Once again the partnership and robust relations between Qatar and the United Nations built over half a century has provided an opportunity for the 46 Least Developed countries (LDCs) to gather and discuss the adoption of the next Programme of Action, building on the lessons learned from the implementation of the previous programme of actions.
Placing the responsibility on Qatar to help the least developed countries was not out of the blue. Qatar is deeply invested in achieving peace and stability. The country is alos commited to development of a sustainable world with equal opportunities for all.
The LDCs have the poorest and most vulnerable economies in the world while their population comprises about 14% of the global population. Qatar shares the opinion like the UN and many countries the fact that the LDCs represent the battleground where the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development will be won or lost as this is a test for the commitment of the international community.
While addressign the opening session, the Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani reminded the international community to assume their responsibilities to contemplate challenges facing the least developed countries which accounts for only 1.3% of global gross domestic product, receive just 1.4% of total foreign direct investment and trade under 1% of world merchandise exports, which means millions of people in these countries are still burdened with poverty, lack of food besides health care and education.
Based on Qatar's firm commitment to supporting the development process of the LDCs, the Amir announced a financial contribution of a total amount of $60 million.
The Amir also stressed that Qatar’s National Vision 2030, upholds the values and principles of cooperation, partnership, and solidarity in helping countries, peoples, and communities suffering from humanitarian crises, conflicts, poverty, and debts. He added that Qatar has made a lot of humanitarian and development contributions in accordance with the formulas of bilateral and multilateral cooperation, especially within the framework of strategic partnerships with the United Nations and other leading international institutions.
The support announced by the Amir was valued by the President of the Republic of Malawi Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, and Chairman of the Group of Least Developed Countries, as the support reflects Qatar's stance to support the implementation of the Doha Programme of Action for LDCs.
Over the next few days, governments, agencies, multinational corporations, scholars, youth representatives and other stakeholders will concentrate on major challenges facing these countries. At the end of the meet, it is hoped that the Doha Programme of Action will be a blueprint to shaping the future of LDCs.
