Geneva: Dr. Marwan Obaid Al Muhairi, a member of the Federal National Council Parliamentary Division in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and a member of the Steering Committee of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Parliamentary Conference, took part in the Committee’s 55th meeting. The meeting, held in Geneva, was attended by Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the WTO.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Al Muhairi, representing the UAE Parliamentary Division, highlighted key global trade issues scheduled for discussion at the forthcoming WTO Parliamentary Conference. These include strategies to support an inclusive and accessible global trading system that fosters shared prosperity, growth, and development, while ensuring sustainability and environmental friendliness in trade practices.
Dr. Al Muhairi emphasized the crucial role of parliaments in reinforcing global trade and coordinating efforts to create a resilient, fair, and innovative multilateral trade system. He stressed the importance of integrating technology and innovation into this system.
He also pointed out the significance of artificial intelligence and modern technologies in enhancing global trade, supply chains, and sustainable development. Addressing environmental and climate challenges was also highlighted as a priority.
The integration of emerging and developing economies into global trade was another focus, with Dr. Al Muhairi advocating for support to small and medium-sized enterprises. He called for achieving trade justice and evaluating the effects of protectionist and precautionary trade measures by states on the global trading system.
Furthermore, he stressed the necessity to fortify global supply chains to withstand unexpected shocks and crises related to food and energy security. Incorporating environmentally friendly standards and climate-change mitigation measures into trade agreements and national policies was also discussed.
The Steering Committee comprises approximately 30 representatives from various member parliaments of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the European Parliament, and other international organizations.