The Vientiane Asia-Europe regional meeting of landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) concluded on March 7 with the issuance of the Vientiane Consensus.

The document includes proposed solutions to tackle obstacles that LLDCs could face in the future, including difficulties in the development of transit transport policies, the promotion of transport efficiency, and the streamline of legal institutions.

It focuses on upgrading transport infrastructure systems to narrow infrastructure gaps, facilitating trade and transit, customs procedures, promoting tourism and regional integration.

The Vientiane Consensus will be submitted to an international meeting scheduled for early 2014.

During the three-day event, participants reviewed the implementation of the Almaty Programme of Action (APA) for landlocked developing countries, and in particular, four prioritised areas including transit policies, infrastructure maintenance and development, trade and international trade facilitation, and international support measures.

They agreed that cooperation and support from the international community is required to help LLDCs promote their economic integration with the globe.

Adopted in 2003 by the United Nations, the APA aims to address the special needs of LLDCs in a new global framework of transit cooperation for landlocked and developing countries.-VNA