The course will focus on the links between trade, investment, finance and development, including in the context of international trade negotiations.

Its aims are to:

1. Enhance the understanding of the interrelationships among these areas and their link to countries´ development strategies; and
   
   
2. Provide participants with knowledge and skills for the design and implementation of trade and development policies, as well as for trade negotiations corresponding to the needs and interests of their countries.

The course syllabus will draw on UNCTAD´s analytical work and the lessons learned from its technical cooperation activities, with input from the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, as well as national experts.

The course is mainly aimed at government officials in ministries and institutions dealing with trade, investment, finance and development issues, and involved in formulating and implementing national trade and development policies. Academics from research institutions and universities working on international economic issues are also encouraged to apply.

UNCTAD member States from economies in transition are invited to nominate qualified candidates, who will be examined by an UNCTAD selection committee.

Nominations will be accepted until 14 May 2010.

Member States and successful candidates will be notified of the selection committee´s decision by 21 May 2010.