Vienna, 15 April 2024 – The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Permanent Mission of Japan to the International Organizations in Vienna launched three new projects funded by Japan at a kick-off ceremony held at the Vienna International Centre.

UNIDO Director General Gerd Müller and Ambassador Atsushi Kaifu, the Permanent Representative of Japan to the International Organizations in Vienna, were joined by representatives from the partner countries Cameroon, the State of Palestine, and Ukraine to highlight the commitment to tripartite cooperation to address issues faced by communities in need.

Since the establishment of UNIDO, Japan has played a crucial role as a key supporter of the Organization and largest governmental funding partner over the period 2019 to 2023, with voluntary contributions of $66.2 million. The three projects launched at the event, amounting to a total funding volume of $3.3 million, complement further funding generously supported this year by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Director General Müller thanked Japan for being “a very strong supporter of the kind of multilateralism the world needs," praising "the long, close partnership between UNIDO and the Government of Japan and the country’s firm commitment to bringing sustainable development to our partner countries through UNIDO’s expertise, with its tangible impacts around the world."

Ambassador Kaifu stated “Today’s ceremony presents an opportunity for us to renew our commitment to working together for the stability and prosperity of the international community at a time of global hardship and uncertainty. Japan joins hands with UNIDO and each partner Government to achieve the greatest possible outcomes for this purpose.”

A project in Cameroon seeks to bolster the competitiveness and sustainability of Cameroon’s main trade products on the global stage through the integration of advanced technologies, innovation and quality assurance measures across the value chain.

Meanwhile, a project in the State of Palestine aims to contribute to food security and sustainable economic and social development through support and integrated services provided along the agricultural and agro-industrial value chain.

Building upon an earlier initiative supported by the Government of Japan, a project in Ukraine is focusing on enhancing job opportunities for vulnerable populations, in particular people with disabilities, by leveraging 3D printing technology and providing essential capacity-building and vocational training.

These projects, funded by Japan’s grant aid and the supplementary budget, underscore the continued shared commitment on the part of Japan and UNIDO to fostering inclusive and sustainable industrial development and to driving positive change worldwide. Through collaborative efforts and targeted interventions, they aim to empower communities, strengthen economies, and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.