Somalia Seeks Greater Regional Integration at UN Conference for Landlocked States

GOOBJOOG NEWS | AWAZA, Turkmenistan: Somalia has used its participation in the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) to advocate for stronger regional cooperation and inclusive trade policies that benefit both landlocked nations and their transit partners.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Isaaq Mahmoud Mursal, represented Somalia at the gathering in Awaza, where he underscored the country’s role as a vital gateway for landlocked neighbours in East Africa.

“Somalia stands ready to strengthen connectivity and infrastructure that facilitates trade and regional development,” Mursal said, pointing to major port and corridor projects underway along Somalia’s coastline.

The conference, which brings together over 30 landlocked countries and development partners, is focused on reducing trade barriers, enhancing transit agreements, and boosting investment in critical infrastructure.

Somalia’s engagement reflects its broader strategy to position itself as a regional logistics and trade hub, while also benefiting from enhanced cooperation frameworks and development financing.

The event is expected to produce actionable commitments aimed at transforming LLDC challenges into shared economic opportunities.