3rd UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries Opens in Turkmenistan, the Honourable Minister Presides over Plenary Session

The 3rd United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3) opened today in the Awaza National Tourist Zone, Turkmenistan. The high-level event runs until August 8 and brings together heads of state, ministers, and delegates from around the world to tackle challenges faced by the 32 nations classified as LLDCs.

This year’s theme, “Driving Progress through Partnerships,” focuses on the role of international cooperation in overcoming geographical barriers and supporting sustainable development.

During the inaugural plenary session, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations of Lesotho, the Honourable Lejone Mpotjoana, was elected as Vice President and chaired the proceedings. His appointment reflects Lesotho’s growing leadership within the LLDC group and its commitment to advancing collective interests.

The conference serves as a platform for LLDCs to engage with transit countries, development partners, and international organizations to build partnerships that can improve trade, connectivity, and economic growth.

The agenda includes high-level roundtables, civil society and youth forums, private sector discussions, and general debates. Delegates are expected to adopt the “Awaza Programme of Action (APoA) for LLDCs 2024-2034,” which will guide development priorities for the next decade. The APoA will target trade facilitation, structural transformation, transport links, technology adoption, and climate resilience.

For Lesotho, participation in LLDC3 is essential for ensuring that its development priorities are included in the new global strategy. The Honourable Mpotjoana is set to deliver Lesotho’s national statement, highlighting progress made, current needs, and a vision for stronger integration and prosperity across all landlocked developing nations.