Solhjell is a candidate to lead the United Nations Development Program (UNDP)

"Solhjell has led the effort to reform Norad and Norwegian aid, and is therefore highly qualified to lead UNDP," says Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust.

• Read the story: Norwegian candidate nominated as Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) - regjeringen.no

For several decades, UNDP has been one of Norway's most important partners in development aid. Norway is one of the largest contributors to the organization, and the government aims to have more Norwegians in key positions within the UN system. 

"The partnership remains strong, and UNDP needs a leader who can contribute to both transformation and global leadership in sustainable development," says  Aukrust.

Solhjell is scheduled to start as CEO of Renewable Norway in June. 

"I am highly motivated to lead Renewable Norway. Developing more renewable energy is crucial both for solving the climate crisis and developing Norwegian industry and business. But when the government pointed to me as a candidate for the UN job, it was hard to say no. The world is facing deep challenges and the UN needs reform," says Solhjell. 

"If the UN Secretary-General chooses another candidate to lead UNDP, I will remain fully committed and enthusiastic about my role at Renewable Norway," concludes Solhjell.