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WT/GC/M/ 200 
21 October 2022 
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General Council  
25-26 July 2022  Original: English  
 
 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
HELD IN THE CENTRE WILLIAM RAPPARD AND IN VIRTUAL FORMAT ON 25-26 JULY 2022 
Chairperson : H.E. Mr. Didier Chambovey (Switzerland)  
 
The Chair and the Director -General bade farewell to Ambassador Gloria Abraham Peralta (Costa 
Rica); Ambassador Harald Aspelund (Iceland); Ambassador Vesna Batistić Kos (Croatia); 
Ambassador Stephen de Boer (Canada); Ambassador Dagfinn Sørli (Norway) and Ambassador 
Elisabeth Tichy -Fisslberger (Austria)  and expressed appreciation for their valuable contribution 
during their time as Permanent Representatives.  
 
Subjects discussed1: 
 
1  REPORT BY THE CHAIR OF THE TRADE NEGOTIATIONS COMMITTEE AND                
REPORT BY THE DIRECTOR -GENERAL  ................................ ................................ ..............  2 
2  IMPLEMENTATION MATTERS FROM MC12 MANDATES  ................................ ..................  2 
3  IMPLEMENTATION OF THE BALI, NAIROBI AND BUENOS AI RES OUTCOMES – 
STATEMENT BY THE CHAIR  ................................ ................................ ............................  38 
4  WORK PROGRAMME ON SMALL ECONOMIES – REPORT BY THE CHAIR OF THE 
DEDICATED SESSION OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRADE AND ENVIRONMENT  ....................  42 
5  COMMITTEE ON BUDGET, FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION – REPORT ON            
MEETINGS OF 5 MAY 2022 AND 24 MAY 2022  ................................ ...............................  46 
6  PARAGRAPH 8 O F THE MINISTERIAL DECISION ON THE TRIPS AGREEMENT           
ADOPTED ON 17 JUNE 2022 – DOCUMENT WT/MIN(22)/30 (MINISTERIAL DECISION         
ON THE TRIPS AGREEMENT OF 17 JUNE 2022) – REQUEST FROM SOUTH AFRICA,            
INDIA, INDONESIA, EGYPT, PAKISTAN AND AR GENTINA ON BEHALF OF THE                       
CO-SPONSORS OF IP/C/W/669/REV.1  ................................ ................................ ..........  48 
7  TRADE RELATED CHALLENGES OF THE LEAST DEVELOPED COUNTRES AND WAY 
FORWARD – REQUEST FROM DJIBOUTI ON BEHALF OF THE LDC GROUP ........................  60 
8  PROPOSED GENERAL COUNCIL DECISION ON PROCEDURES TO ENHANCE 
TRANSPARENCY AND IMPROVE COMPLIANCE WITH NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS 
UNDER WTO AGREEMENTS – ALBANI A; ARGENTINA; AUSTRALIA; BRAZIL; CANADA; 
CHILE; COLOMBIA; COSTA RICA; THE EUROPEAN UNION; ICELAND; ISRAEL; JAPAN; 
REPUBLIC OF KOREA; LIECHTENSTEIN; MEXICO; REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA;             
MONTENEGRO; NEW ZEALAND; NORTH MACEDONIA; NORWAY; PARAGUAY; PERU;           
THE PHILIPPINES; SINGAPORE; SWITZERLAND; THE SEPARATE CUSTOMS             
TERRITORY OF TAIWAN, PENGHU, KINMEN AND MATSU; THAILAND;                                                  
UNITED KINGDOM; THE UNITED STATES; AND URUGUAY  ................................ ..............  67 
9  STRENGTHENING THE WTO TO PROMOTE DEVELOPMENT AND INCLUSIVITY – 
COMMUNICATION FROM THE AFRICAN GROUP, CUBA, INDIA AND PAKISTAN  ...............  78 
 
1 The proposed agenda was circulated in document WT/GC/W/ 853. WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  10  WAIVERS UNDER ARTICLE IX OF THE WTO AGREEMENT  ................................ ..........  85 
10.1  Review of Waivers pursuant to Article IX:4 of the WTO Agreement  ................................ ..85 
10.1.1   Least -developed Country Members – Obligations under Ar ticle 70.8 and Article 70.9 of            
the TRIPS Agreement with respect to Pharmaceutical Products, granted on 30 November 2015             
until 1 January 2033  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 85 
10.1.2   Kimberley process certification scheme for rough diamonds, granted on 26 July 2018 
through 31 December 2024  ................................ ................................ ................................ 85 
10.1.3   Canada – CARIBCAN, granted on 28 July 2015 until 31 December 2023  ........................ 85 
10.1.4   European Union – Application of Autonomous Preferential Treatment to the                
Western Balkans, granted on 28 July 2021 until 31 December 2026  ................................ ......... 85 
11  WTO PENSION PLAN MANAGEMENT BOARD – ELECTION OF A MEMBER  ...................  86 
12  OTHER BUSINESS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 87 
12.1  Chairmanship of the Committee on Agriculture in Special Session –                                  
Statement by the Chair  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......87 
12.2  Statement by the Chair in connection with Administrative Measures for Members                    
in arrears  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 87 
ANNEX 1 – STATEMEN TS BY MEMBERS AT THE INFORMAL HODS MEETING                                
HELD ON 7 JULY 2022  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 89 
ANNEX 2 – JOINT DECLARATION BY ARGENTINA, BRAZIL, COLOMBIA, COSTA RICA, 
GUATEMALA, PERU AND URUGUAY ON SUSTAINABLE FISHING FOR AN AMBITIOUS 
PROTECTION OF THE OCEAN  ................................ ................................ ........................  125  
 
1  REPORT BY THE CHAIR OF THE TRADE NEGOTIATIONS COMMITTEE AND REPORT BY 
THE DIRECTOR -GENERAL  
2  IMPLEMENTATION MATTERS FROM MC12 MANDATES  
2.1.  The Chair said that, in the spirit of ensuring an efficient conduct of business, he proposed that 
the General Council took up Items 1 and 2 together and open the floor only once. In this context, 
he recalled the comprehensive discussion that had taken place at the H oDs on 7 July convened by 
the Director -General and him, with forty-eight delegations taking the floor. He therefore did not 
expect a long discussion under those Items that day. He invited delegations to intervene if they had 
something to add. He also noted  that all statements2 made on 7 July would be reflected in the 
Minutes of this General Council meeting, unless a delegation advised otherwise. In this regard, 
delegations that had not yet submitted their statements to the Secretariat were invited to do so  as 
soon as possible.  
2.2.  The Director -General  and Chair of the Trade Negotiations Committee  delivered the following 
report3: 
2.3.  Let me first say a good morning to all of you and join the GC Chair in extending a warm 
welcome to new Permanent Representatives. It  is literally a warm welcome. It is so warm in Geneva. 
I think the weather is cooperating in making sure you feel at home. You are arriving here at a 
significant moment in the WTO's history – only weeks after Members overcame years of deadlock 
and successf ully delivered 10 multilateral outcomes at MC12.  But I hope you have come prepared 
 
2 At their request, the statements on the 7 July Informal Heads of Delegation meeting provided by the 
following delegations: the statements made by Brazil; Botswana; Australia; Jamaica (ACP); Indonesia; Cabo 
Verde; Malaysia; Nicaragua; Cameroon (African Gro up); Switzerland; Singapore; China; Cambodia; Chile; 
Bangladesh; Mexico; Colombia; European Union; Ecuador; South Africa; Nepal; Barbados (CARICOM); Japan; 
India; Nigeria; Chinese Taipei; Russian Federation; Vanuatu (Pacific Group); Paraguay; Tunisia; Türk iye; El 
Salvador; Canada; The Philippines; Antigua and Barbuda (OECS); Peru; Zimbabwe; New Zealand; United States; 
Chad (LDCs); Costa Rica, Plurinational State of Bolivia; United Kingdom; Kazakhstan; Egypt; Uganda; Bolivarian 
Republic of Venezuela and Pana ma are included as part of the Minutes of th is General Council meeting  and can 
be found in the Annex of this document.  
3 The report was also circulated in JOB/GC/31 5. WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  for hard work. Far from resting on our laurels, we now have to implement the new agreements. And 
we need to build on the momentum from MC12 to find ways to deliver results i n other areas, such 
as the longstanding agriculture reform mandate, WTO Reform and other areas of interest to 
Members.  
2.4.  Turning now to my report as TNC Chair and Director -General, since the May session of the 
General Council, I updated delegations at the S pecial GC in June before MC12 and then at the 7th of 
July Informal HODs that I convened together with the GC Chair. My reports from these meetings 
were circulated to delegations in documents JOB/GC/312 and JOB/TNC/104, respectively.  
2.5.  Since the HODs, I have  continued my outreach to Leaders, Ministers and stakeholders. We 
have welcomed Leaders and Ministers at the WTO – H.E. Prime Minister José Ulisses Correia e Silva 
of Cabo Verde and H.E. Finance Minister H ồ Đức Phớc of Viet Nam – with their respective dele gations. 
I likewise met Mr. Houlin Zhao, the Secretary General of the ITU and participated in a meeting of 
G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors. I also recently attended the Fourth Mid -Year 
Coordination Meeting of African Union leaders in Lusak a as an invited guest along with H.E. President 
Charles Michel, President of the European Council. I want to let you know that, at this meeting, 
President Michel profusely thanked the WTO for the outcomes of MC12 in front of the African 
Presidents. Togethe r with Ambassador Adamu Abdulhamid (Nigeria), I also met with the Minister of 
State Industry, Trade and Investment in Nigeria to discuss follow -up on MC12 outcomes and next 
steps.  
2.6.  Excellencies, I can report that I continue to be heartened by expressions of  support for the 
WTO for the work that the Ministers and yourselves did to achieve the outcomes at MC12. The 
reception at the African Union meeting was very warm. I would really like to express my thanks to 
the AU Ambassadors and to the Africa Coordination . H.E. Ambassador Salomon Eheth (Cameroon), 
I would ask you to convey back to the African Union our appreciation for the warm welcome for the 
WTO and the follow -up the Presidents and the African Union have promised to do on the outcomes 
of MC12. At the sam e time, delivering results last month has generated expectations for more in the 
future.  
2.7.  On fisheries subsidies, as I said at the Informal HODs, while adopting the new Agreement at 
MC12 is indeed an historic achievement, we cannot afford to sit back as th e Agreement can begin 
delivering only once it is in force. The urgent situation of the oceans and our fisheries makes it 
imperative to get this done as soon as possible. This means that each Member has to take action in 
accordance with its own system to fo rmally accept the Agreement and deposit its Instrument of 
Acceptance with the Secretariat, that is, with me as the WTO Depositary. To this end, the certified 
copies of the Agreement in all three languages were distributed to all Members last week. So, I as k 
you again today to rapidly examine and execute your domestic processes of acceptance. In many 
cases this will be a simple administrative procedure that can be done quickly, while in other cases it 
may be a bit more complicated, so starting right away is really important. And I know and appreciate 
very much that some of you have already begun this work. I was heartened in my own country to 
find that the Ministry has already made strong steps towards starting this process. The sooner we 
receive acceptances from the critical mass of two -thirds of Members, the sooner the Agreement will 
enter into force and start delivering its benefits to Members and to our oceans. We normally take 
quite a long time to ratify agreements here , but I am hoping that, in this case , given the urgency of 
the situation, we should target months not years to get this done. Of course, the Secretariat stands 
ready to provide advice and technical assistance on this, as needed. And for technical assistance 
and capacity building, we also are  working hard to set up the Fisheries Funding Mechanism. We are 
engaging with the CBFA on next steps. DDG Ellard has also been briefing the CBFA on this issue.  
2.8.  Leaders and Ministers have likewise recognized the importance of the TRIPS Decision. In 
particul ar, in Lusaka I heard the priority being placed by the African Union on extending the waiver 
compromise to diagnostics and therapeutics as COVID -19 continues to spread across the continent 
and the world. I understand that this issue will be taken up under Items 2 and 6 of this GC meeting 
and I look forward to the discussions.  For my part, I would like to encourage delegations to work 
expeditiously towards a mutually agreeable solution.  
2.9.  Food security remains a vital issue and the WTO has been praised for the  MC12 Declaration 
and the World Food Programme Decision. In this regard, I want to refer you to the 15 July Joint 
Statement on the Global Food Security Crisis by the Heads of the FAO, IMF, World Bank Group, WFP, 
and WTO in which we highlighted the need for  short-term and long -term actions in four areas: WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  (i) providing immediate support to the vulnerable, (ii) facilitating trade and international supply of 
food, (iii) boosting production and (iv) investing in climate -resilient agriculture. We have just 
witnes sed the recent signing of an agreement to send Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea. We 
were heartened by this agreement and hope that it will work especially for the 378 million people 
going hungry in the world. We also look forward to this agreement fac ilitating trade in fertilizers and 
other inputs. We are strongly keeping our fingers crossed that this  hopeful sign that we see  will 
manifest itself in practical terms. I call on all Members to work together to ensure that the WTO 
continues to effectively contribute to addressing the current food crisis – including by implementing 
the MC12 Declaration on Emergency Response to Food Insecurity and the MC12 Decision on the 
World Food Programme. I hope our monitoring and transparency efforts can help Members ke ep to 
the agreements and the decisions that they have made.  
2.10.   We need to use this support and momentum by continuing our efforts to revitalize and 
reinvigorate all of the WTO's core functions – so that we can remain fit for purpose in a changing 
global econo my, and continue to deliver more for people around the world. I understand that the 
GC Chair will say more in his statement about the way forward on the MC12 mandate on WTO 
reform.  
2.11.   At this stage, I simply want to reiterate the need to develop common unders tandings about 
what reform is, build on that and act with a sense of urgency – including in resolving the Appellate 
Body issue – a matter that many Leaders have raised. At this juncture, I want to express thanks to 
the United States for the outreach its do ing at the technical level on this particular issue. Let us not 
forget that an organization that is "fit for purpose" is one that is responsive to its Members in 
addressing the most pressing issues.  
2.12.   The final area I want to touch upon is agriculture. As y ou all know, Members could not agree 
on the draft text proposed by the CoA SS Chair. Also, w e could not make head way with the revised  
text which we sent on for Ministers to consider at MC12. New thinking, as we said at the last Informal 
HODs, is therefore required to break the stalemate in these negotiations which commenced in 2000.  
In this regard, if you recall, I had proposed the idea of a retreat after the summer break. I hope that 
we will go forward to organize this retreat because it looks li ke it has the support of many Members. 
We hope this will help to catalyse new ideas and new thinking. We also understand that the Cairns 
Group will be organizing its own retreat. We want to thank them. This will also help them catalyse 
new approaches and n ew ways of trying to do business in agriculture. It will be most welcome. We 
will be announcing the time for the other retreat in due course once we have had a good discussion 
with the GC Chair and with other Members.  
2.13.   At this point, with your indulgence C hair, let me invite Ambassador Peralta – CoA SS Chair to 
say a few words on the recent CoA SS meeting and also provide her reflections as outgoing Chair.  
2.14.   Ambassador Gloria Abraham Peralta (Costa Rica), Chair of the Committee on Agriculture in 
Special Sessi on, delivered the following report4: 
2.15.   As many of you are aware, today is my last General Council meeting.  Therefore, I would like 
to make a brief report on the last CoA SS meeting and share with you some reflections on the way 
forward.  
2.16.   The CoA SS meeting took place last Thursday, 21 July.  As it was the first meeting since MC12 
and also my last as the Chair, its main purpose was to report on MC12 and discuss the way forward. 
My full report to the CoA SS will be circulated to all Members shortly.  
2.17.   Many Membe rs acknowledged the success of MC12. It demonstrated WTO's ability to deliver 
results for people across the world, including with the adoption of an historic agreement on fisheries 
subsidies. In the area of agriculture, it also showed that Members are able  to adopt timely responses 
to current challenges, by adopting the Declaration on the Emergency Response to Food Insecurity 
and the Decision on WFP Food Purchases  Exemption  from Export Prohibitions or Restrictions . 
2.18.   At the same time, while we rightly celebra te the outcome of MC12, many Members regretted 
that the Conference did not deliver on the agriculture negotiations. Unfortunately, the remaining 
 
4 The report  of the CoA SS Chair can be found in Annex 1 of document JOB/GC/315.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  gaps on several critical issues could not be narrowed in time. As a result, there is still considerable 
work to  be done in the agriculture negotiations, which started more than 20 years ago, to further 
reform agricultural trade.   
2.19.   The positions and priorities expressed regarding the substance remained the same, which was 
to be expected only one month after the Minis terial Conference.  In the interests of time, I will not 
repeat them here as you are all familiar with them. Nevertheless, many Members who spoke called 
for new approaches, new ways of thinking and new ways of negotiating. They also stressed the need 
for a change in the dynamics of the negotiations and a common negotiating objective.  
2.20.   In short, there seems to be a broad understanding that the way of negotiating needs to 
change, while maintaining the crucial principles of inclusiveness and transparency.  In ad dition, the 
way in which negotiations resume in the coming months would be important, as it will set in motion 
the trajectory of negotiations towards the next Ministerial Conference.  
2.21.   In this context I would like to provide some reflections on post -MC12 wor k that could guide 
future work if Members consider them helpful:  
a. Evidence -based negotiations remain crucial to building trust and taking informed decisions: 
Therefore, as much as possible, more accurate and timely information should be submitted 
to the Secretariat, whether as notifications or as responses to the questionnaires, taking 
into account the different capacities of Members. In this respect, I support initiatives such 
as the Domestic Support tool put forward by Canada and other Members. Organizi ng events 
with outside speakers on issues of relevance can also be useful.   
 
b. Do not throw out the champagne with the cork: Do not throw away the good work done, 
but instead build on it going forward. There is a goldmine of ideas that has been put forward 
which could be of use to Members as they seek to make progress.  
 
c. Focus on the big picture: The big picture includes old and new challenges such as food 
security and climate change, therefore also changing policy objectives and policies. There 
are different trade -offs that may have to be made, notably for the limited use of natural 
and financial resources. Focusing on one concept or policy tool only will make us miss the 
big picture. One member suggested a helpful question to ask: if the AoA was being written  
today what should it look like?  I think this is a perfect question to reflect on during the 
summer holidays.  And finally,  
 
d. Find and use different ways to brainstorm and work with each other: In this respect, I 
support the idea of a retreat to brainstorm i deas and consider the different issues under 
negotiations from new angles. But it should also look at our negotiating processes; what 
works, what does not  work, and why; and what other avenues could be explored.  
 
2.22.   But the words will not suffice.  As the very  à propos  Nigerian proverb goes: "Fine words do 
not produce food."  I agree - we need more actions and less words.  
2.23.   This proverb provides me with a perfect transition to my concluding part. As it is my last 
meeting, I would like to conclude by thanking you, the DG for your leadership and actions that were 
crucial for the agricultural outcome at MC12. I would also like to thank all Members for their work 
and support over the past two years. These two years been very enriching and rewarding. I am very 
pleased with the results of MC12 and confident that Members will be able to deliver an agricultural 
outcome soon.   
2.24.   I would like to acknowledge the hard work of the Secretariat team. I appreciate their support  
so much . And last but not least, my gratit ude goes to  my mission team, who have worked twice as 
hard to enable me to fulfil my commitment to the CoA SS process.  Thank you all.  
2.25.   The Director -General  and Chair of the Trade Negotiations Committee  continued her report5: 
 
5 The report was circulated in  document  JOB/GC/31 5. WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.26.   Thank you, Gloria. Let me again  commend you for your excellent work and contributions  and 
wish you G odspeed. I am sure it is  not "au revoir" but  "à bientôt". As you have said, we need to find 
a dynamic way forward so that we can start a culture of delivering results. I totally support y ou in 
your plea not to throw away the champagne with the cork. People have been waiting for more than 
two decades , as you noted,  for this Organization to deliver on agriculture. If we put our minds to it, 
we can deliver. And we will deliver.  
2.27.   In line with the Rules of Procedure, I understand that the GC Chair will take up the matter of 
the Appointment of the next CoA SS Chair. In this regard, I would urge all Members to participate 
constructively in the process. If Members are serious about delivering on ag riculture, your first test, 
at least for me, is how quickly you can agree on a Chair. I hope you will demonstrate seriousness 
about taking this issue forward by helping the GC Chair to come to a quick conclusion on this so we 
can move forward.   
2.28.   Now, before  I end, I would like to make two announcements. First, as you know, we will be 
having the Global Review on Aid for Trade later this week from 27 to 29 July. The theme for this 
year's Global Review, the 8th held since 2007, is "Empowering Connected, Sustain able Trade". These 
four words run through the 53 sessions that begin already today with a pre -event programme looking 
at trade policy and gender equality this lunchtime.  
2.29.   This topic of women's economic empowerment runs directly through several other session s 
and I expect will be touched on in many others. The reports that we will launch on Wednesday also 
paint an encouraging picture on how women's empowerment is being taken forward in Aid -for-Trade 
programming.  
2.30.   This is one of the insights from the joint OEC D-WTO monitoring and evaluation exercise that 
I will be presenting in publications launched by the WTO and OECD on Wednesday morning. These 
reports will look at how COVID -19 has changed the needs of developing countries and 
least-developing countries. They  also examine where the more than USD 556 billion disbursed in 
AfT support since the initiative started in 2006 has been spent.  It will look at gaps and areas where 
we could be doing more – like digital connectivity, sustainability and more.  
2.31.   The Global Rev iew is an important opportunity to deepen the discussion of how to take 
implementation forward of areas where we delivered outcomes at MC12, like fisheries subsidies.  And 
areas we know that we will have to address like climate change. What we are going thr ough now 
with respect to climate change should be a serious eye opener for us all and we should all be putting 
our minds as to how trade can be part of the solution to this problem – which I am convinced it can. 
I look forward to your participation this we ek and to working with you on empowering connected  
and sustainable trade. 
2.32.   Second, once we return from the summer break, the WTO will again be organizing the Public 
Forum from 27 -30 September. The theme this time is, "Towards a sustainable and inclusive 
recovery: ambition to action". Many topics will be taken up such as leveraging technology for an 
inclusive recovery, delivering a trade agenda for a sustainable future and framing the future of trade. 
Many Members have proposed and will be running interesting  sessions at the Public Forum. I want 
to thank you for your enthusiasm and your participation in this. I invite everyone to mark this Public 
Forum on their calendar. You are going to see some interesting and different things at the forum – 
a little bit dif ferent from what we used to do before. So, I would really like all of you to actively 
participate in the discussions.  
2.33.   The Chair  delivered the following report6: 
2.34.   I will now deliver my own statement under Item 2 – Implementation Matters from MC12 
Mandates. I see this as a forward -looking item. We had a rich MC12 follow -up and stock -taking 
discussion at the recent Informal HoDs meeting on 7 July. The onus is now on us to continue the 
good work, build on the success of MC12 and ensure that we impleme nt the Ministerial mandates.  
 
6 This report was circulated in JOB/GC/31 6. WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.35.   Let me also note that, under Item 3 of today's agenda, we will follow up on the implementation 
of previous Ministerial Decisions – i.e., the Bali, Nairobi and Buenos Aires - some of this follow -up is 
also flowing from MC12.  
2.36.   As I had mentioned in my report on 7 July in JOB/GC/314, we have a long to -do list ahead of 
us. In this regard, I would like to refer you once again to the useful Secretariat -prepared table, 
contained in RD/WTO/13. Let me stress that the content of the table  is without prejudice to Members' 
views and positions, and it does not interpret any of the MC12 mandates.  
2.37.   I wish to positively note that work is continuing following MC12. Some WTO bodies have 
already met and possible follow -up and implementation work on  MC12 mandates for the second half 
of this calendar year have been discussed, including in the Committee on Agriculture, the SPS 
Committee, the TRIPS Council and the Council for Trade in Goods – to name a few. This is 
encouraging, and I take this opportuni ty to thank the Chairs for their efforts and hard work in helping 
Members ensure the effective implementation of MC12 mandates. We should do what it takes to 
sustain the momentum.  
2.38.   I therefore would like to encourage relevant WTO bodies to establish work p lans based on 
MC12 mandates that could serve as yet another useful tool in our implementation pursuit.  
2.39.   Looking beyond the summer break, I intend to hold consultations on a range of matters, 
including: (i) WTO reform; (ii) e -commerce work programme and mor atorium; and (iii) the venue 
and date of MC13. That said, there will be also other matters on which I will undertake consultations, 
including vacant chairmanships.  
2.40.   Let me say a few words on the WTO reform mandate contained in paragraphs 3 and 4 of the 
MC12  Outcome Document. Paragraph  3 contains the "launching pad" for Member -driven, open, 
transparent and inclusive reform discussions. It also stipulates that the General Council and its 
subsidiary bodies conduct the work, review progress, and consider decisio ns, as appropriate, to be 
submitted to the next Ministerial Conference. As you know, there is a footnote clarifying that this 
does not prevent groupings of WTO Members from meeting to discuss relevant matters or making 
submissions for consideration by the General Council or its subsidiary bodies. In paragraph 4, 
Ministers specifically acknowledged the challenges and concerns with respect to the dispute 
settlement system, including those related to the Appellate Body. Ministers recognized the 
importance and urgency of addressing those challenges and concerns and committed to conduct 
discussions with the view to having a fully and well -functioning dispute settlement system accessible 
to all Members by 2024.  
2.41.   In terms of organizing our work, I recalled on 7 Jul y that there are already submissions 
referring to WTO reform, and some specific proposals in some areas, that were tabled to the General 
Council and its subsidiary bodies by Members or groups of Members before MC12. I would like to 
invite Members to reflec t, including during the Summer break on how to organize this work when 
we resume - in light of the current mandate. This is precisely what I will be looking for in my 
consultations in September.   
2.42.   Let me say a few words on the e -commerce work programme and moratorium. As I mentioned 
at the 7 July HoDs meeting, Members need to engage intensively on this matter, in line with the 
MC12 mandate. In that respect, it is worth noting that discussions have already begun particularly 
at the recently held meetings of t he Council for Trade in Goods (CTG) and the Committee on Trade 
and Development (CTD). You will recall that the MC12 Decision called for the reinvigoration of the 
Work Programme particularly in line with its development dimension. It is therefore encouragin g 
that discussions were held at the CTD and that there was a general recognition of the need to address 
the digital divide. It is also worth noting that one of the main themes of the upcoming Aid for Trade 
review this week is digital connectivity. With res pect to work in other bodies, it is my understanding 
that the Council for Trade in Services (CTS) will continue its discussions and work towards developing 
a work plan on the implementation of the MC12 mandate. I count on all Members to actively engage 
on this matter. I intend to consult after the summer break, including on how best to organize our 
work to ensure complementarity between the work of the respective bodies and that of the General 
Council.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.43.   Concerning the venue and date of the Thirteenth Minist erial Conference, I wish to recall that 
the Republic of Cameroon and the United Arab Emirates have both offered to host the next Ministerial 
Conference. As for the possible timing of MC13, Ministers gave us an indication. I will therefore 
consult on these matters on a priority basis after the summer break. The sooner we are in a position 
to take a decision , the better. This would: (i) afford sufficient time for the prospective host to 
prepare, and (ii) help Members manage the implementation of MC12 outcomes in an effective and 
result -oriented manner.  
2.44.   Also on an implementation matter from MC12 mandates, and a s part of the WTO's response 
to the COVID -19 pandemic, Ministers adopted a Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS Agreement 
(WT/MIN(22)/30). This decision aims to improve the capacity of developing country Members to 
produce and supply COVID -19 vaccines to othe r eligible Members. In paragraph 8 of that instrument, 
it was agreed that within 6 months of the Decision, Members would decide on its extension to also 
cover the production and supply of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics. In this context, I 
understand  that the TRIPS Council has already begun discussions under this mandate at its formal 
meeting on 6 July 2022, and that the Chair of the Council for TRIPS, Ambassador Gberie, has invited 
Members for an additional informal open -ended meeting to continue wor k on this topic in September. 
Let me note that we have an item on this issue on today's agenda (Item 6) - entitled "Paragraph 8 
of the Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS Agreement", as requested by the proponents of 
IP/C/W/669/Re v.1. 
2.45.   Before opening the floo r, let me also recall that, in my report on 7 July, I highlighted several 
suggestions from Members related to the scope for improvement to better prepare and conduct 
future Ministerial Conferences. Lessons learned, so to speak. If any delegation has any fu rther 
suggestions in this regard, my door remains open.  
2.46.   Without a doubt, we are looking at a very busy second half of the year. In preparation, I 
encourage group coordinators and delegations to already start thinking about these matters. As 
General Council  Chair, I continue to stand ready to help Members carry the work of this Organization 
forward, and I propose we take stock again at the next regular meeting of the General Council in 
October.  
2.47.   With this, I open the floor under Items 1 and 2. I understand t hat the Chair of the Council for 
TRIPS wishes to make a statement under this item, so I will give the floor first to H.E. Ambassador 
Gberie.   
2.48.   H.E. Ambassador Lansana Gberie (Sierra Leone), Chair of the TRIPS Council  delivered the 
following statement : 
2.49.   Under  this item on "Implementation Matters from MC12 Mandates" , I wanted to briefly report 
under my own responsibility , how the TRIPS Council has been following -up on relevant Ministerial 
instructions from MC12.  
2.50.   Let me focus on arguably the most important Deci sion within the framework of the 
TRIPS  Council: the Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS Agreement (WT/MIN(22)/30). You may recall 
that this was one of the very last Decisions made by the MC12, so fraught were the negotiations 
leading to it. This Decision is a tailored and targeted outcome that helps Members to work together 
to build up and diversify vaccine production capacity, and to provide a streamlined avenue of 
exporting this production to countries in need, directly or through international humanitarian  
programmes.  
2.51.   Chair, as you mentioned, at a formal TRIPS Council meeting on 6 July 2022, Members began 
their discussion of paragraph 8 of the Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS Agreement, which provides 
that: "No later than six months from the date of this Decision, Members will decide on its extension 
to cover the production and supply of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics ". The purpose of the 
meeting  we held  was to share ideas on how best to approach this matter to conclude it within the 
timeframe mandated by the Ministerial Decision , which is  no later than 17 December  2022. 
2.52.   In the lively discussion, most Members who took the floor emphasized strongly that th e 
negotiation process on this question should be conducted in an open, transparent and inclusive 
manner, and that all Members needed to be heard on the development of any outcome. Many WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  Members reiterated that equitable access to therapeutics and diagnostic s is critical to helping detect 
new COVID -19 cases and new variants, emphasi zing the urgency of this extension.  
2.53.   As regards the process going forward, in a room document distributed just before the meeting 
began, the TRIPS waiver proposal co -sponsors sugge sted an indicative schedule for intensive 
meetings in the coming weeks and months, including meetings still during July and proposed a report 
to the General Council at its present meeting. Other Members indicated that domestic consultations 
with relevant s takeholders were  still ongoing, and that additional time was needed for factual market 
analysis regarding diagnostics and therapeutics, and to obtain appropriate negotiating mandates, 
before they could engage substantively. A number of Members also saw no necessity or procedural 
basis for a formal report to the General Council at this point.  
2.54.   Those Members made clear that they would be ready to engage in a more focused and 
constructive manner after the summer break. Some of those Members  also flagged the im portance 
of evidence -based negotiation. You may recall from the negotiations leading to and during MC12 
that certain Members said they did not yet have a mandate to consider covering diagnostics and 
therapeutics, and that they would need time for discussio ns in their domestic arena to obtain such 
a mandate.  
2.55.   The only important point of convergence during the discussions was that the process leading 
towards a Decision on this matter must be open, inclusive and transparent and should allow all 
Members to be h eard. As is customary, the TRIPS Council had a small group preparatory meeting a 
few days prior to the formal meeting. Some delegates expressed their displeasure at that meeting 
about what they described as a lack of transparency  and inclusiveness . 
2.56.   I under scored in my concluding remarks on the matter that it is important that meaningful 
discussions take place as soon as all delegations are ready to engage on the substance of this issue, 
which suggested a resumption of discussions after the summer break. I a lso, recalling the 
importance of bilateral and small stakeholder engagements during the past negotiations, urged 
delegations that are ready to engage to start discussions in such settings to explore options, while 
others complete their consultations to eng age constructively. I encouraged Members to individually 
report any progress at this General Council meeting.  
2.57.   In order to take stock of such engagement, and to continue the discussion in an open, 
transparent and inclusive setting,  I have invited delegatio ns to an informal open -ended meeting of 
the TRIPS Council on 16 September 2022. I am hopeful that, by that time, all Members will be ready 
to engage in meaningful discussions, including on how the  TRIPS  Council should approach its work 
and complete its tas k no later than 17 December 2022.  
2.58.   Regarding other relevant follow -up from MC12, the TRIPS Council noted paragraph 24 of the 
Ministerial Declaration on the WTO Response to the COVID -19 Pandemic and Preparedness for Future 
Pandemics  (WT/MIN(22)/31) . As instr ucted therein, the  TRIPS  Council will continue its exchanges 
on COVID -19-related experiences in the field of IP as it has done since June 2020, and would 
welcome any proposals that Members may make in this regard.  
2.59.   Furthermore, as instructed by the Decisio n on TRIPS Non -Violation and Situation Complaints 
(WT/MIN(22)/26) – the TRIPS Council continues its examination of the scope and modalities for such 
complaints under the TRIPS Agreement with a view to making recommendations to MC13.  
2.60.   Finally, as Ministers f urther extended the Work Programme on Electronic Commerce 
(WT/MIN(22)/32) – which includes instructions for the TRIPS Council – I reminded Members of the 
TRIPS Council's mandate in this regard and foreshadowed relevant reports to be submitted for 
periodic reviews by the General Council.  
2.61.   Chair, I understand that there is an Item focused on the TRIPS Council, my sympathy is 
obviously not neutral but as Chair of the TRIPS Council, I will allow the discussions to go on and we 
will take this matter on 16 September 2022 in an informal open -ended setting. This concludes my 
intervention under this item.  
2.62.   The Chair  reminded delegations that a comprehensive discussion had already taken place on 
7 July and that the statements of that meeting would be reflected in the Minutes of the regular WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  General Council meeting, unless otherwise advised by any delegation. He invited  delegations to take 
the floor if they had something to add.  
2.63.   The representative of Norway  delivered  the following statement:  
2.64.   Since we did not take the floor in the special meeting on 7 July, I would like to make the 
following statement – trying to be "forward looking " as requested by you, Chair. First of all, Norway 
would like to join others in the celebration of the positive results achieved at MC12. The agreement 
reached on fisheries subsidies is an achievement of tremendous significance – for global mari ne 
resources, and most importantly for the people depending on those resources – in this generation 
as well as future generations. Our first task is to make sure that the agreement can enter into force 
as soon as possible. We should all give the highest pr iority to initiate and complete the necessary 
procedures at the national level. I would make a specific call to those Members who are not fisheries 
nations and therefore may not feel the urgency as others do: Please do not wait to deposit your 
instrument o f acceptance, because we need everyone onboard . Then, we are all aware that the job 
is not finished and that we need to fulfill all parts of the mandate in SDG 14.6. We need to develop 
and agree on efficient disciplines on subsidies that contribute to over capacity and overfishing. We 
need to start this work immediately after the summer break. Years of negotiations have shown that 
we are not able to agree on clear -cut, absolute prohibitions of the most harmful subsidies. MC12 
showed us that some developing M embers cannot accept clear exceptions for small fishing nations. 
On this background, we suggest that we , this fall , concentrate on redrafting former paragraph 5.1.1, 
so that on the one hand the demonstration of the effects of measures does not create a loo phole for 
some, while at the same time makes 5.1.1. accessible to all.  
2.65.   Another priority issue for Norway in the follow -up of MC12 is WTO reform. Restoring the 
dispute settlement system is fundamental, and we welcome the informal conversations that have 
been initiated recently. At some point, however, we need to complement this conversation with a 
more formalized process. We have, after all, committed to "having a fully and well -functioning 
dispute settlement system accessible to all Members by 2024 ". We al so need to improve the WTO 's 
monitoring and deliberative functions, including enhancing transparency and improving the work of 
WTO committees. This work has already been going on for some time, including through the initiative 
under agenda item 8 of today 's meeting. We want the WTO to function efficiently in its daily work. 
We want to give Members the opportunity to have those substantial and interactive discussions that 
can lead to a common understanding of the benefits and costs of trade and trade -related  reforms. 
Furthermore, we need to change and strengthen the WTO 's negotiating function so that we together 
can respond to the economic and trade realities of the 21st century. As others have pointed out, if 
deals cannot be made within the WTO, they will be  made somewhere else. This will inevitably result 
in some Members falling outside of the deals being made, and the universal character of the rules -
based system will be lost.  Finally, how to operationalize special and differential treatment is among 
the key questions related to future negotiations. The principle of S &DT is firmly embedded in the 
WTO rulebook. Norway, for one, does not put this into question. There is, however, not one single 
pre-defined operational S &DT modality that can be applied horizo ntally to every subject under 
negotiation. S &DT modalities must be negotiated, but they cannot be negotiated in the abstract. 
They must be negotiated in a specific context. Special and differential treatment is about finding 
practical and pragmatic solutio ns to specific development challenges.  
2.66.   Chair, "The end is near " – both for this statement, as well as my term in Geneva. It has been 
a privilege to represent my country and to work with so many competent and dedicated people from 
all over the world. A spe cial thank you to you, Director -General, for your energy and your 
compassion, your broad perspective on the role of this Organization and on the role of trade as an 
engine for social and economic development. Thank you also for your kind words this morning . I 
would also like to thank our four DDGs for your contributions and your willingness to serve this 
Organization and us as Members. I would like to thank  the Secretariat staff for all its efforts. Since 
I have had the honor to serve as Chair of two commit tees, I would like to thank the teams that 
supported me in those roles – in the CBFA and the TRIPS Council. Your professionalism, your 
dedication and your loyalty deserve our most sincere respect and gratitude.  Thank you also to my 
team of colleagues at th e Mission of Norway for all your support and hard work. Finally – to my 
colleagues - permanent representatives and delegates. We may disagree profoundly when discussing 
a specific file on the table, but we – or at least most of us – are still united in our  belief in a higher, 
common purpose. This house is full of friends of the system and dedicated supporters of the rules -
based, multilateral trading system. This makes me full of hope that the end is not near, but rather 
that a new dawn is in the coming.  To those of you leaving, and to those of you staying , thank you WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  for your support, your cooperation, and your friendship, and all the best of luck in your future 
endeavors. I will continue working on trade policy, so before you know it , I will be back . 
2.67.   The rep resentative of Cameroon , on behalf of the African Group , delivered  the following 
statement:  
2.68.   The African Group would like to, once again , commend the efforts of all that led to the success 
of the Twelfth Ministerial Conference. We wish to  underline the commendable commitment  and 
efforts  of the Director -General who spared no time and energy to facilitate understanding and 
agreement among Members. The African Group welcomes the exemplary contribution of yourself, 
Chair, and all Members. It is also important to  learn lessons and move forward on the outstanding 
issues. We therefore thank the Director -General for her report and take note of the e lements 
contained therein. We shall examine it and possibly suggest ways of facilitating the formal sessions 
of the Trade Negotiations Committee, to advance long overdue negotiations on topics of importance 
to our Group such as Development and Agriculture.  The Group thanks the Secretariat for the 
preparation and circulation of document RD/WTO/13 which compiles the outcomes of the MC12 
outcomes, identifying  the issues that require action and the bodies that could follow  up. This 
illustrative table makes our task easy and would deserve to be supplemented  with some elements 
that Members would consider important, if necessary. Indeed, it should be emphasized that this 
table could be seen as the new compass for our work and priorities as well as for our mandate. 
However, it is important to note that the MC12 outcomes did not extinguish the pre -existing 
mandates, such as the one relating to a permanent solution on public stockholding for food security 
purposes. Hence, we need to keep an open mind and do our best to  move forward on all issues of 
interest. To this end, the African Group will, as usual, make its determined contribution to the 
success of our work in all areas , including agriculture, development, intellectual property, SPS, and 
e-commerce. Subsequently, we call on all Members to work together constructively to forge a 
mutually beneficial future.  
2.69.   The representative of Brazil  delivered  the following statement:  
2.70.   Thank you, Chair, for the document RD/WTO/13 containing issues to be tackled from the 
outcomes we reached at MC12.  Brazil sees the document as a contribution to our collective reflection, 
not as a guiding tool or a precise roadmap. The priorities for our post -MC12 work, as far as Brazil is 
concerned, are in the longstanding issue on which w e did not manage to reach an agreement at 
MC12  – agriculture, and in another issue on which we did reach a consensus in the Outcome 
Document  – WTO reform.  Let me stress three brief points I have raised a few days ago . First, it is 
time for the WTO to look beyond old  controversies, old issues and old concepts that can no longer 
lead to consensus. Post -MC12 is an opportunity to tackle how international trade can truly contribute 
to issues such as development, food security and sustainability.  Second, the lack  of a specific 
outcome on agriculture at MC12 is a result in itself – it marks the end of a cycle and the beginning 
of a new stage for agriculture negotiations. The old negotiating architecture and the old concepts 
inherited from the Doha Round do not serv e anymore as the guiding principles for MC13. The only 
point of consensus we have in agriculture is Article 20 of the AoA – and that is the only mandate we 
all need to stick to for a fresh start. We must take advantage of this clean slate in agriculture to  
reflect on the necessary conceptual modernization of the agricultural negotiations. This conceptual 
modernization will comprehend, among other things, an assessment of how the two main topics of 
the agricultural negotiations – domestic support, including PSH, and market access – will be dealt 
with under new parameters.  Third, on reform, we need to discuss how negotiations can effectively 
deliver, including through new and flexible multilateral  avenues . We also have committed to conduct 
discussions with a v iew to having a full and well -functioning dispute settlement system accessible to 
all Members by 2024. Brazil has presented a proposal on annual Ministerials, as a way to, among 
others, increase the effectiveness and responsiveness of the WTO.  The key word  we use is to 
"de-dramatize" Ministerials.  This is a decision we should take as soon as possible at the General 
Council.  This notwithstanding, for some issues , we see value in the content provided in the 
document, such as fisheries subsidies. We have achieved an important , remarkable  outcome, but 
we still have work to do in the  areas of  overcapacity and overfishing. It is of the utmost importance 
that Members en gage constructively in negotiations to improve the Agreement, particularly in these 
issues.  Brazil is ready to resume our work and contribute to build the necessary consensus towards 
MC13.  
2.71.   The representative of Colombia  delivered  the following statement:  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.72.   We would like to draw Members' attention to the recent joint declaration by several Latin 
American countries at the  UN Ocean Conference  in Lisbon.  In it, Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, 
Guatemala, Peru, Uruguay and my country, Colombia, committed to the prom pt ratification of the 
Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies and to the prompt implementation of its provisions, even before 
the Agreement enters into force.  Taking into account the sustainability criterion that guides this 
Agreement, we believe that time is ag ainst us, so we must redouble our efforts to bring the 
Agreement into force as quickly as possible and begin to adapt and implement its provisions at the 
national level as soon as possible. On our side, we want to report that we have already initiated the 
procedures for ratification of the Agreement in our Congress and our Constitutional Court, and we 
have already started the regulatory preparations to adopt it, properly implement it and bring our 
subsidy programmes into line with the new rules.  We encourag e all Members to rally behind this 
initiative and to do likewise in their respective jurisdictions. It is now our duty. In the written version 
of this statement, which we will send to the Secretariat, we will include the full text of the joint 
declaration issued in Lisbon in the framework of the above -mentioned Conference.7 Let me conclude 
by thanking the Chair and the Secretariat for the summary paper on matters pertaining to the 
implementation of the decisions of the Ministerial Conference. It is a very useful document. We must 
build on the momentum and maintain the vigour with which Members acted at the Ministerial 
Conference and for which they are to be congratulated.  
2.73.   The representative of Malaysia  delivered  the following statement:  
2.74.   On agenda item 2, Malaysia wishes to register our appreciation, once again, to Madam 
Director -General, and you Chair for the successful MC12 outcomes. Both of you have steered WTO 
towards achieving tangible outcomes. This shows that the WTO is still relevant to gove rn the 
international trading system today.  Malaysia was actively engaged in the negotiations and supportive 
of the constructive role of Members in achieving the landmark agreement on fisheries subsidies, 
WTO response to the pandemic, food security, e -comme rce moratorium, and the mandate for the 
work on WTO reform.  Allow me to briefly touch on some of these outcomes . On fisheries subsidies, 
we welcome further guidance from  the Director -General , and the Chair of the Negotiating Group on 
Fisheries Subsidies, A mbassador Wills on the clearer process and way forward. On WTO reform, our 
Ministers have agreed to launch the WTO reform process with the aim to achieve results by MC13. 
In this regard, Malaysia 's priority is to restore the two -tier dispute settlement sys tem. We are 
confident that we can achieve this by MC13, provided that all Members are willing to show 
pragmatism in our future engagements.  On the WTO response to the pandemic, we support the 
implementation of the efforts and continue combatting the pandem ic. We should not be complacent 
and must continue to strengthen the multilateral cooperation in ensuring an inclusive response is 
accorded to all Members. On a final note, we will continue to support consensus on the plans for  
MC13. With the MC12 mandate, we call for all Members to work together and contribute 
constructively to supporting the multilateral trading system which must be equipped to deal with 
evolving 21st  century challenge s.  
2.75.   The representative of Guatemala  delivered  the following statement:  
2.76.   On fisheries subsidies , Guatemala would like to congratulate the membership, the Secretariat, 
and especially Ambassador  Wills, for meeting our goal of adopting the Agreement on Fisheries 
Subsidies. This is an outcome that took more than 20 years to achieve,  but we can finally say that 
we have achieved it. Guatemala would like to emphasize that, in its view, the area of illegal, 
unreported and unregulated fishing is largely covered and, despite containing a transitional period, 
it does not affect the agreemen t's impact . Furthermore, Guatemala would like to express its 
satisfaction with respect to the full and unconditional prohibition on granting subsidies to fishing in 
the open seas, in other words, outside the jurisdiction of a coastal State or the areas of competence 
of any RFMO. We consider these types of subsidies to be some of the most harmful as they lack 
control and have contributed to the reduction of marine species worldwide. It is our belief that the 
most important step now is to speed up the approva l process at the national level to bring the 
agreement into force, and we look forward to hearing more about progress in this process. We are 
aware that there is still some way to go, and that Article 12 of the Agreement encourages us to 
continue negotiati ons with a view to obtaining a broader agreement, which is why we are committed 
to continuing to participate actively in these negotiations to achieve this objective.  
 
