Digital transformation for LLDCs discussed in Avaza

The National Tourist Zone Avaza hosted the event "Connectivity: Digital Opportunities Beyond Borders" dedicated to the role of digital transformation in the development of landlocked countries. The forum was held within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. Arzuw.news reports with reference to Turkmenistan: Golden Age.

The event was attended by representatives of LLDC government agencies, international organizations, including the UN, major financial institutions, the private sector and civil society.

Forum participants noted the key role of digital transformation in modernizing the social and trade spheres, public administration, education and health care in landlocked countries. At the same time, most LLDCs face poor telecommunications infrastructure, low internet penetration and high cost of digital services.

Partner2Connect, the International Telecommunication Union's investment initiative and the European Union's initiative to support digital transformation in Central Asia were presented during the event. The Avaza Action Agenda includes goals for digital connectivity, covering institutional reforms, science, technology and innovation.

The participants paid special attention to the development of transport infrastructure as a strategic direction for LLDCs. The role of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor in ensuring efficient transit cargo transportation between Europe and Asia was discussed.

Under the leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Turkmenistan is expanding transport and transit corridors in the North-South and East-West directions, implementing the strategy of reviving the Great Silk Road. On Turkmenistan's initiative, an international conference of LLDC transport ministers was held in Avaza in August 2022, and the UN General Assembly proclaimed November 26 as the World Day of Sustainable Transport.