Lithuania has contributed EUR 20,000 to the World Trade Organization's Global Trust Fund, aiming to support developing economies and least developed countries (LDCs) in enhancing their trade skills. The fund finances approximately 280 activities annually, providing training at both national and regional levels in areas such as agriculture, services, and trade facilitation. Over two decades, nearly 2,800 activities have been organized under this initiative.
Raimondas Ališauskas, Lithuania's WTO Ambassador, emphasized the importance of fair and inclusive trade amid growing geopolitical tensions. He stated: “In light of increasing geopolitical tensions, the need for fair and inclusive trade is more important than ever. Lithuania's contribution to the WTO Trust Fund demonstrates our dedication to a multilateral trade system that benefits everyone, supports developing countries and enhances resilience against global uncertainties.”
WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala expressed gratitude for Lithuania's commitment to an inclusive trading system. She remarked: “This contribution shows Lithuania's commitment to an inclusive trading system that brings economic benefits to people across the world. I thank Lithuania for helping government officials improve their skillsets to make better use of the multilateral trading system, helping increase the gains from trade for people at home and abroad.”
Over nearly 20 years, Lithuania has donated a total of CHF 450,000 (slightly over EUR 480,000) to the WTO Global Trust Fund.