Ministerial Meeting on South-South Cooperation…

15:00-16:15 Session 3: Leveraging South-South cooperation to promote trade facilitation and deepen regional integration for increased participation of LLDCs in international trade

Improved trade facilitation, such as streamlining and harmonization of customs and transit procedures, transparent and efficient border management and coordination in border clearance would help LLDCs towards enhancing the competitiveness of their exports and strengthening the global value chains. This requires enhanced cooperation at the global, regional and subregional levels including South-South cooperation in sharing best practices in customs, border and corridor management and in the implementation of trade facilitation policies.

16:20-17:35 Session 4: Strengthening development financing through South-South and triangular cooperation for inclusive, equitable and affordable connectivity of LLDCs

LLDCs face unique development challenges stemming from their lack of direct access to the sea and consequent isolation from global markets. These 5 6 structural disadvantages are compounded by critical infrastructure deficits across transport, energy, and digital networks, which constrain connectivity and economic integration. Under the Vienna Programme of Action (VPoA), notable progress has been achieved in expanding transit corridors, energy grids, and digital infrastructure. However, the scale of financing required to close these gaps far exceeds the capacity of LLDCs' domestic resources and official development assistance (ODA), highlighting the urgent need for innovative financing solutions.

17:40-18:00 Closing segment