The 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) wrapped up on Saturday in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Among the key highlights was the commendation of China’s pivotal role in promoting a multilateral trading system.
Led by Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao, the Chinese delegation actively engaged in all consultations and negotiations, particularly on investment facilitation and fisheries subsidies. Their collaborative approach earned praise from fellow delegates, the host UAE, and WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
Director-General Iweala emphasized China's constructive participation, highlighting its unwavering support for the multilateral trading framework. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Trade and Chair of the conference, credited China’s active involvement as a significant factor in the conference’s success.
At the closing ceremony, WTO members adopted the Abu Dhabi Ministerial Declaration, which commits to fortifying the multilateral trading system and advancing WTO reform. The declaration also underscores the importance of development in the WTO’s agenda and aligns with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Additionally, the conference extended the temporary tariff exemption on e-commerce data transmissions for another two years, ensuring continued support for digital trade until the next Ministerial Conference.
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WTO chief hails China's support of multilateral trading system
cgtn.com
