Abu Dhabi Gears Up To Host Influential WTO Parliamentary Conference Session

In a significant development for global trade discussions, the Federal National Council (FNC) is set to host the Abu Dhabi Session of the Parliamentary Conference on the World Trade Organisation (PCWTO) on 25th February, in collaboration with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the European Parliament (EP). This event marks a crucial step in parliamentary contributions to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), acting as its de facto parliamentary dimension. The conference is designed to unite legislators from around the world who have expertise in international trade and finance, aiming to foster parliamentary action that supports global trade beneficial for all.

The PCWTO sessions are an annual occurrence, strategically scheduled in conjunction with WTO Ministerial Conferences. The upcoming Thirteenth WTO Ministerial Conference (MC13) is slated for 26 to 29 February 2024 at the Abu Dhabi Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), further highlighting the UAE's pivotal role in global trade discussions.

Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the FNC, emphasized the significance of this event, stating it reflects the strong cooperation between the FNC and IPU. It also underscores the UAE's influential position within the WTO and its commitment to enhancing global trade and investment. Ghobash highlighted that this initiative aligns with the FNC's goals of fostering partnerships with international parliamentary bodies to discuss global issues and promote development, peace, stability, and sustainable growth.

The conference will kick off with an inaugural session featuring speeches by Saqr Ghobash; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade; and representatives from the EU, IPU, and WTO. This will be followed by an interactive dialogue titled "Abu Dhabi and beyond: Shaping and strengthening a multilateral trading system that delivers for all," engaging senior WTO negotiators and officials. Additionally, discussions will cover crucial topics such as "Trade and climate change: A win-win interaction" and "Digital trade in the era of resilient economies," aiming to address contemporary challenges in global trade.

Preceding this significant gathering, the 53rd session (in camera) of the Steering Committee of the PCWTO will take place on 24 February 2024, setting the stage for fruitful discussions during the main conference. This series of events not only showcases the UAE's leadership in facilitating important international dialogues but also reinforces its status as a key gateway for global trade and investment.

With inputs from WAM