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Geneva confirms readiness to assist Belarus’ WTO accession

MINSK, 20 April (BelTA) – Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Makei met with Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala during his visit to Switzerland on 20 April, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“Vladimir Makei confirmed Belarus’ strong determination to continue the work on completing the negotiations on the accession to the WTO. He spoke about the work carried out by the government of Belarus in this direction and the current state of the negotiation process with the key member countries of the World Trade Organization,” the press service said.

It was noted at the meeting that Belarus is the largest economy among the states that are at an advanced stage of negotiations, and its early accession is in the interests of both the country and all WTO members.

The WTO director general thanked the Belarusian minister for the information provided and stated the importance of further expansion of the organization. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala supported Belarus' intention to join the WTO and confirmed the WTO Secretariat's readiness to continue providing the necessary assistance for that.

“The parties exchanged views on advancing the dialogue on the WTO reforms and preparations for the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference slated in November-December 2021. Vladimir Makei said Belarus was interested in participating in the event as an observer in the negotiations on new international rules in electronic commerce, simplification of investment procedures, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises. These areas are consonant with the priorities of the Belarusian government,” the press service added.

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