A representative of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC), Mai Yakub, stated that the ongoing conference in Turkmenistan will play a key role in strengthening strategic partnerships.
In an interview with Anadolu Agency, Yakub noted that LLDCs face “serious challenges” in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals due to geographic isolation, high transportation costs, dependence on transit neighbors, and underdeveloped infrastructure.
According to her, deep structural economic issues persist in these countries.
Yakub noted that climate challenges are worsening instability in food and water security, while natural disasters cause damage equivalent to up to 4% of GDP annually.
She emphasized that limited access to financing and technology is hindering digitalization and productivity growth. Despite regional efforts, including the Vienna Programme of Action, many challenges remain.
“Investments in infrastructure, debt relief, fair climate policies, and strengthening global partnerships are necessary to overcome these challenges,” Yakub said. She added that the current conference in Turkmenistan plays a “critically important role” in this process.
According to Yakub, the conference plans to advance issues of structural transformation, infrastructure development, trade, climate, and financing within the framework of the Awaza Programme of Action for 2024–2034.
-Emphasis on cultural diplomacy and integration
Among the key initiatives, Yakub mentioned the creation of the Global Infrastructure Investment Fund, Digital Connectivity Programs, and active private sector involvement in agriculture and trade. She also highlighted the holding of high-level panels on food security and the removal of trade barriers, including the issue of freedom of transit and the establishment of regional centers for agricultural research.
