Ashgabat: In a significant address at the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), the European Union (EU) reaffirmed its commitment to supporting these nations through targeted financial resources, infrastructure development, and strategic partnerships. The conference, hosted by Turkmenistan, brought together global leaders and stakeholders to discuss the unique challenges faced by LLDCs and strategies to foster sustainable development.
According to European Union, the Awaza Programme of Action underlines the necessity of utilizing technology and innovation to address the structural constraints of LLDCs, such as limited connectivity and high trade costs. The program emphasizes the need for integrated strategies that leverage digital transformation and strengthen trade linkages, while promoting climate and economic resilience. To achieve these goals, the EU calls for enhanced international cooperation and multi-stakeholder partnerships, aligning the priorities of the Awaza Programme with investments in infrastructure and human capital.
Finance remains a central focus of this transformative agenda. The EU advocates for a shift in the international financial architecture to provide increased and accessible resources tailored to the needs of LLDCs. Initiatives like the Global Gateway are central to these efforts, as they aim to enhance connectivity and develop sustainable infrastructure, empowering LLDCs to transform into dynamic economic hubs.
The EU is actively engaging in various projects to support LLDCs. Notable examples include the Lobito Corridor project, which aims to improve railway connectivity between the DRC, Zambia, and Angola, and the NDjamena-Douala corridor project, enhancing connectivity between the Sahel and the Gulf of Guinea. Additionally, the EU is contributing over EUR 700 million annually towards the Great Green Wall Initiative to combat desertification in the Sahel.
In Central Asia, the EU’s Team Europe Initiatives focus on digital connectivity and regional integration, with plans to develop the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. In the Caucasus, efforts include building a customs terminal and extending roads to facilitate trade. In Nepal, the EU is extending the Chilime-Trishuli electricity line to improve rural electrification.
The EU also renewed its dialogue with Latin America and the Caribbean, consolidating an investment agenda with specific programs in climate, energy, and sanitation in countries like Paraguay and Bolivia.
The EU’s financial contributions are substantial, with EUR 88.7 billion in Official Development Assistance provided in 2024, including EUR 2.7 billion allocated specifically for LLDCs in 2023 by EU institutions. This support is complemented by additional assistance from EU Member States.
Concluding the address, the EU expressed its commitment to the success of the LLDC3 conference and its readiness to collaborate with LLDCs on the Awaza Programme of Action’s priorities, aiming for sustainable and resilient development.