News published on Globe Banner in March 2024

News from March 2024


WTO hosts discussion on women's role in global trade

An event titled "A joint conversation on women’s economic empowerment," hosted by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF) on March 26, showcased recent initiatives aimed at addressing gender inequality in trade and fostering women's empowerment.


Chamber of Digital Commerce urges U.S. government to act on behalf of American businessman detained in Nigeria

The Chamber of Digital Commerce has issued an urgent appeal in a blog post titled "Urgent Call to Action: American Citizen and Crypto Sector Worker Kidnapped by Nigerian Government". The Chamber is urging President Biden to "employ every diplomatic measure to ensure" the immediate release of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan. According to the Chamber's post, Gambaryan was invited to Nigeria under "false pretenses" and was subsequently detained without being charged with any offense.


WTO explores support strategies for least-developed countries transitioning out of status

WTO members convened on March 25, 2024, to discuss strategies for aiding least-developed countries (LDCs) in their transition from the LDC category. The meeting was part of the Sub-Committee on Least Developed Countries, where Ambassador Ib Petersen of Denmark noted, “It is very encouraging to see that WTO members have shown commitment to support a smooth transition for graduating LDCs.”


US criticizes Russia's approach in UN Security Council procedural vote

The United States expressed its disappointment over a procedural vote in the UN Security Council, describing it as "entirely predictable and avoidable."


U.S. Mission announces funding opportunity for LGBTQI+ refugee support in Ecuador

The U.S. Mission in Ecuador, in partnership with the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration (PRM), has announced an opportunity for funding through the Julia Taft Refugee Fund 2024.


UN General Assembly reflects on slavery legacy and systemic racism

The United Nations General Assembly recently held a meeting to commemorate the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.



TechCamp supports women leaders in tech through training and networking

Embassy Amman recently organized a TechCamp event from February 9-11, bringing together 50 alumni from the NEA region's TechWomen and TechGirls programs, along with 10 female students from Princess Sumaya University for Technology.


Kimer Med signs contract with Battelle Memorial Institute for antivral drug work

New Zealand-based biotech firm, Kimer Med, has announced a new contract for the development of antiviral drugs. The project is financed by the U.S.-based Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA).


United States outlines priorities for Global Digital Compact's development

The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the development of a Global Digital Compact (GDC) that is inclusive and respects human rights.


WTO members advance sixth review of sanitary measures agreement

WTO members have made progress in the Sixth Review of the Operation and Implementation of the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS Agreement). The discussions took place during a meeting of the SPS Committee from March 20 to 22, 2024. Members also addressed numerous trade concerns at this gathering.



US commits $49 billion for global water initiatives on World Water Day

Water plays a crucial role in fostering peace and is essential for various aspects of life, including food security, climate adaptation, clean energy transition, and health.


UN adopts landmark resolution governing artificial intelligence

Good afternoon, everyone, and thank you so much for being here.





BusinessEurope Reacts to EU Action Plan on Labour and Skills Shortages

BusinessEurope Director General Markus J. Beyrer expressed his organization's stance on the EU action plan on labour and skills shortages, recently unveiled by the European Commission. Beyrer welcomed the publication of the plan, emphasizing the severity of the issue by stating, "With labour and skills shortages hitting our companies and labour markets, we welcome today’s publication of the Commission action plan to address them. This challenge is structural and will be with us for the next generation."In addition to this, Beyrer highlighted the importance of addressing...



US envoy meets NGOs amid Sudan's escalating humanitarian crisis

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. Representative to the United Nations, held a meeting with representatives from non-governmental organizations based in Sudan.