WTO conference must reach Ministerial Declarations, CS Mohammed

Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Ambassador Amina Mohamed has urged World Trade Organization (WTO) members to grab the unique opportunity in Nairobi to conclude on pending trade issues.

Speaking during a joint press briefing with WTO’s Secretary General Roberto Azevedo, Ambassador Amina said the failure of the members to come up with a ministerial declaration would result to doing away with the World Trade Organization’s negotiations arm.

“If we don’t agree, there will be a change because collectively, the negotiating function of the WTO will be broken,” stated Amina. “We need to make those decisions here.”

Amina noted that the Multilateral Trading System (MTS) as represented by the WTO must be recognized for the valuable contribution that has led to growth and stability of many of the world’s economies over the past 20 years of its existence.

“2015 has been a momentous year for multilateral engagement. The recent success in Paris to agree a global deal to reduce carbon emissions and address climate change must provide the WTO Membership with inspiration to end 2015 on a high note,” said the Cabinet Secretary.

She further noted that the 10th Ministerial Conference of the WTO offers an opportunity for the WTO Membership to reflect on how to further strengthen and preserve a system that has served us ‘ably’.

“As Chair of the Conference, I have strongly urged all Members to further reflect upon their positions and show flexibility for a positive outcome here in Nairobi,” she said.

Amina further asked the delegated to embrace with a sense of urgency, the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement as it will streamline customs processes.

“I am extremely proud that Kenya has signed its Instrument of Acceptance just one week ago, it demonstrates the determination Kenya has to strengthen the Multilateral Trading System.”

WTO Director General Roberto Azevêdo said he was hopeful they will conclude some of the contentious areas successfully during the MC10.

“To succeed, all members will have to be realistic and flexible,” said Azevedo. “Members need to consider what they want from the system, we have a defining moment ahead of us.”

Azevedo noted that the conference would tackle issues that they have been trying to solve for over a decade.

“The benefits are available to everyone,” stated the Director General. “We have to regain the habit of negotiation and the habit of delivery.”

An estimated 7,000 delegates are in Nairobi over the next four days to attend the WTO’s 10th Ministerial Conference, the first to be held on African soil.