The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has achieved a significant milestone as Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister for Foreign Trade, was elected as the Chair of the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) 13th Ministerial Conference. This prestigious conference, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi in February 2024, will bring together representatives from 164 member countries and customs blocs that form the WTO. The conference’s primary focus will be on reviewing the global trading system’s performance, making decisions on future work, and charting the course for the next conference.
Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi’s Election as WTO Conference Chair
Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi’s election as the Chair of the 13th Ministerial Conference of the WTO represents a remarkable achievement for the UAE. It underscores the country’s growing influence on the global stage and showcases its dedication to international trade and cooperation. As the Chair, Dr. Al Zeyoudi will play a pivotal role in leading discussions among member nations, fostering dialogue, and shaping the future direction of international trade policies.
Thuraiya Hamid Alhashmi’s Historic Milestone
In another notable development, Thuraiya Hamid Alhashmi, the Director of International Financial Relations and Organizations Department at the UAE Ministry of Finance, has been appointed as a member of the Board of Directors and a Constituency Director at the New Development Bank (NDB). This milestone appointment marks the first time an Emirati and Arab woman assumes a Director’s position at the NDB. It is a testament to her expertise in international finance and development and reflects the UAE’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in global institutions.
UAE’s Commitment to International Cooperation and Sustainable Development
Both the election of Dr. Al Zeyoudi and the appointment of Thuraiya Hamid Alhashmi underscore the UAE’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and advancing sustainable development. The UAE has been actively engaged in various global forums, promoting dialogue and collaboration among nations to address pressing global challenges.
Preparations for the 13th Ministerial Conference
In preparation for the 13th Ministerial Conference, Dr. Al Zeyoudi held a meeting with the Director-General of the WTO, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. The focus of the meeting was to ensure smooth and productive discussions during the conference. The two leaders discussed strategies to review the performance of the global trading system and set future directions that would benefit all member nations.
Trade and Climate Policies Integration
The UAE’s dedication to fostering sustainable and green growth is evident through its efforts to integrate trade and climate policies. As a testament to this commitment, the UAE included trade as a thematic day at COP28 in Dubai. By doing so, the UAE emphasizes the need to align trade practices with climate goals, promoting a more environmentally responsible approach to international commerce.
About the WTO
The World Trade Organization is an international organization that facilitates trade negotiations, resolves disputes, and sets the framework for international trade between nations. Established on January 1, 1995, the WTO replaced the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). With 164 member countries and customs territories, the WTO is one of the largest international organizations.
