The Role of Digital Technologies in the Sustainable Development of LLDCs Discussed in Awaza

As part of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), the Civil Society Forum continued its work in the format of thematic sessions. According to the TDH agency, special attention was given to the session titled “Digital Economy, Innovation, and Sustainable Development,” where participants discussed the importance of digital transformation in achieving inclusive and sustainable development in the era of rapidly advancing technologies.

Experts and government representatives emphasized the necessity of ensuring equal access to digital technologies for all citizens, developing the necessary infrastructure, and enhancing cybersecurity in digital systems. Special focus was placed on supporting innovation ecosystems — which encourage startup entrepreneurship and the implementation of advanced technologies. As a result, productivity increases, and service quality improves.

The forum also explored opportunities for applying transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain in the implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action. This programme aims to eliminate infrastructure-related barriers caused by the geographic location of LLDCs, improve the efficiency of public administration, enhance access to education and healthcare, and facilitate logistics and trade operations.

In this context, one of Turkmenistan’s key priorities was identified as ensuring universal access to digital and mobile services. Large-scale projects are being implemented in the country to develop modern communication infrastructure with the goal of expanding internet access and improving the quality and variety of services. This approach supports sustainable development and accelerates the integration of landlocked developing countries into the global economy.