Kyiv, Ukraine, 24 October 2024 – Following his participation in the Ukraine Mine Action Conference in Switzerland, Haoliang Xu, United Nations Under Secretary-General and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Associate Administrator wrapped a three-day visit to Ukraine, holding consultations, and boosting partnerships for Ukraine’s recovery and development even amidst war. 

On his visit, Xu engaged with senior officials and local leaders, concentrating on partnerships crucial for mine action, energy sustainability, strong institutions, inclusive policies, comprehensive rehabilitation and sustainable livelihoods.

The visit also included tours of projects in Kyiv, Lviv and Rivne oblasts for aiding the rehabilitation of people with disabilities and war injuries, livelihood support, debris removal and its sustainable management, public service delivery, and youth support. Xu also visited energy and housing infrastructure sites.

Getting a first-hand look at the support UNDP is giving to Ukraine, Xu acknowledged the Government’s leadership at all levels, the importance of development partner collaboration, and the determination of communities in crisis. 

“During my visit, I’ve witnessed the resilience and determination of the people of Ukraine, and it is truly inspiring,” Xu said. “UNDP remains committed to continuing to support Ukraine, helping to harness innovation, and building strong partnerships not only to rebuild communities but to foster a robust path to sustainable development.”

While in Kyiv, Xu participated in a presentation of the “Soul of Soil” project together with Yulia Svyrydenko, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister of Ukraine. The project highlights the connection between mine contamination in Ukraine, economic recovery, and global food security. 

The event brought together UNDP development partners in the mine action sector from more than 10 embassies, including ambassadors, deputy chiefs of missions, and other senior representatives from Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Japan, Spain, Switzerland, and USAID. Representatives also joined from partner NGOs, and national institutions, including the Economy Ministry of Ukraine, State Emergency Service of Ukraine, and the National Mine Action Authority of Ukraine.    

Xu also met with Ukrainian government officials, including the leadership of Ministry of Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine, President’s Office, Energy Ministry, Foreign Ministry, Kyiv Oblast Administration and Lviv City Council. With them, he discussed a range of topics, including UNDP’s support for crisis response, mine action, social infrastructure rehabilitation, renewable energy and green transition efforts.

While in Borodianka and Hostomel, Xu witnessed the impact of projects to restore public services and housing. In Borodianka, Xu met with Karolina Lindholm-Billing, UNHCR Representative, where they discussed the ongoing UNDP-UNHCR partnership to facilitate safe return, which is focused on the south of Ukraine. They also visited an area in Kyiv Oblast where UNDP and UNHCR joined forces – UNDP cleared debris and explosives, and UNHCR built a temporary modular house so that an older couple could return to their community and start rebuild their lives after their house was destroyed by war. 

Xu also met with Ukrainian civil society representatives to discuss their important work on human rights, access to justice, strategic communications, disinformation and media freedom, anti-corruption, social inclusion, youth and recovery issues. He discussed how UNDP could continue to support them on their mission. 

Xu's visit to Ukraine underscores UNDP’s commitment to fostering innovation and strengthening partnerships and national institutions that are pivotal to the country’s recovery and sustainable development. This visit not only highlighted UNDP’s dedication to restoring communities in Ukraine, but also showcased the collaborative efforts required to drive economic resilience, enhance public services, and promote a green transition, ultimately paving the way for a future of peace and prosperity in the war-torn country.
Background:

With over 30 years of experience and a strong presence in Ukraine, UNDP integrates humanitarian and development goals to aid in recovery and reconstruction. Collaborating closely with state and local partners, UNDP focuses on inclusive, equitable, and sustainable approaches, facilitating essential services and promoting comprehensive rehabilitation.

Media enquires:

Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications, Kyiv, yuliia.samus@undp.org