New York: Amid calls from landlocked developing countries for more transportation infrastructure and transit corridors, a speaker at a recent round-table discussion at the Third Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries encouraged these nations to use existing international instruments to enable smoother transit.
According to EMM, the theme of the round table was "Building sustainable infrastructure, strengthening connectivity, and promoting unfettered transit systems for landlocked developing countries." Umberto de Pretto, Secretary-General of the International Road Transport Union, highlighted that geography does not dictate a nation's future, using Switzerland as an example. He emphasized the importance of solutions beyond physical infrastructure, pointing out that billions are spent on roads, yet drivers face significant delays at borders.
Transit costs for landlocked countries are notably higher, with Emile Zerbo, Burkina Faso’s Minister of State for Territorial Administration and Mobility, noting that transport costs for West African landlocked countries represent a significant portion of total costs compared to coastal nations. Zerbo discussed the critical need for interconnected infrastructure and the challenges of high freight costs and port charges.
Fatou Haidara from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization underscored the economic significance of transport corridors, stressing the importance of digital connectivity and reliable energy corridors to enhance competitiveness. Leila Batyrbekova, representing the Europe and Central Asia Transport and Trade Association, called for improved infrastructure and the harmonization of customs procedures.
Madina Sissoko Dembele, Mali's Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, emphasized the need for innovative resources and partnerships to reduce transit costs, which can be as high as 70% of total transport expenses for landlocked countries. Delegates from countries like Lesotho, Lao People's Democratic Republic, and Zimbabwe shared their challenges and initiatives to improve connectivity.
Gateway countries, including Angola and Tanzania, outlined their contributions to regional connectivity, with Angola highlighting the Lobito Corridor and Tanzania modernizing the port of Dar-e-Salam. The European Union and other representatives stressed the importance of digitalization, streamlined border management, and harmonized customs procedures.
Dima Al-Khatib from the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation called for massive investment to bridge a $500 billion finance gap for least developed countries, stressing the need for financing mechanisms that do not impose additional burdens.