Press releases

During the journey from Vitebsk to Minsk participants of the UN initiative will focus on the achievement of 17 Global Goals – partnership for the sake of sustainable development. They will hold discussions, a presentation of the results of the thematic youth contest and other events.

Upon the arrival at the Minsk railway station, UN representatives and Minsk Oblast authorities will sign the Declaration of Commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals. An exhibition featuring the work of the UN will be held too.

Within a week over 150 UN workers, representatives of the Belarusian government, civil society, private sector, religious communities, diplomats and other people visited oblast capitals and took part in many events.

“Every city highlighted certain sustainable development goals. Although there are 17 goals and only six cities, they were united to tell about inclusive development, speak about healthy lifestyles, demonstrate energy efficient technologies, show how the green economy is being built in Belarus,” UNDP Deputy Permanent Representative in Belarus Yekaterina Paniklova said in an interview with the United Nations Radio. She also said that during the journey its participants had informal talks and generated new ideas.

The UN initiative UN70 Belarus Express for Sustainable Development Goals was made possible thanks to the partnership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UN organizations in Belarus. The train was provided by Belarusian Railways. It consists of ten cars which have been turned into discussion platforms. The express train is marked by a UN symbol “Strong UN. Better World.” On board the train there were thematic seminars, master classes, discussions, film sessions and forums.

Seventeen sustainable development goals include the eradication of poverty and starvation, promotion of good heath and wellbeing, higher education quality, gender equality, access to clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, development of industry, innovation and infrastructure, reduction of inequalities, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, preservation of maritime ecosystems and life on land, enhancement of peace, justice and strong institutions, partnership for the goals.