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India Stresses Developing Country Flexibility and Trade Focus at WTO Conference
India conveyed its perspective at the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Abu Dhabi. The Indian delegation, headed by Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal, emphasized the necessity for flexibility in existing agreements to aid developing countries in overcoming challenges in their industrialization efforts.
The delegation underscored the need for developing countries to have sufficient policy space to address longstanding concerns that have yet to be resolved. They expressed reservations about combining well-established development issues, such as policy space for industrial development, with newer topics like 'Trade and Industrial policy'.
India argued that discussing issues like Gender and MSMEs within the WTO might not be practical, as these matters were already under consideration in other relevant international organizations.
During the session on sustainable development and policy space for industrialization, India advocated for maintaining the focus of WTO discussions on trade-related matters and avoiding the inclusion of non-trade issues. They highlighted the importance of preventing the fragmentation of the multilateral trading system.
India also shared its approach to sustainable living, emphasizing traditions and values of conservation and moderation. They mentioned the LiFE initiative ('Life Style for Environment') as a mass movement aimed at combatting climate change.
Additionally, India expressed serious concerns about the rising use of trade protectionist unilateral measures, especially those justified under the guise of environmental protection. The delegation urged for a careful balance between trade policies and environmental concerns to ensure fair and sustainable global trade practices.
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