On the second day of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia, co-chaired a high-level thematic roundtable alongside H.E. Mr. Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal.
The roundtable, themed “Seizing the Transformative Potential of Trade, Trade Facilitation, and Regional Integration for LLDCs,” brought together global leaders, development partners, and trade experts to explore sustainable solutions for landlocked nations, many of which face significant geographic and logistical barriers to development.
Delivering his address at the session, Vice President Jallow highlighted the urgency and importance of implementing the Awaza Programme of Action, a strategic framework aimed at transforming the development landscape for LLDCs. He noted that the programme’s goals include:
Doubling exports of LLDCs by 2034
Diversifying trade portfolios
Reducing border and port transit delays
Investing in digital trade and e-commerce
Strengthening regional and subregional integration efforts
“Only by working together, development partners, transit countries, and LLDCs—can we ensure that no country is held back due to geography,” said VP Jallow, calling for deeper collaboration and more inclusive trade frameworks.
He concluded the session by stressing the need for urgent reforms in global trade systems that would enable LLDCs to participate more meaningfully in the multilateral trading order, thus accelerating their development and resilience.
Bilateral Talks on the Sidelines
On the margins of the conference, Vice President Jallow held key bilateral discussions with His Excellency Serdar Berdimuhamedow, President of Turkmenistan. The two leaders explored opportunities to strengthen ties between their nations, particularly in areas of trade, infrastructure, and diplomacy.
The Vice President also met with Rabab Fatima, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for LDCs, LLDCs, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Their discussions focused on development priorities and The Gambia’s support for multilateral efforts that promote equitable growth for vulnerable countries.
The Third UN Conference on LLDCs continues in Awaza, bringing global attention to the challenges and opportunities facing landlocked countries, and The Gambia’s participation underscores its commitment to regional solidarity, partnership, and inclusive progress.