King Mswati III of Eswatini delivered a speech at the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. He expressed gratitude to the Government of Turkmenistan for the high level of organisation of the forum and noted that its agenda fully reflects the aspirations of the kingdom, according to IIC.

Addressing the Heads of States, UN representatives and international delegations, the King stressed that the lack of access to the sea is not just a geographical feature, but a serious challenge to development.

‘High transport costs and vulnerability to external shocks are slowing our progress, but these difficulties encourage us to think innovatively and seek opportunities for cooperation,’ Mswati III said.

According to the monarch, Eswatini is focusing on infrastructure development, railway modernisation, digital transformation and simplification of customs procedures. These measures are aimed at improving regional connectivity, reducing trade costs and increasing competitiveness.

In the field of innovation, Eswatini is actively developing a science and technology park, promoting biotechnology and digital solutions, expanding access to broadband and improving digital literacy. At the same time, electronic customs systems are being improved, which speeds up trade and promotes regional integration.

‘Partnership is the foundation of Eswatini's strategy,’ the King emphasised, adding that the country has already ratified the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation and, together with the World Bank, has launched a national trade information portal to facilitate business access to global markets.

In conclusion, Mswati III expressed confidence that international cooperation and regional infrastructure development would help landlocked countries turn their geographical constraints into new opportunities.