An event took place on the topic "Connectivity Track: Digital Potential Beyond Boundaries" today at the "Avaza" National Tourism Zone within the framework of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs).

The forum was organized by the United Nations Office of the High Representative for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States, together with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

Participants included representatives from government bodies of developing landlocked countries, international organizations including the UN, major financial institutions, the private sector, and civil society.

The forum served as a unique platform for the global community to reaffirm its commitments under the Awaza Programme of Action supporting landlocked countries. The role of digital technologies in the development of countries facing geographical challenges was discussed.

It was noted that LLDCs face several challenges on the path to sustainable economic development. The lack of direct access to the sea creates difficulties in transport and communications. Nevertheless, digital connectivity opens broad opportunities for these states. Development of modern digital infrastructure and services helps overcome barriers and gain access to global markets.

Digitalization of economic activity enables landlocked countries to participate more actively in international trade. Moreover, information and communication technologies were identified as a crucial tool for enhancing the efficiency of transport and logistics systems. Advanced management systems based on such technologies contribute to simplifying trade operations and significantly reducing costs. Implementation of digital technologies in public services improves their quality, especially in key areas such as education and healthcare.

Speakers emphasized digital connectivity as the most important condition for inclusive and sustainable economic development in the 21st century. Modern export strategies focused on growth pay special attention to services, including technological modernization of agriculture and manufacturing. Efficient functioning of these sectors requires accessible and reliable digital connectivity.

Furthermore, the operation of infrastructure such as roads and ports cannot be imagined without digital technologies. Simplification of digital trade and modernization of customs services support the development of transit trade.

During the forum, directions for developing digital systems in landlocked countries were reviewed. These efforts align with the five priority areas of the Awaza Programme of Action. One of these priorities includes institutional reforms, science, technology, and innovation. This priority covers several goals and commitments in digital connectivity, including ensuring equal digital development among countries in artificial intelligence and other digital technologies; creating regional digital platforms for education and experience exchange; raising awareness in areas such as advanced analytics, AI, and automation; improving connection to digital infrastructure; expanding access to technological innovations; developing and strengthening national digital strategies; supporting effective digital connectivity; and creating regulatory frameworks and favorable conditions.

It was stressed that successful implementation of these tasks requires global and sustainable connectivity, supported by necessary investments and cooperation.

Additionally, participants were introduced to the Partner2Connect initiative and the ITU's investment initiative in digital infrastructure.