News - USA, New York, Permanent Representation of the Republic of Bulgaria to the UN

Ambassador Gergana Karadjova met with the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Alexander De Croo.

The meeting focused on the role of UNDP as a key partner in advancing sustainable development, the challenges facing international development cooperation amid declining development financing, and the need for effective and sustainable solutions in support of partner countries.

Ambassador Karadjova reaffirmed Bulgaria’s consistent support for a strong, effective and country-focused UNDP, emphasizing that sustainable development is a long-term investment in stability, security, trust and prosperity.

The discussion also covered emerging approaches to development financing, including the “Trade over Aid” initiative, as well as issues related to the reform of the UN development system and the proposed merger between UNDP and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). Ambassador Karadjova underscored the importance of a transparent, independent and evidence-based process in considering any future institutional reforms.

The two sides also exchanged views on the upcoming High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) and opportunities to continue their dialogue during the High-level Week of the UN General Assembly in September.