General debates were held at the plenary session of the UN Conference in Avaza

At the plenary session of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, a general debate was held in the Avaza National Tourist Zone.

Participants at the event – representatives of governments, international organizations, the private sector and civil society – emphasized the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to addressing the challenges faced by LLDCs. The debates identified specific goals and initiatives to improve the effectiveness of ongoing programs and expand partnerships at the regional and global levels.

The issues discussed at the plenary session included the development of transport infrastructure and the creation of modern transport corridors. As noted, optimization of the specialized sphere is the main factor in minimizing logistical barriers, increasing trade volumes and the competitiveness of the innovative economy. Particular attention was paid to the modernization of railway and automobile routes, the development of port infrastructure and the introduction of innovative technologies in the transport sector. In this regard, examples were given of the successful implementation of large infrastructure projects that improved the interconnectivity of regional markets and brought them closer together.

During the discussions, the need to attract capital investment in the transport segment was emphasized. Those gathered noted that effective infrastructure development is not limited to the construction of new facilities, it also requires the modernization of existing ones, maintaining their resistance to climate change and other risks.

The main issues brought up for discussion included improving logistics systems and strengthening trade partnerships to increase the openness of trade operations. As noted, constructive interstate relations help reduce freight transportation times and strengthen trust between partners. In this regard, joint initiatives to harmonize customs procedures are of particular importance.

The session participants also discussed the prospects for creating regional logistics centers to improve the quality of services. As was emphasized, increasing cooperation involves not only the participation of government agencies, but also requires the active involvement of the private sector and international organizations.

Today, digital trade and innovative technologies play a decisive role in the development of the RSNVM. Participants in the plenary session noted that the development of a corresponding digital system allows for the expansion of electronic platforms, the development of electronic commerce and the introduction of high technologies, which in turn increases the efficiency of trade procedures and accelerates entry into the global market.

The session also emphasized the important role of agriculture in ensuring food abundance, creating new jobs and stimulating economic growth in the LLDCs. The participants identified the introduction of advanced agricultural technology and increasing labor productivity in agriculture as priority tasks. In this regard, a strategy for supporting small and medium-sized farms, which constitute a key segment of agricultural production and ensure the supply of food to the population at the local level, was discussed.

The emphasis was placed on the system of storage and processing of agricultural products. At the same time, the possibilities of introducing sustainable agricultural practices aimed at preserving natural resources and adapting to climate change were considered. The participants of the session emphasized the importance of integrating national and regional strategies for agricultural development.

Those gathered also noted the need to intensify the attraction of investments and financial support for development projects in the LLDCs. As was emphasized, the implementation of large-scale infrastructure, technological and social initiatives requires significant investments. In this regard, emphasis was placed on the special role of international financial institutions, investors, the private sector and states in creating a favorable investment climate.

Special attention was paid to issues of ensuring gender equality, empowerment of women in LLDCs. As noted by the session participants, equality of women and men is an integral part of sustainable development, social justice and economic prosperity. Women occupy a significant position in various segments of the economy, in particular, in the agricultural and private sectors, education and health systems. And it is important to support and expand women's participation in activities in these areas.

The current plenary session of the Third UN Conference on LLDCs has become a significant stage in enhancing cooperation and consolidating the efforts of these countries. Its participants confirmed the importance of ensuring sustainable development and prosperity throughout the region through joint efforts to expand infrastructure, improve logistics and agriculture, promote gender equality, and intensify investment.

Source: State News Agency of Turkmenistan