Sweden recently assumed the Chairmanship of the Peace Building Commission country specific configuration on Burundi. The PBC Strategic Framework for Burundi highlights the importance of coordination with relevant United Nations governing bodies. We therefore welcome this opportunity to interact with this Board on the item regarding the country program for Burundi.
We welcome the efforts made to align and harmonize the country programmes and the United Nations Development Assistance Framework with relevant existing national plans. In this regard, we would like to draw particular attention to the peacebuilding priorities as reflected in the PBC Strategic Framework.
The support provided by the UN Funds and Programmes in Burundi is of great importance to the peacebuilding efforts. The country program review process over the next year will offer an opportunity to identify how the UN can contribute in a strategic, coherent and effective manner. We welcome innovative joint programming efforts among UN agencies, as recently demonstrated in the context of the programmes funded by the Peace Building Fund.
The structure of the United Nations Integrated Office in Burundi has contributed to coordinate activities with increased effectiveness. We would encourage UN Funds and Programmes to continue to be actively involved in the country-level arrangements for peacebuilding, including to support the follow-up of the recommendations made by the PBC .
As Chair of the country specific configuration for Burundi and as a member of the PBC, we look forward to continue to interact with this board on issues of common concern.
I thank you.