WTO roundtable highlights Oman's role in supporting multilateral trade system
Held in Muscat, the meeting emphasized the Arab region's growing presence in the global economic landscape by addressing key issues related to WTO accession. As one of the foremost international forums, the roundtable shed light on the challenges and opportunities tied to integration into the multilateral trading system.
In statements to Oman News Agency (ONA), officials and experts highlighted the WTO's role in strengthening member economies and fostering an attractive environment for trade and investment. They reviewed Oman's successful 25-year journey within the organization, noting its active role in technical coordination and sustained support among member states, which has helped drive investment-friendly policies.
They emphasized that Oman's hosting of this international event reflects its unwavering support for global cooperation efforts, reinforcing its position as a key platform for economic dialogue at regional and international levels. The discussions also underscored the importance of Arab economic integration, investment promotion, and the growing need for fair and inclusive trade mechanisms that align with aspirations for sustainable growth and balanced partnerships.
Dr. Saleh Said Masn, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion for Commerce and Investment, stated that the 13th WTO Roundtable's significance lies in fostering constructive dialogue and cooperation within the multilateral trading system. He noted that the roundtable served as a platform for exchanging views and experiences among WTO members, particularly as Oman has worked in recent years to modernize its legislative framework and business environment in line with WTO standards.
Masn stressed that Oman has not merely joined the WTO but has been an active contributor to its development, providing technical support to several countries—especially Arab states—in their accession efforts. He added that Muscat's hosting of the event coincides with the 25th anniversary of Oman's WTO membership, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening its role in the organization, advancing global trade integration, and supporting Arab nations' accession to the international trading system.
On his turn, Sheikh Khalifa Ali Al Harthy, Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Political Affairs, emphasized that WTO accession is a strategic milestone that opens broad horizons for growth and investment while enhancing competitiveness. He stressed the importance of fostering a more transparent and fair trade environment, enabling developing and emerging economies to actively participate in global markets and strengthen international partnerships.
He noted that public-private partnerships play a central role in achieving sustainable economic development, with the exchange of best practices and success stories helping aspiring nations overcome challenges and accelerate trade and economic reforms. He highlighted Oman's longstanding role in regional and international trade, leveraging its strategic geographic location and open economic policies.
Meanwhile, Pankaj Khimji, Advisor for Foreign Trade and International Cooperation at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, stated that Oman's WTO accession was a strategic milestone, enabling the nation to achieve numerous objectives, capitalize on opportunities, and enhance its economic standing.
He pointed out that Oman's investment environment has seen remarkable growth over the past 25 years since joining the WTO, with investments now exceeding $30 billion. These investments span diverse sectors, including food, logistics, oil and gas, and other areas that attract global capital.
He affirmed that Oman has signed multiple free trade agreements, creating an attractive and conducive investment environment backed by incentives and facilitations. The establishment of integrated industrial and free zones has also been instrumental in attracting investors across economic sectors, particularly in promising industries that bolster Oman's regional and international standing.
For her part, Hilda Ali Al Hinai, Secretary-General of the Arab-Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Geneva, emphasized Oman's vital role within the WTO, noting that its accession was a strategic step that supported the multilateral trading system and fostered a transparent, open investment climate.
She explained that Oman's active presence in the organization reflects its ambitious economic vision and commitment to expanding global trade relations, aligning with its plans for economic diversification and sustainable development.
Faisal Ali Al Hinai, Deputy Head of Oman's Mission to the WTO, highlighted the roundtable's importance as a high-level annual platform bringing together WTO members and aspiring nations. He noted Oman's initiatives in promoting Arab and international cooperation under the WTO's umbrella, solidifying its position as a hub for economic dialogue and trade diplomacy.
Yan Dong, Vice Minister of Commerce of the People's Republic of China, praised Oman's prominent role in the WTO, stating that the roundtable's convening in Muscat—coinciding with Oman's 25th accession anniversary—offered a unique opportunity to discuss accelerating other nations' WTO integration.
He commended Oman's rapid economic growth and sustained development, stressing the importance of trade flows and multilateral principles in enhancing global economic stability. China, he affirmed, stands ready to collaborate with all WTO members to safeguard and advance this system, contributing to global economic stability and shared development.
Ambassador Xiangchen Zhang, WTO Deputy Director-General, lauded Oman's active contributions to the organization, noting that its 25th accession anniversary marks an important occasion to reflect on achievements and future prospects.
He announced that the event compared Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members' economic visions and launched a joint Arab study highlighting best practices in completed and ongoing accessions. He also praised Oman's leadership in advancing economic diplomacy and regional prosperity.
He emphasized the importance of expanding WTO membership to strengthen global trade ties, commending Oman's contributions to economic integration and constructive collective action. He concluded by stressing the value of knowledge-sharing among members and welcoming Oman's hosting of such collaborative forums.
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