The World Trade Organization (WTO) recently concluded its Regional Trade Policy Course in Togo. The course, which included 20 modules and practical exercises, aimed to equip participants with tools to better understand and apply multilateral trade rules.
In a video message during the closing session, Bridget Chilala, Director of the WTO's Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation, emphasized the importance of technical assistance in supporting developing countries' participation in global trade. "Grâce à vos connaissances nouvellement acquises de tous les accords de l'OMC, nous sommes convaincus que vous aiderez vos gouvernements respectifs à mieux saisir les possibilités qu'offre un commerce ouvert, en particulier pour les pays en développement et pays les moins avancés," she stated.
Rose Kayi Mivedor Sambiani, Togo's Minister of Commerce, Handicrafts and Local Consumption, highlighted the significance of hosting this technical assistance activity. She urged participants: "Je vous exhorte, une fois de retour chez vous, à mettre à profit les connaissances acquises ici pour permettre à nos pays de participer plus significativement au commerce mondial."
Professor Mawulé Adama Kpodar, President of the University of Lomé, praised the collaboration between the WTO and the university. He noted the program's role in strengthening African officials' capacities in trade. "L'ouverture commerciale, la facilitation des échanges et l'intégration régionale sont des leviers essentiels de développement, et à travers ce cours, vous avez acquis des compétences cruciales pour contribuer à la mise en place de politiques efficaces," he told participants.
Participants acknowledged the value of the knowledge gained for promoting trade in their countries. Doha El Manouni from Morocco's Ministry of Industry and Commerce described the course as a unique experience that enhanced her understanding of legal instruments available to Members. Jycklan Pavlik Ibata Odiki from Congo's Ministry of Commerce said: "Je sors de ce cours totalement renforcé et outillé en ce qui concerne l'élaboration de politiques commerciales."