WT/MIN(24)/ST/54  
26 February  2024 
(24-1537) Page: 1/2 
Ministerial Conference  
Thirteenth Session  
Abu Dhabi, 26 -29 February 2024  Original: English  
 
 
STATEMENT BY H.E. DR GIANNI AVILA  
PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF BELIZE TO  
THE WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION  
BELIZE 
At the outset, Belize, a Small and Vulnerable Economy and a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) 
within the WTO framework, associates itself with the statements made on behalf of the Caribbean 
Community as well as the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States.  
 
Thirty years ago in Marrakesh, the world came together to sign the Agreement that birthed the WTO. 
This historic pact laid the groundwork for a rules -based multilateral trading system. Its core 
principles of non -discrimination, transparency, and predictability have guided the journey ever since. 
Today, this milestone is celebrated and the commitment to these bedrock principles  is reaffirmed.  
 
Belize recognizes that the collective well -being of the multilateral trading system hinges on an 
understanding that transcends borders, bridges gaps, and empowers nations. The WTO, with its 
rules-based architecture remains very much the fo undational cornerstone and a sine qua non to 
global trade governance. Every effort must be extended to strengthen the institution.  
 
The year 2024 presents various interconnected global challenges, necessitating collaborative efforts 
and strategic solutions . From climate change -induced calamities to crippling inflation and a 
multiplicity of geopolitical conflicts, humanity grapples with multifaceted issues that are not confined 
to only some borders. As these turbulent waters are navigated, the role of the WT O in addressing 
sustainable development, promoting equitable commerce, and fostering resilience becomes ever 
more critical.  
 
Against this backdrop, MC13 assumes paramount significance. It is not merely a routine gathering. 
It is a platform where we must c hart a course for a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable global 
economy. It is the view of Belize that the G -90 proposals aimed at ensuring stability, predictability, 
and transparency in the implementation of existing special and differential provisi ons, will 
undoubtedly contribute to strengthening the participation of developing countries including LDCs in 
the multilateral trading system. We urge that WTO Members seek to advance work on the review of 
Special and Differential Treatment (SDT) with a vi ew to strengthening them and making them more 
precise, effective, and operational for the benefit of those who needs it the most.  
 
Where the future of the multilateral trading system is concerned, the WTO stands as a beacon of 
hope for all of its Members. Its role extends beyond commerce. It is about shaping a world where 
prosperity is shared, where development is equitable, and where resilience is fortified. As 
deliberations over the future work of the WTO continue, there must be recognition that the decis ions 
undertaken will reverberate far beyond the immediate conference halls. They will touch the lives of 
many around the globe.  
 
Having ratified the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, Belize calls on other WTO Members to 
advance their domestic consultatio ns to allow for its entry into force. This Agreement will contribute 
significantly to the safeguarding of our marine ecosystems. Further to this, Belize stands ready to 
support the advancement of texts in the second wave of negotiations that are envisioned  to: provide 
the policy space for small fishing states like Belize with the flexibility to invest in the marine sector 
and effectively discipline harmful subsidies to large -scale industrial fishing that has placed immense 
pressure on global fish stocks.  WT/MIN(24)/ST/54  
 
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  Belize joins the call for the incorporation of the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement 
into Annex 4 of the Marrakesh Agreement. The goal of the Agreement in enhancing investment 
facilitation, promoting sustainable development, and strengthening  the link between trade and 
investment is aligned with various national development policies of Belize.  
 
Lastly, the WTO must make the integration of environmental and climate change considerations 
central to its deliberative function in all WTO bodies ov er the next Ministerial Conference cycle. 
Belize, like most SIDs, are among the most vulnerable to climate change. Rising sea levels threaten 
our very existence, while extreme weather events such as cyclones and drought cripple our 
economies and infrastruc ture. Mainstreaming environment and climate change within the WTO is 
not a mere policy exercise, it is a lifeline for SIDS. By championing their voices, fostering resilience, 
and promoting sustainable trade, we pave the way for a more equitable and climate -resilient global 
economy.  
 
In closing, let us recognize that the WTO is more than an institution  – it reflects our collective will 
to promote shared prosperity among our nations. May MC13 illuminate our path toward a fairer, 
more sustainable, and inclusiv e multilateral trading system . 
 
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