Yemen Advocates for a Unified Arab Stance to Enhance Development in the Global Trade System

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The Republic of Yemen has emphasized the necessity of a coordinated Arab stance within the World Trade Organization (WTO) to enhance the Arab presence in the global trading system. This initiative aims to advance the interests of developing and least-developed countries, facilitating their integration into international trade.

These comments were made by Yemen’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Mohammed Al-Ashwal, during a preparatory meeting of Arab trade ministers held via videoconference. The meeting was attended by various Arab ministers and WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, highlighting the collaborative efforts among Arab nations in addressing trade issues.

Al-Ashwal commended the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its role in coordinating the Arab group’s positions within the WTO. He expressed gratitude for the initiative taken by Saudi Minister of Commerce Majid Al-Qasabi to convene the meeting, which he believes will strengthen Arab unity on matters related to international trade.

The minister pointed out the increasing global economic challenges that affect trade flows, supply chains, and food security. He underscored the urgent need for a more equitable and inclusive global trading system that prioritizes the needs of developing countries and supports their economic recovery and sustainable development.

Yemen, classified as one of the least-developed countries and a WTO member since 2014, faces significant economic and trade challenges due to the exceptional circumstances it has experienced. Al-Ashwal stressed the importance of enhanced international support and the development of stronger institutional and trade capacities for least-developed countries to enable them to take advantage of global trade opportunities.