The WTO’s MC12 will be held between June 12 and 15 in Geneva, Switzerland. Minister Wang Wentao of Commerce of China will attend the MC12.

In recent years, economic globalization has encountered headwinds, unilateralism and protectionism have been on the rise, the Appellate Body has been grounded to a halt and the authority and efficacy of the WTO have faced serious threats. At the same time, the severe situation of Covid-19 has brought challenges to the work of the WTO. All parties strongly hope that the WTO can resume normal operation as soon as possible, and promote the rules to keep pace with the times. At present, members are conducting intensive consultations on TRIPS waiver for COVID vaccines, pandemic response, fisheries subsidies, agriculture, food security, and other topics. They will also discuss the future work priorities of the WTO at the meeting.

China will actively participate in MC12, support the development of WTO reform in the right direction, support the inclusive development of the multilateral trading system, and support the legitimate rights and interests of developing members. China will unswervingly uphold true multilateralism, maintain the status of the multilateral trading system as the main channel for making international rules, and push for positive and pragmatic results of MC12 so that the WTO can play a greater role in addressing global challenges and promoting post-pandemic economic recovery. Thank you.