UN Deputy Secretary-General Highlights Return to Khartoum as Key to Strengthening Institutional and Community Capacities

Khartoum, April 2, 2026 (SUNA) – the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Associate Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Xu Haoliang, affirmed that the resumption of UN operations from their offices in Khartoum represents a significant step in supporting Sudan at this critical stage. He emphasized the Programme’s commitment to humanitarian and development assistance, as well as to building the capacities of institutions and communities across the country. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the UN House and the reopening of the UNDP office in Khartoum, Haoliang stressed that the Programme’s mission extends beyond supporting ongoing humanitarian operations. It also aims to enhance the resilience of state institutions, communities, and individuals, enabling them to respond effectively to current challenges and prepare for recovery and reconstruction phases. He explained that the renewed presence of UN leadership in Khartoum is intended to strengthen proximity to government partners and local communities, thereby enhancing partnerships and improving coordination in efforts to promote stability and development.Zhou highlighted that Sudan’s future depends on the strength of its institutions and communities, reaffirming the UN’s commitment to continue working with its partners to support citizens in returning to normal life and to expand opportunities for recovery throughout the country.Concluding his remarks, he expressed appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the occasion, expressing hope that joint efforts over the coming months and years will yield tangible progress for the benefit of the Sudanese people.BH/BH