Japanese FM Stresses WTO Reforms At MC13 In UAE For Global Challenges

The 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) of the World Trade Organization (WTO), set to take place in Abu Dhabi, has been highlighted as a pivotal moment for the organization to tackle global challenges and implement essential reforms. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa underscored the significance of this event, dubbed the "Reform Ministerial," which will see participation from 164 nations and trading blocs. The conference aims to deliberate on a variety of trade-related issues, with Kamikawa commending the United Arab Emirates for its pivotal role in hosting and its dedication to promoting free trade principles.

Japan and the UAE, being significant trading partners, are collaborating to bolster the rules-based multilateral trading system, with the WTO at its heart. Kamikawa pointed out the critical need for WTO reforms to better equip the organization in addressing contemporary challenges like climate change, supply chain disruptions, gender inequality, and digital trade barriers. She emphasized the importance of dispute settlement reform, strengthening the WTO's deliberative functions, and enforcing the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies as key reform areas.

Furthermore, Japan's support extends to initiatives such as the Joint Statement Initiatives on e-commerce and investment facilitation, aiming to modernize trade regulations. Kamikawa also highlighted Japan's commitment to aiding developing countries in their integration into the multilateral trading system and enhancing women's participation in digital trade. Japan's contributions include support for the Aid for Trade projects of the International Trade Centre and being the inaugural contributor to the WTO Fisheries Funding Mechanism.

The minister also welcomed extended support measures for least developed countries and anticipated the accession of Comoros and Timor-Leste to the WTO. Reflecting on Japan-UAE relations, Kamikawa noted the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations and their ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation across various sectors, including international trade. Japan appreciates the UAE's initiatives to establish robust legal frameworks for trade and is eager to resume negotiations for a Japan-GCC Free Trade Agreement.

In summary, the upcoming MC13 offers a crucial platform for addressing global trade challenges, advancing necessary reforms, and reinforcing the multilateral trading system. Both Japan and the UAE are at the forefront of these efforts, emphasizing inclusivity, sustainability, and free trade promotion as their guiding principles.

With inputs from WAM