Government of Iceland contributes 150 million ISK to UNICEF

Meeting of the Executive Board of The United Nations Children´s Fund

The United Nations,

New York 5 February 2009

Statement by the Permanent Representative of Iceland

Dr. Gunnar Pálsson

Mr. President, Madam Executive Director, distinguished colleagues,

Allow me to congratulate H. E. Mr. Oumar Daou on his election as President of the Board. I also wish to thank the outgoing President, H. E. Mr. Anders Lidén, for the good job he has done over the past year.

My Government continues to value its partnership with UNICEF. The fund´s input to humanitarian action and development has been second to none. It plays a unique role in protecting the youngest and most vulnerable members of our world population. More broadly, the fund contributes substantially to the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals. We all know that the future of millions of children, especially in developing countries, now depends on whether those goals will be met.

Mr. President,

At a time when so many countries – and here my own country is no exception – are struggling with the consequences of the global financial crisis, it is extremely important to remember those who are most disadvantaged and may suffer the most. In particular, we must continue to address the acute problems that children are confronted with and build a better and a more just future for them.

I am pleased to inform you, Mr. President, that my Government has decided to contribute approximately 150 million Icelandic kronur to UNICEF in the year 2009.