7 At the request of the delegation of Colombia, the full text of this joint declaration can  be found in Annex  2 
of this document.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.77.   On Agriculture negotiations , first of all, let me thank Ambassador Gloria Abraham for her  
report on the last meeting of the Committee on Agriculture in Special Session (CoA SS) as Chair of 
the Negotiating Group on Agriculture. I would like to acknowledge her leadership and commitment 
to building bridges on the issues during her term in office.  Her professionalism, patience, partiality, 
good humour and openness to dialogue is something that has characterized and been key in this 
process. On behalf of the Government of Guatemala, we would like to thank her for her efforts as 
the first woman to se rve as Chair of the Special Session on Agriculture and from the Central American 
region, leaving a legacy for new generations.  The agriculture negotiations are among the most 
difficult within this Organization, which is not an easy task. Guatemala recogniz es her efforts to try 
to ensure that the discussions are conducted with a level of detail and having obtained agreements 
on food insecurity during the 12th Ministerial Conference. With regard to the agriculture negotiations, 
it must be stressed that much w ork remains to be done, and this work must be undertaken by us, 
the Members, in the quest to move forward and on how to move forward.  It is important to relaunch 
the agricultural negotiations and to reflect on the structure and processes, with the aim of a chieving 
the long -awaited agricultural reform, in particular for the domestic support pillar. We draw attention 
to the fact that the levels of distortion in agricultural trade continue to grow and this is worrying. 
The food crisis we are facing, and which,  according to reports, will worsen in the coming year, leaves 
us with a great responsibility to seek fair and equitable trade for agricultural producers, particularly 
in developing Members  and small vulnerable economies. Our biggest mandate is the Agreemen t on 
Agriculture, in Article 20 of the reform process, where we have all committed from the outset to 
reform agricultural trade, without exception.  Guatemala is therefore willing to continue working 
constructively in the negotiations in order to move the n egotiation process forward.  
2.78.   The representative of Australia  delivered  the following statement:  
2.79.   We would like to make particular mention of Ambassador Nella of Samoa. We are welcoming 
a new colleague and a new mission. This is an extremely important step for the Pacific Group 
especially when that region is having a growing influence on this Organization. Samoa has been a 
long-standing WTO Member and now has a presence here. Our priorities and our  focus going forward 
must be on rebuilding the  authority of the rules of this house , that  includes building convergence on 
the restoration of the appellate review function. Dispute settlement must be returned to full health , 
and we will support any process you choose to implement, Chair, to build conv ergence on that issue. 
On the rulemaking front, on agriculture , MC12 taught us that fundamental change is required on our 
approach to that issue. The Cairns Group is ready to contribute. We are holding a retreat internally 
on 16 -17 September. We are keen t o work with others, and are inviting all Members to come and 
engage. We have a session for partners – so if Members want to work with us to rethink Agriculture 
please take that opportunity. The outgoing CoA SS Chair  said we need to keep our eyes on the big  
picture. We agree. In terms of net zero emissions goals, we simply wo uld not  get there with USD 
800 billion  in agriculture support pouring into the sector each year. On fisheries subsidies , I agree 
with the Director -General, the Chair, Norway and others w ho said  that we need to ratify these 
certified texts as soon as possible and to make it enter into force  earlier than with other agreements. 
No other process is needed – just domestic ratification. On Brazil 's new proposal on annual 
WTO Ministerial Confere nces, we too have a strong interest in de -dramati zing these conferences in 
the future. MC12 was extremely successful but was a tumultuous experience. We need careful 
consideration of our approach to these Ministerial meetings. As Brazil said, this is the e nd of a cycle 
in several respects and is connected to our rethinking on rulemaking. We want to ensure we do  not 
overload expectations for these meetings and ensure they are genuinely de -dramati zed. We will 
think carefully about Brazil 's proposal with those  objectives in mind.  
2.80.   The representative of Türkiye delivered  the following statement:  
2.81.   As we indicated at the Informal HODs  meeting on 7 July, we are very content to have been 
able to secure a paragraph on WTO reform in the MC12 Outcome Document, which we see as 
indispensable.  It is indeed vital to have a well -functioning international trading system under the 
WTO. This is not only because of the ambivalence in international trade due to post -pandemic 
recovery, war in Ukraine and related geopolitical conditions but also because of the need to catch 
up with the new ways of doing trade.  Thus, we need to launch an inclusive and balanced reform 
process with clear objectives and concrete work plans as a matter of urgency.  We need to bring the 
WTO back to its full functions. It has to resume its negotiating, monitoring and dispute settlement 
function fully and we have to preserve the WTO as the mai n venue for the governance of 
international trade.  On the stalemate of the  Appel late Body,  we have to safeguard the two -tier and 
binding dispute settlement system at the WTO. The continued failure to do so would jeopardize the WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  functioning of the whole WTO system.  For this, we have to come up with a set of explicit guidance 
for enhancing the system and in ensuring this, we have to be inclusive in our discussions.  Moreover, 
we have to also establish  new rules reflecting today 's global conditions. In the absen ce of these new 
rules, the WTO runs the risk of losing its central place as the embodiment of world trade rules and 
principles.  Also, development  should be a central concept in the reform process. This process must 
be inclusive to make sure that trade can be sustainable and beneficial to all.  For that, we have to 
strive to find mutually acceptable ground in making  the special  and differential treatment 
principle  functional without disrupting the rights accorded to developing countries with the WTO 
Agreement s. We take the reform of the WTO very seriously as a firm advocate of the multilateral 
system. We are ready and willing to work with all Members to achieve effective results in this 
process.  Regarding  e-commerce , we are pleased that a reasonable and compre hensive consensus 
has been reached on "Decision on the E -commerce Work Programme and Moratorium ". Having 
regard to the deadlines in the Decision, we urge all Members to initiate the discussion about scope, 
definition, and impact of the Moratorium as soon a s possible.  In this context, we support the practice 
of discussing the Work Programme related issues in the WTO 's relevant bodies and reporting the 
results of these discussions to the General Council.  In addition to that, we believe that holding 
regular de dicated session meetings or forming a working group about Moratorium would be beneficial 
for discussing the scope, definition, and impact of the Moratorium in detail and reaching a consensus 
on these matters in line with the deadlines determined by the Dec ision.  In accordance with this 
purpose, Türkiye is ready to engage actively and constructively in the E -commerce Work Programme 
and Moratorium related discussions.  
2.82.   The representative of the Philippines  delivered  the following statement:  
2.83.   Allow me to provide our perspective on this agenda item as well as the Director -General 's 
briefing. I was not present at the recent Heads of Delegation meeting  on 7 July, but I gather there 
is a renewed sense among the membership that we must be creative and adapt our thinking and 
behavio ur to be more results -oriented , nimble and responsive to the changed world we now find 
ourselves in. D irector -General,  you never wavered in your persistence and leadership to deliver a 
successful M C12. And you did it and I congratulate you and the expertise of the DDGs and the 
Secretariat, your collaboration with the political Ministers, and the help of all delegations and 
Ambassadors here in Geneva. I had the opportunity on 15 July to personally br ief my country 's new 
President as Chief Executive and Cabinet Minister for Agriculture on the outcomes of MC12. It is 
clear that his priorities are aligned to that of the WTO's agenda: strengthening food security and 
agricultural capacity, building resilie nce to the pandemic and future public health emergencies, and 
addressing climate change and environmental sustainability. The Philippines would like to thank the 
Secretariat for producing RD/WTO/13, which provides us with a useful snapshot of the work requ ired 
to fulfil MC12 mandates by MC13.  
2.84.   We wish to reiterate our support for the Director -General's proposal for a retreat in September 
to define pathways forward on agricultural negotiations. It is imperative that we identify a new COA -
SS Chair as soon as possible, ideally someone from a develo ping Member who can represent a 
credible middle ground on the sensitive issues of domestic support, public stockholding for food 
security purposes, and special safeguard mechanism. The Philippines also believes that the 
membership would stand to benefit fr om a separate retreat to discuss WTO reform, which we expect 
will consume a significant amount of our work moving towards MC13. The retreat could utilize various 
formats to improve informal engagement and could be conducted under Chatham House rules. In 
addition, we must sustain the momentum from MC12 and resume work on fisheries subsidies, 
including the preparatory work for the creation of a Committee on Fisheries Subsidies and the 
establishment of the WTO funding mechanism, while Members are completing do mestic procedures. 
The Philippines welcomes the historic deal reached in the fisheries subsidies negotiations at MC12, 
which elevated Members' shared value in ensuring the sustainability of our oceans, seas and marine 
resources. It demonstrated the solidar ity of the Organization in addressing overfishing as well as 
sanctioned illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in a non -discriminatory and transparent 
regime. It also affirmed the WTO's commitment to be consistent with the United Nations Sustainable 
Development Goal 14.6. Given the mandate for the Negotiating Group on Rules to continue 
negotiations on outstanding issues with a view to making recommendations at MC13 to achieve a 
comprehensive agreement on fisheries subsidies, the Philippines subscribes  to the Latin saying 
"carpe diem" or "seize the day". In the interest of time, Members need to capitalize on the remaining 
time to comply with the essential requirements as mandated in the agreement, while Members are 
completing domestic procedures in cons idering the agreement's protocol. The Philippines remains 
committed to engage in discussing the needed requirements for the proper implementation of the WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  agreement. The Philippines appreciates the adoption of the SPS Declaration for MC12 which would 
push Me mbers to take stronger science -based approaches in assessing the safety of food and 
agricultural products in global trade. We believe that this is a step in the right direction to 
demonstrate that SPS measures should contribute to economic growth, poverty reduction, food 
security and environmental protection.  As we undertake to develop a Work Programme to enhance 
the implementation of the SPS Agreement, WTO Members should harness the available agricultural 
technologies, mechanisms, and other innovations in promoting food safety and protection of human, 
animal and plant life and health. These approaches and innovations must be responsive in addressing 
the challenges and emerging pressures in the application of the SPS Agreement. Likewise, the Work 
Programme m ust take into account the special needs of developing and least -developed countr y 
Members  to enhance their capabilities in responding to SPS challenges and improving agricultural 
sustainability. The Philippines stands ready to cooperate in the works of the  SPS Committee and the 
implementation of the activities that will be outlined in the Work Programme. The Philippines likewise 
continues to support the extension of the moratorium on the customs duties on electronic commerce 
and highly advocate s for the rei nvigoration of the work under the Work Program on Electronic 
Commerce. We also note the progress made in the parallel discussions on the joint statement 
initiative on e -commerce. We believe that we should ride this momentum as electronic commerce 
plays a c ritical role in the global post -pandemic recovery.   
2.85.   Let me conclude by again supporting the D irector -General's  call for focused retreats to 
follow -up on the success of MC12 and deliver by MC13. And in this vein, to quote and borrow the 
words from the President of the Philippine's  inaugural address as he called for unity and continuity 
in order to deliver prosperity to the Filipino people, and I quote: "So let us all be part of the solution 
that we choose; in that lies the power to get it done. Always be ope n to differing views but ever 
united in our chosen goal. "  
2.86.   The representative of Chile delivered  the following statement:  
2.87.   MC12 demonstrated that the WTO continues to be a key institution for the world  economic 
order and provided us with clear mandates. Chile is fully committed to these mandates.  My country 
is willing to resume  work soon, and to press ahead and implement the agreements in preparation 
for MC13 . With respect to the implementation of MC12  outcomes, we first wish to highlight the 
continued work on the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies , one of the principal milestones. Disciplines 
of great importance for sustainability remain outstanding. Chile, a country overlooking the ocean, 
will always be actively involved in this  matter . Furthermo re, as a food producer and exporter, we 
are highly engaged in discussions on agriculture. The dynamic so far  has made it unable to advance, 
and this has become  all the more critical in these difficult times, when, instead of moving forward 
on improvements to food security, we are backsliding.  We therefore welcome the Director -General's 
proposal for a retreat to allow Members to reflect on new alternatives in agricultural negotiations, 
the consideration given to discussions on food security within the Organization and the progress 
made  in implementing the SPS workplan. Chile will certainly participate in a very active and 
constructive manner in all these matters. On this point, allow me to mention the commendable work 
of the Ambassador of Costa Rica, Gloria A braham, who took on the difficult task of steering the 
discussions during the Special Session of the Committee on Agriculture. She did so with grace and 
wisdom, as well as level -headedness in the more difficult moments.  We are more than ready to 
restart work on other topics of utmost importance, namely discussions on trade, health and 
intellectual property, which allow us to continue responding to the COVID -19 pandemic; on electronic 
commerce, especially the moratorium; a nd on services. Chile is also very keen to make headway in 
discussions on WTO reform. The outcomes of the last Ministerial Conference, as well as the impact 
and scope of the current challenges, call for an Organization that is able to continue responding 
effectively. This requires optimum performance in all aspects, including having an operational 
dispute settlement body that is accessible to all Members . I reaffirm our total commitment to the 
Organization, now and in the future, by supporting flourishing, sustainable and inclusive trade.   
2.88.   I would also like to take the opportunity to update Members on the latest developments in 
the Joint Initiative on Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) which I have the privilege to 
co-coordinate with Ambassador Ju ng Sung P ark from the Republic of Korea. As you know, over 110 
Members, representing two -thirds of the WTO membership, participate in this open -ended, 
pro-multilateral joint initiative . Participants are committed to conclude the text negotiations on an 
Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement by the end of 2022 as aimed at in last 
December's Joint Statement . We recently held two very constructive and productive rounds  of 
meetings , from 6 to 8 July and from 18 to 20 July  respectively . Participants r eiterated their WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  commitment to work hard – at the meetings, as well as in -between them – to meet this ambitious 
deadline. Participants 'walked the talk' by demonstrating flexibility and submitting compromise texts, 
which pave the way for possible 'landing z ones' on a range of key issues. Among them - a joint text 
proposal on an MFN provision , a joint text contribution on the definition of "authorization" , as well 
as possible landing zones for exclusions from the scope of application of the future agreement.  More 
generally, the negotiations on the text of the agreement are well advanced thanks to participants' 
active engagement. We now have 'convergence text' for most of the key sections of the future 
agreement: section II on ' transparency of investment measur es'; section III on ' streamlining and 
speeding up administrative procedures'; section IV on ' focal points, domestic regulatory coherence 
and cross -border cooperation'; and importantly, section V on ' special and differential treatment'. 
The S&DT section is modelled on the TFA approach – allowing developing and LDC Members to self -
designate their pace of implementation as well as their technical assistance and capacity building 
support needs for a successful implementation.  The Joint Initiative on Investment Facilitation for 
Development is advancing along two main 'tracks': the negotiations on the text of the agreement, 
based on the so -called 'Easter Text' (currently revision 6); and ongoing work on IFD needs 
assessments, modelled on the TFA approach, to help developing and LDC Members implement the 
future agreement. On IFD Needs Assessment, ongoing work on a draft Self -Assessment Guide – 
coordinated by the WTO Secretariat in cooperation with partner international organizations – is 
progressing steadily. Members participating in the Joint Initiative have assigned high priority to 
conducting investment facilitation needs assessments. Thus, it is hoped that a first draft of that 
Guide will be ready in time for Members' review in Septemb er. A dedicated Session on the 
Investment Facilitation Self -Assessment Guide, in the presence of partner international 
organizations,  is planned for the meeting in September. We , the co -coordinators , envisage to 
circulate a new revision of the 'Easter Text ' (revision 7) after the summer break, reflecting the 
significant progress achieved since February – including the recent new 'landing zones'.  To best 
organize the work in the second part of 2022, we circulated to all WTO Members a schedule of 
meetings and  a work plan entitled 'Priority Work Areas' for the period September to December. While 
it is an ambitious work plan, participants supported it at the 18 -20 July meeting and reiterated their 
commitment to work towards the aim of concluding the text negotia tions by the end of this year.  
Mindful that this initiative is 'pro -multilateral',  all WTO Members are welcome to attend the meetings 
and participate in the negotiations and all documents are available on the IFD portal on the WTO 
website.  The IFD initiati ve is at a decisive stage. It is very important for Members to make their 
voices heard in the negotiations as early as possible to help co -shape the future IFD agreement.  
Ambassador Park and I stand ready to engage with you on any issue you may wish to dis cuss. 
2.89.   The representative of Switzerland  delivered  the following statement:  
2.90.   In addition to our intervention made during the informal Heads of Delegation meeting on 
7 July, Switzerland would like to highlight the decision taken by Ministers to reinvigorate t he work 
programme and maintain the e -commerce moratorium, as this represents a positive signal for the 
economic operators and consumers. We are ready to reflect on how to intensify the discussions on 
the moratorium and are looking forward to engaging  with interested Members.  
2.91.   The representative of Kenya , on behalf of the ACP Group , delivered  the following statement:  
2.92.   Regarding the report of the Director -General as Chair of the TNC, and this agenda item on 
MC12 outcomes, we, once again, register our appreciation to the Director -General, the MC12 Chair, 
all Chairs and Facilitators, and commend all delegations for their remarkable resilience throughout 
what was an arduous Conference. We appreciate that , at the 7 July HOD Informal meeting, Members 
expres sed concerns about the obstacles faced in the process during MC12 and how we all could 
consider together how to do things better. There are ways in which we can improve the process for 
MC13 and the ACP Group proposes that WTO Members reflect on this issue.  We are also of the view 
that these issues must be part of what we intend to address under WTO reform. It was refreshing 
to hear Members ' willingness to take this issue forward and resist an "end justifies the means 
approach ", which has plagued all WTO Ministerial Conferences. At the same time, we recognize that 
there were certain unusual and difficult process needs in light of the fact that we are rebuilding in 
the wake of the raging pandemic and a context that we face on the global scene today.  The ACP 
Group has exchanged, internally, on our preliminary views about the outcomes of MC12. We expect 
that over the coming months Members, through the General Council and the relevant bodies will 
begin to implement the outcomes.  As we stated at the 7 July HOD s, MC12 provided us with the 
opportunity to reflect on the role of the WTO in trade and development, to appreciate the importance 
of Ministerial involvement in the process and, importantly, the essential nature of inclusivity and WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  transparency in the work of the  Organization. Though not perfect, we should be proud of the 
outcomes of MC12. There were significant lessons that we learn ed, and more importantly, we have 
been able to get Ministerial mandates on critical issues.  
2.93.   On fisheries subsidies, the mandate of t he WTO in fulfilling SDG 14.6 remains a work in 
progress. A fisheries subsidies agreement was concluded with all provisions presented to Ministers 
in the text, except certain key paragraphs under Article 5 on overcapacity and overfishing. The 
Agreement cov ers, among other things, core disciplines on subsidies benefitting IUU fishing, fishing 
in overfished condition, and fishing in unregulated high seas. While we believe that the focus should 
be placed on securing ratification of the agreement, we should als o ensure that overcapacity and 
overfishing negotiations are made a priority, if the agreement is to be credible and fully delivers 
SDG 14.6. Agreeing on overcapacity and overfishing disciplines has eluded us for decades but we 
now have an opportunity to co nclude these negotiations by MC13.  We are interested in plans within 
the Secretariat on ratification so that the threshold to trigger entry into force can be reached as soon 
as possible. Further, the  Negotiating Group on Rules  should reconvene early to hav e a legal 
scrubbing of the text in order to address any discrepancies that may be within the document. 
Notwithstanding the procedure taken for the TFA, a legal scrubbing is due diligence and a necessary 
step for any agreement, with or without a formal proc edure.  Legal scrubbing not only includes a 
verification between the three official languages, but also ensures that all drafting conventions are 
observed, editorial cleaning is done, and redundancies checked.  This is a common practice in treaty 
making and contracts, which guarantees confidence as Members proceed to ratify and accept the 
agreement. This does not alter Ministers ' decisions but can assist in ensuring that the Agreement, 
as a whole, adheres to established legal standards. We urge Members to mov e expeditiously on the 
legal verification. We appreciate the Director -General 's report on plans for the trust fund but we also 
seek clarity on the implementation of Article 7 on technical assistance and capacity building.  
2.94.   Regarding the declaration on the W TO's response to the pandemic and preparation for future 
pandemics, it is important that the Chairs of councils, committees and working groups include on 
the agenda of their next meetings a discussion on how their respective bodies will contribute to the 
implementation of the various elements of the declaration.  As relates to WTO reform, we should now 
begin to build -out the various elements which we would want to see in a reform package. We should 
aim to present a comprehensive package to Ministers at MC13. At the very least, Ministers should 
be presented with a streamlined vertical  text that represents an advanced stage of negotiations on 
the issue. The ACP Group is working on a reform proposal which we hope to share with Members 
soon.  On agriculture, we are disappointed that MC12 did not agree on a revised work programme 
for the ne gotiations. Agriculture is of fundamental importance to the ACP Group. We can start 
discussions on the parameters for outcomes in areas such as PSH, domestic support and SSM. 
Hopefully , we will be able to present streamlined texts and not just work program mes at MC13.  We 
should proceed in a manner that respects the redlines of others and accommodates the interests of 
all Members.  We appreciated the discussions in the CoA  SS last week, and the observations from 
the Chair. As she prepares for her departure fr om Geneva, we thank her for all of her work to help 
us advance and arrive at outcomes during MC12 on the World Food Programme purchases, and the 
WTO's emergency response to food insecurity. She has made a positive contribution to the 
negotiations, and we l ook forward to working with her successor to carry the work forward. We wish 
her well in her future endeavo urs. The declaration on trade and food security is very timely. The 
CoA and other relevant bodies should begin discussions on how to implement the de claration. It is 
also important for the CoA  SS to have a discussion on how it can contribute to the implementation 
process. Where collaboration with external stakeholders is necessary, we would wish to hear the 
Secretariat's road map in this regard.  
2.95.   In this intervention , we also address agenda item 3, in that we welcome the affirmations and 
new direction through instructions from the Ministers at MC12 regarding implementation of the Bali 
and Nairobi Decisions found, in particular for LDCs, in paragraph 8 of  the MC12 outcome document, 
and the mandates for agriculture.  On TRIPS non-violation and situation complaints, we urge a 
resolution of this area and the moratorium to be made permanent.  Given the new deadlines for the 
e-commerce moratorium, we hope that th e questions raised by Members can be resolved in time for 
MC13 and that the work programme is utilized to tackle these as well as other issues beyond the 
moratorium, including digital divide, payment systems, internal taxes, localization, source code and 
other questions facing e -commerce today.  The ACP Group will play its part in bringing forward issues 
of interest to its Members, particularly as they relate to the development dimension of the Work 
Programme. We request that the General Council, the Chairs of councils, committees and working 
groups mandated to implement these MC12 outcomes to include on the agenda of their next WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  meetings a discussion on how their respective bodies will contribute to the implementation of the 
various elements of the declaratio n. 
2.96.   The representative of Japan  delivered the following statement:  
2.97.   We commend the Members for delivering a Ministerial Declaration at MC12 for the first time 
in six and a half years, and for indicating the pathway in key areas. We believe that MC12 has 
created momentum for future work in the WTO.  For the way forward, Japan considers it important 
that Members implement the outcomes obtained at MC12.  Among the outcomes of MC12, the 
Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies is the most important. This Agreement will not only contribute to 
the achievement of the SDGs but also promote global fisheries resource management. Therefore, 
Members need to proceed with domestic ratification procedures promptly in order to bring this 
agreement into effect. As for Japan, we will make the effort for that. Furthermore, Members should 
resume the discussion as soon as possible toward a comprehensive agreement.  On agricultural 
negotiations, we will actively participate in the process to move forward the negotiations, incl uding 
by exchanging views at retreat meetings as suggested by the D irector -General . With regard to the 
timing of the retreat meeting s, we consider it important that Members are given sufficient 
preparation time so tha t the delegates including capital -based  officials will have a fruitful discussion 
at the meeting.  On WTO reform, Japan considers that the monitoring, rulemaking, and dispute 
settlement functions need to be reformed. In particular, Members should start the discussion as 
soon as possible in order  to achieve a fully and well -functioning dispute settlement system that is 
accessible to all Members. We also need to initiate the discussion on WTO reform other than dispute 
settlement  reform in a flexible and inclusive manner.  On the moratorium on custom s duties on 
electronic transmissions, it is important to continue and eventually make this practice permanent so 
as not to undermine business opportunities for many developing country Members' companies that 
are engaged in design and data processing in the  global value chain of manufacturing industries. 
Members should reinvigorate the work under the Work Programme on Electronic Commerce so that 
the moratorium will be permanent.   
2.98.   Finally, I will provide you with a brief report on work under the Joint Stateme nt Initiative on 
Electronic Commerce , on behalf of the co -convenors: Australia, Japan and Singapore.  After the 
previous report, co -convenors had a transparency meeting in May to give some updates for our 
negotiation to Members. In this meeting, we declared  to launch two new small groups, namely 
Privacy and Telecommunications Services Disciplines. During MC12, Ministers of Australia, Japan 
and Singapore issued a joint statement and welcomed the good results achieved in these 
negotiations to date. The Ministe rs also committed to the timely conclusion of the negotiations. To 
that end, they committed to issuing a revised Consolidated Negotiating Text by the end of 2022. Co -
convenors and Switzerland also launched Capacity Building Framework, which we believe will  offer 
effective technical assistance particularly regarding the rulemaking of e-commerce for developing 
and LDC Members.  After MC12, we changed the modality of our negotiation, and held plenary 
meetings and small group meetings in hybrid style for three c onsecutive days in July, which we 
believe will contribute to accelerating our negotiations. It was our first attempt to hold these hybrid 
style meetings since the pandemic, but we saw good convergence for some of the texts, including 
Electronic Transaction  Framework and Cybersecurity during this period. After the summer break, we 
will hold meetings with this new modality on a regular basis, hopefully with greater participation 
from capitals, in order to achieve further progress of this negotiation this year . We would like to 
thank all participants for their hard work and look forward to making further good progress this year.  
2.99.   The representative of the European Union  delivered  the following statement:  
2.100.   We take note of the suggestion by the Chair of the Genera l Council to make better use of 
the G eneral Council  rules of procedure to be more effective. The autumn will be intense, and it needs 
to be so. We hope to engage in a spirit of cooperation on the issues coming out of MC12 and face 
today 's challenges, inclu ding humanitarian ones. We find it appalling that the ink has not yet dried 
on the agreement to unblock grain exports from Ukraine, and the Russian Federation  is already 
bombarding the port of Odesa the next day. The European Union calls on the Russian Federation  to 
immediately stop its military aggression against Ukraine which is the only way to stop the 
humanitarian and food security crisis . 
2.101.   The representative of Botswana  delivered  the following statement:  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.102.   My delegation aligns itself with the statement de livered by Cameroon on behalf of the African 
Group.  As this is the first General Council after MC12, and following the Heads of Delegation meeting 
held earlier this month, I wish to reiterate that my delegation welcomes the outcome of MC12. We 
believe that more work still lies ahead to ensure full implementation of the outcome. It is important 
that this process be inclusive and as transparent as possible.  My delegation remains committed and 
ready to engage on the work towards implementation of t he outcomes and on the outstanding issues 
in preparation for the next Ministerial Conference.  Chairperson, we thank you for your report and 
we take note of the issues you have raised. We welcome the non -paper document RD/WTO/13 on 
the implementation of MC1 2 mandate as a working document and request that Members be given 
the opportunity to reflect on it to ensure it captures all the outcomes and ensuring course of action 
accurately. We reiterate our commitment to implement these outcomes as speedily as possi ble. In 
the interest of time, we will not repeat our submissions made at the Heads of Delegation meeting 
on 7 July on the implementation matters of the MC12 mandates. However, we wish to reiterate the 
importance and urgent need for Members to take immediat e action to implement the outcomes 
within stipulated timelines, especially on the outstanding issues including amongst others the 
discussions on the TRIPS Agreement outcomes to allow for the production and supply of COVID -19 
diagnostics and therapeutics, a s well as on the additional provisions to the Agreement on Fisheries 
in preparation for MC13 . 
2.103.   The representative of Iceland  deliver ed the following statement:  
2.104.   MC12 was a success for the WTO and demonstrated the ability of this institution to deliver 
concrete results in a difficult and challenging working environment. Multilateral outcomes on the 
immediate food crises and the pandemic are important and directly respond to these challenges.  
The MC12 outcome document reiterates our common commitment to s trengthen the multilateral 
trading system. We have pledged to accelerated reform, restoring a well -functioning dispute 
settlement system within two years. We also agreed for the first time on the importance of 
adequately promot ing wome n's economic empowerm ent and respond ing to environmental 
challenges.  An important progress was made in the fisheries negotiations. It is important that we 
continue negotiations on harmful fisheries subsidies that are still out of scope of the new Agreement. 
Adequate support fo r least -developed Members to implement the disciplines already agreed is also 
important and Iceland fully supports the establishment of a Fisheries Funding Mechanism to that 
end. An inclusive and transparent process advancing WTO reform should be initiated  at an early date 
and we need to continue and accelerate discussions on environmental challenges and wome n's 
economic empowerment.  
2.105.   As a one of the co -chairs of the Informal Working Group on Trade and Gender , Iceland is 
fully committed to continue the good  work that has taken place within the informal working group 
from its establishment. In the coming months , we will continue to advance and deepen our 
discussion in the group with the aim of enhancing wome n's economic empowerment as laid out in 
the outcome document. Once again, I invite all Members who have yet to do so to participate in this 
important work. As I am leaving Geneva in a few days, I would like to thank you all for making these 
years so memorable for me. It is both a sad and proud occasion for me. It is sad because the past 
five years have been both difficult and eventful and I have had the privilege of working with so many 
wonderful friends and colleagues. I will always remember and be proud of the months that I sat in 
this building with Ambassador Walker  and Ambassador Castillo  in the troika facilitating the very 
successful selection of the new Director -General. I feel a deep sense of pride in what the WTO 
represents, and its role in making this world a better place. Thank you all for all owing me to end my 
stay here in Geneva with a successful WTO ministerial.  Special thanks as well to the amazing 
Secretariat . 
2.106.   The representative of Argentina  delivered  the following statement:  
2.107.   On item 1,  Argentina considers that while MC12 did produce some concrete outcomes, these 
outcomes were partial and failed to address this Organization's greatest outstanding issue, namely 
the reform of agricultural trade rules, particularly the pillars of domestic support and market access. 
Current global challenges me an that there is an urgent need to significantly reduce production and 
trade -distorting domestic support, which also affects the environment, and to improve market access 
conditions for efficiently - and sustainably -produced agricultural products, which con tinue to be 
particularly affected by tariff and non -tariff barriers that lack any scientific basis.  Looking ahead to 
MC13, we understand that WTO Members have diverging priorities. However, at the same time, we 
are of the view that we must move on from thi s zero -sum game , which only favours those who WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  benefit from the status quo  to one in which the interests of all Members are reflected. We should 
therefore set realistic goals for the next Ministerial Conference and provide the political support 
required to achieve them.  On item 2,  Argentina associates itself with the statement made by 
Colombia , on behalf of my country, Brazil, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Peru and Uruguay on sustainable 
fisheries for the ambitious protection of the oceans, which concerns the need for prompt ratification 
of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. We call for discussions and negotiations to begin so that 
additional provisions may be concluded to secure a comprehensive agreement that includes 
disciplines on certain forms of fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing, 
recognizing that appropriate and  effective special and differential treatment for developing country 
Members and LDCs must form a key part of these negotiations.   
2.108.   The representative of India deliver ed the following statement:  
2.109.   This morning India has been privileged to have a newly elected  President . Madam Droupadi 
Murmu  has taken over as the 15th Indian President. In our Prime Minister's word s, "[i]t is a watershed 
moment, particularly for the poor, downtrodden and marginalized sections of society ". On agenda 
item 1 , since this is the first General Council meeting after MC12 , let me take this opportunity  to 
thank the Government s of Kazakhstan and Switzerland and the WTO Secretariat for hosting a 
successful Ministerial. I also take this opportunity to once again commend all Members and the 
Director -General for the successful outcomes at the Ministerial Conference. It is important for us to 
take forward the mandates from the Twelfth  Ministerial Conference. We must also not lose sight of 
the negotiating pillars where we cou ld not deliver during the Ministerial, as well as outstanding issues 
and mandates from previous Ministerials. So , let me very briefly highlight the key priorities for India 
for post -MC12 work : a permanent solution to the public stock holding (PSH) for food  security 
purposes  and a solution to SSM in agriculture. These two things remain our top priority and we need 
to restore the momentum that had been built on PSH in the run -up to the Ministerial Conference. 
On fisher ies subsidies, India looks forward to a q uick legal scrubbing of the text of the Agreement , 
maybe before the end of July or during the summer break so that when we resume the formal work 
in the month of September, we actually get into the further negotiations for the comprehensive 
agreement and t he process of ratification.  Delegations could emphasize the need or the relevance 
of effective special and differential treatment , based on their own priorities. However, India would 
like to emphasi ze that appropriate special and differential treatment, in cluding adequate policy space 
for developing country Members, including LDCs , to be an integral part of all these negotiations 
particularly in fisheries negotiations. When we resume our work , we therefore keep the common but 
differentiated responsibilities  (CBDR)  and polluter -pays principle  (PPP)  as the guiding principle for 
further negotiations. I hope that after the summer break, the TNC will expedite the work across the 
negotiating pillars and work towards early outcomes.  
2.110.   Regarding  item 2, I will touch upon TRIPS  when I make a statement under item 6. On the 
World Food Programme Ministerial Decision, I will request and call upon the World Food Programme 
to submit periodically its procurement details to the General Council for better understanding of the 
effectiveness of the Ministerial Declaration. This information will help us in monitoring the 
effectiveness of the decision and also for identifying the food insecure regions. We should work in a 
time bound manner to fulfil the mandate  given  on the basis of  proposals from Egypt and Sri Lanka 
for NFIDCs  so that the problems and challenges of these countries , including LDCs are taken care 
of. On the e -commerce work programme and moratorium on customs duty on electronic 
transmissions, the process to understand the scope and the impact of the moratorium needs to 
begin quickly for which Members need to work in a concerted and time bound manner in the Gener al 
Council and other regular WTO bodies to arrive at a common understanding. We have also 
underscored the importance of reinvigorating the Work Programme, particularly in line with its 
development dimension and as you have noted also in your report, in all  mandated councils and 
committees. India along with South Africa has already submitted in the Council for Trade and 
Development a paper for discussion in November 2021 to take the discussion forward. Finally, many 
Members at the last HoDs meeting of 7 July had expressed their concerns on the process issues 
faced by Members during the Ministerial Conference and have made some useful suggestions. India 
has also given some suggestions and will provide further suggestions on this, and I hope that this 
will be t aken note of.  
2.111.   The representative of Singapore  delivered  the following statement:  
2.112.   I thank the  Chair and express our appreciation to the D irector -General  and the Secretariat 
for compiling this very useful document  (RD/WTO/13 ), which provides Members with a u seful WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  checklist, as we contemplate the way forward post -MC12. As we ride on the positive momentum and 
consider how we can think, work and act differently, allow me to suggest three priority areas for our 
consideration.  First, we must address the moratorium  on customs duties on electronic transmissions 
and the Work Programme on Electronic Commerce in a sustainable manner. The rapid pace of the 
digital transformation is a reality that is transforming global trade and Members must seize 
opportunities to help M SMEs and women entrepreneurs right away and expand their markets. Hence, 
Members need to have a mindset change to see the moratorium not as a negotiating currency, but 
as a key element of building the digital economy and narrowing the digital divide. Given  that both 
international and business community attach great importance to the moratorium, we cannot afford 
to always use it as a bargaining chip at the 11th hour. Moving forward, we should embark on a 
comprehensive stocktake of Members' concerns, identify  differences and work to close the gaps and 
find a sustainable solution. Failure to do so will undermine Members' efforts to embrace the digital 
transformation and leverage opportunities in an increasingly digital world.  Second, we should 
continue our work  on the WTO response to the pandemic in a pragmatic and realistic manner. 
Unfortunately, the pandemic is not close to being over and the WHO has reported that there was a 
tripling of COVID -19 cases over the past six weeks in Europe. Hence, the WTO we will need to 
continue our efforts to contribute to a holistic global response to the pandemic and urgently build 
upon what we have done thus far. Ministers have also instructed us to learn from the challenges 
experience d during the COVID -19 pandemic. In this co ntext, Members must focus on how we can 
effectively and realistically save lives by ensuring that vaccines get into the arms of those who need 
them the  most. Third, Ministers have also given us the clear mandates on WTO reform at MC12 and 
we should move qu ickly to carry discussions forward. W e recognize that  164 Members hav e very 
different interests and concerns. However, given the critical importance to future -proof the WTO, 
we must be pragmatic about modalities in order to make progress in negotiations. As my Minister 
for Trade and Industry has suggested at the MC12 themati c session on WTO reform, it may be worth 
exploring the idea of flexible multilateralism. In this connection, Singapore supports the GC Chair to 
commence consultations with Members in a structured manner as soon as possible and will play an 
active role in t hese discussions.  
2.113.   The representative of the United Kingdom  delivered  the following statement:  
2.114.   Let me first say a formal congratulations to the D irector -General , the Secretariat and 
Kazakhstan as MC12 Chair – who played such a vital role at the Ministerial  Conference. It was a 
remarkable result for this Organization and for the trading system, but also for multilateralism, at a 
time when people have questioned whether multilateralism can stand up to the challenges of those 
who question the rules -based syste m. Let me pick up three small points . The first is about 
implementation. Let me welcome the work that you , Chair, and the Secretariat are doing to set out 
how it is we are going to implement the outcomes of MC12 , and I think that is a really important 
piece of work to keep us focused on implementation. And let me, like others, flag two particular 
areas  – one of which is the ratification of the Fisheries Subsidies A greement which , after all , is a 
ground -breaking Agreement for this Organization, our first env ironmental agreement and one of 
upmost importance to the world's fisheries and to communities that rely upon them. I agree with 
others that say we need to press on with the work to build on that Agreement . At the same time , as 
Members  work to ratify what we have achieved, I would like to  echo Singapore's words on 
e-commerce. It was vital that we renewed that moratorium. It is vital that we keep our eyes on why 
that moratorium is so important to businesses across the world  – developed, developing, 
micro -businesses as well as the largest businesses in the global economy. It is an enabler of digital 
growth across the global economy and one we need to sustain as we move forward. Second point is 
about learning lessons from MC12. It was a suc cess, but we can do better  - and we must do better 
at MC13. Brazil has offered some really helpful suggestions in terms of addressing the frequency of 
our Ministerial meetings and we warmly welcome those proposals . But they  are not enough . We can 
and must do better both in de -dramati zing Ministerials and in prepar ing better for them  – which 
includes  looking at our working methods  to ensur e that they meet the needs of the Organization in 
the 2020s.  Third, on substance , others have already praised those who a re departing our shores 
and welcomed those who are arriving in Geneva. I think the comments this morning remind us of 
what we are losing in this organi zation.  Their comments are absolutely on the spot of the substance 
of the issues that are facing us. And while we are right to congratulate ourselves of what we achieved 
at MC12, we must also be cogni zant of what we did not manage to achieve at MC12, whether that 
be in agriculture, or in terms of services, digital trade, or green goods and services. As we loo k 
outside this room at the challenges we face with climate change, the Horn of Africa facing famine as 
a result of years of drought , as we face the challenges that have been posed to the global economy 
by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, we need to keep our e yes on that bigger prize, of how this WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  Organization,  how global trade and the rules that we set enable the green transition and the 
transition to net -zero; how we can build respect for multilateral rules and the rules -based order and 
how we can ensure that the green transition del ivers for everybody  – developed and developing, 
micro -businesses and bigger businesses for our workers, for our consumers, for our societies and 
our planet. In our effort to implement MC12, we must not lose sight of that bigger pict ure of how 
global trade can contribute to those wider common goals.  
2.115.   The representative of the Republic of Korea  deliver ed the following statement:  
2.116.   I would like to touch upon four specific issues, namely, WTO reform, fisheries subsidies 
negotiations, agriculture, and e-commerce . WTO reform deserves our priority attention. In my view, 
WTO reform is not intended to pursue perfection in its operation or the way we work h ere in the 
WTO. Rather, it is something that improves on practical terms the effective ways of doing business, 
focusing on the right subjects so that the WTO remains relevant.  For so long, we have talked about 
WTO reform. We cannot afford to spend any more  time just to be ready and aim. Now is time to 
fire. We need action. We believe WTO reform starts not from the GC alone but from every meeting 
we hold at different levels within the house. In my view, the best process of our reform is for each 
committee to  launch its own reform initiatives right now and start to make differences from the past, 
rather than waiting for some mandate to be agreed from the above.  Another area of our focus could 
be to facilitate the rulemaking process of the WTO. The obvious star ting point in this area is to 
galvanize ongoing negotiations, those of JSIs in particular, including the finalization of certification 
process in domestic regulation, and the prompt conclusion of investment facilitation and e-commerce 
negotiations.  Complet ing these negotiations and incorporating their results into the WTO framework 
would be a significant landmark in updating our rulebook.  Furthermore, we should not ignore the 
potential, emerging new issues such as environment, particularly climate change th at is causing 
havoc worldwide. Focusing our energy on dedicated discussions on Trade and Environment will 
enhance the WTO's relevance to the outside world and major stakeholders.  I believe we should start 
our discussion to redefine  the role of the Minister ial Conference. Korea believes  we should not wait 
for the M inisterial Conference to make big decisions or deliver on grandiose packages. The gap 
between the General Council proce ss and the Ministerial Conference  process should be minimized. 
Therefore , we s upport Brazil's proposal to hold the M inisterial Conference  annually as a stocktaking 
event and hope that the WTO m embership will start discussions on this issue soon.   
2.117.   On fisheries subsidies, like other Members, my government will go through the internal 
process of accepting the outcome of the negotiations. Regarding the future negotiations, while we 
agree on the need to take a fresh look in future negotiations, I would like to reiterate that , as 
indicated in the Min isterial Decision , we should build on the work we have done previously. For 
example, it took us over 20 years to agree on a hybrid approach in the area of overcapacity and 
overfishing (OCOF), after having tried various approaches. We should not try to reinvent the wheel . 
As always, Korea s tands ready to engage constructively with WTO Members.  On agriculture, I believe 
that the failure to produce a work programme on agriculture at MC12 in spi te of intensive  discussions  
among Members clearly  demonstrate s that unless the outcome of discussions  reflects the sensitivity 
of each Member in a balanced manner, it would be difficult to reach an agreement.  From Korea's 
perspective, it will be vital to deal with the transparency aspect of export restrictions in the future 
Work Program me in a more seriou s manner, in light of the current food crisis.  Finally , the Decision 
on the E -commerce Moratorium and Work Programme at MC12 was a balanced and pragmatic 
compromise which was well received by businesses, including MSMEs, as well as consumers around 
the wor ld. Regarding the e -commerce work program me, Korea is of the view that it should be 
designed in a way to advance a more stable and inclusive digital world where the voices o f all 
stakeholders, including both large and small businesses , workers and consumer s, are heard. This 
will allow us to address the concern on digital divide and to promote digital inclusion . On the other 
hand, as a steadfast supporter of the extension of the moratorium on customs duties on electronic 
transmissions on a permanent basis, K orea would also like to encourage Members to work together 
to renew the moratorium in a timely manner, well ahead o f MC13. In the era of digital 
transformation, the importance of developing global rules on e -commerce cannot be 
overemphasized. Participants commit to conclude negotiations by the end of 2022 and  launch the 
E-commerce Capacity Building Framework to strengthen digital inclusion and to help developing and 
LDC Members. Korea would like to invite Members who have not yet participated in the discuss ions 
to join us.  
2.118.   The representative of Thailand  delivered  the following statement:  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.119.   Although we achieved more than w hat we  anticipated, it was  by no means  a cause for us to 
be complacent  because , as the Chair pointed out, we still have a lot of work to do. There are four 
points about the lessons learned  from MC12. First, Members must talk continuously rather than wait 
for the MC to arrive to begin talking. If we can engage much earlier to understand the position s 
rather than just repeating the same position s during a meeting,  that will be better for future 
negotiations, especially at the highest level – the Ministerial Conference. Second,  transparency was 
missing several times. I do not want to talk about  this much because I heard many delegations 
already talked about this . I shared the same sentiment  that transparency was lacking until the end 
of the Ministerial. How are we going to address this issue in the future? My delegation recognizes 
the need for s mall group discussions . Our task is to find a way on  how to make them transparent 
and keep Members informed during the discussion s. Third, I have noticed that there have been new 
creative ideas coming out of the MC12 negotiations, such as the sunset clause  and opt-in, opt-out. 
This mechanism could be implemented or used to gain in future negotiations but having them 
presented at the last minute is not something that I wish to see again. We could discuss in WTO 
reform the mechanism that implements this so no body will be caught by surprise again. Fourth, 
several emerging issues are coming out of MC12. They are related to the existing WTO mandates, 
but they are not formally here, such as climate change, which is related to many issues like food 
security, agriculture, the environment, and also digital economic issues, which is something that we 
need to take into account how we are going to incorporate these emerging issues into the future 
agenda of the WTO.  
2.120.   So, how should we  move forward in the ne gotiations post -MC? First, w e must build on 
previous work . We may need to ask the Chairs to consult with the Members about whether some of 
their proposals should be re -tabled. We should do a stocktaking of the existing proposals and see 
whether Members sti ll have the same position or not in order to have a clear view on what we have 
on the table to find the best way forward. So, we must not forget the good work that has been done 
by all the Chairs as well as Members' proposals. Second, I would like to echo what the CoA SS Chair  
said at the agriculture meeting that future WTO negotiations must be evidence -based, and we should 
not negotiate based on emotion s or speak  without supporting information. I look forward to having 
more contributions not only from Members but also from the Secretariat,  the Director -General , and 
the DDGs by providing the substantive research and analytical papers so th at future negotiations 
will be based on information, evidence and sound policy study. I look forward to having more 
participation from the Secretariat, academics, business, and civil society in the future WTO 
discussion. Third, the GC must try to see  how to incorporate the new issues like I mentioned earlier. 
How do horizontal issues such as climate change, digital economy, and development issues, which 
were very important issues during MC12, now come into play?  Fourth, Members should talk to each 
other and not only talk to like-minded Members  but also need to talk to non -like-minded ones  to 
understand the rationale behind th eir position  particularly on w hat they really want and what their 
position  is. I would like to mention one delegation who has reached out to Thailand before MC12, 
which is Egypt, to explain their situation on food security in detail and they have continued  efforts 
to reach out to other Members. I think this is what we should see more of in the future of the WTO. 
There are also various works that are taken in the various bodies, such as environment – how can 
we do this and look at  the cluster mode.  Lastly, T hailand's priority will continue in the main areas 
such as fisheries subsidies, agriculture, WTO reform, and TRIPS waivers, but I want to mention only 
two issues . On WTO reform , this is a very important and big basket of issues. I hope that we can 
have a b etter idea of how to proceed with these issues . They should not be lumped together as one 
basket, but we need to have a better idea about what they could cover and how to treat them as 
separate  baskets. Another is the issue of development. Thailand is a de veloping country  Member  
and this is the time that we need to come and discuss development issues and related mechanisms 
in a way that is practical and also sympathetic to the needs of Members.  
2.121.   The representative of Tunisia  delivered  the following statement:  
2.122.   My delegation associates itself with those that have welcomed the outcomes agreed upon 
collectively at MC12. We thank all Members that worked to find compromises on most of the priority 
matters under consideration, demonstrating t hat the WTO is capable of proposing solutions to crises 
and addressing current and future challenges through concrete trade commitments that benefit our 
populations. We are also grateful for the major role played by the Director -General, who, thanks to 
her wise leadership and endless determination in the difficult moments, was able to keep up the 
momentum needed in negotiations, while also instilling in them a humanitarian dimension and spirit 
of solidarity, which were key for the historic outcomes achieved . We also thank the Facilitators and 
the Chairs of the Negotiating Groups. Our particular thanks go to the Secretariat for its constant WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  support for Members' efforts during the preparations for MC12, at the Conference itself, and now 
through the preparation  of the compilation of the outcomes.  Moreover, the illustrative table  
(RD/WTO/13 ) will certainly be useful for Members and would benefit from their additions.  The 
Organization has seen several successful Conferences, but fewer have delivered on their promi ses. 
The outcomes will only go down in history if the multilateral system and populations benefit from 
them, mainly in critical areas such as the pandemic response, food security and economic resilience.  
Members will be required to properly gauge the impor tance of and stakes surrounding MC13, since 
a long list of decisions to be examined, a work programme to be discussed and recommendations to 
be validated - have been carried over from MC12.  We should continue to be guided by the same 
faith and sense of res ponsibility shown at MC12, working in the same spirit and with the same 
impetus.  In this regard , my delegation considers that, in order to ensure a mutually -satisfactory 
implementation of the MC12 outcomes, we should, in particular  meet the six -month deadl ine for a 
decision on the extension of the TRIPS waiver to cover COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics, with 
a view to seeking a holistic solution and boosting the credibility of the Ministerial Decision . We 
likewise need to  immediately identify the priori ties for MC13 regarding the agriculture negotiations. 
Another conference without an outcome on agriculture would no longer be credible.  We are of the 
view that the longstanding mandated subjects on public stockholding for food security; domestic 
support; p roductive capacity development in developing countries, particularly in NFIDCs; and 
opportunities for small farmers must be a key part of any outcome. We also need to continue to 
work with the same momentum in the area of fisheries subsidies, in order to rapidly make decisions 
on the overcapacity and overfishing pillar, which is crucial for an effective and comprehensive result 
on fisheries sustainability.  Moreover, it is essential to swiftly put in place the funding and assistance 
mechanism provided by th e agreement to support developing and least -developed countries in its 
adequate implementation.  We should also reinvigorate the Work Programme on E -Commerce  by 
agreeing on a clear matrix containing the axes to be developed, including an evaluation of the s cope 
and effectiveness of the moratorium.  We should b ase WTO reform on the MC12 outcome document 
in order to make headway in strengthening the rules -based multilateral framework, taking into 
consideration the full range of Members' concerns, including the fulfilment of development goals. In 
addition, we are of the view that meeting the 2024 deadline for an operational dispute settlement 
system would restore the balance within the WTO that has been lost since late 2019.  My delegation 
reiterates its commitmen t to constructively contributing to the fulfilment of the MC12 mandate and 
to strengthening the restored trust in our Organization.  We associate ourselves with the statements 
on behalf of the African Group and the Arab Group.  
2.123.   The representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia  delivered  the following statement:  
2.124.   Let me take this opportunity to congratulate all of us for the  success that we have achieved 
collectively at MC12. We would  like to express our sincere appreciation to the Director -General for 
your able leadership and determination that led  us to a successful MC12. We wish also to express 
our deep gratitude to the General Council Chair, the Chairs of various WTO bodies,  the Facilitators 
and the Secretariat for their tireles s efforts in steering MC12 to a success.  The achievement of the 
Geneva Package at MC12 is a laudable milestone. The outcomes achieved are indeed the fruits of 
our collective effort, strong commitment and hard work. They demonstrate that the WTO is capable 
and part of the solution to address unpre cedent crises of our time and responds to the current 
challenges. We have shown the world that WTO Members can come together to find solutions and 
deliver constructive outcomes for the benefit of the people.  As we move to MC13 , we need to be 
guided by the same faith and sense of responsibility to the multilateral  trading system. A long list of 
outcomes are on the table and we need to seize the momentum and continue to work in the same 
spirit that we have witnessed at MC12. In light of this, we  would like to  stress that the outcomes of 
MC12 should be implemented in a way that is satisfactory to all.  After the summer break, it is our 
collective responsibility to speed up the process of the implementation of all elements of the package 
on WTO response to the em ergencies particularly, the Ministerial Declaration on the Emergency 
Response to Food Insecurity, the Ministerial Decision on World Food Programme (WFP) Food 
Purchases Exemptions from Export Prohibitions or Restrictions, the Ministerial Declaration on the 
WTO Response to the COVID -19 Pandemic and Preparedness for Future Pandemics, and the  
Ministerial Decision on the Agreement on Trade -related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights.  
2.125.   Having said that , let me now move to highlight the  Arab Group's views in c ertain MC12 
outcomes. On WTO reform , we are happy of the agreement reached by our Ministers at MC12 on a 
process for addressing reform of the WTO to improve all its functions through an open, transparent 
and inclusive process and to submit decisions on ref orm to the Thirteenth  WTO Ministerial 
Conference. We are also happy with our Ministers ' commitment to conducting discussions on WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  addressing challenges and concerns with respect to the WTO's dispute settlement system with a 
view to having a fully and well -functioning system accessible to all Members by 2024.  On fisheries 
subsidies , we welcome the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies . With this Agreement, we have the 
opportunity to deliver on a major SDG, that of putting an end to subsidies that contribute to 
overcapacity and overfishing , as well as illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing.  On agriculture,  
we stress the paramount importance of agriculture to our economies. We  are all aware that the 
issues surrounding agriculture are not easy to reconcile. But w e would urge all Members to work 
closely with each other after  the summer break and strive for concrete outcomes at MC13.  On 
accession , we commend the commitment by our Ministers at MC12 to facilitate the conclusion of 
ongoing accessions, especially for le ast-developed countries fully in line with the General Council 
Guidelines on LDC Accessions, and to provide technical assistance, where appropriate, including in 
the post -accession phase.  Finally, the Arab Group remains committed to work constructively 
post-MC12 and towards meaningful outcomes in MC13 that would serve the interests of all 
WTO Members.  
2.126.   The representative of Bangladesh  delivered  the following statement:  
2.127.   Bangladesh aligns with the statement delivered on behalf of the LDCs.  As we discuss the 
implementation matters of MC12 mandates, in addition to celebrating the success, we must admit 
our disappointment in some key procedural issues during  MC12. Bangladesh commends the 
Director -General for candidly confessing this in her opening re marks at the HoDs meeting on 7 July 
in JOB/GC/314 that there were gaps in communication and that we could have done better. Since 
this is the first formal meeting of the GC after MC12, and as the Chair has kindly guided, the 
statement of Bangladesh deliver ed on 7 July at the H ODs level meeting regarding the process of 
MC12  will be reflected in the minutes of this meeting . Bangladesh looks forward to working with all 
Members and the Chairs of different WTO bodies, on implementing the MC12 outcomes , including  
the issues of agriculture, food security, e-commerce work programme, services, WTO Reform, 
development issues, fisheries subsidies, TRIPS Waiver, WTO Response to Pandemic and so on. My 
delegation requests Members to also prioriti ze the issues of the LDCs particularly as reflected in 
paragraph 8 and the LDC graduation in paragraph 5 of the MC12 outcome document as we continue 
our work after the summer break.  
2.128.   The representative of Indonesia  delivered  the following statement:  
2.129.   The MC12 outcomes have become our prominent achievement, but this is not  the end of  the 
story. T he time for celebration and excitement should not make us f orget our work to implement 
the MC12 mandates. The most important part of it is to ensure that these outcomes benefit our 
people at home, are workable and implementable, as well as address the challenges faced by 
Members, particularly developing Members an d LDCs.  On the Decision on the TRIPS Agreement, we 
should ensure equitable access to countermeasures through the extension of the Decision on the 
TRIPS Agreement to therapeutics and diagnostics this December. With such a short deadline, this 
issue should b e on top of our agenda this year. I will further elaborate this matter under the 
dedicated item of the agenda . On the Decision on Fisheries Subsidies, we need to continue our work 
to close the gaps on the remaining key issues to achieve a comprehensive agr eement, such as 
disciplining harmful subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing, while including 
appropriate and effective special and differential treatment for developing Members and LDCs.  
Furthermore, the adoption last month will be meani ngless if Members are left with ambiguities and 
uncertainties upon regarding the ratification process. Therefore, with a view to facilitate  the domestic 
ratification process, we believe that the next step is to review and provide clarity for Members on 
several legal understanding s, such as consistency of Article 7 with Rule 19 of the Financial 
Regulation.  Following the Agreement reached by Ministers on the Moratorium on Customs Duties 
and Work Programme on E–Commerce , our work in reaching consensus on th e scope, definition and 
impact of the customs duties should be carried out as soon as possible. It is imperative for Members 
to have a clear understanding on the longstanding impact of the moratorium, particularly to 
developing country Members . Indonesia i s of the view that the focused work on this matter will be 
crucial to address developmental aspect surrounding the digital trade. Following our deliberation on 
WTO reform at MC12, Members have to focus on the efforts to revive the proper functioning of all  
WTO pillars, particularly in the dispute settlement system. Restoring the WTO two -tier dispute 
settlement system is important to maintain the relevance of the rules -based multilateral trading 
system. And last but not least, in agriculture , although we are  unable to reach outcomes at MC12, 
we need to continue the negotiations based on the existing mandates. I will elaborate Indonesia 's 
view on this issue under agenda item 3 . WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.130.   The representative of Nepal  delivered  the following statement:  
2.131.   My delegation wishes  to refer to the statement delivered at the Heads of Delegation meeting 
held on 7 July and reiterates that Nepal heartly welcomes the Geneva package adopted at MC12. 
However, my delegation wishes to register displeasure in the process at the final stage, w hich has 
also been mentioned by the D irector -General  at the beginning of the 7 July meeting and as circulated 
in document JOB/GC/314 – JOB/TNC/104. I also regret to note that the Geneva package concluded 
without any decision on an LDC-specific issue. Nepal  commends all Members for acknowledging the 
particular challenges that graduation presents, including the loss of trade -related international 
support measures as they leave the LDC category. Members have recognized the role that certain 
measures in the WTO  can play in facilitating smooth and sustainable transition for these Members 
after graduation from the LDC category. In this context, we need to have a clear work plan to take 
this matter forward.  WTO reform has become the most important and urgent matter  for enabling 
the institution to function as per the preamble and provisions of the Marrakesh Agreement as well 
as by taking into account the changing context of the global trading system. In this regard, my 
delegation would like to welcome paragraph 3 of the MC12 o utcome document. Trade is dynamic 
and ever changing that requires needful adjustments in our mindset, laws and practices in order for 
us to fully realize rule -based, transparent, predictable, inclusive and fair multilateral trading system. 
While implementing the declaration, my delegation expects the process to be fully inclusive, 
participatory, transparent, and Member -driven by respecting and taking into account the preamble 
of the Marrakesh Agreement and fundamental principle of mu ltilateralism. Levelling the playing field 
in legal architecture, accession practices and WTO functioning is essential.  My delegation stands 
ready to engage in the entire reform process and contribute to concluding it in a timely and inclusive 
manner. The COVID -19 pandemic has been challenging the world and the number  of infected people  
has started rising again. The future is more challenging for LDCs in both saving lives of poor people 
and continu ing the  socio-economic development process.  Therefore, the M inisterial Declaration on 
the WTO Response to the COVID -19 Pandemic and Preparedness for Future Pandemics should be 
fully implemented in a timely manner by taking into account the severity of the LDCs and LLDCs 
especially in recovery and building forward b etter from the pandemic.  Chair, you can count on 
Nepal 's full support in expediting the implementation of the Geneva Package.  
2.132.   The representative of Guyana , on behalf of the CARICOM Group , delivered  the following 
statement:  
2.133.   On agenda item 2, on the E-Commerce Work Programme and Moratorium , the CARICOM 
Group reiterates the importance of electronic commerce particularly as it relates to our ability to 
engage meaningfully in international trade. The Group is pleased that at MC12 Members ev entually 
coalesced around a Ministerial Decision relating to reinvigorating the Work Programme in line with 
its development dimension. We also welcome the mandated intensified discussions on the 
moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions as w ell as the decision on its renewal. In 
this regard, the Group has taken good note of the concerns raised by delegations in the lead up and 
at MC12 and stands read y to continue to engage in good faith dialogue on the subject. As it relates 
to fisheries subs idies and the ministerial outcome, after twenty years of negotiation we have reached 
an interim agreement on curbing harmful subsidies to illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, 
overfished stocks and the prohibition on subsidies to fishing in unregula ted high seas. The CARICOM 
Group commends all Members for their hard work and dedication in this regard. However, we must 
continue our work on the prohibition of harmful subsidies that contribute to overfishing and 
overcapacity, with effective and appropri ate special and differential treatment for developing and 
LDC Members . This must be done for us to have a holistic and targeted approach to fulfilling the 
mandate under SDG 14.6. The CARICOM Group stands ready to continue the discussion on the basis 
of WT/ MIN(22)/W/20. We continue to study the Ministerial Decision in our capitals and will share 
further reflections once our regional consultative process is completed. In the meantime, we believe 
that the Negotiating Group on Rules  should undertake a process o f review or legal scrubbing of the 
text, as is standard practice on the negotiations on international treaties. On WTO reform, we 
welcome paragraph 3 of the Outcome Document. Developing Members  have, for some time , called 
for reforms that level the playing  field between developed and developing Members  and make trade  
function better for them. We recogni ze that , in the lead up to MC12 , there were wide divergences 
on the process for WTO reform. With limited time between now and MC13, we must work 
expeditiousl y in the General Council and its subsidiary bodies to define the elements of WTO reform. 
We envision that this could inter alia  include elements related to transparency and the restoration 
of the WTO two -tier dispute settlement system. We will also work to  bring forward issues of specific 
importance to CARICOM . On food insecurity, the CARICOM Group strongly supports the decision to WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  have a work programme in the Committee on Agriculture to support the needs of LDCs and NFIDCs, 
and the special effort to increa se the response of critical level food instability that exists in our 
countries. The need to strengthen agricultural production and the domestic food security is critical 
in emergencies. Our Group aligns its statement to that delivered on behalf of the ACP  Group.  
2.134.   The representative of Hong Kong, China  delivered  the following statement:  
2.135.   On agenda item 2, on fisheries subsidies, Hong Kong, China is delighted that we have finally 
managed to agree on multilateral rules on eliminating harmful fisheries subsidies. The Agreement 
demonstrates that the negotiation function of the WTO is alive and well, and that the rules -based 
multilateral trading system is capable of delivering results on new subjects of importance to 
economies around the world.  Hong Kong, China is committed to making timely preparation to ratify 
the Agreement and hope that all Members will keep up the momentum and act early to bring this 
meaningful Agreement into force and get ready for the next phase of fisheries negotiations . On 
e-commerc e, the extension of the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmission also 
shows that we, at the WTO, are able to respond to the call of the business communities around the 
world, including MSMEs. That said, it is abundantly clear that our work o n this important matter 
must continue.  Hong Kong, China all along considers the moratorium a key measure contributing to 
maintaining a stable, predictable and conducive e -commerce environment. We remain committed to 
reinvigorating the work under the Work P rogramme and intensifying discussions on the moratorium 
as agreed in the MC12 Ministerial Decision, with a view to coming up with a permanent solution by 
MC13. We are open -minded to the format in which the discussions are to be conducted.  Lastly,  on 
the di spute settlement system , we cannot emphasi ze enough the importance of restoring the full 
function of the two -tier dispute settlement system which is a key pillar of the WTO rules -based 
multilateral trading system. Hong Kong, China would like to reiterate o ur commitment to engaging 
constructively in any discussion with other Members for the necessary changes and improvements 
to the existing system with a view to restoring a fully and well -functioning dispute settlement system 
accessible to all Members by 202 4 as denoted in the MC12 outcome document . 
2.136.   The representative of Mauritania , on behalf of the LDC Group , delivered  the following 
statement:  
2.137.   The LDC Group welcomes the results on the TRIPS Waiver and the MC12 response to food 
security in the context of the World Food Programme as well as the Fisheries Subsidies outcome. On 
Paragraph 8 of the MC12 outcome document , regarding the instructions given by Ministers 
concerning the services waiver,  DFQF and rules of origin, each of these matters should be discussed 
under a specific agenda item in the relevant WTO Bodies  and work should be continued within the se 
competent bodies as mentioned in the MC12 outcome document . All of these matters  should be 
taken up with MC13 in mind.  We should not waste any time.  We should urgently fulfil these LDC -
related mandates.  The MC12 outcome document also mention s WTO reform . We are in favour of 
this being done within the context of the General Council and we urge Me mbers to take account of 
the proposals of the LDCs in JOB/GC/223/Rev.1. In this connection, the LDC Group also aligns itself 
with the submission in WT/GC/W/778/Rev.5 dealing with item 9. The process must be carried out 
by Members in an open, transparent an d inclusive way. Inclusiveness also means taking into account 
the interest of all Members , which includes the development priorities of LDCs . In this regard, we 
thank the work done on market access  for LDCs  including our recommendations b eing taken into 
account in the context of WTO reform . We urge all Members to deal with these issues in a broader 
systemic manner to make the work of our Organization more relevant and more pertinent. This 
should improve the holding of Ministerial Conference s in an inclusive, transparent and open manner 
– not through small groups . All of us should be able to participate in the discussion s concerning the 
significant decisions that are up for adoption . On food security and the decision concerning the WFP, 
we welco me the fact that these proposals, and the wording suggested, were reflected in the text, 
thanks to the active participation of our LDC Focal Point . The response of the WTO to the pandemic 
is a huge priority given the critical role of trade in preventing ac cess to essential goods in the event 
of an emergency. We need to revise this system every year to check on possible lacunae and to look 
at potential challenges with which developing  and LDC Members  are confronted with. We urge the 
relevant Chairs of WTO bodies to look specifically at the needs of the LDCs and to keep an area open 
for discussion o n these questions. The Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies is a first in the WTO. We 
also need to conclude the unfinished negotiations i n order to eliminate IUU fishin g and  address 
overfishing, among others . The LDCs have proposed texts in this regard . The LDC Group stands  
ready to commit actively in this field which needs further work and action  and, in particular,  urges 
Members to take into account the LDCs' needs whe n discussing the fisheries trust fund.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.138.   The representative of Vanuatu , on behalf of the Pacific Group , delivered  the following 
statement:  
2.139.   I make this statement on behalf of the Pacific Group and align with the ACP.  A special 
welcome to Ambassador of Samoa, H .E. Nella Tavita Levy, a new addition to the Pacific family. Since 
this is the first  meeting of the  General Council after MC12, the Pacific Group welcomes the significant 
achievements made at MC12. These achievemen ts have enabled WTO to respond to the pressing 
challenges of our time, notably the COVID -19 pandemic and the unfolding food crisis.  MC12 was 
also able to deliver partially on some longstanding issues, notably the fisheries subsidies. In going 
forward on th e work of the TNC , the Pacific Group wishes to highlight the following:  On fisheries 
subsidies, we were naturally disappointed that MC12 was unable to agree on a comprehensive 
agreement. Hence, for the Group, the completion of negotiations on fisheries sub sidies, to include 
overcapacity and overfishing remains a priority. These negotiations must include, appropriate and 
effective special and differential treatment, as an integral part of the outcome.  Only then, will the 
fisheries subsidies agreement be cons idered credible and fully deliver the SDG 14.6 mandate.  We 
urge Members to step up this work, so that clear recommendations can be made to MC13 in line 
with the MC12 decision. On agriculture, Members must reflect on finding innovative ways to bridge 
differences in positions.  The food crisis may continue to deepen with the onset of the climate crisis 
we are facing, that will threaten future food security.  We must find solutions to progress work to 
ensure a fair and efficient agricultural trading system, taki ng into account the situation of NFIDCs. 
Finally, work must continue on development issues and making SDT precise, effective and 
operational to support economic diversification of developing countries , including small island 
developing states.  The Pacific Group remains open and ready to engage in these and other priorities 
of interest to us.  
2.140.   On MC12 implementation issues , the Pacific Group thanks you, the DG and the WTO 
Secretariat for the circulation of the document RD/WTO/13 , which sets out the main deci sions from 
MC12 and an implementation matrix. This document is very useful in guiding small Members like us 
on the implementation priorities. While all the mandates from MC12 are important, the Pacific Group 
underlines the following priorities:  First, the ratification of the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement to 
prohibit subsidies to IUU fishing and to overfished stocks. At the same time, negotiations on 
outstanding issues, including overcapacity and overfishing and special and differential treatment, 
must be stepped up to enable concrete recommendations to MC13 in line with MC12 decision.  
Second, as highly import -dependent Members, we underline the importance of ensuring access to 
essential supplies such as food and medicines at affordable prices. We therefore  support the : 
implementation of the WTO response to COVID -19, including future preparedness and paragraph 8 
of the TRIPS Agreement decision to extend the TRIPS waiver to therapeutics and diagnostics within 
6 months must be advanced. We support the Room Doc ument put forward by the co-sponsors as a 
practical work plan to deliver this mandate by December 2022 ; and the i mplementation of the 
declarations on Food Security and SPS. Third, the reinvigoration of the Work Programme on 
E-commerce , including its develo pment dimension . This should focus on addressing the digital divide 
that developing countries face, s uch as weak infrastructure, weak regulatory environment, limited 
skills, low levels of access to internet, high connectivity costs and weak e -payment syste ms. Fourth, 
we support the work to progress LDC issues including duty free quota free (DFQF) market access 
and operationalization of the services waiver. Finally, Chair the Pacific Group welcomes the inclusion 
of Trade and Environment in the Outcomes docum ent, and we hope to engage in finding ways that 
the MTS can contribute effective solutions to the climate crisis and other environmental concerns.  
2.141.   The representative of South Africa  delivered  the following statement:  
2.142.   We associate ourselves with the statem ent by the Africa Group and the ACP. South Africa 
believes that the TNC remains an important forum within its mandate to take forward the DDA issues 
and we look forward to dedicated TNC sessions which remain critical. In addition to the statement 
we made on 7  July, while it is laudable that we had a successful MC12, we need to acknowledge that 
on the most important issues, we delivered partial outcomes. We therefore have our work cut -out 
for us as we prepare for MC13, we should therefore not be complacent. Giv en the number of 
challenges facing the global economy, we need to reflect on the role of the WTO in inclusive global 
economic recovery. It is for this reason that South Africa feels strongly that the WTO must deliver 
on its development mandate, including t he outstanding issues in the DDA which remain key to an 
inclusive MTS. On agriculture, we need to ensure that the work programme going forward delivers 
on the food security and livelihoods agenda in more practical and tangible ways. It is not enough to 
have declarations on this critical issue. There are a number of proposals, including the Africa Group, WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  ACP and G33 proposal on PSH, and the various Africa Group proposals on the various negotiation 
issues that provide a solid basis to continue our work. Effec tive disciplines on trade distorting 
domestic support are long overdue and the inconclusive discussions in this regard contribute to the 
current imbalances in global trade. On fisheries, we have made good progress on the IUU and 
overfished pillar, there is  still a lot of work ahead of us to conclude the negotiations on the overfishing 
and overcapacity pillar. We must ensure that the outcome targets distant water fishing and adheres 
to common but differentiated responsibility which must continue to be the un derpinning principle on 
issues that deal with global commons. Ultimately , the agreement must ensure that those who are 
responsible for the state of the oceans take greater responsibility and provide sufficient policy space 
to developing countries to grow t heir fisheries sector in a sustainable manner. We echo the statement 
by the ACP on the need for legal scrubbing and this does not need to be a lengthy process but is 
necessary. On WTO reform, it is laudable that we now brought this issue firmly on the WTO agenda. 
For South Africa, if WTO reform is to be successful, it must result in inclusive trade and this 
necessitates a development centred reform agenda. Importantly, the process must rebalance trade 
rules to provide policy space for African industrialisat ion. On e -commerce, trade policy is a national 
imperative, we need to recognize that the moratorium was envisaged as a temporary initiative and 
we need to ensure that the rules at the WTO support inclusive digital industrialisation. We appreciate 
the discu ssions at MC12, including the recognition that the moratorium at some point has to end 
and as South Africa we see the current extension as the last extension that gives the private sector 
sufficient time to adjust in preparation for its termination so we c an have access just in all other 
sectors to the use of tariffs as an important industrial policy tool. The reinvigoration of the work 
programme, especially its development dimension remains our important priority.  
2.143.   The representative of Peru delivered  the following statement:  
2.144.   I would like to refer to four particular matters, bearing in mind the statement we made  on 
7 July. First of all, on WTO reform, including the mandate granted by Ministers to ensure that we 
have a fully operational dispute settlement sy stem by 2024, we consider this to be a critical issue. 
It is of a very systemic nature, and we really must ensure that we get going at a sustained pace on 
this. Otherwise, we run the risk of not having met the deadline that has been set. This would 
serious ly compromise one of the main pillars of the multilateral trading system. On fisheries 
subsidies, I would urge all Members to ratify as quickly as possible the Agreement. This is an appeal 
that Peru made through its declaration in the context of the latest  Ocean Conference of the United 
Nations alongside Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Uruguay. Peru welcomes 
the partial results obtained. They have great value and show great potential with respect to what 
they provide us with respect t o the sustainability of our marine resources. This result is also 
significant because it shows that we are in a position to meet the challenges of our times. I would 
like to take this opportunity to stress that this is an opportunity; I say opportunity bec ause we have 
not yet reached the end of the road. We still have to ensure that we implement what has been 
agreed to date. The true value of what was agreed by our Ministers will only be shown when we 
have a judicious implementation of the Agreement in a tr ansparent and properly monitored fashion. 
We also have to consider the next stage of these negotiations on disciplines which have to do with 
overfishing and overcapacity. These are very significant areas as they will allow for a full, fair and 
genuinely ef fective treaty which will help us meet the goals we have set. This is something that we 
also agreed in our joint statement as Latin American countries represented at the UN Ocean 
Conference. We should ensure that we have an agreement that is not just an ag reement on paper. 
We have to ensure the sustainability of our oceans. Third, we would like to refer to the agricultural 
reform question. We welcome what we have achieve d with respect to addressing  food insecurity and 
the extension of prohibitions on restri ctions with respect to exports that are under the aegis of the 
World Food Programme. We have decisions that show that we can deal with real problems in the 
real world. I am for instance thinking of the need to provide food to the most vulnerable of people 
or trade facilitation and the provision of food and agricultural inputs. This result was underlined when 
the Director -General mentioned this in her statement alongside the FAO , the IMF, the World Bank 
and the World Food Programme. We must echo those who ha ve expressed concerns that we have 
not yet managed to reform agricultural trade. We must ensure that we redouble our efforts in this 
area because we need to ensure that we have a fairer, more transparent, predictable and resilient 
international agricultura l system that is able to provide us with sustainable development and food 
security. Fourth, on e -commerce, Peru would like to thank Members who have shown flexibility on 
the question of the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions. We would  like to 
reiterate our support for the moratorium. It has allowed our micro - and small enterprises to make 
some headways in respect to making their supply international and being a part of global value 
chains. If we had not taken this approach, it would ha ve undermined their competitiveness, WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  burdened them with additional costs and may possibly have slowed down the digital economy which 
would cause problems for online trading. We welcome the decision contained in document 
WT/MIN(22)/32, and we would reiterat e our commitment to actively participate in the periodic 
reviews and discussions in relevant WTO bodies. This will allow us to ensure that we have a specific 
approach to these matters with a view to 2023.  
2.145.   The representative of Panama  delivered  the following statement:  
2.146.   Regarding agenda item 1 and 2, Panama is of the opinion that to prepare the road ahead, it 
is important quickly to set work programs for our future work. WPs should not be limited to include 
subsidiary bodies with work mandated in  MC12. All special sessions, including rules for fisheries and 
agriculture, should also develop WPs to revive negotiations.  As my Minister mentioned in the opening 
informal session at MC12, it is important to build trust among Members to move forward on particular 
issues or sectors, if progress cannot be made on all issues or sectors in parallel. To accomplish this, 
we must move away from simply restating own priorities without doing more than saying one is 
willing to talk about others ' interes ts. Conferences at a Ministerial or high -level are also an important 
tool for reviving negotiations. Again, Members must move away from saying simply what they want, 
to saying what they are willing to give in exchange for what they want. Panama looks forwa rd to 
being an active participant in any consultations on reinvigorating negotiations and regular work in 
the WTO.  
2.147.   The representative of Nigeria  delivered  the following statement:  
2.148.   At the outset, Nigeria wishes to associate itself with the statement deliver ed on behalf of the 
African Group. We also wish to associate ourselves with the statement delivered regarding the JSI 
on Investment Facilitation and e -commerce respectively and we continue to encourage Members , 
particularly those from Africa , to join these  initiatives so we can collectively deliver outcomes that 
would complement the AfCFTA. We thank everyone that worked tirelessly towards ensuring a 
successful MC12. We commend the DG for her remarkable leadership which fostered the delivery of 
unprecedented  package of agreements and declarations at MC12. We also thank the DG for her 
report. We take note of her recommendations and wish to assure the WTO m embership that Nigeria 
would engage constructively in the post -MC12 discussions and negotiations to foster  the building of 
consensus . Regarding implementation matters from MC12 mandate s, we wish to inform that Nigeria 
has commenced internal processes for timely implementation of MC12 decisions. We would be 
depositing our instrument of acceptance of the protoco l amending Annex 1A to the Marrakesh 
Agreement for the insertion of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies with the DG, as Depositary in 
record time. This for us is both a credibility and reputational issue. We thank the WTO Secretariat 
for circulating the m atrix of action plan on post -MC12 works contained in document RD/WTO/13. 
We would continue to engage constructively in this and other area of works not contained in the 
matrix , especially the broader agriculture negotiations where we are seeking outcomes that would 
address the structural causes of food insecurity and unlock Developing Countries Productive 
capacities.  In conclusion, we wish to draw the attention of Members to the Nigerian proverb aptly 
captured in the statement of the C oA SS Chair,  Ambassador Gloria of Costa Rica, "fine words do not 
produce food ". Therefore, we encourage Members to come prepared in September to engage 
intensively and constructively with flexibility to foster the building of consensus in all areas of WTO 
works.  
2.149.   The representative of Ukraine  delivered  the following statement:  
2.150.   As highlighted by many, MC12 was a success. Please use this momentum in all possible 
efforts; in our opinion, the combination of Ambassadors ' and Ministers ' engagement created this 
momentum. There fore, we need to explore this modus operandi  between the Ministerial 
Conferences . I want to explore in greater detail the notion , mentioned by the Ambassador of Norway,  
that if trade topics are not discussed here, they will be addressed elsewhere.  As you know, with the 
UN's support, Ukraine and Türkiye created an initiative to resume the logistics of cereal and fertilizers 
out of the Ukrainian Black Sea ports.  Unfortunat ely, the Russian Federation  is trying to present  this 
initiative as something like sovereign trade depending on the grace of Russian murders in military 
uniform.  As the Russian Federation  shelled the Odesa seaport immediately after signing the 
initiative , it reminded  us of the colonial trade under gunshots . All of us believe that these  are the 
matters of the past, not the future.  This is one example of attempts to deteriorate the WTO rulebook 
and fundamental trading freedoms.  Current challenges - security, climate change, pandemics and 
food shortages - prompt a more active role of governments that tend to intervene in trade.  Our WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  recipe for tackling the challenges is to enhance the efficiency of private -based trade with coordination  
with governments, not inte rvention . To this end, we need more vital rules respected by everyone to 
ensure the development of agriculture.  The MC12 outcomes and deliberations at the Conference 
reflect the general direction of further works on agriculture and food security. The state ments and 
ideas expressed during MC12 are the best material for the development of an ambitious trade -
centered  policy framework for the development of sustainable agriculture, especially in NFIDC s and 
LDCs. To conclude, the combined  involvement of Ambassadors and Ministers in advance of the next 
MC is the best solution for finding brave and efficient solutions for the issues on the WTO agenda.  We 
are ready to support the Chairs in the facilitation of finding consensus between WTO Mem bers for 
all the important topics on the WTO agenda . 
2.151.   The representative of Sri Lanka  delivered  the following statement:  
2.152.   I take this opportunity to make a brief intervention covering one of the key MC12 outcomes, 
which is Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, whic h requires an urgent attention. On item 2 , we take note 
of the strong calls urging WTO Members to ratify the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement (FSA). While 
the domestic processes are underway for Members to work towards the swift implementation of the 
FSA, the re are a few issues that require the urgent attention of the WTO to facilitate the rapid 
ratification of the Agreement to enable its entry into force.  Based on past practices both in the WTO 
as well as after the conclusion of regional trade agreements, a l egal review or legal scrubbing is a 
standard course of action. This process typically occurs after the negotiations are complete and with 
the implementation of the final legal texts of trade agreements into Members ' domestic law. The 
process allows Members  to vet the text and address the legal inconsistencies, if any, with a view to 
ensuring internal consistency of the Agreement , e.g., consistent use of terms throughout the text; 
legal certainty so that the Agreement is detailed and clear enough so that all  signatories understand 
the text in the same way including when it is read or interpreted; and ensures linguistic consistency 
over the texts produced in different languages.  Members have a small window of opportunity to 
address these legal inconsistencies.  If they are not addressed urgently, there are risks of further 
delays in the domestic ratification procedures of Members where these ambiguities are most likely 
to be picked up when Members scrutinize the FSA for consistency with international law and 
Members' other international obligations.  Legal scrubbing will also prevent additional 
implementation -related delays, as well as costly and time -consuming disputes on language that 
could easily be resolved through the review or scrubbing process. It is respon sible rulemaking for a 
review to arrive at a further enhancement of Members ' common understanding of the FSA while 
noting that the final text was the result of small group and Green Room meetings at MC12. The FSA 
was not fully assessed by most Members befo re it was adopted. It is also worth pointing out that 
there is no aide memoire  on the articles that were modified just prior to, or at, MC12.  In summary, 
it is expected that a prompt legal scrubbing process ensue in the WTO to facilitate the smooth 
domesti c legal ratification processes and implementation of the FSA. Convening the Negotiating 
Group on Rules  on an urgent basis is warranted for this purpose.  With a view to expeditiously 
ratifying the Agreement, a decision shall be taken to create a Preparatory  Committee, which shall 
first carry out a legal examination of the text to ensure consistency and legal certainty, and where 
necessary, correct or clarify the text of the Agreement. The General Council shall adopt any proposed 
amendments recommended by the  Preparatory Committee.  My delegation is strongly of the view 
that such expeditious actions by WTO Members  are urgently needed that will enable Sri Lanka and 
other countries to go through their national ratification process and join the Agreement as early as 
possible.  
2.153.   The representative of the United States  delivered  the following statement:  
2.154.   I have couple of comments on the compilation document that is the subject matter of the 
second agenda item. We appreciate the Secretariat putting it together. We ourse lves had put 
together a similar document just to try to compile and have a good sense of what the work ahead 
is. But we do view the compilation as just a compilation of the things that we agreed to do. Some 
of them are things that we are already doing. So,  we have a little bit of issue when we start think of 
this as a mandate. I was not a fan of the word "mandate" before I got here. The more I sit here, I 
have become even less of a fan of the word "mandate" because it clearly means different things to 
different people. It creates this notion that we have agreed to an outcome when what we really have 
agreed, for the most part, in the outcome documents, which again we should celebrate, is work. We 
agreed on work that we are willing to do.  Since I want to be ve ry clear, we are not walking away 
from what we have agreed , but we view it as work that we have set out for ourselves which is not 
the complete universe of the work that we have in front of us. There are only certain things that we WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  were able to agree and t here are many others, some of which have been mentioned here for different 
reasons, where there was no agreement, no consensus but we know that we have work to do. One 
of our concerns with focusing on this compilation being the universe of mandates that we re agreed 
to at MC12 is that we are expected to spend our energy on that , and not spend energy on other 
things that are important. I have things that are important to me, and everybody else has things 
that are important to them. We had this conversation in  the reform context – that this is Member -
driven,  and it should be that Members are able to bring to the table the work that they think is 
valuable. We are not walking away from what was agreed. We just want to be very careful on how 
we refer to it and how  we talk about it. We do not want it to become the only thing that we focus 
on as we head to MC13.  
2.155.   On that point, we totally agree and have heard several Members talk about this concept of 
de-dramatizing Ministerial Conferences. To me, certain things are t ied because this should be about 
regular work and we should be working towards whatever work we have in front of us and whatever 
work we need to do. But we should not start already putting up a Christmas tree and putting all the 
Christmas ornaments on the tree and try to deliver a big package for MC13  - whenever that is. We 
again fully agree that we should be thinking about Ministerials. We can have Ministerials about 
getting our Ministers together to talk about their visions for the institution , but not ne cessarily to 
deliver the next big package. If there are things to deliver, then, great. But if we start setting 
ourselves up for the big circus event for MC13, I do think that that hinders the actual work that we 
need to do – the day-to-day work that happe ns and that should be happening in Committees. In 
echoing the Ambassador of Singapore's comments about needing to think differently, work 
differently and act differently, this is what we are trying to do and think through as we start, not 
necessarily headi ng down the path to MC13, but looking at the work that we need to do in the future.  
In the list that we put together of the work arising out of MC12, one of the things that I had put on 
the list, because it had been mentioned by several delegations, is thi s issue that has come up a 
couple of times today of the legal scrub and language verification of the Fisheries Subsidies 
Agreement. Certainly, in free trade agreement practice, we do legal scrubs,  and we do language 
verifications. We are where we are on th e Fisheries Subsidies Agreement , but that should not prevent 
a review to make sure that there are no mistakes. Oftentimes you find those things when you do 
the language verification. So, I am a little bit unclear as to where we are on that issue because it 
has been raised several times a nd I am not sure whether anything had been scheduled on that -I 
did ask my team in Washington who works on this issue, and the answer was "we have not heard 
anything". It does not have to be long. It does not have to be complex. But it is an exercise that is 
worth doing. This should be part of reform. These are legal documents,  and we should treat them 
as such. They are important and it is somewhat amazing that we are not in the habit of doing that 
kind of work and taking the time to do it here. That is som ething we should think about.  
2.156.   The representative of Ecuador  delivered  the following statement:  
2.157.   I would like to reiterate that my country welcomes the agreements achieved during the 
Ministerial Conference. In particular, the WTO has been able to reach conse nsus on a declaration 
concerning food security and the response on food and health. This is a very urgent subject on the 
world's agenda. The work dynamics in our Organization, however , meant that we spent too much 
time finding a solution to the COVID -19 pr oblem, in terms of food security but also because of the 
crisis in supply as well as imports. This has been caused by the war against Ukraine. Ecuador 
welcomes the paragraph on WTO reform in the MC12 outcome document , and we are grateful for 
the work done to come up with a comprehensive document which contains a paragraph on gender 
and MSMEs. We consider it essential to work jointly and in a constructive spirit in order to use a 
trade perspective to the solution of problems that are affecting the whole plan et, such as gender 
equality, sustainable development and contributing against climate change, pollution and the loss of 
biodiversity. With regard to fisheries subsidies, the first steps have been taken for the ratification of 
the Agreement. We make an appe al for all Members to do the same. Particular work is needed, and 
perseverance as has been shown already by the Director -General. We consider it of particular 
importance to look at coastal states and to look at the conservation of a huge marine reserve in the 
Galapagos. Although much has to be done to achieve a broader agreement, we are ready to 
contribute constructively for that purpose. On this point, I should like to mention what was already 
mentioned by the US in terms of receiving legal information on instruments. That is a very important 
topic. We believe it is important to pay attention to all the points in the completed documents and 
the decisions taken at the Ministerial so that no document or agreement is left behind. Ultimately, 
this is in respons e to an understanding of the Ministerial package and consequently implementation 
should take the same positive line of action that has been agreed on by all Members on all subjects, WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  and the particular components in each and every one of them. Although agre ement was not reached 
on many subjects relating to trade in agriculture, which are something very much lacking, Ecuador 
considers that precisely for this reason the WTO should without delay begin to deal with these issues 
again. We consider it positive to look at the proposal by the DG concerning a retreat or time -out to 
think about this subject to see what is working, what is not working, and what can be done to make 
a constructive contribution to this debate. We do not need to say more regarding  the impor tance of 
agriculture for us, and I would say that this is particularly true for developing countries such as 
Ecuador. Several Latin American countries passed a declaration in this connection during the 
Ministerial  Conference . We need a response to that. We  are major agricultural producing countries, 
which provide global food security. Sixteen Members of the region endorsed that statement. We 
express our commitment as Ecuador and join with other countries to deal with problems of trade 
and agriculture in a s pirit of solidarity and international cooperation. Finally, as mentioned already 
during the 7 July meeting, from my delegation's experience during the Ministerial, as also that of 
other Members, we consider it timely to revisit the way in which the work pr ocedures take place in 
our Organi zation, in particular at Ministerial Conferences. The experience of the Ministerial helps us 
improve transparency in line with what should be done in a multilateral agency. Each person should 
be able to contribute construct ively. That is essential. It is important to look at the lessons learned 
and to take specific measures in order to improve these procedures.  
2.158.   The representative of Mauritius  delivered  the following statement:  
2.159.   I express my appreciation to you, Chair, for having handled a very difficult process along 
with your predecessor Ambassador Castillo, and all the other heads of the negotiating groups and 
the Secretariat. It was not easy. We thank the DG, the DDGs, the Chi ef of Staff and all the team in 
fact, who tried to keep us abreast of the consultations as they were proceeding and tried to share 
with us what was happening. It was not always easy for the DG, we realised, to take different 
perspectives and try to carve t hem into an outcome. But she spoke her truth as usual, and we spoke 
our truth. And we still found a way of turning this into an outcome. So, we thank you DG for that 
energy and on moving situations that you want to get into a determination, thank you for t hat. A lot 
has been said this morning, and I think we are especially hearing a lot of lists of what should be a 
priority, what should be coming out of our discussions. I think we should not underestimate what 
happened at MC12. It was certainly an important  step and a reaffirmation of multilateralism. Now 
speaking  about  WIPO, we saw the same reaffirmation of multilateralism after two decades, and I 
think we are on a good trend.  But this is only a first step. A second step will have to be at MC13. As 
far as m y delegation is concerned, we will not go into a list of things, but we want to say that we 
see two sets of deliverables and that our approach should remain practical and realistic at all times. 
First, there are substantive deliverables based on the sugges tions made by the delegations this 
morning. These deliverables must at all times be measured against the contribution that they will 
make to the common good and against the sustainable development goals. We cannot do everything, 
but priority should be for those that serve the common good. The second set of deliverables as we 
see it is on process, for example, as what more we should be doing to make the Ministerial process 
more transparent and inclusive.  
2.160.   The representative of Chinese Taipei  delivered  the fo llowing statement:  
2.161.   In addition to the statement that I made at the informal HODs meeting on 7 July, let me add 
one more point about the approach for our future work . For those most difficult issues that we are 
encountering, the extent of our efforts is imp ortant. In this regard, I  echo other colleagues that we 
should be prepared for another round of active and constructive engagements immediately after the 
summer break . But it must also be noted that it is not merely how much time and efforts we devote. 
It could also be about what new approach we can identify to address the difficult issues which we 
were not able to settle based on the existing approach . As suggested by the  Ambassador of 
Singapore : to think differently and act differently.  In this regard, we  welcome the idea of a retreat 
for agriculture. It is a way to develop collegiality among delegations to build up the needed trust. It 
is also a way to search for the approach to properly handle the issues of such nature.  In addition to 
agriculture , Members might want to consider whether certain settings either a format similar to a 
retreat or other useful formats can also be arranged for other important but equally difficult topics, 
such as the OCOF in fisheries subsidies , the e-commerce  moratorium and the work program me, and 
even the emerging issues such as digital economy  and climate change.   WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.162.   The representative of Mexico  delivered  the following statement:  
2.163.   At the 7 July meeting , I made a statement, which I ask to be included in the recor d of today's 
meeting, so I will not repeat my thoughts on the process and outcomes of MC12 or on the substantive 
issues. I would like to echo what the Chair of the General Council said about the importance of 
making a greater effort to make these meetings more efficient. It will be important to rethink them 
with a view to making them considerably shorter.  Considering that it is already the end of July, I will 
allow myself to express something politically incorrect. In its two -and-a-half decades of existence , 
this Organization cannot be accused of talking too little – quite the opposite. Respectfully, my view 
is that, in this Organization, we need to talk less and do more. We have no time to spare; the global 
challenges are as undeniable as they are numerous.  As I understand it, the Chair is open to 
suggestions on how to ensure that meetings of the General Council, and perhaps those of other 
bodies in the Organization, are characterized by a valuable yet still scarce ingredient: brevity.  
2.164.   The representative of  Senegal  delivered  the following statement:  
2.165.   Senegal associates itself with the statements made on behalf of the African, ACP and LDC 
Groups. We are pleased with the results of MC12, and we also welcome the Secretariat document 
which was distributed as RD/W TO/13 which speaks of the implementation of the results of MC12. 
We need, as some delegates have indicated, to focus more on discussions and negotiations on new 
bases concerning outstanding questions, particularly fisheries subsidies, agriculture, and to h ave a 
more complete report on the graduation of LDCs. This question is of great interest to us. Although 
we do acknowledge that paragraph 5 of the MC12 outcome document has a mention of it, no 
particular structure has been given to pursue discussions on th is issue. This is why we encourage 
you to rally round to the proposal made for a work plan on this question between now and MC13.  
2.166.   The representative of Pakistan  delivered  the following statement:  
2.167.   I hear you when you complain about long statements but that, I am afraid is partly 
self-inflicted, since a 1-day TNC prior to the regular GC meetings  seems to have disappeared . We 
perhaps need to discuss that more openly. It seems a bit confusing, to me at least. I would also like 
to take this opportunity to r aise some of the points and ambitions going forward. While most of our 
views on various files are well -known, we will not repeat them here. But  I will say this much:  Files 
that had followed a process throughout which was transparent and inclusive stood the  best chance 
of surviving the rigorous and the pushes and shoves of the Ministerial. So, let us  take that key lesson 
going forward.  The fisheries draft produced needs the usual legal scrubbing as we get on with 
ratification and also get back to the negotia tions on the outstanding issues . We need to earnestly 
engage in work on food insecurities arising in various parts of the world, especially in the Net Food 
Importing Countries. These are triggered by various external shocks that have unfortunately more 
or less coincided over the last couple of years, including conflict.  Sustainability and resilience should 
thus be an important part of any conversation on agriculture. A basic issue of bread and butter!  On 
item 2, we find this matrix (RD/WTO/13 ) to be useful as a Secretariat note indicating areas of work. 
We do realize that these are not conclusive and  are happy to work further on them.  
2.168.   The representative of Russian Federation  delivered  the following statement:  
2.169.   I would like to bring to your attention that some elements of the statements made today by 
a couple of delegations clearly contradict your request as contained in your communication of 8 July. 
They repeat the same politicised stuff that we already heard be fore and evidently aim at using the 
General Council to spread fake information on issues that go beyond its agenda and the WTO 
mandate in general. I kindly ask you, Mr Chairman, to approach those delegations in the context of 
your efforts to streamline the  work of the General Council and to invite them to stop using this body 
as a platform for their biased political propaganda.  On the substance of today's meeting, the success 
of MC12 was indeed our collective achievement. The portfolio of much needed decisi ons adopted at 
the Conference prove d beyond any doubt that the WTO remains relevant and indispensable for 
promoting and regulating international trade. However, we are only halfway there. We need to start 
implementing the adopted decisions as well as launc hing discussions on mandated issues, foremost 
on the reform of the WTO and its dispute settlement system. The Russian Federation highly 
welcomes the Ministerial Decision to launch the negotiating process to address the challenges and 
concerns relating to t he WTO dispute settlement mechanism which was brought to a halt in 
December 2019. Members undertook a commitment to find a solution and to restore a fully and WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  well-functioning system by 2024. For the Russian Federation , these words mostly mean two -tier, 
effective and predictable. This deal is doable but only if the solutions reflect the interests and 
concerns of all Members. In this regard, the process shall be organi zed under the auspices of relevant 
WTO bodies, i.e., be inclusive and transparent. Moreover , we consider that the process and possible 
results should not be linked to negotiations on other issues. In respect of the Agreement on Fisheries 
Subsidies, the Russian Federation  fully agrees that the WTO m embership should make all possible 
efforts to ac celerate the fulfilment of necessary internal procedures and to ratify the Agreement as 
soon as feasible. As regards to the agricultural track, we believe that any discussions on food security 
should be  proceeded  strictly within the mandate of the MC12 Min isterial Declaration on the 
Emergency Response on Food Insecurity. Moving forward on all mandated tracks, it is important to 
keep in mind that a productive MC12 was only possible because we chose to overcome our 
differences and work together for the common  good. The spirit of constructive cooperation should 
be fostered while our work should be carried out in an inclusive and result -oriented manner. In this 
regard, the core principles of the WTO negotiations: openness, inclusiveness and transparency, 
should be diligently upheld. The preparation and the context of MC12 clearly demonstrated that a 
general approach to the negotiating process in this house is in need of serious revision. I am sure 
that for most delegations present here, the situation when a handf ul of countries get together to a 
draft decision while the larger WTO m embership knows little about what transpires behind closed 
doors , is simply unacceptable. Those practices were proved to be problematic and were only 
tolerated by Members due to MC12 ti me constraints and their common engagement to achieve a 
package of meaningful decisions. This may not happen next time. Thus, any further discussions on 
overarching themes, such as the dispute settlement revival and the larger WTO reform should 
directly in volve all Members and reflect their positions, or be doomed to fail. Having said that, let 
me ensure you that the Russian Federation  stands ready to engage constructively with all interested 
parties on any outstanding issues.  
2.170.   The representative of Canada  provided the following statement:  
2.171.   Canada stands by the Ukrainian people and strongly condemns the unjustifiable invasion of 
Ukraine by President Putin.  This illegal and unprovoked war has had, and continues to have, 
devastating effects on Ukraine, its neighbours and people around the world.  No disinformation can 
hide the Russian Federation's  guilt: it alone, and not the sanctions put in place to end the Russian 
Federation's  unjust and brutal war in Ukraine, is respons ible for this crisis.  Canada calls on Russian 
leaders to leave this war path, immediately withdraw their troops from Ukrainian territory and 
assume their responsibility for re -establishing and maintaining international peace and security.  
Canada is unwaver ing in its support for Ukraine and its people. We will continue working with our 
allies and finding ways of using trade to help Ukraine rebuild its economy and society.  Canada joins 
other Members in welcoming the outcomes from MC12.  Though not as ambitious  as we had hoped, 
they do strengthen the multilateral trading system and create important pathways forward.  In this 
regard, Canada remains committed to working with other Members on the outstanding elements of 
the fisheries text to ensure the sustainabilit y of the fish and seafood sector and preserve global fish 
stocks for generations to come, in line with SDG 14.6.  We will also actively participate in the work 
on responding to future pandemic.  Further to direction by Ministers in the Ministerial Decision o n the 
TRIPS Agreement, Canada also remains committed to engaging constructively with all WTO Members 
in discussions on the TRIPS waiver.  While Canada continues to seek a permanent multilateral 
prohibition on the imposition of customs duties on electronic t ransmissions, we welcome the 
successful outcome at MC12, which will offer the certainty and predictability that consumers and 
businesses need. Canada looks forward to continu ing the discussions on the relevant trade -related 
aspects of e -commerce, under the  Work Programme. In addition, we look forward to participating 
in the SPS Committee work programme to consider how to further enhance the implementation of 
that Agreement to respond to emerging challenges and promote science - and rules - based trade.  
Canada  does regret that we were unable to reach an outcome in agriculture during MC12.  We believe 
this setback requires that we reflect on the architecture of these negotiations and to chart a different 
path forward.  Indeed, the challenges encountered during MC1 2 highlight why Canada has been a 
leading voice calling for significant reform of the WTO.  We need a strong and effective WTO that can 
deliver results for Members at all levels of development.  One way is through JSI negotiations, where 
Canada seeks to atta in and quickly implement ambitious outcomes.  Canada is steadfast in its 
commitment to the ideals and objectives of the WTO, and we will continue to play a leadership role 
in nurturing a strong multilateral rules -based trading system for all Members.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  2.172.   The re presentative of China  provided the following statement:  
2.173.   For the WTO, the success of MC12 is like sweet rain after a long drought, a good harvest 
after 20 years of famine. It proved to the world that, as long as we uphold the spirit of solidarity 
and cooper ation, the WTO can still deliver and respond to the global challenges. China would like to 
pay special tribute to DG for her strong leadership. Our thanks also go to Members for their 
tremendous efforts and contribution.  While still indulging in the joy of  success, we fully realize that 
the way forward could still be bumpy and rocky. In order to seize the momentum, China has three 
suggestions: First, cook the hard -won harvest into tasty delicacies by implementing the ministerial 
mandates. This work should b e well organized and structured. China appreciates the Secretariat for 
circulating the list of implementation matters from MC12 mandates  (RD/WTO/13 ). For the next step, 
GC and relevant subsidiary bodies should consult with Members and make implementation s chedule 
with clear time limits. In addition, early ratification of Fisheries Subsidies Agreement will provide 
strong impetus for members to negotiate on the remaining challenging issues, like over -fishing and 
over-capacity  (OFOC). Second, for those longstanding controversial issues, such as domestic 
support, we have to think out of the box and explore new ways forward, rather than repeat the same 
failure again and again with the existing ways. For the retreat on Agriculture, we welcome the 
proposal a nd hope, through frank discussion, we can have a good basis for moving agricultural 
negotiations forward. In order to have fruitful discussion, it should give members enough time to 
reflect and think. So, maybe late fall, the harvest season is a better cho ice. Third, as the negotiation 
on the short reform paragraph in the outcome document was extremely difficult, the implementation 
of reform is destined to be more challenging. In order to move forward, reform should be based on 
some common understandings. F rom China 's point of view, the premise of reform should be 
preserving the basic principles of the WTO, including MFN and consensus -based decision -making; 
the aim should be to ensure the WTO 's well -functioning and relevance, including the restoration of 
Appellate Body; and development issues should always be an integral part of the future reform 
process.   
2.174.   The Director -General  delivered  the following statement:  
2.175.   Let me thank Members for the very useful statements and sometimes suggestions that we 
have heard on  MC12 and its follow up. I myself thought that, given the very long interventions at 
the Informal HODs, this will be a shorter set of interventions. But it was not. That brings me to the 
point raised by Ambassador Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha (Pakistan). He is  confused about the one -
day TNC not being held. I do not think you should be confused. The issue is that sometimes when I 
listen, I hear the same statements at the TNC as you hear at the GC. Since there was no big 
negotiating agenda before us, I thought it  would save Members' time by having just the GC and give 
a report out. But the TNC is not going anywhere. It is there. We have done this only to be more 
efficient and to save time from having yet another meeting. That was why we did that.  
2.176.   I also want to t ouch on one or two issues that were raised. On the issue of implementation 
matters and the table circulated from the Secretariat  (RD/WTO/13 ), I want to reassure everyone 
that this is not a list of mandates or an attempt to get Members to do things they do not want to 
do. It was an attempt to try and put together a guide or some list of things that we might follow -up 
on. Many Members said this might be helpful. We do have a good footnote at the bottom of the table 
which states, "This table is only for purpos es of facilitating Members' discussions on implementation 
matters from MC12 Decisions and Declarations. It does not in any way interpret the mandates and 
is without prejudice to Members' views or positions." We put that caveat. This was just an attempt 
to be helpful. I must confess , sometimes, here, when you are trying to be helpful, you may be doing 
more harm than good,  but we will keep trying. It is neither complete nor meant to be some kind of 
dictate for people to follow. If Members wish, we could add t o it – if they have more suggestions 
about follow -up that is missing. If they do not find it useful then, you do not have to use it as a 
guide. It will help us in the Secretariat to keep track of what we need to be doing to follow -up. The 
other point I wou ld like to make is that I am glad that many Members have stressed that even 
though MC12 is billed as a success or we have achieved some things, we are not there  yet. There is 
still a lot of work to be done. I could not agree more. I hope Members are ready to come back quickly 
to try and resume that work. That is all I wanted to say. We have a lot to deliver before the end of 
the year and I hope we have the appetite for trying to do that.  
2.177.   Now, we face very challenging times with respect to the way we negoti ate. Everybody knows 
it. It has been a miracle that we were able to have the outcomes we had given the tough negotiating 
position we are in. I think everyone knows what I am talking about. It seems that people have WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  forgotten that these are difficult times , and we are trying to do the best we can. It is not an ideal 
situation with regard to how we negotiate but we had to figure out a way to do it. It is interesting 
to me , sometimes when I listen to Members, you would almost believe that three quarters were not 
in some of the negotiating rooms from the comments I have heard. But that is not the case. Most 
people were in these rooms. I really want to insist on that. I just wan t to, again, push back a bit. If 
we allow these comments to keep going on, they become fact. And this is not a fact. Most people 
were in the rooms. There were some who were not in some rooms. And there were reasons why we 
had these rooms the way we did – because we are in a tough situation now with respect to how we 
negotiate in this Organization. We cannot do it the way we used to before. We had to be very 
creative. That creativity has led us to get some results. As soon as this situation alleviates, we wi ll 
go back to the standard mode of doing business. But until then, we have to be creative , and I want 
Members to please be understanding and supportive of our trying to get business done in spite of 
difficult circumstances.  
2.178.   I also want to raise the matter  of the issue of the legal scrubbing of the Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies. In this regard, I would like to give Ambassador Santiago Wills (Colombia), the 
Chair of the Negotiating Group on Rules , the floor.  
2.179.   Ambassador Santiago Wills (Colombia), Chair of the Negotiating Group on Rules , delivered 
the following statement8: 
2.180.   Today, some delegations have alluded to a possible process of legal review, based on the 
process that was followed for the Trade Facilitation Agreement after the Bali Ministerial Conferen ce 
in 2013. Allow me to reiterate what I mentioned on the 7 July H ODs meeting in this regard.  
2.181.   Let us be reminded that the decisions relating to fisheries subsidies at MC12 are 
substantively different from those pertaining to the TFA. In particular, at MC1 2 Ministers took a 
decision to adopt, in three languages, the protocol to amend Annex 1A of the Marrakesh Agreement 
by inserting the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies once it enters into force, and to immediately open 
the Agreement for acceptance by Members . And should I add that the Agreement in three languages 
is attached to the protocol. Thus, as of 17 June 2022, the Agreement is open for acceptance without 
further steps to be taken, aside, of course, from the domestic procedures of the Members to deposit  
instruments of acceptance. This is exactly the same procedure as was followed for the 2005 
amendment of the TRIP S Amendment. At Bali, by contrast, while Ministers decided that the 
substantive TFA negotiations had been concluded, they also decided at the s ame time to establish a 
Preparatory Committee to conduct a legal review of the TFA to prepare it for acceptance. Given the 
difficulties throughout the process, the protocol that actually opened the TFA for acceptance was 
adopted by the General Council abou t one year after the Ministerial Conference.  This is a 
fundamentally different legal posture than what the Ministers agreed to at MC12.  
2.182.   On translations of the Agreement, I would recall that French and Spanish versions of the 
text should have been familiar to Members, given that every version of the draft text that I have 
provided to Members for consideration since June 2020 has been circulated immediately in all three 
languages. This includes both WT/MIN(21)/W/5 and WT/MIN(22)/W/20, which were sent to Minis ters 
in November last year and June this year, before MC12. All of that said, I would encourage any 
delegation that wishes to raise any questions to contact me as soon as possible. Under well -known 
treaty procedures, if there are translation corrections on  which Members can agree, there are 
processes for the Depositary – the DG – to circulate technical rectifications for approval by Members.  
2.183.   I should add, also, that some Members have already informed me that they have begun 
their domestic procedures of acce ptance of the instrument, including, for instance, already having 
submitted the adopted text of the Agreement to their Congress or Parliament. In other words, 
domestic procedures from Members have already started on the basis of what was decided during 
MC12.   
2.184.   Having said all of this, if there are specific concerns of consistency, of translations, or 
anything else, please reach out to me. As I mentioned in the 7 July H ODs – when I shared the details 
 
