Tokayev Explored Pavilions Representing Central Asian Nations at an Exhibition
President Tokayev Highlights Climate Challenges and Economic Barriers at UN Conference
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan recently travelled to Turkmenistan to participate in the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs). The conference, held in Awaza, brought together leaders from Central Asian countries to discuss the unique challenges faced by landlocked nations.
During his speech, President Tokayev emphasised the disproportionate climate vulnerabilities faced by LLDCs, such as water scarcity, glacial melt, and desertification. He explained how these climate-related challenges exacerbate the difficulties LLDCs encounter in development and trade.
Tokayev also highlighted the high trade costs in LLDCs, which are 74% higher than in coastal countries, and cross-border shipping that takes twice as long. He called for systemic solutions and genuine international solidarity to address these disparities and foster inclusion of LLDCs in the global development agenda.
Kazakhstan's hosting of a UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals was presented as an example of commitment to inclusive regional growth and cooperation. President Tokayev concluded by underscoring that strengthening international partnerships is essential to ensure landlocked countries are fully part of global sustainable development efforts.
In addition to the conference discussions, visitors were treated to a theatrical performance featuring a ceremonial welcome and national rituals. The pavilions of Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, showcased the rich cultural heritage and hospitality of the region. Kazakh yurts were set up in the exhibition, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
The Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries is a significant event for the Central Asian countries, as it provides a platform to discuss and address the challenges they face. Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan also prepared their pavilions for the conference, demonstrating their commitment to the cause.
President Tokayev's remarks at the conference linked climate change vulnerabilities with the urgent need to reduce economic barriers in global markets for LLDCs, advocating for international cooperation and targeted support to overcome these intersecting challenges.
- The unique challenges faced by landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), such as water scarcity, glacial melt, and desertification, are exacerbated by climate-related issues, making it difficult for them to engage in development and trade.
- President Tokayev, during the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, emphasized the high trade costs in LLDCs and advocated for systemic solutions and genuine international solidarity to address these disparities.
- While discussing the challenges faced by LLDCs, the conference also provided a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Central Asian countries, as evident in the pavilions and theatrical performances.
- President Tokayev's speech at the conference linked the disproportionate climate vulnerabilities faced by LLDCs with the urgent need to reduce economic barriers in global markets, advocating for international cooperation and targeted support to overcome these intersecting challenges.
