Excellencies, distinguished delegates
It is an honour to address this third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, on behalf of the International Telecommunication Union.
I thank the Government of Turkmenistan and for hosting this conference and for the hospitality extended to us.
Digital has a role to play in each of the five Priority Areas of the Awaza Programme of Action as it points to the need for strengthening structural transformation, science, technology and innovation, connectivity, strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change and disasters.
Lack of territorial access to the sea, remoteness, and high transit costs impose serious constraints on the overall socio-economic development of landlocked developing countries.
The high costs, infrastructure gaps, and vulnerabilities, limit internet access in LLDCs.
We have to act, and act now.
Data from our recent report on connectivity in LLDCs shows that only 39% of people in LLDCs are online, less than the global average of 68%. It is worse off for women, those in rural areas, and among the marginalized communities.
Digital literacy remains low and regulatory frameworks are insufficient.
I believe it is realistic to achieve universal connectivity by 2030 but this will require substantially greater investment in digital infrastructure and human capacity-building.
ITU’s role is to support LLDCs in achieving that goal by supporting the development of policies and regulatory frameworks that can expand digital infrastructure in countries, to make them more resilient and secure on one hand, and accessible and affordable on the other.
Our technical standards help LLDCs overcome geographic and infrastructure barriers enabling interoperability, inclusion, and access to global digital markets.
LLDCs can leap geographic constraints through fair access to spectrum and satellites connecting remote areas, developing digital skills which in turn enable participation in trade, education, disaster response and much more.
In line with the adopted Global Digital Compact, ITU is putting people first, through promoting safe, inclusive access to emerging technologies.
I must add that AI offers real promise for LLDCs, but progress depends on strong ecosystems, and ethical standards, and data availability.
ITU looks forward to working with all of you in the decade to come, to confirm that landlocked does not mean condemnation.
The potential is real. The moment is now. Let us act on it together. Digital has transformative potential that contributes to global sustainable development.
Thank you.
