UN chief calls for more aid to landlocked developing countries
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon yesterday called on the international community to provide more assistance to the world's 31 landlocked developing countries (LLDCs). He said,
Many countries, however, continue to struggle with the daunting challenges they face on their development path. Many remain marginalized from the world economy with limited access to global markets and to the sea for external trade.
The lack of domestic resources makes it challenging for Governments to adequately respond to the challenges they face. Let's not forget that more than half of the landlocked developing countries belong to the least developed countries category.
As we attempt to find long-term solutions to their plight, external investment is critical in enabling landlocked developing countries to substantially mitigate their unfavourable geographical locations.
Foreign direct investment has a great potential as contributor to growth and development. It can bring capital, technology, management know-how and access to new markets. In comparison with other forms of capital flows, it is also more stable, with a longer-term commitment to the host economy.
We have an obligation to keep our promise to achieve the Millennium Development Goals in all countries. Half-way towards 2015 we need to accelerate progress, particularly in the 31 landlocked developing countries. These countries require our collective special attention.