Avaza Agenda ‘Provides Optimism and Direction’ for Countries in the Global South
On August 6, a ministerial meeting on South-South cooperation was held at the Avaza National Tourist Zone as part of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. UN Deputy Secretary-General Rabab Fatima welcomed the participants. She expressed gratitude for organizing the meeting and praised the importance of South-South cooperation and triangular engagement for landlocked developing countries (LLDCs).
“This meeting is a timely platform to advance our common efforts and explore new opportunities to strengthen South-South and triangular cooperation in support of the 32 landlocked developing countries. It is through such partnerships that we will be able to translate the ambitious goals of the Avaza Agenda into concrete, transformative results on the ground,” Rabab Fatima emphasized.
She also noted that South-South cooperation could have a catalytic impact in a number of priority areas:
• Creating sustainable and competitive economic corridors through infrastructure investment, streamlining cross-border processes and harmonizing digital solutions.
• Expanding infrastructure, energy and digital connectivity. The launch of the LLDC Global Business Network yesterday was called a “timely and strategic step.”
“The Awaza Agenda is not just a roadmap, it is a call for partnership, action and solidarity,” concluded Rabab Fatima.
Prime Minister of Nepal Sharma Oli spoke as a special guest. He noted that the Avaza Action Program “provides much-needed optimism and direction” by providing a “visionary and practical roadmap based on structural transformation.”
“South-South cooperation, based on solidarity, mutual respect and shared responsibility, promotes mutual learning, capacity development and technology transfer, taking into account the unique needs and aspirations of landlocked developing countries,” the Prime Minister emphasized.
He identified four key strategic directions for the successful implementation of the APA:
Regional integration through investments in sustainable physical and digital infrastructure;
Development of trade and transit corridors, infrastructure modernization and harmonization of customs procedures;
Creation of an infrastructure investment fund for landlocked countries;
Accelerating digital transformation for full participation in the global digital economy.
During the meeting, participants paid special attention to trade facilitation and deepening regional integration. It was emphasized that streamlining customs and transit procedures and effective border management will help LLDCs improve the competitiveness of their exports. To this end, it is necessary to expand cooperation at all levels, including the exchange of best practices.
In addition, the APA plans to focus on ensuring access to modern technologies and know-how, which is a prerequisite for implementing structural reforms and strengthening economic stability. Thus, the Avaza Action Program has become not just a declaration, but a concrete plan to deepen partnership and create conditions for sustainable development in the global South.
ORIENT