8 The statement of the NGR Chair can be found in Annex 2 of document JOB/GC/315.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  on the process that I'm reiterating today - my door is sti ll open for all delegations to reach out and 
have the discussions we need to have.  
2.185.   The Director -General  delivered  the following statement:  
2.186.   Thank you very much Ambassador Wills. I want to echo what you said. Thank you all for 
your comments on this today. A s we all say, my door remains open for anyone who has any 
comments.  
2.187.   The General Council took note  of the reports of the Director -General, the CoA SS Chair, the 
General Council Chair , the statement made by the TRIPS Council Chair, and of the other  statements  
made .  
3  IMPLEMENTATION OF THE BALI, NAIROBI AND BUENOS AIRES OUTCOMES – 
STATEMENT BY THE CHAIR   
3.1.  The Chair delivered the following statement9: 
3.2.  Item 3 – 'Implementation of the Bali, Nairobi and Buenos Aires Outcomes' remains on the 
agenda so that the General Council can continue to follow -up, in a horizontal and transparent 
manner, on the implementation of the said Ministerial decisions.  
3.3.   My statement under this item is based on  the information and updates provided by the Chairs 
of Regular Bodies on the work carried out in their respective areas. It goes without saying that some 
of the matters that we discuss under this item intersect with MC12 outcomes. Regarding the Work 
Progra mme on Electronic Commerce and the moratorium on customs duties on electronic 
transmissions, I refer you to my statement under the preceding item.  
3.4.  On the decision on TRIPS non violation complaints, following the extension of the moratorium 
at MC12, there have been no new substantive developments. At the recent TRIPS Council meeting, 
Members largely reiterated known positions regarding the applicability of NVSCs in the TRIPS area 
generally. The Chair of the TRIPS Council will continue to seek engagement fro m Members ahead of 
the next TRIPS Council meeting in October.  
3.5.  With regard to the follow -up to the Bali Decision on TRQ Administration, Members shared at 
the 101st meeting of the Committee on Agriculture on 27 -28 June, initial ideas, which they would 
like to pursue for the first triennial review of the operation of the Bali TRQ Decision.  
3.6.  With respect to the implementation of the Nairobi Decision on Export Competition, the 7th 
annual dedicated discussion took place at the 101st meeting of the Committee on Agr iculture. The 
situation regarding the modification of schedules pursuant to the Nairobi Decision has not evolved 
since my last report.  
3.7.  On the implementation of the Bali Ministerial Decision on Public Stockholding for Food Security 
purposes, the latest noti fication covering the year 2020 -21 by the only developing Member who has 
thus far invoked the Decision was subject for review at the recent meeting of the Committee on 
Agriculture. At the same meeting, a group of Members informed the Committee that they ha d 
launched consultations with this Member under paragraph 6 of the Decision to address their 
transparency -related concerns.  
3.8.  On Preferential Rules of Origin for LDCs, with paragraph 8 of the MC12 Outcome Document, 
Ministers welcomed the decision of the Com mittee on Rules of Origin adopted in April on Preferential 
Rules of Origin and the Implementation of the Nairobi Ministerial Decision (G/RO/95) and instructed 
the Committee to report its work to the General council ahead of MC13.  
3.9.  On the Services Waiver for  LDCs, also with paragraph 8 of the MC12 Outcome Document, 
Ministers instructed the Council for Trade in Services to review and promote its operationalisation, 
providing additional guidance in this regard.  
 
