The World Trade Organization (WTO) has announced a contribution of SEK 27 million from Sweden, aimed at supporting least-developed countries (LDCs) in maintaining economic growth. The funds will be directed towards the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF), specifically to the newly established EIF Interim Facility. This commitment was confirmed during a meeting attended by Per-Arne Hjelmborn, the Director General for Trade Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ratnakar Adhikari, Executive Director of EIF.
The EIF is a collaborative entity comprising 51 countries, 24 donors, and eight partner agencies. Its mission is to work with governments, development organizations, and civil society to assist LDCs in leveraging trade for development and poverty reduction. The framework operates under structures such as a Geneva-based Steering Committee, a Board, and a Multi-Donor Trust Fund managed by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). According to information provided on the EIF's About webpage, it plays an essential role in promoting sustainable economic growth in LDCs.
Hjelmborn expressed his country's pleasure at contributing to the EIF Interim Facility. "Sweden is delighted to be contributing to the EIF Interim Facility as a testament of our long-standing engagement to sustainable trade and development of LDCs during this critical transitional period," he said in a press release issued by WTO. He further emphasized Sweden's commitment towards preserving and enhancing progress made so far while working collectively on future Aid for Trade mechanisms for LDCs.
Adhikari also commented on Sweden's generous contribution in the same press release. He said, "The EIF is profoundly grateful for Sweden's generous contribution, especially as we navigate this crucial transitional period." Adhikari stressed that this support is pivotal for sustaining efforts aimed at empowering LDCs which continue to grapple with persistent economic vulnerabilities and pressing developmental needs. He also highlighted Sweden's unwavering commitment to sustainable development and its role in promoting sustainable trade capacity development, with a focus on empowering LDCs to achieve inclusive growth, increased export capabilities, and broader market access.