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In the Cook Islands, sustainable development is about preserving a way of life, the unity of families and communities; and ensuring a safe and prosperous future. Earlier in February this year, the United Nations (UN), led by UN  Resident Coordinator Themba Kalua, travelled to the Cook Islands to convene a dialogue on sustainable development, most importantly to listen and truly understand where UN support is most needed. Joined by the Director of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Office in the Pacific, Mr Martin Wandera, the Chief of Mission for the International Office for Migration in the Pacifi,c Mr Solomon Kantha, the Resident Representative of the UNDP, Ms Aliona Niculita, with representatives from the FAO Ms Demelza Wilkes, Ms Sara Sua of the UNFPA and Mele Mauala of UN Women, the mission was a reaffirmation of partnership, a commitment to ensuring that the UN’s work is guided by the voices and needs of the Cook Islands people. At the centre of the dialogue was the Country Implementation Plan (CIP), a strategic framework that directs UN interventions across key areas such as climate resilience, economic growth, social development, and governance. With 14 UN agencies actively engaged in the Cook Islands, the consultation aimed to refine and strengthen this roadmap, ensuring that every initiative is targeted, resourced, locally driven and will yield transformative results.On the day of the dialogue, the Hon. Tinga Elekana, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, set the tone by emphasizing that success is not in the words of the CIP, but the actions that we take throughout its implementation timeframe.  The Cook Islands faces a unique set of challenges, from the increasing threats of climate change to economic vulnerabilities linked to its small size and geographic isolation. Yet, it is a nation with a strong vision for its future, one that prioritizes sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of its people. For the UN, supporting this vision requires more than just resources; it demands collaboration, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the local context.Under Themba Kalua’s leadership, the UN has taken a proactive approach, ensuring that its presence in the Cook Islands is meaningful and responsive. “Our joint efforts are crucial to accelerating progress toward the SDGs, and we remain committed to working closely with national stakeholders to ensure that no one is left behind,” Kalua stated.  By April this year, the UN aims to finalize an even stronger, more targeted CIP,  one that reflects the priorities of the Cook Islands and ensures that development efforts leave a lasting impact.Guided by the people of the Cook Islands, the UN is set to deepen its commitment, walking alongside the nation in its pursuit of a sustainable and prosperous future.