South-South Cooperation Can be Instrumental to Support LLDCs: PM Oli

Kathmandu: Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli emphasized the critical role of South-South Cooperation in supporting Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), stating that such partnerships can help overcome structural barriers and deliver lasting development outcomes.

Speaking as the Special Guest at the Ministerial Meeting on South-South Cooperation, held on the sidelines of the Third United Nations Conference on LLDCs, PM Oli said, “Geography should never limit human ambition, especially in today’s interconnected and technologically advanced world.” He mentioned that despite their aspirations, LLDCs continue to face compounded challenges including geopolitical tensions, climate change, inflation, and declining development finance.

Citing the persistent decline in Official Development Assistance and Foreign Direct Investment to LLDCs, PM Oli said, “Too often, development cooperation is misaligned with national priorities, limiting its long-term impact.” He stressed that South-South Cooperation offers a valuable alternative, rooted in solidarity and mutual respect.

Similarly, Prime Minister Oli proposed a set of strategic actions to deepen South-South Cooperation in support of the Awaza Programme of Action. He underlined the need to invest in resilient physical and digital infrastructure to foster regional integration, while also working collectively to develop trade and transit corridors, modernize infrastructure, and harmonize customs procedures. 

He called for the establishment of an Infrastructure Investment Facility dedicated to LLDCs, to help finance priority development projects. Furthermore, he urged all stakeholders to embrace and accelerate digital transformation to enable LLDCs to participate meaningfully in the global digital economy.

Calling for a renewed commitment, PM Oli concluded, “Let us seize this moment to reinvigorate South-South Cooperation as a dynamic force for shared progress. Together, we can build bridges of opportunity, break barriers of exclusion, and deliver prosperity to our people.”