DILI, 14 june 2024 (TATOLI) – Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão commends UNCTAD for its 2024 Strategy to Support Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Gusmão said that the 2024 UNCTAD Strategy is an important document that provides a framework for sustainable development, economic diversification, and resilience building.
“The UNCTAD SIDS Strategy demonstrates once again that UNCTAD is a trusted partner of the developing world,” the Prime Minister said in his speech at the 60th Anniversary of UNCTAD, Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland, on Wednesday.
Prime Minister asked UNCTAD to support developing countries in Africa that are rich in natural resources.
“We know that UNCTAD supports developing countries around the world. As a founding member of the g7+ group of fragile countries, we believe that UNCTAD must be provided with the resources to support fragile countries, most of which are in Africa,” Gusmão stressed. “We would ask the United Nations, and UNCTAD, to explore a better approach to provide support and assistance, so that we can open the door to peace and development in these fragile countries,” said Gusmão.
It is vital that UNCTAD has the political support needed to undertake its role and to chart a new model for international development.
“Timor-Leste wishes UNCTAD the very best into the future. We all look forward to continuing to work together for a better life for people around the world,” Gusmão said.
Gusmão also urged UNCTAD to support developing countries in facing new challenges.
“We have a world of growing conflict and disorder, where international law is applied selectively by the developed world. We have a climate emergency, caused by the industrialised countries, that impacts the developing world the most. And we have a global economy that is entrenching extreme inequality,” Gusmão explained. “UNCTAD’s 60th Anniversary provides an opportunity for us to discuss new approaches to tackle these challenges. This means asking how we can build a world economy that is inclusive and equitable.”
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
