Integrated Framework For Technical Assistance For Trade Development In Least Developed Countries - Mauritania

Abstract

The Integrated Framework (IF) was established by WTO trade ministers in 1996 to promote the integration of the least developed countries (LDCs) into the global economy.1 This was in response to the slow progress of the LDCs in successfully integrating into the world economy. Participating agencies include the WTO, the IMF, the International Trade Center, UNDP, UNCTAD, and the World Bank (WB). Progress in mobilizing donor support proved difficult, and the program started slowly. An independent review of the IF, completed in June 2000, highlighted the lack of linkages to overall development strategies or programs and the absence of donor resources. Following the meeting of the Heads of Organizations last summer, the IF was redefined to ensure better integration of trade with national development strategies and complemented by a trust fund for IF activities. A specific objective of the IF was to increase the benefits that Least Developed Countries (LDCs) derive from trade-related Technical Assistance (TA) made available to them by the international community.