DG Okonjo-Iweala has urged members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to continue advancing work in trade and development, particularly in integrating Least Developed Countries (LDCs) into global trade. She acknowledged the progress made but emphasized that more efforts are needed due to current trade dynamics offering new opportunities. "Challenges are mounting, though trade has been resilient. There are also opportunities to integrate LDCs into global trade and we should not let these opportunities pass us by. Let's work together to ensure results," she stated.
She highlighted ongoing efforts on agriculture negotiations and noted that 86 members have ratified the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, urging others to complete the process swiftly.
The event saw participation from around 70 delegates from LDCs and their development partners who discussed revitalizing WTO's trade and development talks, exploring challenges faced by LDCs in global supply chains, digital trade participation, and facilitating a green transition.
General Council Chair Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway emphasized the importance of reinvigorating the WTO's Committee on Trade and Development and making Aid for Trade more effective in addressing current challenges. He remarked, "Today's South-South Dialogue is particularly timely in paving the way towards a successful development retreat next year."
Ambassador Kadra Ahmed Hassan of Djibouti, Coordinator of the LDC Group, stressed the need for greater integration of LDCs into global trade systems. She mentioned that "implementation of trade facilitation measures, digitalization of import and export transactions are among the factors that can help LDCs grasp opportunities in global supply chains." She also called for continued support for developing digital ecosystems within LDCs.
China's Ambassador Chenggang Li reiterated China's commitment to supporting WTO's developmental work. He expressed encouragement from recent outcomes at MC13 and affirmed China's dedication to achieving further pragmatic development outcomes at MC14.
The South-South Dialogue on LDCs and Development forms part of China's initiative under its LDCs and Accessions Programme aimed at enhancing LDC participation within the multilateral trading system. Currently, there are 45 recognized LDCs; 37 are WTO members while five others are undergoing accession processes.
Further details about this event can be found through available resources.