Least developed countries (LDC)
Balanced global development is one of the European Union's objectives and focuses especially on the most vulnerable countries. The Union takes part in international initiatives to assist these countries and places its instruments at their disposal.
Some initiatives are directed at the least-developed countries (LDCs), the list of which is drawn up by the United Nations. Other initiatives are directed at the heavily indebted poor countries (HIPCs) and provide debt relief under the aegis of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.