9 The Chair's statement was subsequently circulated in document JOB/GC/317.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  3.10.   Regarding Duty -Free Quota -Free Market Access for L DCs, for several years now, it has not 
been possible for the Secretariat to prepare its report on Members' DFQF schemes for the annual 
review, as mandated by the Bali DFQF Ministerial Decision. This is due to the divergent views among 
some Members on the s cope and coverage of the report. Paragraph 8 of the MC12 Outcome 
Document instructs the CTD to re -commence the annual review process on preferential DFQF market 
access for LDCs.  
3.11.   Concerning the Monitoring Mechanism on Special and Differential Treatment, as  the situation 
remains unchanged, I refer you to earlier statements made under this item.  
3.12.   On Trade and Transfer of Technology, at the May meeting of the Working Group, Brazil 
presented its communication titled "Intellectual property, transfer of technology  and capacity 
building for COVID -19 and beyond" (WT/GC/W/845), initially presented at the May GC meeting. 
Members supported the communication's broad objective and invited Brazil to provide additional 
specific proposals that could reinvigorate the Working Group's work. With regard to possible 
recommendations on steps that might be taken to increase flows of technology to developing 
countries, India said that it was testing ideas on how to reinvigorate the Working Group's work and 
that it would update the Wo rking Group at its next meeting. The Chairperson suggested organizing 
a workshop to exchange national experiences and identify best technology transfer practices.  
3.13.   On Trade Facilitation, the ratification rate remains at 94.5% with 8 Members still to ratify.  
The rate of implementation commitments currently stands at 75% for the entire membership and 
just over 67% for developing countries and LDCs. The rate of implementation commitments for LDCs 
stands at just over 43%. Concerning LDCs, I understand that an im portant notification date is coming 
up for LDCs on 22 August – i.e., notification of category C definitive implementation dates. Regarding 
LLDCs, the Committee will hold a Dedicated Session on Transit Issues during the next spring 
meeting, in accordance wi th paragraph 9 of the MC12 Outcome Document and the first four -year 
review of the TFA (G/TFA/2).  
3.14.   And finally, on Aid for Trade, the WTO will host the 8th Global Review of Aid for Trade from 
27 to 29 July. There will be a total of 53 sessions – with half of  the sessions in person and all sessions 
available online. The theme for this edition of the Global Review is: "Empowering connected, 
sustainable trade". This title includes three main pillars, namely: (i) the role that Aid for Trade can 
play in the contex t of women's economic empowerment and how it can favour their better inclusion 
in trade; (ii) how it can boost digital connectivity and contribute to the development of e commerce 
in developing countries; and (iii) what Aid for Trade should do to support a  just transition to 
environmental development.  
3.15.   The Global Review will see the launch of the Aid for Trade reports by the WTO and the OECD, 
with expert contributions from other organizations. These reports discuss the results and analysis of 
the monitoring  and evaluation exercise and direction of financial flows. I encourage all Members to 
participate actively in the Global Review, so as to make the event as meaningful as possible.  
3.16.   The representative of  the United States  delivered the following statement:  
3.17.   We appreciate the update from the Chair, but we are unsure why this item remains on the 
General Council agenda.  We are not aware of any outcomes from these Ministerial Conferences that 
are still considered "outstanding ". In the spirit of improving our work in the General Council, we 
suggest that Members allow this current agenda item to drop from the next GC meeting agenda.  If 
a Member perceives that a specific outcome remains outstanding, they could request an agenda 
item to address that specific issue.  
3.18.   The representative of Cameroon , on behalf of the African Group , delivered the following 
statement:  
3.19.   Recalling the Bali outcomes, the African Group together with the LDC Group and G33 
submitted a Ministerial Decision on PSH for Developing Country Members con tained in 
WT/MIN(22)/W/4. We express regret that the MC12 could not deliver on a permanent solution on 
public stockholding that caters to the needs of all developing and least developed countries. African 
countries are particularly vulnerable to the increa sing challenges to agricultural food security. Tools 
such as the establishment of a permanent solution on PSH are effective for supporting domestic WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  producers in agricultural production. The time has come to effectively deliver on this important 
subject and  the Group stands ready to work with all Members in this regard. We thank Members 
that expressed their readiness to work with us and others in this line and call on others to join and 
improve international trade rules for food security.  
3.20.   The representative  of India delivered the following statement:  
3.21.   We would like this agenda to remain on the table for the discussions in the General Council 
because at least it reminds us of the things that are pending from the previous Ministerial mandates 
or decisions. Oth erwise, whatever we are talking about MC12 and at MC13, if we are silent on some 
of those decisions of MC12, and these are ongoing works, we may end up starting with a clean slate, 
again wiping off all the decisions of MC12 from our memory. As we have stat ed before  and we 
reiterate that Public Stock Holding had a clear Ministerial mandate and PSH negotiations for a 
permanent solution must be on an accelerated separate track. Any effort to link these discussions 
with other pillars, which we saw prior to MC12 , undermines the Ministerial mandate. Unfortunately, 
this was tried, and we failed to find a permanent solution to the PSH at the MC12. No outcome on 
this subject at MC12 was a failure of a colossal order, at least for India. It is indeed backsliding. The 
delay since the decision was taken at Bali, and further decisions in General Council in 2014 and in 
Nairobi Ministerial in 2015 is a long delay even by WTO standards. Sometimes, a few Members say 
that PSH is one of the solutions to ensure food security and  it's not the only solution. Let me again 
clarify we had never said that it is the only solution. Just like what we have witnessed in last two 
years, free trade being a solution, not the only solution for food security of so many countries and 
vulnerable p eople.  Some Members have sought for consultation under para graph  6 of the Bali 
decision with India the design and implementation of PSH, in itself is evidence for other countries to 
look at. Because as we say that proof of the pudding is in the eating, thi s program in India actually 
has helped us to provide food security for 1.4 billion people in our country, even during a crisis 
period of the last two years. It has also helped us to help countries in need who have approached 
India for bilateral support for  food security in their country where they felt that the free trade has 
not helped them in ensuring food security for their people. While I speak still more than 800 million 
people in India get additional quantity of guaranteed basic food needs delivered a t their doorstep 
without any cost for them. Thanks to the PSH program that we are running. Therefore, I would 
request rather than doing a theoretical debate, we may acknowledge a successful model which is 
the PSH model of India and help countries in implem enting their own respective successful models 
without creating unnecessary barriers and pushing them into lengthy debates, including the debates 
here in the General Council.  The failure of agriculture in MC12 also has lessons for all of us. I don't 
have to  articulate it. And I'm sure they are very apparent, and everyone understands this. Still, let 
me touch upon four or five of them. There will be no meaningful progress on the agriculture 
negotiations, unless the mandated issues are delivered. Times  have ch anged since 1994; 
international trade had changed. Members ' understanding of WTO has improved and developing 
country members now understand their rights better. Developing country Members may not have 
the wherewithal to pursue their interests but are wise enough to at least protect their interests. I 
also hear in the room that we cannot solve the problems with the same set of failed solutions. But 
surprisingly the same Members, are advocating the same solutions that they have been propagating 
for 25 years. This gives one a feeling of false sense of entitlement that they know better and they 
preach better. I can only say selective quoting of mandates in WTO has not helped in the past and 
will not help in future. Mandates given by our Ministers in Bali and Nai robi and under delegated 
power by this General Council in December 2014 cannot be forgotten. That may not help in taking 
forward the credibility of the WTO.  Silence on mandates of MC12 during MC13 will not result in a 
clean slate post -MC13 with respect to MC12 decisions. With this reminder, I will close my statement.  
3.22.   The representative of the Nepal  delivered the following statement:  
3.23.   My delegation welcomes the report and commends you for your continued efforts in making 
past decisions implemented. The WTO passed through twelve Ministerial Conferences over the last 
27 years and most of the Ministerial have successfully taken good decisi ons in favour of the LDCs. 
My delegation commends all Members who have taken timely initiatives to implement those decisions 
in an effective manner, such as EBA facility of the European Union and the United Kingdom, and 
some initiatives in rules of origin and operationalization of service waiver by some Members. 
Similarly, my delegation welcomes the paragraph 8 of the MC12 outcome document , which rightly 
reflects the matter demanding improvement in implementation of the past decisions in favour of the 
LDCs.  Nepal wishes to urge Members for respecting the decisions in favour of the LDCs and the 
paragraph 8 of the outcome document. Effective operationalization of service waiver, simplifying WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  rules of origin, mobilizing additional resources in implementation of category C measures of the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement and others would be helpful for LDCs in integrating into the global 
trading system and benefiting from it. The LDCs have limited capacity to effectively do follow up of 
these decisions as they are eve n not able to do follow up of implementation of their own legal 
provisions and decisions made in home countries.  Therefore, regular follow -up in respective bodies 
and in this General Council is crucial. My delegation wishes to maintain this agenda as stand ing 
agenda of the General Council.  
3.24.   The representative of the Indonesia  delivered the following statement:  
3.25.   On this item, Indonesia is of the view that we need to continue in advancing the existing 
Ministerial mandates and implementing the outcomes from Ba li and Nairobi Decisions. In this regard, 
Indonesia remains committed to implement the Ministerial mandates and would like to reiterate its 
priority in delivering the mandated issues in agriculture towards achieving the establishment of a 
permanent solutio n on PSH as well as a comprehensive and balanced outcome in SSM. Indonesia 
believes that as Members of a rule -based Organization, our works are based on mandates that we 
have to adhere. Any attempts to un -mandate any Ministerial mandates will not be accept able. 
Agriculture reform is urgently needed to create a fair and balance discipline that addresses the 
current challenges and its impact in food security and livelihood security. Under such condition, 
negotiations on other priority pillars, namely domestic  support, market access, and cotton, would 
also be able to progress. Moreover, Indonesia welcome DG 's initiative to convene a retreat in the 
upcoming months to discuss agriculture negotiations. Nevertheless, while such initiative may take 
stock of new and fresh ideas, we should not start from scratch and neglect existing mandates.  
3.26.   The representative of Nigeria  delivered the following statement:  
3.27.   Nigeria wishes to associate itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the African Group.  
Nigeria is concerned that despite the severity of the food security difficulties experienced in 
Developing countries, and the joint submission on PSH by the African Group, the ACP and G33; 
MC12 probably due to time constraint, could not deliver on a longst anding mandated issue of PSH, 
a critical food security support instrument. We believe achieving food security in developing countries 
requires increasing support to enhance productive capacity, and economic opportunities for, small -
scale farmers. PSH progr ammes are crucial for sustaining production and consumption support that 
are necessary to meet critical food security objectives for poor and marginalized sections of 
Developing Countries population. We therefore need to intensify our work towards a balanc ed 
outcome on PSH at MC13. In conclusion Chair, we continue to call on Members to exercise requisite 
flexibility towards the delivery of requisite decision on the mandated issue of PSH.  
3.28.   The representative of South Africa  delivered the following statement:  
3.29.   We believe that it is important to maintain this item which enables the WTO membership to 
reflect on whether we are delivering on Ministerial mandates. The inability of the WTO to implement 
agreed decisions and mandates remains a matter of concern. It cont ributes to the inequity we see 
in benefits from the MTS. This has been exacerbated by the COVID -19 pandemic, the current food 
crisis that is contributing to rising food insecurity which emphasizes the need deliver on the mandate 
in Article 20 of the Agreem ent on Agriculture, including the need to conclude the outstanding work 
on disciplines on the trade distorting domestic support, a permanent solution on PSH, disciplines on 
cotton and SSM. We therefore welcome the initiative by the DG to convene a Retreat on Agriculture 
and we hope its outcomes will create the necessary momentum to take the work forward. Most 
importantly, we need to deliver on the outstanding DDA issues which remains critical if the WTO is 
to deliver on the development mandate. We therefore  urge the Members to prioritize the fulfilment 
of outstanding Ministerial mandates.  
3.30.   The representative of Sri Lanka  delivered the following statement:  
3.31.   My delegation would like to align itself with the statement made by Indonesia as chair of G33 
on mandates in relation to the agriculture.  Sri Lanka attaches high importance to negotiations on 
PSH and SSM, which are mandated issues by the Ministers under Agri culture negotiations. The 
Ministerial mandates on these two issues do not require any rewriting by the membership on the 
premise that they have been remaining on the table for many years justifying their relevancy. Nairobi 
Ministerial Declaration reads as follows "[w]ork on all the Ministerial Decisions adopted in Part II of WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  this Declaration will remain an important element of our future agenda ". Part II specifically 
recognizes PSH and SSM. Therefore, my delegation would like to reiterate that past Minister ial 
decisions cannot be forgotten or neglected. Sri Lanka, therefore, reiterate s that the delivery on all 
ministerial decisions, including Doha and Bali, Nairobi and Buenos Aires outcomes need to be 
addressed. As mandated by the Bali Ministerial Decision, we should continue our discussion on PSH 
at CoA  SS so that a permanent solution could be reached before MC13. My delegation would like to 
emphasize that the harmonized proposal for PSH by G33 and African Group and ACP Group should 
be the basis for our work  ahead.  As mandated by our Ministers previously, we should  continue 
negotiations on a special safeguard mechanism (SSM) for developing country Members in dedicated 
sessions of the CoA -SS. Members should engage constructively so that SSM would  be delivered by 
MC13.  We already have several proposals for SSM on the table including G33 and African Group 
proposals. Negotiations should be based on these proposals.  Finally, Sri Lanka urges that this item 
shall be retained as a standing agenda item in the agenda of  the General Council.  
3.32.   The representative of Pakistan  delivered the following statement:  
3.33.   While another Ministerial Conference has just ended, we wish to note that the implementation 
of mandates from these Ministerial are still lacking. As we have raised se veral times in our previous 
statements under this item, developmental issues to ensure the livelihoods and developmental 
prospects of people in developing countries are left unaddressed.  Furthermore, we have been 
constantly raising our concerns to address the imbalances in Agriculture and to deliver on the G90 
proposals on SDT. We reiterate our call to build a mechanism where the unfulfilled mandates and 
unimplemented decisions are regularly highlighted in this Council and at the Ministerial Conferences 
as a reminder for us to act in the right direction.  At this juncture, immediately after MC12, this is 
the most opportune time  to put such a mechanism into place since we have received more mandates 
from MC12, and we need to fulfil them along with all the pend ing matters. To ensure that the world 
sees the WTO as an organisation that delivers on the mandated outcomes, we must find means to 
take stock of such mandates and decisions.   
3.34.   The representative of Uruguay  delivered the following statement:  
3.35.   Today we have h eard a number of arguments which  we have already discussed on other 
occasions.  We could make a long statement and refer to legal issues about mandates, treaties, the 
different hierarchy of norms and so on, but we will not do so today.  Let us embrace  what the 
Director -General and other delegations have said: it is good for us to take the time to reflect on 
things and seek new ways of addressing the issues involved in the agriculture negotiations. Some 
have talked about retreats or seminars on the subj ect. Perhaps it is good for us to take the time to 
reflect and see if we can find a way of approaching these issues with an open and creative mind, or 
"thinking out side the box".  
3.36.   The representative of Bangladesh  delivered the following statement:  
3.37.   Banglades h supports that this item be kept as standing item on the agenda of General Council  
meetings. For the developing countries , including the LDCs, it is imperative that the past Ministerial 
decisions and mandates provided by our Ministers should be followed a nd pursued in full. The 
Ministerial decisions taken in favour of the developing countries and LDCs are immensely important 
as many decisions taken in the past Ministerial Conferences are yet to be implemented fully. A 
regular follow -up and regular reportin g for those works at the General Council  will be helpful. 
Bangladesh stands ready to work with other Members in this regard.  
3.38.   The General Council took note of the  General Council Chair's report and of the statements.  
4  WORK PROGRAMME ON SMALL ECONOMIES – REPORT BY THE CHAIR OF THE 
DEDICATED SESSION OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRADE AND ENVIRONMENT  
4.1.  The Chair recalled that, in line with the agreement in the General Council in 2002, the Work 
Programme on Small Economies was a standing item on the agenda and the Committee on Trade 
and Development reported regularly on the progress of work in its Dedicated Sessions. At MC12, 
Ministers had reaffirmed their commitment to the Work Programme and had instructed the CTD to 
continue its work in Dedicated Sessions under the overall responsibility of the General Council. In 
this respect, the Chair of the CTD provided regular progress reports of the ongoing work in each WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  regular meeting of the General Council. He then invited Ambassador Dwarka -Canabady (Mauritius), 
Chair of the CTD, to take the floor to provide an update on the ongoing work in the Committee.  
4.2.  Ambassador Usha Chandnee Dwarka -Canabady (Mauritius), Chair of the Committee on Trade 
and Development , delivered the following statement:  
4.3.  Let me start by welcoming the Decision taken by Ministers at MC12 on the Work Programme 
on Small Economies, which is found in documents WT/MIN(22)/25 and WT/L/1136.  
4.4.  The Ministerial Decision contains, inter alia , a reaffirmation of Members' commitment at 
Ministerial level to the Work Programme on Small Economies. Note is taken of all the work conducted 
to date, and the CTD is instructed to continue its work in the Dedicated Session on Small Economies 
under the overall responsibility of the General Council. The  Dedicated Session is to continue 
monitoring the progress of the small economy proposals in WTO bodies and in negotiating groups 
with the aim of providing responses, as soon as possible, to the trade -related issues identified for 
the fuller integration of SVEs into the multilateral trading system.  
4.5.  In terms of future work in the Dedicated Session, the Decision instructs the WTO Secretariat 
to provide relevant information and factual analysis for discussion among Members on the topic of 
"integrating small eco nomies into the post COVID -19 economy: effects of the pandemic, challenges 
and opportunities."  
4.6.  Mr. Chairman,  it will be recalled that the text of this Ministerial Decision was, in fact, already 
agreed in the CTD's Dedicated Session on Small Economies last October. This allowed the General 
Council to forward the text last November to the Ministerial Conference for adoption.  
4.7.  Because this matter was settled some months ago, it was possible for discussions to advance 
this year in the CTD's Dedicated Session on  Small Economies, even before the Decision was formally 
adopted by Ministers at MC12.  
4.8.  In particular, at a meeting of the Dedicated Session held on 20 May, the Committee agreed to 
a proposed outline, submitted by the SVE Group, of a background document by the Secretariat on 
the topic of "integrating small economies into the post COVID -19 economy: effects of the pandemic, 
challenges and opportunities."  The Secretariat document, which will be substantive and statistical in 
nature, will form the basis for the discussions that will take place in the Dedicated Session on this 
mandated topic.  
4.9.  As I informed the Committee, I shall remain in touch with the Secretariat after the summer 
break to monitor the progress being made in the preparation of the background document. I shall 
keep Members informed of this matter. Once the document has been finalized and circulated, a 
meeting of the Dedicated Session will be convened, so that Members can begin their discussion on 
the important topic of integrating sm all economies into the post COVID -19 economy.  
4.10.   Let me close by encouraging all Members to participate actively in the discussions that will 
take place in the Dedicated Session. More broadly, I take this opportunity to once again call on all 
Members to conti nue to engage in order to frame responses to the trade -related issues identified for 
the fuller integration of SVEs into the multilateral trading system. This concludes my intervention.  
4.11.   The Director -General  delivered the following statement:  
4.12.   I very strong ly welcome and support the decision that Ministers took on the Work Programme 
for Small Economies, this is a very important subgroup of our membership, which face particular 
concerns and vulnerabilities. I am therefore delighted that our Ministers while re affirming the WTO 
membership's commitment to the Work Programme on Small Economies also called on Members to 
help small economies in the post COVID -19 economic recovery. I am pleased to note from 
Ambassador Canabady's report that Members have agreed to the  outline of a background document 
by the Secretariat on this topic. The work that will be done on this matter in the CTD Dedicated 
Session on Small Economies will, I am sure, be very valuable. It is extremely important that work 
continues in the WTO to add ress the issues of interest and concern to small economies. I would also 
like to encourage small economies to continue making  submissions in the negotiating groups and 
other WTO bodies, so that Members are made aware of their specific needs. Let us keep in  mind the WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  objective that Members set themselves when the Work Programme was established, which is to 
frame responses to the trade -related issues identified for fuller integration of small, vulnerable 
economies into the multilateral trading system. I am cer tain that this work by the Secretariat will 
help in that direction.  
4.13.   The representative of Guatemala , on behalf of the SVE Group , delivered the following 
statement:  
4.14.   The SVE Group would like to thank the CTD Chair for her report on the Work Programme on 
Small Economies. As mentioned, the Ministerial Decision of the Work Programme on Small 
Economies for us is a major outcome of MC12 . Ministers have reaffirmed their comm itment to the 
Work Programme on Small Economies and mandated the work on the topic: "Integrating small 
economies into the post COVID -19 economy: effects of the pandemic, challenges and opportunities."  
The group would like to thank all Members for their sup port and hope that the work leads to concrete 
proposals that ensure a fuller integration of the SVEs in the multilateral trading system. We note 
that following this mandate, the Secretariat is already working on a background note that will provide 
factual information to guide the discussions on the agreed topic at the CTD Dedicated Session. The 
group hopes to receive the background document soon and look forward on starting work on this 
important topic.   
4.15.   The representative of Barbados  delivered the followin g statement:  
4.16.   The agreement by Ministers at MC12 on a decision on the Work Programme is an important 
feature of the WTO's work and also a commitment by Members to integrating small economies in 
the multilateral trading system and for this we thank al l Membe rs. our inherent structural challenges, 
small vulnerable economies are disproportionately impacted by environmental and economic shocks. 
The economic crisis that emerges is a result of the pandemic is a prime example of this. We therefore 
welcome the agree ment to discuss the topic, the COVID -19 pandemic and the post -COVID economy, 
effects of the pandemic challenges and opportunities. We look forward to the discussions on this 
topic as our immediate next step on this decision. We strongly believe that the co ntinued impact of 
the pandemic compounded by those associated by the climate crisis and emerging food, energy and 
financial crisis means that we will need to consider the vulnerabilities as well as the trade and 
economic circumstances small economies in gr eater debt. The small economies work programme is 
to make a meaningful impact for the countries, we must also seek to move towards the next edge 
of the decision which instructs the dedicated session on small economies to consider further detail 
the various  submissions that have been received to date, examine any additional proposals that 
Members might wish to submit, where possible and within its mandate make recommendation to 
the General Council on any of these proposals. In so doing, the General Council h as a mandate to 
direct the relevant subsidiary bodies to frame responses to trade related issues identified by the CTD 
with a view to making recommendations for action. Barbados looks forward to working with Members 
within the General Council and the Commi ttee on Trade and Development as relates to the Work 
Programme on Small Economies and express our willingness to work with the Chair of the CTD and 
how we with the assistance of the Secretariat can effectively implement the MC12 decision. In 
closing, Barba dos wishes to signal its association with the statements of the CARICOM and SVE 
Groups on this agenda item.  
4.17.   The representative of Kenya , on behalf of the ACP Group , delivered the following statement:  
4.18.   The ACP Group is pleased with the decision taken at MC12 on the small economies work 
programme. The work done, and which will continue, on reducing trade costs, opportunities and 
challenges for small economies in attracting investments; and economic and trade impact of nat ural 
disasters on small economies have been helpful to small economies.  We look forward to continuing 
our discussions in the CTD 's dedicated sessions on small economies with a view to implementing the 
work programme. The COVID -19 pandemic has had a signifi cant impact on the economic activities 
and trade performance of small economies. Hence, we look forward to discussions on how to 
integrate small economies into the post COVID -19 economy in the context of the effects of the 
pandemic, challenges and opportun ities.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  4.19.   The representative of Trinidad and Tobago , on behalf of CARICOM , delivered the following 
statement : 
4.20.   We align ourselves with the statement by Guatemala , on behalf of the SVE Group. We 
welcome the Ministerial Decision on the Work Programme on Small E conomies as a critical element 
of the outcomes from MC12 and wish to thank Members for their support.  For SVEs such as those in 
CARICOM, the COVID -19 pandemic was an unwelcom e reminder of how susceptible our economies 
are to exogenous shocks. We, therefore , remain committed to the Work Programme on Small 
Economies and the mandated work on the topic: "Integrating small economies into the post -COVID 
19 economy: effects of the pandemic, challenges, and opportunities ". We note that as part of the 
mandate, the S ecretariat will be working on a factual background note to guide the discussions, and 
we look forward to receiving this document in due course. Our work over the years under the Work 
Programme on Small Economies has emphasized the importance of meaningful actions to assist 
SVEs in overcoming their vulnerabilities to integrate into the multilateral trade system fully. For 
CARICOM, our limited produc tive bases and other structural challenges have proven that simple and 
antiquated income per capita metrics do not fully portray the peculiar challenges that our countries 
face and the far -reaching consequences that these challenges have on our ability to develop.  
Therefore, we continue to highlight the importance of specific flexibilities, technical assistance, and 
capacity building that support SVEs in CARICOM in their economic development. The CARICOM 
Group looks forward to engaging with all Members on t his and other areas of work on the Small 
Economies Work Programme.  
4.21.   The representative of the Maldives  delivered the following statement:  
4.22.   The Maldives wishes to align with the statement delivered on behalf of the SVE group. SVEs 
such as the Maldives are ve ry reliant on trade and a major component of this is attracting investment 
to support major industries such as Tourism. Resorts require capital and materials which must be 
sourced from abroad. As a low-lying small island state we are aware of the impact of  natural disasters 
on our economy, such as the 2004 tsunami, which caused damages worth 62% of our GDP and set 
the country back years in social and economic progress. Ensuring that SVEs are able to address their 
needs though trade is crucial for their succ essful development and inclusion in the multilateral 
trading system. Once again, the Maldives thanks the CTD chair for her report as it will provide 
valuable information to drive the Work Programme forward. We remain committed to engaging 
constructively on  this issue and look forward to future progress made.  
4.23.   The representative of Brazil  delivered the following statement:  
4.24.   We also welcome the adoption of the "Ministerial Decision on the Work Programme on Small 
Economies " by MC12.  We believe that this initiati ve will support small and vulnerable economies in 
facing specific challenges and further benefiting from the multilateral trading system. The work 
program me will also be a valuable contribution to tackle the effects of the COVID -19 pandemic in 
those countr ies, many of which have been severely hit by the crises.  We look forward for the 
publication of the background document on "Integrating small economies into the post COVID -19 
economy ", to be elaborated by the Secretariat, in order to support further substa ntive discussions 
on the issue.  
4.25.   The representative of Vanuatu , on behalf of the Pacific Group , delivered the following 
statement:  
4.26.   Our Group also aligns with the SVE statement and the ACP Statement. We also welcome the 
extension of the Small Economies Work Programme at MC12,  and the work envisaged under it. Small 
Vulnerable Economies face significant trade challenges. We are very small open economies, 
dependent on very few exports, are highly susceptibl e to external economic shocks, and are 
uncompetitive due to the high trade costs that we face, owing to our remoteness, smallness and 
geographical fragmentation. These structural characteristics are exacerbated by climate change and 
frequent natural disast ers. COVID -19 has further compounded these vulnerabilities as our major 
economic sectors such as the tourism were adversely affected,  and exports and remittances decline.  
This work must not be allowed to go on forever by extending the Work Programme at eve ry 
Ministerial Conference  without tangible results. We must focus on the mandate of framing responses 
for the fuller integration of small, vulnerable economies, into the multilateral trading system, as 
required by paragraph 35 of the Doha Agenda. We theref ore encourage Members to engage WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  constructively to facilitate meaningful responses for integrating SVEs into the multilateral trading 
system.  
4.27.   The representative of Ecuador  delivered the following statement:  
4.28.   Ecuador as a small vulnerable economy aligns itse lf with the statement made on behalf of the 
SVE Group. We are in favour of the adoption of a Work Programme as per the Ministerial Declaration 
and we commit to engage  constructively with the Chair of the CTD in this regard . 
4.29.   The General Council took note of the  report of the Chairperson of the CTD, the statement by 
the Director -General and of the statements  made .  
5  COMMITTEE ON BUDGET, FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION – REPORT ON MEETINGS OF 
5 MAY 2022 (WT/BFA/203) AND 24 MAY 2022 (WT/BF A/204)  
5.1.  Ambassador Bettina Waldmann (Germany), Chair of the Committee on Budget, Finance and 
Administration , delivered the following report:  
5.2.  My remarks will focus on the meetings of the CBFA that were held on 5 May and 24 May 2022. 
Summary reports of those meetings are contained in documents bearing the reference WT/BFA/203 
and WT/BFA/204. I will also provide some highlights of the carry -over of discussions that have taken 
place since May.  
5.3.  Let me begin with the important question of Long -Term Liabiliti es. The principal sources of 
long-term liabilities are: (1) the WTO Pension Plan; and (2) the After Service Health Insurance 
(ASHI).  
5.4.  The Management Board of the WTO Pension Plan has started work on proposals to address the 
long-term actuarial deficit that  was recently announced. This deficit can be expected to have an 
impact on the financial health of the Organization going forward. The Board will recommend 
corrective action in due course and options will be discussed at the CBFA. Stakeholders will be kept  
informed. I should add that pensions are currently being paid. In that sense, there is no immediate 
emergency. However, we will need to plan ahead. For example, increased life expectancy means 
that benefits will be paid for longer periods to retirees. The  problem is real, and action will be required 
to find a solution for the longer -term.  
5.5.  Let me now turn to the question of ASHI liabilities. This is an estimate of the future costs of 
paying for ASHI benefits for current staff and retirees. Due to an aging p opulation and medical 
inflation, the liability continues to grow steadily. The question of ASHI liabilities will also remain on 
the agenda of the CBFA going forward.  
5.6.  On the WTO Transformation Process,  the Secretariat transformation process will continue t o 
be on the agenda of the CBFA as it moves forward, ultimately with a focus on the strategic direction 
of the Secretariat. This process will be of fundamental importance in shaping the Organization for 
the future.  
5.7.  The first two stages of design work dealt with staff talent management and ways of working 
within the Secretariat. This included design work on procurement, career pathways, recruitment, 
staff mobility, promotions, other rewards, and risk management. Since the end of May, the focus 
has been on dig ital tools and technology. DDG Ellard provided helpful written and oral updates to 
delegations at the meeting of the CBFA held on 15 July. She has offered a briefing for Members with 
the Transformation Office after the summer break, and specific Member con sultation sessions on 
digital tools and technology have been held as well.  
5.8.  On the Coherence in the Management and Administration of WTO Trust Funds, the CBFA has 
also carried out work in relation to WTO trust funds. I am delighted to report that the CBFA has 
endorsed recommendations to improve the management, governance, and administration of 
voluntary contributions. I referred to this matter briefly in my report to the General Council on 9th 
May. My thanks and appreciation go to the Chair of the Working G roup on Trust Funds, Ms. Alicia 
Goujon of Mexico, who led the process to a successful outcome. I would also like to acknowledge 
the valuable support provided by the Secretariat to this work, and to thank Members for their positive WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  and constructive engageme nt. The recommendations endorsed by the CBFA can be found in 
paragraphs 3.10 to 3.13 of document WT/BFA/203.  
5.9.  As a next step, the Secretariat will start developing necessary policies and guidelines to ensure 
that the governance and management of WTO Trust Funds and Voluntary Contributions are brought 
in consistency with the principles recommended by the Working Group in a time bound manner.  
5.10.   With regard to other important work for later this year, the question of the mid -term review 
of the budget will likely  be on the agenda of the CBFA in October. In that connection, it may be 
relevant for Members to reflect on budgetary implications of implementation requirements flowing 
from the successes of MC12, also taking into account the economic context that we are o perating 
in. 
5.11.   The Director -General  delivered the following statement:  
5.12.   I took the floor to thank the CBFA Chair for her report and her update, which is very useful. I 
also wanted to recall my update on the ongoing transformation process and thank DDG Ellard  for 
updating all Members on the process at the last CBFA meeting. I would also in particular like to 
thank the 43 delegations who participated in the Member consultations on the use of Secretariat 
digital tools, which were hold on the 11 and 21 July. Memb ers' inputs during these consultations as 
well as throughout the process will go a long way in ensuring that the Secretariat can better function 
and service of WTO Members. I had an update on where we are on the transformation. Just to 
illustrate the imple mentation, we are focusing now towards implementing some of the things that 
were being done during the transformation that have been designed, I am grateful to the 
Transformation Office led by Victoria Donaldson and to the many staff who participated in th is 
process.  
5.13.   One of the things we are trying to implement, just to illustrate, is redesigning some of the 
things that are there already, making them better and stronger. For instance, with respect to rewards 
outside promotion, these rewards outside promoti on already exist, but we to make some changes 
so that we can strengthen this and make it more fitting for recognizing our staff work, outstanding 
teamwork, innovation and excellence in management. We are also trying to implement a redesigned 
system for awa rding the annual performance bonuses which already exist, to be fairer and more 
transparent and to ensure clearance between these rewards and real performance of people. Also, 
distinguishing the amount of bonus awarded between a small group of top performe rs and others 
very strong performers we want to implement a stronger culture of ongoing recognition and praise.  
5.14.   So just to illustrate to you some of the things that we are beginning to work on to implement, 
and this implementation will be led by the Trans formation Office and by staff members themselves. 
I hope many Members who would like to know more will avail themselves of this opportunity to listen 
in detail to what is being done under transformation. I just also want to say one word on another 
change t hat we are working on, which is the gender policy. As I mentioned to you before, when I 
took this job, I found that we did not have an internal gender policy. I really was surprised to find 
that unlike many international organizations we did not have such a policy. There was a policy that 
has been worked on over the past seven years but was never actually put in place, so we looked at 
this policy and decided we needed really to perform a gender audit, so that we could see where the 
gaps are within the Secre tariat and use this to help us build a gender policy for the WTO, something 
I consider really important, and I am really committed to. As you know, I tried to set the tone by 
the top management team saying for the first time that 50% should be women. There fore, I am 
very committed to making sure that we deal with issue, and we really put a gender policy in place. 
We hired the Edge Consulting Group to perform this gender audit and two weeks ago they presented 
some of the key findings which I find very intere sting. Just to share with you one or two, as we do 
not have too much time, women were found to be overrepresented at lower grades, grades 2 to 5 
and grades 6 to 7 and underrepresented at higher levels. This is very much like many organizations 
- whether th ey are multilateral or even private sector. This is a finding that is quite common, and 
we are not different.  
5.15.   Another key finding, they are looking at the gender pay gap, from the information they have 
seen so far, we do not seem to be doing too badly, bu t they are digging deeper into the gender pay 
gap issue, so that if there is a problem, we can try to rectify it. A third but more trouble finding was 
on sexual harassment and discrimination. Women do not feel safe to report misconduct for fear of WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  retaliat ion, sometimes it is because of lack of knowledge of our processes, sometimes is that they 
feel that there is no leadership reaction or inappropriate action when they report, so that is obviously 
something we have to fix within the Organization.  
5.16.   And just to share one more key finding, they find that, in spite of all of this, one of the most 
interesting things is that staff, both women and men, overwhelmingly would recommend the 
Organization to their friends and colleagues. One of the things they did find r elates to promotion, 
recruitment and performance management. They are very similar to what the McKinsey report found, 
so it is very interesting to me that another Organization, looking at this from another perspective, 
has the same findings. So, those are the areas we need to work on, and that is why I wanted to 
share with you just some of the things we will be doing to strengthen rewards outside of salaries 
and pay and strengthening what already exists. We are going to set up focus groups after the 
summer,  trying to build on all of that and to come up with a gender policy for the Secretariat, and I 
will be very happy when this is done.  
5.17.   The General Council took note  of the CBFA Chair's statement and of the Director -General's 
statement and adopted  the two rep orts contained in WT/BFA/203 and WT/BFA/204.  
6  PARAGRAPH 8 OF THE MINISTERIAL DECISION ON THE TRIPS AGREEMENT ADOPTED 
ON 17 JUNE 2022 – DOCUMENT WT/MIN(22)/30 (MINISTERIAL DECISION ON THE TRIPS 
AGREEMENT OF 17 JUNE 2022) – REQUEST FROM SOUTH AFRICA, INDIA, I NDONESIA, 
EGYPT, PAKISTAN AND ARGENTINA ON BEHALF OF THE CO -SPONSORS OF 
IP/C/W/669/REV.1  
6.1.  The representative of South Africa  delivered the following statement:  
6.2.  Our delegation is concerned about the lack of urgency with which the paragraph 8 Ministerial 
mandate is being treated. On 6 July, we circulated a Room Document aimed at assisting Members 
to comply with the mandate. Our delegation did not receive adequate in stitutional support in this 
regard. We note the informal remarks made by the Ambassador of Sierra Leone under his own 
responsibility under  agenda item 2. Given that the paragraph 8 mandate is a continuation of the 
waiver negotiations under Article IX of th e Marrakesh Agreement, it is critical that the Chairperson 
of the TRIPS Council continues the practice of presenting a formal, factual report to the GC. We 
made this request which regrettably was declined. The Ministerial  mandate in paragraph 8 of the 
WTO Decision on the TRIPS Agreement is time -bound , and necessitates that we work with speed , 
and there is urgency in continuing the discussions on this important item that affects people 's lives. 
In paragraphs 14 and 15 of our R oom Document , the 65 cosponsors of the TRIPS Waiver proposal 
requested that the TRIPS Council convene in late July and that the TRIPS Council report to the GC. 
As indicated previously, the latter request would have been a mere continuation of the existing 
practice. Neither of these reque sts have been accommodated and it is unclear to us what the obstacle 
is in continuing with the existing practise of a factual report to the GC. This is despite many 
delegations taking the floor at the 6 July TRIPS Council meeting to indicate that the indic ative 
schedule proposed in RD/IP/49 is reasonable. Fulfilment of the paragraph 8 mandate is a matter of 
utmost priority if the WTO is to have a credible response to the pandemic.  
6.3.  Chair, the WHO has been abundantly clear about the need to deal with the COV ID-19 pandemic 
comprehensively. WHO DG, Dr Ghebreysus , has said , "Vaccines alone will not end the pandemic. " 
"Many countries need diagnostics, lifesaving therapeutics — including oxygen and support for 
vaccine rollout. " Chair, it is unjustifiable for the W TO membership to remain in a bubble that would 
see it deliver a solution on only one product that is needed for a comprehensive response to the 
pandemic. On Tuesday 19 July, the WHO revealed that coronavirus cases have tripled across Europe 
in the past six  weeks, accounting for nearly half of all infections globally. Given the relative lack of 
access to tests in LICs, all of which are developing countries, cases in these countries are likely to 
be grossly underreported. The acclaim we received for the MC12 outcome will not shield us from 
accountability on 17 December when Ministers and the public, to which we are accountable, will 
expect us to have delivered on the paragraph 8 mandate. This necessitates that we work with speed 
to deliver a comprehensive solu tion that addresses all the aspects of the COVID -19 pandemic. We 
urge this institution to avoid the urge to fall into complacency. Let 's get to work and deliver in the 
interests of our people.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  6.4.  The representative of Djibouti , on behalf of the LDC Group ,  delivered the following statement:  
6.5.  The LDC Group is a co -sponsor of the waiver proposal  IP/C/W/669/REV.1, now reflected  as a 
separate MC -12 decision  WT/MIN(22)/30.  The Group is now engaged with the co -sponsors of the 
original TRIPS Waiver submission  and s upports the proposal that is presented in response to the 
mandate in paragraph 8 of the Ministerial Decision.  The LDC Group thanks the TRIPS Council Chair, 
the DG, DDG, and every delegation with a collective effort for an outcome on the temporary TRIPS 
Waiver. This is a much -delayed decision; however, it is expected that the decision will be helpful for 
scaling up the COVID -19 vaccine production.  
6.6.  There is an urgent need to expand manufacturing globally and to diversify supply of vaccines, 
therapeutics, and other medical products to effectively fight the pandemic.  Ministers  also mandated 
this objective  in the MC12 declaration on WTO Response to Pandemic. Due to limited manufacturers, 
there are significant supply constraints for the therapeutics recommended by  WHO and for 
potentially new therapeutics. Likewise, testing is critical to detect cases, to identify new variants and 
to better understand the scale of infection. It also allows for rapid action to be taken and to break 
the chain of transmission.  Testing in developing countries and especially in least developed countries 
remains low.  The Group is informed that most companies that have patents on instruments, re -
agents and methods discourage competition and do not share the know -how and other critical 
information to scale up production.  The LDC Group stand ready to work constructively with Members 
for extending the MC12 TRIPS Waiver decision to cover the production and supply of COVID -19 
diagnostics and therapeutics . 
6.7.  The representative of Cameroon , on behalf  of the African Group , delivered the following 
statement:  
6.8.  COVID -19 continues to grip the world. A comprehensive approach to fighting against the 
pandemic is critical. The African Group has consistently said that the TRIPS decision should be 
comprehensive, encompassing flexibilities for the production and supply of vaccines, therapeutics 
and diagnostics as a holistic approach to address the pandemic. Access to diagnostics and life -saving 
drugs is limited and when are available, they are unaffordable in most developing countries and 
particularly in Africa. In addition, a significant number of countries are excluded from medicines 
patent pool (MPP) voluntary licensing agreements.  
6.9.  Regarding diagnostics, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been insisting that  testing 
for COVID -19 is critical to curb the pandemic. It is important as the only means of detection of cases. 
It helps countries to establish proper statistics on the level of infection or emergence of new variants 
in the population and leads to informe d preventive actions. However, the production of diagnostics 
is yet concentrated in high -income countries. African states like many other developing countries 
are over -reliant on imported diagnostics which are supplied at higher prices. Diversification of 
production and supply across geographical locations remains an effective way to address the current 
inequity in access to diagnostics, particularly in Africa. Therefore, I want to take this opportunity to 
reiterate our call for an extension of the TRIPS ad opted decision to cover COVID -19 diagnostics.  
6.10.   Equally, on therapeutics, production is concentrated in high -income countries. The importance 
of life -saving drugs cannot be re -emphasized. COVID -19 drugs such as Paxlovid reduce the risks of 
patients getting into critical conditions and death. However, su ch drugs are in short supply and when 
are available in developing countries are unfordable, particularly Africa. This situation also calls for 
an extension of the TRIPS adopted decision to cover COVID -19 therapeutics.  
6.11.   The African Group would like to urge Members to comply with the mandate in Paragraph 8 of 
the Ministerial Decis ion on TRIPS Agreement adopted on 17 June 2022. The cosponsors of the TRIPS 
waiver proposal have submitted document RD/IP/49 , which sets out an indicative timetable for the 
negotiati ons on therapeutics and diagnostics.  
6.12.   Finally, Chair, the negotiation phase mandated in paragraph 8 are a continuation of the TRIPS 
waiver discussions that have been held under Article IX of the Marrakesh Agreement and we would 
expect the TRIPS Council to continue its practice of providing factual status reports to the General 
Council.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  6.13.   The representative of Pakistan  delivered the following statement:  
6.14.   Pakistan wishes to align itself with and echo the statement delivered by South Africa on behalf 
of the co -sponsors of the original TRIPS waiver decision.  While we welcome this Decision as a step 
in the right direction to contribute to our fight against the COVID -19 pandemic, it remains insufficient 
to fully address the challenges in containing COVID -19. Indeed , the solution to the overwhelming 
challenges faced by developing countries in their ongoing fight against C OVID -19 is very limited if it 
remains confined to vaccines and does not address therapeutics and diagnostics.  
6.15.   We wish to note that the world has not  managed to keep COVID -19 at bay, it keeps on 
mutating and spreading. The recent emergence of the Centaurus variant is a case in point. This will 
result in increased pressure on public health and ultimately on the economy in general. Right now 
we are only counting on and hoping that the successive mutations result in 'COVID -lite'. But that is 
conventional wisdom based only on an assumption, easily violated by an outlier variant, something 
we cannot totally discount, especially the way this decade is going s o far. We cannot afford to have 
another string of lockdowns which will wreak havoc on the global economy and will add another 
extra layer of challenges to the economies of developing countries which are still reeling from the 
devastating impacts of the COVID back in 2020 and 2021 . 
6.16.   The extension of the waiver to cover diagnostics and therapeutics is not a mere economic 
argument if we want to effectively fight against the COVID -19. It is a social, moral and political 
responsibility of all nations across the w orld to fight the pandemic as effectively as possible. The 
extension of the waiver to therapeutics and diagnostics, which are increasingly becoming more 
important in this fight, falls squarely within this collective responsibility. At the meeting of the TR IPS 
Council of 6 -7 July 2022, the co -sponsors have circulated a Room Document which provides a 
concrete time frame to fulfil our Ministerial mandate in a timely and effective manner. We wish call 
on Members to consider this timeline before us and work posi tively, constructively, and meaningfully 
to deliver a decision on extending the waiver to therapeutics and diagnostics within the stipulated 
time.  
6.17.   The representative of Kenya , on behalf of the ACP Group , delivered the following statement:  
6.18.   The ACP Group calls for expeditious compliance with the paragraph 8 mandate as in the new 
decision on TRIPS Waiver taken by the Ministers at MC12. COVID -19 infections have increased 
significantly over the past few weeks.  This highlights that the pandemic is far from over and the 
importance of test and treat strategies.  
6.19.   At the TRIPS Council meeting of 6 July 2022, the cosponsors of IP/C/W/669 /Rev.1 submitted 
RD/IP/49 , which includes an indicative schedule of meetings aimed  at assisting the membership to 
comply with the paragraph 8 mandate. Many delegations took the floor to indicate that the proposed 
schedule of meetings was reasonable. We would urge the membership to proceed in accordance 
with the proposed schedule unless compelling reasons as to why the schedule cannot be 
accommodated are advanced.  
6.20.   The paragraph 8 mandate is a continuation of the TRIPS Waiver negotiations conducted under 
Article IX of the Marrakesh Agreement. As such, the practice of the TRIPS Council prov iding factual 
reports to the GC should be continued. Discontinuing this practice would raise questions about the 
WTO's commitment to completing the work assigned to us by Ministers at MC12 and we do not see 
the rationale of doing so.  The ACP Group is commi tted to fulfilling the paragraph 8 mandate. This 
would add to the availability of COVID -19 therapeutics and diagnostics in developing countries and 
significantly contribute to global efforts to end the pandemic.  
6.21.   The representative of Antigua and Barbuda, on behalf of CARICOM,  delivered the following 
statement:  
6.22.   At the outset, we align ourselves with the statement delivered on behalf of the ACP Group. 
CARICOM notes the progress made on the TRIPS Agreement in the Ministerial Decision adopted at 
MC12.  However,  the outcome was partial one, only covering vaccines. The Decision does not cover 
future pandemics which should be considered as equally important. We note the Ministerial Decision 
on the WTO Response to the COVID -19 Pandemic and Preparedness for Future Pa ndemics calling for WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  Members to develop an effective solution for Intellectual Property and technology transfers to cover 
future pandemics.  
6.23.   CARICOM recognizes the work in progress by South Africa, India, Indonesia, Egypt, Pakistan 
and Argentina on behalf o f co–sponsors of IP /C/W/699/Rev.1  on the implementation of paragraph 
8 of the Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS Agreement in RD/IP/49. We are studying the submission 
and will revert with more substantive comments in the near future.  
6.24.   The evidence of the im pact of the COVID -19 Pandemic is one that is still seen and felt. 
Therefore, CARICOM calls on the TRIPS Council to fulfil its obligation to Members to continue this 
important discussion on paragraph 8 of the Ministerial Decision to cover the supply and pro duction 
of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics. Finally , we look forward to the next TRIPS Council 
meeting tentatively scheduled for mid -September to continue this discussions on vaccine 
technologies accessibility for developing members.  
6.25.   The representat ive of Barbados  delivered the following statement:  
6.26.   Barbados welcomes the Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS Agreement adopted on 17 June 
2022. We recognize that the decision includes a built -in provision for Members to decide on an 
extension to cover the pr oduction and supply of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics no later 
than 6 months from the day of the Decision. As we continue to see what is taking place around the 
world, certainly time is not on our side. We therefore thank the co -sponsors of IP/C/W/6 69/Rev.1 
for their statement today and for the active approach in bringing this discussion forward to the 
General Council at an early stage. We are undertaking a comprehensive review of the Ministerial 
Decision in capital, the aim is to see precisely how i ts content can be of benefit to us and how we 
can contribute to the next steps in our discussions on this issue. We continue to be engaged in 
discussions on this decision related to the work of the General Council as well as the TRIPS Council. 
In concludin g, Barbados aligns with the statements of the CARICOM and ACP Groups.  
6.27.   The representative of Argentina  delivered the following statement:  
6.28.   Argentina celebrates the Decision taken at the Ministerial Conference on the TRIPS Waiver. 
We align ourselves with the words of South Africa and we hope that we take into account the 
concerns also that referred to in  its statement. My delegation supports the initiative of an indicative 
timetable to comply with the multilateral agreement that we refer to in Paragraph 8 in order to 
extend therapeutics and diagnostics to combat COVID -19. It is vital that Members continue  the work 
allowing us to increase health access in a universal equitable way to end the pandemic and save 
lives across the world. Argentina would urge dele gations to consider positively the plan outlined , in 
order to move forward in discussions.  
6.29.   The representative of Switzerland  delivered the following statement:  
6.30.   Paragraph 8 of the Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS Agreement provides a mandate for 
Members t o decide no later than 6 months whether or not to extend the decision to cover the 
production and supply of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics. Based on this mandate, 
discussions have started in the TRIPS Council on 6 July . Discussions will resume on 16  September.  
6.31.   Accordingly, there is not much we can say on this agenda item – there is in our view no need 
or value -added for a discussion in the General Council on this matter at this stage.  In the TRIPS 
Council on 6 July, many delegations underlined that they needed time before they are ready to 
engage on the substance of this complex question. Factual analysis and domestic stakeholder 
consultations must indeed take place before we can have a meaningful discussion in the TRIPS 
Council.  
6.32.   The scope of produc ts covered by the Paragraph 8 mandate is potentially very large, and 
COVID -19 therapeutics and diagnostics may serve multiple treatment purposes beyond and outside 
of the COVID -19 pandemic. The discussion must therefore be evidence - and fact based, and we 
firstly need to understand the situation on the ground (including existing licensing activities and 
market conditions for the products concerned). My delegation is currently examining these and other 
factors internally in order to usefully prepare for the discussion in the TRIPS Council, discussion 
which should be open, transparent and inclusive. Regarding the issue of reporting, the Ministerial WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  mandate does not foresee a requirement to submit any intermediary report to the General Council 
on the TRIPS Coun cil's discussion. Hence, my delegation sees no need of the TRIPS Council to report 
to the General Council.  
6.33.   The representative of Indonesia  delivered the following statement:  
6.34.   Indonesia aligns with the statement deliver by South Africa and other cosponsor. As we look 
forward to a world free from the pandemic, our work is far from over and we should seize the 
momentum to build a more resilient global health system, not only for today 's purpose, but also for 
tomorrow 's challenges. The document IP/C/W/669/Rev.1  submitted by the co -sponsors of the TRIPS 
waiver during the previous TRIPS Council meeting, highlights the urgency of holistic 
countermeasures to the pandemics, as well as providing guidance to our work on the remaining key 
issues of therapeutics and diag nostics. We are still in the midst of pandemic, where in some 
countries, including Indonesia, new cases are increasing. Just yesterday in Indonesia, the data shows 
4.048 new cases with 14 deaths. This new case is an increase around 15% compares to the day 
before. Therefore, it is our view that therapeutics and diagnostics are an integral and inseparable 
part of the pandemic 's countermeasures, and its extension should be concluded before December of 
this year . At this juncture, I would like to call on Member s to give positive consideration and inputs 
as well as to work constructively on the document submitted by the cosponsors. Indonesia, along 
with other co -sponsors, stands ready to engage and work with all Members . 
6.35.   The representative of Bangladesh  delivered  the following statement:  
6.36.   The delegation of Bangladesh aligns with the statement delivered by Djibouti on behalf of the 
LDCs.  Bangladesh welcomes the temporary TRIPS Waiver decision at the MC -12 to support 
production and affordable and timely supply of COV ID-19 vaccines with a future opportunity to 
extending the decision for therapeutics and diagnostics.  
6.37.   It is estimated that t he COVID -19 pandemic has caused the deaths of nearly 15 million people 
around the world, which is 13% more deaths than the normally calculated rate over the last two 
years.  The pandemic is not over.  It's devastating impact has already reversed many years ' 
progresses earned by many developing countries including the LDCs. In fact, the LDCs are hit 
hardest, both from social and economic aspects. Hundreds and thousands of people are pushed to 
live under extreme poverty. Because of the pandemic, extreme poverty in the world rose in 2020 
for the first time in over 20 years. According to a World Bank estimate late 2021, around 100 mi llion 
more people are currently living on less than $1.90 a day.  
6.38.   COVID -19 vaccination rate is significantly low in the LDCs and mostly in the African continent. 
The average daily testing rate in developing countries is as low as one -eightieth (1/80) the rate in 
developed countries. A recent WHO statement (22 April 2022) high lights that "Improving access to 
early testing and diagnosis in primary health care settings will be key for the global rollout of this 
treatment ". The MC -12 decision on TRIPS Waiver for the COVID -19 vaccine is just a half -way 
progress. Extending the TRIPS  Waiver decision to cover the production and supply of COVID -19 
therapeutics and diagnostics will immensely help the middle and low -income developing countries 
and the LDCs.  The issues of therapeutics and diagnostics are also emphasised by the Ministers in  
their declaration on WTO Response to Pandemic.  
6.39.   Bangladesh strongly appeals Members to consider the room document (RD/IP/49) circulated 
by South Africa and other delegations on behalf of the proponents on 6 July 2022. The room 
document proposes a tentativ e timeline to finalize the discussion and agree on a positive decision 
as soon as possible in the next couple of months before December 2022.  Bangladesh hopes that 
WTO Members will not fail to deliver a fuller and strengthened TRIPS Waiver decision includi ng the 
therapeutics and diagnostics. My delegation stands ready for further work in this regard.  
6.40.   The representative of the United Kingdom  delivered the following statement:  
6.41.   Let me start by thanking the Chair, the DG and others involved for delivering the WTO's 
response to the pandemic including the TRIPS Decision at MC12. That outcome was clearly important 
in demonstrating how trade can contribute to the response to the pandemic – it was an important 
outcome both substantively and for the credibility of th e WTO. As others have said today, the 
pandemic is clearly not over, and significant issues remain with vaccine equity and access. The UK WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  remains absolutely committed to addressing vaccine inequity and believes that the WTO is pivotal 
to help find solutions  to address the current challenges we face, like manufacturing constraints and 
supply chain issues, including export restrictions and tariff barriers on COVID -19 critical products.  
6.42.   We have always maintained that IP is part of the response to the pandemic.  We are focused 
on how the IP framework can continue being used to address real issues we are now seeing as the 
pandemic evolves.  I recall in that context the comments made on Friday by the Chief Executive of 
GAVI Seth Berkley, that we are now living in "a  world of vaccine abundance" in which they are having 
to work with pharmaceutical companies to minimise wastage in the system. So we need to keep an 
eye on what is happening in the real world and not how we perceived the situation to be a year or 
two years  ago. The UK will continue to engage constructively and in good faith on discussions 
regarding an extension to therapeutics and diagnostics. The appropriate forum for these discussions 
is the TRIPS Council. The UK's view on this issue and next steps is on the record from the last TRIPS 
Council, so I w ill not  repeat it here. We will be focused on doing our homework over the summer to 
ensure we can have an evidence -based and informed discussion when we resume in September. I 
hope that other Members of this or ganisations  do the same.  
6.43.   The representative of Peru delivered the following statement:  
6.44.   The debates and negotiations leading to making paragraph 8 effective of the Ministerial 
Decision on the TRIPS Agreement should respect the principles of openness, transp arency and 
inclusion. We agree that efficient use should be made of the limited time we have because a decision 
should be taken by the end of December. An indicative timetable of meetings could be agreed to 
guide our work. We are happy that the start of th ese discussions have been agreed for this 
September, we also believe that given the nature of the decision to be taken and the speed of 
progress in this area the TRIPS Committee should base its discussions on scientific evidence that is 
updated so that inf ormation can be taken from other organizations such as the WIPO and the WHO. 
Therapeutics and diagnostics are a fundamental element of our comprehensive strategy of fight 
against the virus, this also in a context where new waves of infection are emerging i n different parts 
of the world nevertheless our discussions should be based on updated information and scientific 
evidence that enables us to understand whether the extension is needed or not.  
6.45.   The representative of Norway  delivered the following statement:  
6.46.   The Ministerial Decision adopted on 17 June represents a balanced approach between on the 
one hand ensuring that IPRs do not constitute a barrier to solving the current or future health crises, 
and on the other hand preserving the incentives for innovatio n. As we all know, our work on this 
issue is not finished. In fact, work on the follow -up of Paragraph 8 of the Ministerial Decision has 
already commenced within the context of the TRIPS Council.  Norway will continue to engage 
constructively in our common search for a balanced solution that can achieve consensus. As always, 
we expect that negotiations will be conducted in a manner which is open, transparent and inclusive.  
6.47.   The representative of Nepal  delivered the following statement:  
6.48.   I support the statement  delivered by South Africa and other proponents in favour of the 
agenda item. My delegation welcomes the decision of the MC12 on TRIPS waiver which is a historical 
decision in the WTO functioning. It would definitely contribute to saving lives of people ar ound the 
world especially the bottom billions. This decision by itself is not sufficient. We need to redouble our 
efforts by demonstrating flexibility and constructive engagement with a view to taking a decision on 
its extension to cover production and sup ply of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics in a timely 
manner as mandated by the Paragraph  8 of the Ministerial Decision on TRIPS Agreement. As the 
number of infected people in different parts of the world is on the rise again since the past few 
weeks, t his aspect needs to be addressed on an urgent and priority basis.  
6.49.   The representative of the Maldives  delivered the following statement:  
6.50.   I want to begin by noting the clear mandate set to us in paragraph 8 of the TRIPS Waiver by 
Ministers at MC12 to decide  on the extension of the waiver to diagnostics and therapeutics in the 
treatment of C OVID -19. Time is already ticking on the short 6 months provided us to reach this 
decision, so diligent work and discussion on this issue are necessary.  The Omicron variant  and its 
subsequent variants have altered the course of the pandemic. BA.4 and BA.5 are the latest WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  subvariants of Omicron and have increasingly eroded the immunity provided by vaccines. The 
Omicron variant first surged in case numbers at the end of 2022 le ading into this year and the highly 
infectious strain has already mutated at least four times to this point. This rapid rate of mutation 
poses a real challenge to response systems as scientists struggle to keep up in the creation of 
effective vaccines. Vac cines are still a necessary and important component to the pandemic 
response, but Omicron has clearly demonstrated that Vaccines alone are not enough.  
6.51.   An extension to the waiver to cover diagnostics and therapeutics will mean testing capacities 
of develop ing members will greatly improve. Testing is vital as it enables our health systems to track 
and identify new variants and for new treatments to be created. It also enables more effective 
management of the spread of new vaccine resistant variants by provid ing authorities and the public 
of accurate and fast information with which they can act accordingly. The extension to therapeutics 
is necessary to cover the instances where proper testing, distancing, and vaccinations were not 
enough. There are a wide rang e of therapeutics in development currently, which is promising for 
those affected by COVID , but it also presents a significant challenge in navigating the patent 
landscape of these emerging therapeutics. Extending the waiver to account for therapeutics as they 
are developed will be crucial in ensuring an effective response and management of the pandemic for 
all members.  
6.52.   The Maldives stresses the need to begin substantive discussions on fulfilling the mandate as 
set by ministers in MC12 on completing Paragr aph 8 of the TRIPS waiver. We support the schedule 
of meetings as suggested by the room document circulated by the core group and look forward to 
further engagement and work on this critical issue.  
6.53.   The representative of Sri Lanka  delivered the following s tatement:  
6.54.   Sri Lanka would like to thank South Africa for its statement on behalf of co -sponsors of 
proposal  IP/C/W/669/Rev.1 . The world is now experiencing an evolution of  the COVID -19 pandemic . 
It is observed that  antibodies triggered by vaccination are less effective in responding to  new variants 
of the pandemic such as  Omicron and even vaccinated people  with boosters  are vulnerable to 
multiple infections  of new variants . On the other hand, therapeutic options for  COVID -19 
recommended by the WHO are either unavailable or unaffordable for developing countries.  
6.55.   IP monopolies , especially  relating to  patents , remain a major barrier to scaling up production 
and to facilitating equitable access. Supply constraints are expected to continue during  2022 as well  
even for products for which  voluntary license s have been granted . There are significant supply 
constraints for the therapeutics recommended by the WHO and also for new therapeutics due to 
limited number of manufacture rs. Diagnostics are critical for effective use of therapeutics. Testing 
helps to identify  new COVID -19 variants and to develop effective vaccines and therapeutics. Testing 
in developing countries , especially in LDCs , remains absurdly low.  
6.56.   In this regard, S ri Lanka would like to reiterate that the current TRIPS decision will not provide 
any credible solution to COVID -19, if its scope is not  immediately extend ed to therapeutics and 
diagnostics. Therefore, equitable  and affordable access to therapeutics and di agnostics  still remain s 
a massive challenge for  developing countries and LDCs. Considering the ongoing challenges and 
experiences shared by many countries with regard to facing COVID -19 pandemic, the Sri Lankan 
delegation would like to re -emphasize that the TRIPS Decision needs to be extended to  cover the 
production and supply of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics .  
6.57.   Sri Lanka is of the view  that negotiation s in this regard should be  commence d as quickly as 
possible  so that a final decision could be reached within six months  as mandated in Ministerial 
Decision  on the TRIPS Agreement adopted at MC12 on 17 June. Sri Lanka echoes the concerns 
expressed by co-sponsors of the proposal, particularly in relation to lack of clarity on the way forward 
leading up to the delivery of the final outcome on the remaining Ministerial decision by the end of 
2022. Sri Lanka reiterates its support to the latest proposal contained in the unofficial room 
document RD/IP/49 dated 6 July sub mitted by co -sponsors.  Sri Lanka w ill continue  to engage in all  
future discussions  on this very important file constructively . WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  6.58.   The representative of the European Union  delivered the following statement:  
6.59.   The European Union welcomes the outcome achieved duri ng the WTO Ministerial Conference 
in June on a number of clarifications and a waiver of certain obligations of the TRIPS Agreement to 
allow eligible WTO Members to authorise a company to manufacture and export COVID -19 vaccines 
in a fast and simplified man ner without the consent of the patent owner. The solution backs and 
clarifies the flexibilities that exist in the TRIPS Agreement. It simplifies the process to export vaccines 
and their ingredients to other developing countries which should help overcome d ifficulties related 
to the domestic implementation of the TRIPS Agreement flexibilities and support developing 
countries in scaling up their production capacity and supplying vaccines to other developing 
countries.  
6.60.   The outcome and the discussions that we have had over the last year should also lead to all 
WTO Members equipping themselves with agile and efficient legislative frameworks that fully use all 
the flexibilities that already exist in the TRIPS Agreement. The outcome maintains t he protection of 
intellectual property, a key element for developing countries not only to benefit from the innovation 
that the system sustains , but also to have the environment that incentivises the needed investments 
in the pharmaceutical sector.  The Eur opean Union is ready to engage constructively in the 
discussions on the extension of the mechanism agreed by the WTO Ministerial Conference to 
therapeutics and diagnostics. We are currently analysing the situation on the market as regards 
these products in  order to prepare consultations with our member States.  
6.61.   The representative of Malaysia  delivered the following statement:  
6.62.   At the outset, allow me to thank Madam Director -General, Madam DDG Gonzalez, and you 
Chair for your collective leadership in deliveri ng the first Ministerial Decision on the TRIP S 
Agreement. This is a testament that with pragmatism and flexibility, we could deliver an outcome. 
With the recent TRIP S Ministerial Decision, we believe that vaccine equity can be improved in the 
vulnerable pa rts of the world in a timely manner.  We remain cognisant of the role of intellectual 
property rights in research and development. Nonetheless, the COVID -19 experience tells us that 
addressing this life -threatening pandemic situation now and in the future w arrants more 
comprehensive and decisive interventions. Therefore, we will continue our endeavour to deliver an 
inclusive WTO 's response to the pandemic.  
6.63.   The representative of Japan  delivered the following statement:  
6.64.   Intellectual Property Rights and the TR IPS Agreement ha ve played an important role for the 
development of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics as well as vaccines to counter the disease. 
With regard to Paragraph 8 of the document, discussions on the extension to cover diagnostics and 
therapeut ics should be based on facts and evidence.  In particular, it is widely recognized that 
diagnostics and therapeutics are different from vaccines in terms of their properties, situation of use 
and distribution pattern. Accordingly, the discussion on this iss ue should take such facts and 
evidence in the market and supply chain into consideration.  Japan always remained constructively 
involved in the discussions on vaccine IP toward the recent MC12 Ministerial Decision, and will 
continue to do the same in future  discussions on this issue.  
6.65.   The representative of Chile delivered the following statement:  
6.66.   Our delegation would like to use this opportunity to celebrate the agreement reached during 
the Twelfth Ministerial Conference with the aim of improving the production and distribution of 
COVID -19 vaccines worldwide.  For our delegation, it is important that t he discussions we will have 
on this issue are inclusive and transparent. In terms of procedure, we believe that it is extremely 
important for all delegations to have the opportunity to submit their proposals and be heard during 
the discussion, thus ensurin g a constructive debate and allowing us to arrive at an outcome that can 
garner consensus.  
6.67.   In our view, it is crucial that the delegations should not lose their sense of urgency. They 
should adopt a pragmatic and evidence -based approach when exchanging vie ws by considering the 
particular needs and challenges of developing countries in responding to the pandemic.  I would like 
to reaffirm Chile's commitment to the Ministerial Declaration on the WTO Response to the COVID -
19 Pandemic and Preparedness for Future  Pandemics, which aims to identify effective solutions. As WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  we have pointed out in previous meetings, we are convinced that a holistic response is the best way 
forward.  We reiterate that our delegation will participate constructively during the discussions under 
this agenda item.  
6.68.   The representative of the Republic of Korea  delivered the following statement:  
6.69.   Korea welcomes the MC12 Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS Agreement as a meaningful 
outcome for the WTO's response to the COVID -19 pandemic. My delegation will continue to work 
closely with Members in the upcoming discussions on Paragraph 8.  The past negot iation was a 
process aimed at striking a right balance between the two critical values of the IP world, namely 
promoting innovation for essential medicine and enabling equitable access to vaccines. Subsequent 
discussions on Paragraph 8 will push us to find  another delicate balance, which will be made possible 
through sound evidence -based discussions, taking into consideration what is going on out there on 
the ground.  
6.70.   Looking back on past negotiations, one of the most contentious points that persisted up to 
the last minute was the scope of the subject matter of a patent to be covered by the Decision. 
Defining the scope requires an analysis of the potential impacts of the Decision on the stakeholders. 
Therefore, in discussing the extension of coverage of the D ecision to COVID -19 diagnostics and 
therapeutics, we need to take into account the different nature and circumstances of the scope of 
patents for diagnostics and therapeutics.  In this regard, I understand that as a preparatory step for 
future discussions, consultations with stakeholders are underway in many countries, Korea included. 
We also look forward to working with Members under the mandate of the Decision and engaging 
constructively in the upcoming discussions.  
6.71.   The representative of Colombia  delivere d the following statement:  
6.72.   Colombia supports a simple extension of the waiver decision to therapeutic medicines and 
diagnostic technologies. The global COVID pandemic is not over, and the WTO must show the same 
flexibility and strength as it did with vacci nes for therapeutics and diagnostics too. Moreover, our 
alternatives are limited. Colombia believes that reopening a process of negotiation of the text for 
these new elements would be a very complicated option.  The "no decision" option is also a bad 
altern ative, for the same reasons that led us to adopt the first decision. The world is still watching, 
so the most practical and reasonable approach would be to simply extend the decision to cover the 
two new categories of health therapy.  
6.73.   Lastly, Colombia would  like to express its concern about the text in footnote 1 regarding 
waiver eligibility. This was an issue that, as we all know, was initially of particular interest to 
two Members, and we all hoped for a solution that would accommodate them both. This was achieved 
and welcomed. The resulting text, however, went further and introduced aspects that covered 
elements additional to the conditions intended only for these two Members. Colombia can live with 
this, but wishes to place on record in this General Counc il that the solution that was entrusted to 
the negotiators ended up affecting everyone.  In any case, Colombia advocates a simple extension 
of the decision that was adopted. And not only simple but also fast. We believe that simplicity also 
makes us effecti ve, and we could respond much quicker than within the six months initially envisaged 
and thus better respond to those who say that the WTO took too long to get the ball rolling.  
6.74.   The representative of Brazil  delivered the following statement:  
6.75.   Brazil has be en an active participant of the discussions leading to the Ministerial Decision on 
the TRIPS Agreement during MC12. In our view, that decision represents a balance that preserves 
the integrity of the TRIPS Agreement while improving and streamlining the use  of special compulsory 
licensing. We believe that the same rationale could benefit the ongoing discussions on the extension 
of that decision to therapeutics and diagnostics.  We remain read to assess Members ' proposals on 
that regard.  
6.76.   The representative of  the Plurinational State of Bolivia  delivered the following statement:  
6.77.   We align ourselves with the statement made by South Africa . As we said in earlier meetings 
of the TRIPS Committee, we are in favour of the decision made during MC12 and we have to conti nue 
our discussions regarding therapeutics and diagnostics. Any decision made should not slow down WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  matters, we need to have a slate of meetings to continue our work in this regard. We only have six 
months ahead of us. We think the discussions should be tra nsparent and inclusive, we are in favour 
of a patent system that can involve all countries so they can work in a very constructive way to bring 
us forward.  
6.78.   The representative of Angola  delivered the following statement:  
6.79.   The Ministerial Decision limits the TRIPS waiver and clarifications on COVID -19 vaccines (now 
in surplus) as well as postpone reference to tests and treatments where access is often more uneven. 
This situation represents a real challenge for LDCs and developing countries, and beca use of that 
we can only take a good note of and hope that a solution will be find promptly.  The Ministerial 
Decision waiver formula is also likely to limit, either explicitly or implicitly, those countries that can 
export vaccines under a compulsory licens e to producers with less than 10% of the world 's COVID 
vaccine export capacity, thus excluding the world 's biggest exporters of vaccines and medicines.  
6.80.   In the same manner, the Ministerial Decision 's exception to the export restrictions will only 
last five years. Currently, no LDC or developing countries ' vaccines are manufactured under a 
compulsory license. For the Decision to have any use for vaccines, a LDC or developing country 
would have to issue a compulsory license on a vaccine, obtain regulatory appr oval for that vaccine, 
and export more than 50 percent of the output. Therefore, it seems that under optimistic scenarios, 
it could take 2 to 3 years to bring a new COVID vaccine into the market, given the increasing 
challenges in obtaining regulatory appr oval. That would only give the developer a few years of sales 
under the exception if, having the proper means, they would begin working today. For this reason, 
we can say without any doubt, that the Ministerial Decision would not lead to any new vaccine 
manufacturing worldwide, let alone in LDC and developing countries.  
6.81.   Despite these inconsistencies, Angola has supported the adoption of the MC12 Ministerial 
Decision on this issue mainly due to its clarifications on current TRIPS "flexibilities ", including Article 
39.3 Safeguards System and the complex 2003 TRIPS amendment, known as 31 bis,  notably on the 
process of notification and anti -diversion through texts much shorter and more usable. Thus, it is 
worth recalling that in the 19 years since its adoption,  the TRIPS amendment 31 bis mechanism has 
been successfully used only once, by Apotex in Canada to export an HIV drug to Rwanda. However, 
Apotex has indicated that it would never attempt to use the mechanism again, given the considerable 
complexity and del ays it experienced so far.  
6.82.   The Ministerial Decision under debate is part of a much larger set of MC12 declarations on 
critical challenges regarding the present and future pandemics, climate change, or food security. In 
consequence, Angola would like to inv ite the General Council and the subsidiary bodies to embrace 
a more comprehensive and multidisciplinary perspective. Finally Chair, Angola, as a LDC graduating 
country supports the rapid implementation of Paragraph 8 of the Ministerial Decision on the TRIP S 
Agreement adopted on June 17 2022 (WT/MIN(22)/30), and extending the waiver within the 
framework of the principles established in the IP/C/W/669/R ev.1. 
6.83.   The representative of Egypt  delivered the following statement:  
6.84.   I extend our greetings and appreciation to you, Chair, and the Director -General for the sincere 
efforts you put in order to have a successful Ministerial Conference. I would also like to extend our 
greetings and appreciation to the distinguished ambassador s who are leaving us and welcome the 
new permanent representatives wishing them all success in their endeavours. Egypt supports the 
statement made by the delegation of Cameroon on behalf of the African Group, and South by Africa 
on behalf of the co -sponsor s. Our position is well -known , and we shall not repeat it today, 
nonetheless we need to reiterate that if our discussions leading to a decision shall be evidence based, 
then the TRIPS decision should be extended to cover therapeutics and diagnostics withou t any 
further due. We invite our trade partners to engage with us on the basis of the evidence presented 
or prepared by relevant international bodies, especially the WHO, and on the basis of the timeframe 
we suggested in our room document. The WTO should a dopt a comprehensive response to the 
pandemic by making a positive decision in December and extend it to cover therapeutics and 
diagnostics.  
6.85.   For the benefit of time, my delegation thought of taking the floor one time today, with your 
permission I will add  the following with respect to agenda items 1, 2 and 3 . Egypt affirms its WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  commitment to implementing the decisions of the 12th Ministerial Conference and the Ministerial 
Conferences in Bali and Nairobi. We would like to support the interventions of the Afr ican Group and 
the Arab Group, made under those agenda items. We would also like to confirm that what was 
included in the statement made by my delegation at the meetings of the Heads of Delegations earlier 
this month.  
6.86.   The representative of Zimbabwe  delive red the following statement:  
6.87.   Zimbabwe aligns with the statements of the African Group, ACP Group and the submission by 
South Africa on the issue under discussion. The Decision by Ministers at the MC12 gave the window 
of 6 months for us to work and time is not our side. COVID -19 is still with us and the people of the 
countries we represent here are looking to us to resolve on the production of COVID -19 related 
products, hence the need for work to start. Zimbabwe is ready and committed to work with Members 
on this issue in a transparent and all -inclusive manner.  
6.88.   The representative of China  delivered the following statement:  
6.89.   China would like to appreciate efforts made by all during the MC12, making the TRIPS Waiver 
on vaccines, an issue of importance for many for a successful MC12. This outcome is not only helpful 
in promoting the accessibility and affordability of the COVID -19 vaccines but also demonstrates the 
good faith and the cooperation within this Organization. With regard to the mandate contained in 
paragraph 8 of the Ministerial Decision, as in China's saying, "strike the iron while it is hot", we 
should maintain the positive spirit and start our work immediately since there are only five months 
ahead of us. China thanks the proponents for the room docu ment circulated at the TRIPS Council 
meeting, we will make better use of summer break to conduct domestic consultations and analysis 
and to be ready for the discussions after summer break with a view to delivering outcome in line 
with the mandate given by Ministers at MC12. I would like also to take this opportunity to associate 
China with the statement made by Indonesia as G -33 coordinator under item 3 on PSH.  
6.90.   The representative of Singapore  delivered the following statement:  
6.91.   Singapore welcomes the outcome  of the TRIPS Waiver decision at MC12, it demonstrated 
Members' ability to work together and exercise flexibility when the time calls for it. In this connection, 
Singapore thanks the co -sponsors for room document RD/IP/49 proposing a schedule of meetings 
to discuss paragraph 8 of the Ministerial Decision. This is a concrete first step to start discussions 
on an important issue. First, it is useful to remind ourselves that the fundamental objective of the 
TRIPS Waiver is to save lives, based on scientific ev idence is establish that vaccination remains the 
best response to combat the pandemic. According to The Lancet, a respected medical journal, 
vaccinations have prevented at least 14.4 million deaths in 185 countries in 2021. However, to date 
we have only ac hieved a global vaccination rate of 68.8% which means that more than 2 billion 
people have not received their first dose of vaccine . This is unattainable and undesirable situation 
given that there is a global oversupply of COVID -19 vaccines. Second, the pr essing priority is to 
remove the bottlenecks that have prevented vaccines from being delivered into the arms of the 
unvaccinated. We need to carefully examine whether and how intellectual property has hindered 
equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics and zooming to resolve the problems. 
Third, we must continue to adopt a long -term perspective and ensure that we preserve the incentives 
for innovation so that we are better prepared to respond to future pandemics. Singapore stands 
ready to wo rk closely with all Members to exercise pragmatism and flexibility in order to ensure that 
the WTO can formulate a holistic and realistic response to the pandemic.  
6.92.   The representative of India delivered the following statement:  
6.93.   On behalf of co -sponsors of IP/C/W/669/Rev.1, I would like to thank all the participants in 
this debate. And let me congratulate Madam DG and all Members for achieving this significant 
outcome at the Ministerial Conference. The much -delayed outcome is by no means perfect and falls 
short of what the co -sponsors of the 669 -waiver proposal had expected. Nevertheless, it is by no 
means a small feat. It signifies that the WTO membership, despite deep divergences , can deliver. 
The decision provides yet another opportunity for the Organizati on to further deliver upon the 
mandate as provided in paragraph eight of the Ministerial Decision and to decide to extend the scope 
of the decision to COVID -19 therapeutics and diagnostics.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  6.94.   The co -sponsors had circulated  a room document  on 6 July, RD/IP/4 9, to put forth a timeline 
to assist ourselves in scheduling and prioritizing our work in the TRIPS Council to fulfil the mandate 
in paragraph 08 within the stipulated time of six months.  And we were happy to note during that 
discussion on 6 –7 July that it was well received by the Members in the last TRIPS Council meeting. 
But somehow, we are surprised to see this hesitation from the institution. We are not able to continue 
discussion in TR IPS Council and we are waiting for summer break and the things to resume maybe 
in the month of September. But that would mean that out of targeted time period of 6 months, 
3 months would be over by the time TRIPS Council meeting will be convened in the mon th of 
September. So, I again urge the Secretariat to convene TRIPS Council meeting and we will continue 
to work during summer break with domestic stakeholders as well as those delegates who are present 
in Geneva or who can attend through video conferencing . 
6.95.   I would like to remind that ramping up production for therapeutics and diagnostics have been 
thoroughly discussed in various formats on several occasions for the past two years. So, for the 
matter of evidence -based discussions, proponents have already submitted numerous documents 
while giving the proposal in IP/C/W/669 Rev .1, which was followed by three -four very elaborated 
documents.  I will request Members who are asking for new evidence to please go through those 
documents and to also go throu gh the documents released by WHO, which has well recognized that 
therapeutics and diagnostics a re integral components of a comprehensive prevent, test and treat 
strategy to combat the pandemic.  
6.96.   Let us not forget that the pandemic is not over yet. I'm not repeating the numbers mentioned 
here on the new cases , the new hospitalizations and death. It still remains a public health emergency 
of international concern. It is well recognized now that the testing and treatment are essential 
aspects of controlling an d managing COVID -19. Therefore, in order to follow test and treatment 
model, we need to make therapeutics and diagnostics not only available , but also affordable and 
accessible. I, therefore, call upon Members to get to work.  Let us target the next General  Council in 
October to deliver on this mandate and not wait until the last General Council of the year. And even 
while working towards the October General Council, if we are unable to finalize this, we can have a 
special General Council prior to the Decemb er General Council to fulfil this mandate. We are willing 
to work in TRIPS Council and in various configuration to bring this agenda in the month of October 
General Council to deliver. Let us all collectively strive to achieve this.  
6.97.   The representative of the United States  delivered the following statement:  
6.98.   I just want to make a very quick point on the conversation that we had on paragraph 8 of the 
TRIPS Decision. It relates back to a comment I had made earlier about mandates. And I just want 
to be very cle ar that we do not view Paragraph 8 as a mandate, it is simply a deadline . It is not a 
mandate to do something, it is a deadline to make a decision on whether or not to extend what was 
agreed to therapeutics and diagnostics . From our perspective this is a v ery important difference. I 
am not going to get into the substance of whether or not it should be extended , but just want to be 
very clear that it is not a mandate to extend , but a mandate to have a conversation and come to a 
decision on whether or not to do so.    
6.99.   The representative of Botswana  provided  the following statement:  
6.100.   We thank the delegations of South Africa, India, Indonesia, Egypt, Pakistan and Argentina 
on behalf of the co -sponsors for the statement. In accordance with Paragraph 8 of the Minist erial 
Decision on the TRIPS Agreement, my delegation reiterates the need for Members to collectively 
work expeditiously with a view to conclude negotiations on the extension that will allow the 
production and supply of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics, within the 6 -months timeline in 
compliance with the Ministerial Decision.   
6.101.   The representative of Canada  provided  the following statement:  
6.102.   Canada was pleased to see the international community come together to find a multilateral 
solution on t he TRIPS waiver at MC12, as part of the broader MC12 outcome on the WTO Response 
to the Pandemic.  Canada has long recognized and promoted the importance of balance in IP 
frameworks that provide incentives for innovation while ensuring that WTO Members can continue 
to pursue important public policy objectives, like public health. Canada also recognizes that the WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  global management of COVID -19 is informed by a broad range of factors, including supply chain 
barriers and considerations related to the distribution  and delivery of medical interventions.  
6.103.   In this regard, Canada continues to support a broad range of near -term solutions to enhance 
immunization and access to COVID -19 medical interventions and diagnostics, including those 
measures contemplated under the WTO Response the Pandemic, such as to address supply chain 
constraints and export restrictions, as well as ongoing support  for the Access  to COVID -19 Tools  
Accelerator and its vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics pillars.  
6.104.   Further to direction by Ministe rs in the Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS Agreement, Canada 
remains committed to engaging constructively with all WTO Members on the scope of the TRIPS 
waiver.  Canada remains interested in engaging Members in an evidence -based discussion on any 
challenge s experienced in producing and/or accessing diagnostics and therapeutics, with a view to 
identifying whether Members had experienced challenges related to or arising from the TRIPS 
Agreement.  We look forward to the resumption of those discussions at the ne xt TRIPS Council 
meeting on 16  September.  
6.105.   The General Council took note  of the statements made.  
7  TRADE RELATED CHALLENGES OF THE LEAST DEVELOPED COUNTRES AND WAY 
FORWARD (WT/GC/W/807) – REQUEST FROM DJIBOUTI ON BEHALF OF THE LDC GROUP  
7.1.  The representative of  Djibouti , on behalf of the LDC Group , delivered the following statement:  
7.2.  Notwithstanding the disappointment of the Group that the LDC proposal on an interim 
arrangement for smooth graduation of LDCs was not eventually given consideration at MC12, the 
LDC Group resumes under this agenda to obtain a decision that would allow for the extension of 
measures to those Members that will graduate from the LDC category.  The LDC Group deliberated 
on the preambular language now found in Paragraph 5 of the MC12 Out come document, which is 
the first multilaterally agreed acknowledgement by WTO Members on this issue at a ministerial 
conference.  However, this provision was to be taken together with a separate interim decision for 
MC12, until the LDC Group could come bac k to conduct the further work necessary to meet the 
expectations of LDC Ministers.   
7.3.  Our proposal is not new, and we are thankful to all delegations who have been continuously 
supporting the LDCs. LDC Graduation will not fix our inherited challenges overnig ht. However, all 
LDCs will graduate eventually. This is also a target of the global community, and the WTO cannot 
stay behind. A decision in the WTO to extend the LDC -specific flexibilities for a few more years after 
graduation from the LDC category will h ave negligible impact on global trade. On the other hand, 
having such a forward -looking provision will greatly encourage all LDCs to graduate. And we just 
wish to reflect that currently 26 LDCs are in the process of graduation.  
7.4.  The Group wants to continue  our discussion to garner support from all Members for a positive 
outcome in this regard. We are open to hear everyone.  The LDC Group hopes that before, and at 
MC13, its current proposal will be prioritised in terms of time and outcomes by the next Ministe rial 
Conference.  
7.5.  The representative of Bangladesh  delivered the following statement:  
7.6.  Bangladesh aligns with the statement delivered by Djibouti on behalf of the LDC Group.  The 
LDC graduation is one of the key priorities of the LDC Group. The proposal has a lready been 
discussed several times at the WTO General Council since December 2020.  The LDC Group also 
provided factsheet on the graduation process including the current state of trade and economy in 
the LDCs. In October 2021, in view of the time constrain ts before the scheduled MC12 last year, the 
LDC group submitted a draft decision as an interim arrangement on LDC Graduation with two 
sections. As we approached to the MC12 w e lowered our expectation, to the level of best endeavor 
effort, to provide comfor t to delegations. Yet, a decision eluded us. MC12 in June 2022 concluded 
without any LDC specific outcome.  
7.7.  We are thankful to all delegations who have been continuously supporting the LDCs. As the 
LDC Coordinator has pointed out, the LDC Graduation will n ot fix our inherited challenges overnight. WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  However, all LDCs will graduate eventually and this is a target of the global community. A decision 
in the WTO to extend the LDC -specific flexibilities for a few more years after graduation from the 
LDC category w ill have negligible impact on global trade.  
7.8.  The MC12 Outcome Document  (WT/MIN(22)/24 and WT/L/1135) , paragraph , 5 acknowledges 
the particular challenges including the loss of trade -related international support measures when 
members leave the LDC category . The Ministers also recognize that through some measures the 
WTO can facilitate smooth and sustainable transition for these Members after graduation. The LDC 
Group wants to build on this goodwill gesture and looks forward to further engaging with Members 
to get a positive outcome on this submission.  Along with the LDC Group, the delegation of 
Bangladesh hopes that the proposal will be supported and finalized by Members much ahead of the 
next Ministerial Conference.  
7.9.  The representative of Angola  delivered the following statement:  
7.10.   My delegation  aligns  itself with the statement  made  by Djibouti,  on behalf  of the LDC, by 
Jamaica,  on behalf  of the ACP, and by Cameroon,  on behalf  of the African  Group.  
7.11.   The final MC12 outcom e document (WT/MIN(22)/24 and WT/L/1135) stresses, in its 2nd, 4th 
and 8th paragraphs, the urgency to implement differential treatment for LDC both in trade in goods 
and services, while the 5th paragraph recognizes the need for a smooth LDC graduation , granting 
our countries timely unilateral trade preferences and preferential market access. The other MC12 
declarations and the Agreement on fisheries subsidies also express or realize other LDC exceptions 
and promise special support mechanisms.  
7.12.   Since MC9, hel d in Bali in 2013, numerous WTO declarations to further support LDC's full 
integration in the World Multilateral Trade System have been repeatedly made. However, the 
Istanbul Programme of Action (IPoA) for 2011 -2022, forecasting that LDCs would double thei r 
contribution to global trade, failed completely. The proposal on "Trade -related Challenges of the 
LDCs and Way Forward " (WT/GC/ W/807)" that dates back to December 2020 is a critical attempt 
to rebuild a new global answer to LDC's deep problems and prese nt challenges. It has since been 
discussed in countless WTO council and committees ' meetings and has widely circulated among the 
MC12 members and observers. It is therefore, time to implement all the decisions of previous 
Ministerial Conferences reaffirmed  in the MC12 supporting the LDC.  
7.13.   Angola continues to support the present proposal under debate to extend all support measures 
benefitting graduating LDCs for a period of twelve years after their graduation, thus gradually 
phasing out their preferential market access, other preferences and exclusions, including the 
obligations ' waiver under paragraphs 8 and 9 of Article 70 of the TRIPS Agreement. We also uphold 
an interim arrangement for smooth LDC transition by calling on WTO state -members t o grant LDCs 
unilateral trade preferences, to extend and gradually dispose of their preferential market access 
scheme for graduated countries over a period of six to nine years.  
7.14.   Finally, it has been clear for several years, and it became utterly evident wi th the global 
pandemic crisis, that without a structural transformation that prioritizes economic diversification and 
addresses institutional and capacity constraints, including on health and other primary public 
services, the LDCs will remain vulnerable t o various socio -economic, health and environmental 
shocks. Therefore, we reiterate the importance of the adoption of a pragmatic framework of concrete 
package of support measures in favor of LDCs smooth transition as proposed for adoption at the 
forthcomin g Fifth United Nations Conference on Least Developed Countries (LDC5).  
7.15.   The representative of Kenya , on behalf of the ACP Group , delivered the following statement:  
7.16.   The ACP Group continues to pledge its full support for this important submission on behalf o f 
the LDC Group.  It is unfortunate that time was not taken at MC12 to consider the interim proposal.  
However, we are ready to resume consideration of WT/GC/W/807.  The ACP Group continues to 
believe that graduation is never automatically accompanied by favo urable conditions that warrant 
immediate relinquishing of LDCs flexibilities. We draw Members attention to our remarks since this 
proposal was placed on the agenda of the General Council. As our membership includes several 
LDCs, we urge all Members to favo urably respond to the proposal so as to reach an agreement that WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  is acceptable to LDCs, and which will indeed fulfil the UN mandate of smooth transition of all LDCs 
when they graduate from LDC status.  
7.17.   The representative of Cambodia  delivered the following statement:  
7.18.   My delegation would like to associate ourselves with the statement by Djibouti on behalf of 
the LDC Group.  After the hectic works during the MC12, we believe that this is now the time to 
reinvigorate this proposal to add ress the issue of a smooth transition of countries graduating out of 
the LDC category.  I would like to stress that graduating out of LDC status indicate the level of 
achievement and development of a country, but it also brought about new challenges which t he 
newly graduated country would need to face.  
7.19.   A smooth transition arrangement would be an encouragement for LDCs to strive toward 
development and thus graduation. The LDCs are already facing numerous challenges and graduation 
would add another level of ch allenges that are needed to be addressed. Therefore, the proposed 
extension would provide this much needed time for graduated countries to adjust to new 
surroundings and make appropriate adjustments to sustain their level of development.  
7.20.   At this juncture, I would like to point out once again that LDCs ' share of world export of goods 
is currently at 1.01% and it will hover around that rate for the foreseeable future, and this is with 
LDCs receiving preferential market access. In relation to this, I must poin t out that we have by far 
missed the target of SDG 17.11 that aimed to double LDCs ' share of global export by 2020.  
Therefore, the proposed transition period would go a long way in sustaining and accelerating the 
level of development of graduating LDCs and to avoid falling into a situation that stagnate 
development progress.  I would like to point out that the LDC Group has been listening to views of 
all Members and have made appropriate adjustments which reflect strong flexibility and ful l 
engagement on our part.  
7.21.   We once again would like to urge all Members to work constructively on this proposal, the 
detailed for which have already been outlined by Djibouti on behalf of the LDC Group and by 
Bangladesh, the focal point on graduation . I wou ld like to reiterate that we are fully ready to engage 
all partners to discuss this proposal toward a positive outcome . 
7.22.   The representative of Nepal  delivered the following statement:  
7.23.   I associate with the statement delivered by Djibouti on behalf of the LDC  Group and wish to 
add some points.  This agenda item has been continuously discussed since December 2020 and large 
scale of membership has expressed their views in its favour. I thank all Members who were engaged 
constructively before the MC12 with the exp ectation of taking needful decision. The LDC Group also 
demonstrated sufficient flexibility to accommodate members ' concerns.   
7.24.   However, I regret to mention that this matter could not be included in the list of priority areas 
of the MC12 in finalizing its d ecisions and declarations. We, LDCs , tried our best from our side but 
we were not heard well, and this item was left aside. Now, referring to the paragraph 5 of the 
Outcome Document, the LDC Group has again brought this issue forward with a view to conclud ing 
it at the earliest possible.  
7.25.   I am not going through all rationales and justifications we have presented in various rounds 
of discussions before the MC12 since December 2020. I would just like to share three points: First, 
LDCs are asking not for any n ew thing, but mere for a continuation of existing facilities and flexibility 
for a few more years after graduation for ensuring their path to sustainable graduation. Second, this 
should not be linked with any other issues of WTO reform or reform of special  and differential 
treatment provisions because it is not intended for a long time and is not a new subject. Third, this 
is not a demand of LDCs per se, but an essential component agreed upon by global leaders at 
different international forums. Finally, my delegation extends sincere thanks to all Members who 
have supported this agenda and urges the entire membership to consider it as an urgent and special 
matter without linking to other issues at the WTO functioning.  My delegation stands ready to 
constructiv ely engage with members for an early conclusion of this matter.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  7.26.   The representative of South Africa  delivered the following statement:  
7.27.   We thank Djibouti and the LDC Group for the proposal contained in document WT/GC/W/807. 
We support the statement by the A CP and the Africa n Group . The topic of LDC graduation has 
generated increasing interest since the adoption of the LDC Ministerial Declaration in 2017 calling 
for positive action on LDC graduation. Since then, the LDC Group has put forward several graduatio n-
related proposals in various WTO bodies. It is regrettable that there was no outcome on this 
important issue at MC12. As the submission correctly states, while meeting the graduation criteria 
remains a major achievement, graduated LDCs still face signifi cant trade and development 
challenges. Graduation means loss of access to a wide range of international support measures which 
contributes to socio -economic development, including trade -related measures such as preferential 
market access or special and dif ferential treatment (SDT) provisions in WTO rules. If not well 
managed, th ese risks graduating LDCs falling back to the LDC category if their progress is not 
sustained. There is therefore a need for the WTO to develop a mechanism that will support the 
smoo th transition of graduating LDCs. We see this as one of the critical aspects of the development 
mandate and is critical to deliver on the UN General Assembly Resolution 59/209 of 2004. S outh 
Africa has been a strong supporter of LDC integration into the mu ltilateral trading system and 
supports all efforts to increase their share in global trade. We note that although graduation from 
the status of LDC marks an important milestone in the development path of each LDC, the phasing -
out of support measures associ ated with LDC status could present challenges for graduating LDCs 
in their efforts to continue to integrate into the global economy. As the submission highlights, LDCs 
suffer from various capacity constraints and economic vulnerabilities. Strengthening cap acity to 
trade therefore remains a priority for graduating LDCs and the design of any support provided to 
LDCs should be reflective of the trade priorities and challenges LDCs have identified. It is thus 
essential for LDCs and the international community t o ensure greater cooperation to better support 
every LDC with a view to achieving a sustainable graduation. South Africa supports a comprehensive 
and smooth transition for graduating LDCs under the WTO system and we are of the view that 
appropriate support  measures will enable graduating LDCs to develop strategies and provide a 
predictable and reliable environment. We urge all Members to engage constructively on this issue 
with the aim of providing a better chance for graduating LDCs to integrate into the m ultilateral 
trading system.  
7.28.   The representative of Senegal  delivered the following statement:  
7.29.   I do not want to go back and repeat what previous speakers have said, especially the 
statement from Nepal, and we would like to align ourselves with the statement  made by Djibouti on 
behalf of the LDC Group. The WTO should not lag behind with respect to a smooth transition for 
LDCs who are graduating. As noted in the proposal, the UN has already recommended that WTO 
Members give a transition period to LDCs, so they  can continue to benefit from the existing 
flexibilities and some agreements. That should not be difficult, and this recommendation is also in 
relevant resolutions from 2004 and 2012, therefore, we should take that into account. Efforts were 
made and were made at MC12 to reach a decision on this matter . Despite the efforts that you made, 
through  a number of meetings with different Members, that the Director -General also held 
consultations with several Members on this matter, unfortunately, we found that no decision was 
reached. In my opinion, as stated by South Africa, there should be a mechanism  to allow LDCs to 
have a smooth transition.  
7.30.   The representative of Vanuatu , on behalf of the Pacific Group , delivered the following 
statement:  
7.31.   The Pacific Group thanks the LDC Group for keeping this proposal alive to support the smooth 
transition of graduat ing LDC Members.  We also support the ACP Statement.  Apart from the loss of 
trade preferences and aid for trade support after graduation, LDCs face ongoing challenges from 
climate change as well as from frequent and severe natural disasters that undermine t heir 
development efforts. Pacific LDCs in particular, face high trade costs associated with our remoteness 
and smallness.  Graduation will not remove these structural challenges.  
7.32.   The Pacific Group therefore reiterates our support for this proposal as it wi ll provide greater 
