The General Council of the World Trade Organization (WTO), held in Geneva on 24 and 25 July, saw progress made on the reform of the organisation. Botswana’s ambassador, Athaliah Molokomme, who currently chairs the General Council, presented a clear roadmap for achieving results between now and the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC13) in Abu Dhabi at the end of February 2024.
The delegations took note of eight proposals for the reform of the organisation submitted by countries or groups of countries, including the EU (see EUROPE 13203/22, 13127/6). According to Ms Molokomme, these are helping to move the discussions forward.
The next meeting is on 25 September, when an informal meeting will be held specifically on WTO reform, as called for by the EU among others. This session will focus on trade and industrial policies.
The informal meeting of heads of delegation in October, followed by the meeting of senior officials convened by the WTO Director-General, will provide further opportunities to make progress in the discussions.
At this session, the aim will be not only to take note of progress, but also to take decisions on certain issues that may already be ready, and to adopt objectives and decision-making methods for MC13.
Several WTO members stressed the need to have material and results to discuss at the General Council in December.
Election of the Chairperson for MC13
On 24 July, WTO members also elected the UAE Minister of State for International Trade as Chairperson for MC13. It will take place from 26 to 29 February 2024 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. (Original version in French by Léa Marchal)