Iraq Meets All Criteria For WTO Membership, Eyes Global Trade Role

In a significant stride towards global economic integration, Atheer Daoud Al Ghurairi, the Minister of Commerce of Iraq, has announced the completion of essential prerequisites for Iraq's accession to the World Trade Organisation (WTO). This announcement was made during his attendance at the 13th Ministerial Conference of the WTO. Al Ghurairi highlighted that Iraq has finalized its trade in goods and services files, aligning with the schedules set for integration into the international trade system.

Since submitting a request to join the WTO in 2004, Iraq has demonstrated a keen interest in becoming a part of the multilateral world trade system. Al Ghurairi underscored this move as pivotal for Iraq to regain a significant stance within the global economy. The minister also mentioned an upcoming meeting with Arab countries to discuss their experiences pre and post joining the WTO and to explore potential benefits.

The Minister of Commerce lauded the successful organization of the conference in Abu Dhabi, UAE, emphasizing its role in conveying the critical message of the importance of WTO membership. He pointed out that the conference serves as a platform for discussing the future of global trade amidst current challenges. Furthermore, Al Ghurairi shed light on Iraq's ambitions to bolster economic and trade relations worldwide, aiming to forge new cooperation avenues in these sectors.

This development marks a pivotal moment for Iraq as it seeks to enhance its position on the global stage by integrating into the international trade framework. The efforts towards economic reforms and improving the business environment underscore Iraq's commitment to fostering a conducive atmosphere for trade and investment. As Iraq moves closer to WTO membership, it opens up new horizons for economic growth and international cooperation.

With inputs from WAM