In preparation for the Mid-Term Comprehensive Review of the Programme of Action for Least Developed Countries (LDCs), which will convene during the 2006 UN General Assembly, a ministerial meeting gathered from 5-8 June 2006 in Cotonou, Benin.

Anwarul Chowdhury, the UN High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States, addressed the opening session of over 100 LDC representatives, stating that, “Since 2001 [when the Third UN Conference of the Least Developed countries (LDC III) adopted the Programme of Action,] we have seen positive economic growth in many of the LDCs but that has not significantly impacted on the level of poverty.” He stressed the importance of increased focus on agriculture and infrastructure development, and improved governance at the local level and quality of aid, among other issues. The Ministerial Conference adopted a Cotonou Strategy and Ministerial Declaration for the Mid-term Comprehensive Review.
Links to further information
Cotonou Ministerial Meeting website, June 2006
Mid-Term Comprehensive Review web site, 2006
UN news release, 7 June 2006