Guterres addresses business at forum in Turkmenistan

Avaza, August 5 - Arzuw.news. UN Secretary-General António Guterres addressed the Private Sector Forum at the Third Conference on Landlocked Countries, emphasizing the key role of business in the development of these countries. Arzuw.news reports with reference to the Information Center Business Turkmenistan.

The UN chief said the private sector remains a critical engine of progress and a key partner for LLDC countries in achieving sustainable economic growth. He said landlocked states face serious challenges, including high transportation costs, limited access to markets and dependence on external infrastructure.

At the same time, Guterres noted the untapped potential of these countries in tourism, agriculture, renewable energy, digital technologies and extraction of strategically important resources. The Avaza Action Program offers a clear plan for integrating LLDC countries into the global economy.

Among the key challenges, the Secretary General highlighted investment in cross-border infrastructure, modernization of customs procedures, expansion of blended finance mechanisms and human capital development. Special attention is paid to supporting women, youth and entrepreneurship development.

Guterres called for reform of international financial institutions to give developing countries greater representation and access to resources. Multilateral development banks should increase lending and do more to reduce risks to the private sector.

The UN chief called on the business community to seize opportunities to expand global markets and achieve the goals of the UN's 2030 Agenda.