Myasnikovich invites UNDP to cooperate in energy efficiency, PPP

The UNDP and the Belarusian Parliament may cooperate in five areas, among which are public-private partnership (PPP), energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, Chairman of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus Mikhail Myasnikovich said as he met with UN/UNDP Resident Representative in Belarus Sanaka Samarasinha, BelTA has learned.

"We will have a serious discussion of the joint proposals to promote the cooperation between the UNDP and Parliament," said Mikhail Myasnikovich. Among the five important areas he also highlighted the issues of compliance of the national legislation with the approaches and commitments proposed in the new draft UNDP country program. "In this situation the UN experience in development support, including to parliamentary activities, will be very useful for us. This is very important," added the President of the Council of the Republic.

"I think that the current program will be completed successfully in 2015. I would like to welcome the development of the new program. According to the information I have, the finalization of the program is almost over, except for certain nuances, "said the speaker.

Speaking of PPP, Mikhail Myasnikovich explained: "These issues are now being considered by Parliament. I think that the work on the draft bill in some contact with you might be useful. This also applies to the institutional reforms, strategic planning, regulatory framework, and many other issues."

Another important area of cooperation with the UNDP, Mikhail Myasnikovich believes, is healthcare. Belarus has serious and very positive results in this regard, but the work should not be terminated, and the appropriate legislative support is needed. In addition, Mikhail Myasnikovich also suggested cooperating in the rights of women and children.