ABU DHABI: The 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) of the World Trade Organization (WTO) has started in Abu Dhabi, gathering trade ministers and senior officials from across the globe, local media reported on Monday.
The four-day event serves as a platform for discussions on international trade rules and regulations, bringing together representatives from 175 Member States, private sector leaders, NGOs, and civil society organizations. The aim is to collaborate towards fostering a more efficient, sustainable, and inclusive trading system.
Ministerial Conferences represent the highest decision-making body of the WTO, offering vital forums for member states to address trade challenges, refine rules, and set the agenda for global trade policy.
Building upon the progress made during MC12 held in Geneva in June 2022, where significant advancements were achieved in areas such as fisheries subsidies, food security, and e-commerce, MC13 will prioritize enhancing the access of developing countries and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to the global trading system. Additionally, discussions will also focus on intellectual property and WTO dispute resolution mechanisms.
The conference will also facilitate greater collaboration and partnership with non-governmental organizations, the private sector, and civil society through a series of side events.
The WTO, which was established in 1995, oversees international trade rules. Its biannual Ministerial Conference serves as its paramount decision-making forum, convening ministers and senior officials from all member states to review and update regulations shaping the global trading landscape.
WAM/APP