certainty and predictability for LDC Members through the continuation of market access and aid for 
trade support for 12 years after graduation. These are necessary to facilitate their smooth and 
successful transition and to better integr ate them into the multilateral trading system. We therefore 
encourage Members to engage on this proposal. Thank you.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  7.33.   The representative of Nigeria  delivered the following statement:  
7.34.   We align ourselves with this statement delivered on behalf of the ACP and the African Groups. 
We thank Djibouti and the LDC Group for their proposal. Nigeria wishes to reaffirm its support for 
the proposal, because we believe graduating LDCs require support during the transition period to 
foster stability. Graduating LDCs should  have to LDCs specific flexibilities within an agreed timeframe 
during the transition period. We also wish to call on all Members granting unilateral trade preferences 
to consider extending the benefits to graduating LDCs over a reasonable period of time. And we 
hope we will move forward with the proposal towards achieving the concrete outcome on this.  
7.35.   The representative of the United Kingdom  delivered the following statement:  
7.36.   We continue very much to celebrate LDC Graduation; it is a cause for celebration when a 
country graduates from that status. But we do recogni ze – like others here – the challenges that 
LDCs face when graduating. And that's one reason why we will continue to provide a transition period 
and even more generous preferences on the eagerly a waited Developing Countries Trading Scheme, 
which we will be unveiling with great fanfare later this year. And we share some of the frustration 
in this room in thinking that we probably could have achieved an outcome on this issue at MC12. 
We, for our part , tried to play our bit to try and establish common ground with other delegations. 
And we thank the Republic of Korea, amongst others, for their efforts to do the same. So, we thank 
the LDC Group for their flexibility, and for approaching these discussions  in a spirit of compromise. 
Flexibility, openness, proactive compromises are going to be required from all of us if we are to 
reach a successful conclusion to this issue. We remain committed to working with other delegations 
here to help LDCs, and LDC Grad uates, to integrate further into the multilateral trading system, and 
to enjoy the fruits of economic growth that flow from that.  
7.37.   The representative of Norway  delivered the following statement:  
7.38.   Support for LDCs is a high priority for Norway – through bila teral as well as multilateral 
channels. Like others, we celebrate the fact that a number of LDCs are in line for graduation. We 
acknowledge that Members graduating from the LDC category will continue to face challenges, and 
we welcome a discussion of how we best can assist graduated LDCs in addressing and overcoming 
these challenges. This is in fact acknowledged and highlighted by our ministers in p ara 5 of the 
Outcome Document.  
7.39.   Turning to the specific elements under discussion, it is important to remember that 
preferential trade arrangements are Member -specific, unilateral concessions. This fact must be taken 
into consideration, as one size does no t fit all. We may, however, inspire and learn from each other. 
In the case of our own GSP system, transition periods between the various income categories are 
already built into the system.  Regarding access to technical assistance and capacity building aft er 
graduation, we are open to discuss practical arrangements within the framework of relevant support 
facilities. In fact, some facilities, such as the STDF and EIF, already have some transitional 
arrangements in place.  
7.40.   The representative of the European Union  delivered the following statement:  
7.41.   The European Union is mindful of the challenges that Least Developed Countries face in 
integrating in the global trading system. At MC12, Members acknowledged the particular challenges 
that LDC graduation presents. The EU has heard and engaged with LDC concerns throughout the 
run-up to MC12.  The European Union will continue to support constructive initiatives to better 
integrate members with capacity constraints into the multilateral trading system, and to take into 
account in that connection the specific situation of graduating LDCs. We especially encourage 
discussions based on analysis that shows where specific difficulties exist.  
7.42.   The representative of the United States  delivered the following statement:  
7.43.   The United States, along with many other preference granting Members, worked hard prior 
to MC12 to craft a potential outcome that we believed addressed a priority issue for graduating LDCs 
– one that would have recognized the situation of graduating LDCs and encourag ed Members to 
consider a transition period for these countries within their domestic preferential tariff programs.  
That approach was rejected by the LDCs.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  7.44.   We have indicated that we are willing to consider flexibility in future negotiations for 
developing c ountries that have recently graduated from LDC status, as long as other similarly -
situated developing countries have access to the same tailored flexibilities.  In addition, we have 
signalled an openness to encouraging Members to incorporate transitional pe riods in their goods 
preference programs.  However, the LDCs have indicated they are not interested in either of those 
elements.  Given the current impasse, we believe the best course of action would be to return this 
to the technical level for further discu ssion.  
7.45.   The representative of India delivered the following statement:  
7.46.   It was disappointing that outcome on LDCs related matters were not achieved during the 12th 
Ministerial Conference. While we all acknowledge that the LDCs have been disproportionately 
affected by the pandemic and most recently by the food crisis. Therefore, their concerns need to be 
heard and addressed by this organisation. India thanks Djibouti  as coordinator of LDCs and 
Bangladesh as the focal point on this subject for the LDC Group for bringing this agenda back on the 
table for us to deliberate and deliver. India remains committed to working towards meaningful 
integration of the LDCs in the mu ltilateral trading system as a trusted and reliable partner. I reiterate 
India's unequivocal support for a reasonable period of transition and urge Members to engage 
constructively and work expeditiously towards an outcome.  
7.47.   The representative of Pakistan  delivered the following statement:  
7.48.   We wish to thank the LDC Group for the presentation of its proposal today. The Preamble of 
the Marrakesh Agreement reminds us of the recognition of the need for a positive efforts designed 
to ensure that developing countries, and especially the least developed among them, secure a share 
in the growth in international trade commensurate with the needs of their economic development.  
Graduating is already a big step. Going forward will require a n adequate transitioning mechanism 
for such countries. We therefore recogni ze this need for a smooth transition.  We wish to call on 
Members to consider this proposal positively and to engage constructively to support this smooth 
transition for the LDCs.   
7.49.   The representative of Indonesia  delivered the following statement:  
7.50.   Indonesia would like to thank the LDC Group for their submission on smooth transition in 
favour of countries graduating from the LDC category. Indonesia recognizes the trade and 
development challenges faced by Least -Developed Countries. Indonesia shares the view that Special 
and Differential Treatment in trade rules is one of the key tools to address the trade -related 
challenges, in particular for LDC Members. With that in mind, the WTO shoul d take its role in creating 
rules that is favourable to all Members by extending a period of time where Graduating LDCs could 
benefit from a safety net period under S&DT. This grace period would provide a favourable condition 
for LDC to ensure full integra tion into the global trading system despite the challenges. Therefore, 
Indonesia extends its support on the proposal by the LDC Group in document WT/GC/W/807 and 
calls all Members to positively consider this proposal.  
7.51.   The representative of China  delivered  the following statement:  
7.52.   The smooth transition for graduating LDCs is one of the priority issues of the LDC Group. The  
proposal has taken Members' views into account and shown positive engagement of the LDC Group. 
It is regretted that no substantial progr ess was made at MC12. China will continue to grant 
preferential treatment to graduated LDCs and support their smooth transition. As for the 
engagement post -MC12, we call for constructive discussions and a proactive engagement from all 
Members. It is essent ial to ensure greater cooperation and better support every LDC with a view to 
achieving a sustainable graduation. China will remain committed to help LDCs fully participate in the 
global recovery and minimize the negative impact of the COVID -19 pandemic, c limate change and 
the continuing energy and food crisis.  
7.53.   The representative of Australia  delivered the following statement:  
7.54.   Successful integration of LDCs into the multilateral trading system is a key priority for 
Australia. Australia 's system of unilateral trade preferences already extends tariff concessions to 
LDCs for more than 12 years beyond graduation. We acknowledge Members should have flexibility WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  to tailor extensions to need, in consultation with the graduating country. Australi a welcomes the 
LDC Group 's work and efforts to identify convergence in this area. To be most effective, any 
arrangements should be tailored to the diverse economic circumstances and needs of each 
graduating country. Australia supports the approach outlined  in the UNGA resolutions noted in Chad 's 
covering communication to WT/GC/ W/807 and WT/GC/ W/829 - LDC-specific special and differential 
treatment should be extended for a period appropriate to the development situation of the 
graduating country. W829 better  reflects this approach. It also reflects progress made in discussions 
so far. We look forward to further engagement with the LDC Group on this matter, and recommend 
that continuing the useful collaboration and compromise that led us to WT/GC/ W/829 would b e a 
good and constructive basis for discussions to move forward.  
7.55.   The representative of Japan  delivered the following statement:  
7.56.   Japan recognizes the importance of providing special measures for developing countries and 
LDCs to engage in the multilateral tr ading system in smooth transition, and has been offering special 
preferential treatment for LDCs and a generalized system of preferences to a wider range of 
developing countries and continues to do so.  Regarding the proposal by the LDC Group, preferential 
tariff systems and the period for which they are implemented normally reflect the situation of a 
providing country and its beneficiaries. We should therefore carefully consider the issue of pre -
setting a standard for the extension period. Therefore, we bel ieve that technical -level discussions at 
an appropriate place such as LDC  Sub-Committee are necessary to advance work on this issue based 
on evidence needs.  Japan will continue to constructively engage in this discussion.  
7.57.   The representative of Brazil  delivered the following statement:  
7.58.   We would like to thank the LDC Group for their proposal.  Brazil has consistently engaged in 
discussions aiming at strengthening the multilateral trading system and ensuring that it remains 
beneficial to all its Members. We att ach great importance to Special and Differential Treatment to 
LDCs Members, which provides them the needed flexibility to fully integrate into the multilateral 
trading system.  In this sense, we welcome discussions on the issue of graduation. Graduation is a 
milestone in LDCs path for development  and graduating countries must receive the adequate support 
to ensure that they will not experience setbacks that may force them back into the LDC category.  
We reiterate our willingness to work together  with the LDC Group to advance on the issue and urge 
all Members to constructively engage in the discussions.  
7.59.   The representative of Botswana  delivered the following statement:  
7.60.   My delegation wishes to join others in supporting the proposal by the LDC Group  contained in 
document WT/GC/W/807. We equally regret that so little progress was made during MC12 on this 
issue. As a former LDC that graduated to middle -income status some years ago, the fact that we 
continue to experience some serious challenges, especi ally following COVID -19, shows that this is a 
matter that deserves the empathy and collective intervention by all WTO Members. So let me end 
by expressing the hope that this is something on which we can have a good multilateral response 
going forward as WT O Members.  
7.61.   The representative of Egypt  delivered the following statement:  
7.62.   Egypt supports the demand of the least -developed countries for a smooth transition after 
their graduation. We are ready to engage on the matter with the aim of finding appropriate 
modalities that would achieve this legitimate cause taking into account elements of the proposal 
submitted in this regard by the beneficiary countries and also in light of the elements of Djibouti 's 
intervention in this regard on behalf of the LDC Group.  
7.63.   The representative of Bangladesh  delivered the following statement:  
7.64.   Bangladesh thanks all delegations who took the floor and extended their support to this 
submission. As we hear from one delegation, Bangladesh wants to clarify that the LDC group never 
reject ed any proposal that we could have accommodated at least. We did not probably get enough 
time to hear the concerns from those delegations who considered our proposal problematic. 
Nevertheless, we want to renew our spirit and begin our work  - as the DG ofte n says that there is 
always life after the MC12. As we have pointed out earlier, we want to build on the paragraph 5 of WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  the MC12 Outcome Document. We seek support from all Members to have a positive outcome in this 
regard.  
7.65.   The representative of Canada  provided the following statement:  
7.66.   Canada thanks the LDC Group for its interim proposal on a smooth transition to 
graduation.  We are broadly supportive of efforts to smooth the transition for graduating LDCs. 
Concerning both the original and interim proposals,  we have some questions about the length of the 
transition period and about the emphasis on ensuring measures are applied automatically, equally 
and unconditionally. For example, on the transition period, we would like to better understand the 
rationale be hind the choice of 6, 9 and 12 years, including how this relates to the UN -led process for 
graduation.   
7.67.   The Director -General  delivered the following statement:  
7.68.   Just to comment, first, to say thanks to all delegations for a very constructive spirit and 
approach towards the LDCs and the LDC issue. This is nothing new, the issue of LDC graduation and 
an appropriate transition period to accommodate them  - and the fact that they may indeed slip back 
into LDC status if appropriate care is not taken. That is reall y being kind of a standard in most 
organizations, and I think  that at the WTO, we should also not be left behind on this. I am very 
happy that Bangladesh finally referred to paragraph 5 of the Outcome Document, which I think was 
a very solid foundation on which to push the issue forward. It was indeed disappointing that we did 
not come to a conclusion on the issue at MC12 . That would have been ideal, but a foundation was 
laid on which the LDC Group could build  - and sometimes I felt we were actually steppin g backwards 
from where we were instead of moving forward. So, I would urge the LDC Group to build on 
paragraph 5 to move the matter. I am very happy to hear both from the coordinator of the Group 
and Bangladesh the constructive spirit that I sense in this room, so that we can really get an outcome 
on this issue. I think it is within reach and we should go for it.  
7.69.   The Chair recalled that this matter had been discussed and consulted on in the lead -up to 
MC12. A common understanding and consensus on this matter had not been reached because 
positions remained divergent. He encouraged the LDC Group and Members to interact with e ach 
other with a view to narrow down the differences.  
7.70.   The General Council took note  of the statements  made . 
8  PROPOSED GENERAL COUNCIL DECISION ON PROCEDURES TO ENHANCE 
TRANSPARENCY AND IMPROVE COMPLIANCE WITH NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS 
UNDER WTO AGREEMENTS – ALBANIA; ARGENTINA; AUSTRALIA; BRAZIL; CANADA; 
CHILE; COLOMBIA; COSTA RICA; THE EUROPEAN UNION; ICELAND; ISRAEL; JAPAN; 
REPUBLIC OF KOREA; LIECHTENSTEIN; MEXICO; REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA; MONTENEGRO; 
NEW ZEALAND; NORTH MACEDONIA; NORWAY; PARAGUAY; PERU; THE PH ILIPPINES; 
SINGAPORE; SWITZERLAND; THE SEPARATE CUSTOMS TERRITORY OF TAIWAN, PENGHU, 
KINMEN AND MATSU; THAILAND; UNITED KINGDOM; THE UNITED STATES; AND URUGUAY 
(JOB/GC/204/REV.11 – JOB/CTG/14/REV.11)  
8.1.  The representative of the United States  delivered the fo llowing statement:  
8.2.  As Members are aware, the co -sponsors have actively sought input from all Members through 
intensive outreach efforts, particularly over the last two years.  Following the last General Council 
meeting, the co -sponsors re -engaged with Members – especially developing and LDC Members – 
through a series of breakfast sessions, bilateral discussions, and meetings in various configurations 
to address their outstanding concerns.  
8.3.  This revision includes adjustments aimed at resolving those speci fic concerns.  Of note, the text 
now provides – in a number of places – greater recognition of the challenges and capacity constraints 
that developing and LDC Members experience with notifications.  There are acknowledgements of 
these challenges in the chape au and in paragraphs 3 and 7.  Other adjustments directly reflect 
developing and LDC Members ' priorities as shared during consultations, such as using digital tools 
to make accessing information about notifications easier.  In addition, we have removed langu age in 
paragraph 8 encouraging Members with notification delays to provide status updates every six WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  months.  The focus of this paragraph is now on more -targeted delivery of notification -related 
technical assistance and capacity building, which is made possi ble when Members share information 
on their specific notification challenges.  The co -sponsors also welcome Albania as a new co -sponsor, 
bringing the total number of co -sponsors to over one -third of the WTO membership.  
8.4.  I had the pleasure of working on this proposal personally while in Washington, DC over the 
course of its development. The proposal has evolved significantly since it was first introduced four 
years ago.  It is a sincere effort to advance practical, technical work aimed at improving Member 
notification capabilities in CTG bodies. It comprises a bottom -up, inclusive, Member -driven process, 
led by a Working Group open to all Members, which will identify and recommend improvements in 
notification processes and procedures that benefit the entire memb ership.  The first step is to launch 
the Working Group by approving the proposal today  and I hope we do so . 
8.5.  The representative of China  delivered the following statement:  
8.6.  Transparency is crucial for the proper functioning of the WTO. China thanks the US and  other 
co-sponsors for circulating this revised proposal with regard to transparency and notification. We 
welcome co -sponsors' effort to address Members' concerns, including recognizing capacity 
constraints and particular technical assistance needs of deve loping Members and LDCs, removing all 
administrative measures and accountant notifications. We also would like to thank the US and 
Canada for their bilateral engagement with us and in responding our questions on the revised 
proposal. However, China still h as some concerns on the revised proposal, for example as there is 
no definition on "complete notification", the word "complete" in paragraph 2 lead to different 
interpretations and assessment on Members' implementation of notifications. Also, on paragraph 3 
(e) regarding Secretariat's report on updating the list of notification obligations and compliance. We 
wonder here how the Secretariat will report compliance, what criteria the Secretariat is expected to 
use for assessing the compliance. China is looking  forward to further constructive dialogues with co -
sponsors on this proposal.  
8.7.  The representative of Ukraine  delivered the following statement:  
8.8.  Ukraine continues to strongly support WTO efforts to ensure transparency of Members ' trade 
policies and expresses its appreciation to all co -sponsors of the document for their efforts to improve 
transparency practice and capacity to implement notification obligations. The initiative reflects 
Ukraine's confidence that a clear understanding  of WTO Members ' policies and practices is possible 
only if the notification procedures are fully respected.  
8.9.  Along with the co -sponsors of the initiative, Ukraine recognizes the essential role of 
transparency in the implementation of the WTO Agreements and  considers notifications as an 
important and indispensable instrument to assess compliance with substantive WTO commitments.  
We also see transparency and notifications as key tools that enable us to rebuild trust and strengthen 
cooperation among the member ship. Ukraine fully supports the concept of the document that offers 
opportunities for each Member to improve its ability to comply with notification obligations within 
the Member's existing commitments under the WTO Agreements.  
8.10.   It is also important that t he document creates new opportunities, including technical 
assistance and capacity building, for developing countries that experience human resource and 
institutional capacity constraints. We are convinced that Members' efforts to enhance compliance 
with n otification obligations will contribute to positive results in strengthening and enhancing the 
rules-based multilateral trading system.  Despite all the horror of the war unleashed by Russia, 
Ukraine continues to fulfill its notification obligations.  In the  light of the above and to demonstrate 
Ukraine 's commitment to the fundamental WTO rules we would like to take this opportunity to 
express Ukraine 's willingness to join the document.  We also encourage other Members to support 
this initiative.  
8.11.   The represent ative of Cameroon , on behalf of the African Group , delivered the following 
statement:  
8.12.   The African Group is still consulting on the technical aspects of the submission. We would like 
to share some of our views today, which we have elaborated on in the past . We thank the proponents WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  for addressing some of our concerns, however we believe that there are still areas in the text that 
have not yet been addressed in this eleventh revision.  
8.13.   We have consistently stated that the objectives for this proposal should add value to the 
bigger challenge relating to the effective implementation of existing obligations, instead of 
establishing new rules that increase the burden of compliance, which dis proportionately affects the 
developing countries including least developed countries. The Group needs more time to reflect on 
how this horizontal approach as suggested in the draft decision would add value to the important 
work which has been carried out a nd is ongoing within the committees. We are of the view that the 
proposals for changes in the TPR report should actually take place in the TPRM appraisal process 
which starts in the second half of 2022.  
8.14.   The representative of Barbados , on behalf of CARICOM , delivered the following statement:  
8.15.   The CARICOM Group continues to be of the view that transparency and notifications are a 
crucial element of the proper functioning of the WTO and the rights and obligations of Members. It 
is in this vein that our Group thank the cosponsors for the eleventh iteration of their proposed 
decision on procedures to enhance transparency and improve compliance with notification 
requirements under WTO Agreements.  
8.16.   We thank the co -sponsors for their active engagement with our Grou p. We can see that some 
of our comments have been taken on board.  Our Members, both here in Geneva and in capital , are 
examining this version of the document and we will revert with more fulsome comments in due 
course.  Indicatively, we continue note that t he proposal states that any Member can avail of technical 
assistance and capacity building.  We would request the cosponsors to advise us of the type of 
technical assistance and capacity building that is envisaged for countries beyond developing and 
least d eveloped countries. On this point, we reiterate that for many developing and least developed 
countries our challenges go beyond the availability of technical assistance and capacity building. 
Technical assistance will not remedy inherent structural challen ge. We would therefore be concerned 
if requests for technical assistance are examined in isolation from our realities on the ground.  
8.17.   We are aware that the area specific notification obligations already feature in the Trade Policy 
Review process, and that Members are systematically reminded of their country -specific notification 
obligations by the Secretariat.  It would be useful if cosponsors could elaborate on what the proposal 
for the inclusion of a specific, standardised focus on the Member 's compliance with its notification 
obligations would look like and how this could potentially enhance transparency and improve 
compliance with notification requirements under WTO Agreements.  The CARICOM Group looks 
forward to the responses to these questions and remain s ready and willing to continue our 
engagement with co -sponsors and other members on the issue of enhancing transparency and 
monitoring within the WTO.  
8.18.   The representative of Sri Lanka  delivered the following statement:  
8.19.   My delegation would like to thank t he co -sponsors for their proposal and wish to offer a few 
initial comments.  My delegation notes that the revised text has addressed some concerns of the 
developing countries. However, the text cannot be adopted in its current formulation due to the 
concern s regarding the scope of the decision and also regarding its applicability.  There are several 
types of notifications, such as regular notifications, one -time only or ad hoc  notifications. Most 
notification requirements are ad hoc  in nature because such notifications are to be made only  when 
a certain action is taken by a concerned Member , for example SPS or TBT notifications.  This proposal 
does not make any distinction between these notification  types . My delegation requests the 
proponents to clarify as to which type of notifications that this proposal would cover.  
8.20.   The coverage  of the  proposal is selective , since it  does not refer to  the GATS or TRIPS 
Agreement. My delegation would like to know whether there are any specific reason s for not covering 
GATS and TRIP S. My delegation has  concerns  with the terms "notification requirements " and 
"notification obligations ". The proponents should clarify whether they a re being used 
interchangeably, or whether they have different meanings . 
8.21.   There are some concerns relating to institutional arrangements as well. It is observed that 
the decision is to revive the Working Group on Notification Obligations and Procedures . We know WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  that m any Agreements are overseen by the CTG. Therefore, it would be  more logical to have a 
discussion at the CTG  instead of reviving the  Working Group . There has been a lot of existing work 
on transparency in the various committees over the years and Members require time to reflect on 
how a horizontal approach as suggested in this decision would add value to the important work 
which has been carried out and is ongoing within the committees.  
8.22.   The relation of this proposal to the proposals on transparency in Agriculture need to be 
clarified . Otherwise, there will be a  duplication of work between the proposed reestablishment of the 
Working Group and the Committee on Agriculture.  On the Trade Policy Review, we believe it is more 
relevant to discuss this within the context of the TPRM Appraisal.  Regarding "Reaffirming exi sting 
commitments '', my delegation would like to mention that "Timeliness " of notifications is more difficult 
to establish for ad hoc notifications.  
8.23.   The proponents should clarify whether the recommitment applies to notifications due in the 
future or to all  past notifications which have not been submitted.  My delegation would like  to get 
more clarity from the co -sponsors on the above key concerns and is ready to engage constructively 
in further discussions . 
8.24.   The representative of  the Kingdom of  Saudi Arabia  delivered the following statement:  
8.25.   I would like to thank the proponents of the recent communication dated 14 July 2022, on the 
procedures to enhance transparency and improve compliance with notification requirements under 
WTO agreements. This propo sal is still under internal assessment in the capital.   The Kingdom of 
Saudi Arabia is a supporter to the WTO functioning reforms and believes that transparency is a 
fundamental principle of the multilateral trading system. Improving transparency will enhan ce 
business environment and making it more predictable.  
8.26.    Having said that, I would like to stress that discussions on any pillar of WTO reform should 
take into account the complementarity, the balance with the other pillars and the progress in their 
discus sions. It is difficult to advance in one area while others are lagging behind. Any outcome on 
the WTO necessary reform should be balanced, inclusive and multilateral.  
8.27.   The representative of Senegal  delivered the following statement:  
8.28.   The delegation of Sene gal aligns itself with the statements made by Cameroon and Kenya on 
behalf of the African and ACP groups.  Our delegation thanks the co -sponsors of the revised draft 
decision and wishes to make the following preliminary remarks while awaiting comments from our 
capital . Given that the scope of the draft decision is limited to goods -related notification obligations, 
it would be a good idea to consider adding the following words to the title: "on trade in goods".  
Proposal concerning the definition of the term " notification " (paragraph 1) . "For the purpose of this 
decision, 'notification' means the information provided by Members under their transparency 
obligations in relation to each of the following WTO Agreements, Understandings and Decisions . 
"Proposal to ad d a paragraph under the "Technical assistance and capacity building" heading of the 
draft decision. The paragraph to be added is:  "Members are encouraged to show flexibility and 
exercise restraint when reviewing notifications submitted by LDCs."  
8.29.   The repres entative of Brunei Darussalam  delivered the following statement:  
8.30.   Brunei Darussalam welcomes the latest draft Rev.11 and appreciates the proponents' efforts 
to enhance transparency and improve compliance with notification requirements under WTO 
Agreements. We reiterate that we share the view of the importance of transpar ency as a vital 
element in the basic functioning of a rules -based organization such as the WTO. Equally important 
is the need to ensure that the inclusive and effective participation of all Members and that this is an 
important aspect of transparency in ad dition to notifications. As such, considerations should be made 
to allow sufficient time and/in position of assistance for Members to address the root cause of delays 
to establish/start submissions notifications. In this regard, we will continue to engage proponents 
and other Members on this agenda item to address any remaining issues including with regard to 
China's questions.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  8.31.   The representative of Vanuatu , on behalf of the Pacific Group , delivered the following 
statement:  
8.32.   The Pacific Group thanks the US  and the co-sponsors for this latest revision of the proposal 
on enhanced transparency and we have referred this to our capitals for guidance.  We recogni ze that 
transparency is one of the fundamental principles of the WTO and adhering to transparency enables 
us to keep abreast of trade policies and measures of all WTO Members. While we are trying to do 
our best, as small Members, we face significant and genuine challenges in fulfilling notifications 
especially those of technical nature.  That said, we note that the proposal contains some positive 
elements such as the work under the Working Group in particular, in identifying improvements such 
as simplified notification formats, greater use of electronic notification systems, updating reporti ng 
requirements, use of new digital tools to help compliance with notification, establishing automatic 
reminder emails to Members before notification is due as well as technical assistance and capacity 
building. A review of the Decision 's implementation af ter three years of its adoption will also allow 
Members to assess its effectiveness and how it adds value to the existing notification mechanisms 
and immense work already embarked on by most of the Committees in achieving enhanced 
transparency within the m ultilateral trading system. Perhaps, in relation to this latter point, we seek 
a clarification on how the role of the horizontal mechanism in the form of the Work Group will not 
duplicate the work of the existing Committees that deal with notification.  Nevertheless, we remain 
open to discussing this proposal.  
8.33.   The representative of South Africa  delivered the following statement:  
8.34.   Chairperson, South Africa thanks the US and the cosponsors for the revised Proposed Decision 
on Procedures to Enhance Transparenc y and Improve Compliance with Notification Requirements 
Under WTO Agreements contained in JOB/GC/204/Rev.11. We align ourselves with the statements 
delivered by the Africa Group and the ACP and, recall our previous statements on this topic and 
proposal. We  further note and acknowledge the attempts of the co -sponsors to address some of the 
concerns we expressed regarding the proposed General Council Decision. South Africa has on 
previous occasions consistently expressed its view that one of the important pil lars of the multilateral 
trading system is indeed Transparency. Our view and perspective on transparency is elaborately 
captured in the submission we cosponsored titled "An Inclusive Approach to Transparency and 
Notification Requirements in the WTO" found in document JOB/GC/218/Rev.2. Any attempts to 
improve transparency within the WTO would need to be comprehensive, and also be sensitive to and 
deliberately address the genuine capacity constraints of developing countries, including LDCs. There 
are broad ar eas in the proposal that still require our further consideration and clarification. These 
include, among others, the scope of the draft Decision, the actual nature of the measures or types 
of notifications that this decision speaks to, the seeming overlap and duplication of work that is 
already being conducted in various committees, as well as the legal standing of the Working Group 
on Notification Obligations and Procedures and its actual terms of reference. The implications of the 
horizontal approach to t ransparency envisioned in the proposal requires our further and careful 
consideration before we can agree to its adoption.  
8.35.   South Africa remains concerned that the Decision goes beyond a cosmetic improvement, but 
rather creates a new set of far -reaching ob ligations under Agreements and Understandings listed in 
paragraph 1 of the proposal, whilst also introducing fundamentally new processes and structural 
changes in the way various WTO Committees would conduct their work. How, for instance, would 
the Working  Group relate to the Committee on Trade in Goods as the primary body with competence 
over notification obligations? We would require clarity in this regard. We also note that the coverage 
of Agreements in the proposed draft Decision is still confined to th ose in Annex 1A. We once more 
seek clarity on the rationale for this selective approach, particularly considering the shortcomings in 
other covered Agreements that we also highlighted in document JOB/GC/218/Rev.2. We also 
observe that the revised proposal still calls for the use of Members ' TPR reports as a basis for the 
enforcement of specific obligations or the imposition of new policy commitments on Members. It 
would be more prudent, in our view that the appraisal process of the TPRM be conducted as a 
bottom-up process, without a -priori outcomes. We look forward to engaging with the proponents to 
further understand the revisions introduced today on their proposal and to discuss our areas of 
concern.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  8.36.   The representative of Nigeria  delivered the following s tatement:  
8.37.   At the outset, Nigeria wishes to associate itself with the statement delivered by Cameroon on 
behalf of the African Group.  Though this proposal is currently being reviewed in our Capital, we wish 
to seek some clarifications from proponents regar ding the exclusion of some notification obligations 
under WTO Agreements such as the GATS Article III:3 from the scope of the draft decision. Nigeria 
has interest in improving GATS Mode 4 Transparency and we are wondering why this was excluded 
from the sco pe of the draft decision. Response to these questions will enable us take informed 
decision on this issue.  
8.38.   The representative of Nicaragua  delivered the following statement:  
8.39.   Turning to the agenda item under discussion, I would like to highlight the impor tance of 
transparency as a fundamental pillar of the WTO Agreements, which is why we welcome the proposal 
contained in document JOB/GC/204/REV.11.  We welcome the suggestion to implement further 
activities to promote capacity -building for the benefit of dev eloping and least -developed Members; 
we consider that these activities would help in part to facilitate the fulfilment of commitments.  
However, Nicaragua considers that this proposal adds new commitments to the long list of 
notifications that Members are r equired to submit each year, that is, it goes beyond what is provided 
for in the WTO Agreements. We therefore state, as developing Members, that we are not in a position 
to take on additional commitments to those already established.  We emphasize that outs tanding 
notifications often do not stem from a lack of knowledge of Members' processes. Sometimes the 
problem goes beyond that. For example, the necessary coordination between different national 
authorities in preparing these notifications can be affected by a lack of technical and financial 
resources, which is exacerbated by coercive unilateral measures implemented by developed 
economies against various Members of this house.  We therefore urge Members to reconsider their 
proposal, taking into account the p articular situations of developing and least -developed Members. 
Thank you.  
8.40.   The representative of India delivered the following statement:  
8.41.   India would like to thank the co -sponsors for bringing this agenda item to the General Council 
and particularly thanks to the delegation of the United States for their engagement on this subject. 
We acknowledge that the current draft takes into account a l ot of our feedback that had been given 
in the previous General Council meetings. We also note that this proposal builds on the Working 
Group on notification obligations and procedures, the last report of which was presented in 1996 in 
the document G/NOP/W/ 16/Rev.1, the Working Group on Notification Obligations and Procedures 
had a specific mandate, which this September 1996 document captured in paragraph 04.  
8.42.   "At its first meeting the Working Group noted that it was being called upon to thoroughly 
review al l existing notification obligations in the 12 Agreements listed in Annex 1A of the WTO 
Agreement, as well as the GATT 1994, including the six Understandings interpreting certain articles 
thereof. The mandate did not include the Agreements on Services, TRIP s, DSU, TPRM or the 
Plurilateral Trade Agreements. " By the time Working Group completed its work it did reflect on the 
mandate and the need to take a holistic look at the WTO notification obligations and procedures. 
Even then, a need was felt not to stay l imited to the goods vertical of GATT. Paragraph 81 of the 
Secretariat report on this Working Group also reflected this view. "However, the Group also saw 
benefit in conducting periodic reviews of the operation of the entire notification process from a more  
detached and global perspective under a mandate along the lines of the present Working Group. It 
was considered that this could be achieved: (a) through the extension of the mandate of the current 
Working Group; (b) through the establishment by the CTG of  a new working group, at an appropriate 
time, to address Annex 1A agreements; or (c) through the establishment, at an appropriate time, 
of a new working group under the General Council to address notification obligations in Annexes 1A, 
B and C. "  
8.43.   At the ti me of the original conception there was a recognition that any discussion on 
transparency should not be limited only to the Annex 1 A Agreements. Notwithstanding the enabling 
provision now given by the co -sponsors in paragraph 11 in the present proposal re garding future 
work, introduced after our comments, my delegation will still prefer a proposal that is comprehensive 
and covers all WTO agreements, including TRIPS Agreement and GATS. Chair, we would request 
that let us strive not just for better complianc e, but also for better efficiency, agility and to reimagine WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  a WTO that is in tune with the needs of a rapidly changing world, particularly for the developing 
world. I would request co -sponsors to take note of para 6 of the document WT/ GC/W/ 778 Rev 5, 
which is coming up as agenda 9 in today's GC meeting, and it has very specific and concrete 
suggestions on transparency pillar. Our worry on the present proposal is that the recommendations 
mentioned should not be giving a foot in the door or the pathway for new obligations. We request 
that the recommendations whatever has been envisaged in the present proposal should be confined 
to the existing notification obligations. Similarly, the mention of reviewing document G/L/223 and 
therefore recommending enhancemen ts to reporting should not create a pathway for new 
obligations. The para 10 of the proposal which allows the General Council to direct the Working 
Group to develop further recommendations, again should not create a pathway for new obligations.  
8.44.   India has held a view that in the area of transparency, fulfilment of existing obligations is 
necessary without further adding the onerous obligations in the name of transparency in view of the 
limited resources. Further, members ' notification must not be undermined , in the name of adding to 
transparency by other members or the Secretariat. And in this aspect, there is a popular belief back 
home, and I am sure it may be there in other countries also, that if you don't submit a notification, 
one question will be asked  "When are you submitting that notification? " In case you submit that 
notification after going through the entire process of collecting data and coordinating with multiple 
agencies, then 100 questions will be asked for the sake of asking question. So back home, the 
agencies have this decision to make. That are you fine with one question, or are you willing to take 
up 100 questions? So therefore, I would again request that this tendency of asking further questions, 
on the notification is coming in the way of  improving compliance and countries who are even willing 
to provide notifications in a time bound manner in a resource constrained environment feel that it is 
very difficult to handle the situation with 100 subsequent questions and here I am referring to s ome 
of the Committee 's meetings, which have been conducted in the recent past, where a particular 
country was targeted.  
8.45.   The representative of Bangladesh  delivered the following statement:  
8.46.   The delegation of Bangladesh aligns with the statement delivered b y Djibouti on behalf of the 
LDCs. Bangladesh thanks the US and other co -sponsors for the presentation of the JOB/GC/204 with 
the 11th revision.  My delegation appreciates  the changes in the document comparing to the previous 
versions and welcomes the contin uous and constructive engagement of the cosponsors with other 
delegations. Bangladesh has always reiterated that transparency is an essential pillar, however, only 
a few notification templates or notification rituals cannot assure transparency.  
8.47.   Bangladesh  thanks the cosponsors for recognizing the difficulties and capacity constraints of 
some Members to comply the notification requirements. To address the difficulties, the draft has 
proposed consultation with relevant committees and other working groups and  bodies to identify 
both systemic and specific improvements such as introducing simplified notification formats, 
updating reporting requirements, holding additional trainings and workshops at the committee level 
and using new digital tools that can help Me mbers improve compliance with notification obligations. 
Bangladesh welcomes these honest intents. However, my delegation also reiterates that technical 
assistance programmes, including the workshops and ad -hoc trainings, still cannot make up for the 
limita tions in human resources in many of our capitals and in Geneva. We need more dialogues on 
these issues.  
8.48.   Staying within our ability to contribute, we welcome any constructive proposal that will 
improve the works in the WTO. As LDCs we cannot undertake any commitment that goes beyond 
our administrative and institutional capabilities. This is also assured by article 11.2 of the Marrakesh 
Agreement. In my delegation 's view the draft proposal needs further discussions to obviate systemic 
uncertainty and concern s of many Members including the LDCs. Bangladesh looks forward to working 
with the cosponsors and other Members in this regard.  
8.49.   The representative of Chile delivered the following statement:  
8.50.   In our view, this proposal is a substantive contribution to pro moting transparency and seeking 
to enhance Members' capacities to comply with their notification obligations.  Properly honouring 
transparency commitments is essential to the smooth functioning of the WTO, the enhanced 
implementation of Multilateral Trade A greements and the creation of a stable and predictable 
environment for the various trade actors.  The current notification obligations are now more than 25 WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  years old and were negotiated in a very different context than today's, so it is important to be able  
to improve our procedures in the light of current needs and technological developments. The low 
level of compliance with notification requirements is a serious problem for the transparency and 
credibility of the WTO.  
8.51.   This proposal is a contribution to add ressing that challenge and incorporates diverse views 
expressed by Members. We believe that the current proposal does not establish new notification 
obligations, nor does it extend the scope of existing ones. Its aim is to find ways to enable Members 
to me et their existing commitments, while also addressing the difficulties that many Members face. 
This is why technical assistance is incorporated as a central element.  Chile calls on Members to give 
positive consideration to this document, as it would benefit  the proper functioning of this 
Organization as a whole, in a complex international context in which we need more and better 
multilateralism.  
8.52.   The representative of Indonesia  delivered the following statement:  
8.53.   Indonesia appreciates the submission by the group of Members to enhance transparency and 
improve compliance with notification requirements under WTO Agreements. Indonesia shares the 
views on the importance of transparency to ensure predictability in trade.  Strengthening the 
monitoring system will provide Members to have equal access to information on prevailing laws, 
regulations, measures, and policies as well as benefit Members in anticipating certain impacts on 
trade from measures undertaken by Members. I ndonesia understands that the draft proposal has 
been developed and revised. However, we need to take into consideration the capacity constraints 
and difficult challenges faced by developing Members and LDCs that could not be treated equally 
with developed  members. We also should not treat transparency compliance as a "policing " 
mechanism that could limit the policy space of members. Therefore, Indonesia is of the view that it 
is important to utilize the existing mechanism in the WTO, while also reaffirms i ts commitment with 
regard to this obligation. We need to maximize the existing tools which are provided in the WTO 
system. As such, this monitoring mechanism should not duplicate existing ones that we already have 
before us in order to avoid proliferation,  such as the proposed establishment of a working group.  
8.54.   The representative of Brazil  delivered the following statement:  
8.55.   Brazil is proud to be one of the cosponsors of this initiative.  In our document about "Moving 
the WTO forward" (JOB/GC/253, March 2021 ), we stressed the importance of enhancing 
transparency and strengthening notifications. This must be an indispensable part of the WTO reform.  
We welcome the new cosponsors and hope we can have more Members on board so that this 
document can be adopted as soon as possible.  
8.56.   The representative of Switzerland  delivered the following statement:  
8.57.   We thank the United States for its introductory remarks and for this revised version of the 
proposal.  We wish to recall that transparency, through compliance with our notification obligations, 
is a prerequisite for effective monitoring of our respective trade policies, which is a key pillar of the 
WTO. Perhaps more importantly, transparency also helps build trust among WTO  Members.  At 
present, there is room to improve t he rate of compliance with notification obligations. With this 
objective in mind, the proposal in question offers pragmatic solutions.  Switzerland supports the 
adoption of this proposal by the General Council and calls on all Members to follow suit.  
8.58.   The re presentative of Kenya , on behalf of the ACP Group , delivered the following statement:  
8.59.   The ACP Group appreciates the eleventh revised proposal from the proponents, in which 
punitive and other measures have now been removed.  We also note other adjustments t o this most 
recent draft, notably explicit references to developing and least developed country Members.  
Notwithstanding some positive adjustments and obvious attempts by the proponents to respond to 
the concerns raised, the proposal could benefit from further reflection, including with respect to 
scope.   
8.60.   Furthermore, we believe that the ACP and other Members worked hard  towards an agreement 
at MC12 on  a process of reform including on the question of notifications that will enable all Members WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  to introduc e proposals and engage.  We welcome the compromise found in paragraph  3 of the MC12 
Outcome document and the General Council must therefore begin now to take this mandate forward.  
8.61.   The representative of Uruguay  delivered the following statement:  
8.62.   We are tak ing the floor as co -sponsors of this proposal.  The proposal does not create new 
notification obligations,  but aims to improve the efficiency of existing ones.  All Members seem to 
agree on the need for, and increase in, transparency.  But we would like to em phasize another aspect 
of this proposal, which is that it would allow us to update the information available to us.  We wonder 
how we are going to approach the upcoming WTO negotiations when we have delayed and 
incomplete information.  This proposal aims to solve these problems, to update the information 
available to us and to ensure we have complete information.  We must look at the issue of the 
effectiveness of negotiations going forward.  We therefore echo Chile's call and invite Members to 
support this prop osal. 
8.63.   The representative of European Union  delivered the following statement:  
8.64.   We have listened carefully to the various interventions. Over the last few months, the United 
States and other cosponsors have made significant efforts to proactively speak to M embers and 
accommodate the comments and concerns raised. The proposal has been significantly recalibrated. 
It is now focused on incentives: the decision relates to existing notification requirements; it will 
essentially launch a process open to all Members  to consider ways to help Members submit their due 
notifications; and it includes a strong focus on support and assistance to Members.  
8.65.   We all agree that transparency and notifications are critical. MC12 showed that when there is 
political will, we can take  actions that set us on the right track. This proposal is about launching a 
positive process, without prejudice to the outcome.  As several Members before us have indicated, it 
is crucial that we benefit from updated and accurate information. We have taken good note of the 
comments that the proposal is focused on Annex 1A (goods). We indeed "need to start somewhere " 
and the initial focus on goods does not prevent us from addressing TRIPS and GATS at a later stage. 
We should take steps to modernise the Organi sation now.  
8.66.   The representative of the Republic of Korea  delivered the following statement:  
8.67.   Korea would like to join others in highlighting the importance of transparency in various work 
of the WTO. Transparency is indeed one of the very fundamental elemen ts for the operation of the 
WTO, providing enhanced predictability and stability in today's uncertain global trade environment.  
To my delegation, enhanced transparency in the WTO is a public good. Therefore, Members are 
expected to continue to explore methods to improve compliance with existing notification 
requirement under many WTO agreements.  As the United States and others reiterated, over the 
course of developing the revised proposal, the co -sponsors have made special efforts to address a 
Member's difficulty arising from capacity constraints or unexpected circumstances by inclusively 
accommodating different voices and various perspectives. Most significantly, this proposal is not 
intended to introduce any additional burden or obligation on M embers in addition to the existing 
commitments. In spite of all this, unfortunately, a number of Members still find it difficult to accept 
the proposal. As a co -sponsor, Korea once again calls upon those sceptical Members to engage 
actively with co -sponsor s to arrive at the adoption of the proposal as early as possible. Thank you.  
8.68.   The representative of Australia  delivered the following statement:  
8.69.   Transparency is a baseline requirement of our efforts at the WTO. As the Republic of Korea 
said, it is a global  public good. It appears from today 's interventions that everyone agrees with the 
notion that we can and should do more in the WTO to promote transparency. But for some 
delegations, while transparency is crucial, the response to launching a process that re flects that, is 
"but/however/maybe ". These qualifications have proliferated throughout today 's discussion. The co -
sponsors of this proposal have made extraordinary efforts to revise the proposal to accommodate 
Members. There are no penalties in this propos al. No new obligations. Just improved incentives. This 
is about making transparency obligations easier to meet, not harder. I must say that today 's 
discussion does not augur well for WTO reform efforts, if even simple proposals like this can not 
attract con vergence. We are seeking a little more understanding and effort to come together around 
this proposal. We understand there is some scepticism and mistrust around this proposal. We can WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  assure you, if you focus on the proposal itself, you will see this is a good faith effort to promote a 
baseline for how we can successfully discharge our existing transparency obligations. We are open 
to concrete ideas on how we can move to consensus. We hope this proposal can be received in the 
spirit in which it has been sub mitted, namely to launch a bottom -up process to discuss these issues 
which we all agree are essential. We  would  like to thank the United States and other co -sponsors 
for their efforts on this proposal. This will be a fundamental next step on our WTO reform  journey.  
8.70.   The representative of Japan  delivered the following statement:  
8.71.   Like previous speakers, as a co -sponsor of this proposal, Japan considers that having a 
consensus among Members at an earliest stage to improve the notification system - the transpar ency 
system for this Organization - is a very critical step forward to improve the software of the WTO. 
The purpose of this proposal is for all Members to discuss possible improvements of the current 
notification system, bearing in mind the difficulties th at LDCs and other developing countries 
Members are facing. We consider that, as previous speakers pointed out, there are no new 
obligations. This proposal is rather centred at more targeted technical assistance and capacity 
building. We would like to see a  consensus emerging. In order to do so, Japan is eager to engage in 
discussions with concerned Members.   
8.72.   The representative of Egypt  delivered the following statement:  
8.73.   Egypt supports the statement made by the delegation of Cameroon on behalf of the Africa n 
Group and South Africa on behalf of the cosponsors.  Our position is well -known and we shall not 
repeat it today. Nonetheless, we need to reiterate that if our discussions leading to the decision shall 
be evidence based, then the TRIPs decision should be extended to cover therapeutics and diagnostics 
without any further ado.  We invite out trade partners to engage with us on the basis of the evidence 
presented or prepared by relevant international bodies especially the WHO and on the basis of the 
time frame  we suggested in the room document that we presented. Chair the WTO should adopt a 
comprehensive response to the pandemic by making a positive decision and extend the d  
8.74.   For the benefit of time , my delegation thought of taking the floor  only once. With your  
permission I would add the following with respect to Agenda items 1 ,2 and 3.  Egypt affirms its 
commitment to implementing the decisions of the Twelfth Ministerial Conference and the Ministerial 
Conferences in Bali and Nairobi, and we would like to suppor t the interventions of the African Group 
and the Arab Group made under those agenda items.  We would also like to confirm what was 
included in the statement made by my delegation at the meeting of heads of delegations earlier this 
month.  
8.75.   The representative  of the United Kingdom  delivered the following statement:  
8.76.   First of all we thank the work by the United States and the cosponsors, we thank them for 
the way they have engaged with other delegations on this. Transparency is an essential part of this 
organisation's work, we do it well, but we could do it better. That is what this proposal is all about, 
making our existing work better without new obligations but with some new incentives. Just as we 
came together at MC12, to find agreement on some issues  on which different delegations had 
different concerns, I hope we can come together on this proposal, find consensus and improve the 
work of our organisation to the benefit of all Members.  
8.77.   The representative of Canada  delivered the following statement:  
8.78.   Canada supports the adoption of this decision.  Canada expects the results of the work called 
for by it will bring long -term benefits to all pillars of our Organization.  It has indeed been a long time 
since the last meeting of the Working Group on Notificatio ns Obligations and Procedures.  It is time 
for it to be reactivated and to get to work on the task at hand.   
8.79.   The representative of the Philippines  delivered the following statement:  
8.80.   We wish to reiterate that transparency is one of the key pillars of an eff ective rules -based 
multilateral trading system, it is indeed one of the most important elements to ensure predictability 
and a stable business environment. The draft decision as it stands reaffirms WTO Members' existing 
transparency notification obligation s and seeks to improve compliance. Recognizing the challenges WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  some Members, especially developing and least developed countries encounter to fully comply, the 
draft decision welcomes the technical assistance and capacity building provisions. And so, we tha nk 
the sponsors for addressing these concerns which have been expressed today. The Philippines just 
reiterates that it sees great value in implementing this decision as part of our WTO reform efforts. 
And as the UK Ambassador has said: let us do it better,  let us follow after MC12, let us follow the 
example of the FAO World Food Programme. Perhaps this may just require a few further explanations 
and, since I am known as Mr. Optimist, I just see this as a small hiccup in the process towards 
adapting this dra ft decision.  
8.81.   The representative of Singapore  delivered the following statement:  
8.82.   I was not intending to take the floor but having heard the discussion I just want to add three 
quick points. First, transparency is, as our colleagues from UK and Australia h ighlighted, a global 
common good and it is fundamental to the rules -based multilateral trading system. Second, 
membership in any organization, including the WTO, has privileges but also responsibilities and it is 
our responsibility, as Members, to take tra nsparency seriously. Third and finally, I just want to echo 
what our colleagues have highlighted earlier that this is a simple but meaningful proposal and if 
Members can not even agree on such a proposal it is both disappointing and disturbing.  
8.83.   The represen tative of Peru delivered the following statement:  
8.84.   As the Ambassador of Singapore has just said, I did not intend to take the floor on this matter. 
However, we are here, a gathering of Members, and we should be in a position to show that despite 
of the dif ferences of views we did have a successful MC12. We were successful with respect to 
fisheries, with respect to food security and so on, I am not going to list all of the positive outcomes 
from our Ministerial Conference that we all very much appreciate, gi ven that situation, however, I 
do find it disappointing that because of misunderstandings or difficulties this attempted improving 
of one of the vital pillars of our Organization, transparency, is being viewed with some doubts and 
suspicion. Of course, the re is room for improvement, initiatives and texts can be enhanced, but as 
the delegate of Uruguay and others have said, the point is not at all to add notification obligations, 
the whole question is to improve things. So, we would urge those delegations wh o have reservations, 
please do engage with the whole question, try to seek clarifications so that we can see where there 
might be even a hint of an increased obligation, so that we can move forward together on this.  
8.85.   The representative of Mexico  delivered the following statement:  
8.86.   I will be brief. I would simply like to express my agreement with my colleagues from Chile 
and Uruguay and others who have expressed their support for this proposal. There has been a lot of 
work done on this proposal over some time and, as co -sponsors, we are going to be in a very good 
position to have discussions with some delegations. I am rather surprised to hear that some of the 
hesitation with respect to this proposal are not really about the core of the proposal. I think we do 
need to ensure that we all understand that transparency is key to this Organization and we need 
also to remember that we need to bear in mind that we will not be able to work on reforming this 
Organization if we can do other proposal as clear and straightforward as this one.  
8.87.   The representative of the United States  delivered the following statement:  
8.88.   Well, that was interesting. I thank those who supported the proposal , they  made very 
appropriate statements. I am not g oing to answer every concern that was raised but of course we 
will continue, I am not going away on this issue. As noted, transparency is key, without transparency 
we have nothing , and as I believe Australia made this point and Canada and others, this is a  need 
for reform, we must reform our approach to transparency in this Organization if we want to be able 
to move forward. So, we will continue engaging with everybody, but I do want to make a few points. 
Please, do read the proposal, there are no new rules , no new obligations in this proposal. This is 
about helping and assisting meeting the obligations that we already undertook that we all undertook, 
there are no new rules. I am happy to personally sit down with whoever thinks there are new rules 
being esta blished, new obligations being established in this proposal. So, we can have a conversation 
about it. Clearly there are no new obligations here , and this is about setting a process where we can 
all participate in to figure out how to improve the way that w e do notifications in the WTO. It does 
not have any predetermined outcome, it is about establishing a process for improving how we do 
notifications and providing assistance.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  8.89.   On the issue of scope, I find it interesting that a reason for not agreeing to th e proposal where 
we can start, I think the EU made this comment, we need to start somewhere. I think that if we had 
started with applying this to every notification obligation , the concern would have been that we are 
doing too much. But again, paragraph 11  it does provide for the possibility that this will be extended, 
could be extended, if we all want it to be so to other notification obligations. The other comment 
that I have heard, and I heard this before  – this issue that the incentives that are provide d here 
under technical assistance applied to all Members ha ve been negative. There are all sorts of reasons 
why Members may have difficulties, Members of all sizes and development status may have 
difficulties meeting the notification obligations and we think that it makes sense that if a Member 
comes forward with sp ecific needs . Again, I point you to paragraph 7 that talks about: you come 
forward to the Secretariat with your specific needs , and then we figure out what technical assistance 
and what help needs to be provided . So, I think that this is intended to apply to everybody, this 
being in negative, I found curious and a little sad. China asked a very specific question on what does 
"timely and complete notification" mean, we can have this conversation . We hope to have many 
conversations and we will definitely have  more conversations with everybody. But on the issue of 
"timely and complete notifications", what I just point right now is that it is a concept that appears 
in multiple places in WTO documents . I would just point out that this is all about making and 
facilitating the completion of timely and complete notifications, so I do not see what the problem is, 
and maybe I misunderstood the question. I will end by thanking Ukraine for joining us as co -sponsors 
and particularly given their difficulties . It is very he artening, and it is a very positive note.  
8.90.   The representative of Djibouti , on behalf of the LDC Group , provided the following statement:  
8.91.   The LDC Group thanks the co -sponsors for their proposal on procedures to enhance 
transparency and improve compliance w ith notification requirements under WTO Agreements. The 
LDC Group takes note of changes made to their proposal removing certain provisions that were 
problematic.  The LDC Group is still reviewing the proposal and will hold internal consultations after 
the break when our members have returned.  The Group also wishes to recall the LDC Communication 
JOB/GC/223/Rev.1  on WTO reform in which its view on notification and transparency is described in 
detail. Emphasis is laid on the capacity constraints encountered by  individual Member countries and 
provision of technical assistance alone will not result in significant change. Rather support must be 
accompanied with financial assistance to extend concrete help in Capital.  The LDC Group would also 
urge further dialogue under the General Council on this matter within the process pertaining to WTO 
reform, in the spirit of formulating a more comprehensive set of recommendations geared to the 
needs of least developed countries.  Finally , the LDC Group wishes to recall Article  XI.2 of the 
Marrakesh Agreement, which states that LDCs "will only be required to undertake commitments and 
concessions to the extent consistent with their individual development, financial and trade needs or 
their administrative and institutional capabil ities".  
8.92.   The General Council took note  of the statements  made . 
9  STRENGTHENING THE WTO TO PROMOTE DEVELOPMENT AND INCLUSIVITY – 
COMMUNICATION FROM THE AFRICAN GROUP, CUBA, INDIA AND PAKISTAN 
(WT/GC/W/778/REV.5)  
9.1.  The representative of Cameroon , on behalf of the  African Group , delivered the following 
statement:  
9.2.  The African Group takes this opportunity to welcome Pakistan as an additional cosponsor of 
this revised submission in document WT/GC/W/778/Rev.5 of the paper we presented to the General 
Council in Februar y this year titled "Strengthening the WTO to Promote Development and 
Inclusivity ". As the General Council meets for the first time following a successful 12th Ministerial 
Conference last month, we welcome the agreement by our Ministers at MC12 on WTO and we are 
well aware that the commitment contained in paragraph 3 of the MC12 Outcome Document is only 
the beginning of a journey towards renewal of the multilate ral trading system.  
9.3.  As we pointed out at the General Council of 23 -24 February, our submission is intended to 
capture a developmental perspective on the operations of the WTO, and to define a WTO Reform 
agenda that speaks to the longstanding aspirations o f developing countries on pertinent issues of 
their interest. The rebalancing of WTO rules in favour of equitable economic development, fairness, WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  and in support of the structural transformation of African economies has indeed been a key demand 
of ours sinc e the conclusion of the Uruguay Round in 1996.  
9.4.  We reiterate our conviction that the core foundational principles that underpin the WTO and 
the multilateral trading system such as inclusivity, equality, transparency, and consensus decision -
making, including  the upholding of the character of the WTO as a Member -driven organisation should 
continue to be guarded and preserved.  For the African Group, WTO reform should at its heart be 
about economic development and "raising standards of living " and "ensuring full  employment " as 
envisioned in the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the WTO. It must reinforce special and 
differential treatment (S&D) as a core tenet of the WTO, its agreements, and future negotiations; 
and it should fundamentally address longstanding imb alances in the WTO rules.  
9.5.  Post-MC12 discussions on reform should be attuned to the realities of the negative impact that 
COVID -19, and the currently escalating food security crisis that has disproportionately impacted 
developing. Developing countries, now  more than ever need all the necessary support and policy 
space to lead their economies towards economic recovery and sustainable growth trajectories. 
Reform must support access to policy tools that support the industrialization goals of developing 
Members , including the resolution of long -awaited development issues from the Doha Round.  
9.6.  The reform discussions should give practical meaning to and provide more impetus to the 
objectives and call of the Marrakesh Agreement "for positive efforts designed to ensu re that 
developing countries and especially, the least developed among them, secure a share in the growth 
in international trade commensurate with the needs of their economic development ". It is certainly 
not the hour now to insist on rules that constrain the policy space of developing Members to advance 
towards a sustainable industrialization path and becoming meaningful players in global trade.  
9.7.  Reform of the dispute settlement system should be our highest priority, whilst simultaneously 
addressing systemi c obstacles that render the dispute settlement system out of reach for the 
majority of developing countries. The restoration of the Appellate Body is crucial for the maintenance 
of the balance of rights and obligations that were carefully negotiated in the  Dispute Settlement 
Understanding. The process that is undertaken to discuss the reform of the WTO and the general 
conduct of work in WTO Bodies should be permeated by transparency and openness. In this regard, 
the Organization of work should take into acc ount the capacities and resource constraints of 
Members and Groups of Members. It is also important that the roles and functions of the 
Chairpersons of WTO bodies, the WTO Secretariat, including relevant stakeholders, 
intergovernmental and international or ganizations  are also informed and guided by the core 
principles we have outlined.  
9.8.  In conclusion, the African Group looks forward to engaging constructively with all Members on 
our submission and vision for reform. We trust that the process and agenda of W TO reform shall 
respond to the needs of the African Group, and genuinely address the aspirations of developing 
countries in general.  
9.9.  The representative of South Africa  delivered the following statement:  
9.10.   South Africa aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Africa n Group and associates 
itself with the statement by the ACP. We also take this opportunity to welcome Pakistan as a 
cosponsor of document WT/GC/W/778/Rev.5 titled "Strengthening the WTO to Promote 
Development and Inclusivit y". We fully reiterate our view that WTO reform should at its core be 
development -centred. The reform process should contribute towards shaping a more even and just 
economic recovery from the dire impact of C OVID -19 and lately the alarming escalation in gl obal 
food insecurity and related global market volatility. WTO rules contain many imbalances and 
inequities that have prejudiced the trade and development interests of developing countries in 
particular. WTO reform should not mean accepting inherited inequ ities, but should rather be geared 
towards the rebalancing of trade rules to provide policy space for African countries to pursue their 
strategic and industrialization objectives, including addressing the asymmetries in WTO Agreements.  
9.11.   We must urgently re solve the dysfunctionality of the Appellate Body. This is critical for 
certainty and as a reaffirmation of the rule of law in the conduct of our trade relations. As we 
welcome and reflect on the next steps in pursuance of the MC12 Ministerial mandate on WT O reform, 
South Africa reiterates that the following key principles remain pertinent: 1. Safeguarding and WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  strengthening of the multilateral character of the WTO, including the retention of consensus decision -
making, equality, inclusivity and transparency i n the operations of the WTO ; 2. Safeguarding the 
Member -driven nature of the WTO ; 3. Preservation of policy tools for developing countries to 
promote economic recovery and provision policy flexibility to support their structural transformation 
and industri alization ; 4. Reaffirming the principle of Special and Differential Treatment for developing 
countries in the WTO ; 5. Reasserting development within the WTO by delivering on longstanding 
development mandates ; 6. Restoring a functioning, independent and eff ective dispute settlement 
system that will be accessible to all. South Africa looks forward to constructive engagements on the 
content and nature of reforms we jointly envision in line with the MC12 Ministerial mandates.  
9.12.   The representative of Pakistan  delivered the following statement:  
9.13.   We wish to thank and align ourselves with the statement made by the African Group on behalf 
of the cosponsors.  The proposal which we have joined as a co -sponsor thoroughly reflects our 
priorities for a WTO which would be fi t for purpose and the kind of reform that is necessary for this 
organisation.  A WTO fit for purpose would need a mechanism to implement the existing and long 
overdue mandates and to address the imbalances and inequities. It requires that its fundamental 
principles, such as consensus -based decision making, and Special and Differential Treatment for 
developing countries must be preserved. SDT must be unconditional and non -reciprocal, based on 
members own determination. The restoration of a fully functional tw o-tiered dispute settlement 
system is also crucial for the legitimacy of the organisation and to infuse confidence in the world 
about the WTO 's credibility.  
9.14.   Increasingly our world will be faced with problems of the global commons and issues that 
need a col lective and cooperative response from this organisation. We are already witnessing the 
COVID -19 pandemic. Monkey pox has been declared a global public health emergency. Similarly, 
the developing food crises, devastating impacts of climate change patterns are adding new layers of 
challenges, particularly for the developing economies. As we ride into the storm of WTO reform we 
need to keep in mind that none of these challenges can be overcome by taking competitive 
approaches. We have to make WTO fit  for purpose if this organisation is expected to come up with 
any solutions of the global commons. Our track record needs much to be desired. We can certainly 
improve; we have hope after MC12.  We therefore call on Members to consider this proposal 
meaningf ully and constructively engage on this proposal to move towards a true and credible reform 
of the institution. Let us fix what is needed, not reinvent the wheel, and not tinker with concepts 
that are well -established and disturbing which could weaken the f oundations of the organisation.   
9.15.   The representative of New Zealand  delivered the following statement:  
9.16.   New Zealand welcomes our Ministers' collective commitment to WTO Reform made at MC12. 
It is very important to have this clear affirmation from our Minist ers of the importance of the task 
that is ahead of us. We would like to thank the co -sponsors of this paper for the ongoing contribution 
to the discussion of the reform issues. We note the breadth of issues covered in the paper, including 
issues of substan ce such as agriculture, and the way on which we conduct our work. We look forward 
to engaging with co -sponsors and indeed all other Members, and the General Council Chair on how 
to take forward the issue of WTO Reform in September. We will use the summer t o reflect on what 
we might contribute to this discussion, including on issues of prioritization and which ideas amongst 
the range of suggestions emerging across the reform discussion might most usefully be advanced 
first.  
9.17.   The representative of Nepal  delivered the following statement:  
9.18.   I appreciate all the proponents for this proposal. I commend India  and South Africa for briefly 
highlighting the essence of the issue.  While going through the preamble of the Marrakesh Agreement 
establishing the WTO, we understand the relevancy and value of development and inclusivity of the 
WTO functioning, both in process and impact.  Let me t ake an example of my o wn country. Nepal 
had export -import ratio of 1: 2.5 in trade in goods while joining the WTO in 2004. However , the 
country could not benefit from the WTO membership as per the expectation and faced huge 
challenges of trade imbalance resulting in the export -import ratio of about 1: 16.5 in the year 2018.  
This demonstrates an urgency of making the WTO more inclusiv e and taking initiatives in assisting 
socio-economic development of members suffering from huge trade imbalance since they join the 
WTO. This will fall under the responsibility of the WTO if we sincerely respect the preamble and WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  fundamental principles of t he Marrakesh Agreement. In this context, my delegation supports the 
proposal in principle. The issues raised by the proponents are genuine and need to be considered 
positively.  
9.19.   However, I would also like to request the proponents for taking the following four points into 
account while moving ahead for concluding this matter: First, inclusivity cannot be achieved without 
addressing special challenges faced by LDCs and LLDCs in their participation in the multilateral 
trading system. Therefore, supply -side ca pacity constraints and low level of productive capacity of 
those countries need to be adequately addressed ; Second, LDC graduation has become a global 
phenomenon. Poverty is the biggest challenge of LDCs and we know, poverty anywhere is a challenge 
everywh ere. Therefore, how development dimension and inclusivity address unique challenges faced 
by countries graduated from the LDC status could also be a part of the proposal ; Third, country 's 
achievements and progress in enhancing export competitiveness, produ ctive capacity, and domestic 
employment generation by participating in global trade should also be assessed and this aspect 
should be taken into account ; Finally, development and inclusivity should also address capacity 
constraints of weaker segment of mem bership to participate in and benefit from emerging 
opportunities and address challenges. For instance, addressing huge digital divide and capacity gaps 
in benefiting from the digital economy including e -commerce is urgent especially in LDCs and LLDCs. 
My delegation stands ready to constructively engage with the proponents and other Members with 
a view to expediting discussions in this matter in a more result -focused manner.  
9.20.   The representative of Bangladesh  delivered the following statement:  
9.21.   On behalf of Djibouti, the LDC Coordinator, the LDC Group thanks Cameroon for the 
presentation of WT/GC/W/778/Rev.5 on behalf of the cosponsors and supports the principles 
elaborated in the communication. The LDC Group calls for this communication and the LDC Group 's 
submission JOB/GC/223/Rev.1 to be fully considered in the work ahead in the General Council on 
WTO Reform. The members of the LDC Group are ready to work constructively with all delegations. 
The delegation o f Bangladesh thanks the African Group, Cuba, India and Pakistan for the submission 
in document WT/GC/W/778/REV.5 and welcomes the revised version of the communication.  My 
delegation also endorses the statement delivered by Djibouti on behalf of the LDC Gro up. 
Development is a multifaceted concept and inclusive development is one of the pre -conditions of 
sustainability. My delegation acknowledges that all Members do not have the same level of technical 
or administrative capacity, but all should enjoy respect  and recognition from each other. Challenges 
of many developing countries, particularly in the LDCs and the graduating LDCs, are unique and 
these Members still need special and differential treatment which is also at the core of WTO 's 
inherent and insepara ble principles.  
9.22.   The communication has highlighted that Reforms in WTO must be premised on the principles 
of inclusivity and development and respond to the underlying causes of the current backlash against 
trade and the difficulties that developing Members  continue to face vis-à-vis their industrialization 
challenges. The WTO reform must be a comprehensive task which should be open, inclusive and 
transparent. The LDC group has also highlighted several important principles and discussion themes 
on WTO reform  contained in JOB/GC/223/REV.1. The LDC Group supports that inclusivity must 
require preserving consensus decision making in the WTO. The MC12 Outcome document 
(WT/L/1135) paragraph 3 provides that the work for reform shall be Member -driven, open, 
transpar ent inclusive, and must address the interests of all Members, including development issues. 
Bangladesh welcomes the idea of inclusivity in the overarching development goals. This also 
meaningfully aligns with the fundamental principle of the SDGs: no one s hould be left behind. 
Inclusive development demands participatory discussion and decision -making in the WTO. This is 
what we understand - collective responsibility. The delegation of Bangladesh fully supports the 
values of partnership, shared development a nd inclusivity as reflected in this communication.  On 
this issue, my delegation looks forward to working constructively with Members.  
9.23.   The representative of India delivered the following statement:  
9.24.   First of all, I would like to welcome the new co -sponsor,  and would like to thank Cameroon 
for introducing this proposal on behalf of Africa n Group and other co -sponsors. At MC12 the Ministers 
have given us a clear mandate on reforms, WTO reforms, and we all need to work together to 
address the challenges that the WTO is facing. All of us are very well aware of these challenges and 
the need for reforms and Ministers ' reaffirm ation of the foundational principles of the WTO in the 
context of reform is a clear indication that the reforms should be consistent with the core principles WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  of the WTO and should address interests of all members and also pay attention to the development 
issues. The unprecedented outcomes that MC12 has achieved has rebutted successfully, the false 
narrative that WTO 's negotiating function is broken. MC12 has shown that if we are willing to 
understand each other's concerns, work to narrow the differences and  accept compromises, we can 
succeed in delivering results. Despite the success of WTO 's negotiating function at MC12 there are 
still challenges on other functions that we need to address and address them quickly. The mandate 
for restoration of the Appellat e Body by 2024 is perhaps the most significant decision that the 
ministers have taken in the context of WTO reforms. We look forward to closely engaging in this 
process in the coming weeks and months.  
9.25.   Consistent with the mandate provided by the Ministers on WTO reforms, our joint submission 
highlights the issues that are important to the developing countries and addresses the core issues 
that concern development and inclusivity. In this regard, India would also like to draw attention of 
members to the simi lar submission made by the LDC group during the May 2022 General Council 
meeting, vide JOB/GC/223/Rev.1 which also echoes the same issues that have been identified by 
our reform paper. Since we had full discussions on the elements contained in our present proposal 
in earlier GC meetings. I was not planning to repeat those elements once again. However, since 
transparency is the flavour of the day, and going by the discussion on Agenda 8 today, let me take 
this opportunity to highlight some of the transparenc y provisions in our reform proposal. And these 
are what we have said in our proposal that developed members themselves should lead by example, 
in submitting comprehensive, timely and accurate notifications. However, we have seen that this 
has not always be en done and given this, surely the resource constraints of developing countries 
should be appreciated.  
9.26.   Let me give some examples. In the area of agriculture, developed Members those have final 
bound Aggregate Measure of Support (AMS) entitlements should s ubmit their notification within 3 
months at the end of each year. That is certainly one transparency provision, which has not been 
followed by most of the developed countries. They have taken in fact up to two years or more to do 
so. The second example is in the area of Services, i.e., GATS Article III.3.  It requires Members to 
promptly and at least annually inform the Council for Trade in Services of the introduction of any 
new, or any changes to existing laws, regulations or administrative guidelines, whi ch significantly 
affect trade in services governed by its specific commitments under this agreement. The Secretariat 
report presented in 2020 vide JOB (09)/10/Rev. 10, very clearly indicates how Members have failed 
in doing so, particularly developed count ries before the pandemic, and this has further got 
aggravated during the pandemic. I am happy to note that in the proposal for transparency under 
Agenda 8, paras 5 and 6 does not distinguish between developed and developing countries. And 
therefore, I woul d request that the developed countries should start getting access to support and 
capacity building from Secretariat for timely notification in these matters. We have also seen that 
some of the Members , particularly from the developed countries, have not b een fully complying with 
WTO commitments on transparency and therefore the reform should also take care of these 
undermining of commitments. Let me give four examples on that : (i) The regular notification of 
entry -related measures affecting existing mode 4  commitments of members have not been 
transparently notified ; (ii) Article 66.2 of the TRIPS Agreement, developed countries have a legal 
obligation in the area of technology transfer towards LDCs.  More transparency would be supportive 
of LDCs efforts to bu ild a viable technological base ; (iii) Disclosure of origin of traditional knowledge 
and genetic resources in patent applications ; (iv) Transparency in tariffs – Non ad -valorem tariffs 
should be notified in ad valorem terms or converted to ad valorem tarif fs. I was not intending to 
take up such a long list of examples where the reforms should actually go forward in the transparency 
part, but I was forced, based on the discussion in the previous Agenda item 8, which was again 
giving a false narrative of 'we' versus 'they'. So, I  am saying that all of us are lacking in transparency 
and in notifications. Let us work together towards WTO reform on working closely and jointly without 
making it 'we' versus 'they', at least for the purpose of transparency.  
9.27.   The rep resentative of Cuba delivered the following statement:  
9.28.   My delegation shares the views expressed by Cameroon on behalf of the African Group, India 
and South Africa, as well as by Pakistan, which has joined as co -sponsor of this document.  Following 
the conc lusion of the Ministerial Conference, and given its outcomes, we are of the view that this 
document is becoming increasingly important, especially after hearing doubts in recent days 
regarding what is and what is not considered a mandate.  Developing Member s have been calling for 
reforms since the conclusion of the Uruguay Round to correct the inequities and the imbalances in 
some multilateral trade rules and to create the necessary policy space to industrialize their WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  economies. The unfulfilled promises from  the Doha Development Round, into the agenda of which 
the reform agenda put forth by developing countries was incorporated, remain unaddressed today.  
"WTO reform" does not mean accepting either inherited inequities or new proposals that would 
worsen imbala nces, especially after the COVID -19 pandemic, the effects of which have led to a 
rollback of many years of progress for many developing and least -developed Members.  Reform must 
be premised on the principles of inclusivity and development. It must contribut e to preserving the 
principles of the multilateral trading system, with development at the core of the work. It must also 
strengthen the multilateral character of the WTO and continue the ongoing multilaterally -mandated 
negotiations, incorporating in them the principle of special and differential treatment.  Lastly, I wish 
to recall the words of the head of the Cuban delegation at the Ministerial Conference: "There is no 
single economic model. The WTO must acknowledge the existence of different economic models 
given the importance of government policies in tac kling market failures or achieving development 
goals."  
9.29.   The representative of China  delivered the following statement:  
9.30.   We thank the co -sponsors for this renewed proposal. China supports this proposal and shares 
many views in this proposal on WTO Reform. F irst, the reform should respond to the development 
needs of developing Members, it is essential to address the development deficit in the existing WTO 
rules resolving difficulties they encounter in the integration into economic globalization and help 
them respond to the unprecedented multiple challenges including the pandemic, food security, 
supply chain disruptions etc. Special and differential treatment is a treaty -embedded and a non -
negotiable right for developing Members. Second, WTO Reform could only s ucceed with mutual trust 
and full respect of Members' differences including diverse historical and cultural backgrounds, 
different economic models and development paths. Third, the two -tier dispute settlement system is 
essential to ensure security and pred ictability of the multilateral trading system. We welcome the 
recent informal discussions on dispute settlement reform led by the US and hope this exercise could 
help us to have a fully and well -functioning dispute settlement system by 2024. Last but not l east, 
the basic principles of the WTO, such as non -discrimination, openness and consensus -based 
decision -making should be well preserved. Reform is never an easy task, the success of MC12 has 
provided us with an invaluable opportunity for WTO reform, let u s seize the opportunity to build 
momentum and the confidence and work together for a well -functioning WTO.  
9.31.   The representative of the European Union  delivered the following statement:  
9.32.   The European Union appreciates the Members' engagement in exploring how  to reform the 
WTO. We are carefully reviewing the views and ideas set out in this communication as we believe in 
a process where all voices can be heard. MC12 provided evidence that we can find ways forward 
when working constructively together.  At MC12 Members also agreed to reform the WTO in order to 
make it more capable of responding effectively to the challenges facing the multilateral trading 
system. In this context, the EU calls on all Members to engage constructively on WTO reform. Going 
forward, we should disaggregate the individual components of reform: 1. Monitoring and deliberating 
function, 2. the negotiating function, 3. Dispute settlement, where we have agreed that a fully 
functioning dispute settlement system should be in place by 2024. The Eu ropean Union intends to 
participate in deliberations with an open mind so that reforms are both meaningful and respond to 
the expectations of the broad WTO membership. It will be important to deliver concrete 
improvements by MC13.We are open to engaging wi th the membership on previous submitted 
proposals in this context as well as upcoming proposals.  Integration of developing countries in the 
multilateral trading system is one of the central objectives of the sustainable development goals. 
We remain of the view that developing countries should be provided with assistance and flexibilities. 
The European Union is open to considering ideas on how to promote a more forward -looking 
engagement on development issues. We look forward to engaging further in reform di scussions in 
the autumn.  
9.33.   The representative of Indonesia  delivered the following statement:  
9.34.   Indonesia would like to thank the African Group, Cuba, India, and Pakistan on their submission 
on Strengthening the WTO to Promote Development and Inclusivity. Thi s proposal reflects the need 
of developing members on the inclusion of development perspective and inclusive growth in the WTO 
and continued call by developing Members to address development issues. This proposal also 
describes the inherent imbalances in W TO which could be addressed by strengthening WTO through 
the three functions of the WTO by upholding key principles in the multilateral trading system, such WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  as S&DT rights for developing Members. Therefore, Indonesia supports this proposal with a view to 
keep development at the core of all of our works. This submission provides Members with key 
priorities for reform at the WTO in all its functions, including priorities for the WTO response on 
COVID -19 pandemic that is relevant with our future work to follow  up the MC12 outcomes on 
pandemic response and TRIPS waiver.  
9.35.   The representative of Egypt  delivered the following statement:  
9.36.   We have requested the floor to welcome Pakistan as the new co -sponsor of 
WT/GC/W/ 778/Rev.5. We echo the statements made by Cameroo n on behalf of the African Group. 
As mentioned by South Africa, reform should bring about economic resilience, enhance production 
and productivity in developing countries and should increase developing countries' share in global 
trade. Moreover, reform sho uld be transparent, inclusive and shall address existing imbalances in 
various WTO provisions. As far as reform and transparency are concerned, we believe that the 
statement made by India is quite descriptive of the issue at hand and how to deal with it. R eform 
should allow for the proper policy space needed for developing countries to deliver on their individual 
development aspirations with development at the heart of our work. Allow all Members to adequately 
address acute challenges like pandemics and foo d security in a manner consistent with their 
legitimate needs.  
9.37.   The representative of the United Kingdom  delivered the following statement:  
9.38.   It is clear that if you listen to this debate that we all want to see this organisation reformed, 
but we've all got  very different ideas of what reform means, so I take due note of what is in this 
communication and the comments made by colleagues this morning. I think we ought to be aware 
that different Members have different views, different visions, and as we resume this work back in 
September under your guidance, your consultations, we need to find ways to find common ground 
as we did again, at the Ministerial, and not assume that any one vision can answer the needs of the 
organisation as a whole.  
9.39.   The representative of the Plurinational State of Bolivia  delivered the following statement:  
9.40.   We thank the African Group, Cuba, India and Pakistan for their proposal, and we value the 
elements reflected in the document to address the necessary reform of all WTO functions. We deem 
this a significant contribution to begin essential work for our Organization and to be up to the 
challenges posed by current circumstances. We must carry out a credible procedure based on 
developmental priority, the WTO must modernize and update the r ules that have remained static for 
decade and no longer correspond to the development needs of its Members. We require the urgent 
reestablishment of the dispute settlement system in its two tiers from the creation of the 
Organization asymmetries among Memb ers have deepened, therefore the WTO Reform must 
necessarily include effective S&DT measures insuring the participation of developing and least 
developed countries in global trade without curtailing its development possibilities to industrialize its 
econom ies and reactivate its economy as well as ensuring food sovereignty. Bolivia expresses its 
interest and commitment to work constructively with co -sponsors and other Members on the matter.  
9.41.   The representative of Botswana  provided the following statement:  
9.42.   My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by Cameroon on behalf of the African 
Group.  My delegation believes that preserving the foundational principles of the WTO is critical to 
reflect the diversity in m embership and the need to ensure WTO agreements serve the interests of 
the membership as a whole, taking into account differences in levels of development to promote the 
integration of developing countries into the global trading system.  The reform agenda that addresses 
the structural transformation of developing countries and the preservation of a rules based 
multilateral trading system that is transparent and inclusive, is very critical.  
9.43.   The representative of Canada  provided the following statement:  
9.44.   As indicated before, we agree that the WTO needs to be reformed and updated – where we 
differ is on the best approach to achieve this objective. The WTO is a Member -driven Organization. 
All major decisions, including the conclusion of multilateral negotiat ions have been taken by 
consensus. This decision -making mechanism is at the centre of the multilateral trading system. WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  There are no second -class Members. To be an effective organization, the WTO must be prepared to 
address new trade -related issues and to i mprove how it addresses longstanding issues. In a number 
of areas, creating new or modified trade rules is more than overdue.   
9.45.   In some cases, we can proceed most effectively multilaterally.  In other cases, the JSI model 
offers a pragmatic and realistic ave nue for interested Members to pursue common objectives.  The 
JSI negotiations are inclusive, transparent and open to all WTO Members. We note the increased 
participation of developing Members. It would be premature to prejudge the legal architecture of the 
JSIs, as each initiative is unique.  However, it would be very worrisome if any Member raised concerns 
about an outcome that was trade liberalizing or that increased the predictability of the global trading 
environment.   
9.46.   On dispute settlement, Canada firmly  supports a binding two stage system and agrees that 
having a well and fully -functioning multilateral system should be a priority. However, we do not 
consider that this should be a prerequisite to engaging constructively in negotiations on new rules.  
On th e larger trade and development point, let me be clear here that Canada believes that 
development is a core element of the Organization and Members must find ways to ensure that the 
WTO fulfils its objective of fully integrating developing members into the multilateral trading system.  
9.47.   We are also committed to ensuring that the WTO is inclusive and transparent and that it 
reflects the needs and expectations of 21st century stakeholders.  Importantly, there is no one -sized 
fits all approach to addressing the l egitimate development needs of WTO Members. We must instead 
look for tailored approaches that are responsive to both the subject matter at hand as well as the 
individual capacities and situations of WTO Members. We do share concerns that the Organization 
risks becoming irrelevant if we cannot move beyond traditional positions and look at applicable, 
pragmatic ways to address the trade and development nexus that work for all Members.  
9.48.   The General Council took note  of the statements  made .  
10  WAIVERS UNDER ARTICLE IX OF THE WTO AGREEMENT  
10.1  Review of waivers pursuant to article IX:4 of the WTO Agreement  
10.1.1   Least -developed country members – Obligations under Article 70.8 and 
Article  70.9 of the TRIPS Agreement with respect to pharmaceutical products, granted on 
30 November 2015 until 1 January 2033 (WT/L/971)  
10.1.2   Kimberley process certification scheme for rough diamonds, granted on 26 July 
2018 through 31 December 2024 (WT/L/1039)  
10.1.3   Canada – CARIBCAN, granted on 28 July 2015 until 31 December 2023 
(WT/L/958, WT/L/1146)  
10.1.4   European Union – Application of autonomous preferential treatment to the 
Western Balkans – Granted on 28 July 2021 until 31 December 2026 (WT/L/1114, 
WT/L/1147)  
10.1.   The Chair  noted that, concerning the review of waivers, in accordance with paragraph 4 of 
Article IX of the WTO Agreement, "any waiver granted for a period of more than one year shall be 
reviewed by the Ministerial Conference not later than one year after it is granted, and thereafter 
annually until the waiver terminates." There were four waivers b efore the General Council for review, 
and they were listed in the proposed Agenda. These waivers had already been agreed by the General 
Council and were in force. In other words, the General Council was not expected to take any new 
decision on their renewa l or otherwise at this meeting. Two of the waivers under review provided 
that an annual report should be submitted by the Member concerned regarding the operation or 
implementation of those waivers with a view to facilitating their annual review by the Gen eral 
Council. The reports from Canada and the European Union had been circulated in documents 
WT/L/1146 and WT/L/1147 respectively.  
10.2.   The representative of Bahamas , on behalf of CARICOM , speaking as an Observer , delivered 
the following statement:  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  10.3.   I make thi s statement on behalf of the CARICOM Group. CARICOM is grateful to the 
Government of Canada for the trade related provisions outlined in documents WT/L/958 and 
WT/L1146.  In 1985, at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Nassau, Bahamas 
Canada mad e a commitment to its sister states in the Caribbean region to assist in economic 
development through the promotion of trade and export earnings, investment opportunities, and to 
enhance economic integration and cooperation through a trade development assi stance program 
referred to as CARIBCAN.  Since its inception, CARICOM Member States have benefitted from 
CARIBCAN and we look forward to the continued progress of this arrangement.  Preferential access 
to the Canadian market, whether under CARIBCAN or the Ge neral Preferential Tariff (GPT) is crucial 
for our region as it contributes directly and indirectly to micro and medium sized businesses, foreign 
exchange earnings and our further integration into the global economy.  Document WT/L/1146, 
highlights total tr ade under CARIBCAN, valued at CAN $1.75 billion /USD $1. 35 billion. Canadian 
Imports from the CARICOM region have grown steadily under this arrangement with some decline 
being recorded as result of the COVID –19 pandemic. However, trade between the region and Canada 
is now positively on the rebound.  The data provided is an indication of the benefits CARICOM member 
States receive from the Government of Canada through the CARIBCAN and we are most appreciative 
of this opportunity to express to Canada our grati tude for their economic and trade and development 
assistance to our region and for their 2022 report.   
10.4.   The representative of Canada  delivered the following statement:  
10.5.   CARIBCAN reflects the special relationship between Canada and the Commonwealth 
Caribbean.  Since 1986, it has helped improve the trade and economic development prospects of the 
region. In light of the continuing relevance of the considerations underlying CARIBCAN, the 
initiative 's objectives, scope and coverage remain unc hanged. Canada thanks those Members that 
have expressed support for the CARIBCAN program and the associated WTO waiver.  
10.6.   The representative of Barbados  delivered the following statement:  
10.7.   At the outset, Barbados wishes to register its association with the s tatement delivered by 
Bahamas on behalf of the CARICOM Group. We thank Canada for its 2022 report on the trade -related 
provisions of CARIBCAN and its continued economic and trade development technical assistance to 
Barbados and the other Commonwealth Carib bean countries. Over the years, the programme has 
been a positive contributor to our trade and export earnings, improving our trade and economic 
development prospects and has led to new investment opportunities for Barbados. Chair, we look 
forward to our c ontinued engagement with Canada and all other Members in the coming months on 
this matter.  
10.8.   The General Council took note  of the statements  made .  
11  WTO PENSION PLAN MANAGEMENT BOARD – ELECTION OF A MEMBER 
(WT/GC/W/852)  
11.1.   The Chair recalled that Article 4 of t he Regulations of the WTO Pension Plan (WT/L/282) 
provided for the establishment of a Management Board comprising, inter alia, four members and 
four alternates elected by the General Council, and four members and four alternates appointed by 
the Director -General. The current membership of the Board was due for renewal in July 2023. As 
indicated in his communication circulated to delegations in document WT/GC/W/852, the Chair of 
the Board, Mr. Jean -Marc Van Dril, had undertaken consultations in June to ident ify one member to 
be elected by the General Council, for the remainder of the current three -year term and subject to 
renewal in 2023. Accordingly, in his communication, and as a result of this process of consultations, 
he had proposed one representative th at had been identified for election as member. He had invited 
delegations to submit any comments regarding the proposed nomination by close -of-business on 
14 July 2022. He informed delegations that no comments had been received on this nomination. 
Therefor e, he proposed that the General Council elected Mr. Leong Darryl (Singapore) to serve as 
member on the Board for the remainder of the term, i.e., until July 2023.  
11.2.   The General Council so agreed . WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  12  OTHER BUSINESS  
12.1  Chairmanship of the Committee on Agriculture in Special Session – Statement by the 
Chair  
12.1.   The Chair recalled that, as noted at the beginning of the meeting, further to the imminent 
departure of Ambassador Gloria Abraham Peralta of Costa Rica, Members needed to fill the position 
of Chair of  the Committee on Agriculture in Special Session. He would begin consultations 
immediately after the summer break by meeting the coordinators of the four broad groups: 
(i) Developed Members; (ii) Africa; (iii) Asia and the Pacific; and (iv) Latin America a nd the 
Caribbean – GRULAC. In line with the Guidelines for the Appointment of Officers and with the 
"Practical Steps" to improve their implementation, he would be assisted in this process by the Chair 
of the DSB, Ambassador H.E. Dr. Athaliah Lesiba Molokom me, and by the former Chair of the General 
Council, Ambassador H.E. Dacio Castillo. He urged the coordinators of the four groups to start 
consulting their constituencies as soon as possible, with a view to filling this vacancy without delay.  
12.2.   The Director -General  delivered the following statement:  
12.3.   I just want to urge Members on this particular issue of trying to assist our work with the GC 
Chair on the issue of identifying the Chair of CoA SS. It would really be important to work fast. We 
have all agreed tha t agriculture needs to take a new turn and the more we delay in trying to identify 
a Chair the more it looks like we do not mean business. So, all I wanted to say whilst you or before 
you leave for your summer holiday, please consult each other and so that  the Chair can have some 
help in coming to conclusion quickly when we come back in September.  
12.4.   The General Council took note  of the statements  made . 
12.2  Statement by the Chair in connection with Administrative Measures for Members in 
arrears  
12.5.   The Chair  recalled  that the General Council Procedures for Members and Observers subject to 
Administrative Measures in WT/BFA/132 required that, at the end of each meeting of the General 
Council, the Chair of the Committee on Budget, Finance and Administration would provide  
information with regard to which Members and Observers are under Administrative Measures.  
12.6.   Ambassador Bettina Waldmann (Germany), Chair of the Committee on Budget, Finance and 
Administration , delivered the following statement:  
12.7.   The Administrative Measures a pplicable to Members and Observers in arrears have been in 
place since 1st March 2013. Administrative Measures are detailed in Annex B of the Financial 
Regulations as contained in document WT/L/156/Rev.3. In accordance with a decision previously 
taken by t he General Council, I shall state all Members and Observers under all categories of 
administrative measures. However, before doing so, I would like to acknowledge payments received 
from ten Members since my last report to you on 9th May. As a result of the se payments, the following 
Members are no longer subject to Administrative Measures: Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, 
Kyrgyz Republic, Niger, Togo, and Zimbabwe. Moreover, Antigua and Barbuda which was previously 
in Category III, is now in Category II. In addition, Cuba, which was previously in Category III, is 
now in Category I. Regarding Observers, Comoros, previously in Category II, is now in Category I. 
This means that Antigua and Barbuda, Comoros, and Cuba, are subject to a lesser scope of 
Administr ative Measures than in the past. This is a result of the payments they have made. I would 
like to express my thanks to these Members for the payments received.  
12.8.   That said, as at 25 July 2022, there remain a total of 19 Members and 10 Observers subject 
to Administrative Measures. The following 8 Members are currently in Category I: Plurinational State 
of Bolivia, Cabo Verde, Cuba, Dominica, El Salvador, Rwanda, Uganda and Zambia. The following 5 
Members are in Category II: Antigua and Barbuda, Djibouti, Maur itania, Papua New Guinea and 
Yemen. The following 6 Members are in Category III: Burundi*, Central African Republic*, Chad*, 
Guinea, Guinea -Bissau* and Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela (* Members not compliant with 
payment plan terms). The following 4 Obse rvers are in Category I: Comoros, Ethiopia, Lebanese 
Republic and South Sudan. The following 2 Observers are in Category II: Iran and Iraq. There are 
also 4 Observers in Category III: Libya, Sao Tomé and Principe, Somalia and Syria.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  12.9.   The representative of Cuba delivered the following statement:  
12.10.   The unilateral coercive measures imposed by the United States on Cuba, which have been 
steadily stepped up since 2017, continue to have a negative impact on the efforts of the Cuban 
Government and society to ensure t he sustained containment of the COVID -19 pandemic, which has 
been achieved thanks to the work of the country's scientists and medical personnel, and to mitigate 
the economic and social consequences of the pandemic.  
12.11.   As part of the blockade against Cuba, the  restrictive measures imposed by the US 
Government continue to be of an ever -increasing extraterritorial scope.  The US Government 
continues to include Cuban companies and entities connected with trade in arbitrary lists issued by 
the Department of State an d other agencies, which ban natural and legal persons under US 
jurisdiction from maintaining relations with the listed entities.  Companies registered in other 
countries, which are subsidiaries of US companies, are prohibite d by US law from engaging in trad e 
with Cuban companies.  The US Government prohibits entities under its jurisdiction from importing 
Cuban products, including goods from reputed brands in the international rum, tobacco and shellfish 
markets, among others.  US companies that obtain specific licences to export agricultural products 
to Cuba are prohibited by their country's law from offering credit or any type of financing to cover 
these exports.  
12.12.   The application of sanctions by US government agencies on ships involved in the 
transportation of g oods being traded with Cuba is a barrier to Cuban imports and exports.  The 
application of sanctions by the Department of the Treasury and other US government agencies on 
banking and financial entities transacting with Cuba is a barrier to Cuban imports and exports, and 
to those of companies from other countries that are interested in trading with Cuba, which require 
secure banking routes to carry out operations.  All of the above -mentioned measures and others 
restrict the international market spac e that Cuban imports and exports may access.  The restriction 
on international market access for Cuban companies as a result of the US Government's measures 
hampers imports of inputs and equipment that are crucial for making investment in the country for 
its economic development, as well as for the exports resulting from this investment, which is a 
priority in order to increase the country's revenues.  
12.13.   These restrictions also have an impact on the development of foreign investment in Cuba 
and the marketing of  the exports resulting from this investment.  In addition to these limitations, it 
is impossible to use the US dollar in foreign commercial and financial transactions, banking 
operations and signed correspondent agreements have been cancelled, account closu re requests 
have been made by foreign banking entities, foreign banks have refused to transfer funds to or from 
Cuba and to provide other banking services, and Cuban bank transfers have been returned.  Despite 
this situation, as proof of Cuba's firm commitm ent to meet its international financial commitments, 
including those relating to the WTO budget, we have made a significant contribution that has enabled 
the status of our commitments to be updated.  
12.14.   The Chair noted that, as also required by the General Cou ncil Procedures, he requested 
Members and Observers in Categories II and III of the Measures to inform the Secretariat as to 
when their payment of arrears may be expected.  
12.15.   The General Council took note  of the statements  made . 
 
