Message of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual World Trade Organization’s 13th Ministerial Conference (WTO MC13) | Department of Trade and Industry Philippines

01 February 2024 | via recorded message

The Philippines congratulates the Government of the United Arab Emirates for hosting the WTO’s 13th Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi.

We look forward to welcoming our newest Members, Comoros and Timor- Leste, to this Conference.

Amid complex global challenges, this gathering is an opportunity for the WTO and its 164 Members to dissect and prioritize issues with the ultimate goal of tackling the most urgent and foundational concerns. Hence, we hope to see progress in addressing food insecurity, climate change, and trade-related challenges, such as inclusion and industrial policy.

Following MC12, we have devoted considerable effort to conducting the second phase of the fisheries subsidies negotiations. We remain equally focused on making strides in other essential areas, including WTO reform, e-commerce, and agriculture, all while keeping the critical development aspect at the forefront of these discussions. I am optimistic that we can chart a definitive course toward trade and sustainable development through our collective exchange of perspectives and ideas.

There is much work to be done, and the Philippines remains committed to working with fellow members and delivering concrete outcomes expected of the WTO. ♦

Date of release: 01 February 2024