WT/MIN(17)/ST/98  
 
4 January 2018  
(18-0062) Page: 1/1 
Ministerial Conference  
Eleventh Session  
Buenos Aires, 10 -13 December 2017  Original: English  
 
STATEMENT BY H.E. MR. MOHAMMAD PE RVAIZ MALIK  
MINISTER FOR COMMERC E AND TEXTILE INDUST RY  
PAKISTAN  
Global trade stands today at a crossroads. The World Economy is still sensing tremors of the 
decade old financial crisis. A negative sentiment has crept into the discussions of those that were 
once its strongest advocates. These trends are particularly dam aging for developing countries that 
see opportunities for growth through access to global markets.   
 
Almost two and half decades ago, when we built this organisation, two concepts were enshrined in 
the founding document – multilateralism and development. It is these two issues that also define 
the future of global trade and the WTO. Pakistan remains committed to these ideals. In our view, 
any decisions that isolate some members, or do not cater for the concerns and needs of 
developing countries, will be da maging and retrogressive. As we decide which direction to take at 
this juncture, we must take account of the tremendous amount of work we have done over the last 
two decades, and the lessons we have learnt along the way. We must not give up on the principl es 
of differential treatment for those that are catching up and of the development agenda we 
mandated for ourselves.  
 
The pace and elements of global economic engagement have changed. Today, we talk of the 4th 
industrial revolution, of digital trade and el ectronic flows, of micro and small enterprises, of 
facilitating investment, of sustainable resources and renewable energy. All these elements 
highlight challenges for developing countries – a very large segment of the poorest are still in 
digital darkness,  smaller enterprises seek access to compete with larger ones, many face resource 
deficiencies while trying to catch up.  It is, therefore, imperative that we tackle these issues head -
on and find solutions that are inclusive, pragmatic and creative. This is  only possible through 
empathetic dialogue that is aimed at hearing and resolving the problems of developing countries.  
 
Moreover, Agriculture remains the lifeline for most economies across the globe. Food security and 
sustainability are one of the greates t challenges for the 21st century, and we must find ways to 
ensure that we work towards a common future that benefits our next generations. Here again, I 
would urge you all to follow an approach that is realistic and effective.  
 
Despite the difficulties, this organisation has served its membership well. It is one of the perfect 
examples of  ‘learning by doing’ where developing countries are now much more active and robust 
in their engagement. A commitment to transparency, inclusiveness and effective resolut ion of 
disputes, has given it more legitimacy. We must use our gathering in Buenos Aires to underscore 
the importance and relevance of this multilateral system and strive together to make it stronger.  
 
To conclude , we are at a moment of introspection and o f looking ourselves in the mirror. Let us 
think together how we can best serve the interests of our people through this organisation. To my 
mind, only a recommitment to its fundamental principles and constructive engagement with an 
aim of helping developin g countries can take us truly forward. We must foresee and work for a life 
after MC11 which is better than the life before it.  
 
 
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