Thematic session 3: Sustainable transport and connectivity, including rural areas and countries in special situations

Background
Documentation

Background

Livestream:

https://media.un.org/en/asset/k17/k177eome8g

This session will be based on the central idea that sustainable transport enables connectivity—connecting people to jobs, services, and one another, as well as facilitating trade at all levels and linking countries to global markets. Sustainable transport is a building block of human wellbeing and economic growth, and the session will feature good practices and ongoing challenges in both of these dimensions of sustainable development, particularly in the rural context and for countries in special situations. Countries in special situations, namely Least Developed Countries (LDCs), small island developing States (SIDS), and landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), as well as rural communities around the world, face myriad challenges as they pursue sustainable development, including geography, capacity, and economic constraints. A robust and accessible sustainable transport system is essential for them to overcome these challenges and to achieve the 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement.

Co-Chairs:

H.E. Mr. Liu Zhenfang, Administrator of National Railway Administration, China
Mr. Courtenay Rattray, UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States

Moderator:

Ms. Sheila Watson, Deputy Director, FIA Foundation

Panelists:

Mr. Danang Parikesit, Chairperson, International Forum for Rural Transport and Development
Mr. Omae Nyarandi, Executive Secretary, Northern Corridor, Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority
Ms. Christina Barstow, Chief Strategy Officer, Bridges to Prosperity, Bridges to Prosperity
Mr. Antonio H. Pinheiro Silveira, Corporate Vice President of Infrastructure, Development Bank of Latin America (CAF)
Mr. Luo Guosan, Director-General, Infrastructure Development Department, National Development and Reform Commission, China