LDCs commit to technology transfer and economic resilience

November 24, 2025 (MLN):  Two major outcomes were achieved to boost the world’s least developed countries (LDC) including  new guidelines to scale up UNIDO support through technology transfer and know-how, and a ministerial pledge to modernize industry, secure financing, and strengthen collaboration in line with the UN’s global development goals.

The Eleventh Ministerial Meeting of Least Developed Countries, held at the King Abdul Aziz Conference Centre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, brought together leaders from 44 of the world’s least developed nations., APP reported.

Basher Abdullah, advisor to Sudan’s Minister of Industry and Trade, emphasized the urgent need for peace before economic recovery: “First, we need to end the war.

Then, we have to restart the factories.” UNIDO Director-General Gerd Muller called for global solidarity and industrialization as a key step toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and reducing inequality.

The conference highlighted the challenges facing these nations, including conflict, climate crises, trade barriers, and cuts in overseas aid.

Muller warned that economic shocks threaten critical sectors such as textiles, leather, agribusiness, and equipment, which are vital for livelihoods and local economies.

UNIDO outlined ongoing initiatives to support industrial growth and resilience. In Bangladesh, garment factories have been trained to meet international standards, creating millions of jobs for women, while in Nepal, young people are gaining digital skills to bridge the technology gap.

In Sudan, the agency supports agribusiness, provides finance access for young people and women, and prepares the private sector for post-conflict recovery.

The Riyadh gathering marks a decisive step toward enabling millions in the world’s most vulnerable countries to participate in and benefit from the global economy.

The conference was convened by UNIDO in partnership with the UN Office of the High Representative for LDCs, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States (OHRLLS).

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