Addis Ababa, August 6, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia has called for a transformative global approach to ensure equal maritime rights for landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), urging world leaders to renew their commitment to inclusive and effective partnerships that address the unique structural challenges these nations face.
Speaking at the opening of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3) in Awaza, Turkmenistan, Ethiopia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime, emphasized the need for guaranteed and secure access to the sea—not only for transit, but also for full participation in maritime economic opportunities, environmental protection, and security.
“Ethiopia believes that resources on the high seas—covering roughly 50% of the planet’s surface—should contribute to prosperity for all countries,” Alemu stated, calling for a paradigm-shifting approach to ensure equal maritime rights for all states.
The conference, held under the theme *“Driving Progress through Partnerships”*, has brought together leaders and stakeholders from the 32 LLDCs, representing more than 600 million people, to accelerate sustainable development through enhanced trade, infrastructure, and regional integration.
Ethiopia welcomed the Awaza Programme of Action (APoA), particularly its proposal to establish a high-level expert panel on implementing equal access to the sea. Alemu stressed that these rights should be implemented holistically, in line with international law, to foster shared development and lasting peace.
He also underscored the urgency of investing in regional infrastructure to connect landlocked states, liberalize access to transport and logistics markets, promote trade facilitation, and advance digital and technological solutions.
Calling for a significant increase in international financing, especially for African infrastructure projects, Alemu urged development partners to support efforts in streamlining customs procedures, harmonizing transit regulations, and strengthening coordinated border management.
“Unlocking the full potential of LLDCs requires renewed global commitment and collaborative maritime governance,” the minister said, adding that Ethiopia remains committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and full implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action.
Adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 2024, the Awaza Programme of Action (2024–2034) represents a renewed international pledge to support LLDCs across Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America.