_______________   WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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ANNEX  1 
STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS AT THE INFORMAL HODS MEETING HELD ON 7 JULY 2022  
 
Following the statements of the General Council Chair and the Director -General  at the above -
mentioned meeting, the statements made by Brazil; Botswana; Australia; Jamaica (ACP); Indonesia; 
Cabo Verde; Malaysia; Nicaragua; Cameroon (African Group); Switzerland; Singapore; China; 
Cambodia; Chile; Bangladesh; Mexico; Colombia; European Union; Ecuador; South Africa; Nepal; 
Barbados (CARICOM); Japan; India; Nigeria; Chinese Taipei; Rus sian Federation; Vanuatu (Pacific 
Group); Paraguay; Tunisia; Türki ye; El Salvador; Canada; The Philippines; Antigua and Barbuda 
(OECS); Peru; Zimbabwe; New Zealand; United States; Chad (LDCs); Costa Rica, Plurinational State 
of Bolivia; United Kingdom; Kazakhstan; Egypt; Uganda; Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and 
Panama are included below as part of the Minutes of the General Council meeting.  
 
_______________  
 
 
1. Brazil  
The WTO delivered at MC12. The Ministerial meeting was impor tant for what we managed to  achieve 
collectively: an agreement on fisheries, outcomes on  trips and public health, on food  security, and 
on reform. The Ministerial meeting was also important for what we managed to avoid  backtracking 
on the current  rules of the multilateral trading system, particularly on agriculture.   
 
MC12 closes a cycle. It is now time to repositioning the WTO to look beyond old controversies, old  
issues and old concepts that can no longer lead to consensus.  Post-MC12 is an opportunity to tackle  
how international trade can truly contribute to development, how international trade can  contribute  
to food security and sustainability.   
 
We have now a mandate on reform, a necessity that predates MC12 and that ministers unanimously 
recognized. We welcome the U.S. disposition to address  the current impasse on dispute settlement. 
This is a challenge we need to face collectively in the post -MC12, as we have committed to conduct 
discussions with  a view to having a full and well -functioning dispute sett lement system accessible to 
all Members by 2024. We also need to discuss how negotiations  can effectively deliver, including 
through new and flexible formats of negotiations.  
 
We have also presented a proposal on annual  ministerials, as a way to, among oth ers, increase the 
effectiveness and responsiveness of the WTO.  
 
We need to make the WTO again fit for purpose in trade negotiations and we need to think about 
setting negotiating priorities for MC13. As we move towards  MC13, we need to be guided by the 
same spirit of commitment to multilateralism and constructive solutions that China has shown during 
MC12. Emerging  economies, like Brazil and China, have clearly demonstrated our sense of 
responsibility to the WTO system.  
 
Regarding fisheries subsidies, we ha ve achieved an important and credible outcome regarding IUU 
fishery and overfished stocks, for which we salute once again all the membership and the DG. But 
we still have work to do in the overcapacity and overfishing pillars. In order to effectively fulfil the 
UN and the WTO mandates and to really contribute to the sustainable  development, it is of the 
utmost importance and urgency that Members engage constructively in negotiations to improve the 
Agreement, particularly in  these issues. Brazil remains committed to this initiative and will keep 
engaged in further talks. Last but not least, we urge all Members to promptly ratify the instrument.   
 
On agriculture, we adopted the Decision on the World Food Programme and the Ministerial 
Declaration on  Food Insecurity. However, there was no possible consensus on the next steps towards 
the long -awaited reform of the multilateral rules of agricultural trade.  
 
The lack of a specific outcome on agriculture at MC12 is a result in itself - it marks the end of  a cycle 
and the beginning of a new stage for negotiations.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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The old negotiating architecture and the old concepts inherited from the Doha Round can no longer 
serve as the guiding principles for MC13. We should  not repeat the same mistakes hoping that a 
different  outcome will follow.  
 
Given the evident dissent across the membership on much of the current agricultural agenda, what 
seems clear is that the only point of contact between the  different positions is Article 20 of the AoA 
– and that is the only man date we all need to stick to for a fresh start.  
 
For the coming months, our suggestion is that we take advantage of the clean slate that we have in 
agriculture to reflect on the necessary modernization  of the agricultural negotiation architecture, 
which presupposes the consideration of new formats and topics that are in line with contemporary 
challenges  for agricultural trade, including food security and sustainability. All without losing focus 
on our Article 20 mandate: pursuing conti nuous reform towards  less and less trade distortion and 
protectionism.  
 
This conceptual modernization will also comprehend an assessment of how the two main topics of 
the agricultural negotiations - domestic support, including PSH, and market access - will be dealt 
with. 
 
Brazil is ready to work constructively as we collectively reflect on the future of the WTO and our  
challenges ahead of MC13.  
 
Let me finally thank the DG for her leadership before and during MC12, the role of the DDGs and 
the secretariat.  
2. Botswana  
Director General, GC Chair, Excellencies  and Colleagues . Let me take this opportunity to extend my 
heartfelt gratitude to you all for a successful MC12 and specifically the Director General and the 
Secretariat for the tireless efforts in supportin g us during the Conference. Thanks to you to GC Chair 
Didier Chambovey, for your steady hand in the build up to the conference and your usual quiet magic 
during MC12.   
 
At some point during the week of MC12 it seemed like the conference would not achieve a ny 
outcome; however that did not discourage the members, ably chaired by Kazakhstan , and here I 
must specifically commend my sister Ambassador Zhanar, not to mention our steadfast DG Dr Ngozi 
to persevere. Our gratitude also goes to the Chairpersons and fa cilitators on the various themes for 
their hard work and role in the outcomes we have achieved.  
 
Botswana wishes to echo the sentiments of other delegations who have already taken the floor, to 
welcome the outcomes of MC12, the Ministerial Decisions, Decla rations and the Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies.  
 
After two decades of negotiating the agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, it is worth celebrating that 
we have finally concluded the agreement and should commence work towards continuing discussions 
on the o utstanding issues for additional provisions in preparation for MC13, as per the Ministerial 
Decision.  
 
Excellencies, the role of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in global trade remains pertinent.  Its 
main functions to ensure free and fair trade  flows a re critical, hence it will be important for the 
reforms agenda to be defined and prioritised post MC12 while upholding the core principles of the 
WTO: transparency, openness, relevance and the development dimension.  
 
Botswana is pleased with the Ministeria l Declaration on the Emergency Response to Food Insecurity 
which provides for the establishment of a dedicated work programme on NFIDCs and LDCs, to 
address their specific concerns on food security through the Committee on Agriculture.  
 
We are also please d with the Ministerial Declaration on the WTO Response to the COVID -19 Pandemic 
and Preparedness for Future Pandemics.  
 WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  As a Net Food Importing Developing Country, Botswana has been negatively impacted by the 
pandemic outbreak and the current shortage of food and production inputs.  
 
It is in this regard that we believe that the two declarations will be beneficial to us and will help to 
cushion the looming food insecurity threats posed by the current challenges. Botswana is hopeful 
that WTO members will ta ke immediate action to address food shortages and soaring food prices 
and ensure that the most vulnerable can access emergency food aid as highlighted in the Ministerial 
Decision on WFP food purchases exemption from export prohibitions or restrictions.  
 
We are mindful of the vital role played by agricultural trade in improving food security and the need 
to build up long term resilience of agricultural markets. We would like to also echo what is expressed 
in the decision that Members should take concrete ste ps to facilitate trade and not impose 
unnecessary export restrictions while ensuring transparency in the process.  
 
Excellencies, as we reflect and map a way forward post MC12, I wish to reiterate Botswana belief 
that agriculture is a very important sector for developing countries. It is unfortunate that we could 
not reach an outcome on agriculture, and we wish to implo re the membership to give it a priority 
for a meaningful outcome at MC13.  
 
In relation to the outcome on the TRIPS Agreement, we would like to urge members to collectively 
work around the clock with a view to deliberate and conclude on the extension that will allow the 
production and supply of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics, within the 6 months'  timeline in 
accordance with the Ministerial Decision.  
 
Excellencies, my delegation has noted your reminder and that of others that our modest success at 
MC12 is only the beginning, and that as  members we must put all our efforts into implementing 
these decisions. Many issues remain outstanding and we must put all hands on deck to move 
forward.  
 
My delegation has also noted and associates itself with the obse rvations made with respect to 
improving our preparedness and ensure transparency as well as better communication. This is 
especially important for small delegations such as mine, to avoid a feeling of alienation or 
marginalization from the process.   
 
Excellencies, on that note let me end by pledging my delegation`s commitment and support to the 
work ahead; the implementation of MC12 outcomes and conclusion of the remaining DDA issues. 
We remain committed to the rules -based Multilateral Trading System, that is transparent and 
inclusive. I thank you.  
3. Australia  
Congratulations to all on the success of MC12.  
 
We cannot overstate the importance of what we achieved at this Ministerial for the WTO 's vitality, 
and its standing. The commitment to restore dispute set tlement also gives us new hope on the 
continued authority of global trade law.  
 
The required leadership came from everywhere. It came from the top – from the Director -General, 
from negotiating Chairs, from the Conference Chair, from the General Council Cha ir – and it came 
from non -traditional places. It was Fijian Minister Faiyaz Koya 's passionate appeal on fisheries 
subsidies that galvanised us to save the deal late at night on Thursday 15 June.  His was an 
exceptional contribution.  
 
One lesson we have lear nt is that we must now avoid "all or nothing " Ministerial Conferences. We 
cannot continue to load up these Conferences with too many expectations and high stakes – which 
risks damaging our credibility. No other international organisation holds itself to ac count by a need 
to continually demonstrate it can renew its treaty system every time Ministers gather, so why do 
we? We achieved something of a minor miracle this time on fisheries, but our guess is that this type 
of fully multilateral deal is not easily r eplicable – indeed it has only been achieved twice in two and 
a half decades.  
 WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  So, we must de -dramatize  these Ministerial Conferences. In this context we are considering the idea 
of annual Ministerial Conferences within the frame of how we can de -dramatize  the meetings. Our 
concern is that we do not create undue burdens twice as often as we are now. We are, however, 
keeping an open mind and will continue to reflect on whether the idea of annual meetings allows for 
something of a more routine form of engagem ent. 
 
