and sustained SDG acceleration.

"As Nepal prepares for its graduation from LDC status, our Cooperation Framework serves as the roadmap to make that graduation irreversible, resilient, and inclusive. The United Nations remains a steadfast partner to Nepal in accelerating the SDGs and ensuring a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous,” said Hamdy.

Dr. Adhikari stressed the need for stronger data systems, enhanced institutional capacity through technical assistance, and reinforced multi-agency collaboration.
"Joint collaboration is vital in harnessing synergies for our shared goals. This requires a holistic and interconnected approach with a strong focus on inclusivity, capacity-building, evidence-based planning, and accountability," he said.

The Joint Steering Committee reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cooperation between Nepal and the United Nations, ensuring the effective implementation of the UNSDCF and delivering tangible benefits to the people.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 6 September 2025.