China Pledges Strong Support for WTO and Multilateral Trade Reform
Johannesburg, The Gulf Observer: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s firm support for the free trade system with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core and pledged continued backing for WTO reforms. Wang made these remarks on Friday during a meeting with WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg.
Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized China’s unwavering commitment to genuine multilateralism. He stated that China, as a founding member of the United Nations (UN) and a staunch defender of the current international order, firmly supports both the international system with the UN at its core and the free trade system underpinned by the WTO.
Noting the prevailing challenges of unilateralism and protectionism, Wang asserted that economic globalization remains an irreversible trend. He called on all parties to collaborate in advancing trade liberalization and facilitation while working towards global economic recovery.
China will continue supporting the WTO Director-General in driving reform, ensuring that the voices of Global South nations are heard, and keeping pace with contemporary economic trends, Wang said.
“China adheres to its position as a developing country, but it never shirks its international responsibilities,” he remarked. “We will continue to fulfill our obligations and demonstrate our responsibility as a major country.”
Okonjo-Iweala, in response, acknowledged China’s positive role in global economic affairs. She highlighted China’s achievements in poverty alleviation, rapid industrialization, and advancements in education, noting that these successes provide a model for other developing nations.
She further expressed the WTO’s appreciation for China’s commitment to resolving trade disputes through dialogue and consultation within multilateral mechanisms. She underscored the WTO’s anticipation of continued strong support from China in facilitating much-needed organizational reforms.
The meeting reinforced China’s position as a key advocate for multilateral trade cooperation and its commitment to fostering an inclusive and rules-based global trade order.
