Brussels, – The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) in overcoming the unique challenges they face, particularly in trade, infrastructure, and climate resilience.
This announcement comes as the EU prepares for the third UN Conference on LLDCs (LLDC3), scheduled for December 10-13, 2024, in Gaborone, Botswana. The conference will focus on “Driving Progress through Partnerships,” aiming to provide new frameworks to accelerate sustainable development and resilience in LLDCs.
The EU’s commitment to LLDCs was outlined in the Council’s conclusions on 18 November 2024, where it emphasized its continued cooperation with these countries. LLDCs, which include 32 nations such as Afghanistan, Botswana, Bolivia, and Uganda, collectively represent a population of approximately 570 million people.
“Landlocked countries face significant barriers due to geographical constraints, including limited access to global markets, reliance on transit through neighboring countries, and high transportation costs. These barriers contribute to challenges in accessing international finance and investment,” the EU noted.
EU’s Partnership with LLDCs
The EU has consistently worked to strengthen its partnerships with LLDCs, both bilaterally and regionally. With a renewed focus on accelerating the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the EU aims to help these countries navigate their specific challenges while ensuring that no one is left behind in the process.
The Council’s conclusions highlight the EU’s active role in supporting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. “We are committed to helping LLDCs overcome ongoing challenges and build resilience against future shocks. The EU recognizes the need for concrete priorities tailored to the specific needs of LLDCs,” it stated.
In line with the SDGs, the EU has focused on sectors such as trade facilitation, infrastructure development, and regional integration. Special emphasis has been placed on the potential of initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area, which is seen as a transformative opportunity for LLDCs in Africa.
Financial and Technical Support
Over the past year, the EU has allocated substantial financial resources to assist LLDCs. In 2022, the EU provided approximately €10.6 billion in Official Development Assistance (ODA) to LLDCs, while the European Investment Bank financed over €3 billion in projects across 24 of these countries. The support is directed at improving livelihoods, enhancing infrastructure, and advancing the SDGs in these nations.
Moreover, the EU’s “Global Gateway” strategy focuses on investments in key sectors such as digital connectivity, climate, and energy, with a strong emphasis on sustainable solutions. Notable initiatives include the Lobito Corridor project in Southern Africa and a series of Team Europe initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity in Central Asia.
“The EU is dedicated to helping LLDCs transition to greener, more resilient economies,” the conclusions stressed, highlighting the role of renewable energy, digital transformation, and innovation in addressing these countries’ unique needs.
Looking Ahead: LLDC3 and Future Cooperation
As the EU prepares for LLDC3, the focus will be on translating the goals of the 2024 Summit of the Future into actionable plans. The EU has committed to working closely with partners, including the UN Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS), to address the specific challenges LLDCs face.
The Council’s conclusions also stress the importance of multilateral efforts in financing development and addressing global inequalities. “The EU supports the reform of the international financial architecture, with a focus on developing innovative financing tools such as climate resilience debt clauses,” it noted.
Ahead of LLDC3, the EU looks forward to further collaboration with LLDCs in areas such as climate change, structural transformation, and trade facilitation. The EU remains committed to ensuring that these countries can fully participate in global trade and sustainable development, with a particular focus on bridging digital divides and supporting the green transition.
