Awaza: The Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) began here today, bringing together global leaders to discuss strategies for overcoming the unique challenges faced by these nations.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Hojamyrat Geldimyradov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, and Antonio Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, warmly welcomed the heads of state and government representatives to the Awaza-based Sports Complex, the venue for this pivotal gathering. In his opening address, the UN Secretary-General underscored the importance of joint efforts and critical support to enhance LLDCs’ access to international markets, emphasizing the need to tackle the challenges impeding their progress.
The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedow, highlighted the significance of South-South cooperation in addressing the economic and social hurdles confronting landlocked developing countries. He also advocated for the active participation of parliamentary forums, youth, and civil society networks to address these pressing issues. Dennis Francis, President of the 79th United Nations General Assembly, also delivered remarks during the opening session.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of Nepal is slated to address the Conference today, both as the Chair of the Global Coordination Bureau of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and in his national capacity. The Prime Minister is also expected to co-chair a high-level roundtable and participate in other key events throughout the Conference.
In addition to his official duties, Prime Minister Oli plans to engage in bilateral meetings with heads of delegations from various countries and other high-ranking officials from the UN and international organizations. Leading a Nepali delegation, Prime Minister Oli arrived on August 4 and is accompanied by his spouse Radhika Shakya, Chief Advisor Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Member of the Federal Parliament Surya Bahadur Thapa Kshetree, personal physician Prof Dr Dibya Singh Shah, Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, and other senior government officials. The Prime Minister is scheduled to return to Nepal on August 8.