The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
Statement by Grete Faremo to UNOPS Executive Board
Under-Secretary-General Faremo delivers statement at the First Regular Session of the UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS Executive Board in New York.
In honour of UNOPS 25th anniversary this year, the session began with a video message by UN Deputy Secretary-General (DSG) Amina Mohammed.
Congratulating the organization on its growth over the past two and a half decades, DSG Mohammed stated: "From rapid responses so critical to addressing the world’s needs, to bold new partnerships with the private sector to unleash investment and innovation, UNOPS has made a unique contribution towards the 2030 Agenda."
Ms. Faremo’s statement began by acknowledging the work of the thousands of UNOPS personnel around the world, whose work has made the organization’s services “a force for good in this world.”
Mention of UN reform followed, with reference to UNOPS involvement and support in these system-wide initiatives. Noting the organization’s experience and performance, Ms. Faremo said: “UNOPS business model is well placed to support the UN’s reform journey.”
Speaking to UNOPS Sustainable Infrastructure Impact Investments (S3I) initiative, Ms. Faremo highlighted the organization’s landmark affordable housing projects around the world, underlining the importance of harnessing innovative financing models towards the 2030 Agenda.
“Our S3I initiative features prominently in the Secretary-General’s Financing for Development Strategy,” Ms. Faremo underscored.
This led to remarks on UNOPS work in quality infrastructure and the need for integrating gender considerations within implementation to create new opportunities for women and girls. Likewise, the organization’s focus on integrating gender considerations into sustainable procurement operations.
This was Ms. Faremo’s first official statement of 2020 to new members of the Executive Board, including incoming President, His Excellency Ambassador Walton Webson of Antigua and Barbuda.
