The first meeting of UNDP Strategic Advisory Council

On 29 January 2010 – The first meeting of UNDP Strategic Advisory Council chaired by the Ministry of Economy and Budget Planning took place in Astana.

The Council comprised of representatives of ministry of foreign affairs and UNDP chaired by the Ministry of Economy and Budget Planning is established in line with the Memorandum of Understanding (2010-2014) on cooperation in the new stage of national development signed by UNDP Kazakhstan and Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan on 25 November 2009.

During the meeting the members of the Council were presented UNDP Country Programme Action Plan for 2010-2015, performance outcomes of projects funded from the state resources in 2009 and discussed possible improvements for further cooperation.

The Country Programme Action Plan for 2010-2015 is aimed at the assistance to Kazakhstan in implementation of the national strategies and plans on competitiveness development with a focus on  human development for the well being of the people of Kazakhstan, stressed Ms. Steliana Nedera, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, paying particular attention to three programme components: Inclusive development for all, Environmental Sustainability and Effective Governance.

UNDP highlighted the lessons learnt on co-financing from the republican budget of the two projects in 2009. The necessity to develop the schedule of grants transfer from the republican budget for timely money receipt by the projects was emphasized. Another proposal was to make amendments to the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Government Purchases so that UNDP as a trusty partner could participate in the activities related to government purchases. Members of the Strategic Advisory Council found wholesome suggestions liable to thorough consideration for further realization.

In view of the significance of the Council for future cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and UNDP it is agreed that the meetings will be held on a regular basis.