Mogadishu, Somalia, 11 August 2026 – The newly appointed Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Christophoros Politis, today presented his Letter of Credence to H.E. Abdisalam Abdi Ali, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Government of Somalia.

Receiving the credentials, the Minister congratulated Christophoros Politis on his appointment and reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between the Government of Somalia and UNDP in advancing the country's national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals. 

During the meeting, Politis reiterated UNDP's commitment to supporting the people and Government of Somalia as they pursue a future that is more prosperous, inclusive, resilient and sustainable.

"Somalia stands at a pivotal moment in its development journey. The progress achieved in recent years demonstrates the determination of its people and leadership, and provides a strong foundation for the future. UNDP remains firmly committed to working together with the Government, civil society, the private sector, the UN System and our longstanding development partners to supporting Somalia's vision for transformative development and moving the country towards new heights of resilience, prosperity and opportunity," said Politis.

He underscored the importance of sustaining and accelerating development gains at a time of evolving regional and global uncertainties, while investing in innovative solutions that can unlock new opportunities for future generations.

With more than two decades of international development experience, Politis has held senior leadership positions with UNDP and UN System across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.  Prior to his appointment in Somalia, he served as Deputy Resident Representative for UNDP in Ukraine and Tajikistan, and as Chief Technical Advisor for Governance and Peacebuilding in Ethiopia, Myanmar, Iraq, and Lebanon.