‘SCED participates in the 13th Ministerial Conference at Abu Dhabi (including pictures)’

The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr. Algernon Yau, recently participated in the 13th World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference (MC13) in Abu Dhabi, UAE. During the conference, Mr. Yau emphasized the importance of the multilateral trading system in promoting sustainable development globally.

He highlighted the significance of integrating developing economies, especially small and vulnerable ones, into the international trading system to improve societal well-being. Mr. Yau also mentioned the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, which aims to promote environmental sustainability.

Apart from participating in the plenary sessions, Mr. Yau engaged in bilateral meetings with key officials from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Panama to discuss mutual interests. He also attended an event marking the finalization of the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement, which aims to enhance investment flows through transparent and predictable rules.

The Agreement, if successfully integrated into the WTO, will be the first plurilateral agreement added since the establishment of the organization in 1995. Mr. Yau is expected to continue attending meetings at the MC13 to further discuss global trade and economic development initiatives.

The conference and Mr. Yau’s participation highlight Hong Kong’s commitment to furthering sustainable development and international cooperation. The event signifies a significant step towards fostering economic growth and ensuring a level playing field for all countries involved.

The meetings and discussions at the MC13 are crucial in shaping international trade agreements and policies that will benefit economies worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates on the outcomes of the conference as Mr. Yau continues to represent Hong Kong on the global stage.