The 23rd Annual Ministerial Meeting of Foreign Ministers of Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) convened recently on September 26, 2024 with a focus on preparing for the upcoming Third United Nations Conference on LLDCs (LLDC3). Hosted under the theme “Building momentum towards Gaborone: Partnering for a Decade of Action and Transformation in LLDCs,” the meeting aimed to set the stage for collaborative efforts to address the unique challenges faced by LLDCs.
Led by Hon. Dr. Lemogang Kwape, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Botswana and Global Chair of the Group of LLDCs, the meeting gathered high-level participation to review progress in implementing the Vienna Programme of Action (VPoA) and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Discussions also centered on introducing a new Programme of Action to guide LLDC development over the next decade.
Key outcomes included the adoption of a Ministerial Declaration highlighting advancements towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in LLDCs and strategies for accelerating progress. The meeting underscored the importance of robust partnerships between LLDCs, transit countries, and development partners to overcome economic and infrastructural barriers.In preparation for LLDC3 scheduled for December 2024 in Gaborone, Botswana, the meeting aimed to build political momentum and ensure comprehensive stakeholder engagement. It also included the election of a new Bureau for the Group of LLDCs for the term 2024-2025.
The opening session featured remarks from global leaders, including H.E Mr. Philemon Yang, President of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly, and Ms. Rabab Fatima, Under-Secretary General and High Representative for LLDCs and Small Island Developing States.
The International Think Tank for Landlocked Developing Countries (ITTLLDC) also contributed insights into LLDC challenges and initiatives, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions and international cooperation. Executive Director of ITTLLDC Mr. Dulguun Damdin-Od shared ITTLLDC’s ongoing commitment to research, advocacy, and capacity-building efforts.
Notably, ITTLLDC, in collaboration with international partners like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), International Trade Center (ITC), and Green Climate Fund (GCF), is organizing three side events at the LLDC3 focusing on ICT, international trade, and climate change. The Executive Director also showcased key ITTLLDC research initiatives, including studies on Mongolia’s transport sector, multilateral diplomacy, aviation challenges for LLDCs, civil society participation in the digital transition, and the creation of a research and innovation network for LLDCs.Overall, the Ministerial Meeting set a proactive tone for LLDCs’ participation in the upcoming LLDC3, highlighting their commitment to achieving sustainable development and inclusive growth in the global arena.
