The World Trade Organization (WTO) is currently conducting a regional trade policy course in Saudi Arabia. This initiative involves experts from the WTO Secretariat, regional institutions, and King Saud University who will share insights on various topics such as tariff schedules, agriculture, trade remedies, services, intellectual property rights, e-commerce, and fisheries subsidies. The course aims to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among participants.
WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala addressed the participants via video message. She noted that "these regional trade policy courses were set up over 20 years ago to address the realities and interests of member economies across various regions." Okonjo-Iweala expressed hope that the course would also provide a platform for discussions on strengthening and modernizing the multilateral trading system. She emphasized that this conversation is crucial as representatives work in Geneva to ensure the organization remains relevant amid emerging challenges.
Additionally, Okonjo-Iweala urged all WTO members to ratify the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies promptly due to its importance for sustaining ocean resources.
Dr. Abdullah Alsalman, President of King Saud University, highlighted how hosting this WTO initiative aligns with "Saudi Vision 2030," which seeks economic diversification through international cooperation: “Our effort to host this WTO initiative is part of our university’s contribution to achieving the goals of 'Saudi Vision 2030'. More than ever, this vision seeks to strengthen the nation’s cooperation with the WTO and boost international trade. Saudi Arabia is both a benefactor and a beneficiary of a prosperous and regulated global economy.”