Under the , a landlocked state is defined as one with no sea-coast. This includes countries bordering "landlocked seas" like the Caspian Sea (e.g., Kazakhstan), as these bodies of water do not provide direct access to the world’s oceans. About Landlocked Developing Countries - the United Nations
However, many landlocked countries have developed innovative solutions to overcome these challenges, such as: un landlocked countries
. Their mission is guided by major international frameworks designed to turn these "landlocked" countries into "land-linked" ones: The Almaty Programme of Action (2003): The first global effort to address the specific transit needs of LLDCs. The Vienna Programme of Action (2014-2024): A decade-long roadmap focused on infrastructure, international trade, and regional integration. The Gaborone Declaration (2024): Adopted ahead of the third UN Conference on LLDCs, it outlines new priorities for the next decade to foster "transformative partnerships." Current Efforts and Future Outlook Global partners frequently contribute to these programs to help bridge the gap. For instance, India has recently contributed $250,000 to the UN to fund reviews of LLDC programs, emphasizing their role as a vital transit partner for their landlocked neighbors. In Under the , a landlocked state is defined
Landlocked status directly hinders progress on: Their mission is guided by major international frameworks
The primary UN body addressing this issue is the UN Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS) . Established by the UN General Assembly in 2001, its mandate includes:
The stories of Ashgabat and Lhasa serve as inspiring examples for other landlocked countries, demonstrating that with creativity, perseverance, and cooperation, even the most seemingly insurmountable challenges can be overcome.
Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, and Lhasa, the capital of Tibet Autonomous Region in China, are two landlocked cities that couldn't be more different. Yet, they share a common bond – their geographical isolation.