‘Funding of CHF 33,000 provided to assist Least Developed Countries’ involvement in MC13′

The United Kingdom (UK) has generously contributed GBP 30,000 (approximately CHF 33,000) to support government officials from least-developed countries (LDCs) in attending the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC13) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates from 26 to 29 February.

This contribution will assist in covering the travel expenses of government officials from LDCs participating in MC13. The funding will be allocated to the LDCs Trust Fund, specifically designated for each Ministerial Conference with contributions from multiple WTO members.

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala expressed gratitude for the UK’s generosity, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that the voices of LDCs are heard clearly in multilateral trade negotiations. This support aims to enable more people in these countries to benefit from the opportunities presented by international trade.

UK’s WTO Ambassador, Simon Manley, highlighted the country’s commitment to having all WTO members, regardless of economic status or size, actively contribute to shaping a global trading system that fosters economic benefits for all members. This includes facilitating attendance at significant decision-making events like Ministerial Conferences.

Over the past two decades, the UK has contributed approximately CHF 13.5 million (GBP 12.6 million) to various WTO trust funds, showcasing its long-standing dedication to supporting multilateral trade initiatives.