Nurbek Maksutov, representing the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic in Geneva, participated in the 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization, which took place from March 26 to 29 in Yaoundé.
The ministry reported that the agenda of the event focused on the need to update and strengthen the WTO in the context of a changing global economy.
During the conference, emphasis was placed on promoting reforms within the organization, restoring a fully functioning dispute resolution system, as well as increasing transparency and inclusiveness. Participants discussed traditional topics such as agriculture and development issues, including special and differential treatment, as well as support for least developed and landlocked countries.
Additionally, new priorities such as e-commerce, streamlining investment processes, and environmental sustainability were also in focus, alongside issues related to fisheries subsidies.
Nurbek Maksutov emphasized the importance of the WTO in the face of increasing complexity and uncertainty in the global economy, stating that the organization continues to provide stability, predictability, and inclusive growth.
“In the context of geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and rising protectionist trends, the rules-based WTO system remains significant. Small developing countries, including Kyrgyzstan, need a platform for equal dialogue and protection of their interests,” he noted.During the discussions, Kyrgyzstan presented its vision for upcoming reforms, highlighting the need to strengthen the special and differential treatment (S&DT) regime, expand technical assistance and capacity-building programs, as well as improve access to the dispute resolution system for resource-constrained countries.
At the closing session of the conference, a draft Ministerial Statement on WTO reform was reviewed, which was prepared based on nine months of consultations among member states. Most participants, including Kyrgyzstan, supported this document.
“For Kyrgyzstan, the WTO is not only a platform for negotiations but also an important tool for ensuring international trade based on transparent and predictable rules. Restoring an effective dispute resolution system and creating a level playing field for competition remain key tasks of reform,” added Nurbek Maksutov.Thus, Kyrgyzstan expressed support for the draft Ministerial Statement and the accompanying work plan as key elements for further discussion on WTO reform.
