The Minister of Local Administration discusses this year’s economic and development plan with UN and European officials.

A significant meeting took place today in Aden, the temporary capital of Yemen, led by Minister of Local Administration Hussein Al-Aghbari. The session included members of the Institutional and Economic Resilience Enhancement Project (SERI), which operates under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The primary focus was to outline the comprehensive development and economic programs planned for 2025.

Review of Past Performance Reports

During the meeting, attendees reviewed performance reports from previous years related to the EU-funded project, which the Ministry of Local Administration oversees. Key participants included Governor of Lahij Ahmed Turki, representatives from the provinces of Aden, Lahij, Taiz, Hadramout, and Marib, as well as various ministry leaders and representatives from the United Nations and the European Union.

Emphasis on Strategic Planning

The meeting underscored the urgent need to intensify efforts and develop strategic plans for funding the country’s development and economic projects. Additionally, the discussions highlighted the importance of supporting programs aimed at empowering women and youth.

Importance of Project Evaluation

Minister Al-Aghbari stressed the necessity of evaluating the projects and programs implemented at the targeted administrative units. He called for expanding the scope of these units in the upcoming period, aligning with the government’s overall direction and strategic development plans for local provinces and districts.

Acknowledgment of International Support

Al-Aghbari praised the efforts of international and regional organizations supporting Yemen. He emphasized that the United Nations and the European Union serve as partners with the government in development work. This partnership requires collective support to assess plans based on financial efficiency and effectiveness in achieving objectives. He also highlighted the importance of utilizing allocated budgets for project implementation to build trust with local community partners.

Support from UNDP and EU Representatives

Representatives from the UNDP and the European Union, including UNDP Resident Representative Zeina Ali and EU Mission Head Gabriel Vinals, presented their plans and programs. They coordinated with relevant stakeholders and local partners to implement development projects in targeted administrative units. Both representatives expressed their commitment to supporting the Yemeni government in local development and economic initiatives. They also acknowledged the crucial role of the Ministry of Local Administration in coordinating, collaborating, and planning for the successful execution of these projects.

This meeting marks a pivotal step in advancing Yemen’s development agenda, ensuring that strategic plans align with the needs of local communities while fostering international collaboration.

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