New UNDP Resident Representative takes office

Jorn Sorensen shaking hands with Foreign Affairs Minister Tilak Marapana

• Sorensen served previously as the UNDP Country Director in Sri Lanka for 4 years
  
   

Jorn Sorensen presented his credentials last week to Foreign Affairs Minister Tilak Marapana, officially taking office as the new Resident Representative for UNDP in Sri Lanka.

Speaking after presenting his credentials, Sorensen stated: “For UNDP, 2019 marks the beginning of a new era as we officially delink from the Resident Coordinator’s Office. This is not a disconnect but it gives UNDP a chance to reposition itself as a strategic partner for sustainable development, with the capabilities to partner at scale and deliver world-class knowledge and technical expertise. At this critical juncture, I am pleased to stay on as the new Resident Representative of UNDP Sri Lanka.”

Committing UNDP’s support to the Government of Sri Lanka, Sorensen also stated: “Governance, climate resilience, gender equality and youth and innovation – these are some of our areas, our strength, and this is where our expertise lies. UNDP is committed to supporting the people of Sri Lanka and to ultimately achieve sustainable human development in line with the 2030 Agenda.” 

Prior to this appointment, Sorensen served as the UNDP Country Director in Sri Lanka for four years. With 24 years of experience within UNDP, he has previously served in countries such as India, Nepal, Iraq, New York, China, DPR Korea and Mongolia – working to promote sustainable human development. 

A national of Denmark, Sorensen has a Master’s Degree in International Development Studies from the University of Copenhagen, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Management and Minority Studies from Copenhagen.

UNDP partners with people at all levels of society to help build nations that can withstand crisis, and drive and sustain the kind of growth that improves the quality of life for everyone. On the ground in 170 countries and territories, it offers global perspective and local insight to help empower lives and build resilient nations.