New York: Speakers from around the world today emphasized that integrating landlocked developing countries into the global economy will benefit everyone, as the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries held its second round-table discussion on the theme Seizing the transformative potential of trade, trade facilitation and regional integration for landlocked developing countries.
According to EMM, Co-Chair K.P. Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal, opened the discussion by highlighting the challenges faced by landlocked developing countries, which account for just over 1 percent of global trade in goods. These challenges include lack of direct access to the sea, high transit costs, poor infrastructure, long transit routes, and limited market access. He stressed that ensuring these countries' trade and transit rights is a moral responsibility and that they must not be left behind in the global trading system.
His fellow Co-Chair, Muhammad B.S. Jallow, Vice-President of the Gambia, emphasized the Awaza Programme of Action's ambitious trade goals, which include doubling landlocked developing countries' exports and integrating them into multilateral trading systems by 2034. He noted that achieving these goals requires cooperation between development partners, transit countries, and landlocked developing countries.
The discussion also highlighted successful integration projects such as the Northern Corridor in East Africa and the African Continental Free Trade Area. The speakers noted that digital transformation can play a crucial role in overcoming traditional trade barriers, but it requires deliberate investment and legal and regulatory readiness.
Tiroeaone Ntsima, Minister for Trade and Entrepreneurship of Botswana, emphasized the importance of reliable infrastructure and collaboration with transit countries. He called for development partners to reduce non-tariff barriers and stressed the need for strong political will to turn policies into practice.
Jin Liqun, President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, spoke about the benefits of collaboration between landlocked countries and their coastal neighbors. He highlighted the potential for developing physical and digital infrastructure to facilitate trade and investment relationships.
Ian Saunders, Secretary-General of the World Customs Organization, emphasized the importance of regional trade agreements and developing digital infrastructure. He provided an example of a regional electronic cargo tracking system in East Africa that has reduced transit times significantly.
Asad Majid Khan, Secretary-General of the Economic Cooperation Organization, highlighted the importance of a holistic, whole-of-Government approach to trade facilitation. He emphasized the need for private-sector engagement and addressed the challenges posed by financial sanctions.
Maryam bint Alim bin Nasser Al Misnad, Minister of State for International Cooperation of Qatar, reaffirmed the need for strong international support to landlocked developing countries, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure, digital capacity, and investment for inclusive growth.
During the interactive dialogue, representatives from landlocked developing countries shared their efforts in regional cooperation and integration. Examples included digitized customs procedures, regional trade agreements, and infrastructure projects aimed at reducing transit times and improving economic connectivity.