The Private Sector Forum, held within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), has concluded in the Avaza National Tourist Zone of Turkmenistan, reports news agency Turkmenistan Today.
The event brought together over 300 participants, including business leaders, government delegates, and UN representatives from 32 countries. Its main goal was to develop practical strategies for sustainable economic growth in landlocked nations. The forum was organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan and the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, with support from the Office of the UN High Representative for the LLDCs.
Participants highlighted the forum as a vital platform for direct dialogue between the private sector and governments—an essential step for advancing major investment projects in regions facing infrastructure constraints and high transit costs.
A key focus was placed on Turkmenistan’s strategic role as a central transport and logistics hub in Central Asia, linking Europe and Asia. Local entrepreneurs presented international partners with projects in logistics, digital platforms, and smart infrastructure.
One of the main outcomes was the establishment of a Global Business Network for LLDCs—a permanent platform to coordinate investment initiatives. Participants also adopted recommendations in four strategic areas: trade development, economic digitalization, green transformation, and enhanced financial inclusion.
Experts recalled that LLDCs lose an average of 1.4% of GDP annually due to transit-related expenses. The solutions proposed at the forum aim to reduce these costs through deeper regional integration and the adoption of innovative technologies.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
August 19, 2025