The Russian Federation's delegation, led by Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov, will participate in the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC-13) of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in the United Arab Emirates, as announced by the agency's press service.
"In anticipation of MC-13, Russia has actively engaged in the activities of all WTO working bodies and negotiating groups. With foreign trade dynamics shifting towards new markets and the establishment of ties with promising partners, the WTO retains its significance as a vital negotiation platform for Russia," highlighted the Ministry of Economic Development.
Key agenda items for the conference include discussions on WTO reform continuation, enhancement of dispute settlement procedures, and resolution of Appellate Body blockage. Additionally, topics such as extending the moratorium on customs duties for electronic data transfer, advancing agreements on electronic trade and investment facilitation for development, initiating negotiations in the agricultural sector, and addressing fish subsidies will be addressed. Furthermore, discussions will encompass the WTO compliance of the EU's border adjustment carbon mechanism.
The 13th Ministerial Conference will convene in Abu Dhabi, commencing on February 26, 2024.
The Ministerial Conference serves as the highest decision-making body of the WTO, typically held every two years. The 12th Ministerial Conference occurred in June 2022 in Geneva. Following the General Council's decision, the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference is slated to be held in Cameroon.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Federation Council
Based on materials from TASS