On rule making the lesson was that: while a minor miracle was achieved on fisheries subsidies, it 
may not be replicable. Neither has such a deal been achievable - aside from once - in the last quarter 
century on agriculture. Threading the interests o f 164 Members through the head of a needle is not  
a realistic ask on a regular basis. Miracles are possible, but we should stop banking on them.  
 
That we could not make progress, again, on agriculture was of course a major disappointment for 
Australia and the Cairns Group, but that has clarified that the current mode of negotiating is simply 
not working. We need a new approach, founded on new political consensus and a new negotiating 
model. The US$817 billion in support going to global agriculture every yea r is a sum several times 
global aid flows. On carbon emissions and climate change, this is also a sum that will prevent us 
reaching net zero by 2050.  
 
So, we do need to act. The Cairns Group is considering options for a retreat in September to reflect 
on the lessons we have learnt and how we can move ahead. We met earlier this week and the strong 
sentiment is that we want to work in partnership with others in the membership who are ready to 
join the effort. Please let us know if you want to come and join p art of our retreat or think together 
about how to move ahead. Our efforts to do this collectively – building bridges across the 
membership – are going to be critical to the prospects of success.  
 
On fisheries subsidies, our own view is that we should all t ake a step back, and reflect, on that issue 
as well. We should think about the best way to avoid painting ourselves in a corner on Article 5 on 
overcapacity and overfishing, and maybe before launching straight in, consider carefully what 
different models m ight be available to us.  
 
Congratulations to all again on this success.  
 
Let's celebrate it.  
 
Let's all own this story and project it with confidence.  
 
And let 's ensure we learn the lessons of this Conference, to ensure we can make best use of our 
next one.  
4. Jamaica  (ACP Group ) 
Thank you, Chair.  The ACP Group wishes to thank you for organizing this meeting. It is an opportune 
time for delegations to exchange notes on the way forward post MC12.  
 
The ACP Group takes the opportunity to thank the Direct or General, the MC12 Chair, all Chairs and 
Facilitators and to commend all Colleagues for remarkable resilience throughout what was an 
arduous Conference.  
 
The ACP Group is currently reflecting on the outcome of MC12. Our intervention today is, therefore, 
preliminary as we await the outcomes of our internal deliberations.  
 
MC12 provided us with the opportunity to reflect on the role of the WTO in trade and development, 
appreciate the importance of Ministerial involvement in the process and, importantly, th e essential 
nature of inclusivity and transparency in the work of the Organization. Though not perfect, we should 
be proud of the outcome of MC12. There were lessons learnt and we have been able to get Ministerial 
mandates on critical issues. There are way s in which we can improve the process for MC 13 and the 
ACP Group would propose that WTO members reflect on this issue.  
 
We are happy to know that the Secretariat has already put in train initiatives to facilitate Members ' 
implementation of the Ministerial  mandates.  
 WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  As it relates it fisheries subsidies, the mandate of the WTO in implementing SDG 14.6 remains work 
in progress. We welcome the agreement on elements such as IUU fishing. While we believe that the 
focus should be placed on securing ratification of the agreement, we should ensure that overcapacity 
and overfishing negotiations are made a priority, as our fisherfolk continue to be the victims of 
overcapacity and overfishing. Agreeing on overcapacity and overfishing disciplines has eluded us for 
decades but we now have an opportunity to conclude these negotiations by MC13.  
 
It would be good to hear about plans within the Secretariat to encourage ratification so that the 
threshold to trigger entry into force can be reached as soon as possible. Further , the NGR should 
reconvene early to have a legal scrubbing of the text in order to address any discrepancy that may 
be within the document. Legal scrubbing does not and should not alter Ministers ' decision but can 
assist in ensuring that the agreement, as a whole, adheres to established legal standards. We would 
also request that Members are apprised of plans for the implementation of Article 7.  
 
Regarding the declaration on the WTO 's response to the pandemic and preparation for future 
pandemics, it is impo rtant that the Chairs of councils, committees and working groups include on 
the agenda of their next meetings a discussion on how their respective bodies will contribute to the 
implementation of the various elements of the declaration.   
 
As it relates to W TO Reform, we should now begin to build -out the various elements which we would 
want to see in a Reform package. We should aim to present a comprehensive package to Ministers 
at MC13. At the very least, Ministers should be presented with a streamlined vert ical text that 
represents an advanced stage of negotiations on the issue. The ACP Group is working on a Reform 
proposal which we hope to share with WTO Members soon.  
 
On agriculture, we are disappointed that MC12 did not agree on a revised work programme f or the 
negotiations. Agriculture is of fundamental importance to the ACP Group. We can start discussions 
on the parameters for outcomes in areas such as PSH, domestic support and SSM. Hopefully we 
would be able to present streamline texts and not only work  programmes at MC13.  
 
We should proceed in a manner that respects the redlines of others and accommodate the interests 
of all Members.  
 
Chair, the food security declaration is very timely. The CoA and other relevant bodies should begin 
discussions on how to implement the declaration on trade on food security. Where collaboration with 
external stakeholders is necessary, we would wish to hear the Secretariat's road map in this regard.  
 
On the issue of process, our Group stands ready to wor k towards solutions for greater clarity, 
transparency and inclusiveness at Ministerial Conferences, with a view to ensuring the participation 
of all members. I thank you, Chair.  
5. Indonesia  
Thank you, Chair, for giving me the floor. First of all, I would lik e to join others in conveying our 
sincere appreciation to Madam Director -General for her tireless efforts and determination that has 
brought us to a successful MC12. I would like to extend our highest appreciation to the Secretariat 
as well who has worked with great dedication and has supported our works through and through.  
 
And, of course, I would also like to congratulate all of us for the outcomes achieved at the MC12, 
which has demonstrated our strong commitment, hard work, and patience to reach conse nsus and 
compromised solutions. These outcomes are indeed the fruits of collective efforts and success.  
 
While MC12 has delivered substantive outcomes on a wide -range of issues, which respond to the 
current challenges... we must now ensure that these outc omes benefit our people at home, are 
workable and implementable, as well as address the challenges faced by Members, particularly 
developing Members and LDCs.  
 
A long list of outcomes are now on the table, such as the Decision on Fisheries Subsidies, Decl aration 
on the Emergency Response to Food Insecurity, the Decision on WFP Exemption, the Declaration on 
the WTO Response to the Pandemic, the Decision on the TRIPS Agreement, and the Work Program 
on Electronic Commerce.    
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  However, we should not be complac ent, and this is indeed the time for deep reflection. While we 
may consider MC12 as a breakthrough, there are many issues that we need to follow up... and others 
need to be reinvigorated, such as agriculture. Undeniably, the real work has just begun.  
 
With that in mind, Indonesia is of the view that we need to seize the momentum and continue our 
work on the following main pillars:  
 
First, on agriculture, we need to improve the negotiations and reframe the narrative to avoid the 
repeated failures of a non -outcome. On this pillar, we have to continue our negotiations to address 
the imbalances in order to create a fair and balanced discipline.  
 
In this regard, I would like to emphasize our continued priority to achieve outcomes on the mandated 
permanent solut ion on Public Stockholding for Food Security Purposes and on Special Safeguard 
Mechanism. Furthermore, the future work on the PSH has to consider the joint proposal by the 
African Group, the ACP, and the G33 co -sponsoring members. In the meantime, other pi llars also 
need to progress, such as domestic support and market access.  
 
Second, on the Decision on the TRIPS Agreement, therapeutics and diagnostics are inseparable parts 
of the countermeasures in the WHO's four -pillar strategy, which also includes vacc ine and health 
protocol. These have been proven to be essential in the prevention, containment, and treatment of 
COVID -19. 
 
Therefore, we should ensure equitable access to countermeasures through the extension of the 
Decision on the TRIPS Agreement to ther apeutics and diagnostics in less than 6 months from now. 
With such a short deadline, we need to begin our work on this issue as soon as possible.  
 
Third, following the decision on the work programme on e -commerce, it is imperative that the 
reinvigoration o f the work program shall be considered as a priority, with the developmental aspect 
at the core of this work. To that end, we need to clarify the scope and definition of the moratorium 
on customs duties... and have a clear understanding on the longstanding  impact of the moratorium, 
particularly to the developing countries, that has lasted for 24 years.  
 
Fourth, on the Decision on Fisheries Subsidies, we need to continue our work to close the gaps on 
the remaining key issues, such as disciplining harmful subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and 
overfishing, while including appropriate and effective sp ecial and differential treatment for 
developing Members and LDCs, to achieve a comprehensive agreement.  
 
Lastly, on the WTO Reform, Indonesia is of the view that the ongoing momentum should be 
maintained by Members to focus on the efforts to revive the pr oper functioning of all WTO pillars, 
particularly in the dispute settlement system. Restoring the WTO two -tier dispute settlement system 
is important to maintain the relevance of the rules -based multilateral trading system.  
 
In conclusion, Chair, we would  be remiss should we stop our efforts after achieving the "Geneva 
Package ". We need to continue and redouble our efforts in concluding the remaining works and 
resolve the unfinished business.  
 
We should always bear in our mind that multilateralism under th e WTO should prevail to demonstrate 
the relevance and the credibility of this Organization to the world. Developmental issues and S&DT 
for developing members and LDCs should also always be at the heart of this organization. Meanwhile, 
equal access, inclusi vity, and transparency should also be maintained in the negotiations, where all 
Members are involved and no one is left out in the decision -making processes.  
 
And with that, I will stop here, Chair. Let me conclude by reiterating Indonesia 's full commitmen t to 
continue the work on all issues and we stand ready to engage with all Members to advance the 
negotiations.  Thank you, Chair.  
6. Cabo Verde  
My delegation would also like to echo the statement made by the ACP group and the statement that 
is to be made by o ur colleague from Cameroon on behalf of the African Group. I would like also to 
echo the words of those who have taken the floor before me to express our sincere gratitude to you 
and all the Ministers and stakeholders for the success of MC12.  This really w as a phenomenal WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  ministerial conference.  We are very grateful for your leadership and your energy which were 
unfettered. Without you none of this would have been possible so thank you very much.  The 
agreement on fisheries subsidies is one of the outcomes th at will make a positive contribution to 
sustained growth for smaller island developing countries such as mine. I would like to take this 
opportunity to congratulate Ambassador Wills for the excellent work that he did in that regard and 
for all of his effor ts. As we work together on long -standing areas of work and as we look to the 13th 
Ministerial Conference, particularly agricultural trade, we feel we need to keep our eyes fixed on 
trust and good faith in our negotiations. We remain attached to the multila teral trading system and 
its importance and we are looking forward to future victories here at the WTO. You can count on us 
to pursue our work constructively.  
7. Malaysia  
Thank you, Madam Chair,  Malaysia wishes to express our appreciation to the Government o f 
Kazakhstan and Switzerland as well as the WTO Secretariat for successfully hosting the Twelfth WTO 
Ministerial Conference (MC12). We also wish to commend the Director -General; General Council 
Chair; Conference Chair; and Vice -Chairs for their sterling le adership in stewarding MC12 to success.  
 
At a time when global solutions are critical, we have shown the world that WTO members can come 
together to address global problems and deliver the Geneva Package which contains a series of 
decisions on fisheries su bsidies and WTO response to emergencies, among others, which 
demonstrates the remarkable commitment, tenacity, and flexibility of all members in ensuring 
acceptable outcomes are achieved.  
 
For post -MC12, let us continue to work together to deliver on what  has been agreed by our Ministers 
three (3) weeks ago.  
 
On the process, we wish to share our views on MC12 arrangements, and the lessons learned – or 
scope for improvements – as you said this afternoon, in preparation for the MC13:  
 
On transparency, it is  a point of concern where Members did not have sufficient opportunity to review 
the draft agreement/texts prior to adoption. The outcomes of small group discussions were not 
shared and some decisions were made through small group discussions. Moving forwar d, we would 
like to see an open, transparent, and inclusive negotiation process for all members.  
 
On MC12 timetable, the list of thematic sessions and list of Ministers/facilitators should be shared in 
advance, i.e. two weeks ahead not on the day of the co nference (12th of June). This will facilitate 
our Capital in managing our Minister 's participation.  
 
On a final note, Malaysia will continue to support the multilateral trading system. Our collective 
undertaking at MC12 has brought back WTO on the path of  being relevant. We must join hands in 
driving the recovery process towards a sustainable and resilient global economy. Thank you, Madam 
Chair.  
8. Nicaragua  
Mr Didier Chambovey, Chair of the General Council, Dr  Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, Director -General of the 
WTO, dear colleagues, heads of delegation, I extend fraternal greetings from the Government of 
National Reconciliation and Unity and the people of Nicaragua.  
 
My delegation is thankful for this meeting and greatly appreciates the opportunity to deliver our 
assessment of how the negotiations unfolded during the Twelfth Ministerial Conference of the WTO.  
 
The international community counted MC12 as a success. However, we all know that there are facts 
of which only the Members of this Organization a re aware and which must be expressed in order to 
be corrected, otherwise they will become customary. In my country, we have a saying that custom 
makes law.  
 
Our assessment of MC12 is that it was exclusive. The decisions were made by the larger Members 
and there was no opportunity to examine the texts or state our position with regard to the 
agreements reached.  
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  Furthermore, the lack of transparency was cause for concern. For example, significant amendments 
were made to the text of the Agreement on Fisheries  Subsidies initially presented at the beginning 
of MC12, but there is no official channel of communication by which to inform Members excluded 
from the negotiations of such amendments in a timely manner. The changes were notified at 
inappropriate hours and  there was no time to consult our capitals.  
 
Furthermore, the lack of organization was obvious, as the logistical information provided in advance 
was a little confusing and time was badly managed. We see the extension of the Ministerial 
Conference as disre spectful to the delegations. I should stress that delegations have full schedules 
and other important matters to attend to for our countries. We therefore suggest loosening the 
schedule, given the risk of delays in the negotiations.  
 
We are open to proposa ls for improving this Organization that offer transparency and are more 
inclusive of all Members, especially small economies like our own.  
 
Our future work should focus on extending the Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS Agreement, reached 
at MC12, to metho ds for diagnosing and treating COVID -19, moving forward in discussions on the 
work programmes established at MC12, and achieving concrete results agriculture that would 
address the problem of food security among disadvantaged populations.  
 
Thank you very m uch. 
9. Cameroon  (African Group ) 
Chair of the General Council, Director -General. I am making this statement on behalf of the 
Ambassador of Cameroon who is the Coordinator of the African Group and who has had a last-minute  
commitment elsewhere. At this first meeting after MC12 we would lik e to thank the DG, the Chair of 
the General Council, the Chair of the Conference, the Vice -Chairs, the Facilitators, the Swiss 
Government and all those who worked tirelessly on the side -lines to ensure that MC12 was such a 
historic success. Thanks to the D G's leadership the WTO Members were able to exceed expectations 
and rise above the challenges and agree on outcomes that reflected the priorities of all Members.  
MC12 has breathed new impetus and a new sense of trust and collegiality here at the WTO. In li ght 
of that , the African Group would like to stress that the outcomes of MC12 must be implemented in 
a way that is satisfactory to all. We don't have much time so we won't go into all the details of the 
MC12 outcomes,  but we would like to stress five key a reas that in our opinion should receive the 
highest level of priority in WTO work over the second half of this year.  
 
TRIPS Waivers - on the Ministerial Decision on the TRIPS agreement we feel that the discussion 
should begin before the summer break and b e continued immediately after that break so that we 
can take a decision about the extension of the decision relating to COVID -19 by the end of November 
2022.  
 
On agriculture our group will continue to stress the pivotal importance of agriculture for our 
economies. It is to be regretted that we have not achieved outcomes on public stockholding for food 
security purposes and cotton at MC12, or on domestic support. These are key elements for our group 
and we will continue to strive for outcomes on those multi lateral outcomes that will enable us to 
remedy the existing problems and open up a political space to free up positive capacity for developing 
countries and new economic opportunities for small scale agricultural players. We will also look at 
the way forwa rd and identify priorities for MC13 because these issues really do need to be key 
elements of our work.  
 
WTO reform – where WTO reform is concerned the African Group congratulates everyone on 
beginning a process that will look towards reforming the WTO.  We reiterate that our opinion is that 
the WTO reform process should be open and representative of all WTO Members. That will ensure 
that the views and concerns of all Members, including developing and least developed countries will 
be duly taken into accoun t and we continue to be determined to establish a fully operational dispute 
settlement system by 2024. Where development is concerned, despite the time and significant 
efforts made by the G90 we have made no significant progress despite the significant com mitments 
of our partners as well so we would call upon all WTO Members to engage in good faith with that 
process, with those negotiations and with the discussions on that area as we prepare for MC13.   
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  Fisheries subsidies, the African Group congratulates W TO Members on the agreement reached on 
fisheries subsidies which was adopted at MC12. We call upon the Members to complete their 
ratification processes so that the agreement can enter into force and so that the disciplines on which 
we agreed will continue and begin to apply and contribute effectively to the achievement of SDG 
14.6.  We also agree that the work on various aspects of the disciplines such as on overcapacity and 
overfishing should begin without undue delay.  The text that we have agreed upon will  be a good 
basis for discussion. I would like to conclude by reiterating our commitment to the multilateral 
trading system and to ensuring that its fair, transparent and inclusive which supports our 
development objective.  
10. Switzerland  
Switzerland shares th e positive feelings expressed in this room. Beyond the specific results, the 
success of MC12 lies in the fact that Members were able to find the path to compromise. This is an 
encouraging signal and we hope that this spirit will continue, without which it will be difficult to make 
further progress. With regard to improving the flow of information at Ministerial Conferences, we are 
pleased to take notice of the catalogue of measures developed by the Secretariat. Switzerland will 
continue to be committed to t ransparent and inclusive processes in the WTO, and we are of course 
ready to continue the reflection that you have started on the Ministerial Conferences. At MC12, the 
WTO was able to give an emergency response to the global food crisis. This response addr esses the 
importance of minimising short -term trade distortions; it recognize s the complexity of ensuring 
global food security and that we need a holistic approach. In order to ensure long -term food security, 
elements such as sustainable agricultural pract ices and food systems must be part of our 
deliberations. My delegation is ready to engage constructively in order to achieve this common goal, 
and takes note of your suggestion to discuss this topic at a retreat. As regards the response to the 
pandemic, th is is holistic and includes elements on trade -related aspects as well as on intellectual 
property. This is an important sign of the Organisation's relevance and capacity to respond to crises. 
Switzerland will continue to actively contribute to the various follow -up discussions, based on the 
lessons learned and challenges encountered during the COVID -19 pandemic. Finally, Members gave 
themselves a mandate during this Ministerial Conference to start a WTO reform process. Switzerland 
welcomes this outcome and calls for work on each of the organisation's functions and in particular 
on dispute settlement. While MC12 has delivered some results, there are still many areas in which 
Switzerland would like to see progress. Among these, let me mention trade in services . This area of 
international trade has great potential for growth and can contribute to sustainable development. 
We also hope that the time available between now and the next Ministerial Conference will allow us 
to continue to deepen our exchanges on elect ronic commerce. This includes the moratorium on 
electronic transmissions, which represents a significant contribution by the WTO to the governance 
of digital trade.  
11. Singapore  
Thank you, Director -General,  for calling us together this afternoon for this meeting. The positive 
outcome of MC12 has given the WTO a shot in the arm and Singapore commends your leadership 
as well as the efforts of the Chairs, Facilitators, the Secretariat as well as each and every Member 
in this room. Indeed,  the MC12 deliverables were unexpected but very much welcomed. While we 
celebrate MC12 it is equally, if not more important, to focus on the road ahead. Moving forward, the 
challenges confronting the WTO remain formidable,  but w e can draw on the lessons that we have 
learnt from MC12. Allow me to share three broad suggestions as we move forward.  
 
First, Members must think differently. We must approach MC's with a new mindset that does not 
expect every MC to be a big bang event. R ather MC's should become regularised as check points for 
Ministers to take stock of negotiations and provide political guidance. But I recognize  that this is 
easier said than done because it involves breaking away from a long-held mindset. To avoid eating 
cold sandwiches for dinner and toiling overnight and for the sake of our own physical and mental 
well-being we must avoid another drama at MC13.  
 
Second, Members need to work differently. What this means is that all of us in Geneva must gear 
our work to a chieve results and outcomes. Hence the TNC, the General Council and the various 
committees must move beyond being platforms for posturing or staking out positions. We should 
also think out of the box and look ahead rather than constantly looking into the r ear mirror. On some 
issues such as WTO reform we may even need to press the reset button and start with a clean slate.  
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  Third, Members need to act differently. Many of us have proclaimed our commitment to support the 
WTO and multilateralism. We must now w alk the talk by committing to negotiate seriously, in good 
faith and with an eye to securing win -win outcomes that serve both our national interests as well as 
the interests of the WTO. In other words, we must not insist that it is my way or the highway. I n 
your opening remarks at MC12 you had invoked Martin Luther -King junior and said "We may have 
all come in different ships,  but we are in the same boat now. Either we go up together or we go 
down together". Thankfully we have avoided going down together in  MC12. The challenge before us 
is to build on the momentum to further steady the ship and be better prepared for the next storm.  
Thank you.  
12. China  
MC12 is a success well beyond our expectations. It demonstrates that the WTO can still deliver and 
respond to  global challenges as long as we uphold the spirit of solidarity and cooperation. China 
would like to pay special tribute to DG's strong leadership in carrying us forward before and 
throughout MC12. We also appreciate all Chairs, Facilitators, Secretariat and Members for their 
tremendous efforts and contribution. MC12 has provided a strong impetus for future work. We must 
keep working, breathing the wind and the waves with the current strong momentum to achieve a 
successful MC13. We could continue to delive r outcomes with the same spirit of solidarity and 
cooperation. However, we have to realize that the way forward could still be bumpy and rocky. In 
order to move forward we have to be pragmatic, innovative and open -minded.  
 
First, we must ensure the full implementation of the MC12 outcomes, translating the goodwill and 
support  at MC12 into concrete actions. This work should be organized and structured, relevant 
Councils or Committees could make their own plans in accordance w ith the ministerial outcomes.  
 
Second, for those long -standing controversial issues, we have to think out of the box and explore 
new ways forward , for instance on agriculture. China supports DG's idea of having a dedicated retreat 
to brainstorm on the way  forward rather than repeating the same failure again and again with the 
existing way.  
 
On fisheries subsidies, all the remaining issues are the hardest nuts to crack. We have tried many 
ways on OCOF but none work. Members are encouraged to soberly reflec t on the current deadlock 
and think of possible ways out creatively. In the meantime, early ratification of the agreement will 
provide the impetus for Members to negotiate on the remaining challenge issues.  
 
Third, let us remain open minded on WTO reform. As Members have carefully deliberated  every word 
in the negotiation of the reform paragraph , the future reform progress is destined to be more 
challenging. In order to move forward , there should be open -minded brainstorming based on some 
common understandi ngs which China believes are another three points. First, the basic principles of 
the WTO such as MFN and consensus -based  decision -making should be well preserved. Second, 
approaches should be explored to ensure the WTO's well -functioning and relevance. La st but not 
least, development issues should always be an essential and integral part of the future reform 
process. I will stop here.  
13. Cambodia  
Thank you, Director -General. Firstly,  I would like to align with the statements to be made by Chad 
on behalf of th e LDC Group. I would like to join others in congratulating you, the MC Chair and the 
whole of the Kazakhstan delegation, the GC Chair, all the Chairs and Facilitators and the Secretariat 
for the outcomes that we have achieved at MC12 and like my Minister h ad stated we must use MC12 
to strengthen multilateralism at the WTO and use this opportunity for consensus building to deliver 
results that address issues faced by all concerned and for the benefits of everyone and we surely 
did that by delivering multilat eral outcomes of global significance and impact and I join others in 
applauding this great achievement. On personal and professional level,  I will look back fondly at 
MC12 and the time that we all spent waiting with concerns, with anticipation and trepidat ion to hear 
the updates on the negotiations and the final outcomes. I can remember fondly the atmosphere 
outside the building by the lake. It was like a festival out there and fortunately the result at the end 
justified this festivity atmosphere.  
 
Chair, I would like to join others as well in commenting briefly on the process in terms of 
transparency and inclusiveness which I also think that it could have been much better. For much of WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  the MC12 we were left in  the dark over what is going on in the negotiati on rooms. We need to have 
representations in all negotiation issues to report back to the Members so that they are made aware 
of what is going on and not be surprised on the outcomes. We have some time before MC13 so let  
us take this time to reflect and fi nd ways to make future Ministerial Conferences more organised, 
more transparent and more inclusive.  
 
Before I conclude, I would like to outline that one important outcome for the LDCs was not able to 
be achieved at MC12 which is the smooth graduation for Members graduating from the LDC status. 
I would like to thank all Members who worked constructively with us prior and throughout the MC12 
to get this issue over the line and I look forward to your continued support to deliver this agenda 
item at MC13. I lo ok forward to you also, Mme DG and GC Chair for your continued support for the 
LDC Group in this endeavour. On other equally important issues including agriculture, fisheries, WTO 
reform and the pandemic response, the food insecurity response and others we  will continue to be 
constructive in our engagement and implementation. Thank you.  
14. Chile  
This is the first Heads of Delegation meeting in which I am participating as the Permanent 
Representative of Chile to the WTO. I am very pleased that this coincides w ith the first HODs meeting 
that has been held since the 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12), precisely with the objective of 
reflecting on the results of MC12 and addressing the Organization's future work. I had the great 
honour to be part of my country's d elegation that participated in the Ministerial Conference and so 
I was able to witness the development of the negotiations and activities that took place there.  
 
First, as previous speakers have done, I would like to acknowledge the results achieved in a c omplex 
economic and political context, marked not only by overlapping, inter -related major challenges but 
also by scepticism. I would like to congratulate the Members and the chairs and facilitators of the 
various processes – a number of them distinguished  representatives from the Latin American and 
Caribbean region, to which Chile belongs – and also the Secretariat and the Director -General for their 
leadership. It has been demonstrated that it is possible to achieve results when work is done with 
pragmatis m and flexibility in the pursuit of common interests.  
 
The Ministerial Conference and the Geneva Package represent an important and positive step for the 
WTO and for a multilateral trading system based on clear, transparent and non-discriminatory rules, 
that ensures stability and predictability in international trade, as a key promoter for inclusive and 
sustainable development. My country is fully committed to all of this.  
 
We must now turn our attention to the path set out by th e Conference, taking advantage of the 
momentum created by the agreements reached, and we must also reflect on the challenges ahead.  
 
First, we should focus on the implementation of what was agreed and ensure that it can be 
implemented as expeditiously as p ossible. As far as fisheries subsidies  are concerned, we must 
continue the work to achieve an ambitious result on the outstanding disciplines, including overfishing 
and overcapacity. To this end, we need to reflect on the lessons of the Ministerial Conference, as 
there is now greater urgency f or us to achieve a result in this area.  
 
Furthermore, the "Ministerial Declaration on the WTO response to the COVID -19 pandemic and 
preparedness for future pandemics" has established a route for work within this Organization, in 
which we hope that discussi ons will have a pragmatic and evidence -based approach. Certainly,  Chile 
reiterates its commitment to working on this subject constructively, and we remain convinced that 
a holistic response is the best.  
 
In addition, we must continue working on an effectiv e and timely response to the global food 
security  crisis, which is aggravated by climate change, to the effects of the COVID -19 pandemic 
and to the conflict in Ukraine. Agri -food trade is key to addressing this challenge, and we must not 
forget that it aff ects especially the most vulnerable. As a country we are fully committed in this 
regard.  
 
Second, we already need to resume our efforts relating to the future work of the Organization, 
recognizing that there is much to do in short periods of time:  
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  • There i s still a need to move forward on the long -awaited reform programme in 
agriculture ; 
• Completing the fisheries subsidies  agreement;  
• Starting the implementation of the work plan on sanitary and phytosanitary 
measures  launched in the recent Ministerial Declara tion, which is essential for net food 
exporters such as my country;  
• Continuing the work programme on electronic commerce, and in particular on the 
moratorium, as well as work in relation to services , among other things;  
• It is also important that we agree h ow we are going to address the trade -related aspects 
of key issues for our societies today such as the response to climate change, the 
sustainability of the oceans, and the inclusion of MSMEs and women. As I said before, 
this is about achieving trade that makes a decisive contribution to sustainable and 
inclusive development.  
The future work of this Organization should also consider moving forward in the joint initiatives, in 
which we are interested in remaining very active as a country and which we regard as being 
complementary to the multilateral process.  
 
Likewise, WTO reform  should be at the heart of forthcoming discussions, and it is therefore essential 
to ensure that this work is well structured. The overall impact and scope of current challenges call 
for an Organization that is capable of responding appropriately. This requires the optimum 
functioning of all its facets, including an operational dispute settlement body that is accessible to all 
Members.  Thank you.  
15. Bangladesh  
Thank you, Mme. Director Gen eral. First of all, let me align my statement with that to be delivered 
by Chad on behalf of LDCs. I would like to join other colleagues in congratulating you, DG Dr Ngozi 
and her full team, the GC Chair Amb. Chambovey, the Government of Kazakhstan and the  
Government of the Swiss Federation for successfully holding the much -awaited MC -12 and delivering 
some concrete results. This MC proved that commitment, professional skills, art of compromise and 
above all, appropriate political guidance of our Ministers can make impossible possible. With all 
members, Bangladesh shares the joy of WTO 's collective success: that WTO still can deliver, and 
that this multilateral organization is still relevant. As we all know, we have still some unfinished jobs 
that we would n eed to complete within stipulated time. We should reenergize ourselves to 
accomplish the remaining works riding on the momentum already generated.  
 
Mme DG, as we celebrate the success, we also have some issues that some colleagues have already 
highlighted. I start first with one logistic issue. During the extended days of the MC -12, many LDC 
Ministers had to leave Geneva, as they were sponsored by WTO Fund and changing the flights and 
accommodations were difficult. As we all know, Key decisions were made on 16 June and in the early 
hours of 17 June. Many of our Ministers could not be present. The relevant office of WTO may keep 
this in mind while arranging travels in future.  
 
Secondly, the issue of transparency and inclusiveness, which has also been mentioned by a number 
of delegations. As has been said, for many critical decisions, general membership were not given 
opportunity to see the agreed documents: the decisions were ma de directly through small groups 
or the green room process with selected Members. This was frustrating for many of us who did not 
have the privilege to be in the green room process.  
 
Thirdly, we had only one LDC -specific submission for this MC. It was a n on-binding decision on LDC 
Graduation. We lowered our expectation, to the level of best endeavour  effort, to provide comfort 
to delegations. Yet, a decision eluded us. This MC concluded without any LDC specific outcome.  
 
Fourthly, as a Group, there is a f eeling that the LDC group was not treated fairly during the informals. 
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  on our proposal on graduation, even till the very last moment, when most of the othe r issues were 
settled, but we were ignored. Obviously, the LDC group felt left out.  
 
Needless to say, we learnt many lessons, which will help us going forward. We are still optimistic. 
We want to believe that integrating the LDCs in the International Trade  is still one of the priorities 
of the WTO.  On our part, we will continue to engage with other members of WTO to contribute to 
the works of this body for a better outcome in future, as we focus on the modalities of implementing 
the agreed outcomes of this MC. Thanks for your kind attention.  
16. Mexico  
I would like to commend and thank the DG, the Chair of the General Council, the DDGs and the 
Facilitators for their leadership and tenacity in ensuring a successful MC12. I would also like to thank 
the Secretaria t for its outstanding support, which reaffirms once again that the WTO has one of the 
best teams on the multilateral stage. The Secretariat is extremely professional and works very 
effectively.  
 
The outcomes of MC12 clearly exceeded even the most optimisti c scenario and have given a boost 
to the Organization's credibility. Let us use this impetus sensibly, and remain objective when looking 
at the size of what was achieved. We know there is still a lot to do, and must fight off complacency 
and work effective ly to implement and follow up on what has recently been agreed. The challenges 
that lie ahead also require a renewed spirit of cooperation and creativity.  
 
The problems mentioned by certain Members regarding insufficient communication and transparency 
during the Ministerial must be addressed so as to minimize such issues in the future and help ensure 
a more satisfactory process for the membership in general from now on.  
 
I agree with the General Council Chair and a number of colleagues in that it would be a ppropriate 
to design a work programme. The sequencing in this programme would be very important. Work on 
certain issues could begin without delay, while others would require prior deliberation in order to 
steer the discussions well away from any dead ends.  
 
Regarding WTO reform, it would be advisable to resume the consideration of this issue with fresh 
eyes, and avoid getting bogged down in previous proposals that did not gain much traction.  
 
As regards the discussion on the moratorium on electronic transmi ssions, it is important not to fall 
back on the worn -out and polarizing monologues that have been circulating for more than two years. 
Let us hear what the true experts have to say; a serious and reliable analysis will help ensure that 
a reasonable decisio n is eventually taken regarding this issue of such importance.  
 
As the DG said, agriculture requires special consideration, new creativity in the negotiations and a 
generous amount of political will. Careful thought must be given to which path we decide to  take. 
The proposal to hold retreats to reconsider the issue and process seems very reasonable to me. 
Perhaps we will progress more rapidly if some negotiators do not return from the retreat.  
 
While much was clearly achieved in the area of fisheries subsid ies at MC12, it is important to 
recognize that the outstanding issue of overcapacity and overfishing is a no less important challenge. 
Creativity and political will be vital to address that challenge.  
 
We will keep a close eye on the consultations held by the General Council Chair and the various WTO 
bodies involved in organizing future work, and we reiterate Mexico's willingness to contribute in any 
way it can to the continuing efforts to strengthen the relevance of the WTO and uphold the mandate 
entrusted  to the Organization as the custodian of the multilateral trading system.  
 
Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome our colleague from Chile. I wish them every 
success in their new role in the Organization.  Thank you very much, Director -General.  
17. Colombia  
Thank you, Mr Chair and Madam Director -General,  Mr Chair, we should not be shy about 
congratulating ourselves on the outcomes achieved: a multilateral agreement on fisheries subsidies, 
a key and difficult decision on the waiver, accompanied by a cross -cutting work mandate on the WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  response to the pandemic, the two moratoriums, and mandates expressly on the food crisis, among 
other important decisions and declarations. The WTO has regained its position in global discussions, 
and we s hould be happy about this; we should also build on and strengthen this momentum.  
 
There are two messages I would like to convey on the next steps:  
 
On the one hand, there are several actions and mandates arising from MC12 that the membership 
must carry ou t. I do not want to go into detail on each of them, so I will focus on one action that is 
essential from Colombia's point of view, and which is also an individual action for each Member: 
Colombia would like to encourage all Members to deposit the instrumen t of acceptance of the 
Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies promptly. Together with Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Guatemala, 
Peru and Uruguay, we issued a call to this effect last week at the United Nations Ocean Conference, 
and we encourage other Members to join us or to promote domestic actions along the same lines as 
soon as possible.  
 
Without going into the other specific actions or mandates, the second message I would like to share 
is that we need to reflect on how we work in this Organization. We must h ave a moment of 
introspection and start thinking about new ways of working, new types of processes, new levels of 
discussion, using available technology to facilitate discussions and decision -making – in other words, 
we must be prepared to work differently . Our processes, which are for the most part static, are still 
bound to a context that has not changed for several decades. And I must say that they are mostly 
tied to the past from a mental point of view, from a working culture point of view; not legally or 
statutorily. The world has changed, and we must change with it. We cannot continue to work in the 
same way, expecting different outcomes. The change must not only be formal or on paper; the 
change required must also be a change in mentality.  
 
MC12 was a resounding success, but this was an exception; it will be difficult to repeat this feat if 
we do not adjust to a new reality. Let us build on this success; let us use this momentum to progress. 
Colombia is ready.  
 
Before I conclude, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all Members on the progress 
made at MC12, and also to congratulate the Chair of the Ministerial Conference (through the 
delegation of Kazakhstan), the Chair of the General Council, Ambassador Didier Chambovey, and, 
of cours e, Director -General Dr Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala – to thank all of you for your outstanding work 
and unquestionable leadership. Thank you, Mr Chair.  
18. European Union  
The fisheries subsidies agreement is a major achievement  and we welcome it fully  as its shows that  
the WTO multilateral negotiating arm can deliver meaningful results, and particularly such that relate 
to sustainability , which is new for this Organization . We encourage all WTO Members to swiftly 
complete their internal ratification procedures so the ag reement can enter into force as soon as 
possible.  
 
We would strongly advise against any reopening of the text. The Ministerial Decision on this was 
explicit in launching the process of ratification of this text by Members. Unlike in the first Ministerial 
decision for the TFA, there is no legal revision foreseen in the MC12 decision. So, while there should 
be no change to the agreed English text, we could agree to a targeted process on the translated 
versions, but this should not delay the process of gettin g this deal on the books as  soon as possible . 
 
The EU is ready to engage on the additional provisions on overcapacity and overfishing and related 
special and differential treatment elements so the WTO can deliver on the full SDG 14.6 by MC13.   
 
On reform, the decision at MC12 to give priority to WTO reform is a historic opportunity to revitalize 
the trading system. We need to hear and discuss the views of all Members and identify a way forward 
that better reinforces the organisations. Going forward, we prob ably need to disaggregate the 
individual components of reform: the monitoring and deliberating function, the negotiating function, 
and the dispute settlement where we have agreed that a fully functioning disputed settlement 
system should be in place by 202 4. The EU intends to participate in deliberations with an open mind 
to ensure that the reforms agreed are both meaningful and respond to the expectations of the broad 
membership. It will be important to deliver concrete improvements by MC13.  
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  On agricultur e, we support the need for a new approach. Further reform is needed,  and members 
need to agree on new ways to achieved this. The issues of the reduction of trade -distorting domestic 
support, of transparency across all the agricultural pillars and a permane nt solution on Public 
Stockholding (PSH) programmes have to be seen as priorities in the run to MC13. Early and better 
engagement from Members is so much needed.  
 
On IP, it would be important to decide on the modalities for the discussion on therapeutics a nd 
diagnostics as soon as possible.  
 
And finally, on e -commerce, we need to use more the e -commerce work programme to engage in 
discussions on trade -related aspects of digital transformation and its opportunities for our 
economies, particularly developing and LDCs. We also need to discuss the role of the e -commerce 
moratorium in the system and make sure to agree on a ministerial decision on the moratorium and 
the work programme well in advance to MC13, as this is crucial for business predictability. This is sue 
is of systemic importance for the organisations and its ability to deliver results for businesses in the 
21st century.  
19. Ecuador  
It is a pleasure to be at this meeting as an opportunity to think collectively about the outcomes of 
MC12 and begin a debate about the future work of this organisation based on those outcomes. I 
would like to reiterate that my country welcomes the agreements reached. We feel that the outcomes 
are positive because they tackle pressing matters at the current time our Organi sation has indeed 
been able to reach agreements on food security , the World Food Programme, responses to COVID -
19 vaccines and we have adopted the Ministerial Agreement with a view to looking towards WTO 
reform in an inclusive , open and transparent way. We  feel that it is very important in the WTO's 
work to make a link between trade and environmental crises as well as the role of women in work 
without overlooking the positive aspects of what has been achieved,  we observe that due to the 
dynamic of work and how it is done in our organisation we took too long to take a stance on COVID -
19 and the WTO's response to the pandemic generally. In any case we trust that in the future we 
will be effective in implementing the agreements reached and we will adjust to cir cumstances as 
required and that we will work together and constructively to bring solutions to the problems that 
are undoubtedly affecting the entire planet. As was said a few moments ago by the Chair of the GC 
and the Director -General , the Members will ne ed to begin working on the various commitments that 
were made in statements, declarations and outcome documents as well as on fisheries subsidies 
which is a major forward step following years of negotiations. My dear colleague and friend 
Ambassador Wills d eserves special congratulations having delivered that outcome. Chair , Director -
General , we should pay attention to all the items within the agreements that were reached at MC12 
so that nothing is left behind. They respond to what is being called "a package " emerging from the 
MC12 and their implementation should also be tackled holistically. I thank the Secretariat for the 
document that is being distributed in the room on implementation of the mandates emerging from 
MC12. I have not yet had an opportunity to  review that in detail. I have only done so quickly but we 
will submit our comments to the Secretariat in due course.  
 
Beyond the mandate emerging from MC12 , I would like to observe that although agreements were  
not reached on a number of issues around ag riculture, which we regret, Ecuador feels that because 
of that our Organisation should resume its work with those goals in mind. We welcome the Director -
General's proposal to have a retreat that would enable us to inject new dynamism into those specific 
discussions and avoid the traps that we fell into in the past.  I don't need to make clear how important 
agricultural trade is for our countries' economies and societies, and particularly for developing 
countries. A number of Latin American countries put out a statement on trade in agriculture during 
MC12 and that statement sought to put forward a proactive approach based on the principles that 
govern this organisations work. We put out that statement based on the needs of a number of our 
countries to be able to ensure predictability in that trade.  
 
I would also like to state that based on the experience of MC12 my delegation feels that it is urgent 
that we review the way in which working procedures function in this house at that type of meeting. 
I thank the D irector -General for having referred to that in her opening statement this afternoon. In 
all multilateral fora it is quite natural for there to be informal meetings between Members who are 
particularly interested in certain negotiations. That is a positive way of working if it speeds work up. 
However, there does need to be timely information about how such meetings are taking place when 
they occur at such a major conference and when proposals concern all the Members of the WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  Organisation. I am sure that any co nfusion that took place was the result of the complexity of the 
negotiations and the lack of time available,  but we do need to ensure transparency for all Members 
because due information is a pillar for decision making if Members are to make those decision s in 
an informed manner. With a view to the future we need to take the steps that the Director -General 
mentioned as they emerge from the Members ideas and from the contributions and implementation 
work done by the Secretariat. We need to take specific step s to organise our work to publish 
schedules for meetings, to facilitate work on particular issues, to distribute working documents in a 
timely fashion and particularly documents that need to be approved because those documents have 
to be given to the Membe rs so that internal consultations can take place before commitments are 
taken. That would avoid confusion and it would enable us to adhere to the principles of multilateral 
management and it would strengthen the effectiveness of decision -making in this hou se. I conclude 
by welcoming the new Permanent Representative of Chile I wish her every success in her new role 
and we stand willing to work closely with her.  
20. South Africa  
Thank you Chair for giving me the floor. South Africa associates itself with the sta tement delivered 
by Cameroon on behalf of the Africa Group. South Africa would like to join others in commending 
the membership for reaching 10 multilateral outcomes which is unprecedented since the Uruguay 
Round. The role of the DG cannot be overstated an d we acknowledge the role she played. With 
regard to process, the membership should collectively reflect on how to improve the inclusiveness 
and transparency of discussions. While there is cause to celebrate collective achievements of MC12, 
the membership must build on these outcomes. I would like to offer my delegation 's perspective on 
some of the key aspects to be addressed going forward. TRIPS: The WTO Ministerial Decision on the 
TRIPS Agreement has added to the toolkit of policy options available to Mem bers as they seek to 
facilitate the production and supply of COVID -19 health products. These efforts remain incomplete 
in the absence of therapeutics and diagnostics being included in the scope of the Decision. Therefore, 
the Ministerial mandate in paragra ph must be fulfilled by 17 December. To this end, the cosponsors 
of the TRIPS Waiver proposal in IP/C/W/669 Rev.1 have submitted RD/IP/49 which sets out reasons 
why therapeutics and diagnostics are important to comprehensively address the COVID -19 
pandemic . As the highest decision -making  body between conferences, the GC should take up the 
paragraph 8 mandate as a standing item on its agenda in line with existing practice and deliver on 
the mandate by the December GC meeting. Linked to this is the mandate in  paras 23 and 24 of the 
of the Ministerial Declaration on the COVID -19 Pandemic and Preparedness for Future Pandemics. 
This work must be carried out in all relevant committees including the TRIPS Council. Fisheries: On 
fisheries, the Agreement requires a p rocess of technical and linguistic legal scrubbing to be 
conducted as soon as possible. This is necessary to provide Members with the necessary comfort to 
bring the Agreement into force through the requisite ratifications. The work on OCOF is crucial in 
order to fully address the 14.6 mandate. Accordingly, S&D in this pillar must address the needs of 
all developing countries Agriculture: On Agriculture, the membership must centre it 's work on food 
security, safeguarding livelihoods of rural farmers, and rur al development Disciplining trade 
distorting domestic subsidies remains critical for food security and safeguarding livelihoods in 
developing countries. PSH and SSM are critical to give real impact to the food security agenda – 
they constitute important an d long outstanding issues. WTO reform: Our delegation is committed to 
engaging constructively on WTO reform in line with the foundational principles of the Marrakesh. 
This work, to be conducted in the GC, must address the interests of all Members. With reg ard to the 
footnote in paragraph 3 of the outcome document, it 's important to note that the understanding in 
the green Room was that it does not refer to plurilateral arrangements. For South Africa, the key 
issue to be addressed under the reform agenda is how to rebalance trade rules to respond to Africa 's 
industrial development imperative. The Africa Group has submitted a paper which addresses some 
of these issues and we are ready to engage Members in this discourse in the GC and its subsidiary 
bodies. Par t of the reform agenda pertains to the restoration of the DSB to full functionality including 
the two-tier system. South Africa is participating actively in the ongoing talks on DSB. Greater clarity 
on the objectives of the current discussions is needed to  facilitate the effectiveness of the ongoing 
work. eCommerce: Reinvigoration of the WPEC is important to address the development aspects of 
ecommerce. The longstanding questions on scope and definition need to be clarified. Regarding the 
moratorium, paragr aph 4 of the Ministerial Decision on WPEC provides a clear end date. The 
extension agreed at MC12 provides concerned private sector entities with the opportunity to adjust 
to the long overdue termination of the moratorium. I thank you.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  21. Nepal  
Thank you, Mad am Chair, for convening this meeting and giving me the floor.  
 
Let me begin by commending you, Madam Chair, and GC Chair for the tireless efforts and 
constructive engagement in concluding the twelfth Ministerial conference successfully with some 
positive outcomes.  I congratulate all leaders, delegates, and secretariat officials for this 
achievement. My delegation welcomes the MC12 outcomes although it does not have any LDC -
specific decision.  I associate with the statement to be delivered by Chad on behalf of the LDC Group 
and would like to add some points.  
 
All Members collectively worked and prepared the draft documents for the MC12 during the 
preparatory phase. However, we came to observe that the LDCs have been ignored and least heard 
while finali zing the MC12 results. LDCs with 14% of world population and 22% of the WTO 
membership were side -lined in the process. The document addresses LDCs ' concerns and priorities 
inadequately, except in a few areas of their concerns.  We concluded Ministerial Conf erence without 
any specific decision on LDCs.  
 
The LDC group submitted a proposal for extending facilities and flexibility to graduated LDCs in 2020. 
The proposal was discussed intensively at the General Council and wholeheartedly supported by a 
large sca le of membership. Considering the reservation expressed by a few members, the LDC group 
lowered its position, showed maximum flexibility, and submitted a revised proposal of interim 
arrangement in 2021. We had an expectation of having final discussion and decision on this proposal 
during the Ministerial. We had expressed our readiness to show further flexibility with a view to 
having a meaningful decision through this Ministerial. And this was the only proposal of the LDC 
group.  
 
Now, we have various decis ions and declarations from the MC12 but without any specific decision 
on LDC issues. We say that the WTO is member -driven and is committed to an inclusive and 
transparent process of the Ministerial Conference. However, to our surprise, the green room proce ss 
at the final stage could not be inclusive and transparent. At least, its discussions and achievements 
could have been shared with entire membership and members were given an opportunity to share 
their concerns. Additionally, there was almost no time to go through the final documents and provide 
comments for members who were not the part of the green room process.   
 
Let me turn to the post MC12. There are some works to carry out in a fixed timeline such as WTO 
reforms including functional dispute settleme nt mechanism, extension of coverage of TRIPS waiver, 
and others. LDCs still have some hope to continue discussion on our proposal and conclude at the 
earliest possible. My delegation stands ready to engage constructively with all these post MC12 
works. I u rge the entire membership and the WTO Secretariat for ensuring all post MC12 works to 
be fully transparent, participatory, inclusive, and member -driven. Thank you.  
22. Barbados  (CARICOM ) 
At the outset , I wish to , on behalf of the CARICOM group in Geneva , thank you Mme Director -General 
and the General Council Chair for convening this meeting and in so doing welcome this opportunity 
to participate in a collective reflection on MC12, including its outcomes, as well as to collectively 
discuss our work ahead. Our g roup joins others in commending Ministers across the development 
spectrum of the membership on a successful MC12. Our collective ability to agree on a package of 
outputs by consensus was a demonstration of the type of moral political leadership that is req uired 
throughout our work here in the WTO, and is a signal that this organisation continues to be relevant 
as the regulator and developer of trade rules. We therefore thank both you, Director -General and 
the General Council Chair for the role that you play ed in bridging the differences and finding 
convergences where possible during MC12.  We especially thank you DG for your tremendous 
fortitude and leadership particularly as it relates to the pursuit of consensus on critical issues. The 
work of the MC12 Chai r and Ministerial Facilitators was indispensable and was key to the 
achievements of the comprehensive package that was achieved.  This applies to the work of the 
Chairs of the Negotiating Groups as well. We agree that despite these successes the process dur ing 
MC12 was not perfect and that post -MC12 we need to spend some time thinking about how these 
can be made more transparent and inclusive for all Members. Included in such reflection must be a 
very clear recognition and respect for the fact that not all r egional groupings or configurations within 
the WTO have a mandate to negotiate on substantive matters on behalf of its Members. We must WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  therefore seek to ensure that certain lines are not blurred or crossed as smaller and amongst those 
that can be consider ed by some as less powerful WTO Members we were pleased to see that these 
traits were in no way meant that countries like ours could be rendered as invisible or dispensable 
within the main decision making organ of this organisation. In looking forward we recognize  that 
what we do next will depend on each specific outcome from MC12. Whilst some outcomes require 
reflection on implementation , there are others that incorporate critical built-in timeframes  which 
would either require us to report to our Ministers  at a later date or that trigger further action for 
example the decision on an extension of the MC12 decision on the TRIPS Agreement to cover the 
production and supply of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics. We are reflecting on the outcomes 
in our Capit als and consider it necessary for a similar period of reflection on these in the WTO.  
Conversely, we cannot be complacent if we are to ensure transparency and inclusivity , particularly 
in areas which have MC12 mandates or in areas where there are well know n divergences. We must 
seek to avoid a situation where we are rushed to negotiate on important issues and therefore 
compromise the ability of small delegations like ours to participate in all areas of interest to us. Our 
group continues to place significan t importance on multilateralism and the delivery of multilateral 
outcomes in this organisation. Such outcomes and discussions must take into account the issues 
and positions of all Members particularly those of us that are small. We look forward to engagin g on 
areas included but not limited to WTO reform, fisheries subsidies, services, food security, trade debt 
and finance.  
 
On fisheries subsidies we recognize  the acqui in the June 10 Chair 's text, particularly as it relates to 
over-fishing and overcapacity and the implicit timeline for conclusion of comprehensive disciplines. 
Our group is ready to engage on the way forward on this file.  
 
On the work programme on e -commerce, we recognize  that significant emphasis has been placed 
on the moratorium on the imposition of electronic transmission. Of equal importance for us is the 
continued ability to discuss and engage with Members on issues under the remit of 1998 Work 
Programme, which impinge wh ether positively or negatively on our development. The focus of the 
WTO must therefore expressly result in the reinvigoration of the work programme as mandated by 
our Ministers. Admittedly, the onus will be on us and on other Members to bring forward paper s and 
proposals for engagement in the various bodies designated for work under the work programme. 
We commit to working in this vein.  
 
The last few years have shown that there is a real and pressing need for WTO reform. While we 
recognize  that reform is being undertaken as we speak, defining the parameters on which is meant 
by the term will be critical if we are to ensure that the issues of interest to all Members are included 
in the manner that allows the participation and ownership of a process that is Member -driven and 
ensures that the WTO is an organisation that is fit for purpose and ensures that all of its Members 
particularly those that are small and vulnerable are integrated into the multilateral trading system.  
 
In conclusion, the CARICOM group reaffirms its readiness and willingness to engage with all Members 
and in your respective processes as Director -General and Chair of the G eneral Council. The CARICOM 
group aligns with the statement delivered by Jamaica on behalf of the ACP Group.  
23. Japan  
We share the positive recognition of MC12 as summed up by you, General Council Chair and other 
Members. We need to capture this and increase  trust in this organisation to move forward. In this 
regard , I have a couple of specific elements to share with other Members.   
 
First, agriculture negotiations. Japan supported the discussions based on the Chair 's text in the 
series of processes leading u p to MC12. Given the post -MC12 reality , we intend to actively participate 
in the process to find out the future course of the negotiations including the exchange of views at 
the retreat suggested by the Director -General.  
 
On fisheries subsidies, Japan con siders meaningful Members were able to reach a multilateral 
agreement from the perspective of securing the fisheries resources as well as demonstrating the 
rule-making function of the WTO is still alive and working. Members should proceed with the 
domestic  ratification procedures  at the earliest timing. As stated in paragraph 4 of the Ministerial 
Decision , Members shall address the outstanding issues on the basis of the relevant text and 
Members should resume the discussions in order to achieve the outcome.  On COVID response, Japan 
recognize s that the WTO managed to make achievements that meet expectation of the world. On WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  the extension of the TRIPS waiver to COVID -19 therapeutics and the diagnostics, we believe that 
fact-based  discussions on the specific nee d for such a waiver is necessary.  
 
On the WTO reform. As noted in Paragraph 3 and 4 of the MC12 outcome document, Japan highly 
appreciates the agreement reached by the Ministers on WTO reforms, including dispute settlement 
reform. One specific item, Japan  wishes that the Members will reach a consensus on the proposal 
on the procedures to enhance transparency and improve compliance with the notification 
requirements at the next General Council as a step forward advancing WTO reform.   
 
Finally, on the e -comm erce moratorium, Ministers agree to reinvigorate the work  under the work  
programme on e -commerce and extend the moratorium at MC12. Although Japan is of the view that 
the moratorium should be permanent, the agreement reached at MC12 was an achievement. We will 
participate constructively in the discussions under the work programme on e -commerce.  
24. India  
Thank you, Mme DG and good afternoon colleagues. First of all, India would like to thank Kazakhstan 
and the Swiss Government for the successful conduct of MC12 . I would also like to join our colleagues 
in congratulating you, the GC Chair, the Ministerial Conference Chair, all the Members and last but 
not least the WTO Secretariat for a successful MC12 which indeed deliver ed unprecedented 
outcomes. Notwithstandin g the sleep deficit all of us had I think all of us have recovered from that 
and thank you. I think I forgot to mention the good hospitality of office of DG during those 3 or 4 
nights when we  were missing our homes and that first-floor room or Room D was o ur second home 
with a good, sumptuous  food being offered both inside and outside the room so that we could sustain 
long nights. Thank you for that. Mme DG we would like to emphasise the importance of post -MC12 
work, both to implement the mandate delivered by our Ministers and also to expedite the work on 
those mandated areas in which , unfortunately , decisions could not be reached and on top of that list 
for us for India is permanent solution to public stock holding, SSM in agriculture and G90 proposal 
on special and differential treatment.  
On specific outcomes , which we have achieved, all the 10 doc uments India believes that all the 10 
documents are work in progress because we have not yet reached the final stage of any of these 10 
documents.  
 
On fisheries subsidies, let me start, that what we delivered, India would be looking forward towards 
the le gal scrubbing, joining other Members who have raised this issue of the texts, without getting 
into debate and putting a timeline on legal scrubbing so that before summer break we can complete 
the legal scrubbing and move process forward for the ratificatio n of agreement on accelerated 
matters by Members.  
 
On the commencement of negotiations for comprehensive agreement in fisheries, including through 
further disciplines on certain subsidies that contribute to overcapacity or overfishing, my delegation 
would  like to emphasise the need for appropriate and effective special and differential treatment for 
developing country members including LDC members to be an integral part of these negotiations.  
 
On WFP decision we would call upon WTO Secretariat to start ge tting information from World Food 
Programme and to start reporting on the procurements made after this declaration to let us 
understand better the effectiveness and utility of this declaration.  
 
On food insecurity declaration , we would remind Members that  we should work in a time -bound 
manner to fulfil the mandate given on the basis of proposals from Egypt and Sri Lanka so that the 
problems or challenges of least developed and net food importing developing countries are taken 
care of.   
 
On WTO reform , we look forward to commencement of the process by the General Council. We 
emphasise once again that the reform process should be conducted by the GC and its subsidiary 
bodies as mandated by our Ministers and let me also take this opportunity to reiterate to th e 
Members that the footnote with respect to WTO reform paragraph is not meant to be used as an 
opening for the joint statement initiatives but for Members to submit proposals to the General Council 
and its subsidiary bodies on WTO reform, so we do hope tha t members will respect this 
understanding reached during the final stage  of negotiations on this matter during those late night 
discussions.   
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  On special and differential treatment as mandated by our Ministers , we look forward to expediting 
the work with r espect to issues in the CTD SS as these have been long pending and my delegation 
is ready to actively contribute to help move the work forward in this area.   
 
On WTO response to the pandemic, we will be giving our suggestions in writing, so I will not take 
much time.  
 
On e -commerce moratorium and work programme , the process to understand the scope of 
moratorium needs to begin now. Members need to work in a cons orted and time -bound manner in 
the General Council and other regular WTO bodies to arrive at a common understanding on the 
scope of this moratorium. We also underscore the importance of reinvigoration of work programme 
in all mandated councils and committe es and we do repeat that India along with other Members 
have already submitted in the Council for Trade and Development a paper in November 2021 and 
encourage Members to engage on this issue.   
 
On the TRIPS waiver we need to expedite and take forward the w ork with respect to paragraph 8 of 
the Ministerial Decision. The submission made on 6 July, by co -sponsors of waiver  proposal which 
South Africa has also mentioned in their intervention is having an indicative timeline  to assist with 
scheduling and priorit ising this mandated work within the estimated time period. I will not take much 
time on TRIPS we will give it as a part of our written submission .  
 
And on process during MC12 many delegations have reiterated here and have given their grievances 
and we als o faced considerable challenges due to the limitation s on the number of delegates who 
could attend meetings at the same time in the WTO premises and since you know that multiple 
meetings were taking place simultaneously sometimes we also felt left out of s ome of the meetings. 
So, we would request that we should review the process of green room and room D or any small 
group processes so that we should have proper representation and , in this regard,  we request that 
catalogue of suggestions received from Membe rs may be prepared by WTO Secretariat and India is 
willing to contribute into that.  
Lastly, lack of sufficient time given to Members to go through the final negotiating texts is an issue 
and which comes repeatedly in various Ministerial Conferences , so I am sure that Members will 
collectively look at this and these issues would be looked at well before MC13 so that we learn from 
the experiences of MC12.  
25. Nigeria  
My delegation would like to thank you for convening this meeting and to thank Kazakhstan and 
Switzerland for the successful hosting of MC12. At the outset, we wish to associate ourselves with 
the statement delivered on behalf of the African Group by Cameroon and ACP by Jamaica. Nigeria 
wishes to take this opportunity to congratulate you, the GC Chai r, the DDG's, the Chair and Vice 
Chairs of MC12 and Facilitators and indeed the WTO membership and Secretariat staff for the 
remarkable success of MC12. I must specially commend you DG for fulfilling within a year most of 
the campaign promises you have mad e to Members. DG, you have set a record of excellence in the 
MC12 by making sure that Members came together to produce 10 ministerial decisions which is very 
unprecedented. These decisions really restored the image, dignity and trust of the WTO. By 
implica tions the multilateral trading system is back on track for more successes. It is appreciative 
through the present leadership members who are able to deliver a package of agreements and 
declarations that will have positive impact on lives of people around t he world, especially the most 
vulnerable as they grapple with the hard economic and social impact of the COVID -19 pandemic and 
other global economic uncertainties. We believe that for the benefit of the MC12 package to trickle 
down, Members must honour com mitments made as well as agreements reached and take proactive 
steps towards their implementation. In this regard , we wish to share our views on some issues that 
should be accorded priority in the WTO especially after the summer break.  
 
