Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, has called for stronger cooperation, regional integration and improved connectivity to address the structural challenges facing landlocked developing countries.
Nduhungirehe made the call while attending the Ministerial Meeting of Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81).
The meeting was held under the theme, “Building resilient and connected LLDCs: Accelerating the implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action through partnerships.”
In his remarks, Nduhungirehe stressed that landlocked countries require stronger partnerships with neighbouring states and international partners to overcome the geographical and economic barriers associated with the lack of direct access to the sea.
“Stronger cooperation between countries, enhanced connectivity and regional integration are essential to addressing the structural challenges faced by landlocked developing countries.”
He said such cooperation is particularly important in facilitating trade and the movement of people and goods, while also supporting the development of infrastructure that connects landlocked countries to regional and international markets.
The minister further emphasized that improving transport and trade links can help landlocked developing countries participate more effectively in regional and global value chains, creating opportunities for sustainable economic growth.
He also highlighted the importance of ensuring that development efforts are inclusive and sustainable, with partnerships designed to reduce the disadvantages created by geographical constraints.
The ministerial meeting provided a platform for LLDCs and their partners to discuss ways of accelerating implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action, which seeks to address the economic and development challenges faced by countries without direct access to the sea.
For Rwanda, a landlocked country whose economy depends heavily on regional transport corridors, improved connectivity and efficient cross-border trade remain important to expanding access to markets and strengthening regional economic integration.
