Preparatory Event for the 4th UN Conference on the LDCs between May 9-13, 2011

The purpose of the conference was to focus on the STI development model and policies for LDCs, and also sharing strategies regarding LDCs with relevant international organizations before the Fourth UN Conference on the LDCs, which will be held in Istanbul, Turkey after 10 years, in between May 9-13, 2011.

Since the role of science, technology and innovation for removing the barriers beyond the development of LDCs and to provide sustainable development is vital, STI must be recognized and emphasized during the 4th UN Conference for LDCs as a separate agenda item. In that respect, the development partners are encouraged to share their experiences and best practices on STI Policies during interactive sessions under five thematic topics: “The Role of STI in the Development of LDCs”; “Challenges and opportunities for LDCs for STI Development”; “Diaspora Networks & LDCs”; “Linking Science Policy to the Mechanisms of Development Aid”.

This event will be composed of presentations and views of the participants from LDCs, the experts and the representatives of non-governmental organizations. Therefore, “Senior Officials” from all LDCs and from the relevant International Organizations will take part in this consequential initiative.

As a result of the discussions, a conclusion report both summarizing the meeting and indicating the roadmap to be followed by the stakeholders will be prepared. This report will be shared with all the participants in the main conference which will be held and with the relevant international organizations, and international media in order to mobilize the international and regional organizations and member states, create awareness and share strategies between all the participants.