On Agriculture, we  must engage constructively in discussions under the work programme envisaged 
under paragraph 8 of the Ministerial Decision on the emergency response to food insecurity taking 
into account paragraph 9 of the same declaration towards the delivery of outcome s that will foster 
the building of  a resilien t agriculture sector in net food importing developing countries and LDCs. We 
must also engage constructively in the negotiations in the COA SS towards the delivery of outcomes 
that will enable developing countri es and LDCs the opportunity to scale domestic support to reforms 
that are needed for a competitive fair and level playing field in the global agriculture market. We WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  also welcome the suggestion by the DG on the need for a retreat, particularly to re -strateg ize on a 
different approach to negotiate agriculture in order to achieve positive outcomes.  
 
Regarding the Ministerial decision on TRIPS Agreement we must engage in good faith, discussions 
on the extension of the decision to cover the production and supply of COVID -19 diagnosis and 
therapeutics by the end of 2022. The same applies to the fisheries subsidies Members are expected 
to ratify and  to enter into force hoping that overfishing and overcapacity will be addressed. We are 
also interested to see soonest the commencement of the process of the WTO reform , and we hope 
that it will be open , transparent and inclusive and to consider the concer ns of the developing 
countries. In conclusion , we will continue to call on Members to accord priority to the delivery of 
development centred outcomes in all areas of works of the WTO.   
26. Chinese Taipei  
Thank you, Madam Chair.  Following your suggestion, let m e succinctly make the following points:  
 
On fisheries subsidies, we are satisfied with the process conducted under the leadership of 
Ambassador Wills. For the next wave of negotiation on overcapacity and overfishing (OCOF), we are 
of the view that the cha ir's latest draft on this topic is a very good basis to start with. My sense is 
that there are many elements in the OCOF chapter in the chair 's text on which most Members can 
agree. Members can start discussing how to fine -tune our approach so as to carefu lly adjust the 
balance between the practical needs of developing country Members, on the one hand, and the 
expectation of fisheries conservation, on the other hand.  
 
On the general WTO reform issues, we are of view that we need to improve WTO 's negotiatio n 
function and that we should review whether there are substantive rules to be improved to ensure 
fair competition. On the specific reform of the dispute settlement mechanism, our view is that 
collecting and compiling previous problems and reviewing whethe r there are unused existing tools 
under the DSU or other agreements could be the first step to give all Members a fuller picture of the 
aspects that need to be fixed. In this respect, we welcome the consultation opportunity with the GC 
Chair after the summ er break.  
 
Regarding e -commerce, Members certainly should continue serious discussion s on the pos sibility of 
making the moratorium permanent as well as ensuring the reinvigoration of the Work Programme. 
This is of high importance for businesses of all Memb ers. The decision needs to be made far prior to 
MC13 so as to ensure stable and predictable business environment.  
 
On the public health issue, we certainly should continue the discussion of TRIPS waiver issues on 
diagnostics and therapeutics. We must also not forget that we have to prepare ourselves for any 
possible future public health crisis of similar nature. How to best use the experiences we already 
have this time regarding COVID -19 pandemic and to apply them to future event is of high 
importance.  
 
Finally, I share the  view expressed by some Members that the Ministerial Conference could have 
been more transparent so that before adopting the final result, those Members not in the small room 
had the minimum necessary time to review the compromises achieve d in the small room before their 
acceptance.  
27. Russian Federation  
As the Director -General correctly stated , the success of MC12 was achieved in quite a changing 
external environment and that success is to very much extent due to the constructive approach of 
most Members, including my delegation, who left no space for politicisation of its outcomes. All final 
documents were designed in a purely professional manner and did not go beyond the WTO mandate.  
That allowed Russia together with all other Members to accept them. At the same time, in our view, 
their "friend -shoring"  negotiating format chosen by some Members  for some particular reasons 
seriously intoxicated both the preparatory process and the content of the conference. Contributing 
to the deficit of transparency and inclusiveness as mentioned by several previous speakers  and in 
spite of tremendous efforts by  the DG and the General Council Chair and Chairs of Negotiating 
Groups and the Kazakhstan Presidency efforts that we very much appreciated. As the result of such 
deficit as an example it so happened that many delegations including ours obtained their final  text 
of the fisheries agreement only a few minutes before its gavelling at the Closing Session and I WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  witnessed many other delegations who got acquainted with that text in paper version only after its 
formal approval. And one day before disengagement of so me smaller Members in the negotiations 
put the whole deal under systemic risk. The question is "should such practice be now considered 
normal for the WTO ?". None of us made those stories public , in contrary , in media we held the 
fisheries deal as the first  multilateral agreement adopted by the WTO within the last 9 years which 
is absolutely true and a great achievement. However, I think that that was a lesson and a matter 
for reflection for all of us and today's  meeting seems to be the right occasion for do ing that. Thank 
you, DG, for admitting such failures of the MC12 conduct , which you called communication problems,  
but I am afraid that problems we are facing are much broader. It's not just about transparency, it's 
about the right of any Member independently of its size, status, negotiating position and/or any 
other factors, to feel engaged in the negotiating process . At least for me it would be quite difficult, 
not to say impossible , to convince next time my superiors to sign off another agreement, a decision 
or a document which will be elaborated without direct participation and involvement of my 
delegation. Thus,  if some Members continue their practice of negotiating behind closed doors only 
with those partners with whom they want to do it I very much doubt that we will be able to adopt 
any further consensual decisions here in the WTO either on implementation of the  MC12 outcomes 
or on building upon the achievements of the Conference . We believe that the real progress can be 
made only in a truly multilateral setting.  
28. Vanuatu  (Pacific Group ) 
We associate ourselves also with the positive sentiments expressed by a numb er of delegations and 
also, I make this statement on behalf of the Pacific Group and we also align ourselves with the 
statement of the ACP Group. We thank you for your report and the report of the Chair of the Rules 
Negotiating Group and we thank you for c alling this meeting to have this collective reflection on 
MC12. We have  analysed the  outcomes of MC12 and we will not make any comments on the other 
issues other than to make reference on the fisheries subsidies which as you all know is an issue of 
priorit y for the Pacific region. We are very pleased with the outcomes and we recognize  that there 
will be some additional work that needs to be done but given the circumstances of the partial 
outcome on the fisheries subsidies agreement focussing on IUU fishing or fish stocks and 
transparency was necessary and a positive step to addressing the two forms of harmful subsidies.  
We must continue work in earnest to address the imbalance in the current agreement by completing 
negotiations to integrate overcapacity in all fishing pillar in the agreement , as some members had 
already indicated.  
 
On the process of MC12 , we commend the streamlined business -like format of the conference and 
the inclusion of the thematic sessions which allowed all Members to participate. Obvi ously, we have 
some concerns regarding what appears to be some lack of transparency and inclusiveness which 
you have made reference to , of some of the processes of MC12 that seemed to be dictating 
outcomes. We must rethink on how to improve participation o f all Members in the decisions.  
 
Going forward , we must prioritise work in completing the negotiations on the fisheries subsidies 
agreement and progressing work on agriculture. Some of the proposals that you had expressed this 
afternoon for a retreat , we support for it. In addition,  we would like to think that the work on the 
WTO reforms should be progressed to restore the appellate body and to improve an inclusive and 
transparent process at Ministerial Conferences.   
29. Paraguay  
Thank you, Director General.  Paraguay recognizes that, despite the challenges faced by the 
multilateral trading system, with a pandemic and geopolitical crisis in between, Members put aside 
their differences and focused on achieving a successful Ministerial Conference. In this regard, we 
understand that the consensus reached on the e -commerce moratorium, food security, the response 
to the pandemic, including the waiver for COVID -19 vaccines, and fisheries subsidies, will enable 
work to continue in order to achieve more far -reaching and broader outcomes, particularly in the 
reform of the Organization, where there is still a long way to go.  
 
Furthermore, despite the absence of satisfactory outcomes in agriculture, we would like to 
emphasize that we will continue working constructively wit h a view to moving towards real 
agricultural reform in all pillars, in particular market access, mandated by Article 20 of the Agreement 
on Agriculture.  
 WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  Madam Director -General, we would like to take the opportunity of this meeting to reflect on the 
decisi on-making process during MC12. We would have liked to see greater transparency in the 
handling of the discussions and the opportunity to have more time to examine the negotiating texts, 
in Heads of Delegation format. That would have ensured a transparent, open and inclusive process, 
and given more legitimacy to the outcome of the ministerial package. This is a challenge ahead for 
all Members.  
 
Similarly, in the future we would like to see a more balanced handling of the interests of developing 
countries, and in particular of the Latin American region, which has contributed so much to the 
multilateral system. The fact that Paraguay has joined the  consensus does not mean that it is 
satisfied with what has been agreed.  
 
Our wish for subsequent ministerial meetings is for all Members to be not only part of the outcome 
but also part of the process and decision -making.  
 
To conclude, we would like to congratulate you and your team once again, as well as the facilitators 
of the negotiating groups, in particular Ambassador Gloria Abraham of Costa Rica, Ambassador 
Santiago Wills of Colombia and Ambassador Dacio Castillo of Honduras, who represented our re gion 
so well. Director General, you can count on my delegation to move forward constructively on the 
road map we established towards MC13, committed to WTO reform and building a WTO for all. Thank 
you. 
30. Tunisia  
My delegation welcomes the outcome reached at MC12 and we would like to thank all Members who 
showed the necessary flexibility to find a consensus on most of the priorities before us and we would 
also like to thank the MC12 Chair, the Chair of the General Council, the Facilitators, Ministers and 
Chair s of Negotiating Groups, the Secretariat and in particular we would like to thank you , DG, for 
having inspired the negotiators with your specific way of leading those negotiations and indeed your 
dedication and we are not accustomed to such humanity in the  negotiations in this organisation and 
I think that was a real key to the historic success that we achieved. Personally speaking , it was my 
first conference and I am delighted to continue to work in this organisation which has now seen 
renewed credibility and with a real conviction to reach compromises that was the good news at MC12 
came at the end of a whole night negotiating but if that is the right way to go why not to programme 
night sessions at all of the decision making ministerials and I think Member s could be receptive to 
that. DG , having said that, we should be pleased with what we have achieved but at the same time 
we must not forget that there were issues with the process at MC12 and you have referred to those 
yourself in your report.  We take note  of what you have said but clearly we are going to have to 
improve the transparency and inclusiveness of the process in future meetings , including in the green 
room process , which seems to have replaced other processes where a number of Ministers in spite 
of their flexibility stayed longer but were never invited and just waited to try and get some news in 
the corridors and that was a great shame for many of our delegations. We need to assess the stakes 
at the MC13 because MC12 seems to have postponed a lot of decisions to be taken there and a lot 
of the work that still needs to be done and a lot of recommendations need to be approved. I won't 
go into all the details of the different mandates,  but I would just like to sketch out the priorities of 
my delegatio n for the way forward.   
 
Firstly, a decision on the extension to diagnostics and treatments for COVID -19 regarding the waiver 
to the TRIPS Agreement. Immediately after the summer break would be a priority so that we could 
reach a holistic agreement and str engthen the credibility of the Ministerial Decision that was reached.  
 
Secondly,  we still have regrets about the fact that no results were achieved in agriculture and that 
should no longer be acceptable. We need to identify areas and work immediately towa rds preparing 
for MC13 and that must be an absolute priority. The long -awaited agreement on public stock holding 
for food security purposes, domestic support, strengthening the capacities of developing countries 
in particular net importing food products an d support for small scale agriculture farmers should also 
be an integral part of the outcome.  
 
On fisheries subsidies , we need to make the most of this unprecedented momentum to work very 
closely and focus on the issue of overcapacity and overfishing whic h is absolutely vital if we are to 
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  and assistance mechanism as provided for in the agreement in order to support developing countries 
and LDCs to implem ent it effectively.  
 
Regarding e -commerce, we need to reinvigorate the Work Programme and that is not just something 
for speeches it is something that we need to see in practice and we need to have a clear matrix with 
the major thrusts to work on and an assessment of the scope and effectiveness of the moratorium.  
 
Finally , on WTO reform, we believe that we need to continue to maintain the momentum in order to 
strengthen the rules -based multilateral framework , taking into account all of the concerns of all 
Members and supporting the SDGs and we believe that the deadline for 2024 for  a functioning 
dispute settlement system must be respected , otherwise we risk undermining the credibility of 
decisions at WTO. And to conclude , we reiterate our commitment to engaging constructively and 
contributing to a mandate which is implemented and th en ensuring that we have this renewed trust 
in our organisation. We support the statement by Cameroon on behalf of the African Group.  
31. Türkiye  
We would like to thank you, MC Chair, Kazakhstan, Switzerland and all the Members and the 
Secretariat staff for t heir tireless efforts that made MC12 a success. The agreement on the fisheries 
subsidies has been a historic achievement and shown that here at the WTO we can still negotiate 
effectively. We find it very meaningful to be able to craft an agreement in this area and stand ready 
to do our part on a more comprehensive agreement as well as pledge to the current text. We are 
also content that we have finally managed to put together a document that registers the relevance 
of trade and the WTO with regards to the p andemic. What falls upon us from now on is to make it 
actually work in the current and future pandemics. We should make this document our guide in our 
quest for a quicker and cleverer response to future pandemics, keeping the lessons learned in our 
minds. In this sense we are confident that the stocktaking exercise to be undertaken by the General 
Council will work to this end.  
 
Regarding e -commerce moratorium we are pleased that a reasonable and comprehensible consensus 
has been reached. Having regard to t he deadlines in the decision we urge all the Members to initiate 
this discussion about scope, definition and impact of the moratorium as soon as possible. T ürkiye is 
ready to engage actively and constructively in Work Programme -related discussions.  
 
It has also been an important milestone to be able to keep on the MC outcome paper the need for 
reform of the WTO. As much as it has necessitated tough round of negotiations, it was worth it. Now 
we know that we need to launch an inc lusive and balanced reform process with clear objectives and 
concrete work plans as a matter of urgency. We have to bring the WTO back with its full functions. 
It has to resume its negotiating function, monitoring function and the dispute settlement functi on 
fully and we have to preserve the WTO as the main venue for the governance of international trade. 
Türkiye stands ready to participate in the upcoming work to that effect.  
 
In conclusion , we are glad that we have a successful Ministerial Conference and  we will continue to 
work in cooperation in the WTO.  
32. El Salvador  
Thank  you, Madam  Chair,  thank you for convening  this meeting.   
I would  like to thank  and acknowledge  your tireless  efforts  and leadership  and extend  my thanks  to 
the Chair of the General  Council and the entire  Secretariat  team.  
The ministerial  package  represents  a milestone  in the history  of the Organization,  for several  
reasons:   
• It contains substantive decisions and agreements that go beyond trade and address 
sustainability and trade and he alth issues, which have a positive impact on the lives of our 
people.  
• Being one of the most important packages achieved in meetings of this kind, it breaks with 
the paradigm that it is difficult to have concrete outcomes at Ministerial Conferences held 
in Geneva.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  • The constructive spirit and cooperation of all Members, as well as moderation, was evident 
and undoubtedly contributed to these important achievements.  
We share  your views,  Madam  Director -General,  on the future  work of the Organization  and the 
urgency of resuming  discussions  as soon as possible  on the outstanding  issues,  as well as on the 
implementation  of the agreements  reached.  Despite  the Organization's  positive  outcomes,  we have 
a lot of work ahead  of us.  
Madam  Director -General,  with regard  to the preparatory  process  and conduct  of the Ministerial  
Conference,  there  is room for improvement  based  on the lessons  learned,  to which  you and other  
Members  have referred.  I will focus on just a few:  
• The flow of off icial information should be improved in future meetings, as well as increasing 
the number of transparency meetings needed to keep all members informed. Reports on 
progress and/or status of small discussions should be made available in a timely and official  
manner.  
• Official documents circulated prior to the Ministerial Conference, as well as final agreements 
or declarations, should be circulated in sufficient time to allow for due process of analysis 
and consultations within the membership.  
• To consult in an  inclusive manner on substantial changes made to the texts during 
negotiations that take place during the Ministerial Conference, as these may alter the 
balance of the texts for some Members.  
We welcome  the ideas that have been put forward  to improve  these processes,  including  the 
Secretariat's  document.   
Madam  Chair,  it is important  that, while we continue  to push for substantive  agreements  and 
outcomes,  we must at the same  time keep to the format  and ensure  that the principles  of 
transparency  and inclusiveness  to which  we always  refer are preserved  and effectively  implemented.   
I would  like to take this opportunity  to welcome  our colleague  from Chile and wish her every  success  
in her new functions.  Thank  you, Madam  Chair.  
33. Canada  
I would like to thank the DG, the GC Chair and the former GC chair for their efforts to achi eve 
outcomes at MC -12. 
 
Canada joins other Members in welcoming these outcomes.  
 
Though not as ambitious as we had hoped, they do strengthen the multilateral trading system and 
create important pathways forward.  
 
In this regard, Canada remains committed to  working with other Members on the outstanding 
elements of the fisheries text to ensure the sustainability of the fish and seafood sector and preserve 
global fish stocks for generations to come, in line with SDG 14.6.  
 
We will also actively participate in the work on responding to future pandemics.  
 
Building on the extension of the e -commerce Work Program and Moratorium, Canada looks forward 
to continue the discussions on the relevant trade -related aspects of this important issue.   
 
In addition, we look forward to participating in the SPS Committee work programme to consider how 
to further enhance the implementation of that Agreement to respond to emerging challenges and 
promote science - and rules - based trade.  
 
[As mentioned by the United States, we see the adoption at the next General Council of the proposal 
to examine and come up with ways to improve transparency by Members as another important 
pathway that can reinforce the system 's foundation.]  
 WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  Canada does regret that we were unable to reach an outco me in agriculture during MC12.  We believe 
this setback requires that we reflect on the architecture of these negotiations and to chart a different 
path forward.  
 
Indeed, the challenges encountered during MC12 highlight why Canada has been a leading voice 
calling for significant reform of the WTO.   
 
We need a strong and effective WTO that can deliver results for Members at all levels of 
development.  
 
One way is through JSI negotiations, where Canada seeks to attain and quickly implement ambitious 
outcomes.  
 
Canada is steadfast in its commitment to the ideals and objectives of the WTO, and we will continue 
to play a leadership role in nurturing a strong multilateral trading system for all Members.  
 
Finally Chair, Canada strongly condemns President Putin 's unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine and calls 
on the Russian leadership to immediately withdraw its troops back to Russia.  
 
Russia alone is responsible for this illegal and unprovoked war, which continues to have catastrophic 
effects on Ukraine, its neighbours , and people across the globe.  
 
Canada 's support for Ukraine and its people is unwavering, and we will work to find ways to use 
trade to support Ukraine rebuild its economy and its society.  
34. Philippines  
The Philippines would like to commend the leadership a nd fortitude shown by the Director -General , 
MC and GC Chairs, Facilitators, Chairs of Negotiating Groups, Senior Officials and the Secretariat in 
securing convergence in the waning hours of the Ministerial Conference. The Geneva package must 
be deemed a su ccess. It has enhanced the organisation 's visibility  and restored confidence in the 
WTO as an institution. The Philippines looks forward to building on the concrete outcomes on fisheries 
subsidies and sustainable development, trade and health and food secu rity. We were also able to 
sustain predictability in digital trade and achieved a clear commitment to hasten comprehensive 
WTO reform. That said, we concur with the views expressed by other delegations that our working 
methods related to negotiations and t ransparency must be significantly improved as we look towards 
MC13. We are supportive of efforts to enhance confidence building among delegations and to 
examine new modalities for engagement. In this respect, we would support the organisation of a 
retreat to consider new approaches to agriculture and possibly extending it to a discussion on WTO 
reform. We also remain open to the suggestion of convening of more frequent and regular Ministerial 
Conferences , possibly with a more streamlined agenda and format.  
35. Antigua and Barbuda  (OECS)  
Thank you, Director -General,  for the floor and for the important statement you made at the 
beginning. This statement is delivered on behalf of the OECS members,  and we associate with the 
statement by Barbados on behalf of the CARICOM Group and by Jamaica on behalf of the ACP. Chair, 
the OECS commends you, the Chair of the General Council and the entire Secretariat team for a 
successful staging of MC12. We commend also the entire WTO membership and we should be proud 
to have secured an important and meaningful outcome on behalf of all people as well as the integrity 
of the multilateral trading system. However, we cannot afford to be so consumed by self -
congratulations that we forget that there is a considerable amount of work ahead to ensure that we 
fulfil the respective mandates of the  Ministers.  
 
The TRIPS agreement  - We are pleased that the Ministers were able to come to an agreement on 
TRIPS, a limited TRIPS waiver for COVID -19 vaccines. This is not just a symbolic gesture but for 
countries still finding it difficult to access vacci nes in the fight against COVID -19 the waiver decision 
has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to that effort. We now call attention to Paragraph 
8 of the TRIPS waiver decision and support the cause made at the TRIPS Council meeting yesterday 
and again here today by South Africa and others for work to begin to arrive at a decision on extending 
the waiver to cover diagnostics and therapeutics. After 3 years of battling COVID -19 what is clear is 
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  have an opportunity to prioritise people, their lives and livelihoods over and above profits and legal 
rigidity.  
 
Fisheries subsidies, this is another area in which we secured another vital outcome – albeit one with 
a reduced ambition. We welcome the fact that we have an agreement which allows us to reduce and 
eventually eliminate subsidies which contribute to illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing as well 
as those which contribute to overfished stocks. We also welcome the launch of the fisheries funding 
mechanism. We are also disappointed that we are unable to finalise the overcapacity and overfishing 
pillar incl uding with respect to appropriate and effective special and differential treatment for 
developing countries and LDCs. Therefore, we call attention to Article 12 of the Agreement and we 
impress on the membership to resume work well in advance of the trigger ing of the sunset clause 
to develop the outstanding comprehensive disciplines. It will be in no -one's interest to allow this 
agreement to collapse.  
 
E-commerce – we maintain ed throughout that the reasonable course of action was to renew both 
the Work Programme and the moratorium.  That these negotiations went down to the wire was a 
reflection of the extent to which some Members have felt let down by the apparent lack of intent to 
engage constructively on matters of importan ce to them such as addressing the digital divide and 
clarifying the scope and coverage of the moratorium as well as the revenue issues. These concerns 
should not be lost on us , and we call on the intensified discussions foreseen in the ministerial decision 
to be convened shortly.  
 
Work Programme on Small Economies – The Ministerial decision is clear and we call for work to begin 
in this area without delay. We invite your attention to paragraph 3 and 4 of the outcome document. 
The OECS is committed to discussions on reform and we want to se e the convening of work under 
the General Council and its subsidiary bodies on reform as instructed by our Ministers. We further 
draw attention to the desire and need to have a fully functioning two-tiered  dispute settlement 
system. We call for the urgent reconstitution of the appellate body and we remind the Members 
which is chiefly responsible for the current impasse that we can reconstitute the Appellate Body 
while simultaneously engaging in discussions and processes to address any concerns that Members 
may have. The two are not mutually exclusive.   
 
Finally, it would be remiss not to flag the high priority we attach to the principles of transparency, 
inclusivity , openness and consensus decision -making. We are against any and all attempts at 
subverting these principles. Whilst we accept that some difficult issues may first need to be worked 
out between and amongst Members with specific concerns on the matter , our modus cannot and 
should not be one where we are routinely excluded from processes  and then presented with 
outcomes which we are expected to adopt. As much as we laud the successes secured at MC12 , we 
now have an opportunity to engage in some serious soul searching. We encourage more dialogue 
across the board and invite Members to engag e on more trust and confidence building activities.  
Each of us has a stake in trade multilateralism and in this house there is no bright star amongst us 
because every voice matters.  
36. Peru  
First of all, I would like to express my thanks to you, to your team , to the DDGs , to Facilitators, 
Chairpersons of the Negotiating Group for the excellent work and the tireless efforts we all have 
seen. Their leadership has meant we have been able to strengthen the international rules-based  
trading system. The achievement s of MC 12 were absolutely historic  because of the context in which 
they were materialized , as it has been mentioned already , we made achievements despite some not 
too large expectations. We were facing a  pandemic, in the middle of a conflict and a  global e conomic 
crisis. Despite  all of that, 164 Members managed to leave our aspirations to one side and to achieve 
consensus based agreements - agreements we could live with - as we like to say. One of the most 
important tools is the fisheries subsidies document  after 20 years of negotiations we have a result. 
This is the first document with the goal within this house of protecting the environment. Other 
important results have been mentioned. The vaccine waiver, the mandate for the reform of the WTO, 
the focus on  the dispute settlement system and the fact that it was expressed by Ministers that it 
must be fully operational with a deadline and of course I must mention the moratorium on e -
commerce which particularly affects Peru and our SMEs.  
 
Of course, DG , now is  not a time for us to be fatalistic , rather we must be realistic. We must 
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  kicked down the road. Mme DG, the reform of agricultural trade was left to one side. This is an 
important issue in our house, this is very concerning for Peru and for other members. We must 
return to that issue as soon as possible . Moreover , the conference as has been mentioned did not 
deal with the serious deficit we had on negotiations, lack of transparency, difficulties faced on getting 
access to timely information and inadequacies in terms of final texts. We are very grateful for the 
realistic explanations you gave at the beginning of this meeting , and we would like to lend all our 
support to d ealing with these issues efficiently. Peru believes we need to get to work as soon as 
possible and to ensure that work here is Member -driven. We would urge all our colleagues to be 
more proactive, to take part, to be committed to engage in dialogue and to not just wait for 
ministerials but rather actually get involved in the meetings prior to ministerials here in Geneva. As 
you proposed , we have important tools which help us to think about these issues, but perhaps we 
need innovative solutions. We need to b e creative; we need to think out of the box. We must learn 
the lessons of the past and not commit the same errors time and again expecting different results.  
We will continue  to constructively contribute  to the difficult work we have ahead.   
37. Zimbabwe  
My delegation joins the other Members in thanking you for your leadership. The resolve of Members 
of the Organisation and the entire Secretariat team that worked tirelessly to bring about the success, 
albeit  less ambitious outcome of the MC12 which we are timely reviewing at this moment. Zimbabwe 
aligns itself with the statements delivered by Cameroon on behalf of the African Group and by 
Jamaica on behalf of the ACP. In that regard , we wish to emphasise that the MC12 outcome still 
provides the organisation  with a credible basis for renewed impetus to work harder and with new 
mindset and open minds that endeavour to meet the sustainable development expectations of 
Members.  
 
Agriculture is critical to our economies. In view of the fact that MC12 fell short o n achievements on 
this important issue, Zimbabwe urges that serious engagement be initiated and accomplished  in 
support of this sector as mandated by the Ministers.   
 
On the TRIPS waiver , we are happy that at the TRIPS C ouncil meeting yesterday , Members 
emphasised the need for urgent engagement before the summer break and even immediately after. 
This takes into account the urgency to address the concerns regarding the production and supply of 
COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics.  
 
Finally, Zimbabwe stands  ready to constructively play its part and work assiduously in these areas 
in order to reap maximum advantages from the multilateral trading system. We therefore underscore 
that inclusivity and transparency are key principles within the context of the nego tiation of the WTO 
reform so as to fully and comprehensively embrace the views and concerns of all Members.   
38. New Zealand  
We would like to start by joining in congratulating you, the G eneral Council  Chair, the Secretariat, 
Switzerland and Kazakhstan on the MC12 outcome and to thank you , in particular , Director -General,  
for your unwavering faith in the membership to deliver tangible results. New Zealand agrees with 
the statement you made earlier that we need to capitalise on the shot in the arm that a success ful 
MC12 has given our organisation and the multilateral trading system. Our delegation has taken the 
opportunity to think carefully about how we best contribute to delivering on Ministerial direction for 
MC13. We particularly seized of the opportunity to bring new ideas and new energy to our 
deliberations in negotiations on agriculture. As you know, New Zealand has always had agriculture 
at the core of its WTO engagement,  and we are very heartened to hear today much collective will to 
advance the agricultu re reform agenda. We look forward to being part of all discussions in all formats 
on the substance of the agricultural agenda and the processes by which we advance it. I have one 
further point on fisheries,  and I would like to echo the comments made by the  European Union in 
response to a suggestion that we have heard today of the need for a legal revision or legal scrub of 
the text. We don't agree with this suggestion or understand why it is being made. The MC12 text is 
open for acceptance. New Zealand and I am sure other delegations are in the process already of 
preparing to submit the MC12 text to our parliamentary processes as the basis for our instrument 
of acceptance. This does not preclude the exercise of consultations on alignment of translations as 
offered today by Ambassador Wills.   WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  39. United States  
I would like to thank everybody , and I mean everybody , because everybody contributed to a 
successful MC12. In particular to whoever thought at 5h30 on the morning of Friday, June 17th to 
raise their flag and  did not. So, thank you , so that we could gavel the meeting to a close. There has 
been a lot said about some deficiencies in transparency. It  is good that we all recognize  that things 
can be done better and we also have to recognize  that Ministerials are w hat they are and it gets 
messy towards the end. We also have to recognize  that this is us. It is not the WTO that does these 
things. We do this to ourselves and in as we look forward to the work that we have to do and to 
MC13 which if according to plan is not that far away,  we should keep these lessons in mind because 
we are the ones that have to change the way we act . I completely agree with the colleague from 
Singapore. We have to think differently, we have to work differently,  and we have to act differently 
and that includes how we interact and how we prepare ourselves for things like Ministeria l 
Conferences. To the United States delegation that is one big part of reform and no process that we 
set up for reform is going to succeed if we do  not also change how we interact and how we do things 
here. I believe Singapore said also in a different cont ext we have to behave in ways that bring the 
group together and as I think back to MC12 I think towards the beginning of MC12 I was  not 
necessarily saying that. I do think that towards the end I was seeing  more of that, and I hope that 
this is something th at many  or all  of you share that we were trying to and there was a genuine 
desire to try to bring consensus. It does  not mean that we have to agree on everything but that we 
have to agree that we are here to try to achieve something and I think that Room D  was part of that 
but also just different conversations and talking to each other and I hope that we keep that as we 
move forward. David and I used to joke even starting last fall when we were looking at MC12 for 
November/December that the theme should be a renewal of vows from the WTO Members to the 
WTO and maybe in a way what we saw towards the end of MC12 was a little bit of that. We are here 
and we should make the most out of it and we are here and we are committed and we want to find 
ways of working, o f doing what Singapore is suggesting, that we have to think, work and act 
differently. We are doing this in -house in the US team, we are looking across the board at the 
committees to see how we can work better, how we can revitalise agendas in some committ ees so 
I welcome and will be reaching out to some committee chairs, but I welcome anyone who wants to 
have a conversation with us about how we can revitalise the work because there is a lot of good 
work that gets done here and sometimes it gets lost. Again , to us, that is a big part of what reform 
should be about. One other thing I would say as we look forward to the work that we need to get 
done and looking forward to MC13 is the notion that we have to leave everything for Ministers to 
decide is really not  a good idea and I have heard some people justifiably complaining about time 
management and the fact that the Ministerial had to be extended and people had to leave because 
they have commitments but that is on us, that  is because we leave everything , and I  remember 
having some conversations about this in the weeks leading up to the Ministerial , that every single 
decision needed to be made by Ministers. That is not right and that is not the way to success. We 
managed to pull it off this last time around,  but I think we should not bank on that.  
 
On reform I will say , again , we are committed to reform, but to us reform is not just setting up a 
process. It is changing how we behave,  and it has to come from everywhere. I already see and have 
learned today that w e already have some differences of opinion of what we actually agreed on the 
paragraph on reform but that is fine because what we did agree is that it has to be open, transparent 
and available to all Members and we will continue to push that through all me ans.  
 
I would like to very warmly welcome the new representative of Chile and look forward to working 
with you.  
40. Chad  (LDC Group)  
Mr Chair, I am making this statement at the request of Djibouti, the new coordinator of the WTO 
LDC Group.  
 
The LDC Group welcomes the decisions and declarations adopted at MC12 and congratulates you, 
Madam Director -General, and all delegates and fellow WTO members who demonstrated political will 
and determination to achieve a ministerial outcome. We are aware of the di fficult circumstances in 
which MC12 took place. However, as with any Ministerial Conference, there were some obstacles in 
the process, which we hope will be rectified for MC13.   
  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  In particular, with regard to our proposal for an interim solution on the re classification of LDCs, we 
appreciated the efforts made in the days leading up to the Ministerial Conference by you, Mr Chair, 
and by the Director -General.  We also thank the Members who worked with us to seek an agreement 
at the Ministerial Conference. We note that during MC12, we were given opportunities for 
consultations with a particular Member and in the final Green Room when we were called on to wait 
for the conclusion of the deliberations on fisheries.  
 
The LDCs held several bilateral meetings with v arious Members on how to find a compromise on the 
different wording of the proposal. We know that the Conference had already overrun the scheduled 
end date. This has happened in a number of WTO Ministerial Conferences.  That is why we were 
pleased to be inv ited to join the Green Room. However, after a four -hour wait, we were informed 
that there was no time left to facilitate a meeting with us.  
 
At this juncture, we will resume the item on the agenda of the General Council in order to obtain a 
decision that would allow the extension of the measures to Members graduating from the LDC 
category.   
 
We have deliberated on the preamble that now appears in paragraph 5 of the MC12 outcome 
document, which is the first multilateral recognition agreed by WTO Members on this issue at a 
Ministerial Conference. This paragraph, and our proposal in the General Council, are important for 
our future. We hope that before, and during, MC13 our proposal will be given priority in terms of 
time allocated and outcomes.  
 
As far as ot her outcomes are concerned, we look forward to the continuation of the work that has 
now begun on the TRIPS waiver, and our recommendations for the discussions on WTO reform.  
 
The LDC Group appreciates the adoption of paragraph 8 of the outcome document, w hich reaffirms 
Members' commitment to ministerial decisions in favour of LDCs, including additional instructions to 
the Council for Trade in Services on the implementation of the LDC services waiver and instructions 
to the Committee on Trade and Developmen t.  
 
We also welcome the adoption of our proposal in the Committee on Rules of Origin and additional 
instructions.    
 
Regarding agriculture, we are disappointed that the discussions on cotton have failed to achieve the 
expected outcomes.   
 
The document on the response to the pandemic was a priority achievement for us as the WTO 
emerged from the pandemic. Prior to the 12th Ministerial Conference, the LDC group contributed to 
this document, and thanks the facilitator, Ambassador Castillo, for his excellent work, as well as 
Minister Walcott of Barbados, for his role as facilitator during the ministerial meeting.  The WTO can 
show the world that it is committed to being ready to implement WTO rules and procedures on 
pandemic response.  
 
The LDC Group's  draft texts on fisheries subsidies are included in the agreement adopted at MC12.  
The agreement is an important and unprecedented achievement for the WTO, which is committed 
to eliminating subsidies for IUU fishing and fish stocks that are in an overfishe d condition, and 
subsidies that lead to harmful fishing in unregulated high seas.   
Notwithstanding the Article 12 clause, we must make progress towards the entry into force of the 
agreement and the completion of the remaining areas as agreed at the 12th Mi nisterial Conference.  
 
We call for LDCs to be included in the special fisheries fund. We would appreciate further information 
on the next steps in this regard.   
 
Lastly, we look forward to moving forward on a work programme and hope to see a convergence of 
views on the important issues for all of us in a rules -based multilateral organization, including 
responsiveness to the needs of LDCs.    
 
We ask that this statement be recorded in the minutes of the next official meeting of the General 
Counc il. Thank you.  WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  41. Costa Rica  
Costa Rica welcomes the outcomes of MC12 and is grateful for your leadership and your tireless 
work. We also thank the Chair and the Facilitators. The achievements are significant,  and the WTO 
has shown that it is an organisation that is capable of achieving results. It avoided non relevance of 
the organisation. In addition to the results in terms of fighting against the pandemic and food safety 
and work on the fisheries subsidies I thank Santiago for his commitment and dedication and success 
and the results on e -commerce and the WTO reform.  
 
It is also important to acknowledge that we avoided backtracking on certain topics and that in itself 
is very important for the future of the WTO and of the multilateral trading system. We now  need to 
look at implementing the results and continue to work on the remaining topics. We need to remain 
pragmatic and flexible. This is what enabled us to reach these achievements in MC12 and this will 
help us in the future .  
 
In agriculture , we welcome the way in which we are approaching the matter and we think that it is 
important to look at how we are going to deal with agriculture and agriculture negotiations in the 
near future. This is something that has been pending for many years and we believe tha t it is vital 
that we conclude negotiations in agriculture. The lack of agreements has led us to the figures that 
you mentioned and domestic support with the negative impact on sustainability of resources and 
causing trade distortions.  
 
Our country is com mitted to the multilateral trading system,  and you can count on our support and 
on our proactive work to carry out the remaining tasks and also reaching the new goals that we set 
ourselves at the ministerial meeting. I would like to seize this opportunity to welcome our colleague 
from Chile and wish her much success in her responsibilities.   
42. Plurinational State of Bolivia  
I am speaking on behalf of my Ambassador , who had to attend a meeting o f the Human Rights  
Council . We would like to thank you and the Cha ir of the General Council for calling this meeting 
which is a first opportunity for us to go over the results of this 12th Ministerial Conference. We thank 
the efforts that you made, Mme Director -General, as well as those working on the thematic sessions 
and the Secretariat for the work carried out. The achievements at this meeting were positive and 
they enabled us to strike a very delicate balance. We are concerned however about what remains to 
be done and the need for decisions to be taken in an inclusive  and transparent way that meets the 
expectations of all Members of this Organisation. We understand that we cannot adopt a similar 
practice in the future to the one that was adopted during the Ministerial and we hope that the 
documents will be sent through  in due time for their analysis to be carried out. We believe that we 
need to fulfil the mandate that we have been given. Some of the priority topics according to us are 
the following.  
 
On the response to the pandemic and TRIPS , we need to continue discus sions to allow for a more 
equitable approach. In addition,  we are aware of the fact that there are still remaining topics to be 
dealt with and further negotiations to be had.  
 
Regarding the reform of the WTO,  we need to resume a revision as quickly as pos sible. In addition,  
we need to continue to work on the dispute settlement system so that it is more accessible to 
developing countries. We need to continue to work on agriculture and fisheries subsidies and we can 
start constructive discussions on the mora torium on e -commerce in addition to discussions on TRIPS 
to find a solution that will be satisfactory to all Members.  
 
We also need to decide on the date for the next Ministerial Conference so that we can prepare 
adequately. We would need that to carry ou t the work necessary and reflections. We need to defend 
the multilateral trading system that is rules -based. We reiterate our availability to work in a 
constructive way to achieve our objectives.   
43. United Kingdom  
Thank you, I will try to be brief. I 'd like to start by thanking you DG, the GC Chair, the former GC 
Chair, Chairs of every negotiation, the DDGs and the Ambassador of Kazakhstan. Your tireless efforts 
were central to delivering at MC12 and we cannot thank you enough for your leadership and s heer WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  hard work. MC12 really was hard work, long nights, tough discussions and all done in such a 
challenging climate. We wanted to congratulate everyone involved. As the US said, its all of us here, 
our Minsters and our teams that made this impressive set of outcomes possible. We surpassed 
expectations and we have changed the narrative on the WTO. We have shown that we can and do 
deliver.  
 
As always and as many have said, there is still work to be done. We welcome the secretariat 's focus 
on implementation which is a key agenda and should be our first priority for follow up for MC12. 
Particularly, each member needs to focus on the domestic ratification of the Fisheries agreement so 
it can enter into force. And while we want to move quickly, we do think there  is value in taking a 
short period of reflection. We need to acknowledge the unprecedented outcomes from MC12 but also 
take time to learn the lessons. You DG highlighted some of the lessons, and don 't worry, I 'm not 
going to correct your very accurate defi nition of transparency. We need to bring the whole 
membership with us, at these critical next steps and its reassuring to hear your plans on how to do 
that, so everyone, at this really critical moment has a chance to input and understand how we move 
forwar d together.  
 
We wanted to particularly highlight, that given the challenges of some of our discussions, which are 
complex and sensitive issues that we are considering, it would be helpful to really start to do our 
homework now. We need to reflect on our positions, to g ather evidence, so we can have evidence -
based discussions and to look for new approaches to help us to deliver. We agree with what many 
have said here today, we  need to move on from old discussions and focus on what matters to the 
global trading system and  the challenges it's really facing today. We must de -dramatize  Ministerials, 
we cannot expect different outcomes if we keep pushing everything to Ministers and putting such 
pressure on these moments. We fully agree with Australia, with Singapore, with the United States, 
who set this out really clearly, we must think differently and act differently.  
 
And finally, while the politics in the UK is slightly distracting, at the moment, I just wanted to say 
that our government remains the same and the UK stands re ady to fully engage and looks forward 
to MC13. We are finally now, in the post -MC12 world. Before I give up the floor, I just would like to 
take this opportunity to welcome the new Ambassador to Chile, we wish her every success in settling 
in to life in Ge neva, and look forward to working closely together. Thank you.  
44. Kazakhstan  
I would like to start by saying that this MC12 Ministerial conference was the third ministerial 
conference after Nairobi and Buenos Aires where my country , Kazakhstan , has participat ed as a fully 
pledged member of the WTO. In this regard , as a newcomer , Chairmanship and the role of co -host 
of this Ministerial - it was of course a great honour to say the least for us as well as a huge 
responsibility in itself. But it was also a challen ging experience due to the COVID -19 related several 
postponements of the Ministerial Conference. Looking back the only thing which we regret about is 
that we could not host it in Kazakhstan as we had planned initially and since as I have mentioned it 
is our third ministerial conference we really hope and look forward to welcoming you in the future in 
Kazakhstan , not only  for Ministerial Conference s but for any retreats or gatherings. When the MC 
Chair arrived in Geneva , I was briefing him and mentioning tha t if we achieve an outcome on one 
or two thematic areas , including the Ministerial outcome document , the smooth running of the 
Conference would be a big achievement for us, for Kazakhstan and for its Chairmanship of the 
Ministerial Conference. But this out come, unprecedented, of 10 decisions was not something was 
expected even until 2 a .m. of the last night when we were making this package deal we were not 
sure that we will make it through so I think this was a demonstration of the collective efforts and 
collective political will and demonstration of maximum flexibility on the part of the Members in order 
to reach the meaningful outcomes and maximum of what was possible and demonstrate that WTO 
is still relevant and could handle all these pressing challenges  of the global trade. This would not be 
possible , DG,  without your strong leadership, dedication and outreach to various Governments, 
Ministers, Heads of Governments in preparation for MC12 as well as during MC12. I would like to 
thank you, for your leader ship and I believe that you have delivered what you promised during your 
campaign for this post.  
 
I also would like to use this opportunity to thank DDGs for their substantive involvement in thematic 
areas where outcomes have been ensured as a result of M C12. I would also like to thank the General 
Council Chair, Didier, for your strong leadership as well as for ensuring that there is an outcome 
document with the elements which we very much wanted to see in this document, particularly on WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  WTO reforms. I would also like to thank my colleagues, Santiago for your role and with  MC Chair 
you have made sure that until the 5 a .m. that there is a document on fisheries and there is an 
outcome on fisheries. I would like to thank Gloria for her role as well as Dacio for his role in WTO's 
response to COVID.  
 
And as a Services Chair,  I would like to thank all the Members for the flexibility which you have 
demonstrated. I know that for some of you it is not an ambitious paragraph which we have in the 
outcome document,  but I have been told that this is the first time in more than 10 years the role of 
services in the global trade has been mentioned in the consensus -based multilateral outcome 
document of the Ministerial Conference. I really hope that we can build on this momentum and use 
the WTO as a forum for increasing the role of services,  particularly the participation of developing 
countries in services discussions and use the services as a strong response to the economic recovery 
as well as to economic development of Member countries.  
 
As Chair of the Ministerial Conference,  I would lik e to mention the magic of footnotes in the 
Ministerial Decisions which we have experienced. I think that the footnotes have made sure that we 
do have in the outcome document the reform paragraph, and we also have the paragraph o n 
women's economic empowerme nt as well as on MSMEs, because the footnotes have played its magic 
and made sure that the concerns were addressed and we do have all these three major elements of 
the Ministerial outcome document.   
 
Regarding the concerns expressed and recommendations mad e on communication gap. As Chair , 
we take very well note of all these concerns and I believe that this is one of the major lessons 
learned from MC12, but during the 3 sleepless nights it was very difficult to, not using this as an 
excuse, but those who exp erienced all those negotiations it was difficult to take care of every aspect 
but we take well note of this and I believe that this also emphasises the role and we need to enhance 
this role of Regional Coordinators of Coordinators of various regional and o ther groups in ensuring 
two-way communication – first, representing the interests of the group members and secondly 
ensuring that members are well informed on what is going on in the negotiating rooms , green room 
and room D formats. So therefore,  I think t hat this is something on which we will work together,  
and we stand ready to work together and reflect further in order to make sure that all Members ' 
interests are reflected and they are well informed and they own the decisions which the Ministers 
have mad e at this Ministerial Conference.  
With this, I would like to thank all the Members for your participation and strong involvement and 
support to Kazakhstan as Chair of this Ministerial Conference. We  stand ready for further constructive 
engagement on imple mentation of MC12 decisions.  
45. Egypt  
Thank you, Mr. Chairman , I deliver this statement on behalf of H.E. Ambassador Dr. Gamaledin who 
regrets not be able to participate due to other pressing obligations.  
 
Congratulations!  
 
To you, Mr. Chairman, to Madame Di rector General. Deputy Director Generals, the WTO Secretariat, 
and above all to the entire membership on the success of MC12. It testifies that there is life at the 
WTO at the heart of the multilateral trading system, and represents multilateralism. I take  this 
opportunity to express appreciation and a victory for gratitude to the MC12 Chair, Vice Chairs and 
the governments of Kazakhstan and Switzerland, as well as Minister Facilitators for their contribution 
to this success.  
 
We also want to thank the secr etariat and the council team for the great effort they put into the 
processes.  
 
Despite all obstacles and difficulties faced in negotiations, our collective patience, perseverance and 
wisdom supported by the constructive engagement in good faith led to thi s unexpected outcome 
upon which we shall be able to deliver and address the challenges ahead of us.   
 
Chair,  the success of MC12 down the line will depend on the results achieved from the 
implementation of its outcome. In this regard, my delegation believe s that we need to build on the 
momentum set at MC12, by setting a specific timetable and modalities for implementing the 
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  pending issues, including the unfini shed business with the fisheries subsidies agreement, the work 
program for food security in NFIDCs and LDCs.  
 
Definitely, WTO reform and agriculture negations and development related issues should be 
prioritized.  
 
That said, we stress the need to swiftly launch a dedicated work program for the effective 
implementation and monitoring of the Marrakesh Decision on Measures Concerning the Possible 
Negative Effects of Reform Programme on LDCs and NFIDCs, in order to urgently address the needs 
of these c ountries and increase their resilience to food insecurity, including by providing them with 
the needed flexibilities to bolster their agricultural production and enhance their domestic food 
security in emergencies. The dedicated work program shall be based  on lessons learned and on 
proposals submitted by members. We need to conclude the matter before end of 2022.  
 
Chair,  likewise, concerning paragraph 8 of the ministerial decision on trips agreement there is a 
global recognition that controlling COVID -19 requires a comprehensive approach beyond vaccines. 
There is no dispute that therapeutics and diagnostics are central to effectively handling  COVID -19 
and to socio -economic recovery. Our work on this file should be focused and streamlined in order 
for us to  reach an agreement by December 2022 on the extension of this decision to cover 
therapeutics and diagnostics.  
  
On the WTO response to the pandemic and preparedness for future pandemics, we urge members 
to develop ideas on the sort of outcome we wish to ha ve by MC13, and consequently table proposals 
in the relevant WTO bodies, based on the terms of reference and in line with the time frames 
specified in paragraphs 23 and 24 of this decision.   
 
In this regard, we underscore the importance of taking urgent st eps to start the negotiations before 
the summer break.  
 
Chair,  as always, Egypt stands ready to constructively engage in all issues in order to reach 
consensual and meaningful outcomes, and we look forward to continue collectively to score 
successes en ro ute to MC13 under the able leadership of our dear DG.  
 
Finally, my delegation associates itself with the statement delivered by Cameroon on behalf of the 
African Group (and the statement delivered by Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Arab Group).  I thank 
you. 
46. Uganda  
First, allow me to begin by thanking you for warmly receiving me earlier today and thank you for 
your tireless efforts and contribution towards a successful MC12. I would also like to express our 
appreciation to the Chairman of the General Council, the Chairman of the Conference, the Vice 
Chairs, the Minister Facilitators, the Swiss Government for making the conference possible. My 
delegation aligns itself to the statement delivered by the African Group and the ACP Group. Almost 
3 years into COVID -19 pandemic , it remains a priority for my country and other developing and least 
developed countries that have borne the brunt of two -track pandemic to build on the momentum of 
MC12 and advance negotiations on paragraph 8 of the Ministerial Decision on the T RIPS Agreement 
regarding the extension of the IP waiver to cover the production and supply of COVID -19 diagnostics 
and therapeutics. This will go a long way in ensuring the legacy of a two -track response to the 
pandemic and indifference to the concerns of developing countries and least -developed countries 
are not normalised and carried forward.  
 
The unfolding global economic and food crisis also means that agriculture negotiations need to be 
prioritised with the objectives of delivering tangible outcomes f or MC13. My delegation would also 
like to emphasise the need to prioritise reforms of the WTO in a process that , first of all , seeks a 
common understanding of what a fit -for-purpose WTO would look like and what it would take to 
effectively tackle the insti tutional challenges that the WTO is facing , including the imbalances in the 
rules that have impacted Members , particularly developing countries and least -developed countries 
from effectively shaping rules or influencing decision -making in the WTO. We also call for the urgent 
reconstitution of the appellate body and the establishment of rules of procedure to overcome its 
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  of meetings in order to avoid overlaps and prepare factual  summary reports in a timely manner 
which would go a long way in facilitating more equitable participation by all delegations.   
47. Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela  
Director -General, we acknowledge and appreciate your leadership, along with that of the Deputy 
Directors -General, the Chair of the Conference, the Chair of the General Council, the Chairs of the 
negotiating bodies, the facilitators, the Swiss authorities and the Secretariat during the Twelfth WTO 
Ministerial Conference.    
 
We agre e that the outcomes of MC12 give renewed impetus to the Organization. This was possible 
thanks to both the leadership of the key players and the vote of confidence from all 164 Members 
of this Organization, which was given at the last minute in the most co nstructive of spirits and 
despite profound uncertainties and the fact that many were excluded during the process.  
 
Turning to this meeting, our first major reflection is one that greatly concerns us and pertains to the 
excessive use of so -called "green ro oms" during MC12, which demonstrates that the process did not 
adhere to the principles of transparency and inclusion in negotiations and decision -making.  
 
It is even more concerning that, despite the acknowledgement that seems to be emerging of how 
detrime ntal this approach is for guaranteeing the required transparency and inclusiveness, just two 
days prior to today's meeting, another "green room" was convened as a prelude to address 
essentially the exact same reflections on MC12 as those who were excluded have the opportunity to 
do today in this plenary. However, we are only able to do so very briefly, since time is of the essence.  
 
What took place at MC12 cannot happen again. Members did not have sufficient time to examine all 
the negotiating texts. Two cr itical negotiating texts were not circulated to Members prior to being 
submitted for adoption (Decision on TRIPS and the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies). Rule 23 of 
the Ministerial Conference regulations provides that proposals and amendments to proposal s shall 
normally be introduced in writing and circulated to all representatives not later than twelve hours 
before the commencement of the meeting at which they are to be discussed.  
 
Thematic sessions were turned into plenary sessions in order to keep the majority of delegates 
occupied while the documents were being negotiated in the green rooms.  
 
The informal sessions of Heads of State and Government were used arbitrarily for "transparency" 
purposes, but they did not provide any substantial information on the progress being made in the 
green rooms.  
 
In sum, we witnessed a rushed and exclusive process with some significant negotiating outcomes 
but with little ambition. It is now time to rectify processes to rebuild the necessary trust among us  
all. We have faith in your leadership. We are here and we are committed.  
 
Lastly, we welcome the new Permanent Representatives of Chile and Uganda. Thank you.  
48. Panama  
Thank you very much , Director -General , and thank you also to the Chairperson of the Gener al 
Council as well. As I am the last speaker today,  I will be as brief as I can. First of all, I would like to 
welcome our new colleague from Chile and also our colleague from Uganda. I am sure we will have 
other new colleagues arriving from other countrie s over the next few days and it's always a real 
pleasure to work with new colleagues, so welcome.  
 
On the results , we agree with many  of those who have spoken today that the results were not exactly 
what we wanted . However , they were significant,  and they do have a role to play that is very 
important in the life of the WTO. As the Rolling Stones said , perhaps we didn't always get what we 
want, but perhaps sometimes and that time we got what we needed and we needed quite urgently, 
so I would like to congratulate all those who were involved, those who facilitated meetings, presided 
over meetings and I would also like to congratulate those who showed flexibility so that we could 
achieve results. Today , we have heard a lot about the process . I would not have anything particular 
to add but a few comments. We always have lessons to learn, lessons to take on and above all 
lessons to implement. So, I would like to focus on the future, the  work to be done. The results we WT/GC/M/ 200 
 
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  achieved have provided us  with a number of mandates, tasks to be carried out and there is a lot to 
do.  
 
First and foremost,  I would like to thank the Secretariat and your office , Mme Director -General , for 
the list that has been prepared, the topics that need to be implemented fol lowing up from MC12. We 
are looking into that document in detail,  and we will be focussing on the whole range of issues before 
us, not only those that are particularly "sexy" as far as we are concerned. It would, of course, be a 
good idea for us to make pr ogress on fisheries, agriculture, the TRIPS waiver, but of course this is 
something which for us is important and we do not have very much time on that, so we need to be 
very quick .  
 
On fisheries , we need to finish our work under the SDGs as well – Article 5, for example – there is 
a lot to do before we can feel satisfied that we have actually dealt with everything that needs to be 
dealt with , based on the mandate given to us by our Heads of State and Government. So, it would 
be a good idea for us to look at the Spanish and French documents as well to ensure that they are 
consistent with the language that was used for negotiations ( English ). It doesn't mean we need to 
reopen documents or renegotiate, we do however need to make sure that there is consistency  in all 
three official languages as they are all equally official.  
 
On agriculture, we are very grateful for that idea of a retreat of carrying out a brainstorming exercise 
to think about how we can make progress on these negotiations. I would like to sug gest that we 
should also carry out brainstorming on other issues not just agriculture. In the statement made by 
my Minister under the informal session on the first day of the Conference, this was a statement on 
the state of the multilateral trading system,  the Minister made a number of concrete proposals with 
regard to how we can return to real negotiations and not just have people presenting their positions 
all the time. I have spoken to colleagues about this particularly , our colleague Gloria Abraham now 
of course Chairperson. I hope we can contribute constructively to the processes that will be taking 
place and the work on the outstanding issues throughout the consultation process . To the 
Chairperson of the General Council,  you suggested that the Chairs o f the standard bodies and the 
subsidiary bodies could be involved and we could develop work plans. I would like to suggest that 
this could be suggested to Chairs of the groups of the special session. That would be particularly 
important for some issues suc h as reform.  
 
Under reform , there are a number of issues , such as settlement of disputes, this is something that 
will have to be dealt with at a Special Session and I think it is a good idea not to try and reinvent 
the wheel or create new bodies for discu ssions or negotiations or consultations where forums already 
exist. For us , small delegations , that would be a very important point. And that is also important in 
the interest of consistency as we carry out discussions. Furthermore,  work plans on that spec ial 
session well perhaps we could revive work on issues that have been around for a number of years 
or indeed leaving to one side to focus on other issues.   
 
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ANNEX 2  
JOINT DECLARATION BY ARGENTINA, BRAZIL, COLOMBIA, COSTA RICA, GUATEMALA, 
PERU AND URUGUAY ON SUSTAINABLE FISHING FOR AN AMBITIOUS PROTECTION OF 
THE OCEAN  
 
At the request of the delegation of Colombia, the Joint Declaration below is annexed to the Minutes 
of this General Council meeting.  
 
 
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Joint Declaration on  
Sustainable Fishing for an Ambitious Protection of the Ocean  
 
The Governments of Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Peru, Uruguay, and my own country , 
Colombia,  
 
RECOGNIZING that the ocean plays a vital role  in the fight against climate change, harbo urs a great 
part of the planet 's biodiversity, and its resources contribute to sustainable development, poverty 
eradication and food security.  
 
RECOGNIZING the urgent need to act in immediate and effective ways t o restore the oceans, 
particularly regarding the conservation and sustainable use of its living resources.  
 
RECALLING the importance of the Sustainable Development Goal 14 "Conserve and sustainably use 
the oceans, seas and marine resources " and in particu lar of target 14.6 that mandated to conclude 
a negotiation at the WTO to prohibit certain forms of fisheries subsidies which contribute to 
overcapacity and overfishing, eliminate subsidies that contribute to illegal, unreported and 
unregulated fishing and refrain from introducing new such subsidies, recognizing appropriate and 
effective special and differential treatment for developing and least developed countries.  
 
AWARE of the adverse impacts of certain forms of fisheries subsidies that contribute to ov ercapacity 
and overfishing, and that IUU fishing remains a threat to a sustainable development and to the 
marine biodiversity, especially for developing countries  
 
WELCOMING the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, adopted in Geneva on the 17th of June 2022 at 
the Word Trade Organization (WTO), which prohibits subsidies to those engaged in IUU fishing, for 
fishing overfished stocks, and for fishing on the unregulated high seas.  
 
NOTING the mandate given by the WTO Ministerial Conference, to continue negotiat ions for 
additional provisions that would achieve a comprehensive agreement on fisheries subsidies, 
including through further disciplines on certain forms of fisheries subsidies that contribute to 
overcapacity and overfishing.  
 
Decide to:  
 
1. Continue their efforts to deepen the dialogue in the pursue of sustainable fisheries.  
 
2. Commit to promptly ratify, in a manner that is consistent with their applicable national laws and 
regulations, the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, with a view o f an expedite entry into force of the 
agreement.  
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  3. Cooperate for the effective implementation of the provisions under the WTO Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies, including in areas where implementation can be pursued before the entry into 
force of the agr eement.  
 
4. Fully engage in further negotiations, within the WTO, with a view to agree additional provisions 
to achieve a comprehensive agreement on fisheries subsidies, including through further disciplines 
on certain forms of fisheries subsidies that co ntribute to overcapacity and overfishing, recognizing 
that appropriate and effective special and differential treatment for developing country Members and 
least developed country Members should be an integral part of these further negotiations.  
 
Lisbon, P ortugal, 29 June 2022 . 
 
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