Today, a gathering of global trade leaders underscored the necessity of revitalizing the World Trade Organization (WTO) to effectively address the needs of people worldwide through trade. The 13th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC13) in Abu Dhabi served as a platform for stakeholders to emphasize the importance of maximizing the multilateral trading system's potential, promoting socio-economic inclusion, and advancing the global green transition.
WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala urged member nations to demonstrate leadership, flexibility, and a spirit of compromise to achieve significant outcomes at MC13, highlighting the WTO's crucial role in ensuring stability and predictability in international trade.
In his address, H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Chair of MC13, emphasized the historical significance of the WTO in enhancing living standards and expanding trade opportunities globally.
Director-General Okonjo-Iweala commended the UAE's efficient organization of the Ministerial Conference, recognizing the nation's dedication to trade and its transformative impact on economies.
Reflecting on the success of the previous Ministerial Conference, Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the positive momentum within the WTO, highlighting the constructive atmosphere in preparatory discussions leading up to MC13.
At MC13, WTO members are striving to achieve tangible outcomes across various sectors, including fisheries subsidies, agriculture, WTO reform, development, e-commerce, services, and investment facilitation. Additionally, discussions on gender and environmental issues are on the agenda.
During the opening session, the accessions of Comoros and Timor-Leste, both least-developed countries, were adopted, underscoring global confidence in the WTO and the multilateral trading system.
Furthermore, there was a notable acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, signaling governments' commitment to ocean sustainability.
MC13 also includes deliberative sessions on trade and sustainable development, and on trade and inclusion, providing platforms for constructive engagement on contemporary economic issues and the future of trade policy.
Despite geopolitical and economic challenges, trade remains resilient, serving as a critical tool for achieving national and global priorities, including growth, economic opportunities, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
The importance of upholding multilateralism and strengthening the WTO as it approaches its 30th anniversary was emphasized, recognizing its pivotal role in facilitating global trade and fostering economic prosperity.
In line with the MC12 practice, trade ministers and heads of delegation submitted pre-recorded and written statements, reaffirming their commitment to advancing trade objectives and strengthening international cooperation.
